bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deeply Cyclable and Ultrahigh‐Rate Lithium Metal Anodes Enabled by Coaxial Nanochamber Heterojunction on Carbon Nanofibers
Authors: Le TrungHieu , Yang Ciqing , Lv Wei , Liang Qinghua , Huang Xiehe , Kang Feiyu , Yang Ying
Published: October 2021

Lithium metal anodes (LMAs) are the most promising candidates for high‐energy‐density batteries due to the high theoretical specific capacity and lowest potential. However, the practical application of LMAs is hampered by the short lifespan and unsatisfactory lithium utilization (<50%). An oxide–oxide heterojunction enhanced with nanochamber structure design is proposed to improve lithium utilization and cycling performance of LMA under ultrahigh rates. Typically, a MnO2–ZnO heterojunction provides high binding energy for strong absorption of Li‐ions and intimately bonded interfaces for fast transfer of electrons. Under the guidance of the smooth Li‐ion migration and rapid electron flow, the Li metal can be restricted as thin layers within submicro scale in nanochambers with constrain boundary and stress dissipation, inhibiting the local agglomeration and blocking. Thus, the lithiophilic active sites can be effectively exposed to the Li‐ions within submicro scale, improving the reversible conversion for high lithium utilization during long‐term cycling. As such, the Li@MnZnO/CNF electrode achieves a high lithium utilization of 70% at a record‐high current density of 50 mA cm−2 with areal capacity of 10 mAh cm−2. This work offers an avenue to improve lithium utilization for long‐lifespan LMAs working under high current densities and capacities.
Advances and Frontiers in Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Electronics
Authors: Zou Jianping , Zhang Qing
Published: October 2021

Single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have been considered as one of the most promising electronic materials for the next‐generation electronics in the more Moore era. Sub‐10 nm SWCNT‐field effect transistors (FETs) have been realized with several performances exceeding those of Si‐based FETs at the same feature size. Several industrial initiatives have attempted to implement SWCNT electronics in integrated circuit (IC) chips. Here, the recent advances in SWCNT electronics are reviewed from in‐depth understanding of the fundamental electronic structures, the carrier transport mechanisms, and the metal/SWCNT contact properties. In particular, the subthreshold switching properties are highlighted for low‐power, energy‐efficient device operations. State‐of‐the‐art low‐power SWCNT‐based electronics and the key strategies to realize low‐voltage and low‐power operations are outlined. Finally, the essential challenges and prospects from the material preparation, device fabrication, and large‐scale ICs integration for future SWCNT‐based electronics are foregrounded.
Optimization of idarubicin and cytarabine induction regimen with homoharringtonine for newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia patients based on the peripheral blast clearance rate: A single‐arm, phase 2 trial (RJ‐AML 2014)
Authors: Zhang Yunxiang , Li Xiaoyang , Weng Xiangqin , Shen Yang , Chen Yu , Zheng Yu , Zhao Huijin , You Jianhua , Mao Yuanfei , Wang Lining , Wu Min , Sheng Yan , Wu Jing , Hu Jiong , Chen Qiusheng , Li Junmin
Published: October 2021

Individualized chemotherapy, which is at the forefront of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment, has moderately improved outcomes over the past decade. Monitoring the peripheral blood blast burden during induction by flow cytometry has shown significant value in the evaluation of treatment responses. Our previous study reported the day 5 peripheral blast clearance rate (D5‐PBCR) as an indicator of early treatment response, and D5‐PBCR (+) patients showed poor outcomes. We performed the present phase 2 trial of early intervention in D5‐PBCR (+) patients with homoharringtonine (HHT) introduced in the traditional induction regimen with anthracycline and cytarabine. The primary endpoint was complete remission (CR). This study enrolled 151 patients, 65 patients were D5‐PBCR (+) and 55 patients completed induction with HHT addition. The overall CR rate after one course of induction was 84.4%, with 87.5% and 80.0% for the D5‐PBCR (−) and D5‐PBCR (+) groups, respectively. The incidence of grade 3/4 adverse events was comparable between the two groups. At the median follow‐up of 53.1 months, median overall survival (OS) was not reached in the entire cohort, and median event‐free survival (EFS) was 42.2 months. Neither the OS nor EFS showed significant differences between the D5‐PBCR (−) and D5‐PBCR (+) groups. Compared to historical data, significant improvements in both OS (p = .020) and EFS (p = .020) were observed in the D5‐PBCR (+) group. In conclusion, optimization of induction chemotherapy with idarubicin and cytarabine according to D5‐PBCR is feasible in patients with newly diagnosed AML. The addition of HHT demonstrated a good efficacy and safety profile.
Systematic assessment of quaternary ammonium compounds for the potential to elicit developmental and reproductive effects
Authors: DeSesso John M. , Harris Stephen B. , Scialli Anthony R. , Williams Amy Lavin
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Quaternary ammonium compounds (QUATs) are commonly found in cleaning products, disinfectants, hand sanitizers, and personal care products. They have been used for >50 years and are considered safe when used according to directions. Recent papers report reduced fertility and neural tube defects in rodents after low‐level exposures. To determine if QUATs interfere with mammalian reproduction and development, we conducted a methodical assessment of all available data.

Methods

A systematic literature search identified 789 potential articles. Review of titles and abstracts found eight relevant studies, including two dissertation chapters; to these, 10 unpublished, guideline‐compliant developmental and reproductive toxicity (DART) studies of QUATs (alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride [ADBAC] and dialkyldimethylammonium chloride [DDAC]) were added. ToxRTool was utilized to evaluate all 18 studies for data quality.

Results

Six studies were scored as “reliable without restriction”; four studies were considered “reliable with restriction” (mainly due to small rabbit group sizes). No test article‐related, adverse DART endpoints were reported in these studies. ToxRTool scored the remaining eight studies as “not reliable.” The unreliable studies failed to fully describe methods and/or endpoints, did not quantify (and in some cases, did not verify) exposures, utilized non‐standard test methods, reported endpoints incorrectly, and assessed endpoints at inappropriate times.

Some (not all) unreliable studies reported adverse effects after 7.5 mg QUATs/kg/day (mice), but these results were inconsistent. The reliable studies tested exposures ≥100 mg/kg/day (rats) with no effects.

Conclusions

The available weight of evidence indicates no adverse DART effects after QUATs exposures at anticipated concentrations and normal use.
Impact ofCOVID‐19 on consumers' impulse buying behavior of fitness products: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Chiu Weisheng , (Grace) Oh Ga‐Eun , Cho Heetae
Published: October 2021

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, consumers are found to be more impulsive to purchase fitness products online. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to investigate a moderated mediation model of consumers' perception of COVID‐19 and impulse buying behavior through fear moderated by income. A total of 608 responses were collected from consumers in the United States, and this study employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) to examine the hypothesized relationships in the research model. The results showed that the perception of COVID‐19 had a positive influence on fear, which in turn led to impulse buying behavior of fitness products. Moreover, consumers' income levels negatively moderated the positive relationship between fear and impulse buying behavior. The findings contribute to a better understanding of consumers' behavior and offer practical implications that enable marketers and retailers to predict consumers' behavior during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Shortening of Palmaz Genesis XD stents by longitudinal compression in pediatric patients with pulmonary vein stenosis: Bench‐testing and case series
Authors: Webb Melissa K. , Justino Henri
Published: October 2021

The Palmaz Genesis XD stents (Cordis®, Cardinal Health, Dublin, OH) are an ideal option for stenting vessels in pediatric patients due to their ability to be re‐dilated to large diameters to accompany children's somatic growth. Unfortunately, their length limits their utility for pulmonary vein stenting in small children, due to the risk of protrusion into the left atrium or into distal pulmonary vein branches. We describe a stent shortening technique by longitudinally compressing them prior to deployment, which may enhance their applicability in pediatric pulmonary vein stenosis.
Trait associations and genetic variability in field pea (Pisum sativum L.): Implications in variety development process
Authors: Daba Sintayehu D. , McGee Rebecca J. , Morris Craig F.
Published: October 2021

Background and objectives

Research and breeding for pea protein extraction are likely to play an important role as the demand for pea protein increases. Developing pea cultivars with high protein concentration could be a top breeding priority. Identification of the traits to select for and understanding the relationships between them will optimize the breeding process. Protein was extracted from 26 green and 30 yellow pea genotypes grown in four and two environments, respectively.

Findings

During dehulling/decortication, approximately 15.6% of the pea seed was removed as seed coat, with a low of 10.1% and a high of 20.4%. The protein concentration of split pea flour varied between 18.9% and 29.3%. Split pea had 1.4 percentage point higher protein than the whole pea. Flour protein concentration varied among environments, with Fairfield, WA having the highest mean values. Protein isolate yield ranged from 14.8% to 21.1%, with a mean of 17.8%. Protein recovery from split pea flour ranged from 57.4% to 76.3% across all pea types, with a mean of 65.7%. On average, about 61.6% of the initial sample ended up in the starch‐rich byproduct fraction. The remaining 20.6% the initial samples lost as soluble material during the extraction process. Correlation analysis indicated that flour protein concentration was positively correlated with protein isolate yield and purity but negatively with yield of the starch‐rich byproduct.

Conclusions

Increasing protein concentration leads to increased protein yield and reduced the loss as byproduct during the extraction process. Further studies are required to understand the relationships of protein isolate yield and purity with functional properties of protein.

Significance and novelty

The associations among traits imply that the flour protein concentration could be used in the selection process. Increasing protein concentration could be one key input in proving pea cultivars for protein isolation.
Exploring Pseudoainhum in Camisa syndrome
Authors: Baaniya Bibisha , Agrawal Sudha
Published: October 2021

Immediate treatment of Camisa syndrome with systemic retinoids or surgery helps to prevent loss of digits. Here, we report a case of Camisa syndrome with pseudoainhum in the fifth toe leading to amputation as timely treatment was not sought.
Minimal change nephrotic syndrome four days after the administration of Pfizer‐BioNTech COVID‐19 vaccine—a new side effect or coincidence?
Authors: Abdulgayoom Mohammed , Albuni Mhd Kutaiba , Abdelmahmuod Elabbass , Murshed Khaled , Eldeeb Yassir
Published: October 2021

The association between the COVID vaccine and MCD is temporal and by exclusion, and it is not fully established, but it should be considered in postvvaccine MCD.
Relation Between Coordination and Lewis‐Acid Property of MOF‐Derived Mononuclear Zn(II) Catalyst Toward Epoxide Hydroxylation
Authors: Xiao Juan‐Ding , Lu Sheng‐Mei , Jia Guo‐Qing , Wang Qing‐Nan , Li Can
Published: October 2021

Lewis‐acid properties of the coordinatively unsaturated metal ions are highly relevant to the coordination environment; however, it remains a challenge to establish the coordination structure‐activity relationship, especially in heterogeneous catalysis. Here, a typical metal‐organic framework, ZIF‐8, is selected as the precursor to prepare Lewis‐acid based Zn−N/P−C mononuclear catalysts, with well‐designed external structures but difference in the local coordination. The obtained mononuclear Zn(II) catalysts can not only inherit the advantages of MOF in coordination, but also simulate the homogeneous environment during the catalysis owing to the monodispersed metal sites in ZIF‐8. Eventually, relation between coordination and Lewis‐acid property toward epoxide hydroxylation has been illustrated. Results show the substituted coordination atom of P and the decrease of coordination number strongly enhance the Lewis‐acidity of Zn2+, causing the TOF values changes from 8.7 to 80.1 h−1 based on Zn content. The work affords an understanding and inspiration of coordination environment matters toward Lewis‐acid catalysis in organic transformations.
Recent Progress in Advanced Organic Photovoltaics: Emerging Techniques and Materials
Authors: Sharma Tejasvini , Mahajan Prerna , Adil Afroz Mohammad , Singh Anupriya , Yukta  , Kumar Tailor Naveen , Purohit Smruti , Verma Sonali , Padha Bhavya , Gupta Vinay , Arya Sandeep , Satapathi Soumitra
Published: October 2021

Organic photovoltaics have received active research interest during the past 30 years due to their low cost, flexibility, easy scalability, and robustness. Recently, several efforts have been made to enhance their power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability by considering advanced photon harvesting technology, utilization of novel donor–acceptor materials, and optimizing device design strategy. Specifically, the photon multiplication process like singlet fission (SF) and design of novel materials, including low‐bandgap conjugated polymers and non‐fullerene acceptors (NFA), have led to the development of advanced organic photovoltaics with PCE close to theoretical Shockley–Queisser (SQ) limit. Here, an up‐to‐date overview of the recent progress during the last five years in advanced organic photovoltaics with a special focus on emerging techniques and materials was reported. Further, various designing and deployment strategies for these processes and materials were explored along with their properties, challenges, and achievements. Finally, a strategy for the next‐stage research directions was analyzed and proposed that could drive this field even further beyond laboratory research to reach the final goal of commercialization.
Repetitive short‐pulsed illumination efficiently activates photoactivatable‐Cre as continuous illumination in embryonic stem cells and pre‐implantation embryos of transgenic mouse
Authors: Kishi Kanae , Koyama Hiroshi , Oka Sanae , Kato Azusa , Sato Moritoshi , Fujimori Toshihiko
Published: October 2021

The Cre‐loxP system has been widely used for specific DNA recombination which induces gene inactivation or expression. Recently, photoactivatable‐Cre (PA‐Cre) proteins have been developed as a tool for spatiotemporal control of the enzymatic activity of Cre recombinase. Here, we generated transgenic mice bearing a PA‐Cre gene and systematically investigated the conditions of photoactivation for the PA‐Cre in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) derived from the transgenic mice and in a simple mathematical model. Cre‐mediated DNA recombination was induced in 16% of the PA‐Cre ESCs by 6 hr continuous illumination. We show that repetitive pulsed illumination efficiently induced DNA recombination with low light energy as efficient as continuous illumination in the ESCs (96 ± 15% of continuous illumination when pulse cycle was 2 s), which was also supported by a minimal mathematical model. DNA recombination by the PA‐Cre was also successfully induced in the transgenic mouse pre‐implantation embryos under the developed conditions. These results suggest that strategies based on repetitive pulsed illumination are efficient for the activation of photoactivatable Cre and, possibly other photo‐switchable proteins.
Echocardiographic assessment of radial right ventricular function in heart transplant recipients
Authors: Atzenhoefer Marc , Jahangir Arshad , Payne Abby , Hendawi Mohamed , Dakwar Omar , Ali Mahmoud , Thohan Vinay , Muthukumar Lakshmi
Published: October 2021

Aims

Right ventricular (RV) allograft dysfunction is present in half of all heart transplant (HT) recipients. Non‐invasive assessment of RV function in the setting of rejection is not well described. We outline an echocardiographic technique, short‐axis fractional area change (SAXFAC), to evaluate RV function in the HT population and correlate this with the grade of pathologic rejection.

Methods and results

We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of 110 people who received a HT between 1 January 2015 and 29 February 2020 and had no evidence of rejection. One hundred eighty‐two transthoracic echocardiograms (TTEs) completed up to 1 year from the date of transplantation were analysed for the target acoustic window, the parasternal mid‐ventricular short‐axis view. Sixty‐one TTEs from 23 healthy transplants were deemed appropriate for SAXFAC determination. Thirty‐three organ recipients with at least grade 1R allograft rejection were also identified, and their TTEs screened for SAXFAC analysis. Two expert readers independently calculated SAXFAC as follows: RV end‐diastolic area minus end‐systolic area divided by end‐diastolic area. Using commercially available software (Epsilon, Ann Arbor, Michigan), we quantified RV radial strain, longitudinal strain, and apical fractional area change (FAC). Twenty‐eight transplant recipients with grade 0R or 1R rejection and nine patients with clinically significant rejection completed the study analysis. SAXFAC demonstrated significant variability in the entire population with an inverse relationship to severity of allograft rejection (P ≤ 0.01). Radial strain and FAC were also associated with clinically significant rejection (P ≤ 0.01).

Conclusions

Short‐axis fractional area change is a simple two‐dimensional technique to assess RV function in HT recipients and showed no significant inter‐observer variability. In our small, single‐centre, retrospective case series, lower SAXFAC values were associated with clinically significant allograft rejection. The small sample size and infrequent occurrence of rejection make our observations hypothesis‐generating only. We advocate dedicated RV SAXFAC imaging planes be included when assessing allograft function.
A review of sustainable biodiesel production using biomass derived heterogeneous catalysts
Authors: Maroa Semakula , Inambao Freddie
Published: October 2021

The production of biodiesel through chemical production processes of transesterification reaction depends on suitable catalysts to hasten the chemical reactions. Therefore, the initial selection of catalysts is critical although it is also dependent on the quantity of free fatty acids in a given sample of oil. Earlier forms of biodiesel production processes relied on homogeneous catalysts, which have undesirable effects such as toxicity, high flammability, corrosion, by‐products such as soap and glycerol, and high wastewater. Heterogeneous catalysts overcome most of these problems. Recent developments involve novel approaches using biomass and bio‐waste resource derived heterogeneous catalysts. These catalysts are renewable, non‐toxic, reusable, offer high catalytic activity and stability in both acidic and base conditions, and show high tolerance properties to water. This review work critically reviews biomass‐based heterogeneous catalysts, especially those utilized in sustainable production of biofuel and biodiesel. This review examines the sustainability of these catalysts in literature in terms of small‐scale laboratory and industrial applications in large‐scale biodiesel and biofuel production. Furthermore, this work will critically review natural heterogeneous biomass waste and bio‐waste catalysts in relation to upcoming nanotechnologies. Finally, this work will review the gaps identified in the literature for heterogeneous catalysts derived from biomass and other biocatalysts with a view to identifying future prospects for heterogeneous catalysts.
A review of tin disulfide (SnS2) composite electrode materials for supercapacitors
Authors: Setayeshmehr Mahboobeh , Haghighi Maryam , Mirabbaszadeh Kavoos
Published: October 2021

The rapid growth of the global economy has substantially increased fossil fuel consumption, which brings about two challenges: the destruction of the existing fossil fuel reserves and the emergence of severe environmental problems, such as climate pollution. Therefore, developing clean energy resources and relevant technologies is an urgent priority. In this regard, the enhancement of energy storage technologies and devices gain paramount importance. Two types of energy storage devices are batteries and supercapacitors. Supercapacitors, especially, double layer supercapacitors and pseudo‐capacitors, have attracted more attention than batteries. They possess better characteristics, such as higher‐power density and longer cycle life‌. Various nanocomposite materials, such as carbon (graphene or carbon nanotubes), metal oxides (sulfide), and conductive polymers, are used in the construction of supercapacitor electrodes. Among these materials, tin (IV) sulfide is the most widely utilized material as its layered structure is capable of forming two‐dimensional morphologies. Owing to its abundance in nature, nontoxicity, and cheapness, tin (IV) sulfide is regarded as a promising material for constructing efficient electrodes. The faradic behavior of this material also makes it suitable for supercapacitor applications. The present review article aims to survey and summarize the findings of the studies on tin (IV) sulfide and its utility as an electrode material in supercapacitors. This article also gives an overview of the solutions proposed to improve the performance of this material in supercapacitors.
Optimization of biodegradable paper cup packaging coated with whey protein isolate and rice bran wax as potential popcorn package
Authors: Ganjizadeh Zavareh Sedigheh , Javanmard Dakheli Majid , Tajeddin Behjat
Published: October 2021

Biodegradable paper cups coated with rice bran wax and whey protein isolate were designed to package popcorn. Coatings with different concentrations of whey protein isolate (5.5, 7.75, and 10% w/v) and rice bran wax (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% w/v) were applied on the outer surface of the paper cups. Thickness, color changes, Young's modulus and tensile strength, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of the coated and uncoated cups, and also popcorns properties (pH, texture, and sensory properties) were evaluated. Water vapor transmission rate, Young's modulus, thickness, total color change index, and tensile strength of coated cups with the optimal coating formulation was 19.785 (g/m2 day), 11.810 (MPa), 276.583 (µm), 1.839, and 11.222 (MPa), respectively. The results showed that paper cup coating increased thickness and yellowness and reduced the brightness, Young's modulus, and WVTR. Coating had a positive effect on the pH and texture of popcorns packaged in coated cups than samples packed in uncoated cups (p < .05). With increasing storage time due to moisture absorption, popcorn changes from crisp to viscoelastic and increases tissue firmness (p < .05). Popcorns’ taste in uncoated cups had gained significantly lower scores by panelists compared with the samples packed in coated cups. There was a significant decrease in the general acceptance of popcorn during storage and also the type of coating used in the packaging cup (p < .05). Storage time and type of coating showed no significant effect on the moisture content, odor, and appearance of popcorn. In sensory evaluation, the coated packaging increased the taste, no difference in odor and appearance, and increased the overall acceptance of popcorn compared to the sample in uncoated cups. In general, the results showed that paper cup coating could be a new approach for barrier property improvement in paper‐based food packaging and extending the shelf life of the products.
Clinicopathological features and resistance mechanisms in HIP1‐ALK‐rearranged lung cancer: A multicenter study
Authors: Kang Jin , Deng Qiu‐Mei , Peng Kai‐Cheng , Li Peng , Zhu Bao‐Ting , Wang Pan , Chu Xiang‐Peng , Zhong Wen‐Zhao , Chen Hua‐Jun , Wang Wen‐Xian , Chen Hua‐Fei , Rao Chuang‐Zhou , Xu Chun‐Wei , Yang Jin‐Ji
Published: October 2021

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)‐rearranged non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) respond well to ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), and echinoderm microtubule‐associated protein‐like 4 (EML4)‐ALK‐rearranged NSCLC accounts for the majority of those patients. However, few studies have evaluated ALK‐TKIs treatment for patients with huntingtin‐interacting protein 1 (HIP1)‐ALK fusions. This retrospective study evaluated the clinicopathological characteristics, genomic features, response to ALK‐TKIs, and resistance mechanisms in 11 cases with HIP1‐ALK fusions from five Chinese centers. Patients who received crizotinib at the Chinese centers had an objective response rate of 90% [9/10 cases, 95% confident index (CI): 54.1%–99.5%], median progression‐free survival of 17.9 months (95% CI: 5.8–NA months), and median overall survival of 58.8 months (95% CI: 24.7–NA months). One patient who received first‐line lorlatinib treatment achieved partial response for > 26.5 months. Despite the small sample size, HIP1‐ALK (H21:A20) variant was the most common variant (four of 11 cases, 36.4%) and associated with better outcomes. Among the 11 cases, there were eight patients having available specimens for genetic testing before ALK‐TKIs treatment and four patients undergoing biopsy after ALK‐TKIs failure. The most common coexisting gene was TP53 among 11 patients and two of four patients after crizotinib failure harbored acquired ALK mutations (e.g., L1152V/Q1146K and L1196M). Brigatinib treatment appeared to be effective for a patient who failed crizotinib treatment because of the L1152V/Q1146K mutations, which might be related to increased binding affinity to these mutants. Although HIP1‐ALK‐rearranged NSCLC appears to initially respond well to ALK‐TKIs, crizotinib resistance may be correlated with the AKAP9‐BRAF fusion, ALK compound mutations (L1152V/Q1146K), and the ALK L1196M mutation. Larger studies are needed to evaluate the significance of HIP1‐ALK‐rearranged NSCLC.
Construction of 5H‐Dibenzo[c,e]azepine Framework from Dibenzothiophene Dioxides andN‐Benzylimines through SNAr Reactions
Authors: Furukawa Tomoki , Yanagi Tomoyuki , Kaga Atsushi , Saito Hayate , Yorimitsu Hideki
Published: October 2021

Treatment of a mixture of dibenzothiophene dioxides and benzaldehydeN‐benzylimines with potassium hexamethyldisilazide induces sequential intermolecular and intramolecular SNAr reactions to eventually form the corresponding 5H‐dibenzo[c,e]azepines without any formation of the conceivable five‐membered fluorene derivatives.
Melatonin and melatonin‐agonists for metabolic syndrome components in patients treated with antipsychotics: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Miola Alessandro , Fornaro Michele , Sambataro Fabio , Solmi Marco
Published: October 2021

Objective

Metabolic side effects are a limiting factor in the use of antipsychotics, which remain the cornerstone of long‐term management of patients with severe mental illness. There is contrasting evidence on a possible role of melatonin and melatonin‐agonists in attenuating antipsychotic‐induced metabolic abnormalities.

Design

We conducted a systematic review (PubMed, PsycInfo, Cochrane databases, up to August 2020) and a random‐effect meta‐analysis of double‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled trials (RCTs) involving melatonin and melatonin‐agonists in the treatment of antipsychotic‐induced metabolic changes. The primary outcome was the standardized mean difference (SMD) of composite metabolic outcomes built with metabolic syndrome components. Secondary outcomes were individual metabolic syndrome components, and other anthropometric, glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and psychopathology measures.

Results

Out of the initial 41 studies, six documented five separate RCTs randomizing 248 patients (126 to melatonin/ramelteon, 122 to placebo) affected by schizophrenia‐spectrum disorders and bipolar disorder. Melatonin/ramelteon outperformed placebo on the primary outcome (SMD −0.28, 95% CI = −0.39 ÷ −0.168), as well as on all individual components of metabolic syndrome (systolic blood pressure MD −3.266, 95% CI = −6.020 ÷ −0.511; fasting glucose MD −3.766, 95% CI = −5.938 ÷ −1.593; triglycerides MD −9.800, 95% CI = −19.431 ÷ −0.169; HDL MD 2.995, 95% CI = 0.567 ÷ 5.423), except waist circumference.

Conclusions

Melatonin/ramelteon augmentation may be beneficial for non‐anthropometric metabolic syndrome components in patients treated with antipsychotics.
The effect of sodium channels on neurological/neuronal disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Bagheri Shokufeh , Haddadi Rasool , Saki Sahar , Kourosh‐Arami Masoumeh , Komaki Alireza
Published: October 2021

Neurological and neuronal disorders are associated with structural, biochemical, or electrical abnormalities in the nervous system. Many neurological diseases have not yet been discovered. Interventions used for the treatment of these disorders include avoidance measures, lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, neurorehabilitation, pain management, medication, and surgery. In the sodium channelopathies, alterations in the structure, expression, and function of voltage‐gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are considered as the causes of neurological and neuronal diseases. Online databases, including Scopus, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and PubMed were assessed for studies published between 1977 and 2020 using the keywords of review, sodium channels blocker, neurological diseases, and neuronal diseases. VGSCs consist of one α subunit and two β subunits. These subunits are known to regulate the gating kinetics, functional characteristics, and localization of the ion channel. These channels are involved in cell migration, cellular connections, neuronal pathfinding, and neurite outgrowth. Through the VGSC, the action potential is triggered and propagated in the neurons. Action potentials are physiological functions and passage of impermeable ions. The electrophysiological properties of these channels and their relationship with neurological and neuronal disorders have been identified. Subunit mutations are involved in the development of diseases, such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, autism, and Alzheimer's disease. Accordingly, we conducted a review of the link between VGSCs and neurological and neuronal diseases. Also, novel therapeutic targets were introduced for future drug discoveries.
Fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase deficiency causes fatty liver disease and requires long‐term hepatic follow‐up
Authors: Gorce Magali , Lebigot Elise , Arion Alina , Brassier Anaïs , Cano Aline , De Lonlay Pascale , Feillet François , Gay Claire , Labarthe François , Nassogne Marie‐Cécile , Roche Sandrine , Roubertie Agathe , Sacaze Elise , Touati Guy , Broué Pierre
Published: October 2021

Liver disease, occurring during pediatric or adult age, is often of undetermined cause. Some cases are probably related to undiagnosed inherited metabolic disorders. Hepatic disorders associated with fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase deficiency, a gluconeogenesis defect, are not reported in the literature. These symptoms are mainly described during acute crises, and many reports do not mention them because hypoglycemia and hyperlactatemia are more frequently in the forefront. Herein, the liver manifestations of 18 patients affected with fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase deficiency are described and the corresponding literature is reviewed. Interestingly, all 18 patients had liver abnormalities either during follow‐up (hepatomegaly [n = 8/18], elevation of transaminases [n = 6/15], bright liver [n = 7/11]) or during acute crises (hepatomegaly [n = 10/17], elevation of transaminases [n = 13/16], acute liver failure [n = 6/14], bright liver [n = 4/14]). Initial reports described cases of liver steatosis, when liver biopsy was necessary to confirm the diagnosis by an enzymatic study. There is no clear pathophysiological basis for this fatty liver disease but we postulate that endoplasmic reticulum stress and de novo lipogenesis activation could be key factors, as observed in FBP1 knockout mice. Liver steatosis may expose patients to severe long‐term liver complications. As hypoglycemia becomes less frequent with age, most adult patients are no longer monitored by hepatologist. Signs of fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase deficiency may be subtle and can be missed in childhood. We suggest that fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase deficiency should be considered as an etiology of hepatic steatosis, and a liver monitoring protocol should be set up for these patients, during lifelong follow‐up.
Higher stock plant nitrogen and phosphorus levels favor rooting on mini cuttings of tea tree
Authors: Lowe Gail E. , Shepherd Mervyn , Raymond Carolyn , Rose Terry
Published: October 2021

The impact of N and P nutrition of stock plants of tea trees (Melaleuca alternifolia) on rooting and survival of cuttings was investigated in order to optimize adventitious rooting and growth of scion cuttings used for clonal propagation. High rates of 300 kg N ha–1 and 100 kg P ha–1 led to higher rooting, shoot elongation, and survival of the cuttings than low rates of 25 kg N ha–1 and 5 kg P ha–1, and are thus recommended for tea tree clonal propagation.
A comparative study on physicochemical and micellar solubilization performance between monoglucosyl rebaudioside A and rebaudioside A
Authors: Zhang Tongtong , Myint Khaing zar , Xia Yongmei , Wu Jing
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Rebaudioside A (RA) and its monoglucosyl derivative, as like rebaudioside D (RD) are the most popular stevia glycosides but possess poor solubility in water, which limited their application as edible surfactants, the applications as in micellar solubilization and drug delivery. Meanwhile, effect of the monoglucosyl attached to RA moiety remains unclear.

RESULTS

Monoglucosyl rebaudioside A (RAG1) was synthesized via hydrolyzing the transglycosylation product of RA with 95% of RA converted. RAG1 content in raw reaction mixture was as high as 69.5% of total glycosides, and harvested with a content of 88.2% by simple filtration. The RAG1 exhibited an aqueous solubility of 87 folds of RA or 391 folds of RD at 25 °C. The surface activity of RAG1 solution was higher than RA and invincible to RD. The RAG1 micelles promoted aqueous solubility of idebenone (IDE) up to 500 folds higher at 25 °C. The cumulative release rate of IDE encapsulated in RAG1 micelles was 777.5% or 456.7% higher of that of free IDE in simulated gastric/intestinal fluids in 14 h, respectively. The RAG1‐IDE remained the same in 98 days at 25 °C.

CONCLUSION

The α‐linked glucosyl to RA induced higher hydrophilicity and surface activity than that resulted by β‐linked glucosyl, making RAG1 not only dramatically raise the aqueous solubility of RA, but also endow IDE folds higher in bioaccessibility, yet making the capsule stable at storage. The results would provide a new edible delivery nanocarrier for encapsulation of hydrophobic bioactive components. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Systematic characterization of the absorbed components of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus and their metabolic pathways in rat plasma by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐Q‐Exactive Orbitrap tandem mass spectrometry combined with network pharmacology
Authors: Zhang Danjie , Xiong Lewen , Fang Linlin , Li Huifei , Zhao Xin , Luan Ruqiao , Zhao Pan , Zhang Xuelan
Published: October 2021

Ligustri Lucidi Fructus is a dried and mature fruit of Ligustrum lucidum Ait., which has the effects of nourishing liver and kidney. Herein, an accurate and sensitive method was established for the separation and identification of the absorbed constituents and metabolites of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus in rat plasma based on ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐Q‐Exactive Orbitrap tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 73 prototype constituents and 148 metabolites were identified or characterized in administered plasma, and the possible metabolic pathways of constituents mainly involved hydroxylation, sulfation, demethylation, and glucuronidation. Besides, the network pharmacology was further investigated to illuminate its potential mechanism of treatment for liver injury by the biological targets regulating related pathways. Network pharmacological analysis showed that target components through 399 targets regulate 220 pathways. The docking results showed that 36 key target components were closely related to liver injury. Overall, the study clearly presented the metabolic processes of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus and gave a comprehensive metabolic profile of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus in vivo first. Combining with network pharmacology and molecular docking discovered potential drug targets and disclose the biological processes of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus, which will be a viable step toward uncovering the secret mask of study for traditional Chinese medicine.
Exploring the genetic variation for sodicity tolerance in Melia dubia evolved in Indian conditions
Authors: Kumar Raj , Banyal Rakesh , Singh Awtar , Yadav Rajender Kumar
Published: October 2021

Soil sodicity is one of the major constraints for the success of afforestation worldwide. High sodicity causes poor soil physical conditions and thus adversely affect tree growth and biomass production. However, considerable intraspecific variation for sodicity tolerance exists in most of the trees species. Presently, no information is available on sodicity tolerance in the genotypes of the industrially important Melia dubia tree. Therefore, we examined twenty‐five genotypes of M. dubia, that has evolved in different parts of India, to elucidate mechanisms and identify traits imparting sodicity tolerance in these genotypes. The experimental evidence showed the significant genetic variability and relationships in genotypes for various morphological and physiological traits in response to the sodicity stress. On an average, sodicity stress reduced plant height, collar diameter, and shoot biomass by 15%, 18%, and 60%, respectively. The shoots Na+ concentration had negative correlation with the growth traits. Shoot Na+ ions exclusion was found to increase sodicity tolerance and conferred salt tolerance mechanism in M. dubia. Path analysis revealed that the plant height, collar diameter, number of leaves, and branches were major determinants of shoot biomass production. Cluster analysis validated the genotypes response to sodicity and classified the germplasm into sensitive, moderately tolerant, and tolerant category each consisting of nine, eleven, and five genotypes, respectively. Among genotypes, the MDSS06, MDSS13, and MDSS21 produced greater growth and biomass under sodic stress and indicated good growth potential in such soil. The results showed the presence of a high genetic diversity for salt tolerance in Melia, and the identified genotypes can be considered for strengthening the breeding programs aiming at improving the sodicity tolerance of the species. Our result concluded that genetic variation and breeding approaches using the MDSS06, 13, and 21 genotypes have tremendous potential to improve the growth, biomass, and overall productivity of M. dubia under sodic soil conditions.
Mechanisms of land degradation and their environmental implications in a middle‐latitude desert area of China
Authors: Zhu Bing‐Qi
Published: October 2021

The movement of aeolian materials and dynamics of dune landforms are results of the transportation and accumulation of sandy sediments under the influence of climate, in which the processes that gave birth to sand dune formations are complex as the arid area has experienced different periods of humidity and aridity. These dynamics are still not well understood at present, especially at the inter‐decadal time scale. Based on a comprehensive analysis of geomorphological, sedimentological, geochemical, and ecohydrological data, this study discussed the dynamical changes of different dune landforms during the past half‐century and their formation mechanism in the Hexi Corridor, northern China. The results show that on the inter‐annual and inter‐decadal scales, the crescent‐shaped dunes move the fastest among different dune types. Dunes in Minqin move the fastest (at 6.2 ± 0.5 m yr−1) and dunes in Dunhuang move the slowest (at 0.8 ± 0.2 m yr−1). The dune sands are mainly medium sand (21.7%–57.4%) and fine sand (23.2%–53.0%) with an average grain size of 0.07 ± 0.01 mm ~0.24 ± 0.06 mm, similar to the world's average particle size of sand dunes. Annual precipitation and spring precipitation, annual average wind speed, and number of annual strong wind days are the main factors affecting the dynamic changes of dunes in the Corridor, indicating a major influence of climatic factors. STC (sufficient transport capacity) is evidenced for both the western and eastern Hexi Corridor, however, SSS (sufficient sand supply) and SA (sand availability) are the favourable factor for dune formation in the east part but is the limiting factor for the west. In the past half‐century, although the vulnerability of land degradation is a function of climate change, geomorphological processes, and anthropogenic pressure in the Hexi Corridor, water resource limitations have been more important.
Mixotrophy upgrades food quality for marine calanoid copepods
Authors: Traboni Claudia , Calbet Albert , Saiz Enric
Published: October 2021

Inorganic nutrient limitation affects the stoichiometry and nutritional quality of marine phytoplankton. Mixoplankton, able to photosynthesize and feed simultaneously in the one cell, can compensate shortage of nutrients by phagotrophy, theoretically upgrading their nutritional quality for their predators: the zooplankton. Yet, the additional value that phagotrophy in mixoplankton may provide to support zooplankton growth and recruitment has been poorly explored. Therefore, we investigated the feeding and reproductive performances of the copepods Paracartia grani and Centropages typicus on mono‐diets of the dinoflagellate Karlodinium veneficum grown as strict autotroph and as mixotroph, both under N and P depletion, and in nutrient‐balanced conditions (f/2 medium; only as autotroph). Feeding and reproduction outputs were generally higher in P. grani than in C. typicus. Both copepod species ingested the mixotrophic K. veneficum at similar rates than the autotrophic ones in either nutrient‐limited scenario. However, egg production and recruitment rates generally increased when feeding on mixotrophs, in P. grani on both N‐ and P‐limited diets, and in C. typicus under P limitation. In general, P limitation influenced copepod physiology more than N depletion. Our results show that phagotrophy upgrades nutritional quality in nutrient‐limited mixotrophs as prey for copepods compared to the strict autotrophic ones. These findings are among the first reported cases of copepod ingestion in the laboratory on actively feeding mixoplankton, and they highlight the importance of considering the trophic mode of the protist and the response by various zooplanktonic predators when attempting to understand the functioning of marine planktonic food webs.
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers Potentiate the Protective Effect of Branched‐Chain Amino Acids on Skeletal Muscle Atrophy in Cirrhotic Rats
Authors: Takeda Soichi , Kaji Kosuke , Nishimura Norihisa , Enomoto Masahide , Fujimoto Yuki , Murata Koji , Takaya Hiroaki , Kawaratani Hideto , Moriya Kei , Namisaki Tadashi , Akahane Takemi , Yoshiji Hitoshi
Published: October 2021

Scope

This study investigated the combined effect of the angiotensin II (AT‐II) receptor blocker losartan and branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) on skeletal muscle atrophy in rats with cirrhosis and steatohepatitis.

Method and Results

Fischer 344 rats are fed a choline‐deficient l‐amino acid‐defined (CDAA) diet for 12 weeks and treated with oral losartan (30 mg kg−1 day−1) and/or BCAAs (Aminoleban EN, 2500 mg kg−1 day−1). Treatment with losartan and BCAAs attenuated hepatic inflammation and fibrosis and improved skeletal muscle atrophy and strength in CDAA‐fed rats. Both agents reduced intramuscular myostatin and pro‐inflammatory cytokine levels, resulting in inhibition of the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) through interference with the SMAD and nuclear factor‐kappa B pathways, respectively. Losartan also augmented the BCAA‐mediated increase of skeletal muscle mass by promoting insulin growth factor‐I production and mitochondrial biogenesis. Moreover, losartan decreased the intramuscular expression of transcription factor EB (TFEB), a transcriptional inducer of E3 ubiquitin ligase regulated by AT‐II. In vitro assays illustrated that losartan promoted mitochondrial biogenesis and reduced TFEB expression in AT‐II‐stimulated rat myocytes, thereby potentiating the inhibitory effects of BCAAs on the UPS and caspase‐3 cleavage.

Conclusion

These results indicate that this regimen could serve as a novel treatment for patients with sarcopenia and liver cirrhosis.
Self‐supervised IVIM DWI parameter estimation with a physics based forward model
Authors: Vasylechko Serge Didenko , Warfield Simon K. , Afacan Onur , Kurugol Sila
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To assess the robustness and repeatability of intravoxel incoherent motion model (IVIM) parameter estimation for the diffusion‐weighted MRI in the abdominal organs under the constraints of noisy diffusion signal using a novel neural network method.

Methods

Clinically acquired abdominal scans of Crohn’s disease patients were retrospectively analyzed with regions segmented in the kidney cortex, spleen, liver, and bowel. A novel IVIM parameter fitting method based on the principle of a physics guided self‐supervised convolutional neural network that does not require reference parameter estimates for training was compared to a conventional non‐linear least squares (NNLS) algorithm, and a voxelwise trained artificial neural network (ANN).

Results

Results showed substantial increase in parameter robustness to the noise corrupted signal. In an intra‐session repeatability experiment, the proposed method showed reduced coefficient of variation (CoV) over multiple acquisitions in comparison to conventional NLLS method and comparable performance to ANN. The use of D and f estimates from the proposed method led to the smallest misclassification error in linear discriminant analysis for characterization between normal and abnormal Crohn’s disease bowel tissue. The fitting of parameter remains to be challenging.

Conclusion

The proposed method yields robust estimates of D and f IVIM parameters under the constraints of noisy diffusion signal. This indicates a potential for the use of the proposed method in conjunction with accelerated DW‐MRI acquisition strategies, which would typically result in lower signal to noise ratio.