bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of mRNAs encoding two different soluble forms of the human interferon α‐receptor
Authors: Abramovich Carolina , Ratovitski Edward , Lundgren Erik , Revel Michel
Published: July 2002

Transcripts of the human IFN α‐receptor (IFNAR) gene, lacking the transmembrane (TM) domain were found in human myeloma U266S cells, in addition to the transmembranal IFNAR cDNA. Two different cDNAs encoding such soluble IFNAR forms were identified. Form 1 has a deletion causing a frameshift toward the end of the extracellular (EC) domain predicting a tail of 7 amino acids. Form 2 has two in‐frame deletions and conserves most of the intracytoplasmatic domain of IFNAR. The transcripts for the two soluble forms are still found in U266
r
cells which have lost the transmembranal IFNAR transcript. Human cells seem to have independent mechanisms to synthesize soluble IFN receptors, which may act as competitors outside the cells or carry IFN‐mediated functions inside the cell.
Transforming growth factor β mediates increase of mature transmembrane amyloid precursor protein in microglial cells
Authors: Mönning Ursula , Sandbrink Rupert , Banati Richard B. , Masters Colin L. , Beyreuther Konrad
Published: July 2002

By using the immortalized microglial cell line BV‐2, we show that the high expression of theβA4 amyloid precursor protein (APP), its biogenesis and metabolism is modulated by TGF β, a cytokine with immunosuppressive activity, and by the microglia‐stimulating agent LPS. TGFβ induces accumulation of cellular mature APP, the putative precursor of the amyloid subunit of Alzheimer's disease. LPS leads to an increase in cellular immature, non‐amyloidogenic APP and secretion of also non‐amyloidogenic APP fragments. We also demonstrate a functional involvement of ECM molecules in the regulation of microglial APP expression at mRNA and protein level by TGFβ and LPS.
Crystals of soluble interleukin‐1 receptor complexed with its natural antagonist reveal a 1:1 receptor‐ligand complex
Authors: Schreuder Herman , Tardif Chantal , Soffientini Adolfo , Sarubbi Edoardo , Akeson Ann , Bowlin Terry , Yanofsky Stephen , Barrett Ronald W.
Published: July 2002

Interleukin‐1 is a cytokine involved in the acute phase response against infection and injury. We obtained crystals of a complex of soluble, recombinant human interleukin‐1 receptor and recombinant human interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist, a naturally occurring antagonist. The crystals are suitable for X‐ray analysis and diffract to 2.7 Å resolution. Solvent content calculations indicate that the crystals contain one receptor and one antagonist molecule per asymmetric unit. Other receptor to antagonist ratios are highly unlikely. These results suggest that the interleukin‐1 antagonist binds a single receptor molecule and does not cause receptor aggregation.
Distribution of actin microfilaments in frog skin epithelial granular cells
Authors: Chou Kuang‐Yi , Els Willem J.
Published: July 2002

Summary— Microfilaments were localised by immunofluorescence and immunogold cytochemistry to examine their distribution in granular cells of the isolated frog skin epithelium. Strongly fluorescent bundles of actin were observed beneath the plasma membrane with little evidence for actin in the central regions. Higher resolution offered by cytochemistry revealed that bundles of actin filaments comprised a substantial portion of the cortical cytoskeleton. Quantitative analysis of the frequency of gold label revealed an extremely rich array of filaments beneath the apical membrane of granular cells, with markedly less babel along the basolateral membrane and in the central cytoplasm. Treating cells with cytochalasin B or arginine vasopressin caused an apparent disruption of the apical actin fibres, concurrent with a decrease in gold label density. Assumably these signs are indicative of depolymerization of the filaments. Although the significance of this distribution is unknown, the apical polarisation of actin is consistent with a role in regulating the Na+ permeability of the apical membrane. The data are discussed in relation to possible roles of the cytoskeleton in the regulation of transepithelial sodium transport by vasopressin.
Failure to identify a male winter-born schizophrenia subgroup clinically
Authors: Modestin J , Würmle O , Ammann R
Published: July 2002

The distribution of 282 Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC) and of 224 DSM-III-R schizophrenic patients, respectively, by month of their birth was studied. The winter-spring birth rate excess was confirmed with a maximum from January to March. Winterborn and summer-born schizophrenics were compared. No convincing differences were found with regard to a larger set of demographic, psychosocial and clinical variables in univariate comparisons, nor did we succeed in separating and identifying a special winter-born schizophrenia subgroup using the method of cluster analysis. Negative results were obtained in spite of the fact that many of the included variables reflected the course of the illness and the degree of chronicity. Either the set of the variables we used has not been ‘correct’ enough or the separation of a winter-born subgroup is not clinically feasible.
Cost-utility in CNS drug trials
Authors: Ziegler F
Published: July 2002

This paper considers some of the theoretical and practical problems of conducting cost-utility analyses alongside clinical trials. In order to measure utilities of different health states in a clinical trial a number of critical assumptions have to be made. Some of these assumptions are questionable on a theoretical level, others empirically invalid. The practical problems of measuring utilities are discussed. The standard gamble is shown to be the most validated method of utility measurement, but still based on very strong assumptions. The standard gamble instrument is also costly and difficult to administer in clinical trials. Other instruments are found to be less valid than the standard gamble. It is concluded that although cost-utility analysis seems relevant in some instances, investigators should avoid this assessment of utility and instead measure cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit and quality of life.
Genomic Exploration of the Hemiascomycetous Yeasts: 13. Pichia angusta
Authors: Blandin Gaëlle , Llorente Bertrand , Malpertuy Alain , Wincker Patrick , Artiguenave François , Dujon Bernard
Published: July 2002

As part of a comparative genomics project on 13 hemiascomycetous yeasts, the Pichia angusta type strain was studied using a partial random sequencing strategy. With coverage of 0.5 genome equivalents, about 2500 novel protein‐coding genes were identified, probably corresponding to more than half of the P. angusta protein‐coding genes, 6% of which do not have homologs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Some of them contain one or two introns, on average three times shorter than those in S. cerevisiae. We also identified 28 tRNA genes, a few retrotransposons similar to Ty5 of S. cerevisiae, solo long terminal repeats, the whole ribosomal DNA cluster, and segments of mitochondrial DNA. The P. angusta sequences were deposited in EMBL under the accession numbers AL430961 to AL436044.
Deletion mutagenesis as a test of evolutionary relatedness of indoleglycerol phosphate synthase with other TIM barrel enzymes
Authors: Stehlin Catherine , Dahm Anke , Kirschner Kasper
Published: July 2002

© 1997 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.
A novel small stable RNA, 6Sa RNA, from the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. strain PCC6301
Authors: Watanabe Tsuneaki , Sugiura Masahiro , Sugita Mamoru
Published: July 2002

We isolated a novel RNA species from the unicellular cyanobacterium Synechococcus PCC6301 and determined its gene sequence. This novel RNA was termed 6Sa RNA from its length (185 nt). Cross‐hybridization of 6Sa RNA to other related microorganisms suggests that its existence is restricted to the Synechococcus genus or related organisms. A high level of accumulation of this RNA was observed by Northern analysis, indicating that 6Sa RNA is stable in cells. Computer‐aided prediction of the 6Sa RNA secondary structure also supports its stability.
Reconstitution of F1‐ATPase activity from Escherichia coli subunits α, β and subunit γ tagged with six histidine residues at the C‐terminus
Authors: Ekuni Atsuko , Watanabe Hikaru , Kuroda Nozomi , Sawada Ken , Murakami Hiroshi , Kanazawa Hiroshi
Published: July 2002

An engineered γ subunit of Escherichia coli F1‐ATPase with extra 14 and 20 amino acid residues at the N‐ and C‐termini (His‐tag γ), respectively, was overproduced in E. coli and purified. Six histidines are included in the C‐terminal extension. The reconstituted F1 containing α, β, and His‐tagged γ exhibited sixty percent of the wild‐type ATPase activity. The reconstituted αβHis‐tag γ complex was subjected to affinity chromatography with nickel‐nitrilotriacetic acid (Ni‐NTA) agarose resin. ATPase activity was eluted specifically with imidazole. These results implied that the tag sequence protruded to the surface of the complex and did not seriously impair the activity. The reconstituted αβHis‐tag γ complex, even after its binding to the resin, exhibited ATPase activity suggesting that the γ subunit, when fixed to a solid phase, may rotate the αβ complex. This system may provide a new approach for analysis of the rotation mechanisms in F1‐ATPase.
A preferential pole for exocytosis in cultured chromaffin cells revealed by confocal microscopy
Authors: Cuchillo-Ibáñez Inmaculada , Michelena Pedro , Albillos Almudena , Garcı́a Antonio G.
Published: July 2002

Histological studies suggest that adrenal medulla chromaffin cells in situ are polarised, but functional evidence is lacking. We present here the first demonstration for polarisation of exocytosis in isolated, spherical, bovine chromaffin cells. Cells were stimulated with 70 mM K+ to cause a marked enhancement of catecholamine release, monitored amperometrically. FM1‐43 and dopamine β‐hydroxylase antibodies provided fluorescence confocal pictures that were 2–3‐fold more intense in the bottom of the cells, as compared to equatorial or apex planes. This suggests that the solid phase to which the cell attaches serves as a ‘trophic’ signal for the polarisation of its secretory apparatus.
Characterization of a new variant DNA (cytosine‐5)‐methyltransferase unable to methylate double stranded DNA isolated from the marine annelid worm Chaetopterus variopedatus
Authors: del Gaudio Rosanna , Di Giaimo Rossella , Potenza Nicoletta , Branno Margherita , Aniello Francesco , Geraci Giuseppe
Published: July 2002

The enzyme S‐adenosylmethionine‐DNA (cytosine‐5)‐methyltransferase has been identified, first time for invertebrates, in embryos of the marine polychaete annelid worm Chaetopterus variopedatus. The molecule has been isolated from embryos at 15 h of development. It is a single peptide of about 200 kDa molecular weight, cross‐reacting with antibodies against sea urchin DNA methyltransferase. The enzymatic properties of the molecule are similar to those of Dnmt1 methyltransferases isolated from other organisms, but with the peculiarity to be unable to make ‘de novo’ methylation on double stranded DNA.
An Asp79Asn mutation of the α2A‐adrenoceptor interferes equally with agonist activation of individual Giα‐family G protein subtypes
Authors: Ward Richard J , Milligan Graeme
Published: July 2002

The quantitative effects of an Asp79Asn mutation in the porcine α2A‐adrenoceptor on adrenaline‐mediated stimulation of the α subunit of individual members of the Gi family of G proteins were assessed by measuring GTP turnover number for fusion proteins between the wild type or mutated receptor and pertussis toxin‐resistant forms of each of Gi1, Gi2 and Gi3. In each case the receptor mutation limited activation of the G protein to 8–14% of that produced by the wild type receptor. Previous demonstration that in a single cell this mutation selectively interferes with α2A‐adrenoceptor regulation of distinct effector end points transduced by Gi family members must therefore reflect differential requirements for amplification or the cellular location of individual, co‐expressed, G proteins.
Heparin binding peptides co‐purify with glycosaminoglycans from human plasma
Authors: Chevanne Marta , Caldini Riccardo , Manao Giampaolo , Ruggiero Marco , Vannucchi Simonetta
Published: July 2002

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are complexed with plasma proteins and proteolysis of plasma reduced the protein–GAG ratio about 140‐fold. After dialysis, analysis by gradient PAGE revealed heparinase‐1‐sensitive GAGs, thus suggesting that heparin could be among the plasma GAGs. However, after dialysis most of the plasma GAGs were still not ‘free’. PAGE of peptides resistant to proteolysis showed high molecular weight bands on the two sides of the dialysis membrane despite the 3.5 kDa molecular weight cut‐off. Progressive dilution of the sample allowed passage of peptides appearing as high molecular weight bands in the diffusate. We interpret this phenomenon as the presence of low molecular weight peptides that aggregate when concentrated. Peptides on both sides of the membranes bound heparin.
Histone‐ and chromatin‐binding activity of template activating factor‐I
Authors: Matsumoto Ken , Nagata Kyosuke , Okuwaki Mitsuru , Tsujimoto Masafumi
Published: July 2002

Template activating factor‐I (TAF‐I) is a histone‐binding chromatin remodeling factor. We recently found that TAF‐I is capable of mediating decondensation of Xenopus sperm chromatin by releasing sperm‐specific basic proteins. Here we present evidence that TAF‐I preferentially binds to histone H3 among four core histones. Immunofluorescent staining revealed that TAF‐I binds to the decondensed sperm chromatin, of which protein components predominantly consist of histones H3 and H4.
Reducing variability among treatment machines using knowledge‐based planning for head and neck, pancreatic, and rectal cancer
Authors: Hirashima Hideaki , Nakamura Mitsuhiro , Mukumoto Nobutaka , Ashida Ryo , Fujii Kota , Nakamura Kiyonao , Nakajima Aya , Sakanaka Katsuyuki , Yoshimura Michio , Mizowaki Takashi
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to assess dosimetric indices of RapidPlan model‐based plans for different energies (6, 8, 10, and 15 MV; 6‐ and 10‐MV flattening filter‐free), multileaf collimator (MLC) types (Millennium 120, High Definition 120, dual‐layer MLC), and disease sites (head and neck, pancreatic, and rectal cancer) and compare these parameters with those of clinical plans.

Methods

RapidPlan models in the Eclipse version 15.6 were used with the data of 28, 42, and 20 patients with head and neck, pancreatic, and rectal cancer, respectively. RapidPlan models of head and neck, pancreatic, and rectal cancer were created for TrueBeam STx (High Definition 120) with 6 MV, TrueBeam STx with 10‐MV flattening filter‐free, and Clinac iX (Millennium 120) with 15 MV, respectively. The models were used to create volumetric‐modulated arc therapy plans for a 10‐patient test dataset using all energy and MLC types at all disease sites. The Holm test was used to compare multiple dosimetric indices in different treatment machines and energy types.

Results

The dosimetric indices for planning target volume and organs at risk in RapidPlan model‐based plans were comparable to those in the clinical plan. Furthermore, no dose difference was observed among the RapidPlan models. The variability among RapidPlan models was consistent regardless of the treatment machines, MLC types, and energy.

Conclusions

Dosimetric indices of RapidPlan model‐based plans appear to be comparable to the ones based on clinical plans regardless of energies, MLC types, and disease sites. The results suggest that the RapidPlan model can generate treatment plans independent of the type of treatment machine.
Acid and Alkali‐Resistant Textile Triboelectric Nanogenerator as a Smart Protective Suit for Liquid Energy Harvesting and Self‐Powered Monitoring in High‐Risk Environments
Authors: Ma Liyun , Wu Ronghui , Patil Aniruddha , Yi Jia , Liu Di , Fan Xuwei , Sheng Feifan , Zhang Yifan , Liu Sai , Shen Shen , Wang Jun , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: June 2021

Industrialization and anthropogenic activities are expected and unavoidable to consummate the current resources of humankind, which also lead to accidents in the laboratory, chemical plants, or other high risk areas that cause severe burns, or even casualties. Increased casualties in such accidents are due to inappropriate safety measures and prevention. Here, a smart anti‐chemical protective suit with a bio‐motion energy harvesting and self‐powered safety monitoring system is demonstrated, which can protect the body from chemical harm, detect sudden chemical spills, monitor human real‐time living signals, and trigger alarms in an emergency. Particularly, a fabric triboelectric nanogenerator (F‐TENG), which is fabricated by the all‐fiber single‐electrode triboelectric nanogenerator yarn (SETY), works as the basic elements of the intelligent suit. The SETY with core‐shell structured design shows a high sensitivity to the corrosive liquids including acids and alkalis. Furthermore, the working principle of the yarn based nanogenerator that is powered by contacting with acid liquid droplets is demonstrated for the first time. In addition, discretionary thickness, permeability, and any other functionalities are also achieved by taking advantage of the fabric structure. This self‐powered smart anti‐chemical protective suit equipped with a real time monitoring system will benefit the wearer who works in a very high‐risk environment.
Opportunities and Challenges in Precise Synthesis of Transition Metal Single‐Atom Supported by 2D Materials as Catalysts toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Niu Wen‐Jun , He Jin‐Zhong , Gu Bing‐Ni , Liu Mao‐Cheng , Chueh Yu‐Lun
Published: June 2021

Transition metal single‐atom catalysts (SACs) are currently a hot area of research in the field of electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this review, the recent advances in transition metal single‐atom supported by 2D materials as catalysts for ORR with high performance are reported. Due to their large surface area, uniformly exposed lattice plane, and adjustable electronic state, 2D materials are ideal supporting materials for exploring ORR active sites and surface reactions. The rational design principles and synthetic strategies of transition metal SACs supported by 2D materials are systematically introduced while the identification of active sites, their possible catalytic mechanisms as well as the perspectives on the future of transition metal SACs supported by 2D materials for ORR applications are discussed. Finally, according to the current development trend of ORR catalysts, the future opportunities and challenges of transition metal SACs supported by 2D materials are summarized.
Harvesting Cool Daylight in Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Halides Microtubules through the Reservation of Pressure‐Induced Emission
Authors: Zhao Dianlong , Xiao Guanjun , Liu Zhun , Sui Laizhi , Yuan Kaijun , Ma Zhiwei , Zou Bo
Published: June 2021

Pressure‐induced emission (PIE) is extensively studied in halide perovskites or derivative hybrid halides. However, owing to the soft inorganic lattice of these materials, the intense emission is barely retained under ambient conditions, thus largely limiting their practical applications in optoelectronics at atmospheric pressure. Here, remarkably enhanced emission in microtubules of the 0D hybrid halide (C5H7N2)2ZnBr4 ((4AMP)2ZnBr4) is successfully achieved by means of pressure treatment at room temperature. Notably, the emission, which is over ten times more intense than the emission in the initial state, is retained under ambient conditions upon the complete release of pressure. Furthermore, the pressure processing enables the tuning of “sky blue light” before compression to “cool daylight” with a remarkable quantum yield of 88.52% after decompression, which is of considerable interest for applications in next‐generation lighting and displays. The irreversible electronic structural transition, induced by the steric hindrance with respect to complexly configurational organic molecules [4AMP], is highly responsible for the eventual retention of PIE and tuning of the color temperature. The findings represent a significant step toward the capture of PIE under ambient conditions, thus facilitating its potential solid‐state lighting applications.
Melt Electrowriting of Isomalt for High‐Resolution Templating of Embedded Microchannels
Authors: Nadernezhad Ali , Ryma Matthias , Genç Hatice , Cicha Iwona , Jüngst Tomasz , Groll Jürgen
Published: June 2021

Fabrication of microchannels using 3D printing of sugars as fugitive material is explored in different fields, including microfluidics. However, establishing reproducible methods for the controlled production of sugar structures with sub‐100 μm dimensions remains a challenge. This study pioneers the processing of sugars by melt electrowriting (MEW) enabling the fabrication of structures with so far unprecedented resolution from Isomalt. Based on a systematic variation of process parameters, fibers with diameters down to 20 μm can be fabricated. The flexibility in the adjustment of fiber diameter by on‐demand alteration of MEW parameters enables generating constructs with perfusable channels within polydimethylsiloxane molds. These channels have a diameter that can be adjusted from 30 to 200 μm in a single design. Taken together, the experiments show that MEW strongly benefits from the thermal and physical stability of Isomalt, providing a robust platform for the fabrication of small‐diameter embedded microchannel systems.
Topological Defect‐Rich Carbon as a Metal‐Free Cathode Catalyst for High‐Performance Li‐CO2 Batteries
Authors: Ye Fenghui , Gong LeLe , Long Yongde , Talapaneni Siddulu Naidu , Zhang Lipeng , Xiao Ying , Liu Dong , Hu Chuangang , Dai Liming
Published: June 2021

Exploration of the highly efficient bi‐functional catalysts toward the reduction of CO2 and decomposition of Li2CO3 at the cathode is the key for high‐performance Li‐CO2 batteries. Herein, topological defect‐rich graphene (TDG) based materials are developed as metal‐free cathodes for Li‐CO2 batteries, presenting an unprecedented full discharge capacity of over 69 000 mA h g−1 at the current density of 0.5 A g−1, a relatively small voltage gap of 1.87 V (Li/Li+) even at an extremely high current density of 2.0 A g−1, and an excellent long‐term stable cycle life of up to 600 cycles at 1.0 A g−1. The outstanding performance of Li‐CO2 batteries with the TDG cathodic electrocatalyst can be attributed to the introduction of topological defects in the carbon skeleton, providing sufficient active sites for CO2 reduction and evolution to facilitate the formation/decomposition of Li2CO3 during the discharging/charging process. The density functional theory calculations reveal the superiority of the negatively charged C atoms in topological defects as the adsorption for CO2 molecules and the activation sites for the decomposition of Li2CO3, and that the heterocyclic pentagon ring (C5) has a relatively low theoretical potential gap (1.01 V) during the charge and discharge processes.
Effects of perennial biomass yield energy grasses and fertilization on soil characteristics and nutrient balances
Authors: Siri‐Prieto Guillermo , Bustamante Mauricio , Battaglia Martin , Ernst Oswaldo , Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Sadeghpour Amir
Published: June 2021

Besides its bioenergy potential, perennial grasses can also have positive impacts on soil quality. However, responses of soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) depend on multiple factors, including grass species selection and N and P addition. We investigated the effect of four N and P fertility treatments (control = 0 kg N + 0 kg P ha–1 [N0P0]; 100 kg N + 0 kg P ha–1 [N1P0]; 0 kg N + 100 kg P ha–1 [N0P1]; 100 kg N + 100 kg P ha–1 [N1P1] applied annually] across 9 yr in Uruguay on soil nutrient balances, C and N pools, and biomass yields of elephantgrass (EG) (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.), giant reed (GR) (Arundo donax L.), and switchgrass (SW) (Panicum virgatum L.). Across years, EG had the highest biomass yield, followed by GR and SW (18.9, 16.3, and 14.1 Mg ha–1 yr–1, respectively). Across species, aboveground biomass increased by 46% with N addition. Yield response to P fertilization was lower (+11%). Elephantgrass had the highest N and P negative balance. Soil organic C and TN concentration were affected by species but not by fertilizer treatments. Giant reed had the highest SOC content gain in the first 0–40 cm (540 kg C ha– yr–1), and was the only species maintaining TN content from the beginning of the study. Giant reed could be an excellent option as a bioenergy crop due to its high aboveground biomass production, and its positive impacts on SOC and TN pools.
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in older myelofibrosis patients: A study of the chronic malignancies working party of EBMT and the Spanish Myelofibrosis Registry
Authors: Hernández‐Boluda Juan‐Carlos , Pereira Arturo , Kröger Nicolaus , Cornelissen Jan J. , Finke Jürgen , Beelen Dietrich , de Witte Moniek , Wilson Keith , Platzbecker Uwe , Sengeloev Henrik , Blaise Didier , Einsele Hermann , Sockel Katja , Krüger William , Lenhoff Stig , Salaroli Adriano , Martin Hans , García‐Gutiérrez Valentín , Pavone Vicenzo , Alvarez‐Larrán Alberto , Raya José‐María , Zinger Nienke , Gras Luuk , Hayden Patrick , Czerw Tomasz , P. McLornan Donal , Yakoub‐Agha Ibrahim
Published: June 2021

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT) is increasingly used in older myelofibrosis (MF) patients, but its risk/benefit ratio compared to non‐transplant approaches has not been evaluated in this population. We analyzed the outcomes of allo‐HCT in 556 MF patients aged ≥65 years from the EBMT registry, and determined the excess mortality over the matched general population of MF patients ≥65 years managed with allo‐HCT (n = 556) or conventional drug treatment (n = 176). The non‐transplant cohort included patients with intermediate‐2 or high risk DIPSS from the Spanish Myelofibrosis Registry. After a median follow‐up of 3.4 years, the estimated 5‐year survival rate, non‐relapse mortality (NRM), and relapse incidence after transplantation was 40%, 37%, and 25%, respectively. Busulfan‐based conditioning was associated with decreased mortality (HR: 0.7, 95% CI: 0.5–0.9) whereas the recipient CMV+/donor CMV‐ combination (HR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.2–2.4) and the JAK2 mutated genotype (HR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.5) predicted higher mortality. Busulfan‐based conditioning correlated with improved survival due to less NRM, despite its higher relapse rate when compared with melphalan‐based regimens. Excess mortality was higher in transplanted patients than in the non‐HCT cohort in the first year of follow‐up (ratio: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.13–2.80), whereas the opposite occurred between the fourth and eighth follow‐up years (ratio: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.18–0.53). Comparing the excess mortality of the two treatments, male patients seemed to benefit more than females from allo‐HCT, mainly due to their worse prognosis with non‐transplant approaches. These findings could potentially enhance counseling and treatment decision‐making in elderly transplant‐eligible MF patients.
Mobilization upon Cooling
Authors: Aeschlimann Simon , Lyu Lu , Becker Sebastian , Mousavion Sina , Speck Thomas , Elmers Hans‐Joachim , Stadtmüller Benjamin , Aeschlimann Martin , Bechstein Ralf , Kühnle Angelika
Published: June 2021

Phase transitions between different aggregate states are omnipresent in nature and technology. Conventionally, a crystalline phase melts upon heating as we use ice to cool a drink. Already in 1903, Gustav Tammann speculated about the opposite process, namely melting upon cooling. So far, evidence for such “inverse” transitions in real materials is rare and limited to few systems or extreme conditions. Here, we demonstrate an inverse phase transition for molecules adsorbed on a surface. Molybdenum tetraacetate on copper(111) forms an ordered structure at room temperature, which dissolves upon cooling. This transition is mediated by molecules becoming mobile, i.e., by mobilization upon cooling. This unexpected phenomenon is ascribed to the larger number of internal degrees of freedom in the ordered phase compared to the mobile phase at low temperatures.
Fabrication of anti‐fouling thin‐film composite reverse osmosis membrane via constructing heterogeneous wettability surface
Authors: Chen Dandan , Gao Feng , Liu Tianyu , Kang Jian , Xu Ruizhang , Cao Ya , Xiang Ming
Published: June 2021

Anti‐fouling properties are tightly related to the surface properties of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. In our study, fluorinated polyethyleneimine (FPEI) was synthesized by introducing perfluoroalkyl groups into a hydrophilic polyethyleneimine (PEI) matrix, and the heterogeneous wettability surface with hydrophilic and low‐surface‐energy properties was constructed by grafting FPEI on membrane surface via the carbodiimide‐induced method. Verified by the result analysis of SEM, AFM, and zeta potentials measurements, the fluorinated RO membrane surface presented denser, smoother, and reduced negative charge. The surface free energy of RO membrane surface after grafting FPEI decreased from 45.5 to 38.7 mJ/m2. By using bovine serum albumin (BSA), humic acid (HA), and dodecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (DTAB) as model foulants, the fluorinated RO membrane exhibits optimal fouling resistance and fouling release properties compared to pristine membrane and membrane modified by surface grafting hydrophilic PEI. Especially, the high recovery ratio (99%) and low total flux decline ratio (17.2%) were acquired during the filtration of BSA solution. These results manifested that the construction of a heterogeneous wettability surface can further improve the anti‐fouling properties of RO membranes compared to a pure hydrophilic surface, and the corresponding anti‐fouling mechanism was put forward.
Synthesis and characterization of the properties of thermosensitive elastomers with thermoplastic and magnetic particles for application in soft robotics
Authors: Prem Nina , Schale Florian , Zimmermann Klaus , Gowda Darshan Kare , Odenbach Stefan
Published: June 2021

In the currently rapidly developing field of soft robots, smart materials with controllable properties play the central role. Thermosensitive elastomers are soft, smart materials whose material properties can be controlled by changing their temperature. The aim of this work is to investigate the mechanical properties, to analyze the surface, the inner structure, and the heat transfer within the thermosensitive elastomer materials. This should provide a knowledge base for new combinations, such as a combination of thermosensitive and the well‐known magneto sensitive elastomers, in order to realize new applications. Thermoplastic polycaprolactone particles were incorporated into a flexible polydimethylsiloxane matrix to produce thermosensitive elastomer samples. With a low melting point in the range of 58–60°C, polycaprolactone offers good application potential compared to other thermoplastic materials such as polymethamethylacrylate with a melting point above 160°C. Test samples of different material compositions and geometries were made to examine temperature‐depending material properties. Two useful effects were identified: temperature‐dependent change in stiffness and the shape memory effect. In certain examinations, carbonyl iron particles were also included to find out if the two particle systems are compatible with each other and can be combined in the polydimethylsiloxane matrix without disadvantages. Changes in shore hardness before and after the influence of temperature were investigated. Micro computed tomography images and scanning electron microscopy images of the respective samples were also obtained in order to detect the temperature influence on the material internally as well as on the surface of the thermosensitive elastomers in combination with carbonyl iron particles. In order to investigate the heat transfer within the samples, heating tests were carried out and the influence of different particle concentrations of the thermosensitive elastomers with and without carbonyl iron particles was determined. Further work will focus on comprehensive investigations of thermo‐magneto‐sensitive elastomers, as this will enable the functional integration in the material to be implemented with increased efficiency. By means of the different investigations, the authors see future applications for this class of materials in adaptive sensor and gripper elements in soft robotics.
Knockdown of lncRNA TUG1 attenuates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury through regulating miR‐142‐3p
Authors: Li Leibing , Zhang Qi , Wang Yan , Yin Shixiao , Chi Shaohua , Han Fei , Wang Weijie
Published: June 2021

Cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury (CI/RI) is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system. At present, there is no specific treatment for CI/RI. It is necessary to explore the mechanism of CI/RI and find new ways to prevent and treat CI/RI. An oxygen and glucose deprivation/recovery (OGD/R) model was established to evaluate the effects of mouse astrocytes (MA‐C) cell viability and apoptosis of stepwise exposure to oxygen and glucose deprivation followed by their replenishment. This assessment included using taurine upregulated gene 1–small interfering RNAs (TUG1‐siRNA) transfection to determine the effects of TUG1 knockdown on MA‐C survival and apoptosis. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) was used to evaluate TUG1 and miR‐142‐3p expression levels. The luciferase gene reporter assay was performed to validate that miR‐142‐3p is a TUG1 target. Accordingly, the effects of miR‐142‐3p knockdown on TUG1‐induced MA‐C apoptosis were determined using flow cytometry. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) method was used to detect cell growth viability. Western blotting analysis was performed to detect the expression levels of apoptosis‐related proteins. TUG1 was upregulated, while miR‐142‐3p was downregulated in the OGD/R model of MA‐C cells. Inhibiting the expression of TUG1 could protect MA‐C cells and reverse the decrease in growth viability and increasing apoptosis of MA‐C cells caused by OGD/R stimulation. On the other hand, the inhibition of miR‐142‐3p offset the effect of TUG1 knockdown on cell viability and apoptosis. Inhibition of OGD/R‐induced increases in TUG1 expression that in turn reduces miR‐142‐3p upregulation may suppress reperfusion‐induced losses in cell viability.
Dynamics of partially collapsing pulsed fluidized bed
Authors: Ali Syed Sadiq , Hossain S. K. Safdar , Asif Mohammad
Published: June 2021

The use of flow pulsation as an effective assisted fluidization technique has been suggested in a number of applications, such as drying of food and pharmaceutical products, dry beneficiation of coal, and deagglomeration of nanopowders, owing mainly to its cost‐effectiveness and ease of implementation. The efficacy of this technique is, however, greatly affected by the frequency of pulsation since it controls the collapse dynamics of the fluidized bed. In this study, using ultrafine hydrophilic nanosilica with strong agglomeration tendencies, the pulsation frequency was controlled to allow only partial collapse of the bed between two successive pulsations while the global and local dynamics in different bed regions were carefully monitored. Besides the usual advantages associated with assisted fluidization techniques, such as lower minimum fluidization velocity, higher bed expansion, and elimination of bed non‐homogeneities, the continuous and intense solid motion imparted by the partial bed collapse caused a more substantial increase in the overall pressure drop than the one obtained with the conventional unassisted fluidization. The results of the frequency domain analysis highlighted the fact that the effect of pulsation event was felt differently in different regions of the bed depending upon the amplitude of the pulsation. These results were further corroborated by the similarity analysis.
Frequency of severe reactions following penicillin drug provocation tests: A Bayesian meta‐analysis
Authors: Cardoso‐Fernandes António , Blumenthal Kimberly G. , Chiriac Anca Mirela , Tarrio Isabel , Afonso‐João David , Delgado Luís , Fonseca João Almeida , Azevedo Luís Filipe , Sousa‐Pinto Bernardo
Published: June 2021

Background

Patients with a penicillin allergy label tend to have worse clinical outcomes and increased healthcare use. Drug provocation tests (DPT) are the gold‐standard in the diagnostic workup of penicillin allergy, but safety concerns may hinder their performance. We aimed to assess the frequency of severe reactions following a DPT in patients with reported allergy to penicillins or other β‐lactams.

Methods

We performed a systematic review, searching MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. We included primary studies assessing participants with a penicillin allergy label who underwent a DPT. We performed a Bayesian meta‐analysis to estimate the pooled frequency of severe reactions to penicillin DPTs. Sources of heterogeneity were explored by subgroup and metaregression analyses.

Results

We included 112 primary studies which included a total of 26,595 participants. The pooled frequency of severe reactions was estimated at 0.06% (95% credible interval [95% CrI] = 0.01%–0.13%; I2 = 57.9%). Most severe reactions (80/93; 86.0%) consisted of anaphylaxis. Compared to studies where the index reaction was immediate, we observed a lower frequency of severe reactions for studies assessing non‐immediate index reactions (OR = 0.05; 95% CrI = 0‐0.31). Patients reporting anaphylaxis as their index reaction were found to be at increased risk of developing severe reactions (OR = 13.5; 95% CrI = 7.7–21.5; I2 = 0.3%). Performance of direct DPTs in low‐risk patients or testing with the suspected culprit drug were not associated with clinically relevant increased risk of severe reactions.

Conclusions

In patients with a penicillin allergy label, severe reactions resulting from DPTs are rare. Therefore, except for patients with potentially life‐threatening index reactions or patients with positive skin tests—who were mostly not assessed in this analysis ‐, the safety of DPTs supports their performance in the diagnostic assessment of penicillin allergy.
Posttranslational modifications of the cytoskeleton
Authors: MacTaggart Brittany , Kashina Anna
Published: June 2021

The cytoskeleton plays important roles in many essential processes at the cellular and organismal levels, including cell migration and motility, cell division, and the establishment and maintenance of cell and tissue architecture. In order to facilitate these varied functions, the main cytoskeletal components—microtubules, actin filaments, and intermediate filaments—must form highly diverse intracellular arrays in different subcellular areas and cell types. The question of how this diversity is conferred has been the focus of research for decades. One key mechanism is the addition of posttranslational modifications (PTMs) to the major cytoskeletal proteins. This posttranslational addition of various chemical groups dramatically increases the complexity of the cytoskeletal proteome and helps facilitate major global and local cytoskeletal functions. Cytoskeletal proteins undergo many PTMs, most of which are not well understood. Recent technological advances in proteomics and cell biology have allowed for the in‐depth study of individual PTMs and their functions in the cytoskeleton. Here, we provide an overview of the major PTMs that occur on the main structural components of the three cytoskeletal systems—tubulin, actin, and intermediate filament proteins—and highlight the cellular function of these modifications.
The effects of adaptation to urea on feeding rates and growth in Drosophila larvae
Authors: Bitner Kathreen , Rutledge Grant A. , Kezos James N. , Mueller Laurence D.
Published: June 2021

A collection of forty populations were used to study the phenotypic adaptation of Drosophila melanogaster larvae to urea‐laced food. A long‐term goal of this research is to map genes responsible for these phenotypes. This mapping requires large numbers of populations. Thus, we studied fifteen populations subjected to direct selection for urea tolerance and five controls. In addition, we studied another twenty populations which had not been exposed to urea but were subjected to stress or demographic selection. In this study, we describe the differentiation in these population for six phenotypes: (1) larval feeding rates, (2) larval viability in urea‐laced food, (3) larval development time in urea‐laced food, (4) adult starvation times, (5) adult desiccation times, and (6) larval growth rates. No significant differences were observed for desiccation resistance. The demographically/stress‐selected populations had longer times to starvation than urea‐selected populations. The urea‐adapted populations showed elevated survival and reduced development time in urea‐laced food relative to the control and nonadapted populations. The urea‐adapted populations also showed reduced larval feeding rates relative to controls. We show that there is a strong linear relationship between feeding rates and growth rates at the same larval ages feeding rates were measured. This suggests that feeding rates are correlated with food intake and growth. This relationship between larval feeding rates, food consumption, and efficiency has been postulated to involve important trade‐offs that govern larval evolution in stressful environments. Our results support the idea that energy allocation is a central organizing theme in adaptive evolution.
Determinism of nonadditive litter mixture effect on decomposition: Role of the moisture content of litters
Authors: Gogo Sébastien , Leroy Fabien , Zocatelli Renata , Jacotot Adrien , Laggoun‐Défarge Fatima
Published: June 2021

The mechanisms behind the plant litter mixture effect on decomposition are still difficult to disentangle. To tackle this issue, we used a model that specifically addresses the role of the litter moisture content. Our model predicts that when two litters interact in terms of water flow, the difference of evaporation rate between two litters can trigger a nonadditive mixture effect on decomposition. Water flows from the wettest to the driest litter, changing the reaction rates without changing the overall litter water content. The reaction rate of the litter receiving the water increases relatively more than the decrease in the reaction rate of the litter supplying the water, leading to a synergistic effect. Such water flow can keep the microbial biomass of both litter in a water content domain suitable to maintain decomposition activity. When applied to experimental data (SphagnumrubellumandMolinia caerulealitters), the model is able to assess whether any nonadditive effect originates from water content variation alone or whether other factors have to be taken into account.
Application of neutron tomography in studying new material of Ixostrobus Raciborski from the Middle Jurassic of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Na Yuling , Sun Chunlin , Wang Hongshan , Huang Timothy , Bevitt Joseph , Li Yunfeng , Li Tao , Zhao Yingli , Li Ning
Published: June 2021

Cone‐producing gymnosperms are important elements of the Mesozoic floras. Studying their cone organizations can potentially help us understand the evolutionary trends of seed plants through time and the origin of angiosperms. In this paper, we present a new and an undetermined species of Ixostrobus Raciborski, a fossil genus representing male cones of the Czekanowskiales from the Middle Jurassic Daohugou locality in Inner Mongolia, China. The holotype specimen of the new species was studied using the neutron tomography (NT) technique. The cone shows higher neutron attenuation than the surrounding matrix. To detect the different organic compounds, a volume rendering of tomographic reconstruction with false colour spectrum of relative neutron attenuation is presented. The highest concentration of organic material is in the axis and some parts of the sacs, the rest of the cone has lower concentration, and the surrounding matrix has the lowest concentration. It seems that the remnant organic materials are regularly differentiated in different parts of the cone probably because of the preservation and different taphonomic process of different type of cells. In addition to revealing more detailed morphological features of the cone by NT reconstruction, the application of NT is potentially important for detecting remnant organic materials preserved in fossil plants.
Systematic review of major osteoporotic fracture to hip fracture incidence rate ratios worldwide: implications for Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX)-derived estimates
Authors: Chakhtoura Marlene , Dagher Hiba , Sharara Sima , Ajjour Sara , Chamoun Nariman , Cauley Jane , Mahfoud Ziyad , Boudreau Robert , El Hajj Fuleihan Ghada
Published: June 2021

The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) is the most widely used tool for fracture prediction. It provides 10-year probabilities for hip and major osteoporotic fracture (MOF). It uses country-specific hip fracture incidence and life expectancy data, and for most countries, MOF/hip fracture incidence rate ratios (IRRs) from Malmo Sweden. However, the risk of MOF varies by age, sex, and geography. The objective is to compare the MOF/hip IRRs across countries, by sex and age. This systematic review targeted observational studies of MOF and hip fractures in individuals >50 years (PROSPERO 2019 CRD42019129259). One reviewer screened potential articles. Two reviewers completed duplicate and independent data abstraction, and assessed study quality based on population representativeness, study design and duration, definition of ethnicity, and fracture characteristics. We calculated the MOF/hip IRRs (95% confidence interval) and Z-values to compare IRRs in various countries to those for Sweden. We included 27 studies, of fair to good quality in the majority, from Europe (15), US and Canada (7), Asia (3), and Australia (2). The IRRs were twofold to 10-fold higher in younger compared to older age categories, and in women compared to men, with few exceptions. Within Europe, and using Sweden as a reference, MOF/Hip IRRs in women 50–54 years from Finland, Italy, Netherlands, Denmark, and UK were significantly lower by 38% to 60%. Findings were similar in men. At older ages, MOF/Hip IRRs were consistently lower in women from European countries compared to Sweden, by 10%–40% and 11%–51%, at 75–79 years and 85–89 years, respectively. Findings were heterogenous in men and in non-European countries. In conclusion, the MOF/hip fracture IRR may vary between countries. The variability at older ages may affect FRAX prediction when country-specific fracture IRRs are not used. Further research is needed to elucidate the implication of our findings to FRAX-derived MOF estimates in various countries. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).