bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ca2+‐dependent interaction of N‐copine, a member of the two C2 domain protein family, with OS‐9, the product of a gene frequently amplified in osteosarcoma
Authors: Nakayama Takashi , Yaoi Takeshi , Kuwajima Goro , Yoshie Osamu , Sakata Tsuneaki
Published: July 2002

N‐copine is a novel two C2 domain protein that shows Ca2+‐dependent phospholipid binding and membrane association. By using yeast two‐hybrid assays, we identified OS‐9 as a protein capable of interacting with N‐copine. We further revealed that the second C2 domain of N‐copine bound with the carboxy‐terminal region of OS‐9. Their interaction in vivo was also confirmed by co‐immunoprecipitation from 293E cells co‐expressing transfected N‐copine and OS‐9. In vitro binding assays showed that this interaction was Ca2+‐dependent. By Northern blot analysis, N‐copine and OS‐9 were co‐expressed in the same regions of human brain. These results reveal that OS‐9 is a potential target of N‐copine.
Isolation of TBP‐interacting protein (TIP) from a hyperthermophilic archaeon that inhibits the binding of TBP to TATA‐DNA
Authors: Matsuda Tomoki , Morikawa Masaaki , Haruki Mitsuru , Higashibata Hiroki , Imanaka Tadayuki , Kanaya Shigenori
Published: July 2002

We have isolated TBP (TATA‐binding protein)‐interacting protein (TIP) from cell lysates of a hyperthermophilic archaeon, Pyrococcus kodakaraensis KOD1, by affinity chromatography with TBP‐agarose. Based on the internal amino acid sequence information, PCR primers were synthesized and used to amplify the gene encoding this protein (Pk‐TIP). Determination of the nucleotide sequence and characterization of the recombinant protein revealed that Pk‐TIP is composed of 224 amino acid residues (molecular weight of 25 558) and exists in a dimeric form. BIAcore analyses for the interaction between recombinant Pk‐TIP and recombinant Pk‐TBP indicated that they interact with each other with an equilibrium dissociation constant, K
D, of 1.24–1.46 μM. A gel mobility shift assay indicated that Pk‐TIP inhibited the interaction between Pk‐TBP and a TATA‐DNA. Pk‐TIP may be one of the archaeal factors which negatively regulate transcription.
The onset of atherosclerotic lesion formation in hypercholesterolemic rabbits is delayed by iron depletion
Authors: Ponraj Durairaj , Makjanic Jagoda , Thong Patricia S.P , Tan Benny K.H , Watt Frank
Published: July 2002

The theory that iron may play a significant role in atherogenesis by promoting the formation of free radicals is controversial. Previous results using the new technique of nuclear microscopy showed a seven‐fold increase in iron concentrations within newly formed atherosclerotic lesions in hypercholesterolemic rabbits compared to healthy artery tissue. In a follow‐up time sequence study described here, we show that iron accumulation occurs at the onset of lesion formation. In addition, weekly bleeding decreases the iron uptake into the artery wall and delays the onset of atherogenesis. These results provide direct evidence for a key role of iron in initiating atherogenesis.
Sequencing, expression and biochemical characterization of the Porphyromonas gingivalis pepO gene encoding a protein homologous to human endothelin‐converting enzyme
Authors: Awano Shuji , Ansai Toshihiro , Mochizuki Hajime , Yu Weixian , Tanzawa Kazuhiko , Turner Anthony J. , Takehara Tadamichi
Published: July 2002

We have determined the nucleotide sequence of the clone pAL2 obtained from Porphyromonas gingivalis 381 in the previous study [Ansai et al. (1995) Microbiology 141, 2047–2052]. The DNA sequence analysis of this fragment revealed one complete ORF and one incomplete ORF. The ORF encoded a protein (PgPepO) of 690 amino acids with a calculated molecular weight of 78 796. The deduced amino acid sequence exhibited a significant homology with human endothelin‐converting enzyme (ECE)‐1. Recombinant PgPepO was purified to homogeneity and characterized. The purified enzyme was strongly inhibited by phosphoramidon, and converted big endothelin‐1 to endothelin‐1. Furthermore, the purified PgPepO strongly cross‐reacted with a monoclonal antibody against rat ECE‐1. These results indicate that PgPepO has striking similarity to mammalian ECE in structure and function.
Biosynthetic origin of syringomycin and syringopeptin 22, toxic secondary metabolites of the phytopathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae1
Authors: Grgurina Ingeborg , Mariotti Feliciana
Published: July 2002

The biosynthesis of syringomycin (SR) and syringopeptin 22 (SP22), bioactive lipodepsipeptides of the phytopathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae, was studied by feeding 14C‐labeled precursors to chloramphenicol‐containing bacterial suspensions. The preferential sites of incorporation were determined by comparing the specific activities of the intact radiolabeled metabolites and their single structural elements, obtained by hydrolytic degradation followed by derivatization and isolation by high performance liquid chromatography. The results show that, upon feeding L‐[14C(U)]‐Thr, 35.0 and 31.0% of the SR radioactivity is retained in 2,3‐dehydro‐2‐aminobutyric acid (Dhb) and 4‐chlorothreonine (Thr(4‐Cl)), respectively. L‐[14C(U)]‐Asp labels the same sites, though less efficiently, and is also incorporated in 2,4‐diaminobutyric acid (Dab) and 3‐hydroxyaspartic acid (Asp(3‐OH)). Dhb is also labeled by Thr and Asp in SP22. These are the first data on the biosynthetic origin of the modified residues in P. syringae lipopeptides.
Positive charge intrinsic to Arg37‐Arg38 is critical for dopamine inhibition of the catalytic activity of human tyrosine hydroxylase type 1
Authors: Nakashima Akira , Hayashi Nobuhiro , Mori Keiji , Kaneko Yoko S. , Nagatsu Toshiharu , Ota Akira
Published: July 2002

Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), which converts L‐tyrosine to L‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine, is a rate‐limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of catecholamines; its activity is regulated by the feedback inhibition of the catecholamine products including dopamine. To rationalize the significant role of the N‐terminal sequence Arg37‐Arg38 of human TH type 1 (hTH1) in determining the efficiency of feedback inhibition, we produced mutants of which the positively charged Arg37‐Arg38 site was replaced by electrically neutral Gly and/or negatively charged Glu and analyzed the degree of inhibition of these mutant enzymes by dopamine. The replacement of Arg by Gly reduced the inhibitory effect of dopamine on the catalytic activity measured in the basic pH range and the replacement of Arg by Glu was enough to abolish the inhibitory effect, although these mutations brought no significant changes to the circular dichroism spectrum. The prediction of the secondary structure of N‐terminal residues 1–60 by computer software specified the location of the Arg37‐Arg38 sequence in the turn intervening between the two α‐helices (residues 16–29 and residues 41–59). These results suggest that the positive charge of the amino acid residues at positions 37 and 38 is one of the main factors that maintains the characteristic of the turn and is responsible for the enzyme inhibition by dopamine.
Laser miniconization procedure
Authors: Békássy Z.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To describe the outpatient procedure of minimal conization with free‐hand guided high power density carbon dioxide laser for simultaneous diagnosis and treatment of CIN producing a on‐peiece tissue specimen for histological examination. Material and methods: 3100 non‐pregnant patients with mild, moderate or severe dysplasia in pap smear, having colposcopically proved ectocervical lesions but without evidence of invasive carcinoma, or 85 pregnant patients with severe dysplasia in pap smear having extensive colposcopic signs of at least carcinoma in situ were admitted for this treatment. This outpatient procedure including cervical curettage is performed under local anesthesia to excise a one‐piece 5 mm (during pregnancy 7 mm) deep minicone. Results: The degree of patient discomfort, bleeding complications, postoperative pain, infection or vaginal discharge were all minimal. The procedure was fast, causing minimal thermal damage of resection lines of the minicone specimen. Histopathological examination of the non‐pregnant minicones revealed microinvasive or invasive carcinoma in 1.2%, the primary cure rate was 96.1%. During pregnancy, 13.3% malignancy was found. No unexpected sudden onset of invasive carcinoma was recorded during the 15‐year follow‐up and the cumulative risk of recurrence for all forms of CIN was 3.02%. Conclusions: The outpatient miniconization procedure, performed with a free‐hand guided 60‐W high power density CO2 laser is a reliable method for simultaneous diagnosis and treatment of CIN. Because of the paucity of complications, this procedure may also be appropriate during pregnancy.
Second trimester abortion using intravaginal misoprostol
Authors: Herabutya Y , O‐Prasertsawat P
Published: July 2002

Objective: To find the effective dose of intravaginal misoprostol to induce second trimester abortion. Methods: Intravaginal misoprostol in 200‐μg, 400‐μg and 600‐μg doses were applied at 12‐h intervals in 150 consecutive pregnancies. Results: The 48‐h successful abortion rate was 70.6%, 82% and 96%, respectively, and these rates were unaffected by parity. The mean induction to abortion interval was 45.0±41.5, 33.4±34.9 and 22.3±14.3 h, respectively. The mean dose of misoprostol required to induce abortion was 416.7 μg, 772.8 μg and 1296 μg. The rate of nausea and vomiting was 3.9%, 12% and 20%. The diarrhea occurrence rate was 0%, 6% and 22% with temperature elevation 0%, 2% and 28%, respectively. The rate of incomplete abortion was 35.3%, 28% and 22%, respectively. Conclusion: The 600‐μg dose is more effective as an abortifacient agent for second trimester abortion in terms of 48‐h success rate and the rate of incomplete abortion but with more side effects. However, the side effects were mild and did not warrant any specific treatment.
Uterine balloon therapy to treat menorrhagia
Authors: Buckshee K , Banerjee K , Bhatla H
Published: July 2002

Objective: To study the clinical efficacy, safety and acceptability of the thermal balloon endometrial ablation (TBEA) in patients with dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Methods: Thirteen patients with DUB who did not respond to medical treatment and dilatation and curettage consented to a trial of TBEA with EASYTM model of balloon catheter by Gynecare. All procedures were done under intravenous (IV) sedation and paracervical block. Patients were mostly discharged within 48 h. Follow‐up of 2–19 months is reported. Transvaginal ultrasound and hysteroscopy were performed in six patients after 6 months of TBEA. Results: Twelve patients (92.3%) reported a significant reduction in bleeding. Two patients (15.4%) experienced amenorrhea. Only two patients (15.4%) underwent subsequent hysterectomy, one for persistent menorrhagia and the other for severe pelvic pain. In successful patients of TBEA, transvaginal ultrasonography revealed marked reduction in endometrial thickness and no endometrium was visible in one patient who had developed amenorrhea. In successful cases follow‐up hysteroscopy revealed scarring in more than two‐thirds of the endometrium. Conclusions: Thermal balloon endometrial ablation is a safe, simple, effective, easy and minimally invasive procedure which can be done under IV sedation and paracervical block in an office setting. It has several advantages over hysterectomy, including preservation of the uterus, avoidance of surgical incision and potential to perform on an outpatient basis. It is a good alternative to hysteroscopic endometrial ablation with a comparable success rate with minimal risk and no limiting factors except the cost of the balloons. However, large scale randomized controlled studies are needed with TBEA and other endometrial ablation procedures.
The mitogen‐activated protein kinase p38 pathway is conserved in metazoans: Cloning and activation of p38 of the SAPK2 subfamily from the sponge Suberites domuncula*
Authors: Böhm Markus , Schröder Heinz C. , Müller Isabel M. , Müller Werner E.G. , Gamulin Vera
Published: July 2002

Summary— Our recent data suggest that during auto‐ and allograft recognition in sponges (Porifera), cytokines are differentially expressed. Since the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal transduction modulates the synthesis and release of cytokines, we intended to identify one key molecule of this pathway. Therefore, a cDNA from the marine sponge Suberites domuncula encoding the MAPK was isolated and analyzed. Its encoded protein is 366 amino acids long (calculated Mr 42 209), has a TGY dual phosphorylation motif in protein kinase subdomain VIII and displays highest overall similarity to the mammalian p38 stress activated protein kinase (SAPK2), one subfamily of MAPKs. The sponge protein was therefore termed p38_SD. The overall homology (identity and similarity) between p38_SD and human p38α (CSBP2) kinase is 82%. One feature of the sponge kinase is the absence of threonine at position 106. In human p38α MAPK this residue is involved in the interaction with the specific pyridinyl‐imidazole inhibitor; T106 is replaced in p38_SD by methionine. Inhibition studies with the respective inhibitor SB 203580 showed that it had no effect on the phosphorylation of the p38 substrate myelin basic protein. A stress responsive kinase Krs_SD similar to mammalian Ste20 kinases, upstream regulators of p38, had already previously been found in S. domuncula. The S. domuncula p38 MAPK is phosphorylated after treatment of the animal in hypertonic medium. In contrast, exposure of cells to hydrogen peroxide, heat shock and ultraviolet light does not cause any phosphorylation of p38. It is concluded that sponges, the oldest and most simple multicellular animals, utilize the conserved p38 MAPK signaling pathway, known to be involved in stress and immune (inflammatory) responses in higher animals.
Redistribution and increased specificity of GABAB receptors during development of the rostral nucleus of the solitary tract
Authors: Heck Wendy L. , Renehan William E. , Schweitzer Laura
Published: July 2002

Recent results show that there is an abundance of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) before GABAergic synapses have formed in the gustatory zone of the nucleus of the solitary tract. These results suggest that a non‐synaptic, developmental function may exist for GABA prior to synaptogenesis. However, GABA exerts its physiological effect via its receptors, the development of which is a largely unknown process. The developmental expression of one of the GABA receptors in the young nucleus of the solitary tract is the focus of this study. The development of GABAB receptors was investigated by light and electron microscopy. The results suggest that before the development of GABAergic synapses, GABAB receptors are diffusely distributed. When GABAergic synapses form, the receptors become clustered. Quantitative postembedding immunohistochemical studies at the electron microscopic level show that extrasynaptic labeling for GABAB receptors decreases during development, but synaptic labeling increases. Increased specificity of neurotransmitter receptors at synapses has been shown in other systems during development, including other central nervous system structures, but this may be the first demonstration of the phenomenon using quantitative electron microscopy.
Beneficial effect of the addition of the 5-HT 2A/2C and α2 antagonist mianserin to ongoing haloperidol treatment in drug-resistant chronically hospitalized schizophrenic patients
Authors: Grinshpoon A. , Valevski A. , Moskowitz M. , Weizman A.
Published: July 2002

summary

Atypical neuroleptics that block serotonin 2A (5-HT 2A) and dopamine 2 (D2) receptors have been shown to possess efficacious antipsychotic activity. We assessed the efficacy of the addition of the 5-HT 2A/2C and α2 antagonist mianserin to ongoing haloperidol treatment in chronically hospitalized (> 10 years) drug-resistant schizophrenic patients (N = 12). The patients were assessed at baseline and every three months for one year with the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale and the Clinical Global Impression. Results showed a significant (but < 10%) improvement in the core symptoms of schizophrenia; however, only the reduction (by 43%) in anxiety was clinically relevant (P < 0.0001). The beneficial effect of mianserin may be related to the combined blockade of 5-HT 2A and histamine (H1) receptors.
An integrated model for financial planning
Authors: Chieffe Natalie , Rakes Ganas K.
Published: July 2002

Financial planning is a broad subject that requires an integrating overview. The Model for Financial Planning incorporates the time and the expected nature of financial events. The categories of the model include 1) money management issues that the individual faces as short-term expected events, 2) issues of meeting unexpected financial events through an emergency fund and insurance, 3) investing to reach the individual’s intermediate and long-term goals, 4) transference planning and other long-term issues whose time frame is unknown. The model has applications for “do it yourself” investors, financial planners, and students. The framework successfully integrates the broad range of topics typically covered in financial planning and personal finance courses. © 1999 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.
The Heart Failure Journal Club: a review of publications on heart failure in the American Journal of Cardiology
Authors: Thackray Simon
Published: July 2002

The following review contains a bibliography of articles, relevant to heart failure, from the American Journal of Cardiology during 1999. Articles are grouped by topic, with a summary of each topic group. Articles of particular interest have been starred*, and seminal papers marked out with two stars**, each with individual summaries. From 928 original papers reviewed, 79 (8.51%) have heart failure as the main focus of the article and are presented below. There are a further nine reviews mainly taken from the ‘special symposia’ sections. Forty original articles (50.6%) are from Europe, 28 (35.4%) are from the US, with 8 (10.1%) from Japan and one each from Australia, South Africa and Hong‐Kong. One quarter of all original papers study the application of imaging modalities to left ventricular function or metabolism, with the remainder covering extremely diverse topics, reflecting the truly multi‐system pathology of heart failure.
MIDWIFERY IN NORTHERN BELIZE
Authors: Boyer Diane B. , Klima Carrie , Jennrich Judith
Published: July 2002

During several volunteer experiences in the Corozal District in Northern Belize, the authors worked with and interviewed traditional midwives, midwife educators, administrators, and professional midwives, who practice in public health clinics, rural health outposts, and a government hospital. One interview with a traditional midwife from a rural Mayan village, garnered interesting information about her 63‐year practice, which is compared with the practice of professional midwives. Issues important to midwifery and health care in Belize are discussed. The interviews and the authors' own experiences reveal changing birthing practices, as well as the continued importance of midwives in the care of childbearing women in Northern Belize.
Nitric Oxide to Fight Viral Infections
Authors: Lisi Fabio , Zelikin Alexander N. , Chandrawati Rona
Published: February 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) that has quickly and deeply affected the world, with over 60 million confirmed cases. There has been a great effort worldwide to contain the virus and to search for an effective treatment for patients who become critically ill with COVID‐19. A promising therapeutic compound currently undergoing clinical trials for COVID‐19 is nitric oxide (NO), which is a free radical that has been previously reported to inhibit the replication of several DNA and RNA viruses, including coronaviruses. Although NO has potent antiviral activity, it has a complex role in the immunological host responses to viral infections, i.e., it can be essential for pathogen control or detrimental for the host, depending on its concentration and the type of virus. In this Essay, the antiviral role of NO against SARS‐CoV, SARS‐CoV‐2, and other human viruses is highlighted, current development of NO‐based therapies used in the clinic is summarized, existing challenges are discussed and possible further developments of NO to fight viral infections are suggested.
Medical students are accurate in interpreting the presence of pathologic interstitial edema on focused lung ultrasound compared to expert reviewers
Authors: Risler Zachary , Au Arthur , Sanjeevan Irina , Chang Anna Marie , Davis Elizabeth , Nauheim Jennifer , Sibeck Lauren , Rankin Nicholas , Fields Jason M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Over the past two decades, studies have demonstrated that lung ultrasound is useful in diagnosing alveolar interstitial syndrome, which is seen in patients with decompensated congestive heart failure (CHF).

Methods

We studied medical students performing lung ultrasound on patients admitted to the hospital with a presumed diagnosis of decompensated CHF in a prospective convenience observation study. Two ultrasound fellowship–trained emergency medicine attendings independently reviewed the lung ultrasounds at a later date, blinded to the students’ interpretation and other clinical information, to confirm ultrasound findings and assess for inter‐rater reliability of the lung ultrasound using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results

Thirty‐six patients were enrolled in the study resulting in 653 unique lung zones scanned. The zones were imaged and classified as being normal (B‐lines < 3) or pathologic (B‐lines ≥ 3). The novice scanners’ interpretation was compared to expert reviews using ICCs. The ICC was 0.88, with a 95% confidence interval of 0.87 to 0.90, for all lung zones scanned.

Conclusion

There was almost perfect agreement between novice practitioners and experts when determining the presence of pathologic B‐lines in individual patients.
Simulation‐based emergency medicine education in the era of physical distancing
Authors: Nadir Nur‐Ain , Kim Jane , Cassara Michael , Hrdy Michael , Zaveri Pavan , Wong Ambrose H. , Ray Jessica , Strother Christopher , Falk Michael
Published: February 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic posed significant challenges to traditional simulation education. Because simulation is considered best practice for competency‐based education, emergency medicine (EM) residencies adapted and innovated to accommodate to the new pandemic normal. Our objectives were to identify the impact of the pandemic on EM residency simulation training, to identify unique simulation adaptations and innovations implemented during the pandemic, and to analyze successes and failures through existing educational frameworks to offer guidance on the use of simulation in the COVID‐19 era.

Methods

The Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM)’s Simulation Academy formed the SimCOVID task force to examine the impact of COVID‐19 on simulation didactics. A mixed‐methods approach was employed. A literature search was conducted on the subject and used to develop an exploratory survey that was distributed on the Simulation Academy Listserv. The results were subjected to thematic analysis and examined through existing educational frameworks to better understand successes and failures and then used to generate suggestions on the use of simulation in the COVID‐19 era.

Results

Thirty programs responded to the survey. Strategies reported included adaptations to virtual teleconferencing and small‐group in situ training with a focus on procedural training and COVID‐19 preparedness. Successful continuation or relaunching of simulation programs was predicated on several factors including willingness for curricular pivots through rapid iterative prototyping, embracing teleconferencing software, technical know‐how, and organizational and human capacity. In specific instances the use of in situ simulation for COVID‐19 preparedness established the view of simulation as a “value add” to the organization.

Conclusions

Whereas simulation educator's responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic can be better appreciated through the lens of iterative curricular prototyping, their successes and failures depended on existing expertise in technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge. That knowledge needed to exist and synergize within a system that had the human and organizational capacity to prioritize and invest in strategies to respond to the rapidly evolving crisis in a proactive manner. Going forward, administrators and educators will need to advocate for continued investment in human and organizational capacity to support simulation‐based efforts for the evolving clinical and educational landscape.
Hydraulic properties of the porous‐fiber module and its effects on infiltration and runoff
Authors: Lv Zhenyu , Qin Tianling , Wang Yu , Liu Shanshan , Nie Hanjiang , Wang Jianwei
Published: February 2021

The porous‐fiber module (PFM) composed of modified hydrophilic rock wool is an advanced product used for rainfall regulation. However, the hydraulic properties of the PFM and the effects of PFM embedding on key water cycle processes are unclear. In this study, to determine the water absorption and desorption properties of the PFM, a wetting front experiment was conducted in a soil box, comprehensively considering several factors, including two densities of PFM, three PFM cube side lengths, and three initial soil water contents. Furthermore, simulated rainfall experiments were conducted with three types of rainfall intensities to quantify the impacts of PFM embedding with two different patterns on soil infiltration and runoff. The results show that the maximum water absorption volume of each PFM was >93%, with that of the PFM with high density 1.75% higher than that of the low‐density PFM. For a fully saturated PFM in soil, the horizontal and vertical wetting front advance rates gradually decreased and exhibited a power function relationship with time. The results of the simulated rainfall experiments indicate that a PFM cube embedded in the soil increased the infiltration rate in the later period of rainfall events, while a PFM slice separating the upper and lower soil layers showed an opposite trend. Both PFM embedding patterns effectively increased the average cumulative infiltration of the soil by 0.5–4.5% compared with that of the control groups. Moreover, they delayed the runoff time by 5–35 min and reduced the volume of the surface runoff by 5–100% under various rainfall intensities.
Lead adsorption in a serpentine millichannel‐based packed‐bed device: Effect of hydrodynamics and mixing characteristics
Authors: Mondal Somen , Maurya Babban Lal , Majumder Subrata Kumar
Published: February 2021

The present study depicts the hydrodynamics and the mixing characteristics in a millichannel‐based serpentine fixed‐bed device to attain the particular demands of the miniature adsorption devices' fabrication. Residence time distribution analyses were accomplished to analyze the velocity distribution inside the packed bed geometry. The effects of operating variables on the system hydrodynamics and mixing and their impact on the lead adsorption characteristics were enunciated. New correlations were proposed for the frictional resistance and axial dispersion of the fluid. The parametric effects on the lead ions [Pb(II)] adsorption were studied in the same millichannel geometry packed with the graphene oxide coated glass beads. The kinetics of the adsorptive removal process is assessed by the Thomas model and the Yoon–Nelson model. The regeneration study of the said millichannel‐based fixed‐bed device was also executed.
Effect of turbulence in micro‐reactors on ultrafast competitive reactions in Cu‐Zn co‐precipitation
Authors: Jiang Xin , Chen Shuaishuai , Chen Xinchao , Ling Chen , Lu Jiangang
Published: February 2021

The enhancement of turbulence was considered to be able to bring about better mixing and more uniform distribution of concentration generally, but its influence on ultrafast competitive reactions is an open question. Cu‐Zn co‐precipitation was carried out in three types of micro‐reactors and the turbulent intensity was regulated by changing flow rate and ultrasound power, respectively. Energy‐dispersive spectrometer of precipitates and characteristic aging time indicate the best uniformity of Cu‐Zn distribution in precipitates appears at moderate turbulent intensity. The numerical simulation shows the uniformities of precipitation both in time and in space are impacted by mixing simultaneously but with opposite direction, resulting in the appearance of maximum. The unevenness of Cu‐Zn distribution caused by inconsistent reaction rates along the time will be erased during subsequent structural evolution, while that caused by diverse reaction rates at various positions can survive and further affect the structure and performance of catalysts.
Proteomic analysis of TGFβ‐induced A549 secretome identifies putative regulators of epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Sharma Akshay , Upadhyay Vishal , Sarkar Monika , Mishra Mukul , Thacker Gatha , Trivedi Arun Kumar
Published: February 2021

Imparting epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) during cellular transformation, a major driving force behind tumor progression, is one of the notorious oncogenic activities of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ); however, the secretary factors released during TGFβ‐induced EMT that may have role in potentiating EMT and tumor progression are poorly known. This study was undertaken to identify such secreted protein factors from TGFβ‐induced A549 cells cultured in serum‐free chemically defined medium (FreestyleTM) using Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization‐Time of flight/Time of flight (MALDI‐TOF/TOF) mass spectrometry. We identified some of the potential factors such as ESR, ANXA2, ALDH1A, TGFβ‐induced protein ig‐h3, and PAI‐1 that were not only secreted but some were also elevated in TGFβ‐induced A549 cells. Interestingly, these factors are widely reported to play crucial role in EMT induction and progression, which not only validates our findings but also opens avenues for further investigation, if upon secretion they act exogenously through certain receptors to potentiate cellular signaling involved in EMT induction and tumor progression.
Effects of short‐term cognitive‐coping therapy on resting‐state brain function in obsessive‐compulsive disorder
Authors: Ma Jian‐Dong , Wang Chang‐Hong , Huang Ping , Wang Xunan , Shi Li‐Jing , Li Heng‐Fen , Sang De‐En , Kou Shao‐Jie , Li Zhi‐Rong , Zhao Hong‐Zeng , Lian Hong‐Kai , Hu Xian‐Zhang
Published: February 2021

Background

Obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) tends to be treatment refractory. Recently, cognitive‐coping therapy (CCT) for OCD is reported to be an efficacious psychotherapy. However, the underlying neurophysiological mechanism remains unknown. Here, the effects of CCT on OCD and the resting‐state brain function were investigated.

Methods

Fifty‐nine OCD patients underwent CCT, pharmacotherapy plus CCT (pCCT), or pharmacotherapy. Before and after a 4‐week treatment, Yale‐Brown obsessive‐compulsive scale (Y‐BOCS) was evaluated and resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) was scanned.

Results

Compared with the baseline, significant reduction of Y‐BOCS scores was found after four‐week treatment (p < .001) in groups of CCT and pCCT, not in pharmacotherapy. Post‐treatment Y‐BOCS scores of CCT group and pCCT group were not different, but significantly lower than that of pharmacotherapy group (p < .001). Compared with pretreatment, two clusters of brain regions with significant change in amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation (ALFF) were obtained in those who treated with CCT and pCCT, but not in those who received pharmacotherapy. The ALFF in cluster 1 (insula, putamen, and postcentral gyrus in left cerebrum) was decreased, while the ALFF in cluster 2 (occipital medial gyrus, occipital inferior gyrus, and lingual gyrus in right hemisphere) was increased after treatment (correctedp < .05). The changes of ALFF were correlated with the reduction of Y‐BOCS score and were greater in remission than in nonremission. The reduction of the fear of negative events was correlated to the changes of ALFF of clusters and the reduction of Y‐BOCS score.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of CCT for OCD was related to the alteration of resting‐state brain function—the brain plasticity.

Trial Registration

ChiCTR‐IPC‐15005969.
Linguistically complex recognition prompts in pre‐recorded cross‐examinations
Authors: Stevens Laura M. , Henderson Hayden M. , Lamb Michael E.
Published: February 2021

This study examined the effects of pre‐trial preparation and pre‐recorded cross‐examinations on the linguistic complexity of recognition prompts (i.e., option‐posing or suggestive questions) used when questioning child victims in English criminal courts. The study also compared the linguistic complexity of recognition prompts that did and did not contain suggestive content. Analyses compared 43 cases that involved pre‐recorded cross‐examinations with pre‐trial preparation and 44 cases that did not, which occurred between 2012 and 2016. Cases utilizing the “special measures” contained fewer linguistically complex prompts with and without suggestive content than did their counterparts, demonstrating the benefits of those special measures. Overall, linguistically complex recognition prompts were more likely to contain suggestive content than other recognition prompts. However, linguistically complex prompts with and without suggestive content were still frequently used despite the special measures, demonstrating the need for further professional training to improve the quality of children's evidence.
Differential immune signatures in the tumor microenvironment are associated with colon cancer racial disparities
Authors: Curran Thomas , Sun Zequn , Gerry Brielle , Findlay Victoria J. , Wallace Kristin , Li Zihai , Paulos Chrystal , Ford Marvella , Rubinstein Mark P. , Chung Dongjun , Camp E. Ramsay
Published: February 2021

Background

Disparities in colon cancer (CC) outcomes may be due to a more aggressive phenotype in African American patients in the setting of a decreased tumor immunity, though the precise mechanism for this result has not been well elucidated. To explore the molecular factors underlying CC disparities, we compared the immunogenomic signatures of CC from African American and European American patients.

Methods

We identified all CC patients from the publicly available Cancer Genome Atlas for whom race and survival data are available. Immunophenotype signatures were established for African American and European American patients. Comparisons were made regarding survival and a multivariable linear regression model was created to determine the association of immune cellular components with race. Differential gene expression was also assessed.

Results

Of the 254 patients identified, 58 (23%) were African American and 196 (77%) were European American. African American patients had a decreased progression free survival (p = 0.04). Tumors from African American patients displayed a reduced fraction of macrophages and CD8+T cells and an increased fraction of B cells compared with tumors from European Americans. Differences persisted when controlling for sex, age, and disease stage. Immunostimulatory and immunoinhibitory gene profiles including major histocompatibility complex expression differed by race.

Conclusions

Differences in the tumor immune microenvironment of African American as compared to European American CC specimens may play a role in the survival differences between the groups. These differences may provide targeted therapeutic opportunities.
Monocarboxylate transporter 1 promotes proliferation and invasion of renal cancer cells by mediating acetate transport
Authors: Li Minghua , Long Xia , Wan Huijuan , Yin Meijun , Yang Bo , Zhang Fangting , Guo Xiaoqiang
Published: February 2021

One hallmark of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is metabolic reprogramming, which involves elevation of glycolysis and upregulation of lipid metabolism. However, the mechanism of metabolic reprogramming is incompletely understood. Monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) promotes transport for lactate and pyruvate, which are crucial for cell metabolism. The aim of present study was to investigate the function of MCT1 on RCC development and its mechanism on metabolic reprogramming. The results showed that MCT1 messenger RNA and protein levels significantly increased in cancer tissues of ccRCC compared to normal tissue. MCT1 was further found to mainly located in the cell membrane of RCC. The knockdown of MCT1 by RNAi significantly inhibited proliferation and migration of 786‐O and ACHN cells. MCT1 also induced the expressions of proliferation marker Ki‐67 and invasion marker SNAI1. Moreover, we also showed that acetate treatment could upregulate the expression of MCT1, but not other MCT isoforms. On the other hand, MCT1 was involved in acetate transport and intracellular histone acetylation. In summary, this study revealed that MCT1 is abnormally high in ccRCC and promotes cancer development. The regulatory effect of MCT1 on cell proliferation and invasion maybe mediated by acetate transport.
Vascular complications associated withintraaorticballoon pump supported percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)and clinical outcomes from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society NationalPCIDatabase
Authors: Kinnaird Tim , Anderson Richard , Gallagher Sean , Sharp Andrew S. P. , Farooq Vasim , Ludman Peter , Copt Samuel , Curzen Nicholas , Sirker Alex , Nolan Jim , Mamas Mamas
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The impact of a vascular complication (VC) in the setting of intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) supported PCI on clinical outcomes is unclear.

Methods

Using data from the BCIS National PCI Database, multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of a VC. Propensity scoring was used to quantify the association between a VC and outcomes.

Results

Between 2007 and 2014, 9,970 PCIs in England and Wales were supported by IABP (1.6% of total PCI), with 224 femoral VCs (2.3%). Annualized rates of a VC reduced as the use of radial access for PCI increased. The independent predictors of a VC included a procedural complication (odds ratio [OR] 2.9,p < .001), female sex (OR 2.3,p < .001), PCI for stable angina (OR 3.47,p = .028), and use of a glycoprotein inhibitor (OR 1.46 [1.1:2.5],p = .04), with a lower likelihood of a VC when radial access was used for PCI (OR 0.48,p = .008). A VC was associated with a higher likelihood of transfusion (OR 5.7 [3.5:9.2],p < .0001), acute kidney injury (OR 2.6 [1.2:6.1],p = .027), and periprocedural MI (OR 3.2 [1.5:6.7],p = .002) but not with adjusted mortality at discharge (OR 1.2 [0.8:1.7],p = .394) or 12‐months (OR 1.1 [0.76:1.56],p = .639). In sensitivity analyses, there was a trend towards higher mortality in patients experiencing a VC who underwent PCI for stable angina (OR 4.1 [1.0:16.4],pvalue for interaction .069).

Discussion and Conclusions

Although in‐hospital morbidity was observed to be adversely affected by occurrence of a VC during IABP‐supported PCI, in‐hospital and 1‐year survival were similar between groups.
Molybdenum Isomorphously Substituted Decatungstates as Robust and Renewable Photocatalysts for Visible Light‐Driven Oxidation of Hydrocarbons by Molecular Oxygen
Authors: Yang Bo , Zhang Huanhuan , Wan Feifei , Deng Youer , Jiang Dabo , Zhang Qiao , Liu Yachun , Zhang Chao , Fu Zaihui
Published: February 2021

This article reveals that molybdenum (Mo) heteroatoms isomorphously substituted decatungstates (Mo–DTs) can be conveniently synthesized via copolymerization of tungstate and molybdate in acidic solution. A series of characterizations support that the incorporated Mo heteroatoms play crucial roles in improving the redox capacity and visible light harvesting efficiency of Mo–DTs, especially the photo‐excited probability and lifetimes, so that the novel Mo–DTs exhibit a remarkably enhanced photo‐catalytic efficiency in the visible‐light‐triggered selective oxidation of inert hydrocarbons by O2 under mild conditions. In the photo‐oxidation of cyclohexane under continuous visible light irradiation for 30 h, the best 1 % Mo–DT can achieve 44.8 % conversion and 89.7 % cyclohexanone selectivity in the presence of 2 M HCl, and the regenerated catalyst after simple hydrothermal treatment has excellent reusability. This is the first successful example of incorporating Mo atoms into the skeleton of non‐lacunary DTs, which has special significance for expanding the application of DTs in visible‐light‐catalysis.
Mass Transfer Prediction in a Mechanically Stirred Gas‐Liquid Reactor Containing Solid Particles
Authors: Kracík Tomáš , Moucha Tomáš , Petříček Radim , Tamaškovičová Daniela
Published: February 2021

Microorganisms are used in various fermentation processes for the production of biochemicals and food. These types of processes take place predominantly in mechanically agitated vessels. An important transport characteristic is the volumetric mass transfer coefficient kLa. Many correlations are available in the literature to estimate parameters in a gas‐liquid system; however, three‐phase systems are not sufficiently described. The experiments were carried out under laboratory conditions in a single‐impeller mechanically agitated vessel with an internal diameter of 0.29 m. The solid phase was either cellulose, with two different particle sizes, or glass beads. An updated correlation is proposed that could be adopted in the design and scale‐up of agitated devices operating in the presence of solid particles.
Heterostructured Ternary In2O3−Ag−TiO2 Nanotube Arrays for Simulated Sunlight‐Driven Photoelectrocatalytic Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Zhang Zeyang , Fu Jiangjian , Cai Jingsheng , Lin Sheng , Chen Yinhuan , Sun Lan , Lai Yuekun , Hu Yanling , Shen Fei , Lin Changjian
Published: February 2021

The ternary In2O3−Ag−TiO2 composites based on anatase TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNTs) were synthesized to extend the light responsive region, enhance the visible light absorption, reduce the recombination rate of charge carriers and promote the efficiency of water splitting for H2 evolution. Highly ordered TNTs were first prepared by electrochemical anodization of Ti sheets. Ag nanoparticles with a diameter of about 20 nm were then uniformly deposited inside and on the orifice of the TNTs. In2O3 nanoparticles synthesized through a solvent‐thermal method were subsequently modified on the Ag−TNTs using an ultrasound‐assisted electrophoresis method. In2O3−Ag−TNTs composites exhibited enhanced visible light absorption and photocurrent when compared to binary Ag−TNTs and In2O3−TNTs. As a result, the optimal hydrogen generation rate using the In2O3−Ag−TNTs composite under visible light irradiation was 1.92 μmol cm−2 h−1, 5 times higher than that of the pure TNTs.
Realizing Efficient Overall Water Splitting by Tuning the Cobalt Content in Self‐Supported Nix−Coy−P Microarrays
Authors: Liu Xiong Xiong , He Qian , Xiao Shuhao , Li Xinran , Chang Le , Xiang Yong , Hu Ke , Niu Xiaobin , Wu Rui , Chen Jun Song
Published: February 2021

Transition‐metal phosphides have been identified as a group of promising catalysts, especially for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, their practical application is still hindered by the suboptimal activity and tedious preparation. In this work, self‐supported transition‐metal phosphide microarrays have been synthesized on Ni foam via electrodeposition followed by a low‐temperature gaseous phosphorization. We discover that Ni2P or Nix−Coy−P can be obtained with tunable composition. Among the obtained phosphides with different Ni and Co contents, Ni1−Co1−P exhibits a low overpotential of only 90 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for HER in 1 M KOH, whereas that of Ni2P is as high as 137 mV. Furthermore, Ni1‐Co1‐P also demonstrates a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of only 292 mV for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). An overall water splitting device has been assembled with two Ni1−Co1−P electrodes, and it displays an excellent performance at 1.65 V for a current density of 20 mA cm−2 with a good stability up to 30 h. The density functional theory calculation results suggest that by incorporating Co into the phosphide, the surface electronic structure of Ni1‐Co1‐P has been optimized, showing a much smaller Gibbs free energy change of absorbed intermediates during the HER and OER than Ni2P. Considering the ease in fabrication and the superior performance, this material displays good potential for industrial applications at a large scale.
Impact of Negative Charge Delocalization on the Properties of Solid Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Zhang Heng , Song Ziyu , Yuan Weimin , Feng Wenfang , Nie Jin , Armand Michel , Huang Xuejie , Zhou Zhibin
Published: February 2021

The nature of salt anion is of particular relevance in determining the features of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs). Here, lithium salt containing an extremely delocalized anion (Li[CF3SO(=NSO2CF3)2], LisTFSI) is introduced into SPEs utilizing poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) as a matrix, aiming to elucidate the role of negative charge delocalization on the properties of SPEs. In comparison with the reference Li[N(SO2CF3)2] (LiTFSI)/PEO electrolyte, LisTFSI/PEO shows higher lithium‐ion transference number and lithium‐ion‐only conductivity (i. e., the ionic conductivity contributed only by the lithium ions), owing to the improved flexibility and super‐delocalized negative charge of the −SO2N(−)−SO(=NSO2CF3)− structure in sTFSI− (vs. TFSI−). Moreover, the interphases of lithium metal electrode|SPE formed in LisTFSI/PEO show superior stability upon storage. These interesting properties of the LisTFSI/PEO system suggest that extending negative charge delocalization in sulfonimide anions is a powerful tool to improve the properties of SPEs.
Gold(I)‐Catalyzed [8+2]‐Cycloaddition of 8‐Aryl‐8‐azaheptafulvenes with Allenamides and Ynamides: Regioselective Synthesis of Dihydrocycloheptapyrrole Derivatives
Authors: Suárez‐Rodríguez Tatiana , Suárez‐Sobrino Ángel L. , Ballesteros Alfredo
Published: February 2021

Gold(I)‐catalyzed higher‐order [8+2] cycloadditions of 8‐aryl‐8‐azaheptafulvenes 1 with allenamides 2 and ynamides 3 were studied. 1,8‐Dihydrocycloheptapyrroles 4 were achieved by a regioselective [8+2] cycloaddition of azaheptafulvenes 1 and allenamides 2 in the presence of (2,4‐ditBuC6H3O)3PAuNTf2 as catalyst. Besides, ynamides 3 and 8‐aryl‐8‐azaheptafulvenes 1, undergo a regioselective [8+2] cycloaddition, to give 2‐amido‐1,4‐dihydrocycloheptapyrroles 7 in the presence of JohnPhosAuNTf2 as catalyst. Both reactions take place with good yields and with a variety of substituents. A plausible mechanism hypothesis suggests a nucleophilic attack of the 8‐azaheptafulvene to the gold activated electron rich allene or alkyne moieties of the allenamide and ynamide, respectively.
Construction of Helical Structures with Multiple Fused Anthracenes: Structures and Properties of Long Expanded Helicenes
Authors: Fujise Kei , Tsurumaki Eiji , Wakamatsu Kan , Toyota Shinji
Published: February 2021

Invited for the cover of this issue is Shinji Toyota and co‐workers at Tokyo Institute of Technology and Okayama University of Science. The image depicts a spirally rising dragon to represent the helical molecular structures in the manuscript. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202004720.