bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Downregulation of Endocardial Nitric Oxide Synthase Expression and Nitric Oxide Production in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Cai Hua , Li Zongming , Goette Andreas , Mera Fernando , Honeycutt Clegg , Feterik Kristian , Wilcox Josiah N. , Dudley Samuel C. , Harrison David G. , Langberg Jonathan J.
Published: November 2002

Background—

In the arterial endothelium, laminar flow and cyclical stretch induce expression of NO synthase (NOS). We hypothesized that atrial fibrillation (AF) causes a downregulation of atrial endocardial NOS expression and NO
·
production. Because NO
·
has antithrombotic properties, this may contribute to thromboembolism in AF.

Methods and Results—

In pigs, AF was produced with rapid atrial pacing at 600 bpm for 1 week, whereas controls had atrial pacing at 100 bpm. All animals had catheter ablation of the AV junction and ventricular pacing at 100 bpm. NO
·
production from freshly isolated tissue was measured by a NO
·
-specific microelectrode. Left atrial basal and stimulated NO
·
production was decreased in AF by 73% and 71% (
P
<0.01). Endocardial NOS expression, determined by Western analysis, was also significantly decreased by 46%. Expression of the prothombotic protein plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) is known to be regulated by NO
·
and was increased in the left atrium by 1.8-fold in AF (
P
<0.05). NO
·
concentration was decreased in the left atrial appendage, although NOS expression was not affected. Neither NOS concentration, NO
·
levels, nor PAI-1 expression were altered in the aortas or right atria of animals with AF.

Conclusions—

AF is associated with a marked decrease in endocardial NOS expression and NO
·
bioavailability and an increase in PAI-1 expression in the left atrium. These data suggest that organized atrial contraction is needed to maintain normal endocardial expression of NOS. It is likely that loss of this antithrombotic enzyme contributes to the thromboembolic phenomena commonly observed in AF.
Increased Carotid Wall Elastic Modulus and Fibronectin in Aldosterone-Salt–Treated Rats
Authors: Lacolley Patrick , Labat Carlos , Pujol Alex , Delcayre Claude , Benetos Athanase , Safar Michel
Published: November 2002

Background—

Previous studies have demonstrated the development of cardiac fibrosis in aldosterone (Aldo)–salt hypertensive rats. Our aim was to determine the effects of Aldo and the Aldo receptor antagonist eplerenone (Epl) on in vivo mechanical properties of the carotid artery using echo-tracking system.

Methods and Results—

Aldo was administered (1 μg/h) in uninephrectomized Sprague-Dawley rats (SD) receiving a high-salt diet from 8 to 12 weeks of age. Uninephrectomized control SD rats received a normal salt diet without Aldo. Three groups of Aldo-salt rats were treated with 1, 10, or 30 mg/kg
−1
· d
−1
of Epl by gavage. Elasticity was measured by elastic modulus (Einc)-wall stress curves using medial cross-sectional area (MCSA). The structure of the arterial wall was analyzed by histomorphometry (elastin and collagen), immunohistochemistry (EIIIA fibronectin, Fn), and Northern blot (collagens I and III). Aldo produced increased systolic arterial pressure, pulse pressure, Einc, MCSA, and EIIIA Fn with no change in wall stress or elastin and collagen densities compared with controls without Aldo. No differences in collagen mRNA levels were detected between groups. Epl blunted the increase in pulse pressure in Aldo rats and normalized Einc-wall stress curves, MCSA, and EIIIA Fn. These effects were dose dependent and not accompanied by a reduction in wall stress.

Conclusions—

Aldo is able to increase arterial stiffness associated with Fn accumulation, independently of wall stress. The preventive effects of Epl suggest a direct role for mineralocorticoid receptors in mechanical and structural alterations of large vessels in rat hyperaldosteronism.
Role of Nondiagnostic Exercise-Induced ST-Segment Abnormalities in Predicting Future Coronary Events in Asymptomatic Volunteers
Authors: Rywik Tomasz M. , O’Connor Frances C. , Gittings Neil S. , Wright Jeanette G. , Khan Akbar A. , Fleg Jerome L.
Published: November 2002

Background—

Whether exercise-induced ST-segment depression <1 mm is an independent predictor of future coronary events (CEs) in asymptomatic subjects is unknown.

Methods and Results—

We performed maximal treadmill exercise tests on 1083 volunteers from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging who were free from clinical coronary heart disease. Exercise ST-segment changes were stratified by Minnesota code criteria: 11:1 (n=213), flat or downsloping ST depression ≥1 mm; 11:2 (n=66), flat or downsloping ST depression ≥0.5 mm and <1 mm; 11:4 (n=124), ST-J depression ≥1 mm with slowly rising ST segments; and 11:5 (n=69), minor ST depression (<0.5 mm) before exercise that worsened to flat or downsloping ST depression ≥1 mm during or after exercise. Risk of CE was compared with subjects with normal exercise ECG (n=611). Over a mean follow-up of 7.9 years, 76 subjects developed CEs (angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, or coronary death). On univariate analysis, age (relative risk [RR]=1.07/year,
P
<0.0001), male sex (RR=1.98,
P
=0.009), plasma cholesterol (RR=1.02/mg per dL,
P
<0.0001), hypertension (RR=2.23,
P
=0.002), duration of exercise (RR=0.71/min,
P
=0.0001), and systolic blood pressure at peak effort (RR=1.02/mm Hg,
P
=0.002) were associated with CE. By Cox proportional hazards analysis, age (RR=1.06/year,
P
<0.0001), male sex (RR=2.76,
P
=0.0002), plasma cholesterol (RR=1.02 per 1 mg/dL,
P
<0.0001), duration of exercise (RR=0.87/min,
P
=0.004), and ST-segment changes coded as either 11:1 (RR=2.70,
P
=0.0005) or 11:5 (RR=2.73,
P
=0.04) were independent predictors of CE.

Conclusions—

Both a classic ischemic ST-segment exercise response and intensification of minor preexercise ST-segment depression to levels ≥1 mm independently predicted future CE in this asymptomatic population. Neither slowly rising ST depression nor horizontal ST depression <1 mm was prognostic.
Human Endothelial Progenitor Cells From Type II Diabetics Exhibit Impaired Proliferation, Adhesion, and Incorporation Into Vascular Structures
Authors: Tepper Oren M. , Galiano Robert D. , Capla Jennifer M. , Kalka Christoph , Gagne Paul J. , Jacobowitz Glen R. , Levine Jamie P. , Gurtner Geoffrey C.
Published: November 2002

Background—

The recent discovery of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) has altered our understanding of new blood vessel growth such as occurs during collateral formation. Because diabetic complications occur in conditions in which EPC contributions have been demonstrated, EPC dysfunction may be important in their pathophysiology.

Methods and Results—

EPCs were isolated from human type II diabetics (n=20) and age-matched control subjects (n=20). Proliferation of diabetic EPCs relative to control subjects was decreased by 48% (
P
<0.01) and inversely correlated with patient levels of hemoglobin A1C (
P
<0.05). Diabetic EPCs had normal adhesion to fibronectin, collagen, and quiescent endothelial cells but a decreased adherence to human umbilical vein endothelial cells activated by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (
P
<0.05). In a Matrigel assay, diabetic EPCs were 2.5 times less likely to participate in tubule formation compared with controls (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

These findings suggest that type II diabetes may alter EPC biology in processes critical for new blood vessel growth and may identify a population at high risk for morbidity and mortality after vascular occlusive events.
Increased Oxidative Stress and Platelet Activation in Patients With Hypertension and Renovascular Disease
Authors: Minuz Pietro , Patrignani Paola , Gaino Stefania , Degan Maurizio , Menapace Laura , Tommasoli Rosamaria , Seta Francesca , Capone Marta L. , Tacconelli Stefania , Palatresi Simone , Bencini Chiara , Del Vecchio Cecilia , Mansueto Giancarlo , Arosio Enrico , Santonastaso Clara Lechi , Lechi Alessandro , Morganti Alberto , Patrono Carlo
Published: November 2002

Background—

Hypertensive patients with renovascular disease (RVD) may be exposed to increased oxidative stress, possibly related to activation of the renin-angiotensin system.

Methods and Results—

We measured the urinary excretion of 8-iso-prostaglandin (PG) F
2α
and 11-dehydro-thromboxane (TX) B
2
as indexes of in vivo lipid peroxidation and platelet activation, respectively, in 25 patients with RVD, 25 patients with essential hypertension, and 25 healthy subjects. Plasma renin activity in peripheral and renal veins, angiotensin II in renal veins, cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, homocysteine, and antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E were also determined. Patients were also studied 6 months after a technically successful angioplasty of the stenotic renal arteries. Urinary 8-iso-PGF
2α
was significantly higher in patients with RVD (median, 305 pg/mg creatinine; range, 124 to 1224 pg/mg creatinine) than in patients with essential hypertension (median, 176 pg/mg creatinine; range, 48 to 384 pg/mg creatinine) or in healthy subjects (median, 123 pg/mg creatinine; range, 58 to 385 pg/mg creatinine). Urinary 11-dehydro-TXB
2
was also significantly higher in RVD patients compared with healthy subjects. In RVD patients
,
urinary 8-iso-PGF
2α
correlated with 11-dehydro-TXB
2
(
r
s
=0.48;
P
<0.05) and renal vein renin (
r
s
=0.67;
P
<0.005) and angiotensin II (
r
s
=0.65;
P
=0.005) ratios. A reduction in 8-iso-PGF
2α
after angioplasty was observed in RVD patients with high baseline levels of lipid peroxidation. Changes in 8-iso-PGF
2α
were related to baseline lipid peroxidation (
r
s
=−0.73;
P
<0.001), renal vein angiotensin II (
r
s
=−0.70;
P
<0.01) and renin (
r
s
=−0.63;
P
<0.05) ratios.

Conclusions—

Lipid peroxidation is markedly enhanced in hypertensive patients with RVD and is related to activation of the renin-angiotensin system. Moreover, persistent platelet activation triggered or amplified by bioactive isoprostanes may contribute to the progression of cardiovascular and renal damage in this setting.
Response to Adenosine Differentiates Focal From Macroreentrant Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: Iwai Sei , Markowitz Steven M. , Stein Kenneth M. , Mittal Suneet , Slotwiner David J. , Das Mithilesh K. , Cohen Jennifer D. , Hao Steven C. , Lerman Bruce B.
Published: November 2002

Background—

We previously proposed that adenosine has mechanism-specific effects on atrial tachycardia (AT), such that adenosine terminates AT attributable to triggered activity, transiently suppresses automatic rhythms, and has no effect on macroreentrant AT. This, however, remains controversial, because other studies have reported that adenosine terminates reentrant AT. To clarify this issue, we used 3D electroanatomic mapping to delineate the tachycardia circuit and thereby determine whether the response to adenosine differentiates focal from macroreentrant AT.

Methods and Results—

We examined the effect of adenosine on 43 ATs in 42 consecutive patients (59±15 years of age; 26 female) who received adenosine during tachycardia and whose mechanism of AT was characterized by pharmacological perturbation, entrainment, 3D electroanatomic mapping, and results of radiofrequency ablation. Eight tachycardias were macroreentrant (noncavotricuspid isthmus-dependent), and 35 ATs were focal (either triggered or automatic). Adenosine administered during AT (at doses sufficient to result in AV block) terminated or transiently suppressed focal AT in 33 of 35 cases, whereas 8 of 8 macroreentrant ATs were adenosine insensitive (
P
<0.001). Twenty-eight of 35 focal ATs were located along the crista terminalis or tricuspid annulus.

Conclusions—

The response of AT to adenosine can immediately differentiate atrial tachycardia arising from a focal source from that attributable to macroreentry. This finding can be exploited to facilitate developing a focused, strategic ablative approach at the onset of a procedure.
Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Yelbuz T. Mesud , Choma Michael A. , Thrane Lars , Kirby Margaret L. , Izatt Joseph A.
Published: November 2002

Background—

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a depth-resolved, noninvasive, non-destructive imaging modality, the use of which has yet to be fully realized in developmental biology.

Methods and Results—

We visualized embryonic chick hearts at looping stages using an OCT system with a 22 μm axial and 27 μm lateral resolution and an acquisition rate of 4000 A-scans per second. Normal chick embryos from stages 14 to 22 and sham-operated and cardiac neural crest-ablated embryos from stages 15 and 18 were scanned by OCT. Three-dimensional data sets were acquired and processed to create volumetric reconstructions and short video clips. The OCT-scanned embryos (2 in each group) were photographed after histological sectioning in comparable planes to those visualized by OCT. The optical and histological results showing cardiovascular microstructures such as myocardium, the cardiac jelly, and endocardium are presented.

Conclusions—

OCT is a powerful imaging modality which can provide new insight in assessing and understanding normal and abnormal cardiac development in a variety of animal models.
Adiponectin Reduces Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice
Authors: Okamoto Yoshihisa , Kihara Shinji , Ouchi Noriyuki , Nishida Makoto , Arita Yukio , Kumada Masahiro , Ohashi Koji , Sakai Naohiko , Shimomura Iichiro , Kobayashi Hideki , Terasaka Naoki , Inaba Toshimori , Funahashi Tohru , Matsuzawa Yuji
Published: November 2002

Background—

Dysregulation of adipocyte-derived bioactive molecules plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. We previously reported that adiponectin, an adipocyte-specific plasma protein, accumulated in the injured artery from the plasma and suppressed endothelial inflammatory response and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, as well as macrophage-to-foam cell transformation in vitro. The current study investigated whether the increased plasma adiponectin could actually reduce atherosclerosis in vivo.

Methods and Results—

Apolipoprotein E-deficient mice were treated with recombinant adenovirus expressing human adiponectin (Ad-APN) or β-galactosidase (Ad-βgal). The plasma adiponectin levels in Ad-APN–treated mice increased 48 times as much as those in Ad-βgal treated mice. On the 14th day after injection, the lesion formation in aortic sinus was inhibited in Ad-APN–treated mice by 30% compared with Ad-βgal–treated mice (
P
<0.05). In the lesions of Ad-APN–treated mice, the lipid droplets became smaller compared with Ad-βgal–treated mice (
P
<0.01). Immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated that the adenovirus-mediated adiponectin migrate to foam cells in the fatty streak lesions. The real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that Ad-APN treatment significantly suppressed the mRNA levels of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 by 29% and class A scavenger receptor by 34%, and tended to reduce levels of tumor necrosis factor-α without affecting those of CD36 in the aortic tissue.

Conclusions—

These findings documented for the first time that elevated plasma adiponectin suppresses the development of atherosclerosis in vivo.
Targeted Antiproliferative Drug Delivery to Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells With a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Nanoparticle Contrast Agent
Authors: Lanza Gregory M. , Yu Xin , Winter Patrick M. , Abendschein Dana R. , Karukstis Kerry K. , Scott Michael J. , Chinen Lori K. , Fuhrhop Ralph W. , Scherrer David E. , Wickline Samuel A.
Published: November 2002

Background—

Restenosis is a serious complication of coronary angioplasty that involves the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from the media to the intima, synthesis of extracellular matrix, and remodeling. We have previously demonstrated that tissue factor–targeted nanoparticles can penetrate and bind stretch-activated vascular smooth muscles in the media after balloon injury. In the present study, the concept of VSMC-targeted nanoparticles as a drug-delivery platform for the prevention of restenosis after angioplasty is studied.

Methods and Results—

Tissue factor–targeted nanoparticles containing doxorubicin or paclitaxel at 0, 0.2, or 2.0 mole% of the outer lipid layer were targeted for 30 minutes to VSMCs and significantly inhibited their proliferation in culture over the next 3 days. Targeting of the nanoparticles to VSMC surface epitopes significantly increased nanoparticle antiproliferative effectiveness, particularly for paclitaxel. In vitro dissolution studies revealed that nanoparticle drug release persisted over one week. Targeted antiproliferative results were dependent on the hydrophobic nature of the drug and noncovalent interactions with other surfactant components. Molecular imaging of nanoparticles adherent to the VSMC was demonstrated with high-resolution T
1
-weighted MRI at 4.7T. MRI
19
F spectroscopy of the nanoparticle core provided a quantifiable approach for noninvasive dosimetry of targeted drug payloads.

Conclusions—

These data suggest that targeted paramagnetic nanoparticles may provide a novel, MRI-visualizable, and quantifiable drug delivery system for the prevention of restenosis after angioplasty.
Patient Satisfaction in the Emergency Department—A Survey of Pediatric Patients and Their Parents
Authors: Magaret Nathan D. , Clark Thomas A. , Warden Craig R. , Magnusson A. Roy , Hedges Jerris R.
Published: December 2002

Objectives: To assess and compare overall satisfaction in pediatric emergency department (ED) patients and their accompanying parents. To identify aspects of health care delivery that influence satisfaction in these groups. Methods: Pediatric patients (ages 5‐17 years) and their parents (or guardians) seen at a university hospital pediatric ED were eligible. A convenience sample of English‐speaking subject pairs (n = 101 pairs) was enrolled. Questionnaires were administered to both children and their parents at the completion of their ED care. The survey instruments used a modified Wong‐Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale and a six‐point interval scale. Factors measured included overall satisfaction, perceptions of pain and fear, and other characteristics of the ED visit. Data were analyzed using paired Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests, Spearman rank correlation coefficients, and Fischer's exact chi‐square tests (α= 0.05) where appropriate. Results: Parent satisfaction was associated with the quality of provider—patient interactions (R = 0.54, p = 0.0001), the adequacy of information provided (R = 0.47, p = 0.0001), and shorter waiting room times (R = ‐0.24, p = 0.01). Child satisfaction was associated with the quality of provider—patient interactions (R = 0.24, p 0.04), adequacy of information provided (R = 0.51, p = 0.003), and resolution of pain (R = 0.25, p = 0.03). Parent estimates were similar to children's initial pain scores; however, children reported greater resolution of pain than appreciated by their parents (p = 0.006). Conclusions: Satisfaction can be validly and reliably measured in pediatric patients using a visual scale instrument. Factors that influence patient satisfaction were similar among both children and their parents. The influence of pain resolution on pediatric ED satisfaction is a novel finding, which demonstrates the importance of appropriate pain and anxiety assessment and treatment in children.
Advanced Statistics: Up with Odds Ratios! A Case for Odds Ratios When Outcomes Are Common
Authors: Cook Thomas D.
Published: December 2002

Treatment comparisons from clinical studies involving dichotomous outcomes are often summarized using risk ratios. Risk ratios are typically used because the underlying statistical model is often consistent with the underlying biological mechanism of the treatment and they are easily interpretable. The use of odds ratios to summarize treatment effects has been discouraged, especially in studies in which outcomes are common, largely because odds ratios differ from risk ratios and are frequently interpreted incorrectly as risk ratios. In this article, the author contends that risk ratios can be easily misinterpreted and that, in many cases, odds ratios should be preferred, especially in studies in which outcomes are common.
As COVID-19 Cases Surge, Here’s What to Know About JN.1, the Latest SARS-CoV-2 “Variant of Interest”
Authors: Rubin Rita
Published: January 2024

This Medical News story discusses JN.1, recently classified as a SARS-CoV-2 “variant of interest” by the World Health Organization.
Trends in Cancer Mortality Disparities Between Black and White Individuals in the US, 2000-2020
Authors: Gupta Anjali , Akinyemiju Tomi
Published: January 2024

This cross-sectional study compares trends in estimated age-adjusted cancer mortality rates between non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White individuals in the US from 2000 to 2020.
Listening Processes and Listening Tasks
Authors: Madarbakus‐Ring Naheen
Published: January 2024

For many teachers and learners, choosing effective tasks in the L2 listening classroom remains problematic. This entry discusses how to address the complexity of selecting listening tasks for listening lessons by considering information processes, bottom‐up and top‐down approaches, controlled and automatic processes, and the reiterative process (perception, parsing, and utilization). These processes can be orchestrated to provide teachers and learners with an integrated task approach to L2 listening. The entry then defines five listening tasks proposed by Goh (2018b) before providing practical teaching ideas that could be used for listening lessons.
Current Trends and Future Directions in ELT: Automaticity in Second Language Grammar Learning
Authors: Thoai Ton Nu Linh
Published: January 2024

Previous research on second language learning has proven beyond doubt that grammatical knowledge plays an important role in second language (L2) competence and fluency. While the acquisition of grammatical knowledge relies heavily on explicit instructions and conscious learning, automaticity is considered as a higher level where the learners are able to use the proceduralized knowledge in their language output without effortful formulation of grammatical structures. There has been a belief that automaticity occurs when the declarative knowledge is “transformed” into procedural knowledge. Unfortunately, there are conditions on which this transformation process depends, among them being the effectiveness of explicit and implicit knowledge and instruction, the L2 learning environment, the critical period, and others. Research literature on automaticity in grammar learning calls for more longitudinal studies that can observe and examine how, and how much, L2 grammar knowledge is proceduralized and automatized in the long run.
Geoalkalibacteraceae
Authors: Zavarzina Daria G. , Merkel Alexander Y.
Published: January 2024

Ge.o.al.ka.li.bac.te.ra.ce'ae. N.L. masc. n.
Geoalkalibacter
, type genus of the family; L. fem. pl. n. suff. ‐
aceae
, ending to denote a family; N.L. fem. pl. n.
Geoalkalibacteraceae
, the family of the genus
Geoalkalibacter
.

Desulfobacterota_F / Desulfuromonadia / Desulfuromonadales / Geoalkalibacteraceae

The family is a member of the order
Desulfuromonadales
in the phylum
Desulfobacterota_F
and consists of a single genus
Geoalkalibacter
. The family
Geoalkalibacteraceae
includes strictly anaerobic chemolitho‐ or chemoorganotrophic bacteria that inhabit soda lakes or petroleum reservoirs. They are alkalitolerant or alkaliphiles, halotolerant or moderate halophiles using molecular hydrogen or a wide range of organic compounds as energy sources and either soluble or insoluble Fe(III), Mn(IV), or sulfur compounds as electron acceptors. Members of this family are electroactive microorganisms and can also use Fe(II)‐containing minerals or cathodes as electron donors.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 57.05–60.57 (genome analysis).

Type genus
:
Geoalkalibacter
Zavarzina et al. 2006, VL115 emend. Greene et al. 2009.
Methylopila
Authors: Agafonova Nadezhda V. , Kaparullina Elena N. , Doronina Nina V.
Published: January 2024

Me.thy.lo.pi'la. N.L. neut. n.
methyl
, the methyl group; L. fem. n.
pila
, ball or sphere; N.L.
Methylopila
, methyl‐using sphere.

Pseudomonadota / Alphaproteobacteria / Rhizobiales / Methylopilaceae / Methylopila

The genus
Methylopila
accommodates strictly aerobic facultatively methylotrophic bacteria. Cells are Gram‐stain‐negative, rod shaped, asporogenous, and motile or nonmotile; occur singly or in pairs; multiply by binary fission; and contain poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate granules. Utilize methanol and methylamine as well as a variety of multicarbon compounds as carbon and energy sources. Assimilate C
1
compounds by isocitrate lyase‐negative variant of the serine pathway. Growth factors are not required. Ammonium salts, nitrate, urea, peptone, some amino acids, and methylated amines are utilized as nitrogen sources. Do not grow on CH
4
or H
2
/CO
2
/O
2
. Oxidase‐, catalase‐, and urease‐positive. Indole is formed from
l
‐tryptophan on mineral medium with methanol as the sole carbon and energy source and KNO
3
as the sole nitrogen source. Acids are produced from sugars oxidatively. Growth occurs at 10–37°C (but not at 42°C), pH 5.0–10.0. The major fatty acid is C
18:1
ω7
c
. The major quinone is Q‐10. The genome sizes are 3.72–4.14 Mb. According to Genome Taxonomy Database (GTDB), the genus belongs to the phylum
Pseudomonadota
, class
Alphaproteobacteria
, order
Rhizobiales
, and family
Methylopilaceae
. Representatives of this genus inhabit phyllosphere and rhizosphere of various plants, fruits, and activated sludge, polluted and natural soils.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 64.5–70.4 (
T
m
and genome analyses).

Type species
:
Methylopila capsulata
Doronina et al. 1998
VP
.
Qipengyuania
Authors: Xu Xue‐Wei , Fu Ge‐Yi , Wang Ming‐Lei
Published: January 2024

Qi.pen.gyu.an'i.a. N.L. fem. n.
Qipengyuania
, named after Qipeng Yuan, a Chinese biologist, who has achieved excellent accomplishments in biopharmaceuticals, natural product research and development, genetic engineering drugs, etc.

Pseudomonadota / Alphaproteobacteria / Sphingomonadales / Sphingomonadaceae / Qipengyuania

The genus
Qipengyuania
, belonging to the family
Sphingomonadaceae
, order
Sphingomonadales
, class
Alphaproteobacteria
, and phylum
Pseudomonadota
, currently includes 30 species with validly published names. Cells are Gram‐stain‐negative, non‐spore‐forming, rod, spherical, or pleomorphic cocci. Aerobic or facultatively aerobic chemoorganotrophs. Slightly halophilic or halotolerant, mostly grow well in the salinity range of 0–14.0% (w/v) NaCl, with the optimum of 1.0–5.0%. Grow at pH range from 4.0 to 11.0, with an optimum at pH 6.5–9.0. Mesophilic, optimal growth at 20–37°C, growth range 4–45°C. The colony color is yellow, orange, or light green. Cells contain carotenoid pigments but not bacteriochlorophyll
a
. The major isoprenoid quinone is ubiquinone‐10. The main fatty acids mostly detected are hexadecenoic acid (C
16:1
), heptadecenoic acid (C
17:1
), and octadecenoic acid (C
18:1
). The major polar lipids are diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and phosphatidylglycerol (PG). The DNA G + C content is 60.1–66.8 mol% (by genome sequence). The known habitats are aquatic environments such as hot springs, seawater, mangrove soil, and marine invertebrates as well as distributed in subterrestrial sediment.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 60–67 (by genome).

Type species
:
Qipengyuania sediminis
Feng et al. 2015
VP
, emend. Xu et al. 2020.
Cytoplasmic Accumulation of Histones Induced by BET Inhibition Protects Cells from C9orf72 Poly(PR)‐Induced Cell Death
Authors: Chen Miaomiao , Guo Xiaohong , Guo Jinjing , Shi Conglin , Wu Yuanyuan , Chen Liuting , Mao Renfang , Fan Yihui
Published: January 2024

Repeat dipeptides such as poly(proline‐arginine) (polyPR) are generated from the hexanucleotide GGGGCC repeat expansions in the C9orf72 gene. These dipeptides are often considered as the genetic cause of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). In the study, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) labeled PR20 is used to investigate PR20‐induced cell death. The findings reveal that the cell death induced by PR20 is dependent on its nuclear distribution and can be blocked by a nuclear import inhibitor called importazole. Further investigation reveals that BRD4 inhibitors, such as JQ‐1 and I‐BET762, restrict cytoplasmic localization of PR20, thereby reducing its cytotoxic effect. Mechanistically, the inhibition of BRD4 leads to an increase in the expression of numerous histones, resulting in the accumulation of histones in the cytoplasm. These cytoplasmic histones associate with PR20 and limit its distribution within the nucleus. Notably, the ectopic expression of histones alone is enough to confer protection to cells treated with PR20. In addition, phenylephrine (PE) induces cellular hypertrophy and cytoplasmic distribution of histone, which also helps protect cells from PR20‐induced cell death. The research suggests that temporarily inducing the presence of cytoplasmic histones may alleviate the neurotoxic effects of dipeptide repeat proteins.
NADPH Oxidase‐Like Nanozyme for High‐Efficiency Tumor Therapy Through Increasing Glutathione Consumption and Blocking Glutathione Regeneration
Authors: Han Di , Ding Binbin , Zheng Pan , Yuan Meng , Bian Yulong , Chen Hao , Wang Meifang , Chang Mengyu , Kheraif Abdulaziz A. Al , Ma Ping'an , Lin Jun
Published: January 2024

To counteract the high level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by rapid growth, tumor cells resist oxidative stress by accelerating the production and regeneration of intracellular glutathione (GSH). Numerous studies focus on the consumption of GSH, but the regeneration of GSH will enhance the reduction level of tumor cells to resist oxidative stress. Therefore, inhibiting the regeneration of GSH; while, consuming GSH is of great significance for breaking the redox balance of tumor cells. Herein, a simple termed MnOx‐coated Au (AMO) nanoflower, as a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) nanoenzyme, is reported for efficient tumor therapy. Au nanoparticles exhibit the capability to catalyze the oxidation of NADPH, hindering GSH regeneration; while, concurrently functioning as a photothermal agent. During the process of eliminating intracellular GSH, MnOx releases Mn2+ that subsequently engages in Fenton‐like reactions, ultimately facilitating the implementation of chemodynamic therapy (CDT). Overall, this NOX enzyme‐based nanoplatform enhances ROS generation and disrupts the state of reduction equilibrium, inducing apoptosis and ferroptosis by blocking GSH regeneration and increasing GSH consumption, thereby achieving collaborative treatments involving photothermal therapy (PTT), CDT, and catalytic therapy. This research contributes to NADPH and GSH targeted tumor therapy and showcases the potential of nanozymes.
Supramolecular Assembly Based on Calix(4)arene and Aggregation‐Induced Emission Photosensitizer for Phototherapy of Drug‐Resistant Bacteria and Skin Flap Transplantation
Authors: Wang Rui‐Peng , Liu Wenbin , Wang Xiaoxuan , Shan Guogang , Liu Tuozhou , Xu Fengrui , Dai Honglian , Qi Chunxuan , Feng Hai‐Tao , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: January 2024

Photodynamic therapy as a burgeoning and non‐invasive theranostic technique has drawn great attention in the field of antibacterial treatment but often encounters undesired phototoxicity of photosensitizers during systemic circulation. Herein, a supramolecular substitution strategy is proposed for phototherapy of drug‐resistant bacteria and skin flap repair by using macrocyclic p‐sulfonatocalix(4)arene (SC4A) as a host, and two cationic aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens), namely TPE‐QAS and TPE‐2QAS, bearing quaternary ammonium group(s) as guests. Through host–guest assembly, the obtained complex exhibits obvious blue fluorescence in the solution due to the restriction of free motion of AIEgens and drastically inhibits efficient type I ROS generation. Then, upon the addition of another guest 4,4′‐benzidine dihydrochloride, TPE‐QAS can be competitively replaced from the cavity of SC4A to restore its pristine ROS efficiency and photoactivity in aqueous solution. The dissociative TPE‐QAS shows a high bacterial binding ability with an efficient treatment for methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in dark and light irradiation. Meanwhile, it also exhibits an improved survival rate for MRSA‐infected skin flap transplantation and largely accelerates the healing process. Thus, such cascaded host–guest assembly is an ideal platform for phototheranostics research.
Near‐Infrared Induced miR‐34a Delivery from Nanoparticles in Esophageal Cancer Treatment
Authors: Alden Nick A. , Yeingst Tyus J. , Pfeiffer Hanna M. , Celik Nazmiye , Arrizabalaga Julien H. , Helton Angelica M. , Liu Yiming , Stairs Douglas B. , Glick Adam B. , Goyal Neerav , Hayes Daniel J.
Published: January 2024

Current nucleic acid delivery methods have not achieved efficient, non‐toxic delivery of miRNAs with tumor‐specific selectivity. In this study, a new delivery system based on light‐inducible gold–silver–gold, core–shell–shell (CSS) nanoparticles is presented. This system delivers small nucleic acid therapeutics with precise spatiotemporal control, demonstrating the potential for achieving tumor‐specific selectivity and efficient delivery of miRNA mimics. The light‐inducible particles leverage the photothermal heating of metal nanoparticles due to the local surface plasmonic resonance for controlled chemical cleavage and release of the miRNA mimic payload. The CSS morphology and composition result in a plasmonic resonance within the near‐infrared (NIR) region of the light spectrum. Through this method, exogenous miR‐34a‐5p mimics are effectively delivered to human squamous cell carcinoma TE10 cells, leading to apoptosis induction without adverse effects on untransformed keratinocytes in vitro. The CSS nanoparticle delivery system is tested in vivo in Foxn1nu athymic nude mice with bilateral human esophageal TE10 cancer cells xenografts. These experiments reveal that this CSS nanoparticle conjugates, when systemically administered, followed by 850 nm light emitting diode irradiation at the tumor site, 6 h post‐injection, produce a significant and sustained reduction in tumor volume, exceeding 87% in less than 72 h.
Ultraflexible Wireless Imager Integrated with Organic Circuits for Broadband Infrared Thermal Analysis
Authors: Kawabata Rei , Li Kou , Araki Teppei , Akiyama Mihoko , Sugimachi Kaho , Matsuoka Nozomi , Takahashi Norika , Sakai Daiki , Matsuzaki Yuto , Koshimizu Ryo , Yamamoto Minami , Takai Leo , Odawara Ryoga , Abe Takaaki , Izumi Shintaro , Kurihira Naoko , Uemura Takafumi , Kawano Yukio , Sekitani Tsuyoshi
Published: January 2024

Flexible imagers are currently under intensive development as versatile optical sensor arrays, designed to capture images of surfaces and internals, irrespective of their shape. A significant challenge in developing flexible imagers is extending their detection capabilities to encompass a broad spectrum of infrared light, particularly terahertz (THz) light at room temperature. This advancement is crucial for thermal and biochemical applications. In this study, a flexible infrared imager is designed using uncooled carbon nanotube (CNT) sensors and organic circuits. The CNT sensors, fabricated on ultrathin 2.4 µm substrates, demonstrate enhanced sensitivity across a wide infrared range, spanning from near‐infrared to THz wavelengths. Moreover, they retain their characteristics under bending and crumpling. The design incorporates light‐shielded organic transistors and circuits, functioning reliably under light irradiation, and amplifies THz detection signals by a factor of 10. The integration of both CNT sensors and shielded organic transistors into an 8 × 8 active‐sensor matrix within the imager enables sequential infrared imaging and nondestructive assessment for heat sources and in‐liquid chemicals through wireless communication systems. The proposed imager, offering unique functionality, shows promise for applications in biochemical analysis and soft robotics.
Probing Electronic Band Structures of Dielectric Polymers via Pre‐Breakdown Conduction
Authors: Li Zongze , Wu Chao , Chen Lihua , Wang Yifei , Mutulu Zeynep , Uehara Hiroaki , Zhou Jierui , Cakmak Miko , Ramprasad Rampi , Cao Yang
Published: January 2024

The electronic band structure, especially the defect states at the conduction band tail, dominates electron transport and electrical degradation of a dielectric material under an extremely high electric field. However, the electronic band structure in a dielectric is barely well studied due to experimental challenges in detecting the electrical conduction to an extremely high electric field, i.e., prebreakdown. In this work, the electronic band structure of polymer dielectric films is probed through an in situ prebreakdown conduction measurement method in conjunction with a space‐charge‐limited‐current spectroscopic analysis. An exponential distribution of defect states at the conduction band tail with varying trap levels is observed in accordance with the specific morphological disorder in the polymer dielectric, and the experimental defect states show also a favorable agreement with the calculated density of states from the density functional theory. The methodology demonstrated in this work bridges the molecule‐structure‐determined electronic band structure and the macro electrical conduction behavior with a highly improved understanding of material properties that control the electrical breakdown, and paves a way for guiding the modification of existing material and the exploration of novel materials for high electric field applications.
Light‐Activated Synthetic Rotary Motors in Lipid Membranes Induce Shape Changes Through Membrane Expansion
Authors: Qutbuddin Yusuf , Guinart Ainoa , Gavrilović Svetozar , Al Nahas Kareem , Feringa Ben L. , Schwille Petra
Published: January 2024

Membranes are the key structures to separate and spatially organize cellular systems. Their rich dynamics and transformations during the cell cycle are orchestrated by specific membrane‐targeted molecular machineries, many of which operate through energy dissipation. Likewise, man‐made light‐activated molecular rotary motors have previously shown drastic effects on cellular systems, but their physical roles on and within lipid membranes remain largely unexplored. Here, the impact of rotary motors on well‐defined biological membranes is systematically investigated. Notably, dramatic mechanical transformations are observed in these systems upon motor irradiation, indicative of motor‐induced membrane expansion. The influence of several factors on this phenomenon is systematically explored, such as motor concentration and membrane composition., Membrane fluidity is found to play a crucial role in motor‐induced deformations, while only minor contributions from local heating and singlet oxygen generation are observed. Most remarkably, the membrane area expansion under the influence of the motors continues as long as irradiation is maintained, and the system stays out‐of‐equilibrium. Overall, this research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of molecular motors interacting with biological membranes, elucidating the multifaceted factors that govern membrane responses and shape transitions in the presence of these remarkable molecular machines, thereby supporting their future applications in chemical biology.
Dual Polymerized Y‐Acceptors of Distinct‐Dimensionality Create Neuron‐Like Interpenetrating Hierarchical Network towards Efficient and Stable All‐Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Ji Jingjing , Wu Zhiyuan , Xie Jiaqi , Wang Weiyi , Qian Hui , Liang Ziqi
Published: January 2024

All‐polymer solar cells have garnered particular attention thanks to their superior thermal, photo, and mechanical stabilities for large‐scale manufacturing, yet the performance enhancement remains largely restrained by inherent morphological challenges of the bulk‐heterojunction active layer. Herein, a 3D Y‐branched polymerized small‐molecule acceptor named PYBF, characteristic of high molecular weight and glass transition temperature, is designed and synthesized by precisely linking C3h‐symmetric benzotrifuran with Y6 acceptors. In comparison to the benchmark thiophene‐bridged linear PYIT acceptor, an optical blue‐shift absorption is observed for PYBF yet a slightly higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.7% (vs 15.14%) is obtained when paired with polymer donor PM6, which benefit from the more crystalline and face‐on‐oriented PYBF domains. However, the star‐like bulky structure of PYBF results in the nucleation‐growth dominant phase‐separation in polymeric blends, which generates stumpy droplet‐like acceptor fibrils and impairs the continuity of acceptor phases. This issue is however surprisingly resolved by incorporating a small amount of PYIT, which leads to the formation of the more interconnective neuron‐like dual‐acceptor domains by long‐chain entanglements of linear acceptors and alleviates bimolecular recombination. Thus, the champion device realizes a respectable PCE of up to ≈17% and importantly exhibits thermal and storage stabilities superior to the linear counterpart.
Asian Cohort for Alzheimer's Disease (ACAD) pilot study on genetic and non‐genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease among Asian Americans and Canadians
Authors: Ho Pei‐Chuan , Yu Wai Haung , Tee Boon Lead , Lee Wan‐Ping , Li Clara , Gu Yian , Yokoyama Jennifer S. , Reyes‐Dumeyer Dolly , Choi Yun‐Beom , Yang Hyun‐Sik , Vardarajan Badri N. , Tzuang Marian , Lieu Kevin , Lu Anna , Faber Kelley M. , Potter Zoë D. , Revta Carolyn , Kirsch Maureen , McCallum Jake , Mei Diana , Booth Briana , Cantwell Laura B. , Chen Fangcong , Chou Sephera , Clark Dewi , Deng Michelle , Hong Ting Hei , Hwang Ling‐Jen , Jiang Lilly , Joo Yoonmee , Kang Younhee , Kim Ellen S. , Kim Hoowon , Kim Kyungmin , Kuzma Amanda B. , Lam Eleanor , Lanata Serggio C. , Lee Kunho , Li Donghe , Li Mingyao , Li Xiang , Liu Chia‐Lun , Liu Collin , Liu Linghsi , Lupo Jody‐Lynn , Nguyen Khai , Pfleuger Shannon E. , Qian James , Qian Winnie , Ramirez Veronica , Russ Kristen A. , Seo Eun Hyun , Song Yeunjoo E. , Tartaglia Maria Carmela , Tian Lu , Torres Mina , Vo Namkhue , Wong Ellen C. , Xie Yuan , Yau Eugene B. , Yi Isabelle , Yu Victoria , Zeng Xiaoyi , St George‐Hyslop Peter , Au Rhoda , Schellenberg Gerard D. , Dage Jeffrey L. , Varma Rohit , Hsiung Ging‐Yuek R. , Rosen Howard , Henderson Victor W. , Foroud Tatiana , Kukull Walter A. , Peavy Guerry M. , Lee Haeok , Feldman Howard H. , Mayeux Richard , Chui Helena , Jun Gyungah R. , Ta Park Van M. , Chow Tiffany W. , Wang Li‐San
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION

Clinical research in Alzheimer's disease (AD) lacks cohort diversity despite being a global health crisis. The Asian Cohort for Alzheimer's Disease (ACAD) was formed to address underrepresentation of Asians in research, and limited understanding of how genetics and non‐genetic/lifestyle factors impact this multi‐ethnic population.

METHODS

The ACAD started fully recruiting in October 2021 with one central coordination site, eight recruitment sites, and two analysis sites. We developed a comprehensive study protocol for outreach and recruitment, an extensive data collection packet, and a centralized data management system, in English, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese.

RESULTS

ACAD has recruited 606 participants with an additional 900 expressing interest in enrollment since program inception.

DISCUSSION

ACAD's traction indicates the feasibility of recruiting Asians for clinical research to enhance understanding of AD risk factors. ACAD will recruit > 5000 participants to identify genetic and non‐genetic/lifestyle AD risk factors, establish blood biomarker levels for AD diagnosis, and facilitate clinical trial readiness.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Asian Cohort for Alzheimer's Disease (ACAD) promotes awareness of under‐investment in clinical research for Asians.

We are recruiting Asian Americans and Canadians for novel insights into Alzheimer's disease.

We describe culturally appropriate recruitment strategies and data collection protocol.

ACAD addresses challenges of recruitment from heterogeneous Asian subcommunities.

We aim to implement a successful recruitment program that enrolls across three Asian subcommunities.
Oxygen‐Vacancy‐Engineered W18O49−x Nanobrush with a Suitable Band Structure for Highly Efficient Sonodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zheng Pan , Ami'erjiang Yijiati , Liu Bin , Wang Meifang , Ding He , Ding Binbin , Lin Jun
Published: January 2024

With the rapid development of external minimally invasive or noninvasive therapeutic modalities, ultrasound‐based sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is a new alternative for treating deep tumors. However, inadequate sonosensitizer efficiency and poor biosecurity limit clinical applications. In this study, we prepared an oxygen‐vacancy‐engineered W18O49−x nanobrush with a band gap of 2.79 eV for highly efficient SDT using a simple solvothermal method. The suitable band structures of the W18O49−x nanobrush endows it with the potential to simultaneously produce singlet oxygen (1O2), superoxide anions (⋅O2−), and hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) under ultrasound irradiation. Additionally, abundant oxygen vacancies that serve as further charge traps that inhibit electron‐hole recombination are incidentally introduced through one‐step thermal reduction. Collectively, the in vitro and in vivo results demonstrate that the oxygen‐vacancy‐engineered W18O49−x nanobrush delivers highly efficient reactive oxygen species (ROS) for SDT in a very biosafe manner. Overall, this study provides a new avenue for discovering and designing inorganic nanosonosensitizers with enhanced therapeutic efficiencies for use in SDT.
Bioinspired Total Synthesis of Bipolarolides A and B
Authors: Li Bo , Tan Chuanzhen , Ma Tianhao , Jia Yanxing
Published: January 2024

We have achieved the first total synthesis of bipolarolides A and B, which possess an intriguing and complex 5/6/6/6/5 caged pentacyclic skeleton with seven contiguous stereocenters. The synthesis features a lithium‐halogen exchange/intermolecular nucleophilic addition to link two enantioenriched fragments, two ring‐closing metathesis reactions to assemble the five‐ and eight‐membered rings, and a bioinspired Prins reaction/ether formation cascade cyclization to construct the 5/6/6/6/5 caged skeleton.
Improving the tracking and erosion resistance of silicone rubber using Fe2O3 and platinum catalyst
Authors: Shang Ruiqi , Cheng Fangzheng , Wang Liming , Mei Hongwei , Yin Fanghui , Farzaneh Masoud
Published: January 2024

In typical HTV silicone rubber for composite insulators subjected to a 4.5 kV inclined plane (IP) test, alumina trihydrate loading exceeds 40 wt%, which limits the rubber content and weakens the antiaging properties. This study compares two methods for enhancing tracking and erosion resistance while reducing ATH content to meet IP test requirements. Increasing Fe2O3 content from 1.5 wt% to 3 wt% promotes the formation of mullite. The formed ceramic layer isolates heat and oxygen and hence facilitates the specimen to pass the IP tests with less content of ATH. By contrast, Pt/NS system cannot suppress the tracking efficiently by forming the SiOC ceramics at high ATH loading. The decomposition of ATH will generate water vapor and lead to holes in the surface. Both moisture and oxygen absorbed have a detrimental effect on the suppression mechanism of the Pt/NS system. Consequently, it is recommended that the content of Fe2O3 can be increased slightly to lower the ATH content in the traditional HTV SiR formula used for the composite insulator. Besides, when the content of ATH is relatively high, the use of the Pt/NS system is not recommended.