bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superconductivity: The Promise and Reality
Authors: Zimmerman George O.
Published: September 2003

The discovery of superconductivity brought with it the promise of a miracle solution to many technological problems encountered by the electrical power industry. That discovery was at Leiden in 1911. Since then, engineering designs and prototypes have been developed for the use of superconductive materials in electric power transmission, transformers, and machinery. The development of superconducting magnetic energy storage systems also held great promise. Superconductivity was even used to build marine propulsion systems and levitated track vehicles. Despite that, and despite the financial support of governments for prototype developments, the only commercial application of the technology, outside of laboratories, is for MRI magnets. Similar experience is encountered in superconducting applications to electronics, although some success has been achieved in the communication industry. The discovery of high temperature superconductivity, despite its promise, did not significantly change the situation. The developments will be reviewed, and some of the reasons why superconductivity is still mainly confined to the laboratory will be given with the view of what we, as scientists, can do in order to enhance and hasten the commercial adoption of superconducting technology.
Codebook Clustering by Self-Organizing Maps for Fractal Image Compression
Authors: Hamzaoui Raouf
Published: September 2003

A fast encoding scheme for fractal image compression is presented. The method uses a clustering algorithm based on Kohonen's self-organizing maps. Domain blocks are clustered, yielding a classification with a notion of distance which is not given in traditional classification schemes.
An Approach to the Inverse IFS Problem Using the Kantorovich Metric
Authors: Wadströmer Niclas
Published: September 2003

We will discuss how to use the Kantorovich metric in an attempt to solve the inverse IFS problem. The idea is to obtain an initial approximation of the IFS and then improve it iteratively along the gradient (in the parameter space) obtained by the Kantorovich metric.
Percolation in Random Cantor Sets
Authors: Orzechowski Mark E.
Published: September 2003

The d-dimensional random Cantor set is a generalization of the classical "middle-thirds" Cantor set. Starting with the unit cube [0, 1]d, at every stage of the construction we divide each cube remaining into Nd equal subcubes, and select each of these at random with probability p. The resulting limit set is a random fractal C. We present some of the main probabilistic properties of C, with an emphasis on the existence of large connected components ("percolation") and (d-1)-dimensional surfaces ("sheet-percolation"). We also look at some closely related models. Rigorous proofs are not attempted, but we give some heuristic explanations and further references.

These notes formed the basis for a talk at the NATO Advanced Study Institute on Fractal Image Encoding and Analysis in Trondheim, Norway on July 8–17, 1995.
Fractals in Transition Processes
Authors: Mintz R. I. , Berg D. B.
Published: September 2003

The present work is devoted to the design of model physical and computer systems with competitive interactions and analysis of structures, generated by their various metastable states.

As it was marked at the NATO Advanced Study Institute "Fractal image encoding and analysis" (Norway, 1995), that description and quantitative analysis of fractals forming in such systems at the self-organizing, transition processes is an unsolved problem, so called "terra incognita", which is requiring future investigations.
Fractal Transformations and the Wavelet Multiresolution Representation
Authors: Simon Benoît
Published: September 2003

We present in this paper the link between overlapping fractal transformation and the discrete wavelet multiresolution representation. Conclusions drawn from this study show that the fractal transformation induces an interpolation process in the wavelet multiresolution domain. This approach also allow to interpret the transition between continuous support definition and discrete implementation of fractal transformations. The fractal and wavelet representations are then merged in a single one exploiting the advantages of both. In addition, several problems as the decomposition in local self-similar model, the introduction of residues and extensions to images are reviewed.
Self Organizing Maps, Vector Quantization, and Fractal Image Coding
Authors: Carlini Paolo
Published: September 2003

This paper reviews the properties of a popular kind of neural network, called self organizing maps, then discusses their relevance for the field of lossy image coding. In particular, vector quantization (VQ) and fractal (block based) coding are studied from a common point of view, emphasizing their relationships. The latter is an exotic kind of (non-causal) predictive-VQ; clustering algorithms, directly useful in the VQ field, can be exploited to reduce its computational complexity.
Endothelial Protection by High-Density Lipoproteins
Authors: Calabresi Laura , Gomaraschi Monica , Franceschini Guido
Published: September 2003

There are several potential mechanisms by which HDLs protect against the development of vascular disease. One relates to the unique ability of these lipoproteins to remove cholesterol from the arterial wall. Another is the ability of HDL to prevent and eventually correct endothelial dysfunction, a key variable in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and its complications. HDLs help maintain endothelial integrity, facilitate vascular relaxation, inhibit blood cell adhesion to vascular endothelium, reduce platelet aggregability and coagulation, and may favor fibrinolysis. These functions of HDLs complement their activity in arterial cholesterol removal by providing an excellent rationale for favorably influencing pathological processes underlying a variety of clinical conditions, such as accelerated atherosclerosis, acute coronary syndromes, and restenosis after coronary angioplasty, through a chronic or acute elevation of plasma HDL concentration.
Elevated Whole-Blood Tissue Factor Procoagulant Activity as a Marker of Restenosis After Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty and Stent Implantation
Authors: Tutar Eralp , Ozcan Muhit , Kilickap Mustafa , Gülec Sadi , Aras Omer , Pamir Gulgun , Oral Dervis , Dandelet Luke , Key Nigel S.
Published: September 2003

Background—

Experimental data suggest that tissue factor (TF) may induce neointimal hyperplasia after arterial injury. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that elevated levels of TF in the circulation contribute to the development of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) or stent implantation.

Methods and Results—

Whole-blood TF procoagulant activity (TF-PCA) was measured using a previously described assay before, at 3 hours after, and at 24 hours after the intervention in 61 patients with stable angina undergoing PTCA (n=20) or stent implantation (n=41). Coronary angiography was performed 4 to 6 months after the intervention, and luminal narrowing ≥50% was defined as restenosis. Whole-blood TF-PCA levels did not correlate with intracellular monocyte tumor necrosis factor-α expression, a marker of activation of these cells. Baseline levels and time course of whole-blood TF-PCA after the intervention were compared in patients who did or did not subsequently develop restenosis. Whole-blood TF-PCA levels did not change significantly in the 24 hours after either intervention. However, in both the PTCA and stent groups, initial TF-PCA was significantly higher in patients who subsequently developed restenosis (
P
=0.018 and 0.039 compared with those who did not develop restenosis for PTCA and stent groups, respectively).

Conclusions—

Higher baseline values of whole-blood TF-PCA may be a predictor of restenosis after PTCA and stent implantation.
Local Generation of C-Reactive Protein in Diseased Coronary Artery Venous Bypass Grafts and Normal Vascular Tissue
Authors: Jabs Wolfram J. , Theissing Elisabeth , Nitschke Martin , Bechtel J.F. Matthias , Duchrow Michael , Mohamed Salah , Jahrbeck Bernhard , Sievers Hans-Hinrich , Steinhoff Jürgen , Bartels Claus
Published: September 2003

Background—

Venous coronary artery bypass grafts (CABGs) are prone to accelerated atherosclerosis. In atherosclerotic diseases, serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels have become an important diagnostic and prognostic marker. The origin of CRP in this setting remains to be elucidated.

Methods and Results—

Monoclonal anti-CRP identified CRP expression in medial and intimal α-actin–positive smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of diseased CABGs with type V and VI lesions and also of native saphenous veins of atherosclerotic individuals. In addition, patent coronary arteries with type IV and V but not with type I through III lesions exhibited intense SMC staining for CRP. Calcified desobliterates of occluded coronary arteries with end-stage disease did not show SMC staining for CRP and were consistently negative for CRP mRNA, as detected by means of real-time polymerase chain reaction. However, CRP mRNA was expressed in 11 of 15 diseased CABGs and also in 10 of 15 native veins. By contrast, only 3 of 18 internal mammary and 4 of 12 radial arteries with virtually no atherosclerosis were positive for CRP mRNA.

Conclusions—

CRP is produced by SMCs of atherosclerotic lesions with active disease but not in end-stage plaques. The role of CRP constitutively expressed by normal vascular tissue in vein graft disease has yet to be elucidated.
Effects of Inhibition of Basal Nitric Oxide Synthesis on Carotid-Femoral Pulse Wave Velocity and Augmentation Index in Humans
Authors: Stewart Andrew D. , Millasseau Sandrine C. , Kearney Mark T. , Ritter James M. , Chowienczyk Philip J.
Published: September 2003

Aortic stiffness, as measured by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), is a powerful, independent predictor of vascular risk. PWV in muscular arteries is influenced by basal nitric oxide (NO) release. It is not known whether NO also influences carotid-femoral PWV. We examined the effects of an NO synthase inhibitor,
N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine (L-NMMA), on carotid-femoral PWV and aortic augmentation index (AIx, an indirect measure of arterial stiffness). To control for effects of L-NMMA on distending pressure, we used doses of norepinephrine and dobutamine that caused similar changes in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). Healthy men (32 to 48 years old, n=8) were studied on 4 occasions and received, in random order, vehicle, L-NMMA (3 mg · kg
−1
by intravenous bolus followed by 3 mg · kg
−1
· h
−1
), norepinephrine (50 ng · kg
−1
· min
−1
), and dobutamine (2.5 to 10 μg · kg
−1
· min
−1
), each for 30 minutes. PWV and AIx were measured by carotid-femoral PWV and radial tonometry, respectively. L-NMMA and norepinephrine increased MAP by 7.8±1.7 and 9.7±2.1 mm Hg, respectively (each
P
<0.05 vs vehicle) and increased PWV by 0.7±0.2 and 1.0±0.3 m · s
−1
(each
P
<0.01 vs vehicle). Dobutamine, at doses that produced a similar increase in MAP (9.6±2.9 mm Hg), increased PWV by 0.8±0.2 m · s
−1
(
P
<0.01 vs vehicle). Changes in PWV caused by the 3 pressor agents were closely correlated with changes in MAP (
R
>0.99,
P
<0.0001). L-NMMA and norepinephrine increased AIx, but dobutamine decreased AIx (
P
<0.01 vs norepinephrine and L-NMMA). Effects of inhibition of basal NO release on carotid-femoral PWV can be explained by the change in MAP that this causes rather than any specific effect of NO inhibition within the aorta.
Comparison of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Transesophageal Echocardiography in Detection of Thrombus in the Left Atrial Appendage
Authors: Ohyama Hideo , Hosomi Naohisa , Takahashi Tsutomu , Mizushige Katsufumi , Osaka Kunihiko , Kohno Masakazu , Koziol James A.
Published: September 2003

Background and Purpose—

A noninvasive technique of visualizing the left atrial appendage (LAA) and its thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation would be of great interest. This study examined the utility of MRI for the assessment of thrombus in the LAA.

Methods—

We evaluated 50 subjects with nonrheumatic continuous atrial fibrillation and a history of cardioembolic stroke. Each patient received an MRI and a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) on the same day for thrombus detection in the LAA. Both double- and triple-inversion recovery sequences were used for the MRI evaluations.

Results—

In all subjects, the LAA was readily visualized with MRI. High-intensity masses in the LAA were clearly distinguishable from the LAA wall in the triple–inversion recovery sequences. Concordance between detection of high-intensity mass with MRI and thrombus with TEE was high: no mass (MRI), no thrombus (TEE), 31 patients; mass (MRI), thrombus (TEE), 16 patients; and mass (MRI), no thrombus (TEE), 3 patients (overall κ=0.876, SE=0.068).

Conclusions—

MRI is a noninvasive and reproducible modality for thrombus detection in the LAA of patients with nonrheumatic continuous atrial fibrillation and previous cardioembolic stroke.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Donepezil in Vascular Dementia
Authors: Black Sandra , Román Gustavo C. , Geldmacher David S. , Salloway Stephen , Hecker Jane , Burns Alistair , Perdomo Carlos , Kumar Dinesh , Pratt Raymond
Published: September 2003

Background and Purpose—

Clinical observations suggest that patients with vascular dementia (VaD) may benefit from treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of donepezil for relieving symptoms of dementia in VaD.

Methods—

Patients (n=603; mean age, 73.9 years; 55.2% men) with probable (70.5%) or possible (29.5%) VaD, according to criteria of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and the
Association Internationale pour la Recherche et l’Enseignement en Neurosciences
(AIREN), were randomized to 24 weeks of treatment with donepezil 5 mg/d (n=198), donepezil 10 mg/d (5 mg/d for first 28 days; n=206), or placebo (n=199). Analyses were based on the intent-to-treat population.

Results—

At week 24, both donepezil groups showed significant improvement in cognition versus placebo on the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale–cognitive subscale (mean change from baseline score effect size: donepezil 5 mg/d, −1.90;
P
=0.001; donepezil 10 mg/d, −2.33;
P
<0.001). Significant improvements in patients’ global function were seen versus placebo at week 24 (observed cases), on the Clinician’s Interview-Based Impression of Change–Plus version only for patients on donepezil 5 mg/d (
P
=0.014), and on the Sum of the Boxes of the Clinical Dementia Rating only for patients on 10 mg/d (
P
=0.007). Donepezil-treated patients showed significant benefits in activities of daily living over placebo on the Alzheimer’s Disease Functional Assessment and Change Scale (mean change from baseline score effect size at week 24: donepezil 5 mg/d, −1.31,
P
=0.02; donepezil 10 mg/d, −1.31,
P
=0.02). Donepezil was well tolerated. Withdrawal rates due to adverse events were relatively low (placebo, 11.1%; donepezil 5 mg/d, 11.1%; donepezil 10 mg/d, 21.8%;
P
=0.005 versus placebo).

Conclusions—

These data demonstrate that donepezil is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for VaD and show it may have an important place in the management of this condition.
The Taste of Boredom
Authors: Finkelstein Joanne
Published: September 2003

The idea of food as a source of amusement has been parallel to the experience of eating since gastronomy began. Turning the eating of food into entertainment has encouraged further developments in the culture industries. At the same time, making food a form of amusement means that it can also become a source of boredom. Consumers experience food fatigue just as they experience other forms of sensory and intellectual overload. This article explores the idea that the cultural reworking of food as entertainment also generates new experiences of detachment, boredom, and ennui.
Deletion of alanine 2201 in the FVIII C2 domain results in mild hemophilia A by impairing FVIII binding to VWF and phospholipids and destroys a major FVIII antigenic determinant involved in inhibitor development
Authors: d'Oiron Roseline , Lavergne Jean-Maurice , Lavend'homme Renaud , Benhida Abdellah , Bordet Jean-Claude , Negrier Claude , Peerlinck Kathelijne , Vermylen Jos , Saint-Remy Jean-Marie , Jacquemin Marc
Published: September 2003

The C2 domain of factor VIII (FVIII) mediates FVIII binding to von Willebrand factor (VWF) and phospholipids (PLs), thereby determining the stability and the activity of FVIII. A deletion of Ala2201 (Del2201) was identified in the FVIII C2 domain of 2 unrelated patients with mild hemophilia A (FVIII:C 11%-33%). This mutation prevents FVIII binding to a human monoclonal antibody recognizing the C2 domain and inhibiting FVIII binding to VWF and phospholipids. By comparison to healthy FVIII, Del2201 FVIII had a significantly reduced binding to VWF, which likely contributes to reduced FVIII levels in plasma. Del2201 FVIII interaction with phospholipids was evaluated in an FXa generation assay, using various concentrations of synthetic phospholipid vesicles mimicking an activated platelet surface. At the lowest phospholipid concentration allowing FXa generation, Del2201 FVIII activity was reduced 3-fold. This is the first report of a mutation altering FVIII binding to phospholipids and occurring in patients with hemophilia A.
Platelet ADP receptors contribute to the initiation of intravascular coagulation
Authors: Leon Catherine , Alex Meike , Klocke Antje , Morgenstern Eberhard , Moosbauer Christine , Eckly Anita , Spannagl Michael , Gachet Christian , Engelmann Bernd
Published: September 2003

While the adenosine 5′-diphosphate (ADP) pathway is known to enhance thrombus formation by recruiting platelets and leukocytes to the primary layer of collagen-adhering platelets, its role for the initiation of coagulation has not been revealed. Ex vivo inhibition of the P2Y12 ADP receptor by clopidogrel administration diminished the rapid exposure of tissue factor (TF), the major initiator of coagulation, in conjugates of platelets with leukocytes established by the contact of whole blood with fibrillar collagen. Under in vitro conditions, the P2Y12 and P2Y1 ADP receptors were both found to be implicated in the exposure of TF in collagen-activated whole blood. Immunoelectron-microscopy revealed that collagen elicited the release of TF from its storage pools within the platelets. Functional activation of the intravascular TF was reduced by inhibition of the ADP receptors, partially due to the disruption of the platelet-neutrophil adhesions. Injection of collagen into the venous system of mice increased the number of thrombin-antithrombin complexes, indicative for the formation of thrombin in vivo. In P2Y1-deficient mice, the ability of collagen to enhance the generation of thrombin was impaired. In conclusion, the platelet ADP pathway supports the initiation of intravascular coagulation, which is likely to contribute to the concomitant formation of fibrin at the site of the growing thrombus.
Clinical course of patients with WASP gene mutations
Authors: Imai Kohsuke , Morio Tomohiro , Zhu Yi , Jin Yinzhu , Itoh Sukeyuki , Kajiwara Michiko , Yata Jun-ichi , Mizutani Shuki , Ochs Hans D. , Nonoyama Shigeaki
Published: September 2003

Mutations of the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASP) gene result either in the classic Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) or in a less severe form, X-linked thrombocytopenia (XLT). A phenotype-genotype correlation has been reported by some but not by other investigators. In this study, we characterized WASP gene mutations in 50 Japanese patients and analyzed the clinical phenotype and course of each. All patients with missense mutations were WASP-positive. In contrast, patients with nonsense mutations, large deletions, small deletions, and small insertions were WASP-negative. Patients with splice anomalies were either WASP-positive or WASP-negative. The clinical phenotype of each patient was correlated with the presence or absence of WASP. Lack of WASP expression was associated with susceptibility to bacterial, viral, fungal, and Pneumocystis carinii infections and with severe eczema, intestinal hemorrhage, death from intracranial bleeding, and malignancies. Rates for overall survival and survival without intracranial hemorrhage or other serious complications were significantly lower in WASP-negative patients. This analysis provides evidence for a strong phenotype-genotype correlation and demonstrates that WAS protein expression is a useful tool for predicting long-term prognosis for patients with WAS/XLT. Based on data presented here, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation should be considered, especially for WASP-negative patients, while the patients are young to improve prognosis.
Marked elevation of the chemokine CCL18/PARC in Gaucher disease: a novel surrogate marker for assessing therapeutic intervention
Authors: Boot Rolf G. , Verhoek Marri , de Fost Maaike , Hollak Carla E. M. , Maas Mario , Bleijlevens Boris , van Breemen Marielle J. , van Meurs Marjan , Boven Leonie A. , Laman Jon D. , Moran Mary Teresa , Cox Timothy M. , Aerts Johannes M. F. G.
Published: September 2003

Gaucher disease is characterized by storage of glucosylceramide in lysosomes of tissue macrophages as the result of an autosomal recessively inherited deficiency in glucocerebrosidase. Progressive accumulation of these glycolipid-laden Gaucher cells causes a variety of debilitating symptoms. The disease can be effectively treated by costly intravenous infusions with recombinant glucocerebrosidase. Chitotriosidase is massively secreted by Gaucher cells and its plasma levels are used to monitor efficacy of enzyme therapy. Broad-scale application is hampered by the common genetic defect in this surrogate marker. We report that in plasma of symptomatic patients with Gaucher disease the chemokine CCL18 is on average 29-fold elevated, without overlap between patient and control values (median control plasma level is 33 ng/mL, range, 10-72 ng/mL; median Gaucher plasma level is 948 ng/mL, range, 237-2285 ng/mL). Plasma CCL18 concentrations decrease during therapy, comparably to chitotriosidase levels. Immunohistochemistry demonstrates that Gaucher cells are the prominent source of CCL18. Plasma CCL18 levels can serve as alternative surrogate marker for storage cells in patients with Gaucher disease and monitoring of plasma CCL18 levels proves to be useful in determination of therapeutic efficacy, especially in patients who are deficient in chitotriosidase activity. The potential physiologic consequences of chronically elevated CCL18 in patients with Gaucher disease are discussed.
FLT3 ligand causes autocrine signaling in acute myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Zheng Rui , Levis Mark , Piloto Obdulio , Brown Patrick , Baldwin Brenda R. , Gorin Norbert C. , Beran Miloslav , Zhu Zhenping , Ludwig Dale , Hicklin Dan , Witte Larry , Li Yiwen , Small Donald
Published: September 2003

The FLT3 receptor tyrosine kinase is highly expressed in most acute leukemias and frequently mutated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The mutated form of the receptor is constitutively activated and known to play an important role in AML, but the activation state of the overexpressed wild-type (wt) receptor is, at present, unknown. In this study, we examined the activation state of the wild-type receptor in AML. We found that the wild-type receptor was constitutively phosphorylated/activated in 8 of 12 primary AML samples and 4 of 13 leukemia cell lines. To explain why wtFLT3 is often activated, we investigated the expression of its ligand, FL, by these same cells. Coexpression of FL with FLT3 was a universal finding in both primary AML samples and leukemic-derived cell lines. To further prove that autocrine signaling was accounting for the activation, we showed that conditioned media but not fresh media was able to activate FLT3. In addition, an antibody that blocks binding of ligand to the receptor blocks FLT3 activation. Finally, depletion of FL from conditioned media is able to block the activation of FLT3. Taken together, these findings represent strong evidence that wtFLT3 is often constitutively activated in AML and thus, like its mutated form, might contribute to the altered signaling that characterizes leukemogenesis.
Neonatal gene transfer with a retroviral vector results in tolerance to human factor IX in mice and dogs
Authors: Zhang Jun , Xu Lingfei , Haskins Mark E. , Parker Ponder Katherine
Published: September 2003

The effect of neonatal gene transfer on antibody formation was determined using a retroviral vector (RV) expressing human factor IX (hFIX). Normal mice from different strains injected intravenously with RV as newborns achieved therapeutic levels of hFIX without antibody production and were tolerant as adults to challenge with hFIX. Neonatal hemophilia B mice that received different amounts of RV achieved stable and dose-related expression of hFIX without anti-hFIX antibody formation. After protein challenge, antibody formation was markedly reduced for animals that expressed hFIX at levels higher than 14 ng/mL (0.3% of normal). However, antibodies developed for animals that received the lowest dose of RV and expressed hFIX at approximately 2 ng/mL before protein challenge. In dogs, neonatal injection of a high dose of RV resulted in 500 ng/mL hFIX in plasma without antibody formation. We conclude that neonatal gene transfer with RV does not induce antibody responses to hFIX in mice or dogs and that mice achieving levels greater than 3 × 10–10 M hFIX are usually tolerant to protein injection as adults. Low-dose gene therapy or frequent protein injections in the neonatal period might induce tolerance to subsequent injections of protein with a low risk for adverse effects.
Selective inactivation of CCR5 and decreased infectivity of R5 HIV-1 strains mediated by opioid-induced heterologous desensitization
Authors: Szabo Imre , Wetzel Michele A , Zhang Ning , Steele Amber D , Kaminsky David E , Chen Chongguang , Liu-Chen Lee-Yuan , Bednar Filip , Henderson Earl E , Howard O M Zack , Oppenheim Joost J , Rogers Thomas J
Published: September 2003

The opiates are well-established immunomodulatory factors, and recent evidence suggests that μ- and δ-opioid receptor ligands alter chemokine-driven chemotactic responses through the process of heterologous desensitization. In the present report, we sought to examine the capacity of μ- and δ-opioids to modulate the function of chemokine receptors CCR5 and CXCR4, the two major human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coreceptors. We found that the chemotactic responses to the CCR1/5 ligand CCL5/regulated on activation, normal T expressed and secreted, but not the CXCR4 ligand stromal cell-derived factor-1α/CXCL12 were inhibited following opioid pretreatment. Studies were performed with primary monocytes and Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with CCR5 and the μ-opioid receptor to determine whether cross-desensitization of CCR5 was a result of receptor internalization. Using radiolabeled-binding analysis, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy, we found that the heterologous desensitization of CCR5 was not associated with a significant degree of receptor internalization. Despite this, we found that the cross-desensitization of CCR5 by opioids was associated with a decrease in susceptibility to R5 but not X4 strains of HIV-1. Our findings are consistent with the notion that impairment of the normal signaling activity of CCR5 inhibits HIV-1 coreceptor function. These results have significant implications for our understanding of the effect of opioids on the regulation of leukocyte trafficking in inflammatory disease states and the process of coreceptor-dependent HIV-1 infection. The interference with HIV-1 uptake by heterologous desensitization of CCR5 suggests that HIV-1 interaction with this receptor is not passive but involves a signal transduction process.
Synaptotagmin IX, a possible linker between the perinuclear endocytic recycling compartment and the microtubules
Authors: Haberman Yael , Grimberg Elena , Fukuda Mitsunori , Sagi-Eisenberg Ronit
Published: September 2003

The pericentriolar endocytic recycling compartment (ERC) is involved in receptor and lipid recycling as well as in the delivery of internalized cargo from early endosomes to the trans Golgi network (TGN). We show that synaptotagmin (Syt) IX, a member of the Syt family of proteins, localizes to the ERC and is required for export from the ERC to the cell surface. We demonstrate that rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) mast cells endogenously express Syt IX mRNA and protein. Localization studies employing fractionation on linear sucrose gradients combined with confocal microscopy by indirect immunofluorescence or stable expression of a Syt IX-green fluorescent fusion protein demonstrate that Syt IX colocalizes with internalized transferrin (Tfn) and with Rab 11 at the perinuclear ERC. Syt IX also colocalizes with tubulin at the microtubules organizing center (MTOC) and remains associated with tubulin clusters formed in taxol-treated cells. Moreover, Syt IX coimmunoprecipitates with tubulin from intact RBL cells, and chimeric fusion proteins comprising either the C2A or the C2B domain of Syt IX are able to pull down tubulin from RBL cell lysates. To study the functional role of Syt IX, we have stably transfected RBL cells with Syt IX sense or antisense cDNA and monitored the routes of Tfn internalization and recycling in cells that overexpress (RBL-Syt IX+) or display substantially reduced (<90%) levels of Syt IX (RBL-Syt IX–). In these cells, Tfn binding and internalization into early endosomes and the ERC are unaltered. However, recycling from the ERC to the cell surface is significantly slowed down in the RBL-Syt IX– cells. These results therefore indicate that Syt IX is involved in regulating transport from the ERC to the cell surface, and suggest that it may play a role in linking vesicles that exit the ERC with the microtubules network.
Mutational analysis of the cytoplasmic domain of β1,4-galactosyltransferase I: influence of phosphorylation on cell surface expression
Authors: Hathaway Helen J. , Evans Susan C. , Dubois Daniel H. , Foote Cynthia I. , Elder Brooke H. , Shur Barry D.
Published: September 2003

β1,4-Galactosyltransferase I (GalT I) exists in two subcellular compartments where it performs two distinct functions. The majority of GalT I is localized in the Golgi complex where it participates in glycoprotein biosynthesis; however, a small portion of GalT I is expressed on the cell surface where it functions as a matrix receptor by binding terminal N-acetylglucosamine residues on extracellular glycoside ligands. The GalT I polypeptide occurs in two alternate forms that differ only in the length of their cytoplasmic domains. It is thought that the longer cytoplasmic domain is responsible for GalT I function as a cell surface receptor because of its ability to associate with the detergent-insoluble cytoskeleton. In this study, we demonstrate that the long GalT I cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains are capable of targeting a reporter protein to the plasma membrane, whereas the short cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains do not have this property. The surface-localized GalT I reporter protein partitions with the detergent-insoluble pool, a portion of which co-fractionates with caveolin-containing lipid rafts. Site-directed mutagenesis of the cytoplasmic domain identified a requirement for serine and threonine residues for cell surface expression and function. Replacing either the serine or threonine with aspartic acid reduces surface expression and function, whereas substitution with neutral alanine has no effect on surface expression or function. These results suggest that phosphorylation negatively regulates GalT I function as a surface receptor. Consistent with this, phosphorylation of the endogenous, full-length GalT I inhibits its stable expression on the cell surface. Thus, the 13 amino acid extension unique to the long GalT I isoform is required for GalT I expression on the cell surface, the function of which is regulated by phosphorylation.
A Simulink simulation framework of a MagLev model
Authors: Boudali H , Williams R. D. , Giras T. C.
Published: September 2003

This paper presents a three-degree-of-freedom model of a section of the magnetically levitated train MagLev. The MagLev system dealt with in this article utilizes electromagnetic levitation. Each MagLev vehicle section is viewed as two separate parts, namely a body and a chassis, coupled by a set of springs and dampers. The MagLev model includes the propulsion, the guidance and the levitation systems. The equations of motion are developed. A Simulink simulation framework is implemented in order to study the interaction between the different systems and the dynamics of a MagLev vehicle. The simulation framework will eventually serve as a tool to assist the design and development of the MagLev system in the United States of America.
Quantitation of free energy profiles in RNA–ligand interactions by nucleotide analog interference mapping
Authors: COCHRANE JESSE C. , BATEY ROBERT T. , STROBEL SCOTT A.
Published: September 2003

RNA interactions with protein and small molecule ligands serve a wide variety of biochemical functions in the cell. To best understand the specificity and affinity of these interactions, the free energy contribution made by individual function groups in the RNA must be determined. As an efficient method for obtaining such energetic profiles, we report quantitative nucleotide analog interference mapping (QNAIM). This extension of the NAIM methodology uses the magnitude of analog interference as a function of ligand concentration to calculate binding constants for RNA with individual analog substitutions. In this way, QNAIM not only defines which functional groups are important to an interaction but simultaneously determines the energetic contribution made by each occurrence of that functional group within the RNA polymer. To establish the utility of this approach, QNAIM was used to quantify functional group interactions within the signal recognition particle (SRP), specifically the 4.5S RNA with the M domain of Ffh. In each of the cases in which energetic data were available from previous site-specific substitution analyses, QNAIM provided nearly equivalent results. These experiments on a model system demonstrate that QNAIM is an efficient method to establish a chemically detailed free energy profile for a wide variety of RNA–ligand interactions.
The GW182 protein colocalizes with mRNA degradation associated proteins hDcp1 and hLSm4 in cytoplasmic GW bodies: FIGURE 1.
Authors: EYSTATHIOY THEOPHANY , JAKYMIW ANDREW , CHAN EDWARD K.L. , SÉRAPHIN BERTRAND , COUGOT NICOLAS , FRITZLER MARVIN J.
Published: September 2003

A novel cytoplasmic compartment referred to as GW bodies (GWBs) was initially identified using antibodies specific to a 182-kD protein termed GW182. GW182 was characterized by multiple glycine(G)-tryptophan(W) repeats and an RNA recognition motif (RRM) that bound a subset of HeLa cell messenger RNAs (mRNAs). The function of GWBs was not known; however, more recent evidence suggested similarities between GWBs and cytoplasmic structures that contain hLSm proteins and hDcp1, the human homolog to a yeast decapping enzyme subunit. In this study, we used antibodies to hLSm4 and hDcp1 to show that both of these markers of an mRNA degradation pathway colocalize to the same structures as GW182. Our studies demonstrate that GW182, hLSm4, and hDcp1 are found in the same cytoplasmic structures and suggest that GW182 is involved in the same mRNA processing pathway as hLSm4 and hDcp1.
G-quartet-dependent recognition between the FMRP RGG box and RNA
Authors: RAMOS ANDRES , HOLLINGWORTH DAVID , PASTORE ANNALISA
Published: September 2003

Fragile-X syndrome, the most common monogenic form of mental retardation, is caused by down-regulation of the expression of Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP). FMRP is a multifunctional, multidomain RNA-binding protein that acts as a translational repressor in neuronal cells. Interaction between FMRP and mRNA targets involves an RGG box, a protein motif commonly thought to mediate unspecific interactions with nucleic acids. Instead, FMRP RGG box has been shown to recognize RNA G-quartet structures specifically and to be necessary in neurons for RNP particle formation and dendritic mRNA localization. In the present study, we have characterized structurally three representative RNA targets of FMRP in their unbound form and in complex with the RGG box. We observe a large heterogeneity in the conformation of the RNA targets and in their RGG binding mode, which could be the basis of recognition specificity. We also found that G-quartet formation occurs not only intramolecularly but can also be mediated by RNA dimerization. These findings suggest a potential role of RNA:RNA interactions in protein:RNA complexes and in RNP particle assembly.
A Self‐Powered Reconfigurable Intelligent Metasurface
Authors: Mu Yajie , Chang Mingyang , Wang Xin , Han Jiaqi , Xia Dexiao , Ma Xiangjin , Liu Haixia , Li Long
Published: January 2024

In recent years, reconfigurable intelligent metasurface (RIS) has gained much attention due to its flexibility in modulating the phase, amplitude, and polarization of electromagnetic waves. It is widely used for wireless power and information transmission. However, RIS requires an external wired power supply or batteries to activate their modulation capabilities, as they do not generate the required energy themselves. This paper presents a self‐powered RIS that does not require an external wired power supply or batteries. The modulation capability is activated by harvesting radio frequency (RF) energy. The self‐powered RIS consists of an energy‐metatom, which is loaded with a PIN diode for flexible phase modulation. The inclusion of an absorber/energy port on the energy‐metatom allows for independent RF energy harvesting. The RIS consisting of energy‐metatoms can cut out all wired power supplies and batteries so that it can dynamically regulate electromagnetic waves by self‐powered means. As a proof‐of‐concept, a prototype composed of 10 × 10 energy‐metatoms is fabricated. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulated. This self‐powered RIS can be used as an “infinite‐lifetime” power supply for dynamic electromagnetic modulation in the RIS.
Ferrocene Appended Porphyrin‐Based Bipolar Electrode Material for High‐Performance Energy Storage
Authors: Chowdhury Shagor , Jana Saibal , Panguluri Sai. P. K. , Wenzel Wolfgang , Klayatskaya Svetlana , Ruben Mario
Published: January 2024

The versatile properties of bipolar organic electrode materials have attracted considerable attention in the field of electrochemical energy storage (EES). However, their practical application is hindered by their inherent limitations including low intrinsic electrical conductivity, low specific capacity, and high solubility. Herein, a bipolar organic molecule combining both porphyrin and ferrocene moieties (CuDEFcP) [5,15‐bis(ethynyl)‐10,20‐di ferrocenyl porphinato]copper(II)) has been developed. It is proposed as a new organic electrode material with multifunctional application for rechargeable organic lithium‐based batteries (ROLBs) and dual‐ion organic symmetric batteries (SDIBs). Superior performance was delivered as cathode material in lithium based dual‐ion batteries (LDIBs), with a high initial discharge capacity of 300 mAh. g−1 at 0.2 A. g−1 and a reversible capacity of 58 mAh. g−1 after 5000 cycles at 1 A. g−1. However, employing it as an anode material in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), a reversible capacity of 295 mAh. g−1 at 0.2 A. g−1 was delivered. In SDIBs, in which CuDEFcP is used as both anode and cathode, an average discharge voltage of 2.4 V and an energy density of 261 Wh.kg−1 were achieved.
The detection of PD‐L1 expression on liquid‐based cytology in pleural effusion of lung adenocarcinoma and its prognostic evaluation: Between paired liquid‐based cytology and cell block samples
Authors: Ma Haiyue , Jia Jia , Sun Zihan , Xiao Xiaoyue , Liang Shuo , Zhao Linlin , Zhang Zhihui
Published: January 2024

Background

Programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression levels measured by immunohistochemistry have been proven to predict the outcome of immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, data on PD‐L1 expression on liquid‐based cytology (LBC) in malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is scarce.

Methods

This study cohort included 60 cases with MPE suffering from LUAD. PD‐L1 SP263 assay was used for immunocytochemistry (ICC) on LBC and matched cell block (CB) to validate ICC protocols on LBC slides. Clinical outcomes were analyzed based on immunotherapy and PD‐L1 tumor proportion scores (TPS) on LBC slides and CBs.

Results

PD‐L1 expression with TPS ≥1% was lower in LBCs than in CBs (33 of 60 [55.0%] vs. 35 of 60 [58.3%]; p = .687). Even with the TPS ≥50% threshold, PD‐L1 expression was lower in LBCs (10 of 60 [16.7%] vs. 15 of 60 [25%]; p = .125). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 20 mutation, tumor cell proportion, and pleural fluid neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio were related to PD‐L1 expression on CBs (p = .013, p = 0.022, and p = .011), respectively. Patients with subsequent immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy remained a better prognostic in subgroups of PD‐L1 positive expression on LBC slides (TPS ≥1%, p = .041).

Conclusions

LBC specimens had comparable performance to CBs in PD‐L1 assessment and predicting treatment response to PD‐L1‐defined therapy.
The principal component analysis of key and significant features of the safety and nutritional value of Mahyaveh sauce
Authors: Ghayoomi Hoda , Edalatian Dovom Mohammad Reza , Habibi Najafi Mohammad Bagher , Pourfarzad Amir
Published: January 2024

The objective of present research is to evaluate the changes in the chemical, microbial, and biogenic amines in Persian fish sauce (Mahyaveh) during 40 days of fermentation. In the current survey, the parameters of salt percentage, pH, total nitrogen concentration, amino nitrogen concentration, Brix, color features, cadaverine, and histamine concentration were measured in the fish sauce. The amino nitrogen content, total protein, Brix, and salt were increased along with the progression of fermentation process. The microbial population of Mahyaveh sauce demonstrated that lactic acid bacteria (LAB), total bacterial count, and Enterobacteriaceae decreased during fermentation. The population of lactic acid bacteria and the total count of bacteria were around one logarithmic cycle lower in the presence of 10% salt than under low salt conditions. Histamine and cadaverine concentrations increased to 43.49 and 42.76 mg/kg during the fermentation period, respectively. As a result, the population density of histamine‐producing bacteria rose from 3.00 log CFU/mL at the beginning to 4.58 log CFU/mL at the end of process. The population density of cadaverine‐producing bacteria was 3.43 and 5.24 log CFU/mL on the 20th and 40th days of fermentation, respectively. Sensory evaluation results indicated that our sample of fish sauce had an overall acceptability score of 5.1 (good). On the other hand, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) demonstrated a positive correlation between the most of chemical parameters and the fermentation period. The concentration of cadaverine and histamine has a positive association with the pH and type of bacteria producing the biogenic amines.
The quality evaluation of 30 Asparagus officinalis L. varieties
Authors: Gao Rui , Li Guanghui , Liu Pingxiang , Gao Lei , Bi Jingxiu , Jiang Yuying , Liu Honglei , Wang Yutao
Published: January 2024

Asparagus, a vital economic contributor, is a well‐liked vegetable grown around the globe, and some secondary metabolites in its spear are beneficial to human health. Asparagus spears possess a significant quantity of nutrients and phytochemicals; however, the difference in these chemical compositions among various varieties has not been sufficiently studied. This work aimed to detect the chemical compositions of 30 varieties of asparagus and to assess them by principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that the contents of these chemical compositions varied in varieties. Selenium (Se, 1.12–2.9 μg/100 g dry‐weight [DW]) was abundant in asparagus, with an average dry matter content of 8.25%. Free amino acids (5.60–9.98 g/100 g DW) and polyphenols (6.34–8.67 mg/g DW) were both present in high amounts, along with flavonoids (4.218–8.22 mg/g DW) and protodioscin (0.44–1.96 mg/g DW). Correlation analysis, PCA, and hierarchical cluster analysis were used to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of asparagus. Atlas, Appolo, Jinggang 111, Jingke 2, and WS‐1 were the top five varieties with comprehensive scores. This study provided valuable data for the breeding, quality improvement, processing, and utilization of asparagus varieties in the future.
Physics‐informed deep learning study for MHD particle‐fluid suspension flow with heat transfer in porous annular‐sector duct
Authors: Mekheimer Khaled Saad , Mohamed El‐Sayed Mohamed Obeid , Akbar Noreen Sher , Gouda Ashraf A.
Published: January 2024

Thermal enhancement remains a critical requirement in different engineering applications. Many factors can affect the efficiency of the techniques used for this aim. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of particle‐fluid suspensions with heat transfer through porous annular‐sector duct on enhancement techniques and address the potential application of deep learning to suspension problems. The analysis is focused on the fully developed region of the forced convection flow. Thermal and rheological properties of particle‐fluid suspensions were studied using physics‐informed neural networks exploiting transfer learning capabilities for making parameter analysis. Another finite element solution was introduced as a measure of accuracy and to support our findings. Results were prepared in a comparative manner for both solvers including contour plots, tabular, and two dimensional figures. The average Nusselt number and friction factors were calculated for different cases to investigate the value of the thermal performance factor. Our results indicate the downside of suspensions on thermal enhancement and their negative impact on other techniques.