bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Fitness and Reverse Cholesterol Transport
Authors: Olchawa Beata , Kingwell Bronwyn A. , Hoang Anh , Schneider Laurence , Miyazaki Osamu , Nestel Paul , Sviridov Dmitri
Published: April 2004

Background—

Physical exercise is associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, which may be partly caused by the effect of exercise on the lipoprotein profile. The most consistent effect of exercise on lipoprotein metabolism is an increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Methods and Results—

Parameters of reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) in 25 endurance-trained male athletes were compared with 33 age-matched males enjoying an active lifestyle. V
o
2
max was higher in athletes than in controls (53.4±1.2 versus 38.8±1.0 mL/min per kg;
P
<0.01). The following differences in parameters of RCT were found: (1) plasma HDL cholesterol and apoA-I levels were higher in athletes compared with controls (1.7±0.1 versus 1.4±0.1 mmol/L;
P
<0.001; and 145±2 versus 128±3 mg/dL;
P
<0.001, respectively). Both correlated with V
o
2
max up to the value of 51 mL/min per kg; (2) preβ
1
-HDL was higher in athletes than in controls (54±4 versus 37±3 μg/mL;
P
<0.001) and correlated positively with V
o
2
max; (3) lecithin cholesterol: acyltransferase activity was higher in athletes (29.8±1.2 versus 24.2±1.4 nmol/μL per hour;
P
<0.005); and (4) the capacity of plasma to promote cholesterol efflux from macrophages was higher in athletes (18.8%±0.8% versus 16.2%±0.3%;
P
<0.03).

Conclusions—

The likely reason for higher HDL concentration in physically fit people is increased formation of HDL from apoA-I and cellular lipids.
One-Year Clinical Results With the Slow-Release, Polymer-Based, Paclitaxel-Eluting TAXUS Stent
Authors: Stone Gregg W. , Ellis Stephen G. , Cox David A. , Hermiller James , O’Shaughnessy Charles , Mann James Tift , Turco Mark , Caputo Ronald , Bergin Patrick , Greenberg Joel , Popma Jeffrey J. , Russell Mary E.
Published: April 2004

Background—

The safety and efficacy of the slow-release, polymer-based, paclitaxel-eluting stent after implantation in a broad cross section of de novo coronary lesions at 1 year are unknown.

Methods and Results—

In the TAXUS-IV trial, 1314 patients with single de novo coronary lesions 10 to 28 mm in length, with reference-vessel diameter 2.5 to 3.75 mm, coverable by a single study stent, were prospectively randomized to the slow-release, polymer-based, paclitaxel-eluting TAXUS stent or an identical-appearing bare-metal EXPRESS stent. By actuarial analysis, the TAXUS stent compared with the bare-metal stent reduced the 12-month rates of target-lesion revascularization by 73% (4.4% versus 15.1%,
P
<0.0001), target-vessel revascularization by 62% (7.1% versus 17.1%,
P
<0.0001), target-vessel failure by 52% (10.0% versus 19.4%,
P
<0.0001), and composite major adverse cardiac events by 49% (10.8% versus 20.0%,
P
<0.0001). The 1-year rates of cardiac death (1.4% versus 1.3%), myocardial infarction (3.5% versus 4.7%), and subacute thrombosis (0.6% versus 0.8%) were similar between the paclitaxel-eluting and control stents, respectively. Between 9 and 12 months, there were significantly fewer myocardial infarctions (0% versus 1.1%,
P
=0.007), target-vessel revascularizations (2.4% versus 5.8%,
P
=0.002), and major adverse cardiac events (2.4% versus 6.3%,
P
=0.0009) in the paclitaxel-eluting stent than in the control stent group, respectively.

Conclusions—

The relative efficacy reported at 9 months for the polymer-based, paclitaxel-eluting TAXUS stent compared with the EXPRESS stent is preserved and continues to increase at 1 year, with no safety concerns apparent.
Aldosterone Enhances Ischemia-Induced Neovascularization Through Angiotensin II–Dependent Pathway
Authors: Michel Frédéric , Ambroisine Marie-Lory , Duriez Micheline , Delcayre Claude , Levy Bernard I. , Silvestre Jean-Sébastien
Published: April 2004

Background—

We analyzed the role of aldosterone in ischemia-induced neovascularization and the involvement of angiotensin II (Ang II) signaling in this effect.

Methods and Results—

Ischemia was induced by right femoral artery ligature in mice treated or not with aldosterone (4.5 μg/day), aldosterone plus spironolactone (aldosterone receptor blocker; 20 mg/kg per day), or aldosterone plus valsartan (angiotensin type 1 [AT
1
] receptor blocker; 20 mg/kg per day). After 21 days, neovascularization was evaluated by microangiography, capillary density measurement, and laser-Doppler perfusion imaging. Protein level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was determined by Western blot analysis in hindlimbs. mRNA levels of renin–angiotensin system components were also assessed by semiquantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Angiographic score, capillary number, and foot perfusion were improved in ischemic/nonischemic leg ratio by 1.4-, 1.5-, and 1.4-fold, respectively, in aldosterone-treated mice compared with controls (
P
<0.05). Aldosterone proangiogenic effect was associated with 2.3-fold increase in VEGF protein content (
P
<0.05). Treatments with spironolactone or with neutralizing VEGF antibody hampered the proangiogenic effect of aldosterone (
P
<0.05 versus aldosterone-treated mice). Interestingly, AT
1
receptor blockade completely abrogated the aldosterone proangiogenic effect, emphasizing the involvement of Ang II–related pathway in aldosterone-induced vessel growth. In this view, angiotensinogen mRNA content was 2.2-fold increased in aldosterone-treated mice in reference to controls (
P
<0.05), whereas that of renin, angiotensin-converting enzyme, and AT
1
receptor subtype was unaffected. Aldosterone treatment also decreased AT
2
mRNA content by 2-fold (
P
<0.05 versus controls), suggesting that aldosterone may switch the Ang II pathway toward activation of vessel growth.

Conclusions—

This study shows for the first time that aldosterone increases neovascularization in the setting of ischemia through activation of Ang II signaling.
High-Density Lipoproteins Neutralize C-Reactive Protein Proinflammatory Activity
Authors: Wadham Carol , Albanese Nathaniel , Roberts Jane , Wang Lijun , Bagley Christopher J. , Gamble Jennifer R. , Rye Kerry-Anne , Barter Philip J. , Vadas Mathew A. , Xia Pu
Published: April 2004

Background—

C-reactive protein (CRP), a well-recognized marker of atherosclerosis, has recently been suggested to have a direct proinflammatory effect. The constitutive expression of low levels of CRP in normal plasma suggests the likelihood that a natural factor exists to neutralize the effect of CRP. This factor(s) has not yet been identified.

Method and Results—

The proinflammatory effect of CRP was measured by the induction of inflammatory adhesion molecules in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We show that CRP significantly induced upregulation of adhesion molecules in both protein and mRNA levels. The CRP-induced expression of these inflammatory adhesion molecules was completely suppressed when the cells were preincubated with a physiological concentration (1 mg/mL apolipoprotein A-I) of HDLs derived from human plasma (native HDL) or reconstituted HDL (rHDL) at a very low concentration (0.01 mg/mL apolipoprotein A-I). A novel mechanism of HDL inhibition is likely to operate, because (1) rHDL was 100 times more potent than native HDL, (2) preincubation with HDL and its sustained presence were obligatory, and (3) oxidized 1-palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-
sn
-glycero-3-phosphocholine was the fundamental active component.

Conclusions—

The CRP-induced upregulation of inflammatory adhesion molecules in HUVECs was completely prevented by HDL via their oxidized phospholipid components.
Peri-Implantation Undernutrition Programs Blunted Angiotensin II Evoked Baroreflex Responses in Young Adult Sheep
Authors: Gardner David S. , Pearce Sarah , Dandrea Jennifer , Walker Ronald , Ramsay Margaret M. , Stephenson Terence , Symonds Michael E.
Published: April 2004

An adverse environment around conception and implantation influences later fetal growth and development to term in humans and sheep. Indeed, preimplantation undernutrition of rats elevated the systolic blood pressure of the resultant adult offspring. In this study, adult cardiovascular function is examined in a slower growing, non–litter-bearing species after peri-implantation undernutrition. Eight ewes were fed to 50% equivalent food intake of 12 control ewes from 1 to 30 days (term ≈147 days) only. Following consumption of an adequate diet to term, natural lambing, and then weaning, resting cardiovascular status and baroreflex function were examined in the resultant young adult offspring. Birth weight and postnatal growth to 1 year of age were unaffected by early undernutrition; however, nutrient-restricted sheep had increased pulse pressure, a reduced rate pressure product, and a leftward shift in their baroreflex function curve. Baroreflex sensitivity during angiotensin II infusion was also blunted in early nutrient-restricted sheep but the tachycardia following a reduction in central blood pressure appeared potentiated, relative to controls. The data suggest that peri-implantation undernutrition may program long-term cardiovascular dysfunction that ultimately increases the risk of hypertension later in life. An increase in regional angiotensin II activity during this critical early phase of development is a likely candidate mechanism for the effects observed. The data have broad implications for the health outcome of those offspring from mothers who were poorly nourished during early, often unknown pregnancy and for embryos artificially manipulated because of infertility treatment.
Outcome of Acute Stroke Patients Without Visible Occlusion on Early Arteriography
Authors: Arnold Marcel , Nedeltchev Krassen , Brekenfeld Caspar , Fischer Urs , Remonda Luca , Schroth Gerhard , Mattle Heinrich
Published: April 2004

Background—

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical and radiological outcome of acute stroke patients who had no vessel occlusion on arteriography and to define predictors of clinical outcome.

Methods—

We analyzed clinical and radiological data of stroke patients whose arteriography performed within 6 hours of symptom onset did not visualize any vessel occlusion.

Results—

Twenty-eight of 283 consecutive patients (10%) who underwent arteriography with the intention to perform intraarterial thrombolysis did not show any arterial occlusion. Their median baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was 7. Time from symptom onset to arteriography ranged from 115 to 315 minutes; on average, it was 226 minutes. Presumed stroke cause was cardiac embolism in 11 patients (39%), small artery disease in 6 (21%), coronary angiography in 1 (4%), and undetermined in 10 patients (36%). After 3 months, modified Rankin Scale score (mRS) was ≤2 in 21 patients (75%), indicating a favorable outcome. Six patients (21%) had a poor outcome (mRS 3 or 4) and 1 patient (4%) had a myocardial infarction and died. Twenty-seven patients had follow-up brain imaging. It was normal in 5, showed a lacunar lesion in 8, a striatocapsular infarct in 2, a small or medium-sized anterior circulation infarct in 6, multiple small anterior circulation infarcts in 2, and multiple posterior circulation infarcts in 4. No predictors of clinical outcome were identified.

Conclusions—

Most acute stroke patients with normal early arteriography show infarcts on brain imaging; however, clinical outcome is usually favorable.
Acarbose Slows Progression of Intima-Media Thickness of the Carotid Arteries in Subjects With Impaired Glucose Tolerance
Authors: Hanefeld Markolf , Chiasson Jean Louis , Koehler Carsta , Henkel Elena , Schaper Frank , Temelkova-Kurktschiev Theodora
Published: April 2004

Background and Purpose—

Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT)–a prediabetic state–is an important risk factor for atherosclerosis. Acarbose, an α-glucosidase inhibitor, was shown in the placebo-controlled prospective study to prevent noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (STOP-NIDDM) trial to reduce the risk of diabetes by 36% in IGT subjects. This article reports on a placebo-controlled subgroup analysis of the STOP-NIDDM study to examine the efficacy of acarbose to slow progression of intima-media thickness (IMT) in subjects with IGT.

Methods—

One hundred thirty-two IGT subjects were randomized to placebo (n=66) or acarbose (n=66) 100 mg 3 times daily; the study duration was at least 3 years, mean follow-up time 3.9 (SD 0.6) years. Carotid IMT was determined at study entry and the end of the trial. The intent-to-treat analysis included 56 subjects in the acarbose and 59 in the control group who had a baseline and endpoint measurement.

Results—

A significant reduction of the progression of IMT
mean
was observed in the acarbose group versus placebo. After an average time of 3.9 years, IMT
mean
increased by 0.02 (0.07) mm in the acarbose group versus 0.05 (0.06) mm in the placebo group (
P
=0.027). The annual increase of IMT
mean
was reduced by ≈50% in the acarbose group versus placebo. Multiple linear regression revealed IMT progression as significantly related to acarbose intake.

Conclusions—

Acarbose slows progression of IMT in IGT subjects, a high-risk population for diabetes and atherosclerosis. This is the first placebo-controlled prospective subgroup analysis, demonstrating that counterbalancing of postprandial hyperglycemia may be vasoprotective.
Hemostatic Function and Progressing Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Barber Mark , Langhorne Peter , Rumley Ann , Lowe Gordon D.O. , Stott David J.
Published: April 2004

Background and Purpose—

Early clinical progression of ischemic stroke is common and is associated with increased risk of death and dependency. We hypothesized that activation of the coagulation system is an important contributor in some cases of deterioration. We aimed to characterize alterations in circulating hemostatic markers in patients with progressing stroke.

Methods—

Consecutive acute ischemic stroke admissions were recruited. Progressing stroke was defined by deterioration in components of the Scandinavian Stroke Scale. Hemostatic markers (coagulation factors VIIc, VIIIc, and IXc, prothrombin fragments 1+2 [F1+2], thrombin–antithrombin complexes [TAT], D-dimer, fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor [vWF] and tissue plasminogen activator) were measured within 24 hours of symptom recognition.

Results—

Fifty-four (25%) of the 219 patients met criteria for progressing stroke. F1+2 (median 1.28 versus 1.06 nmol/L,
P
=0.01), TAT (5.28 versus 4.07 μg/L,
P
<0.01), D-dimer (443 versus 194 ng/mL,
P
<0.001) and vWF (216 versus 198 IU/dL,
P
<0.05) levels were higher in these patients than in stable/improving patients. In logistic regression analysis, with all important clinical and laboratory variables included, only natural log D-dimer (odds ratio [OR]: 1.87; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.38 to 2.54;
P
=0.0001) and mean arterial blood pressure (OR: 1.26 per 10 mm Hg change; 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.51;
P
=0.01) remained independent predictors of progressing stroke.

Conclusions—

There is evidence of excess thrombin generation and fibrin turnover in patients with progressing ischemic stroke. Measurement of D-dimer levels can identify patients at high risk for stroke progression. Further research is required to determine whether such patients benefit from acute interventions aimed at modifying hemostatic function.
Optimal B-cell proliferation requires phosphoinositide 3-kinase–dependent inactivation of FOXO transcription factors
Authors: Yusuf Isharat , Zhu Xiaocui , Kharas Michael G. , Chen Jing , Fruman David A.
Published: April 2004

Transcription factors of the Forkhead Box, class O (FOXO) family promote cell-cycle arrest and/or apoptosis in a variety of cell types. Mitogenic stimuli inactivate FOXO function by way of an evolutionarily conserved pathway involving the activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and its downstream effector, Akt. Although PI3K activation is required for B-lymphocyte proliferation, it is not known whether PI3K-dependent inactivation of FOXO proteins is important for cell-cycle progression and survival of these cells. Here, we show that B-cell receptor (BCR) engagement triggers PI3K-dependent phosphorylation and nuclear export of FOXO1. Furthermore, forced expression of PI3K-independent variants of FOXO1 or FOXO3a in activated B cells induces partial arrest in G1 phase of the cell cycle and increases apoptosis. These findings establish that FOXO inactivation is a functionally important consequence of PI3K signaling in primary B cells.
Reduction of the inhibitory antibody response to human factor VIII in hemophilia A mice by mutagenesis of the A2 domain B-cell epitope
Authors: Parker Ernest T. , Healey John F. , Barrow Rachel T. , Craddock Heather N. , Lollar Pete
Published: April 2004

Approximately 25% of patients with hemophilia A develop inhibitory antibodies after treatment with factor VIII. Most of the inhibitory activity is directed against epitopes in the A2 and C2 domains. Anti-A2 inhibitory antibodies recognize a 25-residue segment bounded by R484-I508. Several antigenic residues in this segment have been identified, including R484, R489, and P492. The immunogenicity of purified recombinant B domain–deleted (BDD) human factor VIII molecules containing mutations at R484A/R489A or R484A/R489A/P492A was studied in hemophilia A mice. Inhibitory antibody titers in mice receiving the R484A/R489A/P492A mutant, but not the R484A/R489A mutant, were significantly lower than in mice receiving control human BDD factor VIII. The specific coagulant activity and the in vivo clearance and hemostatic efficacy in hemophilia A mice of the R484A/R489A/P492A mutant were indistinguishable from human BDD factor VIII. Thus, the inhibitory antibody response to human factor VIII can be reduced by mutagenesis of a B-cell epitope without apparent loss of function, suggesting that this approach may be useful for developing a safer form of factor VIII in patients with hemophilia A.
Dexamethasone enhances LPS induction of tissue factor expression in human monocytic cells by increasing tissue factor mRNA stability
Authors: Reddy K Veera , Bhattacharjee Gourab , Schabbauer Gernot , Hollis Angela , Kempf Kevin , Tencati Michael , O'Connell Maria , Guha Mausumee , Mackman Nigel
Published: April 2004

Glucocorticoids, such as dexamethasone (Dex), are used clinically in the treatment of various inflammatory diseases. Dex acts by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). It is surprising that Dex enhances bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induction of tissue factor (TF) expression in human monocytic cells. TF is a transmembrane glycoprotein that activates the coagulation protease cascade. In this study, we analyze the mechanism by which Dex enhances LPS-induced TF expression in human monocytic cells. We found that Dex reduced LPS-induced TF gene transcription but increased the stability of TF mRNA. Dex decreased the stability of MCP-1 mRNA and did not affect TNF-α mRNA stability. Finally, we showed that Dex increased the stability of a transcript consisting of the final 297 nucleotides of the TF mRNA in in vitro decay assays. This region contains AU-rich elements that regulate mRNA stability and may mediate the Dex response. Therefore, despite an inhibition of TF gene transcription, Dex enhances TF expression in human monocytic cells by increasing the stability of TF mRNA.
Changes in Circulating and Testicular Levels of Inhibin A and B and Activin A During Postnatal Development in the Rat
Authors: Buzzard Jeremy J. , Loveland Kate L. , O’Bryan Moira K. , O’Connor Anne E. , Bakker Marilyn , Hayashi Tetsuo , Wreford Nigel G. , Morrison John R. , de Kretser David M.
Published: April 2004

This study describes the testicular levels of inhibin/activin subunits by Northern analysis and in situ hybridization and serum and testicular levels of inhibins A and B and activin A by enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) during postnatal development in the rat. We show that serum inhibin A levels are less than 4 pg/ml throughout postnatal life. Serum inhibin B levels peak at 572 ± 119 pg/ml (mean ± se) at d 40 post partum (pp) before falling to 182 ± 35 pg/ml in mature males. Serum activin A decreases from 294 ± 29 pg/ml at d 6 to 132 ± 27 pg/ml at maturity. Within the testis, inhibin A levels fall from 0.330 ± 0.108 ng/g at d 15 to less than 0.004 ng/g at maturity. Inhibin B levels peak at 43.9 ± 4.2 ng/g at d 6 before falling to 1.6 ± 0.13 ng/g at maturity. Testicular activin A levels fall from 18.6 ± 2.2 ng/g at d 6 to 0.094 ± 0.013 ng/g at maturity. Northern profiles of testicular inhibin/activin subunits correlate with immunoreactive levels demonstrated by ELISA. In situ hybridization suggests that βA and βB subunit expression is largely restricted to the seminiferous tubule, particularly Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, and primary spermatocytes. These data support the view that inhibin B is the major inhibin in the male rat and that levels relate to Sertoli cell number and activity. Furthermore, the demonstration of high local concentrations of activin A during the period of Sertoli cell proliferation and the onset of spermatogenesis support its proposed role because a modulator of testicular development and function.
Expression of Aromatase and Steroidogenic Factor 1 in the Lung of the Urodele Amphibian Pleurodeles waltl
Authors: Kuntz Sandra , Chardard Dominique , Chesnel Amand , Ducatez Mariette , Callier Martine , Flament Stephane
Published: April 2004

We report here the results of the analysis of aromatase and steroidogenic factor 1 (Sf1) expression in adult lung of the urodele amphibian Pleurodeles waltl. Using RT-PCR experiments, we show the expression of the estrogen-synthesizing enzyme, aromatase, in this organ. In the lung, no significant difference between males and females was observed in the level of aromatase mRNAs. Aromatase mRNA levels were also identical to those found in the brain or the testis, but the levels were 2-fold lower than in the ovary. Aromatase activity measurements revealed the presence of an active form of aromatase in the lung, which was similar in males and females. There was no difference in the level of aromatase activity between lung, brain, and testis, but a higher activity was measured in the ovary (13.7-fold compared with testis). Therefore, the differences in aromatase mRNA level between the ovary and the other organs did not mirror the differences in aromatase activity, suggesting the involvement of posttranslational events. Aromatase was also expressed in the lung of the anuran amphibian Xenopus laevis. In Pleurodeles lung, Sf1 mRNAs were also detected. There was no difference between males and females in the level of these mRNAs. The Sf1 mRNA levels were not significantly different from those measured in the brain, but a significant 2.1-fold higher level of expression was found in the gonads. These results demonstrate clearly the expression of steroidogenic markers in the adult lung of amphibians, but the biological significance of this remains to be determined.
BMP10 is essential for maintaining cardiac growth during murine cardiogenesis
Authors: Chen Hanying , Shi Shu , Acosta Lourdes , Li Weiming , Lu Jonathan , Bao Shideng , Chen Zhuang , Yang Zuocheng , Schneider Michael D. , Chien Kenneth R. , Conway Simon J. , Yoder Mervin C. , Haneline Laura S. , Franco Diego , Shou Weinian
Published: April 2004

During cardiogenesis, perturbation of a key transition at mid-gestation from cardiac patterning to cardiac growth and chamber maturation often leads to diverse types of congenital heart disease, such as ventricular septal defect (VSD), myocardium noncompaction, and ventricular hypertrabeculation. This transition, which occurs at embryonic day (E) 9.0-9.5 in murine embryos and E24-28 in human embryos, is crucial for the developing heart to maintain normal cardiac growth and function in response to an increasing hemodynamic load. Although, ventricular trabeculation and compaction are key morphogenetic events associated with this transition, the molecular and cellular mechanisms are currently unclear. Initially, cardiac restricted cytokine bone morphogenetic protein 10 (BMP10) was identified as being upregulated in hypertrabeculated hearts from mutant embryos deficient in FK506 binding protein 12 (FKBP12). To determine the biological function of BMP10 during cardiac development, we generated BMP10-deficient mice. Here we describe an essential role of BMP10 in regulating cardiac growth and chamber maturation. BMP10 null mice display ectopic and elevated expression of p57kip2and a dramatic reduction in proliferative activity in cardiomyocytes at E9.0-E9.5. BMP10 is also required for maintaining normal expression levels of several key cardiogenic factors (e.g. NKX2.5 and MEF2C) in the developing myocardium at mid-gestation. Furthermore, BMP10-conditioned medium is able to rescue BMP10-deficient hearts in culture. Our data suggest an important pathway that involves a genetic interaction between BMP10, cell cycle regulatory proteins and several major cardiac transcription factors in orchestrating this transition in cardiogenesis at mid-gestation. This may provide an underlying mechanism for understanding the pathogenesis of both structural and functional congenital heart defects.
Soluble form of amyloid precursor protein regulates proliferation of progenitors in the adult subventricular zone
Authors: Caillé Isabelle , Allinquant Bernadette , Dupont Edmond , Bouillot Colette , Langer Andreas , Müller Ulrike , Prochiantz Alain
Published: April 2004

The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a type I transmembrane protein of unknown physiological function. Its soluble secreted form (sAPP) shows similarities with growth factors and increases the in vitro proliferation of embryonic neural stem cells. As neurogenesis is an ongoing process in the adult mammalian brain, we have investigated a role for sAPP in adult neurogenesis. We show that the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricle, the largest neurogenic area of the adult brain, is a major sAPP binding site and that binding occurs on progenitor cells expressing the EGF receptor. These EGF-responsive cells can be cultured as neurospheres (NS). In vitro, EGF provokes soluble APP (sAPP) secretion by NS and anti-APP antibodies antagonize the EGF-induced NS proliferation. In vivo, sAPP infusions increase the number of EGF-responsive progenitors through their increased proliferation. Conversely, blocking sAPP secretion or downregulating APP synthesis decreases the proliferation of EGF-responsive cells, which leads to a reduction of the pool of progenitors. These results reveal a new function for sAPP as a regulator of SVZ progenitor proliferation in the adult central nervous system.
Review of Form-Finding Methods for Tensegrity Structures
Authors: Tibert A.G. , Pellegrino S.
Published: April 2004

Seven form-finding methods for tensegrity structures are reviewed and classified. The three kinematical methods include an analytical approach, a non-linear optimisation, and a pseudo-dynamic iteration. The four statical methods include an analytical method, the formulation of linear equations of equilibrium in terms of force densities, an energy minimisation, and a search for the equilibrium configurations of the struts of the structure connected by cables whose lengths are to be determined, using a reduced set of equilibrium equations. It is concluded that the kinematical methods are best suited to obtaining only configuration details of structures that are already essentially known. The force density method is best suited to searching for new configurations, but affords no control over the lengths of the elements of the structure. The reduced coordinates method offers a greater control on elements lengths, but requires more extensive symbolic manipulations.
The Stringer System — A Truss Model of Membrane Shells for Analysis and Design of Boundary Conditions
Authors: Almegaard Henrik
Published: April 2004

This paper deals with the problem: What sort of boundary conditions are to be prescribed on the edge of a shell that is to be in a statically determinate membrane state? Triangulated single layer trusses have been suggested as a model for membrane shells by (Calladine 1983) and have been investigated by (Szabo and Tarnai 1992). However, these efforts have not solved the problem completely.

The paper presents a triangular single layer truss system – the stringer system – which differs from the above mentioned models in two ways:

the systematic topology makes it relatively simple to control whether or not the system is statically and geometrically/kinematically determinate, the geometry corresponds to the curvature of the considered surface and ensures that the system can be applied as a valid static and geometric model for the membrane shell.

In most cases, the stringer system regarded as a static model of membrane shells leads to the same results as the theory of partial differential equations, as investigated by (Tarnai 1980a, 1981, 1983). However, some new boundary conditions for shells with positive and zero Gaussian curvature have been found and the types of supports and the connection between statical and geometrical determinacy have been further generalised.

The paper is based on parts of the Ph.D. Thesis by (Almegaard 2003).
Horizontal Earthquake Loading and Linear/Nonlinear Seismic Behaviour of Double Layer Barrel Vaults
Authors: Sadeghi Arjang
Published: April 2004

Lattice space structures are one of the most common choices for covering large areas. These structures are also used as temporary shelters after strong and destructive earthquakes. Nevertheless, there are not enough available research results on the seismic behaviour of these structures. In the current work, the dynamic characteristics of the double layer barrel vaults are studied. Linear and nonlinear behaviour of the barrel vaults are investigated. It is shown that the barrel vaults are vulnerable to earthquakes and show brittle behaviour and therefore need to be designed carefully. For simplifying the assessment procedure of the earthquake equivalent loading on the barrel vaults some formulae are presented.
Injectable‐Hydrogel‐Based Tissue Sealant for Hemostasis, Bacteria Inhibition, and Pro‐Angiogenesis in Organ Bleeding Wounds and Therapeutic Outcome Monitoring Via NIR‐II Optical Imaging
Authors: Sun Lihe , Ouyang Juan , She Zunpan , Li Rong , Zeng Fang , Yao Zhicheng , Wu Shuizhu
Published: January 2024

Sudden hemorrhage stemming from internal organ wounds poses a grave and potentially fatal risk if left untreated. Injectable‐hydrogel‐based tissue sealants featuring multiple actions, including fit‐to‐shape in situ gelation, rapid hemostasis, pro‐angiogenic, anti‐bacterial and outcome tracking, are ideal for the management of organ trauma wounds. Herein, an injectable‐hydrogel tissue sealant AN@CD‐PEG&TQ which consists of four‐arm 4‐arm poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG‐SC) succinimidyl carbonate), AN@CD nanoprobe, and two bioactive peptides (anti‐microbial peptide Tet213 and pro‐angiogenic peptide QK) is developed. Among them, AN@CD nanoparticles form through host/guest complexation of amino‐group‐containing β‐cyclodextrin and adamantyl group, enabling in situ biomarker (NO)‐activatable optoacoustic/NIR‐II: Near‐infrared second biological window fluorescent imaging. The ample ─NH2 groups on the surface of AN@CD readily engage in rapid cross‐linking with succinimidyl ester groups located at the ends of four‐arm PEG‐SC. This cross‐linking expedites the gelation process without necessitating additional initiators or cross‐linking agents; thus, significantly enhancing both hydrogel's application convenience and biocompatibility. Bioactive peptides (Tet213 and QK) safeguard against possible bacterial infections, facilitate angiogenesis, and eventually, improve organ wounds healing. This hydrogel‐based tissue sealant demonstrates superior therapeutic and bioimaging performance in various mouse models including liver hemorrhage, gastric perforation, and bacterial‐infected skin wound mouse models, highlighting its potential as a high‐performance wound sealant for organ bleeding wound management.
Highly Flexible, High‐Performance, and Stretchable Piezoelectric Sensor Based on a Hierarchical Droplet‐Shaped Ceramics with Enhanced Damage Tolerance
Authors: Xu Qianqian , Tao Yong , Wang Zhenxing , Zeng Hanmin , Yang Junxiao , Li Yuan , Zhao Senfeng , Tang Peiyuan , Zhang Jianxun , Yan Mingyang , Wang Qingping , Zhou Kechao , Zhang Dou , Xie Hui , Zhang Yan , Bowen Chris
Published: January 2024

Stretchable self‐powered sensors are of significant interest in next‐generation wearable electronics. However, current strategies for creating stretchable piezoelectric sensors based on piezoelectric polymers or 0–3 piezoelectric composites face several challenges such as low piezoelectric activity, low sensitivity, and poor durability. In this paper, a biomimetic soft‐rigid hybrid strategy is used to construct a new form of highly flexible, high‐performance, and stretchable piezoelectric sensor. Inspired by the hinged bivalve Cristaria plicata, hierarchical droplet‐shaped ceramics are manufactured and used as rigid components, where computational models indicate that the unique arched curved surface and rounded corners of this bionic structure can alleviate stress concentrations. To ensure electrical connectivity of the piezoelectric phase during stretching, a patterned liquid metal acts as a soft circuit and a silicone polymer with optimized wettability and stretchability serves as a soft component that forms a strong mechanical interlock with the hierarchical ceramics. The novel sensor design exhibits excellent sensitivity and durability, where the open circuit voltage remains stable after 5000 stretching cycles at 60% strain and 5000 twisting cycles at 180°. To demonstrate its potential in heathcare applications, this new stretchable sensor is successfully used for wireless gesture recognition and assessing the progression of knee osteoarthritis.
Sunlight‐Activated Hour‐Long Afterglow from Transparent and Flexible Polymers
Authors: Zhou Yusheng , Zhang Peng , Liu Zhen , Yan Wenqing , Gao Haiyang , Liang Guodong , Qin Wei
Published: January 2024

Afterglow materials featuring long emission durations ranging from milliseconds to hours have garnered increasing interest owing to their potential applications in sensing, bioimaging, and anti‐counterfeiting. Unfortunately, polymeric materials rarely exhibit afterglow properties under ambient conditions because of the rapid nonradiative decay rate of triplet excitons. In this study, hour‐long afterglow (HLA) polymer films are fabricated using a facile molecular doping strategy. Flexible and transparent polymer films emitted a bright afterglow lasting over 11 h at room temperature in air, which is one of the best performances among the organic afterglow materials reported to date. Intriguingly, HLA polymer films can be activated by sunlight, and their cyan afterglow in air can be readily observed by the naked eye. Moreover, the HLA color of the polymer films could be tuned from cyan to red through the Förster resonance energy transfer mechanism. Their application in flexible displays and information storage has also been demonstrated. With remarkable advantages, including an hour‐long and bright afterglow, tunable afterglow colors, superior flexibility and transparency, and ease of fabrication, the HLA polymer paves the way for the practical application of afterglow materials in the engineering sector.
Dendrite Growth—Microstructure—Stress—Interrelations in Garnet Solid‐State Electrolyte
Authors: Raj Vikalp , Naik Kaustubh G. , Vishnugopi Bairav S. , Rana Ajeet Kumar , Manning Andrew Scott , Mahapatra Smruti Rekha , Varun KR , Singh Vipin , Nigam Abhineet , McBrayer Josefine D. , Mukherjee Partha P. , Aetukuri Naga Phani B. , Mitlin David
Published: January 2024

This study illustrates how the microstructure of garnet solid‐state electrolytes (SSE) affects the stress‐state and dendrite growth. Tantalum‐doped lithium lanthanum zirconium oxide (LLZTO, Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12) is synthesized by powder processing and sintering (AS), or with the incorporation of intermediate‐stage high‐energy milling (M). The M compact displays higher density (91.5% vs 82.5% of theoretical), and per quantitative stereology, lower average grain size (5.4 ± 2.6 vs 21.3 ± 11.1 µm) and lower AFM‐derived RMS surface roughness contacting the Li metal (45 vs 161 nm). These differences enable symmetric M cells to electrochemically cycle at constant capacity (0.1 mAh cm−2) with enhanced critical current density (CCD) of 1.4 versus 0.3 mA cm−2. It is demonstrated that LLZTO grain size distribution and internal porosity critically affect electrical short‐circuit failure, indicating the importance of electronic properties. Lithium dendrites propagate intergranularly through regions where LLZTO grains are smaller than the bulk average (7.4 ± 3.8 µm for AS in a symmetric cell, 3.1 ± 1.4 µm for M in a half‐cell). Metal also accumulates in the otherwise empty pores of the sintered compact present along the dendrite path. Mechanistic modeling indicates that reaction and stress heterogeneities are interrelated, leading to current focusing and preferential plating at grain boundaries.
Thallus hydrophobicity: A low‐cost method for understanding lichen ecophysiological responses to environmental changes
Authors: Koch Natália Mossmann , Díaz Dominguez Raúl , Fávaro Ana , Stanton Daniel
Published: January 2024

Premise

Methods to evaluate lichen thalli hydrophobicity have previously been described, but only recently has hydrophobicity been shown to be an important functional trait related to water regulation dynamics that could be used to predict future climate change effects. We describe a novel protocol to measure lichen thallus hydrophobicity that aims to be an easier and more affordable approach.

Methods and Results

Our protocol requires only a micropipette, distilled water, a tripod, and a smartphone or camera. Hydrophobicity is inferred from multiple metrics associated with the absorption times of standardized droplets (initial and total absorption time). We used a data set of 93 lichen taxa with different growth forms and from different biomes and demonstrated that this method is well suited for capturing different levels of hydrophobicity, including very hydrophilic species.

Conclusions

Our results show that this new protocol to measure lichen hydrophobicity is a rapid and low‐cost method to assess an ecophysiologically based functional trait that can be used with almost no limitations, including in different climates, lichen species, and growth forms.
Modeling multivariate positive‐valued time series using R‐INLA
Authors: Dutta Chiranjit , Ravishanker Nalini , Basu Sumanta
Published: January 2024

In this article, we describe fast Bayesian statistical analysis of vector positive‐valued time series, with application to interesting financial data streams. We discuss a flexible level correlated model (LCM) framework for building hierarchical models for vector positive‐valued time series. The LCM allows us to combine marginal gamma distributions for the positive‐valued component responses, while accounting for association among the components at a latent level. We introduce vector autoregression evolution of the latent states, deriving its precision matrix and enabling its estimation using integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA) for fast approximate Bayesian modeling via the R‐INLA package, building custom functions to handle this setup. We use the proposed method to model interdependencies between intraday volatility measures from several stock indexes.
Discovering the strength of immunometabolism in cancer therapy: Employing metabolic pathways to enhance immune responses
Authors: Huldani Huldani , Malviya Jitendra , Rodrigues Paul , Hjazi Ahmed , Deorari Maha Medha , Al‐Hetty Hussein Riyadh Abdul Kareem , Qasim Qutaiba A. , Alasheqi Mohammed Qasim , Ihsan Ali
Published: January 2024

Immunometabolism, which studies cellular metabolism and immune cell function, is a possible cancer treatment. Metabolic pathways regulate immune cell activation, differentiation, and effector functions, crucial to tumor identification and elimination. Immune evasion and tumor growth can result from tumor microenvironment metabolic dysregulation. These metabolic pathways can boost antitumor immunity. This overview discusses immune cell metabolism, including glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, amino acid, and lipid metabolism. Amino acid and lipid metabolic manipulations may improve immune cell activity and antitumor immunity. Combination therapy using immunometabolism‐based strategies may enhance therapeutic efficacy. The complexity of the metabolic network, biomarker development, challenges, and future approaches are all covered, along with a summary of case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of immunometabolism‐based therapy. Metabolomics, stable isotope tracing, single‐cell analysis, and computational modeling are also reviewed for immunometabolism research. Personalized and combination treatments are considered. This review adds to immunometabolism expertise and sheds light on metabolic treatments' ability to boost cancer treatment immunological response. Also, in this review, we discussed the immune response in cancer treatment and altering metabolic pathways to increase the immune response against malignancies.
Enhanced dynamic fine‐grained popularity‐based caching algorithm for ICN‐based edge computing networks
Authors: Banerjee Supratik , Biswash Sanjay Kumar
Published: January 2024

In this letter, we propose an Enhanced Dynamic Fine‐Grained Popularity‐based Caching (ED‐FGPC) algorithm to efficiently cache static contents in ICN‐based edge computing networks. The content popularity changes with time. Thus, the ED‐FGPC algorithm considers the number of incoming interests, the practical file size, and the available cache size to adjust the content popularity threshold. This allows dynamic adjustment of the content popularity threshold. Additionally, ED‐FGPC incorporates a single bit called cached bit (CB) in the header field of the content. This eliminates caching redundancy in the on‐path routers. The cache eviction policy jointly considers the content popularity and the average content access timestamp for content replacement. Based on the content access pattern, this allows finer adjustment of the content eviction policy. We use analytical and mathematical modeling to derive the effectiveness and efficiency of our contribution. Results present a better hit ratio due to dynamic adjustment of the content popularity threshold and the elimination of caching redundancy from the on‐path routers.
A quantitative and qualitative analysis of a medication health literacy workshop for newly and recently arrived refugees
Authors: Prescott Gina M. , Karunakaran Shakanya , Thandar May
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Refugees entering the United States are often unfamiliar with the healthcare system and have different medication beliefs. Since 2016, pharmacy students and faculty have been conducting medication literacy workshops to improve knowledge of medications for newly arriving refugees.

Objectives

The primary study objective was to measure the newly arriving refugees' medication knowledge after a one‐time educational workshop.

Methods

This was a retrospective quantitative and qualitative evaluation. Participants engaged in a student‐led 90‐min educational workshop utilizing interpreters, translated materials, and demonstrations. Topics included medical definitions, information on getting sick, medication use, and label reading. A translated, postworkshop evaluation included 22 questions grouped into the following categories: demographics (n = 4), medication use (n = 7), label reading (n = 6), access (n = 3), and cultural beliefs (n = 2). Three optional, free‐response questions regarding overall workshop feedback were included. Quantitative data was analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Two independent coders reviewed each free‐response question and discussed any discrepancies for consensus. The study team developed key themes based on the codes.

Results

Twenty‐one workshops were conducted with 419 participants from 42 countries. Correct responses were highest for medication beliefs (84%), label reading (78%), access (74%), and medication use (73%). Prescription label reading ability was high (86%), while preventative medicine understanding was lower (34%). Three major learning themes developed, including (1) Cultural differences impact medication habits, (2) Knowing provider roles and how to access different services in healthcare settings was important, and (3) Understanding how to read a label was useful. Researchers found that demonstrations were helpful in participants' learning and that additional education on prevention and specific disease states would be useful.

Conclusion

Newly and recently arrived refugees were able to correctly identify basic medication health information through a medication literacy workshop. Additional classes exploring other topics, including preventative medicine and medications, should be considered.
Relief of Residual Stress in Bulk Thermosets in the Glassy State by Local Bond Exchange
Authors: Wu Kangning , An Dongxu , Zhang Zhuolin , Zhao Ge , Cui Chenhui , Zhou Fusheng , Li Jianying
Published: January 2024

The covalently cross‐linked network gives thermosets superior thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties, which, however, squarely makes the large residual stress that is inevitably induced during preparation hardly relieved in the glassy state. In this work, an incredible reduction in residual stress is successfully achieved in bulk thermosets in the glassy state through introducing highly dynamic thiocarbamate bonds by “click” reactions of thiols and isocyanates. Due to the excellent dynamic behaviors of thiocarbamate bonds, local network rearrangement is achieved through thermal stimulation, while the strong 3D cross‐linked network is well maintained. Ultimately, a decrease by 44% in residual stress is detected by simply annealing samples at 30 °C below glass transition temperature (Tg), during which they could well maintain more than 98.4% of the storage modulus. After the annealing, more uniform residual stress distribution is also observed, showing a 32% decline in sample standard deviation. However, the residual stress of epoxy resin, a typical thermoset as a reference, changes little even after annealing at Tg. The results prove it a feasible strategy to reduce residual stress in bulk thermosets in the glassy state by introducing proper dynamic covalent bonds.