bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein tyrosine phosphorylation activates rat splenic type II phosphatidylinositol 4‐kinase in vitro
Authors: Fernandis Aaron Z , Subrahmanyam Gosukonda
Published: July 2002

Regulation of phosphatidylinositol 4‐kinase (PtdIns 4‐kinase) by protein tyrosine phosphorylation has been indirect and the effects of phosphorylation are debatable. Rat splenic type II PtdIns 4‐kinase was phosphorylated in vitro with protein tyrosine kinases from Con A stimulated splenic lymphocytes. Stoichiometric analysis showed one mole of phosphate was incorporated per mole of PtdIns 4‐kinase. Tyrosine phosphorylation increased the enzyme activity by 3‐fold. Kinetic analysis showed a reduction in K
m for PtdIns and an increase in V
max. Dephosphorylation with protein phosphotyrosine phosphatase abolished the activation of PtdIns 4‐kinase while protein phosphatase 2A had no effect. Protein tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of PtdIns 4‐kinase appear to be tissue specific.
Micellar catalysis for oxidation of nitric oxide (NO) in the multi‐phase systems in vivo
Authors: Beda Nataliya V. , Suntsova Tatiana P.
Published: July 2002

The equation of the dependence of the third‐order reaction acceleration due to concentrating the reagents in a small volume of the hydrophobic phase on the partition coefficients of reagents (Q) and on the lipophilic phase fraction (x), [k
app/k
2=H(Q
NO,Q
O2
,x)] was analyzed. It was demonstrated that the numeric value of dH/dx at x→0 could not be used in order to calculate the efficiency of catalysis from the experimental data. It was shown that, unlike in two‐phase systems (with an aqueous and a hydrophobic phase), the dependence of H on Q in multi‐phase systems, that include all in vivo systems, is different. The multiple phase state of the systems has a determining role for a regulation of NO‐dependent processes and in the realization of conditions of ‘NO catastrophes’.
Interaction of soluble and surface‐bound heparin binding growth‐associated molecule with heparin
Authors: Fath Melissa , VanderNoot Victoria , Kilpeläinen Ilkka , Kinnunen Tarja , Rauvala Heikki , Linhardt Robert J.
Published: July 2002

The interaction of heparin with heparin binding growth‐associated molecule (HB‐GAM) was studied using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR). ITC studies showed that, in solution, heparin bound HB‐GAM with a ΔH of −30 kcal/mole corresponding to a dissociation constant (K
d) of 460 nM. The stoichiometry of interaction was 3 moles of HB‐GAM per mole of heparin, corresponding to a minimum heparin binding site for HB‐GAM of 12–16 saccharide residues. Kinetic measurements of heparin interaction with HB‐GAM made by SPR afforded a K
d of 4 nM, suggesting considerably tighter binding when HB‐GAM was immobilized on a surface. Affinity chromatography of a sized mixture of heparin oligosaccharides, having a degree of polymerization (dp) of >14 saccharide units, on HB‐GAM‐Sepharose demonstrated that oligosaccharides having more than 18 saccharide residues showed the tightest interaction.
Simultaneous core 2 β1→6N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase up‐regulation and sialyl‐LeX expression during activation of human tonsillar B lymphocytes
Authors: Nakamura Mitsuru , Ishida Takashi , Kikuchi Jiro , Furukawa Yusuke , Matsuda Michio
Published: July 2002

We have investigated the regulation mechanism of the surface sialyl‐LeX (sLeX) expression level in tonsillar B cells during activation. sLeX antigen became strongly positive after activation, while resting B cells were weakly positive. sLeX structures were mainly located on O‐linked oligosaccharide chains of glycoprotein. Transcripts of FucT‐VII and core 2 GlcNAc transferase (C2GnT) were up‐regulated after activation, while those of ST3GalIV and β1→4GalT‐I were expressed constitutively. However, the up‐regulation of C2GnT was more dramatic than that of FucT‐VII. These results suggest that sLeX expression level is regulated by C2GnT during tonsillar B cell activation.
Modulation of neuronal phospholipase D activity under depolarizing conditions
Authors: Waring Mark , Drappatz Jan , Weichel Oksana , Seimetz Petra , Sarri Elisabet , Böckmann Ira , Kempter Ulrike , Valeva Angela , Klein Jochen
Published: July 2002

Neuronal phospholipase D (PLD) activity was hypothesized to be involved in vesicle trafficking and endocytosis and, possibly, transmitter release. We here report that prolonged depolarization of rat hippocampal slices by potassium chloride (KCl) or 4‐aminopyridine inhibited PLD activity. Similarly, PLD activity in rat cortical synaptosomes was significantly inhibited by depolarizing agents including veratridine and ouabain. Inhibition of calcium/calmodulin kinase II (CaMKII) which positively modulates synaptosomal PLD activity [Sarri et al. (1998) FEBS Lett. 440, 287–290] by KN‐62 caused a further reduction of PLD activity in depolarized synaptosomes. Depolarization‐induced inhibition of PLD activity was apparently not due to transmitter release or activation of other kinases. We observed, however, that KCl‐induced depolarization caused an increase of inositol phosphates and a reduction of the synaptosomal pool of phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2). Moreover, in synaptosomes permeabilized with Staphylococcus aureus α‐toxin, PLD activation induced by calcium was abolished by neomycin, a PIP2 chelator. We conclude that depolarizing conditions cause an inhibition of neuronal PLD activity which is likely due to breakdown of PIP2, a required cofactor for PLD activity. Our findings suggest that neuronal PLD activity is regulated by synaptic activity.
Single amino acid substitutions affecting the specificity of the fungal ribotoxin mitogillin
Authors: Kao Richard , Davies Julian
Published: July 2002

Mitogillin and related fungal ribotoxins are small basic ribonucleolytic proteins that inhibit protein synthesis by specifically hydrolyzing a single phosphodiester bond in the universally conserved α‐sarcin/ricin loop (SRL) of large subunit ribosomal RNAs. It was previously shown that mitogillin is a natural derivative of a T1/U2‐like ribonuclease with inserted domains that are involved in target selection and specificity. Site‐directed mutagenesis was used to substitute single amino acids in the previously identified functional domains Ala1–Tyr24 (B1‐L1‐B2 domain) and Lys106–Lys113 (L4 region). Examination of the activities of the mutants in the digestion of polyinosinic acid (a ribonuclease substrate) and specific cleavage of the SRL shows that Asn7Ala and Lys111Gln substitutions lead to altered ribonuclease activity and diminished substrate specificity consistent with the proposed functions of these domains.
Influence of exogenous estrogen administration on serum CA‐125 originating from the endometrium
Authors: Karabacak O. , Ilgin N. , Tiras B. , Gursoy R. , Himmetoglu O.
Published: July 2002

Objectives: The purpose of the study is to assess the endometrial contribution of serum CA‐125 using exogenous estrogen administration by ruling out ovarian activity. A randomized, controlled, prospective study was designed to assess the endometrial contribution of serum CA‐125 and its influence from estrogen administration in menopausal women. Methods: Twenty menopausal women with intact uterus and ovaries (study group) and 10 cases with previous total hysterectomy with intact ovaries (control group) were included in the study. The mean age of subjects in the study and control groups were similar at 53±1.9 (S.D.) and 51±2.7 years. The length of menopause in the study and control groups were also similar at 61.0±18 and 52.6±26.5 months, respectively. Group 1 consisted of 10 randomly selected cases and five controls who received 15 days of 50 μg/day transdermal 17β‐estradiol (TE). Group 2 consisted of the next randomly selected 10 cases and five controls who had 15 days of transdermal 100 μg/day 17β‐estradiol (Estraderm‐Ciba) administration. Serum CA‐125 and estradiol were measured at day 0, 15 by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Results: Serum mean CA‐125 levels increased significantly in endometrium intact menopausal women from day 0 to 15 of TE administration in group 2 and 1, 70% and 6%, respectively (P=0.03 and P=0.05, respectively). Interestingly, the increase in serum estradiol levels accompanied this change only in group 2. Conclusions: These results suggest that endometrial CA‐125 secretion to serum is dependent on the dose of administered exogenous estrogen.
Estrogenic activity of tamoxifen on normal mammary parenchyma in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle
Authors: Facina G. , de Lima G. Rodrigues , Simões M.J. , Novo N.F. , Gebrim L.H.
Published: July 2002

Objectives: Tamoxifen, an anti‐estrogenic drug used in the adjuvant treatment of breast cancer, deserves more investigation for the determination of its efficacy as a prophylactic agent against breast cancer in high risk women. Thus, the action of tamoxifen on the human mammary gland was studied by measuring the number of lysosomes in normal mammary epithelium during the administration of tamoxifen. Methods: Tamoxifen was administered only during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle to avoid interference with corpus luteum formation. A fragment of breast tissue adjacent to a fibroadenoma was obtained during surgery from 35 premenopausal women aged 15 to 37 years who had been eumenorrheic for at least 6 months; 18 of these patients were treated with tamoxifen and 17 were used as controls. Lysosome counts were performed under the light microscope on slides submitted to the acid phosphatase cytochemical technique and the data were analyzed statistically by the Mann‐Whitney test. Results: The fragments from the group treated with tamoxifen showed a significant decrease in lysosome numbers. Conclusions: Tamoxifen administered after ovulation significantly decreases the number of lysosomes in the cells of normal mammary epithelium, demonstrating the antiestrogenic effect of the drug on this target tissue.
Immunocytochemical localization of Cathepsin D and CA 125 in ovarian cancer
Authors: Athanassiadou P. , Sakellariou V. , Michalas S. , Petrakakou E. , Athanassiades P. , Aravantinos D.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To study the expression of Cathepsin D (Cath D) and CA 125 antigens and ER and PR receptors on freshly obtained surgical specimens of ovarian carcinomas and their relationship with menopausal status, tumor histology, primary tumor size and lymph node invasion. Method: The tumors obtained from 100 women were measured and cut in half. The cut surface of one half was pressed against glass slides which were air dried and stained using the Avidin‐Biotin peroxidase method for Cath D and CA 125 antigens. The slides were viewed under the light microscope for the characteristic brown granules in the cytoplasm or membrane of the malignant cells. The other half of the tumor was subjected to routine histological examination and part used for the demonstration of ER and PR receptors. The results were analyzed using χ2 analysis. Results: Cath D positivity was as common as CA 125 positivity. Cath D positivity is more frequently associated with serous carcinomas than with others. No relationship was observed between ER/PR positivity and Cath D or CA 125 positivity. Conclusion: The high incidence of Cath D positivity makes it a possible complementary method for following up ovarian carcinoma patients especially those who are CA 125 negative.
Bone mass density in post‐menopausal women
Authors: Cosmi E.V. , Minozzi M. , Riosa B. , Piazze J.J. , Pollastrini L. , Forleo R. , Anceschi M.M.
Published: July 2002

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of age, years since menopause and body weight on bone mass density (BMD) in 283 patients. Methods: Bone mass density was assessed by bone computerized mineralometry at two sites of the forearm. Results: The mean distal BMD and ultra BMD in the postmenopausal group were negatively correlated with age (P < 0.001, r = −0.48 and P < 0.001, r = −0.50, respectively) and years since menopause (P < 0.001, r = −0.32 and P < 0.001, r = −0.33, respectively). When body‐mass index was regressed against distal and ultra distal BMD, positive correlations were found (P = 0.008 and P − 0.007). Conclusions: From our data, forearm computerized mineralometry seems to be a reliable method for the evaluation of the effects of age and body‐mass index on bone mass.
Differential time‐related effects of conjugated equine estrogen on bone metabolism in oophorectomized women
Authors: Nozaki M. , Inoue Y. , Hashimoto K. , Ogata R. , Nakano H.
Published: July 2002

Objective: The effects of conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) on bone mineral density (BMD) and biochemical indices of bone remodeling in oophorectomized women were studied for 3 years during estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to investigate whether 0.625 mg/day of CEE alone prevent acute bone loss in the early stage of surgical menopause. Methods: We divided the subjects into three groups according to interval between oophorectomy and the start of ERT (group 1: less than 2 years after surgery, n = 31; group 2: 2–5 years after surgery, n = 29; and group 3: more than 5 years after surgery, n = 27). Vertebral BMD was measured using dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Two biochemical indices of bone metabolism, urinary deoxypyridinoline (DPyr) and serum intact human osteocalcin (hOC) were also measured. Results: In group 1, continuous ERT with 0.625 mg/day of CEE could not prevent a BMD decrease within the first year. However, by the end of the second year, BMD was restored to the pre‐ERT. The same dosage of CEE significantly increased BMD in groups 2 and 3 by the end of the first year. DPyr and hOC levels both decreased dramatically in the initial 6 months of therapy and were stable thereafter. Conclusion: In the initial 2‐year period after oophorectomy, 0.625 mg/day of CEE alone could not prevent acute bone loss suggesting that additional therapy for the prevention of osteoporosis may be needed.
Family planning in the 21st century: perspective of the International Planned Parenthood Federation
Authors: Brueggemann I.
Published: July 2002

Many women still die as a result of pregnancy or childbirth and yet there are an increasing number of women who wish to regulate their fertility and space or limit their child‐bearing. This paper, outlining some success stories, elucidates the family planning challenges and identifies key messages to indicate the role that IPPF can play in the 21st century. Issues such as advocacy for sexual and reproductive health and rights, increased male participation, serving the interests of marginalized groups, appropriate technology, quality of care and cooperation between various partners, all need to be addressed to improve sexual and reproductive health including family planning in the 21st century.
Sex education in school: preventing unwanted pregnancy in adolescents
Authors: Saito M.I.
Published: July 2002

Sexual activity during adolescence may represent a risk for young women's quality of life as well as their health. This practice can result in early pregnancy, abortion, AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. The need for sexual education in order to identify and prevent the risk factors of an unwanted pregnancy during adolescence becomes increasingly clearer. In order to accomplish this purpose all segments of society shall be convened. If the goal is educating, informing or, even better, forming, then the school stands out from among the other reference groups because this is its essential role. A few basic principles should be established for the success of the educators' actions. Perhaps the most important one being not only to base sexual education on the use of preservatives and contraceptive methods, but rather on rescuing the individual as a result of his/her own actions. This favors the development of a sense of citizenship, respect, commitment, self‐care and care for others.
Routine heart and lung auscultation in prenatal care
Authors: Divanovic E , Buchmann E.J
Published: July 2002

Objective: To determine the value of routine heart and lung auscultation (HLA) in pregnant women. Methods: Descriptive study by record review of maternal case‐files. Results: Of 3191 mothers, there were 24 with heart disease (0.8%) and 53 with lung disease (1.7%). On routine HLA, only two new cases of heart disease, both with asymptomatic valvular conditions, were detected, and none of lung disease. Conclusion: Routine chest auscultation is of very little value in prenatal care.
Hysteroscopic evaluation of the endometrium of post‐menopausal patients with breast cancer before and after tamoxifen use
Authors: Gonçalves M.A.G , Gonçalves W.J , Matias M.M , Nazario A.C.P , Rodrigues de Lima G , Baracat E.C
Published: July 2002

Objective: To evaluate by hysteroscopy and histopathology the influence of tamoxifen in the endometrium of post‐menopausal women with previous breast cancer. Method: Out of 46 patients studied, 20 of them had been using tamoxifen for an average length of 12 months, and are still being followed‐up. Hysteroscopy with endometrial biopsy was performed before and after the use of the drug. Results: The prevalence of endometrial activity before and after this hormoniotherapy was the same, i.e. 10.0%, showing a non‐significant variation. Conclusion: The hormoniotherapy with tamoxifen has not increased the endometrial proliferactive activity of postmenopausal patients with breast cancer. The most common hysteroscopical finding was numerous vesicles disseminated throughout the uterine cavity probably due to atrophy of the endometrium.
Is routine antenatal screening for syphilis useful?
Authors: Gharoro E.P , Abedi H.O
Published: July 2002

The incidence of positive antenatal syphilis serology is low in Benin City. Routine serological screening should continue with the inclusion of confirmatory treponemal antigen tests.
Spatial and temporal distribution of atrial natriuretic factor in the rat testis
Authors: Mourdjeva Milena , Russinova Angelina , Kyurkchiev Stanimir , Kehayov Ivan
Published: July 2002

Summry— The atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a cardiac hormone whose gene and receptor are widely expressed in extracardiac tissues and organs. ANF induces its biological effects by binding to its specific guanylyl‐cyclase‐A receptor, which synthesizes the intracellular second messenger cGMP. Increasing evidences indicate that the testis shows the highest reactivity of stimulation of guanylate cyclase by ANF. The well‐established functionally active ANF receptors in seminiferous tubules raise the question of the origin and function of ANF in the testis. Therefore, the current study was carried out to investigate the spatial and temporal distribution of ANF in the rat testis by use of immunocytochemistry. Our immunocytochemical results showed that at different pre‐ and postnatal ages of testicular development ANF was constantly expressed in Leydig cell cytoplasm. However, the intensity of immunoreaction varied between the different Leydig cell populations (fetal, progenitor and immature) and apparently depends on the acquisition of testosterone producing ability. In seminiferous tubules ANF staining was established in the cytoplasm of the developing spermatocytes, in degenerating germ cells (23‐day of age) in the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells, cap phase of acrosomal development and in the spermatids (55‐day of age). The observed staining patterns suggest a broader spectrum of ANF activities and a possible participation in the whole process of regulation of germ cell development. Our data provide additional support for the hypothesis that ANF plays a major role in autocrine/paracrine regulation of the rat male gonad.
Muscle adaptation during distraction osteogenesis in skeletally immature and mature rabbits
Authors: Hayatsu Kazunori , De Deyne Patrick G.
Published: July 2002

The lack of adaptation of muscle is thought to be a major source of complications during distraction osteogenesis (DO). Although adaptation to DO varies with the regimen (lengthening rate > 1 mm/day and increase in bone length >20%) muscle contractures associated with DO may be a function of age. We tested this idea by subjecting skeletally mature and skeletally immature rabbits to an aggressive regimen of DO (1.4 mm/day with a 20% increase in tibial length). By using immunofluorescence to assess the presence of neonatal myosin heavy chain in sections from the tibialis anterior, we observed that the generation of new muscle tissue in response to DO was vigorous in young animals (27% positive fibers), whereas it was more muted in adult animals (9.9% positive fibers). This adaptive response was associated with a pronounced proliferation of myoblasts in the young but not in the mature animals. Adult tibialis anterior subjected to DO showed a 50% loss in tetanic and twitch tension whereas those in young animals did not. This correlated with partial denervation of adult but not young muscle, as judged by morphological criteria. These experiments indicate that adaptation to DO depends not only on mechanical variables but also on skeletal maturity. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Punlished by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Endogenous evoked potentials assessment in depression: a review
Authors: Nandrino JL , El Massioui F , Everett J
Published: July 2002

Over the past 15 years, researchers have shown an increasing interest in using event-related potentials (ERPs) to study depression. These studies generally fall into four classes: 1), ERPs as a means of detecting depression; 2), ERPs as a tool for distinguishing subtypes of depression; 3), ERPs as a measure of pharmacological effectiveness; 4), ERPs as indicators of defective cognitive operations in depressed subjects. Results from these heterogeneous approaches are often inconsistent and disappointing. Although some ERP components often show increased latencies and diminished amplitudes, these changes seem to reflect principally a variety of non-specific disorders affecting a wide range of cognitive functions rather than a precise and consistent deficit of a particular function. These disappointing results seem to be attributable to methodological problems (heterogeneous patient populations, disproportionate use of the odd-ball paradigm), and do not necessarily call into question the value of studying the ERPs. Furthermore, recent advances in ERP methodology have opened up new perspectives for ERP use in psychopathology.
Clinical trials update: IMPROVEMENT‐HF, COPERNICUS, MUSTIC, ASPECT‐II, APRICOT and HEART
Authors: Witte Klaus , Thackray Simon , Clark Andrew L. , Cooklin Michael , Cleland John G.F.
Published: July 2002

Important new studies relevant to the field of heart failure reported at the annual congress of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), held in Amsterdam in August 2000, are reviewed. The IMPROVEMENT of Heart Failure survey investigated the knowledge and perceptions of over 1300 primary care physicians from 14 ESC member nations and the actual practice in over 11000 of their patients. Guidelines and clinical practice were compared. The survey suggested, in this large sample, that the quality of care was higher than previous smaller surveys have suggested but have also identified important deficiencies in knowledge and management that should be rectified. The COPERNICUS study demonstrated that carvedilol was remarkably well tolerated even in patients with very severe heart failure and that treatment was associated with a substantial reduction in mortality even among patients that would conventionally not be considered, by many, for beta‐blocker therapy. The MUSTIC trial suggested that cardiac resynchronisation using biventricular pacing improved patients symptomatically whether or not the patient was in atrial fibrillation. Morbidity and mortality studies of cardiac resynchronisation are now underway. The ASPECT‐II and APRICOT‐II studies investigated the role of warfarin, aspirin and their combination for the long‐term management of myocardial infarction. One interpretation of the data from these studies is that the combination of aspirin and warfarin is about as effective as warfarin alone but with a much higher incidence of side effects. Warfarin alone appeared superior to aspirin alone. In summary, the annual congress of the ESC provided important new information for clinical practice and, to date, was, by far, the most important cardiology congress in the world this year.
Interlayer Chemistry of Layered Electrode Materials in Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Zhang Yufei , Ang Edison Huixiang , Yang Yang , Ye Minghui , Du Wencheng , Li Cheng Chao
Published: November 2020

With the constant focus on energy storage devices, layered materials are ideal electrodes for the new generation of highly efficient secondary ion batteries and supercapacitors due to their flexible 2D structures and high theoretical capacities. However, the small interlayer distances in layered electrode materials and the strong Columbic interactions between the working ions and host lattice anions cause slow ion diffusion. In addition, structural collapse during repeated ion insertion and extraction reduces the cycling lifetime. As such, interlayer engineering strategies are effective approaches to optimize ion transmission kinetics and structural integrity. In view of the latest research on the interlayer engineering of layered materials, this review will discuss useful strategies to improve electrode performance. The synthetic strategies, characterization techniques, and effects of interlayer‐engineered layered materials, including metal oxides, metal sulfides, carbonous materials, and MXenes, are discussed in detail. The future outlook and challenges for interlayer engineering are also presented, which may pave the way for the development of new layered materials.
Stable and Efficient Methylammonium‐, Cesium‐, and Bromide‐Free Perovskite Solar Cells by In‐Situ Interlayer Formation
Authors: Wang Minhuan , Tan Shaun , Zhao Yepin , Zhu Pengchen , Yin Yanfeng , Feng Yulin , Huang Tianyi , Xue Jingjing , Wang Rui , Han Gill Sang , Jung Hyun Suk , Bian Jiming , Lee Jin‐Wook , Yang Yang
Published: November 2020

The vast majority of high‐performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are based on multi‐cation mixed‐anion compositions incorporating methylammonium (MA) and bromide (Br). Nevertheless, the thermal instability of MA and the tendency of mixed halide compositions to phase segregate limit the long‐term stability of PSCs. However, reports of MA‐free and/or Br‐free compositions are rare in the community since their performance is generally inferior. Here, a strategy is presented to achieve highly efficient and stable PSCs that are altogether cesium (Cs)‐free, MA‐free and Br‐free. An antisolvent quenching process is used to in‐situ deposit a polymeric interlayer to promote the growth of phase‐pure formamidinium lead tri‐iodide perovskite crystals with reduced defect density and to assist in photo‐excited charge extraction. The PSCs developed are among the best‐performing reported for such compositions. Moreover, the PSCs show superior stability under continuous exposure to both illumination and 85 °C heat.
Dirac Fermions in Half‐Metallic Ferromagnetic Mixed Cr1−xMxPSe3 Monolayers
Authors: Yang Juntao , Zhou Yong , Dedkov Yuriy , Voloshina Elena
Published: November 2020

The electronic and magnetic properties of pristine CrPSe3 and mixed CrMxPSe3 (M = Zn, Cd, Hg) monolayers are studied using density functional theory including an on‐site Coulomb term (density functional theory (DFT) ) and tight‐binding approach. While pristine CrPSe3 monolayer has an antiferromagnetic ground state, its alloying with MPSe3 may give rise to half‐metallic ferromagnet with high Curie temperature. The resulting monolayers demonstrate single‐spin Dirac cones of mainly Cr‐d character located in the first Brillouin zone directly at the Fermi energy. The calculated Fermi velocities of Dirac fermions indicate very high mobility in mixed CrMxPSe3 monolayers, that makes this material appealing for low‐dimensional spintronics applications.
Optoelectronic Synaptic Devices for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Wang Yue , Yin Lei , Huang Wen , Li Yayao , Huang Shijie , Zhu Yiyue , Yang Deren , Pi Xiaodong
Published: November 2020

Neuromorphic computing can potentially solve the von Neumann bottleneck of current mainstream computing because it excels at self‐adaptive learning and highly parallel computing and consumes much less energy. Synaptic devices that mimic biological synapses are critical building blocks for neuromorphic computing. Inspired by recent progress in optogenetics and visual sensing, light has been increasingly incorporated into synaptic devices. This paves the way to optoelectronic synaptic devices with a series of advantages such as wide bandwidth, negligible resistance–capacitance (RC) delay and power loss, and global regulation of multiple synaptic devices. Herein, the basic functionalities of synaptic devices are introduced. All kinds of optoelectronic synaptic devices are then discussed by categorizing them into optically stimulated synaptic devices, optically assisted synaptic devices, and synaptic devices with optical output. Existing practical scenarios for the application of optoelectronic synaptic devices are also presented. Finally, perspectives on the development of optoelectronic synaptic devices in the future are outlined.
Short‐term fetal nutritional stress and long‐term health: Child height
Authors: Karimi Seyed M. , Little Bert B. , Mokhtari MohammadAli
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study examined the impact of in utero exposure to Ramadan, the Islamic fasting month, by trimester on height at ages 0 to 18 for a sample of children from Tehran, Iran. If exposure to Ramadan is associated with significant nutritional stress to the fetus, the fetus's adaptive responses to nutritional insufficiency could manifest as changes in height during childhood, long before any effects on aging or disease risk at older ages.

Methods

Children who were exposed and not exposed to Ramadan in utero were compared to identify any systematic difference between their parents' and households' characteristics (including height, age, education, and indicators of wealth). Also, the seasonal pattern of food consumption in Tehran was analyzed. Finally, the association of child height with prenatal exposure to Ramadan was measured, controlling for seasonality and parent and household.

Results

Ramadan associated fasting in the second trimester of gestation was associated with 0.091 age‐adjusted SDs (ie, 0.60‐0.67 cm) decrease in children's height at age 10 years or older. The negative association was largest in male children and was approximately 1 cm at age 12 years or older among male children.

Conclusion

Maternal Ramadan fasting in the second trimester, the critical period for long bone development, was associated with decreased height. Exposure to ritual fasting is important because approximately 75% of all Muslim children are exposed to Ramadan in utero.
Insomnia symptoms, fatigue, and future job exit in American older adults
Authors: Sagherian Knar , Byon Ha D. , Zhu Shijun , Rose Karen
Published: November 2020

Background

As older adults prolong working life and face age‐related health changes, insomnia symptoms and fatigue may jeopardize their ability to stay in the labor force. Our study explored the relationships between insomnia symptoms, fatigue, and job exit in workers aged 65 years and older.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study were used (2011–2017). The sample included 953 Medicare beneficiaries with paid work at the time of the interview. Workers were followed annually for 6 years to the time of job exit. Insomnia measures included the number and type of symptoms, and fatigue (measured as low energy). Crude and adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated within discrete‐time survival analysis. Models were adjusted for health, lifestyle, and sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

At baseline, approximately 49% of workers had either one or two insomnia symptoms. Difficulty falling asleep and difficulty maintaining asleep were prevalent in 35% and 37% of the sample. Fatigue was common in <30% of the sample. Workers with difficulty falling asleep were 1.29 times at higher odds to have job exit when compared with workers with no insomnia (p = 0.033). Conversely, fatigued workers were 0.73–0.77 times at lower odds to have job exit when compared with nonfatigued workers (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Difficulty falling asleep negatively affects future work status, unlike feeling fatigued. Healthcare providers are encouraged to assess for insomnia and discuss treatments with workers, and workplaces should be flexible with the start of workdays to support worker longevity.
Continuing contributions of older academics
Authors: Hall Judith G.
Published: November 2020

Academics go through many stages. Perhaps the most challenging is retirement. This article summarizes some of the challenges and opportunities that await. Now that we are all living longer and healthier, it seems a waste of human capital not to utilize the hard‐won skills of academia during our later years in new and creative ways. Although health and memory cannot be taken for granted, most older academics continue to evolve, gain wisdom, and make new types of contributions to society.
Strain‐Driven Dyotropic Rearrangement: A Unified Ring‐Expansion Approach to α‐Methylene‐γ‐butyrolactones
Authors: Lei Xiaoqiang , Li Yuanhe , Lai Yang , Hu Shengkun , Qi Chen , Wang Gelin , Tang Yefeng
Published: November 2020

An unprecedented strain‐driven dyotropic rearrangement of α‐methylene‐β‐lactones has been realized, which enables the efficient access of a wide range of α‐methylene‐γ‐butyrolactones displaying remarkable structural diversity. Several appealing features of the reaction, including excellent efficiency, high stereospecificity, predictable chemoselectivity and broad substrate scope, render it a powerful tool for the synthesis of MBL‐containing molecules of either natural or synthetic origin. Both experimental and computational evidences suggest that the new variant of dyotropic rearrangements proceed in a dualistic pattern: while an asynchronous concerted mechanism most likely accounts for the reactions featuring hydrogen migration, a stepwise process involving a phenonium ion intermediate is favored in the cases of aryl migration. The great synthetic potential of the title reaction is exemplified by its application to the efficient construction of several natural products and relevant scaffolds.
Umfangreiche Konformationsänderungen in selbstassemblierten mehrsträngigen aromatischen Faltblättern
Authors: Atcher Joan , Mateus Pedro , Kauffmann Brice , Rosu Frédéric , Maurizot Victor , Huc Ivan
Published: November 2020

Durch die Entwicklung immer komplexerer Foldamere wird die Orchestrierung noch größerer Konformationsänderungen ermöglicht. Aromatische Faltblätter – ein seltenes Motiv in synthetischen Foldamer‐Strukturen – wurden so entwickelt, dass sie eigenständige Stapel bilden, was durch Selbstassemblierung zweier identischer Untereinheiten und Interkalation aromatischer Stränge ermöglicht wird. Ionen‐Mobilitäts‐ESI‐MS bestätigt die Bildung kompakter Dimere. Röntgenkristallographie zeigt die Existenz zweier Dimerzuständen mit unterschiedlichen Konformationen auf, die nur bei großer Veränderung ineinander interkonvertieren. Die Moleküldynamik‐Simulation validiert die Stabilität beider Konformationen sowie die Möglichkeit ihrer Interkonvertierung.
An Enantioselective e‐Nose: An Array of Nanoporous Homochiral MOF Films for Stereospecific Sensing of Chiral Odors
Authors: Okur Salih , Qin Peng , Chandresh Abhinav , Li Chun , Zhang Zejun , Lemmer Ulrich , Heinke Lars
Published: November 2020

Chirality is essential in nature and often pivotal for biological information transfer, for example, via odor messenger molecules. While the human nose can distinguish the enantiomers of many chiral odors, the technical realization by an artificial sensor or an electronic nose, e‐nose, remains a challenge. Herein, we present an array of six sensors coated with nanoporous metal–organic framework (MOF) films of different homochiral and achiral structures, working as an enantioselective e‐nose. While the achiral‐MOF‐film sensors show identical responses for both isomers of one chiral odor molecule, the responses of the homochiral MOF films differ for different enantiomers. By machine learning algorithms, the combined array data allow the stereoselective identification of all compounds, here tested for five pairs of chiral odor molecules. We foresee the chiral‐MOF‐e‐nose, able to enantioselectively detect and discriminate chiral odors, to be a powerful approach towards advanced odor sensing.
Orthogonality, dependency, and music: An exploration of the relationships between music facets
Authors: Lee Deborah , Robinson Lyn , Bawden David
Published: November 2020

The classification of Western art music is a complex area of knowledge organization, yet the reasons for those complexities have not been fully studied. This research dissects the concept of orthogonality, in particular regard to music classification. Orthogonality (antonym: dependency) means that one facet acts independently from another facet. Although orthogonality is an assumed quality of facets, it has attracted relatively little attention in knowledge organization discourse. This research utilizes bibliographic classification schemes, musicological writings, and musical works to analyze orthogonality in music classification. The relationships between the medium, form/genre, and function facets are unpicked and a strong dependency is found between these facets. Whether this orthogonality exists as a construct of faceted classification or stems from the domain knowledge is explored. Furthermore, the analysis initiates new thinking about the general concept of orthogonality. The idea of a spectrum of dependency is proposed. In addition, novel, orthogonality‐derived phenomena are discussed—“dynamic facets” and “meta‐dependency”—where the boundary between what is and is not a facet is blurred. The concluding model visualizes the chain of dependencies between music facets, ultimately showing how the lack of orthogonality plays a key role in the complexity and issues found in music classification.
Solvent‐free Synthesis and Properties of Functionalized Hydrazines and Bishydrazines as Energetic Ingredients for Propulsion Applications
Authors: Eymann John , Dhenain Anne , Joucla Lionel , Jacob Guy , Lacôte Emmanuel , Darwich Chaza
Published: November 2020

Functionalized hydrazines and bishydrazines are interesting straightforward precursors for accessing higher nitrogenated compounds. They offer structural diversity and promising energetic properties as well, namely for propulsion applications. A novel and scalable synthesis has been developed for a new family of bishydrazines, starting from monomethylhydrazine (MMH). This solvent‐free route represents a suitable alternative to the one described in the literature. It was extended to design a new family of unsymmetrical hydrazines bearing various functional groups. A selected series of promising compounds, densified with nitrogenated groups (amino, hydrazino or azido functions), was identified as a class of plausible candidates for liquid propulsion. Indeed, the energetic interest of such hydrazines was demonstrated by computing their heats of formation and specific impulse values in bipropellant systems. This led to theoretical energetic performances comparable to that of the MMH/N2O4 system already in use today.
Model predictive control for continuous lactide ring‐opening polymerization processes
Authors: Afsi Nawel , Othman Sami , Bakir Toufik , Costa Liborio I. , Sakly Anis , Sheibat‐Othman Nida
Published: November 2020

Polylactic acid (PLA) is an attractive environment‐friendly thermoplastic that is bio‐sourced and biodegradable. PLA is industrially produced by the ring‐opening polymerization of lactide. This reaction is sensitive to drifts in the operating conditions and impurities in the raw materials that may affect the reaction rate as well as the polymer properties, which can be very costly in continuous processes. It is therefore crucial to employ a control strategy that allows recovering the nominal conditions and maintaining the desired properties and conversion level in case of drift. Three control strategies are discussed in this paper: proportional‐integral (PI) controller, dynamic optimization, and model predictive control (MPC). The proposed approaches are validated by simulation of a continuous PLA process constituted of three cascade reactors including one loop reactor in the middle. Besides the coupling of inputs and outputs, the process model is highly nonlinear, and the control is done only on the boundaries. The results show that the open‐loop optimization strategy provides better performance compared to the PI controller if the disturbance is assumed to be measured. The MPC also shows superior performances provided that the disturbance is first estimated. A polynomial model is developed to predict the nonmeasured disturbance based on the measured outputs.
Cognate base‐pair selectivity of hydrophobic unnatural bases in DNA ligation by T4 DNA ligase
Authors: Kimoto Michiko , Soh Si Hui Gabriella , Tan Hui Pen , Okamoto Itaru , Hirao Ichiro
Published: November 2020

We present cognate base pair selectivity in template‐dependent ligation by T4 DNA ligase using a hydrophobic unnatural base pair (UBP), Ds‐Pa. T4 DNA ligase efficiently recognizes the Ds‐Pa pairing at the conjugation position, and Ds excludes the noncognate pairings with the natural bases. Our results indicate that the hydrophobic base pairing is allowed in enzymatic ligation with higher cognate base‐pair selectivity, relative to the hydrogen‐bond interactions between pairing bases. The efficient ligation using Ds‐Pa can be employed in recombinant DNA technology using genetic alphabet expansion, toward the creation of semi‐synthetic organisms containing UBPs.
Analysis of the determinants of public capital investments on agricultural water infrastructure in Eswatini
Authors: Nhlengethwa Sibusiso , Matchaya Greenwell , Greffiths Ikhothatseng , Fakudze Bhekiwe
Published: November 2020

Infrastructure investment is one of the main preconditions for enabling developing countries to accelerate or sustain the pace of their development and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. This paper examines the determinants of agricultural water infrastructure investments in the Kingdom of Eswatini. Using annual data (time series); Pearson Pair‐wise Correlation, Unit‐root tests and OLS regression techniques are applied to determine the relationship between public infrastructure investment and factors that influence public investments. Agricultural water infrastructure investment is found to be positively correlated to GDP, Sugar export income and FDI into agriculture. Past economic growth and sugar export values are the two critical determinants of agricultural water infrastructure investments in Eswatini. It can be safely construed that higher incomes as well as terms of trade for sugar, can improve spending on agriculture water investments. This is important because an increase in investments in water infrastructure may then help spur economic growth.
The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the presence of large nodal mass are independent predictors of early response: A subanalysis of the prospective phase II PET‐2‐adapted HD0607 trial
Authors: Romano Alessandra , Pavoni Chiara , Di Raimondo Francesco , Tarella Corrado , Viviani Simonetta , Rossi Andrea , Patti Caterina , Picardi Marco , Cantonetti Maria , La Nasa Giorgio , Trentin Livio , Bolis Silvia , Zoli Valerio , Gavarotti Paolo , Corradini Paolo , Cimminiello Michele , Schiavotto Corrado , Parvis Guido , Zanotti Roberta , Gini Guido , Ferreri Andrés J. M. , Viero Piera , Chauvie Stephane , Biggi Alberto , Massimo Gianni Alessandro , Gallamini Andrea , Rambaldi Alessandro
Published: November 2020

Background

The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR) can reflect both the myeloid dysfunction and T‐cell immune suppression and have prognostic significance.

Methods

In 771 newly diagnosed advanced‐stage Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) patients we evaluated the baseline values of NLR and LMR as predictors of clinical outcome. According to the multicenter prospective phase II GITIL‐HD0607 trial, all patients received two ABVD courses and if PET‐2 negative received four additional ABVD cycles while if PET‐2‐positive patients were randomized to either BEACOPP escalated (Be) plus BEACOPP baseline (Bb) (4 + 4 courses) or Be + Bb (4 + 4) and Rituximab. PET scans were centrally reviewed by an expert panel by Blinded Independent Central Review.

Results

Higher NLR and lower LMR were associated with a PET‐2 positivity and failure to achieve long‐term disease control, respectively. By univariate and multivariate analysis, large nodal mass (>7 cm), IPS ≥ 3, NLR > 6 were strong independent predictors of early PET‐2 response after ABVD. Only NLR > 6 and IPS ≥ 3 were strong independent predictors of outcome at diagnosis; however, when PET‐2 status was added, only PET‐2‐positive status and IPS ≥ 3 were independent predictors of PFS. Focusing on PET‐2‐negative patients, those with NLR > 6 had an inferior 3‐year PFS compared to patients with NLR ≤ 6 (84% vs 89% months, P = .03).

Conclusion

In advanced‐stage HL patients treated with a PET‐2‐driven strategy, IPS ≥ 3 and NLR > 6 are independent predictors of outcome at diagnosis while the presence of large nodal mass, IPS ≥ 3, and NLR > 6 at diagnosis are independent predictors of early ABVD response.
Buccal Pedicle Flap Technique Combined With Porcine Collagen Matrix for Volumetric Augmentation of Peri‐Implant Mucosa
Authors: Tabanella Giorgio
Published: November 2020

Introduction

A special interest has been raised regarding the role of the peri‐implant mucosa as a critical factor for long‐term maintenance of the artificial fixtures as well as the final esthetic outcome that may significantly affect patient satisfaction. It is then imperative to develop minimally invasive and easy‐to‐apply plastic surgical methods to increase the volume of the peri‐implant mucosa.

Case Presentation

The limited scientific evidence regarding possible techniques to treat esthetic soft tissue defects around endosseous implants is encouraging a preventive soft tissue augmentation of mucosa deficiencies and thin phenotypes. Several techniques have been proposed to augment the volume of the mucosa to achieve the so‐called pink esthetics. Among these the buccal pedicle flap seems to be less invasive in terms of morbidity since it does not necessitate any soft tissue harvesting. Its low morbidity allows it to treat patients without the need of postoperative medications since it reduces pain, the risk of infections, alteration of the sensitivity of the donor site and significantly reduces the period of healing which is generally longer when associated with connective tissue grafts. A modified surgical approach is based on the combination of the buccal pedicle flap with a stable collagen matrix to boost a biomimetic peri‐implant mucosa and generate a convex pink interface with the final restoration.

Conclusion

The proposed modified buccal pedicle flap seems to be promising in terms of decreased morbidity and maintenance of the blood supply, and conducive to an increased patient acceptance rate.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with end‐stage renal disease: Is “better than nothing” good enough?
Authors: Chiarito Mauro , Mehran Roxana
Published: November 2020

Key Points

Patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) have a three‐fold higher prevalence of aortic stenosis than patients with normal renal function, and are at increased risk of adverse events after surgical (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, the optimal management of ESRD patients with concomitant aortic stenosis is still debated.

This large observational, multicenter registry showed that in ESRD patients TAVR improves short term prognosis and reduces length and cost of hospital stay as compared with SAVR, although the rates of complications and mortality was still concerning.

Specific efforts to refine the performance of TAVR in ESRD patients are urgently needed to improve outcome and quality of life in this growing population.