bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The zinc finger motif Conservation of chemical shifts and correlation with structure
Authors: Lee Min S. , Mortishire-Smith Russell J. , Wright Peter E.
Published: July 2002

Zinc fingers of the transcription factor IIIA (TFIIIA) type, in which zinc is co‐ordinated by two cysteine and two histidine ligands (Cys2/His2), contain a length of helix packed against a β‐hairpin. These zinc fingers comprise the wider range of structurally homologous proteins for which 1H chemical shifts are available. A number of key resonances have chemical shifts that are highly sensitive to tertiary structure and are conserved between these peptides. The high conservation of these fingerprint chemical shifts is correlated with the common global fold of Cys2/His2 zinc fingers. These chemical shifts are largely independent of primary structure and should facilitate NMR assignments for future zinc finger proteins, as well as provide a diagnostic signature for the characteristic Cys2/His2 zinc finger fold.
1,4‐Dihydropyridines modulate GTP hydrolysis by Go in neuronal membranes
Authors: Sweeney M.I. , Dolphin A.C.
Published: July 2002

Several lines of evidence suggest that L‐type Cu2+ channels (1,4‐dihydropyridine receptors) are modulated by GTP‐binding, proteins. We have further examined this interaction by measuring the effect of 1,4‐dihydropyridines on GTPase activity in brain membranes. Dihydropyridine agonists significantly increased OTPase, reflected by an increase in the maximal rate of GTP hydrolysis, without affecting the affinity for GTP or the binding of a non‐hydrolysable analogue of GTP. The stimulating effect on GTPase was abolished by antisera raised against Goα but not Giα. L‐type Ca2+ channels may act as endogenous GTPase activating proteins (GAPS) to stimulate GTP hydrolysis by Go.
Complete amino acid sequence of puroindoline, a new basic and cystine‐rich protein with a unique tryptophan‐rich domain, isolated from wheat endosperm by Triton X‐114 phase partitioning
Authors: Blochet Jean-Erik , Chevalier Catherine , Forest Eric , Pebay-Peyroula Eva , Gautier Marie-Françoise , Joudrier Philippe , Pézolet Michel , Marion Didier
Published: July 2002

A new basic protein has been isolated from wheat endosperm by Triton X‐114 phase partitioning. It contains five disulfide bridges and is composed of equal amounts of a polypeptide chain of 115 amino acid residues and of the same chain with a C‐terminus dipeptide extension. The most striking sequence feature is the presence of a unique tryptophan‐rich domain so that this protein isolated from wheat seeds has been named puroindoline. The similar phase partitioning behavior in Triton X‐114 of this basic eystine‐rich protein and of purothionins suggests that puroindoline may also be a membranotoxin that might play a role in the defense mechanism of plants against microbial pathogens.
Potassium regulates plasma testosterone and renal ornithine decarboxylase in mice
Authors: Sánchez-Capelo Amelia , Cremades Asunción , Tejada Francisco , Fuentes Teodomiro , Peñafiel Rafael
Published: July 2002

Potassium deficiency produced different effects in the kidney of male or female mice. While in female, potassium deficiency caused a marked renal hypertrophy with no significant changes in testosterone‐regulated enzymes, such as ornithine decarboxylase and β‐glucuronidase, in the male the same treatment provoked a marked fall of these enzymes owing to a dramatic decrease in plasma testosterone. Potassium replenishment restored plasma testosterone and renal enzymatic activities. These results show for the first time, that potassium modulates circulating testosterone and suggest that this cation could exert an important regulatory role in controlling androgen actions.
Induction of metallothionein in a human astrocytoma cell line by interleukin‐1 and heavy metals
Authors: Kikuchi Yutaka , Irie Masachika , Kasahara Tadashi , Sawada Jun-ichi , Terao Tadao
Published: July 2002

The effects of cytokines and heavy metals on the expression and localization of metallothioneins (MTs) within U373MG astrocytoma cells were analyzed by using indirect immunofluorescence using a monoclonal anti‐MT antibody (MT45). IL‐1, CdCl2 (50μM) or ZnCI2, (500μM) remarkably augmented intracellular MT levels, whereas IL‐6 or 10 μM of ZnCl2 showed no inducing activity. From 24 to 48 h after the addition of CdCl2 or IL‐1, immunoreactive MTs were found in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. After 72 h, immunoreactive MTs accumulated in a granular form near the cell surfaces in the presence of CdCl2 (50 μM) or IL‐1 plus ZnCI2 (10 μM). However, this accumulation was not observed when only IL‐1 was added. Thus, Zn2+ facilitated the appearance of the granular form of immunoreactive MTs at a concentration where they do not induce MTs by themselves.
Involvement of annexin V in the entry of influenza viruses and role of phospholipids in infection
Authors: Huang Richard T.C. , Lichtenberg Beate , Rick Oliver
Published: July 2002

Influenza viruses bind to annexin V, a widely spread non‐glycosylated phospholipid‐binding protein. Externally added phospholipids as well as antiserum against this protein specifically inhibit infection of these viruses in cell cultures. We conclude that annexin V plays an important role in the entry of these viruses.
Identification and characterization of functional subunits of Clostridium botulinum type A progenitor toxin involved in binding to intestinal microvilli and erythrocytes
Authors: Fujinaga Yukako , Inoue Kaoru , Nomura Takako , Sasaki Junzo , Marvaud Jean C. , Popoff Michel R. , Kozaki Shunji , Oguma Keiji
Published: July 2002

Clostridium botulinum type A hemagglutinin‐positive progenitor toxin consists of three distinct components: neurotoxin (NTX), hemagglutinin (HA), and non‐toxic non‐HA (NTNH). The HA consists of four subcomponents designated HA1, 2, 3a and 3b. By employing purified toxin and GST‐fusion proteins of each HA subcomponent, we found that the HA‐positive progenitor toxin, GST‐HA1 and GST‐HA3b bind to human erythrocytes and microvilli of guinea pig upper small intestinal sections. The HA‐positive progenitor toxin and GST‐HA1 bind via galactose moieties, GST‐HA3b binds via sialic acid moieties. GST‐2 and GST‐3a showed no detectable binding.
Effects of homocysteine on the binding of extracellular‐superoxide dismutase to the endothelial cell surface
Authors: Yamamoto Masayuki , Hara Hirokazu , Adachi Tetsuo
Published: July 2002

Homocysteine is known to be a risk factor for several vascular diseases. Previously, we found a significant association between plasma homocysteine and plasma extracellular‐superoxide dismutase (EC‐SOD) levels. The binding of EC‐SOD to human and bovine aortic endothelial cell cultures showed significant decreases after incubation with 10 μM homocysteine, whereas the expression of EC‐SOD in fibroblast cell cultures was inhibited with a high concentration (1 mM) of homocysteine. Furthermore, binding of EC‐SOD to heparin immobilized on plates was decreased with homocysteine. These observations suggested that homocysteine decreases the binding of EC‐SOD to vascular endothelial cell surfaces by degradation of endothelial heparan sulfate proteoglycan, which results in a loss of the ability to protect endothelial cell surfaces from oxidative stress.
Time‐resolved fluorescence studies on site‐directed mutants of human serum albumin
Authors: Helms Michael K , Petersen Charles E , Bhagavan Nadhipuram V , Jameson David M
Published: July 2002

Human serum albumin (HSA) contains a single tryptophan residue at position 214. The emission properties of tryptophan 214 from recombinant albumins, namely, normal HSA, FDH‐HSA and a methionine 218 HSA were examined. In all cases, the excited state lifetimes were best described by a two component model consisting mainly of a Lorentzian distribution. The centers of these distributions were 5.60 ns for HSA, 4.23 ns for FDH‐HSA, and 6.08 ns for Met‐218 HSA. The global rotational correlation times of the three HSAs were near 41 ns while the amplitude and rate of the local motion varied. These changes in the lifetimes and mobilities suggest perturbation in the local protein environment near tryptophan 214 as a consequence of the amino acid substitutions.
Camptothecin‐binding site in human serum albumin and protein transformations induced by drug binding
Authors: Fleury Fabrice , Ianoul Anatoli , Berjot Maurice , Feofanov Alexei , Alix Alain J.P , Nabiev Igor
Published: July 2002

Circular dichroism (CD) and Raman spectroscopy were employed in order to locate a camptothecin (CPT)‐binding site within human serum albumin (HSA) and to identify protein structural transformations induced by CPT binding. A competitive binding of CPT and 3′‐azido‐3′‐deoxythymidine (a ligand occupying IIIA structural sub‐domain of the protein) to HSA does not show any competition and demonstrates that the ligands are located in the different binding sites, whereas a HSA‐bound CPT may be replaced by warfarin, occupying IIA structural sub‐domain of the protein. Raman and CD spectra of HSA and HSA/CPT complexes show that the CPT‐binding does not induce changes of the global protein secondary structure. On the other hand, Raman spectra reveal pronounced CPT‐induced local structural modifications of the HSA molecule, involving changes in configuration of the two disulfide bonds and transfer of a single Trp‐residue to hydrophilic environment. These data suggest that CPT is bound in the region of inter‐domain connections within the IIA structural domain of HSA and it induces relative movement of the protein structural domains.
Differences in osseointegration rate due to implant surface geometry can be explained by local tissue strains
Authors: Simmons Craig A. , Meguid Shaker A. , Pilliar Robert M.
Published: July 2002

Experimental evidence indicates that the surface geometry of bone‐interfacing implants influences the nature and rate of tissues formed around implants. In a previously reported animal model study, we showed that non‐functional, press‐fitted porous‐surfaced implants placed in rabbit femoral condyle sites osseointegrated more rapidly than plasma‐sprayed implants. We hypothesized that the accelerated osseointegration observed with the porous‐surfaced design was the result of this design providing a local mechanical environment that was more favourable for bone formation. In the present study, we tested this hypothesis using finite element analysis and homogenization methods to predict the local strains in the pre‐mineralized tissues formed around porous‐surfaced and plasma‐sprayed implants. We found that, for loading perpendicular to the implant interface, the porous surface structure provided a large region that experienced low distortional and volumetric strains, whereas the plasma‐sprayed implant provided little local strain protection to the healing tissue. The strain protected region, which was within the pores of the sintered porous surface layer, corresponded to the region where the difference in the amount of mineralization between the two implant designs was the greatest. Low distortional and volumetric strains are believed to favour osteogenesis, and therefore the model results provide initial support for the hypothesis that the porous‐surfaced geometry provides a local mechanical environment that favours more rapid bone formation in certain situations. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Flortaucipir (tau) PET in LGI1 antibody encephalitis
Authors: Day Gregory S. , Gordon Brian A. , McCullough Austin , Bucelli Robert C. , Perrin Richard J. , Benzinger Tammie L. S. , Ances Beau M.
Published: January 2021

The contributors to persistent cognitive impairment and hippocampal atrophy in leucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated 1 antibody encephalitis (LGI1) patients are unknown. We evaluated whether tau neuropathology measured with [18F]flortaucipir PET neuroimaging associated with persistent cognitive impairment and hippocampal atrophy in four recovering LGI1 patients (3 men; median age, 67 [37–88] years). Imaging findings in cases were compared with those observed in age‐ and gender‐similar cognitively normal individuals (n = 124) and individuals with early‐symptomatic Alzheimer disease (n = 11). Elevated [18F]flortaucipir retention was observed in the two LGI1 patients with hippocampal atrophy and persistent cognitive impairment, including one with autopsy‐confirmed Alzheimer disease. Tau neuropathology may associate with cognitive complaints and hippocampal atrophy in recovering LGI1 patients.
Heterojunction Perovskite Microrods Prepared by Remote‐Controlled Vacancy Filling and Halide Exchange
Authors: Shahjahan Md , Yuyama Ken‐ichi , Okamoto Takuya , Biju Vasudevanpillai
Published: January 2021

Anion exchange reaction tunes the band gap of halide perovskites, which proceeds by the migration of the ions through the halide vacancies. This study reports the preparation of the heterojunction perovskite microrods by optically controlled localized halide vacancy filling, and halide exchange leading to color tuning in the MAPbBr3 microrod crystals. The exchange reaction is homogeneously suppressed by treating the crystal with a halide precursor solution, whereas the reaction is locally inhibited at the specific site of a crystal by filling the halide vacancies using a tightly focused beam of a near‐infrared laser. By controlling the density of halide vacancies at the specific site of the crystal, the rate of nonradiative recombination of charge carriers in the crystal is controlled. This halide vacancy filling by the remote‐controlled reaction helps to locally control the crystal quality and photoluminescence for designing perovskite‐based high‐quality photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices.
A Micropatterned Human‐Specific Neuroepithelial Tissue for Modeling Gene and Drug‐Induced Neurodevelopmental Defects
Authors: Sahni Geetika , Chang Shu‐Yung , Meng Jeremy Teo Choon , Tan Jerome Zu Yao , Fatien Jean Jacques Clement , Bonnard Carine , Utami Kagistia Hana , Chan Puck Wee , Tan Thong Teck , Altunoglu Umut , Kayserili Hülya , Pouladi Mahmoud , Reversade Bruno , Toh Yi‐Chin
Published: January 2021

The generation of structurally standardized human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)‐derived neural embryonic tissues has the potential to model genetic and environmental mediators of early neurodevelopmental defects. Current neural patterning systems have so far focused on directing cell fate specification spatio‐temporally but not morphogenetic processes. Here, the formation of a structurally reproducible and highly‐organized neuroepithelium (NE) tissue is directed from hPSCs, which recapitulates morphogenetic cellular processes relevant to early neurulation. These include having a continuous, polarized epithelium and a distinct invagination‐like folding, where primitive ectodermal cells undergo E‐to‐N‐cadherin switching and apical constriction as they acquire a NE fate. This is accomplished by spatio‐temporal patterning of the mesoendoderm, which guides the development and self‐organization of the adjacent primitive ectoderm into the NE. It is uncovered that TGFβ signaling emanating from endodermal cells support tissue folding of the prospective NE. Evaluation of NE tissue structural dysmorphia, which is uniquely achievable in the model, enables the detection of apical constriction and cell adhesion dysfunctions in patient‐derived hPSCs as well as differentiating between different classes of neural tube defect‐inducing drugs.
Modularly Programmable Nanoparticle Vaccine Based on Polyethyleneimine for Personalized Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Nam Jutaek , Son Sejin , Park Kyung Soo , Moon James J.
Published: January 2021

Nanoparticles (NPs) can serve as a promising vaccine delivery platform for improving pharmacological property and codelivery of antigens and adjuvants. However, NP‐based vaccines are generally associated with complex synthesis and postmodification procedures, which pose technical and manufacturing challenges for tailor‐made vaccine production. Here, modularly programmed, polyethyleneimine (PEI)‐based NP vaccines are reported for simple production of personalized cancer vaccines. Briefly, PEI is conjugated with neoantigens by facile coupling chemistry, followed by electrostatic assembly with CpG adjuvants, leading to the self‐assembly of nontoxic, sub‐50 nm PEI NPs. Importantly, PEI NPs promote activation and antigen cross‐presentation of antigen‐presenting cells and cross‐priming of neoantigen‐specific CD8+ T cells. Surprisingly, after only a single intratumoral injection, PEI NPs with optimal PEGylation elicit as high as ≈30% neoantigen‐specific CD8+ T cell response in the systemic circulation and sustain elevated CD8+ T cell response over 3 weeks. PEI‐based nanovaccines exert potent antitumor efficacy against pre‐established local tumors as well as highly aggressive metastatic tumors. PEI engineering for modular incorporation of neoantigens and adjuvants offers a promising strategy for rapid and facile production of personalized cancer vaccines.
Mitochondrial Damage‐Induced Innate Immune Activation in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Promotes Chronic Kidney Disease‐Associated Plaque Vulnerability
Authors: Bi Xianjin , Du Changhong , Wang Xinmiao , Wang Xue‐Yue , Han Wenhao , Wang Yue , Qiao Yu , Zhu Yingguo , Ran Li , Liu Yong , Xiong Jiachuan , Huang Yinghui , Liu Mingying , Liu Chi , Zeng Chunyu , Wang Junping , Yang Ke , Zhao Jinghong
Published: January 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with accelerated atherosclerosis progression and high incidence of cardiovascular events, hinting that atherosclerotic plaques in CKD may be vulnerable. However, its cause and mechanism remain obscure. Here, it is shown that apolipoprotein E‐deficient (ApoE−/−) mouse with CKD (CKD/ApoE−/− mouse) is a useful model for investigating the pathogenesis of plaque vulnerability, and premature senescence and phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) contributes to CKD‐associated plaque vulnerability. Subsequently, VSMC phenotypes in patients with CKD and CKD/ApoE−/− mice are comprehensively investigated. Using multi‐omics analysis and targeted and VSMC‐specific gene knockout mice, VSMCs are identified as both type‐I‐interferon (IFN‐I)‐responsive and IFN‐I‐productive cells. Mechanistically, mitochondrial damage resulting from CKD‐induced oxidative stress primes the cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase‐stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS‐STING) pathway to trigger IFN‐I response in VSMCs. Enhanced IFN‐I response then induces VSMC premature senescence and phenotypic switching in an autocrine/paracrine manner, resulting in the loss of fibrous cap VSMCs and fibrous cap thinning. Conversely, blocking IFN‐I response remarkably attenuates CKD‐associated plaque vulnerability. These findings reveal that IFN‐I response in VSMCs through immune sensing of mitochondrial damage is essential for the pathogenesis of CKD‐associated plaque vulnerability. Mitigating IFN‐I response may hold promise for the treatment of CKD‐associated cardiovascular diseases.
Dual‐Targeting Peptide‐Guided Approach for Precision Delivery and Cancer Monitoring by Using a Safe Upconversion Nanoplatform
Authors: Zha Shuai , Chau Ho‐Fai , Chau Wai Yin , Chan Lai Sheung , Lin Jun , Lo Kwok Wai , Cho William Chi‐Shing , Yip Yim Ling , Tsao Sai Wah , Farrell Paul J. , Feng Liang , Di Jin Ming , Law Ga‐Lai , Lung Hong Lok , Wong Ka‐Leung
Published: January 2021

Using Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐induced cancer cells and HeLa cells as a comparative study model, a novel and safe dual‐EBV‐oncoproteins‐targeting pH‐responsive peptide engineering, coating, and guiding approach to achieve precision targeting and treatment strategy against EBV‐associated cancers is introduced. Individual functional peptide sequences that specifically bind to two overexpressed EBV‐specific oncoproteins, EBNA1 (a latent cellular protein) and LMP1 (a transmembrane protein), are engineered in three different ways and incorporated with a pH‐sensitive tumor microenvironment (TME)‐cleavable linker onto the upconversion nanoparticles (UCNP) NaGdF4:Yb3+, Er3+@NaGdF4 (UCNP‐Pn, n = 5, 6, and 7). A synergistic combination of the transmembrane LMP1 targeting ability and the pH responsiveness of UCNP‐Pn is found to give specific cancer differentiation with higher cellular uptake and accumulation in EBV‐infected cells, thus a lower dose is needed and the side effects and health risks from treatment would be greatly reduced. It also gives responsive UC signal enhancement upon targeted dual‐protein binding and shows efficacious EBV cancer inhibition in vitro and in vivo. This is the first example of simultaneous imaging and inhibition of two EBV latent proteins, and serves as a blueprint for next‐generation peptide‐guided precision delivery nanosystem for the safe monitoring and treatment against one specific cancer.
Small Molecules with Controllable Molecular Weights Passivate Surface Defects in Air‐Stable p‐i‐n Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Hsu Hsiang‐Lin , Jiang Bing‐Huang , Lan Jie‐Min , Wu Chien‐Hsin , Jeng Ru‐Jong , Chen Chih‐Ping
Published: January 2021

The passivation of surface defects at the interfaces and grain boundaries of perovskites has great potential to improve the optoelectronic properties of related devices. In this study, the small molecules LG0.5, LG1.5, and LG2.5—having precise and controllable molecular weights (various generations synthesized through click reactions) and featuring urethane, urea, and malonamide functionalities—are synthesized, and their ability to passivate the defects of perovskites are evaluated. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy, and time‐resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy are used to observe the interactions between the perovskites and these molecules. The embedding of LG0.5 promotes the growth of large‐grain perovskite crystals, leading to increases in the intensities of the UV–vis absorption and photoluminescence spectral signals of the perovskite as well as longer carrier lifetimes. A power conversion efficiency of almost 20% for a p‐i‐n perovskite solar cell having the layer structure indium tin oxide/NiOx/CH3NH3PbI3 (with LG0.5)/[6,6]‐phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester/bathocuproine/Ag is observed. This device (without encapsulation) exhibits excellent air‐stability, retaining 89.8% of its initial performance after storage in an ambient environment (25 °C, 40% humidity) for over 120 d.
Evaluating high‐resolution optical and thermal reflectance of maize interseeded with cover crops across spatial scales using remotely sensed imagery
Authors: Brooker Aaron , Renner Karen , Price Richard F. , Basso Bruno
Published: January 2021

We evaluated the optical and thermal reflectance of maize (Zea mays L.) interseeded with cover crops using remotely sensed canopy temperature and multispectral imagery. In 2017 and 2018 annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.), oilseed radish (Raphanus sativus L.), and a mixture of annual ryegrass and crimson clover were interseeded in maize at V3 and V6 at three different cover crop seeding rates in small research plots at two experimental farm sites within the network of Michigan State University. The same cover crop species were interseeded in maize at V3 and V6 at a single seeding rate in on‐farm replicated strip trials and also a full‐scale field trial at five locations in Michigan. Canopy temperature and multispectral reflectance were remotely measured 10–12 times throughout each season at all sites using fixed wing aircraft at 1‐m spatial resolution. Optical and thermal reflectance were also measured remotely using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with 2‐cm spatial resolution three times during the growing season at the small plot sites. Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and normalized difference red‐edge (NDRE) were calculated for each of the experimental sites. No significant differences were detected between the interseeded treatments and control with regards to the optical and thermal reflectance and maize grain yield. Variability at field scale was due to inherent differences and not caused by the interseeding treatments.
Silicon uptake and translocation in low‐silica rice mutants investigated by isotope fractionation
Authors: Zhou Jingjie , Sun Yan , Xiao Han , Ma Qingxu , Si Linlin , Ni Liang , Wu Lianghuan
Published: January 2021

Silicon (Si) alleviates biotic and abiotic stress in plants and many studies have been conducted in Si uptake by the roots. However, there is limited information about Si translocation during grain filling and the Si transport pathways regulating plant Si uptake. In the present study, we performed a 2‐yr field trial on the wild‐type rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties Oochikara and Taichung‐65 and their corresponding mutants lsi1 and lsi2. We used multi‐collector, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to evaluate Si isotope fractionation by the Lsi1 and Lsi2 transporters. The qualitative isotope fractionation caused by Lsi1 and Lsi2 (δ30SiLsi1 and δ30SiLsi2) were −2.95 and −2.61‰, respectively, in 2016 and −1.35 and −1.67‰, respectively, in 2017, indicating that transporter Lsi1 and Lsi2 preferentially absorbed 28Si rather than 30Si. Moreover, there was net 28Si enrichment in the mutants, indicating that except for Lsi1 and Lsi2, other Si transport pathways belong to ion channels and electrogenic pumps occur in rice. The unexpected observed decrease in 30Si from the husk to the grain suggests xylem‐to‐phloem Si transfer during grain filling. Hence, Si isotope fractionation is a useful tool to investigate plant Si uptake and translocation.
Relating through Oppression: Longitudinal Relations between Parental Racial Socialization, School Racial Climate, Oppressed Minority Ideology, and Empathy in Black Male Adolescents’ Prosocial Development
Authors: Bañales Josefina , Lozada Fantasy T. , Channey Jozet , Jagers Robert J.
Published: January 2021

This research explored whether Black male adolescents’ (N = 453; Mage = 13.72, SD = 1.33) perceptions of parental racial socialization (i.e., behavioral racial socialization) and school racial climate (i.e., equitable school racial climate) were associated with prosocial outcomes (i.e., prosocial behaviors and positive relations with others) across three waves of adolescence. This study also explored whether youth’s beliefs about the extent to which Black individuals and other marginalized communities are united by experiences of oppression (i.e., oppressed minority ideology) and empathy mediated these associations. Structural equation modeling indicated that parental behavioral racial socialization at Wave 1 and positive relations with others at Wave 3 were positively linked through youth’s oppressed minority ideology and empathy at Wave 2. Thus, Black male adolescents who relate to other marginalized communities through a shared experience of oppression and feel empathy towards others’ lives possess skills that translate their lessons about race and racism into positive relations with others.
Mortality from silicosis in Brazil: Temporal trends in the period 1980–2017
Authors: Algranti Eduardo , Saito Cézar A. , Carneiro Ana P. S. , Bussacos Marco A.
Published: January 2021

Background

Silicosis is the most prevalent pneumoconiosis in Brazil. We aimed to estimate mortality rates and temporal trends for silicosis, and to identify areas of highest mortality.

Methods

Records of silicosis as the underlying (1980–2017) or contributory (2000–2017) cause of death in adults aged 20 years and older were retrieved from the Brazilian Mortality Database. Age‐standardized mortality rates (ASMR) were calculated. The annual trend in ASMR was analyzed by joinpoint regression. Mortality rates per 100,000 person‐years were calculated for each municipality. We analyzed temporal trends in municipalities where similar activities with exposure to silica were performed.

Results

There were 3164 death records (96.6% men) distributed over 14% of the municipalities. Mean age of death was 59.2 (SD 15.1) and mean ASMR was 0.085/100,000 (confidence interval 0.080–0.091). Joinpoint regression showed a significant increase in ASMR from 1980 to 2006 and a significant decrease after 2006 driven by a decline in deaths of individuals younger than 70 years. The highest mortality rate was 21.83/100,000 person‐years, in a municipality with small mining operations for gems. Gold mining municipalities showed the highest composite death rate, 4.0/100,000 person‐years. Tuberculosis was the main cause of death when silicosis was a contributing cause.

Conclusions

In contrast with developed countries, silicosis mortality in Brazil increased to 2006 and subsequently started to drop, mostly from a plateau or decrease in deaths occurring in municipalities which regulated economic activities. However, this decrease did not occur in the older age group nor in the unregulated sector, the latter being the main challenge for exposure control and surveillance.
Increased β‐site APP cleaving enzyme 1‐mediated insulin receptor cleavage in type 2 diabetes mellitus with cognitive impairment
Authors: Bao Hong , Liu Yiming , Zhang Mengguo , Chen Zuolong , Zhang Weiwei , Ge Yuhao , Kang Dongmei , Gao Feng , Shen Yong
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at a high risk of cognitive impairment, with insulin resistance playing a pivotal role. β‐site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is considered a predictor of Alzheimer's disease. However, the potential roles of BACE1 in insulin resistance and the risk of cognitive impairment in T2DM remain unclear.

Methods

We measured plasma BACE1 levels, BACE1 cleavage activities for Swedish mutant amyloid precursor protein (APPsw) and insulin receptor β subunit (INSR‐β), and soluble INSR (sINSR) levels in a clinical cohort study.

Results

T2DM patients with or without cognitive impairment exhibited elevated plasma BACE1 levels and BACE1 enzymatic activities for APPsw and INSR‐β, and sINSR levels. Moreover, the glycemic status correlated with elevated BACE1 levels and BACE1‐mediated INSR cleavage, which was associated with insulin resistance.

Discussion

The elevated BACE1 levels in T2DM may contribute to increasing the cognitive impairment risk through both amyloidogenesis and insulin resistance.
Enzyme‐Instructed Self‐Assembly Enabled Monomer–Excimer Transition to Construct Higher Ordered Luminescent Supramolecular Assembly for Activity‐based Bioimaging
Authors: Zhong Yuanzhi , Zhan Jie , Xu Guanghui , Chen Yumiao , Qin Qin , Liao Xu , Ma Shaodan , Yang Zhimou , Cai Yanbin
Published: January 2021

It is challenging to construct high‐performing excimer‐based luminescent analytic tools at low molecular concentrations. We report that enzyme‐instructed self‐assembly (EISA) enables the monomer–excimer transition of a coumarin dye (Cou) at low molecular concentrations, and the resulting higher ordered luminescent supramolecular assemblies (i.e., nanofibers) efficiently record the spatiotemporal details of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in vitro and in vivo. Cou was conjugated to short self‐assembly peptides with a hydrophilic ALP‐responsive group. By ALP triggering, EISA actuated a nanoparticles–nanofibers transition at low peptide concentrations followed by monomer–excimer transition of Cou. Analysis of structure–property relationships revealed that the self‐assembly motif was a prerequisite for peptides to induce the monomer–excimer transition of Cou. Luminescent supramolecular nanofibers of pYD (LSN‐pYD) illuminated the intercellular bridge of cancer cells and distinguished cancer cells (tissues) from normal cells (tissues) efficiently and rapidly, promising potential use for the early diagnosis of cancer. This work extends the functions of EISA and provides a new application of supramolecular chemistry.
Double π‐Extended Undecabenzo[7]helicene
Authors: Chen Ying , Lin Chaojun , Luo Zhixing , Yin Zhibo , Shi Haonan , Zhu Yanpeng , Wang Jiaobing
Published: January 2021

This work reports the first double π‐extended undecabenzo[7]helicene1, which is a large chiral nanographene, composed of 65 fused rings and 186 conjugated carbon atoms. The molecular identity of1has been confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. A wine coloured solution of1in dichloromethane absorbs light from ultraviolet to the near infrared, featuring an extremely large molar absorption coefficient of 844 000 M−1 cm−1at 573 nm. Optically pure1shows a record high electronic circular dichroism intensity in the visible spectral range (|Δϵ|=1375 M−1 cm−1at 430 nm) known for any discrete polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon. These unusual photophysical properties of1contrast sharply with those of a mono‐undecabenzo[7]helicene derivative2.
Electrochemiluminescence Loss in Photobleaching
Authors: Han Dongni , Goudeau Bertrand , Manojlovic Dragan , Jiang Dechen , Fang Danjun , Sojic Neso
Published: January 2021

The effects of photobleaching on electrochemiluminescence (ECL) was investigated for the first time. The plasma membrane of Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells was labeled with a [Ru(bpy)3]2+ derivative. Selected regions of the fixed cells were photobleached using the confocal mode with sequential stepwise illumination or cumulatively and they were imaged by both ECL and photoluminescence (PL). ECL was generated with a model sacrificial coreactant, tri‐n‐propylamine. ECL microscopy of the photobleached regions shows lower ECL emission. We demonstrate a linear correlation between the ECL decrease and the PL loss due to the photobleaching of the labels immobilized on the CHO membranes. The presented strategy provides valuable information on the fundamentals of the ECL excited state and opens new opportunities for exploring cellular membranes by combining ECL microscopy with photobleaching techniques such as fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) or fluorescence loss in photobleaching (FLIP) methods.
s‐Block Multiple Bonds: Isolation of a Beryllium Imido Complex
Authors: Wang Guocang , Walley Jacob E. , Dickie Diane A. , Molino Andrew , Wilson David J. D. , Gilliard Robert J.
Published: January 2021

A common feature ofd‐ andp‐block elements is that they participate in multiple bonding. In contrast, the synthesis of compounds containing homo‐ or hetero‐nuclear multiple bonds involving s‐block elements is extremely rare. Herein, we report the synthesis, molecular structure, and computational analysis of a beryllium imido (Be=N) complex (2), which was prepared via oxidation of a molecular Be0precursor (1) with trimethylsilyl azide Me3SiN3(TMS‐N3). Notably, compound2features the shortest known Be=N bond (1.464 Å) to date. This represents the first compound with an s‐block metal‐nitrogen multiple bond. All compounds were characterized experimentally with multi‐nuclear NMR spectroscopy (1H,13C,9Be) and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. The bonding situation was analyzed with density functional theory (DFT) calculations, which supports the existence of π‐bonding between beryllium and nitrogen.
Platinum Dissolution in Realistic Fuel Cell Catalyst Layers
Authors: Ehelebe Konrad , Knöppel Julius , Bierling Markus , Mayerhöfer Britta , Böhm Thomas , Kulyk Nadiia , Thiele Simon , Mayrhofer Karl J. J. , Cherevko Serhiy
Published: January 2021

Pt dissolution has already been intensively studied in aqueous model systems and many mechanistic insights have been gained. Nevertheless, transfer of new knowledge to real‐world fuel cell systems is still a significant challenge. To close this gap, we present a novel in situ method combining a gas diffusion electrode (GDE) half‐cell with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). With this setup, Pt dissolution in realistic catalyst layers and the transport of dissolved Pt species through Nafion membranes were evaluated directly. We observed that 1) specific Pt dissolution increased significantly with decreasing Pt loading, 2) in comparison to experiments on aqueous model systems with flow cells, the measured dissolution in GDE experiments was considerably lower, and 3) by adding a membrane onto the catalyst layer, Pt dissolution was reduced even further. All these phenomena are attributed to the varying mass transport conditions of dissolved Pt species, influencing re‐deposition and equilibrium potential.
Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Skipped Enynes via C(sp3)–H Alkynylation of Terminal Alkenes
Authors: Della‐Felice Franco , Zanini Margherita , Jie Xiaoming , Tan Eric , Echavarren Antonio M.
Published: January 2021

The RhIII‐catalyzed allylic C−H alkynylation of non‐activated terminal alkenes leads selectively to linear 1,4‐enynes at room‐temperature. The catalytic system tolerates a wide range of functional groups without competing functionalization at other positions. Similarly, the vinylic C−H alkynylation of α,β‐ and β,γ‐ unsaturated amides gives conjugated Z‐1,3‐enynes and E‐enediynes.
Strategies and Perspectives to Catch the Missing Pieces in Energy‐Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Anantharaj Sengeni , Noda Suguru , Jothi Vasanth Rajendiran , Yi SungChul , Driess Matthias , Menezes Prashanth W.
Published: January 2021

Transition metal hydroxides (M‐OH) and their heterostructures (X|M‐OH, where X can be a metal, metal oxide, metal chalcogenide, metal phosphide, etc.) have recently emerged as highly active electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) of alkaline water electrolysis. Lattice hydroxide anions in metal hydroxides are primarily responsible for observing such an enhanced HER activity in alkali that facilitate water dissociation and assist the first step, the hydrogen adsorption. Unfortunately, their poor electronic conductivity had been an issue of concern that significantly lowered its activity. Interesting advancements were made when heterostructured hydroxide materials with a metallic and or a semiconducting phase were found to overcome this pitfall. However, in the midst of recently evolving metal chalcogenide and phosphide based HER catalysts, significant developments made in the field of metal hydroxides and their heterostructures catalysed alkaline HER and their superiority have unfortunately been given negligible attention. This review, unlike others, begins with the question of why alkaline HER is difficult and will take the reader through evaluation perspectives, trends in metals hydroxides and their heterostructures catalysed HER, an understanding of how alkaline HER works on different interfaces, what must be the research directions of this field in near future, and eventually summarizes why metal hydroxides and their heterostructures are inevitable for energy‐efficient alkaline HER.
Executive Function Skills Are Linked to Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors: Three Correlational Meta Analyses
Authors: Iversen Rebecca Kvisler , Lewis Charlie
Published: January 2021

There is a consensus on the centrality of restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) in the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), yet the origins of these behaviors are still debated. We reconsider whether executive function (EF) accounts of RRBs should be revisited. EF deficits and high levels of RRBs are often pronounced in individuals with ASD and are also prevalent in young typically developing children. Despite this, the evidence is mixed, and there has been no systematic attempt to evaluate the relationship across studies and between task batteries. We examine recent evidence, and in three highly powered random‐effects analyses (N = 2964), examine the strength of the association between RRB levels and performance on set shifting, inhibitory control, and parental‐report based EF batteries. The analyses confirm significant associations between high levels of the behaviors and poor EF skills. Moreover, the associations remained stable across typical development and in individuals with ASD and across different types of EF measures. These meta‐analyses consolidate recent evidence identifying that cognitive mechanisms correlate with high RRBs that are seen in individuals with ASD, as well as in typical development. We propose that the EF account may be critical for guiding future interventions in ASD research.

Lay Summary

Restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) are diagnostic criteria for Autism yet also common in typical development, and if they persist over time some can have a negative impact on learning and social acceptance. The present meta‐analyses found that high levels of RRBs related to poor performance on set‐shifting and inhibitory control tasks, as well as high ratings on parental report scales. Future studies should create interventions that aim to improve these skills as they may help manage challenging RRBs.
Microfluidics for microalgal biotechnology
Authors: Ozdalgic Berin , Ustun Merve , Dabbagh Sajjad Rahmani , Haznedaroglu Berat Z. , Kiraz Alper , Tasoglu Savas
Published: January 2021

Microalgae have expanded their roles as renewable and sustainable feedstocks for biofuel, smart nutrition, biopharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, biosensing, and space technologies. They accumulate valuable biochemical compounds from protein, carbohydrate, and lipid groups, including pigments and carotenoids. Microalgal biomass, which can be adopted for multivalorization under biorefinery settings, allows not only the production of various biofuels but also other value‐added biotechnological products. However, state‐of‐the‐art technologies are required to optimize yield, quality, and the economical aspects of both upstream and downstream processes. As such, the need to use microfluidic‐based devices for both fundamental research and industrial applications of microalgae, arises due to their microscale sizes and dilute cultures. Microfluidics‐based devices are superior to their competitors through their ability to perform multiple functions such as sorting and analyzing small amounts of samples (nanoliter to picoliter) with higher sensitivities. Here, we review emerging applications of microfluidic technologies on microalgal processes in cell sorting, cultivation, harvesting, and applications in biofuels, biosensing, drug delivery, and nutrition.
Common pool resource institutions: The rise of internet platforms in the social solidarity economy
Authors: Ridley‐Duff Rory , Bull Mike
Published: January 2021

The research problem

Theories of organising are dominated by a neoliberal agenda. This authority has been disrupted by social and sustainable entrepreneurship research that highlights alternatives to this hegemony. The motivation for this paper is to argue that the emergence of internet platforms contributes to new ways of working in the social solidarity economy (SSE). We focus our exploration on organisational practices and characteristics, evaluating platforms as contributions to commoning.

Method

Our approach offers a way out of the public–private dichotomy. We build theory by positioning the SSE as a series of approaches that hybridise redistribution, reciprocity and market: three distinct strategies of social organisations for achieving their primary purposes. Utilising Elinor Oström's theory of common pool resource institutions (CPRIs) and her design principles, we appraise three internet platforms (Kiva, Loomio and Kickstarter). We triangulate organisational, academic and media narratives to assess the embeddedness of their commoning practices and potential as social innovations for a postcapitalist economy.

Contribution to knowledge

Social enterprises (SEs) can develop internet platforms that use CBPP to build and support the SSE. This is the first paper to deploy Oström's work to study how SEs use CBPP, thereby developing the theoretical connections between these two fields. Our findings are part of a discourse that challenges neoliberalism and identifies how the SSE contributes to sustainable development.
Resilience in children in the aftermath of disasters: A systematic review and a new perspective on individual, interpersonal, group, and intergroup level factors
Authors: Cadamuro Alessia , Birtel Michèle D. , Di Bernardo Gian Antonio , Crapolicchio Eleonora , Vezzali Loris , Drury John
Published: January 2021

Disasters can impact upon individuals, families, and communities in multiple ways. Research has mainly focused on risk and protective factors relating to the child (individual level) and the family (interpersonal level), not taking into account the processes at the level of social groups. The present review aims to (a) review psychological research on disasters determined by natural events in childhood, (b) distinguish individual, interpersonal, group, and intergroup levels, (c) emphasize the importance of considering resilience as a key outcome. We reviewed 294 studies (in addition to 28 reviews‐meta‐analyses, and 29 naturalistic interventions), and identified factors at the individual (e.g., demographics, exposure, individual differences), interpersonal (e.g., parent–child relationship, family and school environment), group (e.g., social identity, group membership), and intergroup (relations between different groups) levels. We argue that an integrated model of these factors and their interplay is needed to design interventions to enhance resilience in children and their communities. We extend previous theorizations by providing a wider conceptualization of distress and resilience, and by considering the interplay between factors at different levels. A multidimensional approach to the consequences of disasters in children is crucial to understand their development and well‐being, and to design effective interventions. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article'sCommunity and Social Impact Statement.
Lichenochemical Screening and Antioxidant Capacity of Four Tunisian Lichen Species
Authors: Mendili Mohamed , Bannour Marwa , Araújo Maria Eduarda M. , Seaward Mark R. D. , Khadhri Ayda
Published: January 2021

The phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity of four Tunisian lichen species, Cladonia rangiformis, Flavoparmelia caperata, Squamarina cartilaginea and Xanthoria parietina, were determined in order to provide a better understanding of their lichenochemical composition. Powdered material of F. caperata was the richest in total phenolic content (956.68 μg GAE g−1 DW) and S. cartilaginea in proanthocyanidin content (77.31 μg CE g−1 DW), while the acetone extract of X. parietina showed the highest flavonoid content (9.56 μg CE g−1 DW). The antioxidant capacity of all lichen extracts and crude material was evaluated by DPPH. scavenging, iron‐chelating, and iron‐reducing powers. Results showed that methanol extracts of S. cartilaginea had the highest DPPH. antioxidant capacity (IC50=0.9 μg mL−1) and the highest iron‐reducing power was attributed to the acetone extract of this species. All extracts of all species were further screened by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and nuclear resonance spectroscopy (NMR); results showed an abundance of phenols, aromatic compounds, and fatty acids. Overall, our results showed that the investigated species are a rich source of potentially bioactive compounds with valuable properties.
Purification, Characterization, and Antiproliferative Activity of a Single‐Chain Lectin from Vicia palaestina (Fabaceae) Seeds
Authors: Elamine Youssef , Torres‐Salas Verenice , Messai Alima , Girón‐Calle Julio , Alaiz Manuel , Vioque Javier
Published: January 2021

Vicia palaestina Boiss. is an annual herb that grows in dry areas of eastern Mediterranean countries. It belongs to section Cracca subgenus Vicilla, which is characterized by having a high content in the non‐protein amino acid canavanine. The seeds from some of these vetches are also rich in lectins. The purification and characterization of a single‐chain lectin from the seeds of V. palaestina is described here. This lectin was the most abundant protein in albumin extracts. It has affinity for the glycoconjugate N‐acetylgalactosamine and inhibits proliferation of the cancerous Caco‐2 and THP‐1 cell lines. In addition to their high nutritional value, the seeds from V. palaestina represent a source of lectins with health promoting and pharmacological potential because of their antiproliferative activity.