bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A calcineurin‐like phosphatase is required for catch contraction
Authors: Castellani Loriana , Cohen Carolyn
Published: July 2002

The ability of certain molluscan smooth muscles to maintain a prolonged state of contraction, termed ‘catch’, has been correlated with the activity of a calcineurin‐like Ca2+‐regulated phosphatase. The release of this phosphatase through extensive treatment of fibers with detergent, as shown by Western blots and a calmodulin‐binding overlay assay, results in the loss of catch tension maintenance. This effect is reversed by perfusion of the fiber with brain calcineurin. These findings suggest that the activity of the calcineurin‐like phosphatase, switched on during the onset of active contraction, plays a critical role in the maintenance of catch.
The NK1 receptor is involved in the neurokinin‐induced shape change of rabbit platelets
Authors: Savi P. , Laplace M.Cl. , Le Fur G. , Emonds-Alt X. , Herbert J.M.
Published: July 2002

Substance P and selective neurokinin receptor agonists have been tested for their ability to induce shape change in rabbit platelets. Substance P and the NK1 receptor agonist Ac [Arg6,Sar9,Met(O2)11]‐substance P (6–11) induced shape change (EC50 = 3 and 6 nM, respectively), whereas the selective NK2 agonist [Nle10]‐Neurokinin A (4–10) and the selective NK3 agonist [MePhe7]‐Neurokinin B did not show any effect. Moreover, the specific NK1 receptor antagonist CP‐96,345 selectively and dose‐dependently counteracted the effect of substance P or of the NK1 receptor agonist (IC50 = 2 and 0.8 nM, respectively), whereas the selective NK2 receptor antagonist, SR 48968, had no effect. Unlike for serotonin or low doses of ADP, epinephrine did not allow substance P or the NK1 receptor agonist to become a proaggregating substance. These data therefore show that the NK1 receptor is solely involved in the neurokinin‐induced shape change of rabbit platelets.
Aspirin induces non‐enzymatic formation of platelet‐activating factor from lyso platelet‐activating factor
Authors: Mabuchi-Itoh Kiyoko , Sugiura Takayuki , Cheng Neng-neng , Waku Keizo
Published: July 2002

Substantial amounts of platelet‐activating factor (PAF) were formed when lysoPAF was mixed with aspirin (e.g. 0.04% of added lysoPAF (200 nmol) was converted to PAF when mixed with aspirin (2 μmol) for 1 h). Non‐enzymatic formation of PAF from aspirin and lysoPAF also occurs in the aqueous solution or in organic solvents in time‐dependent and dose‐dependent manners. Possible meanings of the non‐enzymatic formation of PAF are discussed.
Different factors bind to the regulatory region of the Na+,K+‐ATPase α1‐subunit gene during the cell cycle
Authors: Kawakami Kiyoshi , Yanagisawa Ken , Watanabe Yuko , Tominaga Shin-ichi , Nagano Kei
Published: July 2002

Three factors that bind to the positive regulatory region (ARE) of the Na+,K+‐ATPase α1‐subunit gene were shown to be present in growing BALB/c‐3T3 cells as shown by the gel retardation assay pattern in which three specific complexes (C1, C2 and C3) were identified. The complexes are similar to those observed in MDCK cell nuclear extracts in which linker substitution mutations in the competitor gave parallel specific effects in both cells. During the process of the cell growth cycle, the relative mobility of C3 was altered, and the amount of C1 decreased in the G0 state. All three complexes (C1, C2 and C3) disappeared and other specific complexes with higher mobilities were alternatively observed at 6h after serum stimulation and thereafter. The expression of the mRNA for the α1‐subunit gene was repressed at G0 and gradually increased after serum stimulation. These results suggest that different sets of factors are responsible for the transcription of the gene at different stages of the cell cycle.
Pitfalls in assigning heme axial coordination by EPR
Authors: Teixeira Miguel , Campos António P. , Aguiar António P. , Costa Helena S. , Santos Helena , Turner David L. , Xavier António V.
Published: July 2002

Different monohemic c‐type cytochromes were analyzed by visible, EPR and 1H NMR spectroscopies. While the visible and NMR data show unambiguously that the heme iron has a Met‐His heme axial coordination, the EPR data indicate an axial ligand field typical of that for a bis‐histidinyl ligation. The validity of the widely used EPR methods for the determination of the heme iron axial coordination, based on the crystal field parameters (tetragonality and rhombicity), is questioned.
Cyclic AMP formation in Tetrahymena pyriformis is controlled by a K+‐conductance
Authors: Schultz Joachim E. , Schönborn Christof
Published: July 2002

Responses of the cAMP generating system of Tetrahymena to changes in the concentrations of external [K+] or [Ca+] ions were examined. When Tetrahymena are equilibrated in high [K+] buffers, intracellular levels of cAMP decreased to 40% within 2 h. Hyperpolarization of the cells by dilution of external [K+] to one‐eighth of its original concentration instantly stimulated intracellular cAMP formation. Manipulations of the K+ resting conductance of Tetrahymena by equilibration in buffers of different K+ content greatly affected the responsivity of the adenylyl cyclase. Hyperpolarization of the cell by addition of Ca2+ also resulted in a rapid generation of cAMP. Blockade of K+ conductances by the K+ channel blockers tetraethylammoniwn, quinine, and Cs+, dose‐dependently inhibited hyperpolarization‐stimulated cAMP formation. The data indicate that a hyperpolarization‐activated K+ current is directly coupled to adenylyl cyclase regulation.
Expression of a bovine vesicular monoamine transporter in COS cells
Authors: Gasnier Bruno , Krejci Eric , Botton Damien , Massoulié Jean , Henry Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2002

Catecholamines are accumulated in vesicles by a proton gradient‐dependent transport, which has mostly been studied in bovine chromaffin granules. The full sequence of a cDNA encoding a vesicular transporter from bovine chromaffin cells, bVMAT2, was recently reported. We now present an analysis of bVMAT2, expressed in transfected COS cells. Comparing the binding of a labelled ligand, [3H]TBZOH, and the rate of uptake, we find a much lower molecular turnover number than in chromaffin granules, probably indicating that a majority of expressed transporters are correctly folded and possess the ligand binding site but cannot actively transport monoamines because they are located in compartments which do not possess a proton gradient. The substrate specificity of uptake and its pharmacological sensitivity to various inhibitors closely resemble those previously observed in chromaffin granules. These results suggest that VMAT2 is the major transporter in bovine adrenal glands, and raise the question of the significance of the second related transporter, VMAT1, which is also expressed in this tissue.
Atypical lymphocytes in schizophrenia
Authors: Lahdelma RL , Katila H , Hirata-Hibi M , Andersson L , Appelber B , Rimón R
Published: July 2002

Blood was drawn from 18 inpatients fullfilling the DSMIII criteria for schizophrenia and their 15 age- and sex-matched clinically infection-free controls before and after neuroleptic treatment. Blood films were stained with MGG solution, mixed, and subsequently read in random order by one observer. The lymphocytes were examined by light microscopy and classified into six types: normal lymphocytes, Downey type I atypical lymphocytes, Downey type III atypical lymphocytes, stress lymphocytes, plasmocytoid lymphocytes, and large granular lymphocytes. Downey type I and III atypical lymphocytes were classified into small, medium, and large lymphocytes. Schizophrenic patients had significantly more Downey type III medium size cells before treatment (p = 0.019 before treatment and p = 0.056 after treatment) and less Downey type I small size cells (p = 0.113 before treatment and p = 0.026 after treatment). Our study supports the idea of a possible subgroup of schizophrenia exhibiting immunological aberrations. In the present study, we found morphologically more specified cells which could be involved in this alteration.
The role of mitochondrial dysfunction in regulation of store‐operated calcium channels in glioma C6 and human fibroblast cells
Authors: Waśniewska Magdalena , Duszyński Jerzy
Published: July 2002

The store‐operated calcium influx into electrically non‐excitable cells is greatly modified under the condition of deenergized mitochondria in situ. The rate of calcium influx into cells with empty intracellular calcium stores is greatly diminished when cells were pretreated with 2 μM carbonyl cyanide m‐chlorophenylhydrazone (a mitochondrial uncoupler) or with 4 μM myxothiazol (an inhibitor of the respiratory chain). We demonstrate that this general phenomenon takes place in the case of transformed (glioma C6 and Ehrlich ascites tumor cells) as well as non‐transformed (human fibroblasts) cells. We also demonstrate that the deenergization of mitochondria affects the cellular calcium influx rate and not the calcium pump on the plasma membrane.
Analysis of the spatial, temporal and tissue‐specific transcription of γ‐sarcoglycan gene using a transgenic mouse
Authors: Noguchi Satoru , Wakabayashi-Takai Eriko , Sasaoka Toshikuni , Ozawa Eijiro
Published: July 2002

To evaluate the promoter function of the 5′‐flanking sequence of mouse γ‐sarcoglycan (γ‐SG) gene in vivo, we generated transgenic mice harboring this sequence fused with enhanced green fluorescent protein reporter gene. The reporter expression was restricted in striated muscles and particularly strong in all myofibers in skeletal muscles. Using these mice, we examine the spatial and temporal transcriptional patterns of the γ‐SG gene during mouse skeletal muscle development. The expression of basic helix loop helix transcriptional factors preceded that of the reporter. Differences between the expression of reporter and endogenous γ‐SG genes in non‐muscle tissues suggested the existence of additional promoter elements in the endogenous gene, and the analysis of endogenous mRNAs demonstrated the existence of a novel upstream exon and promoter active in non‐muscle tissues.
Increase in the molecular weight and radius of gyration of apocalmodulin induced by binding of target peptide: evidence for complex formation
Authors: Izumi Yoshinobu , Kuwamoto Shigeo , Jinbo Yuji , Yoshino Hidenori
Published: July 2002

Small‐angle X‐ray scattering was used to investigate a complex state of apocalmodulin induced by the binding of a Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase IV calmodulin target site. Upon binding of the peptide, the molecular weight for apocalmodulin increased by 8.4%, which provides direct evidence for the formation of a calmodulin/target peptide complex. Comparison of the radius of gyration and Kratky plots of the apocalmodulin/peptide complex with those of apocalmodulin indicates that the overall conformation remains unchanged but the flexibility of the central linker decreases. An analysis of residue pairs between calmodulin and the target peptides suggests that the complex formation is induced by electrostatic interactions and subsequent van der Waals interactions.
The central plug in the reconstituted undecameric c cylinder of a bacterial ATP synthase consists of phospholipids
Authors: Meier Thomas , Matthey Ulrich , Henzen Fabienne , Dimroth Peter , Müller Daniel J.
Published: July 2002

The isolated rotor cylinder of the ATP synthase from Ilyobacter tartaricus was reconstituted into two‐dimensional crystalline arrays. Atomic force microscopy imaging indicated a central cavity on one side of the rotor and a central plug protruding from the other side. Upon incubation with phospholipase C, the plug disappeared, but the appearance of the surrounding c subunit oligomer was not affected. This indicates that the plug consists of phospholipids. As the detergent‐purified c cylinder is completely devoid of phospholipids, these are incorporated into the central hole from one side of the cylinder during the reconstitution procedure.
Oligomeric C‐terminal truncated Bax preferentially releases cytochrome c but not adenylate kinase from mitochondria, outer membrane vesicles and proteoliposomes
Authors: Wieęckowski Mariusz R. , Vyssokikh Mikhail , Dymkowska Dorota , Antonsson Bruno , Brdiczka Dieter , Wojtczak Lech
Published: July 2002

The mechanism by which the proapoptotic protein Bax releases cytochrome c from mitochondria is not fully understood. The present work approaches this problem using C‐terminal truncated oligomeric Bax (BaxΔC). Micromolar concentrations of BaxΔC released cytochrome c from isolated rat heart and liver mitochondria, while the release of adenylate kinase was not significantly affected. BaxΔC also released cytochrome c but not adenylate kinase from outer membrane vesicles filled with these proteins. However, BaxΔC was ineffective in releasing cytochrome c when outer membrane vesicles were obtained in the presence of glycerol, conditions under which the number of contact sites was drastically reduced. BaxΔC did not liberate encapsulated cytochrome c and adenylate kinase from pure phospholipid vesicles or vesicles reconstituted with porin. However, when the hexokinase–porin–adenine nucleotide translocase complex from brain mitochondria was reconstituted in vesicles, BaxΔC released internal cytochrome c but not adenylate kinase. In all these systems, only a small portion of total cytochrome c present in either mitochondria or vesicles could be liberated by BaxΔC. BaxΔC also increased the accessibility of external cytochrome c to either oxidation by complex IV or reduction by complex III in intact liver and heart mitochondria. Conclusions: (1) BaxΔC selectively releases cytochrome c and enables a bidirectional movement of cytochrome c across the outer mitochondrial membrane. (2) A multiprotein complex that resembles the mitochondrial contact sites is a prerequisite for BaxΔC action. (3) A limited pool of cytochrome c becomes the first target for BaxΔC.
Molecular cloning of the mitogenic mannose/maltose‐specific rhizome lectin from Calystegia sepium
Authors: Van Damme Els J.M. , Barre Annick , Verhaert Peter , Rougé Pierre , Peumans Willy J.
Published: July 2002

cDNA clones encoding the mitogenic mannose/mal‐tose‐specific lectin from the rhizomes of hedge bindweed (Calystegia sepium) have been isolated and sequenced. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequence and the molecular weight of the lectin subunit as determined by mass spectrometry indicated that the mature protein comprises the entire open reading frame of the cDNA, which implies that the primary translation product contains no signal peptide and is not proteolytically processed. Searches in the databases revealed sequence homology with the previously described lectins from the taxonomically unrelated Moraceae species Artocarpus integrifolia and Maclura pomifera.
Classification of ‘activation’ antibodies against integrin β1 chain
Authors: Tsuchida Jun , Ueki Shoko , Saito Yuji , Takagi Junichi
Published: July 2002

We compared the effects of two anti‐β1 integrin activating antibodies, TS2/16 and AG89, on K562 cell adhesion to fibronectin. Though both antibodies effectively induced cell adhesion, the EC50 for AG89 was more than 200‐fold higher than that for TS2/16. Scatchard analysis of the data from [125I]Fab fragment binding to the cells revealed that the TS2/16 epitope is exposed constitutively on all the β1 integrin molecules, while only 3% of the β1 integrins on resting K562 cells bear the AG89 epitope. Calculation of the actual number of each antibody bound to the cell during the cell adhesion assay revealed that induction of cell adhesion can be accomplished by binding much fewer AG89 molecules compared to TS2/16. Thus, AG89 and TS2/16 represent distinct classes of anti‐integrin activating antibodies that show completely different binding characteristics as well as different activation effects on the integrin molecule upon binding.
GC rich DNA oligonucleotides with narrow minor groove width
Authors: Sarma Ramaswamy H. , Sarma Mukti H. , Dai Linsen , Umemoto Kimiko
Published: July 2002

Investigation of the width of the minor groove using 500 MHz NMR spectroscopy in three closely related 11‐mer B‐DNA duplexes shows that the minor groove is narrow in a GC rich oligonucleotide, and that a narrow minor groove is not something endemic to DNAs with persistent repetitions of adenine nucleotides (A‐tract DNA). The width of the groove is dictated by local sequence contexts and independent of neighboring A‐tract DNA.
A phorbol ester‐binding protein is required downstream of Rab5 in endosome fusion
Authors: Aballay Alejandro , Barbieri M.Alejandro , Colombo Marı́a I , Arenas Graciela N , Stahl Philip D , Mayorga Luis S
Published: July 2002

Previous observations indicate that a zinc and phorbol ester binding factor is necessary for endosome fusion. To further characterize the role of this factor in the process, we used an in vitro endosome fusion assay supplemented with recombinant Rab5 proteins. Both zinc depletion and addition of calphostin C, an inhibitor of protein kinase C, inhibited endosome fusion in the presence of active Rab5. Addition of the phorbol ester PMA (phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate) reversed the inhibition of endosome fusion caused by a Rab5 negative mutant. Moreover, PMA stimulated fusion in the presence of Rab5 immunodepleted cytosol. These results suggest that the phorbol ester binding protein is acting downstream of Rab5 in endosome fusion.
Evidence for calmodulin inter‐domain compaction in solution induced by W‐7 binding
Authors: Osawa Masanori , Kuwamoto Shigeo , Izumi Yoshinobu , Yap Kyoko L , Ikura Mitsuhiko , Shibanuma Tadao , Yokokura Hisayuki , Hidaka Hiroyoshi , Matsushima Norio
Published: July 2002

Small‐angle X‐ray scattering and nuclear magnetic resonance were used to investigate the structural change of calcium‐bound calmodulin (Ca2+/CaM) in solution upon binding to its antagonist, N‐(6‐aminohexyl)‐5‐chloro‐1‐naphthalenesulfonamide (W‐7). The radius of gyration was 17.4±0.3 Å for Ca2+/CaM‐W‐7 with a molar ratio of 1:5 and 20.3±0.7 Å for Ca2+/CaM. Comparison of the radius of gyration and the pair distance distribution function of the Ca2+/CaM‐W‐7 complex with those of other complexes indicates that binding of two W‐7 molecules induces a globular shape for Ca2+/CaM, probably caused by an inter‐domain compaction. The results suggest a tendency for Ca2+/CaM to form a globular structure in solution, which is inducible by a small compound like W‐7.
In vivo operation of the pentose phosphate pathway in frog oocytes is limited by NADP+ availability
Authors: Preller Ana , Guixé Victoria , Ureta Tito
Published: July 2002

Evolution of CO2 from labelled glucose microinjected into frog oocytes in vivo may be ascribed to the pentose‐P pathway, as measured by radioactive CO2 production from [1‐14C] and [6‐14C]glucose. Coinjection of NADP+ and [14C]glucose significantly stimulated 14CO2 production. The effect depends on the amount of NADP+ injected, half maximal stimulation being obtained at 0.13 mM. The increase in CO2 production was also observed with microinjected glucose‐1‐P, glucose‐6‐P or fructose‐6‐P used as substrates. Phenazine methosulfate, mimicked the effects of NADP+. A high NADPH/NADP+ ratio of 4.3 was found in the cells, the intracellular concentration of NADP+ being 19 μM.
The low Mr phosphotyrosine protein phosphatase behaves differently when phosphorylated at Tyr131 or Tyr132 by Src kinase
Authors: Bucciantini Monica , Chiarugi Paola , Cirri Paolo , Taddei Letizia , Stefani Massimo , Raugei Giovanni , Nordlund Par , Ramponi Giampietro
Published: July 2002

The low molecular weight phosphotyrosine protein phosphatase (LMW‐PTP) is phosphorylated by Src and Src‐related kinases both in vitro and in vivo; in Jurkat cells, and in NIH‐3T3 cells, it becomes tyrosine‐phosphorylated upon stimulation by PDGF. In this study we show that pp60Src phosphorylates in vitro the enzyme at two tyrosine residues, Tyr131 and Tyr132, previously indicated as the main phosphorylation sites of the enzyme, whereas phosphorylation by the PDGF‐R kinase is much less effective and not specific. The effects of LMW‐PTP phosphorylation at each tyrosine residue were investigated by using Tyr131 and Tyr132 mutants. We found that the phosphorylation at either residue has differing effects on the enzyme behaviour: Tyr131 phosphorylation is followed by a strong (about 25‐fold) increase of the enzyme specific activity, whereas phosphorylation at Tyr132 leads to Grb2 recruitment. These differing effects are discussed on the light of the enzyme structure.
Kinetics of and intermediates in a photocycle branching reaction of the photoactive yellow protein from Ectothiorhodospira halophila
Authors: Hendriks Johnny , van Stokkum Ivo H.M. , Crielaard Wim , Hellingwerf Klaas J.
Published: July 2002

We have studied the kinetics of the blue light‐induced branching reaction in the photocycle of photoactive yellow protein (PYP) from Ectothiorhodospira halophila, by nanosecond time‐resolved UV/Vis spectroscopy. As compared to the parallel dark recovery reaction of the presumed blue‐shifted signaling state pB, the light‐induced branching reaction showed a 1000‐fold higher rate. In addition, a new intermediate was detected in this branching pathway, which, compared to pB, showed a larger extinction coefficient and a blue‐shifted absorption maximum. This substantiates the conclusion that isomerization of the chromophore is the rate‐controlling step in the thermal photocycle reactions of PYP and implies that absorption of a blue photon leads to cis→trans isomerization of the 4‐hydroxy‐cinnamyl chromophore of PYP in its pB state.
Overexpression of L‐glutamine:D‐fructose‐6‐phosphate amidotransferase provides resistance to methylmercury in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Miura Nobuhiko , Kaneko Satoshi , Hosoya Shinji , Furuchi Takemitsu , Miura Kyoko , Kuge Shusuke , Naganuma Akira
Published: July 2002

To identify novel genes that confer resistance to methylmercury (MeHg), a yeast genomic DNA library was transfected into Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Two functional plasmids were isolated from transfected yeast clones D1 and H5 that exhibited resistance to MeHg. The yeast transfected with plasmid isolated from clone H5 was several‐fold more resistant than yeast transfected with plasmid from clone D1. Functional characterization of the genomic DNA fragment obtained from clone H5 determined that the GFA1 gene conferred resistance to MeHg. GFA1 was reported to encode L‐glutamine:D‐fructose‐6‐phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT) which catalyzes the synthesis of glucosamine‐6‐phosphate from glutamine and fructose‐6‐phosphate. Accumulation of mercury in yeast clone W303B/pGFA1, which contains the transfected GFA1 gene, did not differ from that in control yeast clone W303B/pYES2. The W303B/pGFA1 strain did not show resistance to mercuric chloride, zinc chloride, cadmium chloride or copper chloride, suggesting that the resistance acquired by GFA1 gene transfection might be specific to MeHg. This is the first report of a gene involved in MeHg resistance in eukaryotic cells identified by screening a DNA library.
A study of the thermophilic ribosomal protein S7 binding to the truncated S12–S7 intercistronic region provides more insight into the mechanism of regulation of the str operon of E. coli1
Authors: Spiridonova Vera A , Rozhdestvensky Timofey S , Kopylov Alexei M
Published: July 2002

A study of the ability of His6‐tagged ribosomal protein S7 of Thermus thermophilus to interact with the truncated S12–S7 intercistronic region of str mRNA of Escherichia coli has been described. A minimal S7 binding mRNA fragment is a part of the composite hairpin, with the termination codon of the S12 cistron on one side and the initiation codon of the next S7 cistron on the other. It has a length in the range of 63–103 nucleotides. The 63 nucleotide mRNA fragment, which corresponds to a putative S7 binding site, binds very poorly with S7. Tight RNA structure models, which behave as integral systems and link the S7 binding site with the translational regulation region of the hairpin, are suggested. This observation provides more insight into the mechanism of S7‐directed autogenous control of translational coupling of str mRNA.
Non‐invasive transgenic mouse genotyping using stool analysis
Authors: Broome Rosemary L. , Feng Li , Zhou Qin , Smith Alicia , Hahn Nina , Matsui Suzanne M. , Omary M.Bishr
Published: July 2002

Commonly applied genotyping of transgenic mice involves using tail or ear biopsies which may cause discomfort to the animal. We tested the possibility of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based mouse genotyping using stool specimens from three transgenic mouse lines that overexpress 10–18 transgene copies of human keratin polypeptide 18, as compared to genotyping using tail biopsies. Stool specimens were obtained with ease and provided easy detection of the human transgene product. The method was also able to detect endogenous mouse actin and keratin genes which presumably are present at two copies each. Nested PCR was not necessary for genotyping using stool‐derived genomic material but did increase the relative magnitude of the signal obtained. The non‐invasive genotyping method described herein offers a reproducible, sensitive and effective modality that could replace invasive tissue sampling procedures currently used to test thousands of genetically altered mice.
Cocaine inhibition of neuronal differentiation in NGF‐induced PC12 cells is independent of ras signaling
Authors: Zachor Ditza A. , Moore John F. , Brezausek Carl M. , Theibert Anne B. , Percy Alan K.
Published: July 2002

In utero exposure to cocaine may result in altered neuronal development. Our previous studies demonstrated cocaine inhibits neurite outgrowth in NGF‐induced PC12 cells through dopamine, by activation of D1 receptors. This study examined where cocaine interferes in the NGF signaling cascade. GSras1 cells that inducibly express activated forms of Ras upon treatment with dexamethasone were used. Morphological differentiation was quantified by counting cells bearing neurite‐like processes after 72 h exposure to either dexamethasone or NGF alone, or with cocaine, dopamine or SKF‐38393. Cocaine, dopamine, and the D1 agonist inhibited neurite‐like process outgrowth in both dexamethasone and NGF‐induced GSras1 cells. GAP‐43 expression, used as a measure for biochemical differentiation was severely diminished in NGF and dexamethasone‐induced GSras1 cells treated with cocaine. These results suggest that cocaine, dopamine and activation of D1 receptors affect the NGF signaling downstream, independent of ras expression, leading to altered neuronal differentiation.
Developmental pattern of reactive oxygen species generation and antioxidative defense machinery in rat cerebral microvessels
Authors: Agarwal Renu , Gupta Amita , Shukla Girja S.
Published: July 2002

The developmental profile of certain enzymatic antioxidants as well as the generation of reactive oxygen species was studied in the rat cerebral microvessels during first three weeks of life and the levels were compared to those present in adults. The data showed a higher generation of superoxide anion (+67%) and H2O2 (+200%) at postnatal day (PND) 21. Superoxide anion production was significantly lower (−24%) at PND 14 and almost comparable to adult values at PND 7. The activity of superoxide dismutase increased with development and attained an adult level at PND 21. Catalase was higher in neonates with a maximum activity at PND 7 and 14 (+68, 69%). The measurement of microvessel glutathione and glutathione‐related antioxidant enzymes showed that glutathione level was higher at PND 7, which declined to an adult level at PND 14. Se‐dependent GPx showed a marked increase between PND 14 and 21, however, it declined in adults. The activity of Se‐independent glutathione peroxidase was very low in cerebral microvessels. Glutathione reductase activity in 7‐day‐old, that was comparable to adult level, declined at PND 14 and 21. The level of glutathione S‐transferase was higher (+43%) at PND 21. The activity of microvessel marker enzyme γ‐glutatmyl transpeptidase increased with age, whereas, alkaline phosphatase showed a slight increase up to PND 14 and thereafter it declined. Lipid peroxidation was found to be significantly lower (−18%) at PND 21 as compared to adults. It may be concluded that developing cerebral microvessels contain high levels of several antioxidant enzymes that are more or equal to those present in adult brain microvessels.
Initial response to active drug and placebo predicts outcome of antidepressant treatment
Authors: Priebe S , Bröker M
Published: July 2002

In this study we tested whether initial clinical change (ICC) and initial subjective response (ISR) predict the outcome of antidepressant pharmacotherapy and whether ICC and ISR as predictors reflect specific pharmacological actions or a placebo effect. Forty patients with major depression were treated with three different antidepressants for 4 weeks. Overall clinical change and final subjective response were taken as outcome criteria. The patients were randomly assigned to two subgroups in a double-blind design. Initially, one group received the active drug and the other placebo. Afterwards, all patients were given the active drug. Significant correlations were found between ICC and ISR and at least one of the outcome criteria in the total sample and in each subgroup. The findings show that ICC and ISR may be significant predictors of outcome. The predictive value of ICC and ISR is not due to initial pharmacological effects, but to non-specific treatment factors.
Quality of life in depression scale (QLDS). Development, reliability, validity, responsiveness and application
Authors: Tuynman-Qua H , de Jonghe F , McKenna S.P.
Published: July 2002

The joint development of the Dutch and English versions of the Quality of Life in Depression Scale (QLDS) is described. The QLDS is based on the needs model of quality of life developed by Hunt and McKenna. The scale has good reliability and internal consistency. Test-retest correlation coefficients were 0.94 and 0.87 in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, respectively. Internal consistency alpha-coefficients were 0.95 and 0.92, respectively. The validity of the scale is highly acceptable. The QLDS was shown to correlate relatively highly with established measures of well-being, and scores obtained with the measure were related to severity of depression as assessed by the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. The QLDS was shown to be responsive to change in an open study with fluoxetine in 540 patients with major depression. The scale has wide applicability and has been shown to be user-friendly, both for respondents and administrators. It has been, or is in the process of being, tested for reliability and validity in the following additional countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Morocco, Spain and the United States.
The GDR “on the eve”
Authors: Baylis Thomas A.
Published: July 2002

Nine years after the domino-like collapse of East Central Europe's Communist regimes, the near-unanimity of the conclusion, in retrospect, that the collapse was inevitable stands in stark contrast to the failure of nearly all observers and participants to anticipate it (or at least to say so publicly) at the time. In looking back at the year preceding the collapse, the nagging question that still presents itself is why practically no one saw the “unavoidable” coming. Phrased more positively, it may prove instructive to ask what evidence was available to external observers, to eastern elites, and to ordinary citizens that should have alerted us or them to the impending catalysm.
Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging for Tissue Analysis
Authors: Song Xiaowei , Chen Hao
Published: December 2020

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has become a significant technique of mass spectrometry (MS) to visualize the spatial distribution of molecules such as drugs, metabolites, lipids, and proteins by their molecular masses. As a representative ambient ionization method that requires minimal or no sample preparation, desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI‐MS) has been shown to have its unique strength in MSI. This article provides an overview of this powerful DESI‐MSI technique, including its basic principle, instrumentation, sample preparation, method optimization, 2D and 3D imaging, quantitation, statistical analysis, software, and its applications in pharmaceutical, clinical, biomedical, plant, microbial, and forensic researches.
A Nanozyme‐Based Artificial Peroxisome Ameliorates Hyperuricemia and Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Xi Juqun , Zhang Ruofei , Wang Liming , Xu Wei , Liang Qian , Li Jingyun , Jiang Jian , Yang Yili , Yan Xiyun , Fan Kelong , Gao Lizeng
Published: December 2020

Artificial peroxisome has drawn a lot of attentions for its usefulness in fabricating protocell system and great potential in treating diseases. However, it is still a significant challenge to prepare a practicable artificial peroxisome to complement multiple and stable functions under physiological condition. Herein, a novel strategy is reported to design an artificial peroxisome using a nanozyme to accommodate multiple enzyme‐like activities that mimics those enzymes in natural peroxisome. The enzymatic active sites are introduced into graphitized moieties on the shell of a hollow carbon nanozyme by doping iron and nitrogen to form Fe–N4 coordination and atomic Fe cluster. With Fe clusters as reversible cofactors and Fe–N4 as prosthetic group, the resulted carbon nanozyme exhibits stable and multiple peroxisomal‐like activities, including catalase, uricase, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and oxidase, which is referred as nanozyme‐based artificial peroxisome (pero‐nanozysome). This pero‐nanozysome shows therapeutic effect for treating hyperuricemia and protecting neurons from free radicals generated during ischemic stroke by employing the tandem activities of uricase‐catalase and superoxide‐dismutase‐catalase, respectively. This study indicates that the pero‐nanozysome is a promising candidate to design artificial peroxisome performing in vivo functions.
Electrically Reconfigurable 3D Spin‐Orbitronics
Authors: Dong Yiqing , Xu Teng , Zhou Heng‐An , Cai Li , Wu Huaqiang , Tang Jianshi , Jiang Wanjun
Published: December 2020

The explosive demands of storage capacity and the von Neumann bottleneck of modern computer architectures trigger many innovations in information technology. Amongst them, nonvolatile spintronics attract considerable attentions for which can embed the computation capability into memory, enable neuromorphic, and probabilistic computing. These exciting progresses typically rely on the manipulation of the relative magnetization orientations of two magnetic layers. By extending to 3D spintronic architectures made of multiple magnetic layers (n), the exponentially increased 2n magnetic states can provide ample opportunities for implementing novel spintronic functionalities. Here, through building perpendicularly magnetized 3D spin‐orbitronic architectures – [Pt/Fe1−xTbx/Si3N4]n multilayers, it is demonstrated the electrical programing of 2n memory states via current‐induced spin–orbit torques (SOTs), and the accompanied reconfigurable multifunction in‐memory logic features in a single four‐terminal Hall device. Further, an electrical readout of these 2n states, together with the implementation of Boolean logic gates and digital circuitry such as 2–4 and 3–8 decoders, are successfully conducted. More complex logic circuits are also envisioned. The experiments thus substantiate 3D spin‐orbitronic structures as a promising platform for exponentially boosting the storage capacity and accommodating in‐memory computing that can be important for promoting the emerging 3D nanospintronics.
A Self‐Sodiophilic Carbon Host Promotes the Cyclability of Sodium Anode
Authors: Tao Lei , Hu Anyang , Mu Linqin , Kautz David J. , Xu Zhengrui , Feng Yiming , Huang Haibo , Lin Feng
Published: December 2020

Benefiting from abundant resource reserves and considerable theoretical capacity, sodium (Na) metal is a strong anode candidate for low‐cost, large‐scale energy storage applications. However, extensive volume change and mossy/dendritic growth during Na electrodeposition have impeded the practical application of Na metal batteries. Herein, a self‐sodiophilic carbon host, lignin‐derived carbon nanofiber (LCNF), is reported to accommodate Na metal through an infiltration method. Na metal is completely encapsulated in the 3D space of the LCNF host, where the strong interaction between LCNF and Na metal is mediated by the self‐sodiophilic sites. The resulting LCNF@Na electrode delivers good cycling stability with a low voltage hysteresis and a dendrite‐free morphology in commercial carbonate‐based electrolytes. When interfaced with O3‐NaNi0.33Mn0.33Fe0.33O2 and P2‐Na0.7Ni0.33Mn0.55Fe0.1Ti0.02O2 cathodes in full cell Na metal batteries, the LCNF@Na electrode enables high capacity retentions, long cycle life, and good rate capability. Even in a “lean” Na anode environment, the full cells can still deliver good electrochemical performance. The overall stable battery performance, based on a self‐sodiophilic, biomass‐derived carbon host, illuminates a promising path towards enabling low‐cost Na metal batteries.
Thermo‐Adaptive Block Copolymer Structural Color Electronics
Authors: Park Tae Hyun , Eoh Hongkyu , Jung Youngdoo , Lee Geon‐Woo , Lee Chang Eun , Kang Han Sol , Lee Junseok , Kim Kwang‐Bum , Ryu Du Yeol , Yu Seunggun , Park Cheolmin
Published: December 2020

Flexible electronics that enable the visualization of thermal energy have significant potential for various applications, such as thermal diagnosis, sensing and imaging, and displays. Thermo‐adaptive flexible electronic devices based on thin 1D block copolymer (BCP) photonic crystal (PC) films with self‐assembled periodic nanostructures are presented. By employing a thermo‐responsive polymer/non‐volatile hygroscopic ionic liquid (IL) blend on a BCP film, full visible structural colors (SCs) are developed because of the temperature‐dependent expansion and contraction of one BCP domain via IL injection and release, respectively, as a function of temperature. Reversible SC control of the bi‐layered BCP/IL polymer blend film from room temperature to 80 °C facilitates the development of various thermo‐adaptive SC flexible electronic devices including pixel arrays of reflective‐mode displays and capacitive sensing display. A flexible diagnostic thermal patch is demonstrated with the bi‐layered BCP/IL polymer blend enabling the visualization of local heat sources from the human body to microelectronic circuits.
In Situ Construction of Lithium Silicide Host with Unhindered Lithium Spread for Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Yue Xin‐Yang , Zhou Qi‐Yang , Bao Jian , Ma Cui , Yang Si‐Yu , Li Xun‐Lu , Sun Dalin , Fang Fang , Wu Xiao‐Jing , Zhou Yong‐Ning
Published: December 2020

Performance degradation and safety issue caused by Li dendrite growth and huge volume variation hinder the practical application of Li metal anode in high‐energy‐density lithium batteries. Li diffusion barrier of the host is a key parameter that determines the dendrite growth. Herein, a stable Li21Si5 alloy host with very low Li diffusion barriers is designed and prepared by an in situ metallurgical method using low‐cost micron silicon precursor. The low diffusion barrier of Li21Si5 host enables a dendrite‐free Li deposition behavior. It is revealed that the in‐situ formed porous Li21Si5 host not only has high Li affinity, but also suppresses volume variation of the electrode effectively and thus keeps superior structural stability during Li stripping and plating processes. As a result, this new Li metal anode with Li21Si5 host exhibits promising cycle stability and rate capability with low polarization in both symmetric and full cells. This study opens new opportunities for using alloy‐based materials as the hosts for Li composite anodes.
3D Interfacing between Soft Electronic Tools and Complex Biological Tissues
Authors: Li Hegeng , Liu Hongzhen , Sun Mingze , Huang YongAn , Xu Lizhi
Published: December 2020

Recent developments in soft functional materials have created opportunities for building bioelectronic devices with tissue‐like mechanical properties. Their integration with the human body could enable advanced sensing and stimulation for medical diagnosis and therapies. However, most of the available soft electronics are constructed as planar sheets, which are difficult to interface with the target organs and tissues that have complex 3D structures. Here, the recent approaches are highlighted to building 3D interfaces between soft electronic tools and complex biological organs and tissues. Examples involve mesh devices for conformal contact, imaging‐guided fabrication of organ‐specific electronics, miniaturized probes for neurointerfaces, instrumented scaffold for tissue engineering, and many other soft 3D systems. They represent diverse routes for reconciling the interfacial mismatches between electronic tools and biological tissues. The remaining challenges include device scaling to approach the complexity of target organs, biological data acquisition and processing, 3D manufacturing techniques, etc., providing a range of opportunities for scientific research and technological innovation.
Rational Design of Bimetallic Oxide Multi‐Nanoarchitectures for High‐Rate and Durable Hybrid Supercapacitors
Authors: Arbaz Shaik Junied , Sekhar S. Chandra , Nagaraju Goli , Ramulu Bhimanaboina , Yu Jae Su
Published: December 2020

Designing porous multi‐nanoarchitectures can be advantageous to reduce the ion impregnation and enhance the electrokinetics in the active materials of electrochemical energy storage devices. Herein, the nickel cobaltite (NiCo2O4) hybrid nanoarchitecture (NCO HNA) is prepared by using a facile wet‐chemical method, followed by calcination. The effect of surfactants on the evolution of morphology is comprehensively investigated. The NCO HNA prepared with both the carbamide and methenamine as surfactants (NCO‐C+M) demonstrates 1D nanorods along with 2D hexagonal nanosheets. Owing to its advantageous structural features, the NCO‐C+M electrode exhibits maximum areal capacity of 154.7 μAh cm−2 compared to the other electrodes, with decent capacity retention of 86.7% after 10 000 cycles. The hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) device is fabricated with NCO‐C+M as a positive electrode and activated carbon as a negative electrode. The fabricated HSC device delivers a superior areal capacitance of 221.7 mF cm−2 at 1.5 mA cm−2 and still retains 93.2% at a high current density. Besides, the HSC displays a high energy density of 67.8 μWh cm−2 and a high power density of 19545 µW cm−2, with good cycling efficiency (81.3%) after 10 000 cycles. The practicability of HSC is further tested by powering‐up various electronic components.
High‐Performance PVA/PEDOT:PSS Hydrogel Electrode for All‐Gel‐State Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Qifan , Qiu Jianhui , Yang Chao , Zang Limin , Zhang Guohong , Sakai Eiichi
Published: December 2020

Flexible supercapacitors are widely favored because they can provide a stable energy supply under different deformations. However, how to avoid the delamination of flexible matrix and electroactive materials under high deformation and balance mechanical durability and electrochemical performance is still an urgent problem to be overcome. Here, a hybrid polyvinyl alcohol/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonate (PVA/PEDOT:PSS) hydrogel electrode with 3D interpenetrated network structure is prepared by the freeze–thaw crosslinking and solution immersion method. Due to the strong intermolecular force between PVA and PEDOT:PSS, coupling with the use of liquid phase mixing, this hybrid hydrogel electrode shows uniform interconnectivity and robust mechanical properties. The all‐gel‐state flexible supercapacitor based on the PVA/PEDOT:PSS hydrogel is fabricated to demonstrate its excellent mechanical durability of which capacitance retention retains 98.1% after 1000 bending cycles as well as excellent electrochemical performance whose areal specific capacitance is 128.9 mF cm−2 and energy density is up to 11.46 μWh cm−2. Moreover, it can continuously power the liquid‐crystal display (LCD) watch in bending, compression, and low‐temperature environments. The outstanding comprehensive performance of this supercapacitor indicates that it has the potential to be used in a new generation of flexible energy storage devices.
Inkjet‐Printed Composites for Room‐Temperature VOC Sensing: From Ink Formulation to Sensor Characterization
Authors: Kiaee Mohammad Mahdi , Maeder Thomas , Brugger Juergen
Published: December 2020

The authors report the fabrication and characterization of chemiresistive sensors, composed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), styrene‐ethylene‐ran‐butylene‐styrene, and a high‐structure carbon black (CB) targeted for detecting hydrocarbons at or near room‐temperature (RT). The sensors are fabricated via drop‐on‐demand inkjet‐printing (IJP) for which jettable inks are formulated and their printability systematically studied as a function of different ink components, that is, polymer concentration, solvent mixture, and CB dispersion. The printed sensors are characterized upon exposure to various analytes showing a high sensitivity to nonpolar compounds (pentane, heptane), moderate sensitivity to polar aprotic analytes (acetone), low sensitivity to polar protic analytes (ethanol), and almost no sensitivity to humidity. While operating at 28 °C, the sensors have a fast response and recovery (a few seconds) owing to the rapid analyte diffusion into the TPE. Moreover, it is shown that the sensor response and recovery further improve without affecting the sensitivity by increasing the droplet spacing in the printed film. Such performance demonstrates the great potential of TPE‐based nanocomposites for RT detection of volatile organic compounds and IJP as a suitable manufacturing method for integrating the sensing material with the electronic devices in applications where low‐cost sensors with low power consumption are required.
A Novel Approach to Design Luminomagnetic Pigment Formulated Security Ink for Manifold Protection to Bank Cheques against Counterfeiting
Authors: Kanika  , Kedawat Garima , Singh Satbir , Gupta Bipin Kumar
Published: December 2020

A new strategy for formulating a high‐security anti‐counterfeiting ink by synthesizing a pigment having both luminescent and magnetic features is demonstrated. The as‐synthesized pigment (Zn0.98Mn0.02S @ Gd1.7Yb0.2Er0.1O3 @ Fe3O4) emits intense orange (580 nm wavelength) and red (660 nm wavelength) color upon excitation with 351 and 980 nm wavelength, respectively. Moreover, the room temperature M–H curve of as‐synthesized pigment shows a typical ferromagnetic behavior. Due to the magnetic behavior of multi‐functional security ink along with dual‐mode luminescence, it can potentially be suitable to use for the printing of bank cheques (logos, magnetic ink character recognition codes), smart tags, etc., where the important information needs to be delicately encrypted and can be authenticated without being getting decoded. The security ink has been also studied using magnetic force microscopy for magnetic behavior and photoluminescence mapping to examine the uniform distribution of emission intensity over the printed pattern. Further, the patterns printed from the synthesized security ink are highly stable against the various bleaching agents and atmospheric conditions like hot, cold, and humid for the investigated period of six months. Hence, the new exceptional outcome of multi‐functional pigment formulated security ink offers a set of new distinctive features against counterfeiting.