bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of TIMI score with severity of coronary artery disease in acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Hasan Ahmad , Iqbal Ahsan , Tawab Shahzad , Hussain Imtiaz
Published: March 2023

Background: ACS presents as wide range of clinical ailments that requires prompt treatment to avoid unforeseen circumstances. As noninvasive strategy, TIMI risk assessment is a widely accepted tool for risk stratification of ACS patient to initiate timely management. Purpose of the present study is to determine the association of TIMI score in predicting the severity of coronary artery disease in ACS.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in specialized tertiary care cardiac hospital on 255 patients from January 2021 to June 2021. For all patients, TIMI score calculated based on all the seven variables. Confidentiality of the participants was maintained. Ethical approval was obtained from review board of concerned hospital. Data was analyzed on SPSS version 23.0. One way ANOVA was used to compare categorical variables. Chi square test used to reveal difference in proportion to three TIMI groups.

Results: Finding show that ST segment deviation was evident in 51.5% patients. Out of 37 patients in group-III with ST segment changes, 91.8% were found of having significant CAD. Results show that in group-III, 54.1% had significant three vessel CAD compared to 17.6% group-II & 7.5% group-I patients. Also, p-value of <0.001 depict significant association between TIMI score and severity of CAD.

Conclusion: A significant association from this study gives a notion that TIMI score is valuable tool in clinical setting to make urgent decision regarding the management of CAD. Also, it was concluded from current study that patients with higher TIMI score had additional risk of three vessel CAD and left main vessel CAD in patients with ACS.
rare case of pericardial tamponade during Transthoracic Echocardiogram.
Authors: Ullah Abid , Cunningham Colin
Published: March 2023

Pericardial effusion is not an uncommon finding in cardiology practice and the clinical picture depends on various factors including size of the effusion, etiology and speed of accumulation. Significant hemodynamic abnormalities, including cardiac arrest, can result from pericardial tamponade. We report a case of pericardial tamponade in a patient precipitated by added pressure from a transthoracic echo probe. Hemodynamic changes occurred unexpectedly during acquisition of subcostal echo images. The patient was promptly resuscitated and urgent pericardiocentesis was performed. Soon after the pericardiocentesis, hemodynamic indicators improved, and the patient achieved a satisfactory clinical recovery.
Stress cardiomyopathy: Same pathology caused by variety of triggers.
Authors: Ullah Abid , Malik Nadim , Fraser D G , Raza A , Ordoubadi F Fath , Omar M El
Published: March 2023

Stress cardiomyopathy (SCM), also known as Takatsubo cardiomyopathy or broken heart syndrome has been well documented in literature since its first description. With more awareness of the condition and increasing evidence base, the reported incidence of SCM has steadily increased over years and currently estimated at 1-2 % of the patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome.

There are different criteria proposed for diagnosis of stress cardiomyopathy and this address more or less the same clinical questions while diagnosing this not so uncommon condition.

Despite extensive research , there has been a lack of understanding on the exact mechanism and causative factors leading to SCM. We report a variety of cases where  a different trigger appears to have been responsible for causation of SCM. It would seem that irrespective of the original trigger, the final clinical picture and course remains identical. These further strengths the idea that the condition is mediated by a common neurocardiovacular pathway in susceptible individuals. Further exploration of these mechanisms would be crucial to improve our strategies to try to prevent and effectively manage this potentially disabling condition.
Two Towns in Indonesia, One on the Coast, the Other “A City of One Thousand Rivers”
Authors: Damayanti Vera D. , Dipowijoyo Hasti Terakat , Kurniawan Kemas Ridwan , Rosbergen Jacqueline , Timmer Peter , Wijayanto Punto
Published: March 2023

The Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) Quick Scan Method is a methodology that can be used in workshops to foster multi-stakeholder collaboration and a holistic understanding of a context and its challenges. The HUL Quick Scan Method was conducted in three phases in Muntok and Banjarmasin, Indonesia, and demonstrated its efficacy in promoting heritage and socio-cultural practices as catalysts for sustainable development. The features of the workshops run in the two cities stimulated discussion among the local community and including private and public sectors, establishing a basis for applying the UNESCO Historic Urban Landscape approach.
Strategy for Small Industry Development for Processing of Soybean-Based Tempeh From the Peatlands of Palangka Raya City
Authors: Saputera  , Jaya Herry Palangka , Yuliana
Published: March 2023

This study aims to determine the internal and external factors that can influence the development of the tempe processing industry and find out alternative strategies that can be applied in developing the tempe industry made from soybeans from the peatlands of Palangka Raya City. Data analysis was carried out using SWOT analysis to evaluate strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the strategic planning of a small industry for processing tempeh made from soybeans from peatlands. The results of the analysis show that there are several internal and external factors that influence the development of the tempe processing industry made from soybeans from the peatlands of Palangka Raya City. There are several alternative strategies that can be implemented in developing the tempe industry made from soybeans from the peatlands of Palangka Raya City, namely maintaining the quality of tempe starting from taste, texture, aroma, improving business capital, human resources and raw materials in order to meet the high demand for tempe.
Gestão arquivística e administração pública: a preservação e a segurança dos documentos arquivísticos digitais
Authors: Silva Josimas Eugênio , Neves Thiago Thito de Paula Oliveira , Dutra Michael David de Souza , Petean Gustavo Henrique
Published: March 2023

Diante da multiplicação da informação nos últimos anos, resultado da globalização e dos avanços tecnológicos, o presente estudo promoveu uma revisão da literatura na busca de métodos existentes para a preservação e segurança dos documentos arquivísticos digitais, a fim de garantir seu futuro acesso, bem como a sua autenticidade e integridade em longo prazo. Dessa forma, neste estudo pretendeu-se identificar a causa das deficiências na preservação dos documentos arquivísticos digitais, bem como propor possíveis soluções para os mesmos. Para tanto, foram utilizados os métodos de pesquisa bibliográfica e exploratória como procedimentos técnicos, com abordagem qualitativa, relacionados à gestão documental e à preservação de documentos digitais. Buscou-se ainda, como base conceitual, analisar a Lei de Arquivos, Lei de Acesso à Informação e Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados Pessoais, bem como as diretrizes estabelecidas pelo Conselho Nacional de Arquivos, além de trazer um caso prático para verificação de aplicabilidade dos conceitos tratados neste estudo. Por fim, a pesquisa revela desafios que envolvem a preservação da informação arquivística em meio digital, dentre eles a rápida degradação física dos suportes e a obsolescência tecnológica, bem como propõe a utilização de repositórios arquivísticos digitais confiáveis como uma das soluções para esses problemas.
Interest of Dermoscopy for the Diagnosis of Onychopathy in an Infant
Authors: Khabba C. Ait , Asermouh M. , Ismaïli N. , Senouci K.
Published: March 2023

Aim: Onychomycosis is a rare pathology in infants which constitutes 15.5% of onychodystrophies in children, especially those with Down syndrome and the immunocompromised. Dermosocpy is an innocuous examination allowing to guide the clinical diagnosis and to avoid invasive examinations.

Presentation of Case: 5-month-old infant presents with thickening of the thumbnail of the left hand with xanthonychia evolving for 20 days without notion of trauma. On clinical examination, xantho-pachyonychia of the thumbnail of the left hand was noted reaching the latero-distal part with subungual hyperkeratosis and peronyxis. Dermoscopy showed yellowish chromonychia, longitudinal striae, subungual hyperkeratosis with jagged edges. The mycological direct examination and culture was in favor of a Candida albicans infection The patient was put on an antifungal cream with improvement after 3 months.

Discussion: The rarity of onychomycosis in infants can be attributed to several factors such as the difference in the structure of the nail plate, less exposure to trauma and rapidity of nail regrowth. The average age is 8 months, the sex ratio at 0.98 and the preferential location is the fingernails. Clinically the nail involvement is of the disto-lateral type with subungual hyperkeratosis and peronyxis. Dermatoscopy is a quick tool showing chromonychia, longitudinal streaks, subungual hyperkeratosis producing a “ruined appearance”, distal onycholysis with jagged edges and linear hemorrhages. Infant onychomycosis is most often of candidal origin (C. albicans). Topical antifungals (ciclopirox) are preferred.

Conclusion: This case is being reported to highlight the important role of dermoscopy in the diagnosis of onychomycosis and thus prevent unnecessary biopsies.
On Rings Domination of Total Graph of Some Graph Families
Authors: Ruaya Kyle Kenneth B. , Jr. Isagani S. Cabahug,
Published: March 2023

For a nontrivial connected graph G with no isolated vertex, a nonempty subset D \(\subseteq\) V (G) is a rings dominating set if D is a dominating set and for each vertex \(\upsilon\) \(\in\) V \ D is adjacent to at least two vertices in V \ D. Thus, the dominating set D of V (G) is a rings dominating set if for all \(\upsilon\) \(\in\) V \ D, \(\mid\)N(\(\upsilon\)) \(\cap\) (V \ D)\(\mid\) \(\ge\) 2. Moreover, D is called a minimum rings dominating set if D is a rings dominating set of smallest size in a given graph. The cardinality of minimum rings dominating set of G is the rings domination number of G, denoted by \(\gamma\)ri(G). Here, we determine how the minimum rings dominating set is constructed in the total graph of some graph families with the inclusion of generated conditions for this type of domination and provide their respective rings domination number.
Humanity Lives on the Cosmic Microwave
Authors: Prisyazhniuk Vitaly A.
Published: March 2023

Seismologists and volcanologists have no answer to the question of what is the source of energy for volcanoes and earthquakes. A hypothesis is proposed and substantiated that the energy supplier is the Sun. Microwave and induction ovens are a public example of the transformation of high-frequency radiation energy into heat. The filtering of certain frequencies of radiation by a metal grid raised into the stratosphere can dampen the destructive effect of earthquakes and erupting volcanoes.
Infrared Spectroscopic Study of Binding Interaction of Metal Complexes with Mefenamic Acid (MFA)
Authors: Hoque Md. Aminul , Aboni Anan Mahabub , Jasmeen Tasbira , Sanam Sherejad
Published: March 2023

Aims: The foremost aim of this study was to evaluate the 1:1 formed complex when mefenamic acid interacts with Cu2+, Zn2+, and EDTA4- metal at the physiological condition, which provides a better understanding of the pharmacological studies. This research provided information on the binding affinity of mefenamic acid with selective metals. It helps with preparative, structural, and reactivity studies for multiple drug designs in pharmaceutical fields.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmacy, Stamford University Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh & CARS ((Centre for Advanced Research in Sciences), University of Dhaka. The duration of this study is between September to December 2022.

Study Design: The Infrared spectra of Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), and Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) complex of Mefenamic Acid were investigated in the region between 4000 and 400 cm-1. These spectra were compared to standard peaks with specific functional groups. The binding interactions of the selected metal ions were demonstrated by significant variations in the intensities of the amino group of mefenamic acid after metal complexation.

Results: The interactions of the metal ions with the acid product have resulted in the alteration of the functional structure, characterized by a negligible reduction in the structure of mefenamic acid. The change in position of the characteristic bands, or the increase/ decrease in the number of bands and appearance of a new metal-atom bond, helps to confirm the formation of a complex.

Conclusion: It has been recently found that metal-based complexes decrease antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer action. In order to construct actively functioning medications, it is vital to study the ability of physiologically active metal ions to interact with metalloproteinases like albumin, which transport and distribute these metal ions. The current research set a standard for repeatable mefenamic acid metal ion research.
Chemical analysis of blue corn base malt and the effect of malting and roasting of blue corn malts on color and antioxidant compounds associated with antioxidant capacity
Authors: Flores-Calderón Alex María Daniela , Hernández-Carapia Miguel Ángel , Luna Héctor , Escalona-Buendía Héctor Bernardo
Published: March 2023

The objectives of this research were to carry out a chemical analysis of the base malts, to evaluate the effect of malting and roasting on both color and compounds associated with the antioxidant capacity (anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, melanoidins), and the capacity itself by ABTS and DPPH assays in base malt and caramel malt of blue corn. In order to provide styles of beers with different sensory characteristics as well as health benefits for the consumer, and since malt is the heart of beer, different cereals and pseudo-cereals have been malted. In addition to this, with the intention of taking advantage of the phenolic compounds present in the blue corn grain, and of developing color compounds as well as antioxidant activity through roasting, both blue corn base and caramel malts were developed. Results showed that the protein content was within the specified range for barley malt and, despite the malting not having a significant effect on the color parameters, a decrease in the anthocyanin content was observed. On the contrary, an increase in the content of phenolic acids as well as in the antioxidant capacity by DPPH assay in the base malt with respect to the grain was noticed. Additionally, the color of caramel malts increased in luminosity and chroma, and decreased in tone due to roasting. Likewise, the concentrations of anthocyanins and phenolic compounds depended on the roasting conditions. Moreover, the higher the roasting temperature was, the higher the concentrations of melanoidins were. Finally, malts that had a greater amount of phenolic compounds showed greater antioxidant capacity by ABTS assay, while malts that had a higher melanoidins content showed a greater antioxidant response by DPPH assay. In accordance with the results, it was concluded that the combined use of base and caramel malts to produce corn beer musts could provide significant amounts of compounds that will impact its color and antioxidant capacity, thereby favoring the chemical stability of the produc
Hydro-alcoholic extract of Ochradenus baccatus exhibits anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits enzyme of uric acid metabolism: Implications for bioactive molecules
Authors: Fahad Ullah Mohammad
Published: March 2023

Traditional medicines have been an accessible, affordable, and culturally acceptable model of healthcare that is trusted acrossthe globe in terms of disease management, symptoms relief and patient satisfaction. The natural products derived from plant sources arethe fundamental ingredients of traditional and folk medicine and serve as lead compounds or pharmacophore for most effective drugs inmodern pharmacology for treatment of infectious and chronic diseases. Ochradenus baccatus, which belongs to family Resedaceae, is aperennial shrub, widely distributed in the arid regions of Arabian Peninsula and finds mention in the traditional medicine for reproductivehealth, inflammation and infection. Results: As a proof-of-concept, this study has investigated the various bioactive properties of the plantvis-à-vis anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and inhibition of xanthine oxidase using standard in vitro experimental models. The bioactivemolecules found in the extract included flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, saponins and alkaloids in varying quantities, which are known tobe associated with a multitude of pharmacological properties. Our results show that the extract caused a progressive inhibition of DPPHradical and neutralizes superoxide anions in a dose-dependent manner. The extract demonstrated its redox-active potential by means of itsability to reduce Cu (II) to Cu (I) that is detected using bathocuproine, a Cu (I)-specific sequestering agent. Progressive doses of the extractsinhibited the denaturation of protein (a factor associated with inflammation), with maximum inhibition of 70.6% observed at concentrationof 600 μg/ml, after which the effect plateaued for further doses. Moreover, the extract displayed a progressive inhibitory property againstthe enzymatic activity of xanthine oxidase with a maximum inhibition of 66% observed at a dose of 300 μg/ml. Conclusion: Inhibition ofxanthine oxidase reduces the hyperuricemia in patients with gout and nephrolithiasis as it alleviates the tendency of salt accumulation inthe joints and kidney. The interest in the natural products pharmacology is escalating and exploring novel bioactive properties in plantsof interest is a significant stride from the traditional knowledge to evidence-based practice
Antimicrobial Edible Cellulose-Based (CB) Films and Coatings for Enhancing Microbial Safety of White Cheese During Storage
Authors: Yildirim Seval Cing , Ates Firat
Published: March 2023

In this research, the antioxidant and antibacterial characteristics of edible cellulose-based film (CBEF) coating incorporated with β-carotene, Hesperedin and Propolis on the quality of the white cheese at 4°C were investigated. Samples evaluated were: Control, CBE films with 8 different contents containing natural or non-natural antimicrobial agents for 15 days at 5 day intervals. The antimicrobial effects of edible cellulosic films prepared with antimicrobial agents against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, which are important food pathogens, were directly evaluated with artificially contaminated food samples under cold storage conditions. Fresh white cheese samples, which are one of the semi-hard traditional Turkish cheeses, were used for artificial contamination. The antimicrobial activity of the tested antimicrobial substances was measured by the paper disc method. The DPPH free radical scavenging activities, the total phenolic content, and the characteristics (FT-IR, DSC and TGA) of the CBEFs were investigated. All of the samples significantly reduced E. coli, S. aureus and total viable counts, as compared with control during the storage time. Specifically, it was determined that hesperidin sprayed films showed an antimicrobial effect on E.coli growth and carotene sprayed films showed an antimicrobial effect on S. aureus growth. Growth of both bacterial species was highly inhibited (>50%) in the presence of 20% propolis. It was concluded that β-carotene, hesperidin and propolis can be substituted as natural preservatives in white cheese. With this advanced packaging technology, food safety can be ensured, the shelf life of the product can be extended and food losses in this sector can be reduced.
Abscissic acid specific expression of RAB18 involves activation of anion channels in Arabidopsis thaliana suspension cells
Authors: Ghelis Thanos , Dellis Olivier , Jeannette Emmanuelle , Bardat Françoise , Cornel Daniel , Miginiac Emile , Rona Jean-Pierre , Sotta Bruno
Published: July 2002

The abscissic acid (ABA) transduction cascade following the plasmalemma perception was analyzed in intact Arabidopsis thaliana suspension cells. In response to impermeant ABA, anion currents were activated and K+ inward rectifying currents were inhibited. Anion current activation was required for the ABA specific expression of RAB18. By contrast, specific inhibition of K+ channels by tetraethylammonium or Ba2+ did not affect RAB18 expression. Thus, outer plasmalemma ABA perception triggered two separated signaling pathways.
Regulation of [Ca2+]i homeostasis in MRP1 overexpressing cells
Authors: Filipeanu Catalin M. , Nelemans Adriaan , Veldman Robert Jan , de Zeeuw Dick , Kok Jan Willem
Published: July 2002

Regulation of capacitative Ca2+ entry was studied in two different multidrug resistance (MDR) protein (MRP1) overexpressing cell lines, HT29col and GLC4/ADR. MRP1 overexpression was accompanied by a decreased response to thapsigargin. Moreover, inhibition of capacitative Ca2+ entry by D,L‐threo‐1‐phenyl‐2‐decanoylamino‐3‐morpholino‐1‐propanol (PDMP) was abolished in MRP1 overexpressing cells. Both PDMP and the MRP1 inhibitor MK571 greatly reduced InsP3‐mediated 45Ca2+ release from intracellular stores in HT29 cells. Again, these effects were virtually abolished in HT29col cells. Our results point to a modulatory role of MRP1 on intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) homeostasis which may contribute to the MDR phenotype.
Electron microscopy study of intrahepatic ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide kinetics in the rat. Relation with magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Dupas Benoit , Berreur Martine , Rohanizadeh Ramin , Bonnemain Bruno , Meflah Khaled , Pradal Gilbert
Published: July 2002

Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO) contrast agents for use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are currently undergoing clinical evaluation. However, the images observed and the kinetic profiles obtained differ from one agent to another. In this study, BD IX rats received an intravenous penis injection of the USPIO contrast agents AMI‐HS and AMI‐227. A cytologic study of the liver was performed, and the data obtained were compared with those of MRI. Images acquired in light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, microanalysis and electron diffraction provided data on the cell categories involved in the processing of these contrast agents, the importance and modalities of each category relative to this processing, and the modalities of agent elimination. AMI‐HS was rapidly removed from the bloodstream by Kupffer's cells and hepatocytes and then eliminated through bile ducts. AMI‐227 remained much longer in the blood compartment since it was processed very slowly by endothelial and Kuppfer's cells in the near absence of hepatocytic participation and thus of elimination by the bile ducts. These results allowed us to base our interpretation of MRI sequences on cytologic observations.
Asymmetric Ketone Reduction with Immobilized Yeast in Hexane: Biocatalyst Deactivation and Regeneration
Authors: Griffin Daniel R. , Gainer John L. , Carta Giorgio
Published: July 2002

There is a need to develop methods for producing enantiomerically pure pharmaceuticals because the racemic mixtures made today will probably not be allowed in the future. Synthetic chiral catalysts are being developed for this purpose, as well as new product separation techniques. Another possible option is to use biocatalysts, such as purified enzymes or whole microbial cells, since these can result in the production of mostly a single enantiomer. This study emphasizes the use of alginate‐entrapped yeast cells to catalyze the reduction of ketones as a model system. The emphasis is on the factors that might limit the reactivity of such cells, such as equilibrium conditions, substrate or product inhibition, solvent toxicity, loss of cell viability, or the degradation of intracellular levels of enzymes or cofactors.It was found that there was a progressive loss of catalytic activity of the immobilized yeast cells, which appeared to be mainly associated with a loss of cell viability and a decline of intracellular NAD(H) levels during the reaction. The other factors investigated did not have a large effect. A regeneration scheme was developed in order to replenish the intracellular NAD(H) lost during the reaction, which involved removing the biocatalyst from the reaction and supplying the cells with a nutrient source. This resulted in an increase in the NAD(H) to initial levels and also resulted in a maintenance of the ketone reduction rate over time.
Immobilized Metal Affinity Chromatography without Chelating Ligands: Purification of Soybean Trypsin Inhibitor on Zinc Alginate Beads
Authors: Gupta Munishwar N. , Jain Sulakshana , Roy Ipsita
Published: July 2002

Immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) is a widely used technique for bioseparation of proteins in general and recombinant proteins with polyhistidine fusion tags in particular. An expensive and critical step in this process is coupling of a chelating ligand to the chromatographic matrix. This chelating ligand coordinates metal ions such as Cu2+, Zn2+, and Ni2+, which in turn bind proteins. The toxicity of chemicals required for coupling and their slow release during the separation process are of considerable concern. This is an important issue in the context of purification of proteins/enzymes which are used in food processing or pharmaceutical purposes. In this work, a simpler IMAC design is described which should lead to a paradigm shift in the application of IMAC in separation. It is shown that zinc alginate beads (formed by chelating alginate with Zn2+ directly) can be used for IMAC. As “proof of concept”, soybean trypsin inhibitor was purified 18‐fold from its crude extract with 90% recovery of biological activity. The dynamic binding capacity of the packed bed was 3919 U mL‐1, as determined by frontal analysis. The media could be regenerated with 8 M urea and reused five times without any appreciable loss in its binding capacity.
Bronchoalveolar lavage in asthmatic children: Evidence of neutrophil activation in mild‐to‐moderate persistent asthma
Authors: Barbato Angelo , Panizzolo Cristina , Gheno Marta , Sainati Laura , Favero Elisabetta , Faggian Diego , Giusti Franca , Pesscolderungg Lidia , La Rosa Mario
Published: July 2002

Little information is available on cell profiles and mediator production in the lower airways of children with asthma by comparison with the adult population. To study the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cell profiles and production of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in childhood bronchial asthma, a retrospective study was performed in 29 children (13 allergic asthmatic children and 16 controls). Six of the asthmatics had mild‐to‐moderate persistent disease and seven had intermittent asthma. The BAL cell count and ECP and MPO values of asthmatic children were compared with those from 16 controls. The asthmatic patients had higher values than controls for the total cell count (p=0.08), for neutrophils (p=0.02), and for ECP and MPO (p<0.001). MPO levels (p=0.04), neutrophil count (p=0.06), and ECP values (p=0.06) were higher in patients with mild‐to‐moderate persistent asthma than in those with intermittent asthma. Our results demonstrate that neutrophil‐mediated inflammation is greater in patients with more severe asthma.
Accumulation of a 31‐kDa glycoprotein in association with the expression of embryogenic potential by spinach callus in culture
Authors: Ishizaki Takuma , Megumi Chiaki , Komai Fuminori , Masuda Kiyoshi , Oosawa Katsuji
Published: July 2002

Calli grown from segments of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) root in the presence of gibberellic acid (GA3) plus auxin, differentiated to yield somatic embryos after transfer to a medium without growth regulators, while calli formed in the absence of GA3 failed to generate any embryos. We extracted proteins from the two types of callus and analysed them by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Compared with the proteins from calli formed on medium that contained only naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) as a growth regulator, the proteins from calli grown in the presence of GA3 included appreciably higher levels of a 31‐kDa basic protein (pI = 8.8). The protein resembled type I ribosome‐inactivating proteins (EC 3.2.2.22) in terms of molecular mass, isoelectric point, sequence of amino‐terminal amino acids and extent of glycosylation. The 31‐kDa protein was barely detectable in extracts of various tissues from seedlings. Thus, it is possible that an increase in the relative level of this protein might be associated with the expression of embryogenic potential expressed by spinach callus.
Transplantation for liver tumors: current status
Authors: Ringe Burckhardt
Published: July 2002

Abstract:The question of liver transplantation for hepatobiliary malignancy has continued to generate controversial discussion. As shown by single‐center studies and large databases, there is a clear indication for total hepatectomy and liver replacement under the premises of appropriate selection of suitable patients as well as of favorable type and stage of tumors. Future improvement of tumor‐free patient survival can be expected from better understanding of tumor biology, including prevention and earlier detection of cancer, and effective multimodality treatment strategies.
The impact of the fungicide fenpropimorph (Corbel®) on bacterivorous and fungivorous protozoa in soil
Authors: Ekelund Flemming
Published: July 2002

1.The ability of indigenous soil protozoa to survive and multiply when exposed to various concentrations of the fungicide fenpropimorph was investigated. The number of protozoan taxa in relation to biocide concentration was examined in enrichment cultures. The population dynamics of bacterivorous and fungivorous protozoa, hyphal forming units, and respiration activity were followed in soil microcosms amended with glucose and various concentrations of fenpropimorph.

2.The average number of flagellate taxa detected in 50‐mg portions of air‐dried soil declined from 12 to zero with fenpropimorph concentrations increasing from 0 to 60 mg L–1. Naked amoebae and ciliates were present at all fenpropimorph concentrations. The 50‐mg soil portions initially contained 1·9 × 103heterotrophic flagellates, 1·4 × 103naked amoebae and about 5 ciliates. The presence of the two latter groups even at concentrations of 60 mg L–1therefore suggests that they are more tolerant to fenpropimorph than the soil flagellates.

3.The addition of glucose had a strong stimulatory effect on soil respiration, which lasted for about 20 days. Soil respiration in microcosms amended with glucose and pesticide was of the same order as in systems with glucose only; however, soil respiration was significantly impeded in microcosm systems with a low pesticide content and stimulated in systems with a high pesticide content.

4.Bacterivorous protozoa (naked amoebae and heterotrophic flagellates) were affected at all tested concentrations (0·74–750 mg L–1) of fenpropimorph. High concentrations, 6·6–750 mg L–1, impeded growth of the total protozoan population directly. Lower concentrations only affected heterotrophic flagellates significantly, possibly through a change in the microbial food web leading to increased competition from and/or predation by ciliates.

5.A low concentration of fenpropimorph (20 mg L–1) had only little effect on hyphal forming units and fungivorous protozoa. Hence, the observed harmful effects on the protozoan populations are probably not mediated through an effect on the fungal populations.

6.Bacterivorous protozoa were affected by fenpropimorph at concentrations lower than those expected in soil after normal field application. Since protozoa play an important role in nitrogen mineralization, the beneficial effect of the fungicide may be counteracted by detrimental side‐effects on soil N‐mineralization.
Assessment of graduates and diplomates in practice in the UK – are we measuring the same level of competence?
Authors: Girot Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2002

• With the recent proliferation in nursing degree programmes over the last 10 years and a suggestion that nursing moves towards an all‐graduate profession, the profession as well as the consumer needs to be sure that they are getting ‘value added’ with this ‘higher level’ practitioner.

• This paper revisits the debate on the meaning of competence in relation to fitness for practice.

• In particular it examines the expectations of the profession of newly registered practitioners at both diploma and degree levels of practice.

• It questions whether there is a difference in their level of competence at point of registration and whether it is possible to measure it.

• The paper presents a reflective approach to promoting ideas already emerging from the literature in relation to this measurement.

• It suggests a more effective use of students’ portfolios of evidence against stated learning outcomes as well as their specific achievements in a range of transferable skills.

• A partnership approach between student, practitioner/assessor and academic could usefully share responsibilities of the assessment of competence and ultimately empower the individual for their life‐long learning.
Segmentation of confocal microscope images of cell nuclei in thick tissue sections
Authors: ORTIZ DE SOLÓRZANO C. , GARCÍA RODRIGUEZ E. , JONES A. , PINKEL D. , GRAY J. W. , SUDAR D. , LOCKETT S. J.
Published: July 2002

Segmentation of intact cell nuclei from three‐dimensional (3D) images of thick tissue sections is an important basic capability necessary for many biological research studies. However, segmentation is often difficult because of the tight clustering of nuclei in many specimen types. We present a 3D segmentation approach that combines the recognition capabilities of the human visual system with the efficiency of automatic image analysis algorithms. The approach first uses automatic algorithms to separate the 3D image into regions of fluorescence‐stained nuclei and unstained background. This includes a novel step, based on the Hough transform and an automatic focusing algorithm to estimate the size of nuclei. Then, using an interactive display, each nuclear region is shown to the analyst, who classifies it as either an individual nucleus, a cluster of multiple nuclei, partial nucleus or debris. Next, automatic image analysis based on morphological reconstruction and the watershed algorithm divides clusters into smaller objects, which are reclassified by the analyst. Once no more clusters remain, the analyst indicates which partial nuclei should be joined to form complete nuclei. The approach was assessed by calculating the fraction of correctly segmented nuclei for a variety of tissue types:Caenorhabditis elegansembryos (839 correct out of a total of 848), normal human skin (343/362), benign human breast tissue (492/525), a human breast cancer cell line grown as a xenograft in mice (425/479) and invasive human breast carcinoma (260/335). Furthermore, due to the analyst's involvement in the segmentation process, it is always known which nuclei in a population are correctly segmented and which not, assuming that the analyst's visual judgement is correct.
Immunological Cytokine Correlates of Protective Immunity and Pathogenesis in Leprosy
Authors: Lima M. C. B. S. , Pereira G. M. B. , Rumjanek F. D. , Gomes H. M. , Duppre N. , Sampaio E. P. , Alvim I. M. P. , Nery J. A. C. , Sarno E. N. , Pessolani M. C. V.
Published: July 2002

The in vitro production of interferon (IFN)‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐5, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and IL‐10 by blood mononuclear cells in response to whole Mycobacterium leprae and polyclonal stimulii of 23 individuals, representing a variety of conditions in relation to exposure/susceptibility to M. leprae, was assayed. In most cases, healthy household contacts of newly diagnosed multibacillary leprosy patients, designated exposed household contacts (EC), showed low‐to‐undetectable in vitro IFN‐γ production in addition to substantial TNF‐α production in response to M. leprae. In contrast, peripheral blood mononuclear cells from previously exposed contacts (R) regarded as resistant‐to‐leprosy released low‐to‐moderate levels of IFN‐γ together with a mixed cytokine profile resembling a T helper (Th)0‐type response. TNF‐α/IL‐10 ratios in response to M. leprae and Concanavalin A were significantly higher in EC than in R contacts suggesting a role for the TNF‐α/IL‐10 ratio in restraining mycobacteria proliferation and spreading early in infection. The cytokine profiles of leprosy patients were taken as reference points. Post‐treatment lepromatous leprosy patients secreted relatively high levels of IL‐10 in response to M. leprae, whereas one self‐cured tuberculoid leprosy patient produced simultaneously high levels of IFN‐γ and TNF‐α. In addition, the quantitative changes in the cytokines released by peripheral blood mononuclear cells in EC contacts after Bacille Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) vaccination were investigated. Vaccination induced amplification of IFN‐γ production with a concomitant decrease in TNF‐α/IL‐10 ratios that resembled the cytokine pattern observed in R contacts. IFN‐γ production was observed in response to both a cross‐reactive antigen (Ag 85) and a M. leprae‐specific protein (MMP‐I), which attests to a BCG nonspecific stimulation of the immune system, thereby casting these antigens as likely candidates for inclusion in a subunit vaccine against leprosy. Finally, a model for protective × pathologic response to mycobacteria is presented.
Changes in the uptake of antiretroviral therapy and survival in people with known duration of HIV infection in Europe: results from CASCADE
Authors:   CASCADE Collaboration
Published: July 2002

Objectives To estimate the times from HIV seroconversion to death, and to the initiation of therapy and the mean CD4 cell count at initiation.

Design and methods Using Kaplan–Meier methods, allowing for late entry, we analysed CASCADE (Concerted Action on SeroConversion to AIDS and Death in Europe) data from HIV‐infected individuals with known dates of seroconversion. We tested the association of time to initiation of therapy and of survival with: exposure category, age, sex, presentation during acute infection and calendar year at risk (as time‐dependent) in Cox proportional hazards models, stratifying by study. We estimated the mean CD4 cell count at the initiation of therapy using interval regression.

Results Of 5893 seroconverters, 1613 (27.4%) died. The risk of death was 65% lower (95% CI = 57–72%) in 1997–99 compared to previous years. Being at risk in earlier calendar years, older age and a short interval between negative and positive test dates were associated with shorter survival. At the same time from seroconversion, people at risk in 1997–99, older individuals and people with a short test interval were more likely to initiate therapy. Injecting drug users (IDUs) were less likely to initiate therapy compared to those exposed through sex between men (RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.69–0.89). The mean CD4 cell count at therapy initiation was 205 cells/mL, which increased significantly over time. Although the earlier initiation of therapy was consistent with longer survival in the 1997–99 period, we found no evidence of this in other calendar periods.

Conclusions We found a significant and substantial reduction in the risk of death and a significant trend of earlier initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the 1997–99 period. Although IDUs were less likely to initiate therapy their overall survival did not appear to differ from others. The increasing tendency to initiate ART closer to seroconversion has unknown long‐term consequences which require monitoring.
The Evolutionary Reduction of Microsporangia in Microseris (Asteraceae): Transition Genotypes and Phenotypes
Authors: Gailing O. , Bachmann K.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: The loss of the two inner (adaxial) microsporangia (MS) on the anthers is a shared, derived character for three species of the genus Microseris (Asteraceae). In a hybrid between M. douglasii (4 MS) and M. bigelovii (2 MS), one major gene and four modifier loci are responsible for the difference in MS number. The homozygous recessive (2 MS) genotype of the major gene is necessary but not sufficient for the reduction. In addition, at least five M. bigelovii (2 MS) alleles of the three major modifiers are needed for a stable 2‐MS phenotype in all florets of a plant. One, two or three M. bigelovii alleles of the modifiers cause the random reduction or loss of some of the adaxial MS. When the major gene and two modifiers specify 2 MS and only one modifier is homozygous for the M. douglasii (4 MS) alleles, sister plants can have any phenotype from pure 2 MS to pure 4 MS. Here, we examine the phenotypic expression of these genotypes raised under the normal winter annual conditions and under long‐day conditions. In all cases, the phenotypes vary among sister plants, but the range of variation (most notably under long‐day conditions) depends on the specific modifier gene contributing the M. douglasii alleles. The phenotypic variance in one of the genotypes was decreased by a factor of ten in the depauperate heads produced in the long‐day experiment. This effect is mediated by a dependence of the MS phenotype on the position of the floret relative to the edge of the flowering head (capitulum) and directly by the size of the capitulum. Genotypes specifying phenotypes with more or less precisely two or four MS in all florets show hardly any dependence on environmental or developmental factors. The significance of these observations lies in the non‐linear, “canalized” relationship between phenotypic expression and gene dosage, which shows how a qualitative morphological change dependent on a single major gene mutation can pass through a potentially maladaptive intermediate stage.
Genome Analysis of a Natural Hybrid with 2n= 63 Chromosomes in the GenusElytrigiaDesv. (Poaceae) Using the GISH Technique
Authors: Refoufi A. , Jahier J. , Esnault M.‐A.
Published: July 2002

Abstract:Genomicin situhybridization (GISH), using genomic DNA probes fromThinopyrum elongatum(E genome, 2n= 14),Th. bessarabicum(J genome, 2n= 14),Pseudoroegneria stipifolia(S genome, 2n= 14),Agropyron cristatum(P genome, 2n= 28) andCritesion californicum(H genome, 2n= 14), was used to identify the genome constitution of a natural hybrid population morphologically close toElytrigia pycnanthaand with somatic chromosome number of 2n= 63. The GISH results indicated the presence of a chromosomal set more or less closely related to the E, P, S and H genomes. In particular, two sets of 14 chromosomes each showed close affinity to the E genome ofTh. elongatumand to the P genome ofA. cristatum.However, they included 2 and 10 mosaic chromosomes, respectively, with S genome specific sequences at their centromeric regions. Two additional sets (28 chromosomes) appeared to be very closely related to the S genome ofPs. stipifolia.The last genome involved (7 chromosomes) is related to the H genome ofC. californicumbut includes one chromosome with S genome‐specific sequences around the centromere and two other chromosomes with a short interstitial segment also containing S genome related sequences. On a basis of GISH analysis and literature data, it is hypothesized that the natural 9‐ploid hybrid belongs to the genusElytrigiaand results from fertilization of an unreduced gamete (n = 42) ofE. pycnanthaand a reduced gamete (n = 21) ofE. repens.The genomic formula SSSSPSPSESESHSis proposed to describe its particular genomic and chromosomal composition.
A Unified Law of Spatial Allometry for Woody and Herbaceous Plants
Authors: Pretzsch H.
Published: July 2002

Abstract:The objective of the present paper is to provide both proof and theoretical deduction of an overlapping, valid law of allometry for woody and herbaceous plants used in agriculture and forestry. In his attempt to find an adequate expression for stand density, independent of site quality and age, Reineke (1933[281]) developed the following equation for even‐aged and fully stocked forest stands in the northwest of the USA: ln(N) = a ‐ 1.605 . ln(dg), based on the relationship between the average diameter dg and the number N of trees per unit area. With no knowledge of these results, Kira et al. (1953[281]) and Yoda et al. (1957[281]and 1963[281]) found the boundary line ln(m) = b ‐ 3/2 . ln(N) in their study of herbaceous plants. This self‐thinning rule ‐ also called the ‐ 3/2‐power rule ‐ describes the relationship between the average weight m of a plant and the density N in even‐aged herbaceous plant populations growing under natural development conditions. It is possible to make a transition from Yoda's rule to Reineke's stand density rule if mass m in the former rule is substituted by the diameter dg. From biomass analyses for the tree species spruce (Picea abies[L.] Karst.) and beech (Fagus sylvaticaL.), allometric relationships between biomass m and diameter d are derived. Using the latter in the equation ln(m) = b ‐ 3/2 . ln(N) leads to allometric coefficients for spruce (Picea abies[L.] Karst.) and beech (Fagus sylvaticaL.), that come very close to the Reineke coefficient. Thus Reineke's rule (1933[281]) proves to be a special case of Yoda's rule. Both rules are based on the simple allometric law governing the volume of a sphere v and its surface of projection s: v = c1. s3/2. If the surface of projection s, is substituted by the reciprocal value of the number of stems s = 1/N and the isometric relationship between volume v and biomass m is considered v = c2. m1.0we come to Yoda's rule m = c3. N‐3/2or, in logarithmic terms, ln(m) = ln c3‐ 3/2 . ln(N).
Two-dimensional exciton transport in GaAs/GaAlAs quantum wells
Authors: Hillmer H. , Hansmann S. , Forchel A. , Morohashi M. , Lopez E. , Meier H. P. , Ploog K.
Published: July 2002

Using microstructured masks and picosecond spectroscopy we have investigated the lateral expansion of two-dimensional excitons in GaAs/GaAlAs quantum wells with very high spatial resolution (∼0.1 μm). The exciton motion can be described by an isothermal diffusion which strongly depends on the well width. The increase of the excitonic diffusivity with increasing well width observed experimentally is attributed to the decrease of the interface roughness scattering probability.
Depth profile of vacancy-type defects in B+-implanted Si with a SiO2 overlayer by a variable-energy positron beam
Authors: Uedono A. , Tanigawa S. , Sugiura J. , Ogasawara M.
Published: July 2002

A variable-energy positron beam technique has been used to probe the vacancy-type defects in Si with a 43-nm-thick SiO2 layer induced by B+ implantation with the energy of 80 keV. From the measurements of line shape parameters as a function of incident positron energy, it was found that defects in the Si substrate are distributed in a parabolic form with the average depth shallower by 27% than the projected range of B+ ions for the specimen with a dose of 5×1012 B/cm2 and that defects are accumulated in large quantities at the SiO2 /Si interface for the specimen with higher doses.
Fuel areal density measurement of laser-imploded targets by use of elastically scattered protons
Authors: Nakaishi H. , Miyanaga N. , Azechi H. , Yamanaka M. , Yamanaka T. , Takagi M. , Jitsuno T. , Nakai S.
Published: July 2002

A new method for the measurement of the density-radius product (ρR) of laser-imploded plasmas is presented. Deuterium-tritium-hydrogen fuel mixture is used and the spectrum of protons elastically scattered by 14.1 MeV neutrons is measured with nuclear emulsion. The reliability of this method was certified by comparing the inferred ρR value with that from the secondary reaction method in equivalent experimental conditions.