bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges of Indian Health System Supporting Migrant Healthcare during a Pandemic
Authors: Kumanan Meera , Nagpal Rajeev
Published: July 2020

The “Type of Article” of this paper is “Letter to the Editor”. This paper discuses about: “Challenges of Indian Health System Supporting Migrant Healthcare during a Pandemic”. No formal abstract is available. Readers are requested to read the full article.
Some Haematological Parameters among Urinary Schistosomiasis-Malaria Coinfected Children in Suburb of Malentouen Health District, West Region Cameroon
Authors: Leonard Keptcheu T. D.
Published: July 2020

Background: Schistosomiasis and Malaria are among the most prevalent afflictions of humans who live in areas of poverty in the developing world. The present study was aimed at determining the socio demographic characteristics and prevalence of schistosomiasis and malaria in children living in Suburb of Malentouen Health District and analyzing the effect of co-infection on haemoglobin level, mean corpuscular volume and platelet count.

Methods: Questionnaires were distributed to parents or guardians of children attending public primary school in the area. A total of 429 pupils aged 6-15 years old were screened for urinary schistosomiasis and 228 out of the 429 were tested for. Prevalences of the two parasites were calculated; Haemoglobin level, Mean Corpuscular Volume and platelets count of the 228 participants were recorded.

Results: The prevalence of malaria was 26.75%, where as that of schistosomiasis was 43.82%. 31(13.60%) of the participants were co-infected with the two parasites. Mean haemoglobin level obtained was 11.01± 1.19 G/dL, that of MCV was 84.50±5.31/fl and the mean platelet count was 255.13±96.99/µl. In malaria single infected and co-infected participants, low haemoglobin level (c2 = 50.315, p = .000), low MCV (c2 = 27.448, p = .000) and low platelets count (c2 = 37.253, p = .000) were observed with significant variations.

Conclusions: The three haematological parameters analysed in this study (Hb, MCV, Platelets count), showed low level or amount in malaria and malaria-schistosomiasis infected participants. Moreover, thrombocytopenia in children in this endemic area may be useful as supportive diagnostic criteria for malaria in case with low level of parasite number.
Sex Hormone Disruption and Histological Changes in Testes on Chronic Dichlorvos Exposure in Animal Model
Authors: Vhriterhire Raymond A. , Odeh Samuel O. , Egesie Gideon U.
Published: July 2020

Background: Dichlorvos is an organophosphate used indiscriminately as a pesticide in homes and for agricultural purposes. This study evaluated the effects of its low dose sub-lethal chronic exposure on male reproductive function using an animal (Rattus norvegicus) model.

Methodology: Three groups of rats were given dichlorvos at the dosages of 0.28 mg/kg, 0.56 mg/kg and 1.68 mg/kg respectively on alternate days. The control group was given only plain drinking water. The experiment lasted for 50 weeks.

Results: Dichlorvos induced a dosage variation effect on blood levels of follicle stimulating hormone but this was insignificant on levels of luteinizing hormone, oestrogen, progesterone and dihydrotestosterone. Prolonged treatment with dichlorvos had no overall influence on luteinizing hormone levels. The major histological findings in descending order of frequency included tubular atrophy and degeneration, germ cell depletion, germ cell exfoliation, tubular necrosis, spermatid retention and Leydig cell hyperplasia, each scored on a semi-quantitative scale. After 50 weeks of dichlorvos treatment, progesterone and oestrogen blood levels both had strong positive correlations with the frequency of germ cell exfoliation and residual bodies in the testes. In contrast, there was no statistically significant correlation between blood levels of follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and dihydrotestosterone and the histological findings.

Conclusion: This research evaluated the chronic effect of low dichlorvos exposure on reproductive function using an animal model. There was a strong positive correlation between progesterone and germ cell exfoliation and residual bodies. Oestrogen also correlated with germ cell exfoliation, depletion and presence of residual bodies. Furthermore, the correlation between the blood hormone levels and histological changes in the testes was largely unpredictable.
Role of Gut Microbiome on Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Oshim Ifeanyi O. , Agbakoba Nneka R. , Urama Evelyn U. , Odeyemi Oluwayemisi , Olise Nkechi A. , John Godsplan U.
Published: July 2020

Microbiome that reside in the human gut are key contributors to host metabolism and are considered potential sources of novel therapeutics in metabolic disorders. This review discusses the role of gut microbiome in the pathogenesis of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. Gut microbiome remains quite stable, although changes take place between birth and adulthood due to external influences, such as diet, disease and environment. Understanding these changes is important to predict diseases and develop therapies. In gut heamostasis, Gut microbiome converts high fibres intake into short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, propionate and acetate which normalize intestinal permeability and alter de novo lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis through reduction of free fatty acid production by visceral adipose tissue. This effect contributes to reduce food intake and to improve glucose metabolism. Propionate can also bind to G protein coupled receptors (GPR)-43 expressed on lymphocytes in order to maintain appropriate immune defence. Butyrate activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) leading to beta-oxidation and oxygen consumption, a phenomenon contributing to maintain anaerobic condition in the gut lumen. In contrast, diets most especially western diet consisting among others of high fat and high salt content has been reported to cause gut dysbiosis. This alteration of gut microbiome result to chronic bacterial translocation and increased intestinal permeability that can drive a systemic inflammation leading to macrophage influx into visceral adipose tissue, activation of hepatic kuffer cells and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. This effect contributes to lower mucus thickness, decrease butyrate and propionate producing bacteria, L-cells secrete less gut peptides, lack of PPAR-γ activation lead to higher oxygen available for the microbiome at the proximity of the mucosa and increases the proliferation of Enterobacteriaceae with commensurate increase in opportunistic pathogens. However, Gut microbiome are major biomarker for early prognosis of diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
Cognitive Dissonance, Attitude Change and Ways to Reduce Cognitive Dissonance: A Review Study
Authors: Annu . , Dhanda Bimla
Published: July 2020

Cognitive dissonance is the state of psychological discomfort or tension that knowledgeable by the people who have more than two conflicting attitude, values and belief happen at same period of time. Its conception associated with self-doubt at the time of making decision. The aim of this review study is to emphasize on cognitive dissonance, reasons to cause the cognitive dissonance, cognitive dissonance theory with revisions, association between cognitive dissonance and the strategies to elimination of cognitive dissonance. The cognitive dissonance is most impactful in the social psychology in past time. The revisions of the cognitive dissonance theory emphasizes on that the cognitive dissonance arises by the function of self-concept. The cognitive dissonance caused by many reasons namely: force compliance behaviour, gain new information, during decision making and effort made by the person. The existence of cognitive dissonance increases the state of motivation in person to change the attitude. The cognitive dissonance is strongly associated with changes in attitude. The changes in behavioural, social cognitive elements, addition of new elements and avoidance of dissonance are the strategies to lessen cognitive dissonance.
Impact of Foeniculum vulgare Fortified Diet on Coagulation Profile and Some Biochemical Parameters
Authors: Abbas Afshan , Ikram Rahila , Hasan Faiza , Bukhari Qurrat Ul Ain , Sarfaraz Sana , Adil Abeer
Published: July 2020

Aims: Coagulation profile shows the clotting ability of blood. Biochemical tests indicate health status of vital organs such as liver, heart and kidneys. Herbal products are being assessed for their role in affecting these parameters. We evaluated role of Foeniculum vulgare incorporated diet on coagulation profile and some important biochemical parameters.

Study Design:  Laboratory centred randomized controlled trial.

Place and Duration of Study: Pharmacology Department of University of Karachi, Karachi between June 2018 and September 2018.

Methodology: After selecting 30 healthy rabbits of either sex, we placed them in three groups; Control, 2% Foeniculum vulgare and 4% Foeniculum vulgare group. Control group was given standard diet whereas; 2% and 4% Foeniculum vulgare groups were maintained on standard diet containing 2% and 4% Foeniculum vulgare crushed seeds. Coagulation profile and some biochemical parameters were done after interval of a month, for two months.

Results: Platelet count and fibrinogen increased while activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) levels decreased in both the study groups animals as compared to control, while blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine phosphokinase (CPK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) elevation was noted both Foeniculum vulgare groups but within normal range.

Conclusion: Foeniculum vulgare may have some role in affecting coagulation and biochemical profile These parameters, however, need clinical trial to validate reliability.
Metformin as an Adjuvant Therapy Attenuates Dextran Sulphate Sodium-induced Acute Colitis in Rats
Authors: Magadmi Rania M. , Aljahdali Fahad H. , Alsawy Mustafa , Ali Ahmed S. , Kamel Fatemah O.
Published: July 2020

Aims: In numerous cases, patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are refractory to standard treatment. Sirolimus (SIR) and tacrolimus (TAC) are immunosuppressant drugs with encouraging outcomes. However, they have side effects causing limitations in their use. Metformin (MET), which is an antidiabetic drug, has promising anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, this study aimed to validate the effect of the concomitant administration of MET and SIR or TAC in the management of experimentally induced colitis.

Study Design: Dextran sulphate (DSS) induced colitis model was used.

Methodology: Colitis was induced by administering 5% DSS in water twice daily via oral gavage for 9 days. MET 200 mg/kg alone or in combination with SIR 1 mg/kg or TAC 1 mg/kg was started on day 7 and was continuously administered for 12 days. Then, samples of distal colon tissues were collected for histopathological and immunohistochemistry staining. Then, the pro-inflammatory cytokine, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-17A levels in tissue homogenates were measured.

Results: MET, SIR or TAC significantly attenuated the effect of DSS and the levels of all pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, adding MET reinforces the effect of SIR and TAC.

Conclusion: MET had a strong anti-inflammatory effect against DSS-induced colitis. Hence, it could be a promising adjuvant therapy in the management of IBDs. The effect was mediated, in part, by inhibiting NF-κB activation. However, the results of this study must be further validated and translated to clinical implications.
Control Measures on Groundwater Pollution through Leakages of Underground Storage Tanks of Filling Stations in Nigeria
Authors: Odipe Oluwaseun E. , Sawyerr Henry O. , Adewoye Solomon O.
Published: July 2020

Background: Groundwater pollution from leakages of Underground Storage Tanks is a global issue and has been significantly controlled and maintained by many developed countries in the last 30 years. The knowledge and practices used in containing this environmental issue can also be applied locally in Nigeria.

Methods: This paper reviewed the environmental policies and strategies put in place by the United States of America and the statutory regulations in Nigeria to identify the possible causes of pollution from leaking underground storage tanks within the country in order to recommend applicable preventive and control measures.

Results: Findings showed there are lots of regulations and laws to protect environmental resources in Nigeria which has led to establishment of different ministries, departments and agencies of government for implementation yet, a number of shortcomings can be traced to its inability to efficiently control leaking underground storage tanks in filling stations nationwide.

Conclusion: However, necessary recommendations were made which could be applied by implementing minor preventive measures and procedures that will significantly curb this menace as achieved in other developed nations of the world.
Quality of life of family members/caregivers of elderly people bearing alzheimer’s disease: support group contributions
Authors: Oliveira Thamires Ineu de , Maziero Bruna Rodrigues , Buriol Daniela , Rosa Paloma Horbach da , Ilha Silomar
Published: July 2020

Objective: The study’s main purpose has been to analyze the QOL of family members/caregivers of elderly people bearing Alzheimer's disease, as well as to assess during this process the influence of the group named Integrated Multidisciplinary Assistance to Caregivers of people bearing Alzheimer's disease (IMACA). Methods: It is a descriptive-exploratory study with a qualitative approach that was performed with six family members/caregivers, who were participants in the aforementioned group. Data collection took place from April to May 2016, through data sharing between the focus group, semi-structured questionnaire and the assessment of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) for quality of life. Results: The independent data were subjected to content analysis resulting in two categories, as follows: IMACA group: sharing knowledge and experiences in favor of the quality of life; IMACA group: (re)thinking about everyday life, helping with the quality of life. By analyzing the SF-36 evaluation scale, the found objective data pointed out the following factors as the most impaired ones: Limitations due to physical, emotional and vital aspects. Conclusions: It was possible to observe that the Integrated Multidisciplinary Assistance to Caregivers of people bearing Alzheimer's disease has shown significant relevance and influence on the participating family members’/caregivers’ quality of life.
Sociodemographic and epidemiological profile of women users of a psychosocial attention center
Authors: Barbosa Valquiria Farias Bezerra , Pereira Juliane da Silva , Valença Mércia Alcântara Feitosa , Alexandre Ana Carla Silva , Cavalcanti Silvana dos Santos , Leal Rebeca Cavalcanti
Published: July 2020

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the sociodemographic and epidemiological profile of women with mental disorders, emphasizing the gynecological, reproductive and sexual aspects. Method: A cross-sectional study, carried out at the Psychosocial Attention Center, with 31 women, aged 18 years or more, undergoing regular treatment. A data collection instrument in a structured format was used and data were analyzed using the SPSS software, version 18.0. This project was approved by one Research Ethics Committee under registration CAAE 56546216.0.0000.5195. Results: There was a predominance of women in drug therapy (96.8%), low sexual activity (61.3%), high adherence to cervical cancer screening test (74.2%) and low adherence to family planning (77.4%). Conclusion: An integral care provided to women with mental disorders, users of the Psychosocial Attention Care, requires an alignment among the policies of integral attention to women's health and mental health, through matrix support with primary health care.
Libras as a tool for providing mental health care: from barrier to access
Authors: Santo Tiago Braga do Espírito , Silva leticia Ramos da , Mendonça Fabiane dias de
Published: July 2020

Objective: The study’s purpose has been to identify the concept of Comprehensive Health Care regarding the idea of Access and Barrier; furthermore, to validate the use of Língua Brasileira de Sinais (LIBRAS) [Brazilian Sign Language, BSL] as a tool for providing Comprehensive Care in a Mental Health ambulatory. Methods: It is a descriptive-exploratory research with a qualitative approach, type of Experience Report, which is supported by the data collection of a Field Diary of the trajectory of a Guide-User as a way of mapping and analyzing the service that provides care in Mental Health, regarding the concepts of Access and Barrier. Results: In the care service, the user and his/her caregiver communicated through LIBRAS, but the professional was unaware of that language. It was observed that the non-appropriation of LIBRAS resulted in a communication barrier during the care service. Conclusion: The health care services should develop practices that allow building drives, meetings and production of different ways of being in the world.
Records covered under the maria da penha law by the military police in border areas
Authors: Mazuí Madeline Mazuí Guterres Suarez , Poll Marcia Adriana , Tier Cenir Gonçalves , Lana Letice Dalla
Published: July 2020

OBJECTIVE: The study’s main purpose has been to characterize the services performed by the Military Police of the 1st Border Area Policing Battalion (1st BAPB) covering violence against women under the Maria da Penha Law. METHODS: It is a documentary research with a quantitative and retrospective approach, addressing the police incident reports from the Military Police over 2014. RESULTS: Considering the 3,094 cases covered by the Military Police of the 1st BAPB, 565 (18.26%) of the cases were related to violence against women under the Maria da Penha Law, and 426 (13.76%) cases reported where related to Qualified Theft events. Concerning the 565 reported cases, 205 (36.30%) of the women who were victims of violence remained under protective measures during 2014. Only 278 (49.20%) of the offenders were forwarded to the Civil Police to register the occurrence. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that, when knowing how much violence is present in the municipal area, new social practices and health actions can be structured, as well as, subsidize or direct public policies aimed at border regions with similar characteristics.
Spectral and kinetic pH‐dependence of fast and slow signal II in tris‐washed chloroplasts
Authors: Boussac Alain , Etienne Anne-Lise
Published: July 2002

We focus this report on the relationship between signal II fast and slow during a flash sequence for Tris‐washed chloroplasts at different pH‐values. The pH influences both the redox state and spectral form of signal II slow in dark‐adapted chloroplasts. At pH 6.0, signal II slow is oxidized and does not influence the kinetics of signal II fast equally formed on each flash. At pH 8.5, signal II slow in mainly reduced in the dark and the first flash produces signal II slow and no signal fast. Signal II fast appears on the following flashes only. Signals II fast and slow are connected to the same center and signal II fast is observed only if signal II slow is oxidized.
A protein essential for recovering oxygen evolution in cholate‐treated chloroplasts
Authors: Toyoshima Yoshinori , Fukutaka Eitaro
Published: July 2002

A novel method for the reconstitution of oxygen evolution in cholate‐extracted spinach thylakoid membranes was established and a protein essential for the reconstitution was purified from cholate extracts. Purification of the protein was accomplished by chromatography on a DEAE‐Sephacel column. This protein (Mr17 000) was reinserted into vesicular membranes reconstituted from cholate‐extracted thylakoids in the presence of 25% glycerol to reactivate oxygen evolution.
A relationship between the midpoint potential of the primary acceptor and low temperature photochemistry in photosystem II
Authors: Rutherford A.W. , Mathis P.
Published: July 2002

Redox titrations of the photo‐induced pheophytin EPR signal in Photosystem II show two transitions which reflect the redox state of Q. The high potential wave (Em⋍ −50 mV) can be photo‐induced at 5 K and 77 K. The low potential wave (Em⋍ −275 mV) required illumination at 200 K. This indicates the presence of two kinds of PS‐II reaction centres differing in terms of the competence of their donors at low temperature and theEm‐values of their acceptors. Measurements of the semiquinone‐iron acceptor also demonstrate functional heterogeneity at low temperature. This is the first observation of the semiquinone‐iron acceptor in a non‐mutant species.
Acetoacetate: a major substrate for the synthesis of cholesterol and fatty acids by isolated rat hepatocytes
Authors: Geelen M.J.H. , Lopes-Cardozo M. , Edmond J.
Published: July 2002

Evidence is presented that isolated, intact rat hepatocytes can synthesize fatty acids and cholesterol from acetoacetate. The quantitative importance of these processes is evaluated by measuring total rates of fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis by incorporation of 3H from 3H2O. The contribution of acetoacetate varies from 14–54% and from 21–75% for de novo synthesized fatty acids and cholesterol, respectively, depending on the physiological condition of the donor rat. The relative contribution of acetoacetate to cholesterol synthesis is 1.4–2.3‐times greater than to fatty acid synthesis.
Evidence for different binding sites on the 33‐kDa protein for DCMU, atrazine and QB
Authors: Astier Chantal , Boussac Alain , Etienne Anne-Lise
Published: July 2002

Two DCMU‐resistant strains of the cyanobacteriumSynechocystis6714 were used to analyse the binding sites of DCMU, atrazine and QB. DCMUr‐IIAwas DCMU and atrazine resistant; it presented an impaired electron flow and its 33‐kDa protein was weakly attached to the membrane. DCMUr‐IIB, derived from the former, simultaneously regained atrazine sensitivity, normal electron flow and a tight linkage of the 33‐kDa protein to the membrane. This mutant shows that loss of DCMU binding does not necessarily affect the binding of either atrazine or QB. The role of the 33‐kDa protein is discussed.
The effect of chloroplast pH on the distribution of excitation energy between photosystems I and II suggests the involvement of two kinases in state 1‐state 2 transitions
Authors: Canaani Ora
Published: July 2002

The effect of medium pH on state 1‐state 2 transitions was investigated in an intact leaf using the photoacoustic technique. Oxygen evolution yield in a leaf adapted to state 2 was independent of external pH. Emerson enhancement of modulated oxygen evolution during adaptation to state 2 was found to be pH dependent, with minima at pH 6.0–6.5 and 8.0–8.5. These minima correspond to two maxima for the balance of excitation energy distribution between photosystems I and II. A similar pH dependence was found for the initial rate of ATP‐induced fluorescence quenching in isolated thylakoids. These results suggest that protein phosphorylation is maximal at pH 6.0–6.5 and 8.0–8.5. It is proposed that these pH maxima in protein phosphorylation reflect the participation of two kinases in the transition to state 2.
The release of polypeptides and manganese from oxygen‐evolving photosystem II preparations following zinc‐treatment
Authors: Miller Mette
Published: July 2002

Inhibition of oxygen evolution in photosystem II membrane fragments from pea chloroplasts by washing with Zn2+causes appearance of the EPR signal of Mn(H2O)62+. This Mn2+remains associated with the membrane fraction. Release of Mn2+into the medium was correlated with the amount of the 23 kDa protein removed from the membrane. This suggests that this protein may function as a ‘gate’ to an aqueous compartment into which Mn2+is released. Inhibition by Zn2+correlated with the release of 1 Mn2+per reaction centre, out of a total stoichiometry of 4 Mn atoms per reaction centre. By comparing the release of Mn following Zn‐treatment of NaCI or CaC12washed membranes, it is concluded that the 33 kDa protein is involved in binding of 2 Mn.
Optical difference spectrum of the electron acceptor Aoin photosystem I
Authors: Mansfield R.W. , Evans M.C.W.
Published: July 2002

Photosystem IPrimary acceptorOptical difference spectrumChlorophyll a monomer
Evidence for two tightly bound iron‐quinones in the electron acceptor complex of photosystem II
Authors: Evans M.C.W. , Ford R.C.
Published: July 2002

The EPR signal of the iron‐quinone electron acceptor of photosystem II in higher plant chloroplasts is normally difficult to observe. If the preparation is washed with formate to remove boundCO2the signal becomes larger. Using formate‐washed photosystem II particles from peas the redox potential of the ironquinone complex has been determined. Two waves are observed in the titrations atEm~0 and ~ −250 mV. The ability to reduce the pheophytin intermediary electron acceptor by illumination at 200 K is largely associated with the −250 mV step. It is suggested that there are two tightly bound quinones in the reaction centre and that the low‐potential component is Qa. It is unlikely that the high‐potential component is the gating quinone (Qb) as it is not displaced by DCMU and is present inChlamydomonas reinhardtiipreparations which lack the gating quinone.
The interaction of silicomolybdate with the photosystem II herbicide‐binding site
Authors: Graan Thomas
Published: July 2002

Silicomolybdate and silicotungstate are unique among photosystem II electron acceptors in that they catalyze photosystem II‐dependent electron transfer in thylakoid membranes that is resistant to inhibition by diuron. On this basis it is generally accepted that these compounds interact with the photosystem II electron transfer sequence prior to the site of diuron inhibition thereby creating an even more abbreviated partial reaction than is found with other photosystem II electron acceptors. The data presented here demonstrate that low concentrations of the silicomolybdate anion (10–30 μM) inhibit the binding of [14C]diuron to spinach thylakoid membranes. This effect of silicomolybdate is reversible and is a function of the redox state of silicomolybdate. Reduction of silicomolybdate leads to a loss of its ability to prevent herbicide binding. Thus, there is no reason to believe that silicomolybdate intercepts electrons from photosystem II prior to the site of diuron intervention or at a site different from any other photosystem II electron acceptor.
Difference in sensitivity to photoinhibition between photosystem II in the appressed and non‐appressed thylakoid regions
Authors: Mäenpää Pirkko , Andersson Bertil , Sundby Cecilia
Published: July 2002

Thylakoid vesicles containing photosystem II from either the appressed or non‐appressed thylakoid region were subjected to photoinhibitory illumination. Photosystem II from the non‐appressed region was found to be less sensitive to photoinhibition compared to photosystem II from the oppressed region under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
Crystallization of reaction center I of photosynthesis Low‐concentration crystallization of photoactive protein complexes from the cyanobacteriumSynechococcussp
Authors: Witt I. , Witt H.T. , Gerken S. , Saenger W. , Dekker J.P. , Rögner M.
Published: July 2002

The integral membrane protein complex of the photosystem I reaction center from the cyanobacteriumSynechococcussp. has been isolated and highly purified. At extremely low protein complex concentrations (50 μg/ml), crystallization occurred. The crystals are dichroic, photoactive and show an X‐ray powder diffraction pattern.
Size, shape and mass of the oxygen‐evolving photosystem II complex from the thermophilic cyanobacteriumSynechococcussp
Authors: Rögner M. , Dekker J.P. , Boekema E.J. , Witt H.T.
Published: July 2002

Two different, highly active O2‐evolving photosystem II complexes were purified from the cyanobacteriumSynechococcussp. in the presence of the non‐ionic detergent β‐dodecyl‐D‐maltoside. Both complexes are homogeneous and have molecular masses of approx. 300 and 500 kDa, respectively. By electron microscopy it was found that both complexes have the shape of an elliptical disk, with a thickness of about 6.5 nm and top view dimensions of 10.5 × 15.5 nm for the 300 kDa particle and 18.5 × 15 nm for the 500 kDa particle. It is concluded that the particles represent monomeric and dimeric forms of photosystem II.
Specific125I labeling of D1 (herbicide‐binding protein)
Authors: Ikeuchi M. , Inoue Y.
Published: July 2002

When125I−was given as an artificial electron donor to non‐O2‐evolving thylakoids of spinach, a 29 kDa polypeptide was specifically tagged by125I due to its photooxidation by PS II [(1985) Plant Cell Physiol. 26, 1093–1100]. We examined precisely the125I‐labeling pattern in comparison with azido[14C]atrazine photoaffinity labeling of D1 and immunoblotting with anti‐D1 and anti‐D2, and found that D1 (herbicidebinding protein) of PS II reaction center complex is specifically tagged by125I in three different species of higher plants (spinach, pea and wheat) and a thermophilic cyanobacterium (Synechococcus vulcanus). It was suggested that D1 bears the photooxidation site or has a domain very close to the photooxidation site on the donor side of PS II, in addition to the well established binding site for Qband herbicides on the acceptor side of PS II.
Inositol trisphosphatase and bisphosphatase activities in the retina of crab
Authors: Trowell Stephen C.
Published: July 2002

Inositol trisphosphate appears to be an excitatory second messenger in the transduction cascade of invertebrate visual photoreceptors. The high time‐resolution of visual transduction demands an efficient system for the removal of the second messenger. It is now demonstrated that soluble extracts of crab retina promote rapid magnesium‐dependent release of inorganic phosphate from D‐myo‐1,4,5,‐inositol trisphosphate. Experiments in which the inositol trisphosphate had been labelled with32P in the 4′ and 5′ positions indicated that both inositol trisphosphatase and bisphosphatase activities are present. The breakdown involves loss of at least one of the pair of vicinal phosphates, which is sufficient to inactivate the compound.
Influence of thylakoid protein phosphorylation on photosystem I photochemistry
Authors: Forti Giorgio , Vianelli Alberto
Published: July 2002

The influence of the phosphorylation of thylakoid proteins on photosystem I photochemistry has been measured under conditions of linear dependence of the rate of electron transport to NADP on light intensity. It was found that the phosphorylation by ATP of light harvesting chlorophyll protein complex (LHC) II and other polypeptides stimulates the rate up to ∼ 40%; the stimulation is larger when the wavelength of actinic light corresponds to the main absorption of LHC II.
Efficient photoinduced electron transfer from inorganic semiconductor TiO2to bacterial hydrogenase
Authors: Nikandrov V.V. , Shlyk M.A. , Zorin N.A. , Gogotov I.N. , Krasnovsky A.A.
Published: July 2002

Hydrogenase fromThiocapsa roseopersicinaadsorbed on TiO2particles, using electrons photogenerated in the conduction band of the semiconductor, in the presence of an organic electron donor, carries out hydrogen production with the rate comparable to that obtained with reduced methyl viologen as the substrate. Under conditions of the efficient hydrogenase adsorption on TiO2(1.6 mM CaCl2, 0.05 M Tris buffer, pH 7.2) the quantum efficiency of hydrogen photoproduction is up to 10%. Coupling of inorganic semiconductors with bacterial hydrogenase may be regarded as a way to the development of artificial photocatalytic systems of light energy conversion.
Interaction of 7‐acetyltaxol with different tubulin assemblies
Authors: Takoudju Martin , Wright Michel , Chenu Jacques , Guéritte-Voegelein Françoise , Guénard Daniel
Published: July 2002

Equilibrium microdialysis of [3PH]acetyltaxol against different tubulin assemblies showed that: (i) the binding capacity of tubulin does not depend on the temperature; (ii) two classes of ‘polymers’ exist, with respect to Ac‐taxol binding. Some of them (plaques, complex cylinders induced with some polycations and spirals made with rhazinilam) bound Ac‐taxol, as do normal microtubules. In contrast, spirals formed with vinblastine and griseofulvin, rings made with polycations and complex cylinders induced with spermine do not bind Ac‐taxol as is the case with free tubulin.
Enzymatic and immunological detection of a G‐protein inHalobacterium halobium
Authors: Schimz Angelika , Hinsch Klaus-Dieter , Hildebrand Eilo
Published: July 2002

In membrane preparations ofHalobacterium, the hydrolysis of cGMP is accelerated by activators of G‐proteins, namely GTP, GTP‐γ‐S, and fluoroaluminate. This suggests a type of G‐protein which acts on a phosphodiesterase. Light stimuli which evoke behavioral responses in intact bacteria influence the rate of cGMP hydrolysis. Using an antiserum raised against a peptide identical with one of the sequences presumably involved in GTP binding of most G‐proteins, a cross reactive protein with an apparent molecular mass of 59 kDa could be detected on immunoblots. The results support the idea that a G‐protein may be part of the photosensory transduction chain ofHalobacterium[(1987) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 923, 222–232].
Similarities between G‐proteins in visual cells ofSepiaand cattle
Authors: Stieve Hennig , Lumme Gisela
Published: July 2002

In contrast to antisera against native transducin a polyclonal antiserum raised against heat‐denatured bovine transducin crossreacts with the G‐protein fromSepiavisual cells. This antiserum recognizes a 44 kDa (Gα) and a 36 kDa (Gβ) protein band fromSepiaphotosensory membrane preparation. Furthermore we purified the antibody‐binding G‐protein fromSepiaby binding it to light‐activated rhodopsin ofSepiaand GTP‐induced extraction, similar to the purification of bovine transducin. This G‐protein is probably involved in the phototransduction process. The purifiedSepiaG‐protein did bind to vertebrate photosensoric membrane upon illumination, but was not eluted by GTP‐containing buffer solution. After extensive bleaching, the G‐protein became soluble.
Inhibitors of arachidonic acid lipoxygenase impair the stimulation of inositol phospholipid hydrolysis by the T lymphocyte mitogen phytohaemagglutinin
Authors: Mire-Sluis Anthony R. , Cox Cheryl A. , Hoffbrand A.Victor , Wickremasinghe R.Gitendra
Published: July 2002

Piriprost and nordihydroguiaretic acid (NDGA), specific inhibitors of arachidonate lipoxygenase, inhibited phytohaemagglutinin (PHA)‐stimulated breakdown of inositol lipids in human T lymphocytes. The dual inhibitors eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA) and BW 755C, which inhibit both lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, also had similar actions, whereas indomethacin and acetylsalicyclic acid, which inhibit cyclooxygenase alone, did not. The effects of lipoxygenase inhibitors and dual inhibitors were reversible. These agents did not inhibit phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate‐specific phospholipase C (PIP2‐PLC) in vitro. Bromophenacyl bromide, and irreversible inhibitor of phospholipase A2, also abolished PHA‐stimulated inositol lipid breakdown without affecting PIP2‐PLC in vitro. The results are consistent with a role for the PHA‐stimulated generation of arachidonic acid and its conversion to lipoxygenase metabolites (e.g. leukotrienes and/or hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids) as intermediate steps in the signal transduction pathway between cell‐surface mitogen receptors and the stimulation of PIP2‐PLC in lymphocytes.
Cloning and nucleotide sequence of cDNA for retinochrome, retinal photoisomerase from the squid retina
Authors: Hara-Nishimura Ikuko , Matsumoto Tetsunori , Mori Hitoshi , Nishimura Mikio , Hara Reiko , Hara Tomiyuki
Published: July 2002

TheRhodopsin‐retinochromesystem is essential for the visual photoreception of molluscs. cDNA coding for retinochrome of the squid (Todarodespacificus) was cloned and the nucleotide sequence has been determined. The sequence (2.1 kb) covers the whole coding region of 903 bp. The deduced primary sequence suggests that retinochrome contains seven transmembrane spanning domains. The homology with bovine rhodopsin and the possible retinal binding site are also discussed.
Calcium‐dependent nitric oxide synthesis in endothelial cytosol is mediated by calmodulin
Authors: Busse Rudi , Mülsch Alexander
Published: July 2002

We investigated whether calmodulin mediates the stimulating effect of Ca2+ on nitric oxide synthase in the cytosol of porcine aortic endothelial cells. Nitric oxide was quantified by activation of a purified soluble guanylate cyclase. The Ca2+‐sensitivity of nitric oxide synthase was lost after anion exchange chromatography of the endothelial cytosol and could only be reconstituted by addition of calmodulin or heat‐denatured endothelial cytosol. The Ca2+‐dependent activation of nitric oxide synthase in the cytosol was inhibited by the calmodulin‐binding peptides/proteins melittin, mastoparan, and calcineurin (IC50 450, 350 and 60 nM, respectively), but not by the calmodulin antagonist, calmidazolium. In contrast, Ca2+‐calmodulin‐reconstituted nitric oxide synthase was inhibited with similar potency by melittin and calmidazolium. The results suggest that the Ca2+‐dependent activation of nitric oxide synthase in endothelial cells is mediated by calmodulin.
Proton flow through the ATP synthase in chloroplasts regulates the distribution of light energy between PS I and PS II
Authors: Braun Gur , Evron Yoav , Malkin Shmuel , Avron Mordhay
Published: July 2002

The involvement of ATP synthase in the imbalance between the photoactivities of PS I and PS II under light‐limiting conditions, was examined in broken lettuce chloroplasts using modulated fluorimetry. The imbalance, in favor of PS II, was minimal and roughly constant between pH 6.5–7.3 (ratio of PS II/PS I activities about 1.1), and maximal at pH 8.5 (ratio of PS II/PS I activities about 1.4). This increase was strongly inhibited by a treatment of the chloroplasts with the CF0ATP synthase inhibitor DCCD, but unaffected by the CF1ATPase inhibitor, tentoxin. However, tentoxin plus ADP‐P, did inhibit the high pH‐induced increase imbalance. These results, when considered with the previous results on the effect of high pH on proton flux through the ATP synthase, suggest that the rate of such proton flow controls the imbalance between the two photosystems. It is possible that there is an in vivo fine‐tuning regulating mechanism of the photosystems imbalance via the opening and closing of proton gradient dissipation through the ATP synthase. This mechanism may help alleviate photoinhibitory damage.
The involvement of photosystem II‐generated H2O2in photoinhibition
Authors: Bradley Ryan L. , Long Krista M. , Frasch Wayne D.
Published: July 2002

The involvement of H2O2generated by photosystem II (PSII) in the process of photoinhibition of thylakoids with a functional oxygen‐evolving complex (OEC) was investigated. The rate of photoinhibition was decreased to the rate of loss of activity in the dark when bovine Fe‐catalase was present during the photoinhibitory illumination. Photoinhibition was accelerated for both Cl−‐depleted and Cl−‐sufficient thylakoids when KCN was present to inhibit the thylakoid‐bound Fe‐catalase. We propose that these preparations become photoinhibed by reactions with H2O2produced via oxidation of water by the Cl−‐depleted OEC and by reduction of O2at the QBsite when PSII is illuminated without an electron acceptor.
Effect of temperature on the kinetics of electron transfer from the tetraheme cytochrome to the primary donor in Rhodopseudomonas viridis
Authors: Ortega José María , Mathis Paul
Published: July 2002

The kinetics of electron transfer from the third highest potential heme (c‐522, E
m = +20 mV) to the primary donor (P‐960) have been measured by flash absorption spectroscopy in isolated reaction centers of Rhodopseudomonas viridis between 300 K and 7 K. The data are analyzed on the basis of three exponential components with a very fast phase (t½ = 120 ns) dominating at high temperature and a very slow one (t½ = 1.2 ms) at low temperature. This multiphasic behavior is interpreted in terms of the existence of three states with a temperature‐dependent population and a very limited effect of the temperature on the kinetics for each state.
Vitamin D is a membrane antioxidant Ability to inhibit iron‐dependent lipid peroxidation in liposomes compared to cholesterol, ergosterol and tamoxifen and relevance to anticancer action
Authors: Wiseman Helen
Published: July 2002

Vitamin D is a membrane antioxidant: thus Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and its active metabolite 1,25‐dihydroxycholecalciferol and also Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and 7‐dehydrocholesterol (pro‐Vitamin D3) all inhibited iron‐dependent liposomal lipid peroxidation. Cholecalciferol, 1,25‐dihydroxycholecalciferol and ergocalciferol were all of similar effectiveness as inhibitors of lipid peroxidation but were less effective than 7‐dehydrocholesterol; this was a better inhibitor of lipid peroxidation than cholesterol, though not ergosterol. The structural basis for the antioxidant ability of these Vitamin D compounds is considered in terms of their molecular relationship to cholesterol and ergosterol. Furthermore, the antioxidant ability of Vitamin D is compared to that of the anticancer drug tamoxifen and its 4‐hydroxy metabolite (structural mimics of cholesterol) and discussed in relation to the anticancer action of this vitamin.
Degradation of D2 protein due to UV‐B irradiation of the reaction centre of photosystem II
Authors: Friso G. , Barbato R. , Giacometti G.M. , Barber J.
Published: July 2002

Exposure of isolated reaction centres of photosystem II to UV‐B radiation generates specific breakdown products of the D2 protein. When the quinone, 2,5‐dibromo‐3‐methyl‐6‐isopropyl‐p‐benzoquinone is present a 22 kDa fragment containing the N‐terminus of the mature protein is generated. Concomitant with the appearance of the N‐terminal fragment, two fragments containing the C‐terminus of the D2 protein having apparent molecular masses around 10–12 kDa are observed. It is concluded that the primary cleavage occurs in the hydrophilic loop linking putative transmembrane segments IV and V. No such cleavage was observed when silicomolybdate was used as an electron acceptor, suggesting that this UV‐B damage is dependent on binding of the added quinone to the QAsite.
Lead alters structure and function of mouse flexor muscle
Authors: Al Dhaheri Amna H. , El‐Sabban Farouk F. , Fahim Mohamed A.
Published: July 2002

To evaluate the effect of long‐term exposure to heavy metals on skeletal muscle, chronic subcutaneous injections for 7 days of two level treatments (low dose, 0.1 mg/kg and high dose, 1 mg/kg) of lead acetate were investigated. Comparative analyses ofin situ dorsiflexormuscle isometric contractile characteristics were studied in urethane‐anesthetized (2 mg/g, i.p.) control and lead‐exposed male mice. Control muscle‐twitch tension reached an average of 1.81 ± 0.06 g. Chronic lead (Pb2+) treatments did not affect muscle contractile speed, but reduced significantly the twitch tension in both high and low doses when compared to control animals. This effect was in a dose‐dependent manner; 1.21 ± 0.07 g for low dose and 0.90 ± 0.05 g for high dose. These chronic Pb2+treatments accelerated muscle fatigue after 250 stimuli (25 Hz for 10 sec) in both the low and high doses equally. However, marked elevation in tetanic (25 Hz) specific tension were observed in the high‐dose, chronically treated animals, indicating some changes in contractile apparatus function. The high dose of chronic Pb2+treatment induced ultrastructural changes, including reduced number of synaptic vesicles, disruption of mitochondria and increased number of smooth endoplasmic reticulum and myelin‐like figures in the intramuscular axons and neuromuscular junctions. Chronic Pb2+treatment caused extensive disruption of the sarcoplasmic mitochondria and increased the number of myelin‐like figures in the muscle. These results suggest that exposure to Pb2+at a low concentration can compromise thein situskeletal muscle isometric contraction.
The clinical features of postpartum psychoses
Authors: Klompenhouwer JL , van Hulst AM , Tulen JHM , Jacobs ML , Jacobs BC , Segers F
Published: July 2002

The clinical features and symptoms of postpartum psychoses are presented in relation to the classification according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC) and the concept of “puerperal psychosis”. A number of symptoms,ieconfusional symptoms, depersonalization, misrecognitions and the “kaleidoscopic” picture are shown to be prominent features. In schizoaffective disorder and unspecified functional psychosis a higher frequency of confusional symptoms, misrecognitions, thematic delusions and a “kaleidoscopic” course of illness was found compared to schizophrenia, mania or depression. The findings of this study support a special status for postpartum psychosis and suggest a link with the concept of cycloid psychosis. In the management of postpartum mental disorder the risk of child-directed aggression, suicide and sudden relapses into psychosis requires special attention.
Molecular cloning of Drosophila γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase by functional complementation of a yeast mutant
Authors: Saunders Robert D.C. , McLellan Lesley I.
Published: July 2002

γ‐Glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCS) catalyses a critical, rate‐limiting step in glutathione synthesis. In this study we describe the isolation and characterisation of a GCS cDNA (pDmGCS4.3.3) from Drosophila melanogaster by functional complementation of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae gsh1 mutant. Expression of pDmGCS4.3.3 in the yeast mutant partially restored glutathione levels and conferred resistance to methylglyoxal. The pDmGCS4.3.3 cDNA was found to be approx. 4.6 kb in length, containing a 2 kb fragment encoding an open reading frame with a high degree of deduced amino acid sequence identity with previously reported GCS sequences. In situ hybridisation revealed that the Drosophila GCS gene maps to 7D6–9 on the X chromosome.
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptors of the EDG family are differentially activated by LPA species
Authors: Bandoh Koji , Aoki Junken , Taira Akitsu , Tsujimoto Masafumi , Arai Hiroyuki , Inoue Keizo
Published: July 2002

We examined the structure–activity relationship of cloned lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptors (endothelial cell differentiation gene (EDG) 2, EDG4, and EDG7) by measuring [Ca2+]i in Sf9 insect cells expressing each receptor using LPA with various acyl chains bound at either the sn‐1 or the sn‐2 position of the glycerol backbone. For EDG7 the highest reactivity was observed with LPA with Δ9‐unsaturated fatty acid (oleic (18:1), linoleic (18:2), and linolenic (18:3)) at sn‐2 followed by 2‐palmitoleoyl (16:1) and 2‐arachidonoyl (20:4) LPA. In contrast, EDG2 and EDG4 showed broad ligand specificities, although EDG2 and EDG4 discriminated between 14:0 (myristoyl) and 16:0 (palmitoyl), and 12:0 (lauroyl) and 14:0 LPAs, respectively. EDG7 recognizes the cis double bond at the Δ9 position of octadecanoyl residues, since 2‐elaidoyl (18:1, trans) and 2‐petroselinoyl (18:1, cis‐Δ12) LPA were poor ligands for EDG7. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that each LPA receptor can be activated differentially by the LPA species.