bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Conservation Farming Practices in Improving Sorghum Yield at Tanqua Abergelle Wereda, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Weleslasie Meresa , Assefa Guesh
Published: June 2020

Traditional farming, particularly tillage has long been used by farmers to loosen the soil, make a seed bed and control weed. However, it has been discovered that tillage operations, overtime, cause a decline in soil fertility and overall productivity resulting from deterioration of soil physical, chemical and biological properties. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of minimizing soil disturbance on sorghum yield. The research was conducted at Tanqua Abergelle Wereda in specific localization called Gereb Giba testing site. Six treatments replicated three times according to Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and plot size of 3.75 m x 4 m were used. The conservation farming practices used were basin and tie-ridger, one month earlier from its sowing date. Moreover, sorghum seeds were sown on nursery in the month of June, and was latter transplanted to field experiments. Agronomic data were collected for three consecutive years (2014 to 2016) and subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). The obtained result indicates that there was significant difference (0.05%) between treatments especially with comparison to conventional tillage. The highest grain yield (1.41 t/ha) was obtained in the treatment (Ripper + tie-ridger + transplanting), followed by basin + transplanting, Ripper + tie-ridger + inter-cropping, Ripper + tie-ridger and conventional tillage with 1.33 t/ha, 1.21 t/ha, 1.16 t/ha and 0.95 t/ha respectively and the lowest was obtained from basin 0.72 t/ha, due to sandy soils, i.e siltation affects at initial growth stage. Therefore, using tie-ridger and basin with transplanting are more important in low receiving and eratic type of rainfall, due to moisture stress prone areas and to increase grain yield. Though, practicing such kinds should be taken as compulsory issue particularly in dry land areas.
Diabetes, What is the Benefit in the Use of Medicinal Plants as an Optional form Adjuvant to Medicines?A Systematic Review
Authors: Souza Igor Domingos de , Reis Francisco José Mendes dos , Ramos Hugo Vieira , Ramos Eliza Miranda , Nascimento Valter Aragão do
Published: June 2020

Aims: To present a description of the benefits in the use of three plant models, in this case, Bauhinia forficata, Eleusine Indica and Orthosiphon stamineus Benth in the antidiabetic actions addressed through its mechanism of pharmacological and antioxidant action.

Methodology: In this study, the systematic review methods was used.

Results: The extracted studies totaled 146 randomized and experimental articles with rats and animals, at the end of the study extraction, only six covered all inclusion criteria and were used in the short review.

Conclusion: This systematic short review on the use of Bauhiana Forficata, Eleusine Indica and Orthosiphon Stamineus Benth verified the ability to reduce the hyperglycemia of these plants in association with drug treatment in diabetic patients and, thus, brings a promising answer by decreasing worsening and has protective enzymatic and antioxidant activities thus, it favors the reduction of hyperglycemia.
Preliminary Antidiabetic Potential of Ugandan- Matooke (Musa paradisiaca) Peels
Authors: Iwueke Adaku Vivien , Ejekwumadu Nnamdi John , Kiiza Roland , Kasozi Kenneth Iceland , Khambari Swafia
Published: June 2020

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycaemia over a prolonged period. In Uganda, unripe Musa paradisiaca (banana) is a staple food which is deskinned before cooking. In West Africa, however, the unpeeled banana is cooked for diabetics.

Aim: The objective of the study was to assess the hypoglycemic and body weight changes in experimental diabetic Wistar rats treated with green banana peel extracts.

Methodology: Out of the thirty-nine male rats used for the study, nine were used for the evaluation of possible oral acute toxicity. The remaining thirty were divided into six groups of 5 rats each. Experimental diabetes mellitus was induced by intravenous injection of alloxan (65 mg/kg body weight) the alloxan and treated with insulin, distilled water and graded doses of the extract (1000 mg/kg, 2000 mg/kg and 4000 mg/kg body weight) for two weeks.

The weight and blood glucose levels were measured before and after induction and prior to administration of treatment dosages. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 20. ANOVA and spearman’s rank correlation tests determined significant changes in values at 95% confidence interval.

Results: The rats showed no signs of toxicity nor death even at a dose of 10,000 mg/kg body weight. Phytochemical screening revealed saponins, tannins, phenols, flavonoids, cardiac glycoside, alkaloids, steroids and terpenoids. This study demonstrates that Musa paradisiaca peels significantly attenuated blood glucose levels (P < 0.005) and regulated body weights at doses (≥ 2000 mg/kg) which are essential parameters in the management of diabetes mellitus.

Conclusion: In line with the findings, unripe banana peels are anti-diabetic; unripe bananas therefore, should be cooked with the skins to derive its established anti-diabetic benefits.
Effected Irradiated Sewage Sludge and Compost on Jatropha Yield Production and Using 15Nitrogen
Authors: Moursy Ahmed A. , Ismail M. M.
Published: June 2020

Studies on irradiation of sewage sludge indicated its feasibility both economical and hygienically but work in this point is limited. Also the effect of non-irradiated and irradiated sewage sludge as a source of N on yield production and improvements fertility of sandy soil. In this research using the organic manure, the effects were increased soil fertility and crop yield. Aseeds yield production by Jatropha curcas L., these treatments can be arranged in the following descending order: T5> T6> T7> T4> T2> T3> T1. The best value of Ndff% recorded with rate 50% gamma irradiated sewage sludge + 50% ammonium sulphate fertilizer. Values of Ndfo % for 75.2%, 74.8% and 73.3% for (50% non-irradiated sewage sludge + 50% ammonium sulphate), (50% compost + 50% ammonium sulphate) and irradiated sewage sludge + 50% ammonium sulphate respectively. In general, the FUE% with 100% ammonium sulphate was ammonium sulphate alone lower than those recorded with ammonium sulphate plus none or irradiated sewage sludge and compost when T5, T7, T6 and T1 treatments were considered.
Prevalence of Rubella IgG Antibodies among Pregnant Women in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Okonko B. J. , Cookey T. I. , Okonko I. O. , Ogbu O.
Published: June 2020

Aim: Rubella virus is the cause of the communicable viral infection that can affect the foetus causing foetal loss or congenital rubella syndrome. Plasma samples from 180 pregnant women attending tertiary hospitals in River State, Nigeria were examined randomly to evaluate the prevalence of rubella virus (RubV) IgG antibodies.

Study Design:  Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital (BMSH) now Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) between September 2015 and August 2017.

Methods: The sample of this study was composed of 180 pregnant women. ELISA was used to detect the RubV IgG antibodies and prevalence was correlated with sociodemographic factors.

Results: The study result revered that 155(86.1%) were positive for RubV IgG while 25(13.9%) were negative for RubV IgG. Of the 90 samples examined from BMSH, 71(78.9%) were IgG-positive. From UPTH, 84(93.3%) were positive for RubV IgG. The highest (100%) seropositivity for RubV IgG was found in age groups 39-43 years.  No RubV IgG was recorded in age groups 44-48 years.  Women in their third trimester had the highest prevalence of RubV IgG antibodies (94.7%). Those with secondary education had the highest prevalence of RubV IgG (93.4%). Vaccinated pregnant women had the highest prevalence (87.4%). Among the variables evaluated, education (p=0.023), occupation (p=0.040), marital status (p=0.001) and vaccination history (p=0.005) were the main correlates in this study.

Conclusions: This study has shown evidence of immunity among expectant mothers in this study (86.1%) with 13.9% being vulnerable to rubella virus infection. Completion of adequate rubella vaccination along intensified surveillance of the vulnerable population remains the keystone for the control of congenital rubella syndrome in Nigeria.
A Review of the Role Micronutrient Status in the Elderly Plays in Their Immune Response to Viral Respiratory Infections and the Potential Compromising Effects Medications Might Cause
Authors: Wakeman Michael P.
Published: June 2020

The elderly are a growing proportion of the global population. They are more susceptible to non-communicable diseases and respiratory viral diseases like influenza and covid19, which may lead to increased levels of morbidity and mortality than those of a younger generation. It is also reported that co-morbidities, especially diabetes, hypertension and coronary heart disease contribute significantly to the prognosis with these types of infections. That the immune system operates in a less efficient way as an individual ages, is now well understood and likely contributes significantly to this situation. The role of certain micronutrients in maintaining a healthy immune system is well recognised and demonstrated to play an important role both in preventing and controlling infection. However, for a number of reasons many elderly individuals have a less than optimal intake of many of the micronutrients that support the immune system. This review examines the contributory roles an aging immune system, suboptimal intake of micronutrients, comorbidities and the impact of the intake of medications typically used to treat them can play in the outcome of viral respiratory infections. It identifies the need for supplementation, especially in the elderly to support the immune system.
Hybrid Lesion of Ameloblastoma and Adenomatoid Odontogenic Tumour (AOT): Report of Two Cases from a Tertiary Referral Hospital in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Adesina Olufunlola Motunrayo , Fatusi Olawunmi Adedoyin , Braimah Ramat Oyebunmi , Adejobi Francis Adewale
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Hybrid lesions are lesions showing the combined histopathological characteristics of two or more previously recognized odontogenic tumours and /cysts of different categories. Hybrid lesions do exist because of close interrelationship of several odontogenic lesions and also because odontogenic tumors and cysts can arise at any stage of odontogenesis. The objective of this study was to present 2 cases of hybrid odontogenic tumour that is composed of adenomatoid odontogenic tumour (AOT) and ameloblastoma.

Case Reports:

Case 1: A 33year old female patient with a bucco-lingual swelling in the left mandibular premolar-molar-ramus regions of 13years duration. The lesion measured about 15x5x3cm, it is non tender. Surgical specimen revealed hybrid lesion of granular cell type ameloblastoma and AOT.

Case 2: An 18year old female patient with a painless right mandibular molar-ramus swelling of 10years duration. Mandibulectomy specimen measured about 11 cm x 8.5 cm x 5 cm and was found to be hybrid lesion of acanthomatous ameloblastoma and AOT.

Conclusion: Both cases had a very long clinical duration and showed more buccal bone expansion with barely noticeable lingual bone expansion. With such clinical scenarios, a suspicion of hybrid tumour should be made.
Wind Energy toward Electric Current Generation in Borno State, Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed Umar M. , Muhammad Ja’afar
Published: June 2020

This research focused on evaluating the prospect of wind energy for electric power generation in Borno State, Nigeria was carried out. Sixteen years of monthly mean wind data at 10 m height of anemometer from the ministry of aviation Maiduguri (Maiduguri meteorological center) Nigeria were assessed and snubbed to Weibull two parameter and Rayleigh model of probability distribution. It was found that its monthly and annual variation recorded for the maximum speed were 6.97 m/s in 1997 and 5.23 m/s in 2001 respectively and the minimum wind speed was 1.00m/s and occur in the year 2012. The maximum mean wind speed occurs in March, June, July and August while the minimum value occurs in September. Maiduguri is a potential wind farm area; the moderate wind falls within the consistent values for wind power generation to operate wind turbine for electric power conversion. The study also displays that Maiduguri has annual power density approximately to power class (2) which is 87.98 W/m2 showing that it is perfect for grid connection and application.
The Way You Perceive Your Body Matters: Interventions Aimed to Reduce Body Dissatisfaction
Authors: Herceg Lucijana , Clark Mitchell
Published: June 2020

Aims: To determine if brief interventions of cognitive dissonance, media literacy, and a mindful body scan can reduce body dissatisfaction among female undergraduate students and whether mindfulness, emotion regulation, positive and negative affect, and media literacy levels have an impact on body appreciation.

Study Design: The present study used an experimental design and included three intervention groups and an active control group.

Place and Duration of Study: Centre for Psychological Innovation at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta, Canada from January 17th to March 6th, 2020.

Methodology: 78 female participants between the ages of 17 to 49 years with a mean age of 21 years (SD = 5.16). All participants underwent a body dissatisfaction induction procedure and completed self-report questionnaires on body satisfaction (using the Body Appreciation Scale), mindfulness (using the Five Facet Mindfulness Scale), emotion regulation (using the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation), positive and negative affect (using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule), and media literacy (using the Critically Thinking About Media Messages, Media Attitudes Questionnaire, and the Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire).

Results: Three separate multiple linear regression tests revealed that there were differences in the variables predicting body appreciation scores at Time1, F(7, 70) = 12.09, p < .001, Time 2, F(7, 70) = 14.74,  p< .001, and Time3, F(7, 70) = 15.07, p < .001. A one-way ANOVA revealed that body appreciation scores increased for all four conditions after completion of the intervention, F(1, 76) = .069, p = .793 but not after the body dissatisfaction induction procedure or before the intervention.

Conclusion: These findings confirm that negative affect and low levels of media literacy contribute to feelings of body dissatisfaction and that brief periods of steering the mind away from the body lead to increases in body appreciation.
Mangifera indica (Mango) Bark Therapy Potentiates Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Ajani Rotimi Sunday , Olateju Opeyemi Jeremiah
Published: June 2020

Objective: One of the debilitating complications of diabetes mellitus is chronic foot ulcer. Mangifera indica (Mango) is a naturally occurring and widely cultivated plant with many health benefits attributable to its parts. The wound healing potential of its bark in adult diabetic rats was investigated.

Methods: The excised wounds of diabetic adult female wistar rats in groups of six were dressed with mango bark powder (MPD), mango bark ethanolic extract (MED), sofratulle (SD) and normal saline (ND) daily till healed. The corresponding control groups were MPC, MEC, SC and NC respectively. Every three days, the mean wound contraction rates were calculated from the measured wound areas. Granulation tissue was biopsied from an animal per group on day 3, 6 and 9 for histopathological evaluation and after healing, the scars of the remaining animals were biopsied for histology.

Results: The M. indica bark powder contained greater quantity of coumarins than the ethanolic extract; with terpenoids and steroids detected only in the powder. The MPD group had the highest mean wound contraction rates for the specified period. The mean wound contraction rates for the MPC group were significantly higher than those of the MED. The granulation tissues of the MPD and MPC groups had similar microscopic features to those of MEC, MED, SC, SD, NC and ND. Microscopy of the wound scars showed stratified squamous epithelia with abundant collagen fibres and blood vessels with dermal appendages seen in some of the groups.

Conclusion: Findings from this study showed that the M. indica bark.
Examination of Bacterial Pathogens an in Intensive Care Unit of a Military Hospital in Alkharj
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J.
Published: June 2020

Aim: The present study was undertaken to identify the most common infectious agents for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients in a military hospital in Alkharj – Saudi Arabia.

Methodology: This study was conducted in a military hospital in Alkharj – Saudi Arabia. Identification of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria was performed with standard microbiological methods.

The isolates that are collected from ICU from blood, urine and other samples in the year 2019 are included.

Results: Out of 992 bacterial isolates only 6.15% were collected from ICU. The majority of the bacteria that were found in the ICU were Gram-positive bacteria. The most common bacteria that were found in ICU were Staphylococcus aureus followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli.

Conclusion: We found differences in the prevalence of bacteria in the ICU compared to other studies. The predominant bacteria in ICU were Staphylococcus aureus. The present data could help physicians to know the causative organisms and to administer the most suitable antibiotics for treatment of nosocomial infections in Alkharj area after knowing the susceptibility rate of bacteria to different antibiotics.
Prevalence of Bacterial Pathogens Isolated in 2018 from Patients in a Military Hospital
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J.
Published: June 2020

Aim: The aim of the present study was to describe the prevalence of bacterial pathogens isolated from patients in a military hospital in Alkharj.

Methodology: This was a retrospective study conducted to describe the prevalence of bacterial pathogens in 2018. Clinical culture results were collected from laboratory in a military hospital from 01-01-2018 to31-12-2018.

Results: The most common bacteria were Escherichia coli bacteria followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Gram negative bacteria were collected mainly by urine culture while gram positive bacteria were collected mainly from wound/pus/skin cultures.

Conclusion: In general, from this study it can be concluded that the rate of bacterial infections is high. It is important to follow the healthcare professional recommendations such as hand washing and other measures to prevent the occurrence of infections. Moreover, health care professional should know the causative bacteria to give the appropriate treatment.
Corneal Endothelium an Important Layer for Corneal Transparency and Its Assessment– a Review
Authors: Pateras E.
Published: June 2020

This current study aimed to review the importance and assessment of corneal endothelium in terms of corneal transparency. The study revealed that the normal metabolic activity is necessary to maintain the temperature of the cornea, to renew its cells, to support the exchange processes of nutrients and to maintain its transparency. The endothelium is the inner layer of the cornea. The main function of the endothelium is to remove fluid from the corneal stroma, thus allowing the cornea to remain transparent. Younger patients recover relatively more easily after endothelial injury because they have a larger number of endothelial cells compared to older patients. Knowledge of the number and condition of endothelial cells are crucial for a number of decisions that the ophthalmic surgeon is called upon to make usually before surgery and Endothelial assessment health is a criterion for choosing a surgical method.
Is Oil Rent a Curse for Health in Africa?
Authors: Martial Lepatouo Ngouffo
Published: June 2020

Aims/ Objectives: To determine whether oil rent is a curse for the health of populations in Africa.Study Design: Cross-sectional study.Place and Duration of Study: Oil-producing African countries over the period 2000-2015.Methodology: Using the Random effects (RE) and the Two Stages Least Square (2SLS) estimators on a sample of 18 Oil-producing African countries.Results: The results show that oil rent has a negative effect on life expentancy.Conclusion: The fact that oil-producing African countries have a source of revenue that does not depend on taxation, means that the governments of these countries do not make health an important part of public policy.
Environmental pollutant Cd2+ biphasically and differentially regulates myosin light chain kinase and phospholipid/Ca2+‐dependent protein kinase
Authors: Mazzei Gonzalo J. , Girard Peggy R. , Kuo J.F.
Published: July 2002

Cd2+ was found to mimic effectively, potentiate and antagonize the stimulatory action of Ca2+ on myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and phospholipid‐sensitive Ca2+‐dependent protein kinase (PL‐Ca‐PK, or protein kinase C). PL‐Ca‐PK, however, was slightly less sensitive to Cd2+ regulation than was MLCK. Cd2+ also biphasically regulates (i.e., stimulation followed by inhibition) phosphorylation, in the homogenates of the rat caudal artery, of myosin light chain and other endogenous proteins catalyzed by MLCK and PL‐Ca‐PK. The activation by Cd2+ of MLCK was inhibited by anticalmodulins (e.g., R‐24571), whereas the inhibition by a higher Cd2+ concentration of MLCK and PL‐Ca‐PK was reversed by thiol agents (e.g., cysteine). The present findings may provide one mechanism underlying the vascular toxicity of Cd2+, a major environmental pollutant.
C‐terminal amino acid determination of the transmembrane subunits of the human platelet fibrinogen receptor, the GPIIb/IIIa complex
Authors: Calvete J.J. , Schäfer W. , Henscher A. , Gonzalez-Rodriguez J.
Published: July 2002

Glycoproteins IIb (GPIIb) and IIIa (GPIIIa) form the Ca2+ ‐dependent GPIIb/IIIa complex, which acts as the fibrinogen receptor on activated platelets. GPIIb and GPIIIa are synthesized as single peptide chains. The GPIIb precursor is processed proteolytically to yield two disulphide‐bonded chains, GPIIba and GPIIbß. The GPIIb/IIIa complex has two membrane attachment sites located at the C‐tennini ofGPIIß and GPIIIa. The short cytoplasmic tails of GPIIbß and/or GPIIIa become most likely associated to the cytoskeleton of activated platelets. In the present work the C‐tenninal amino acid residues of platelet GPIIbß and GPIIIa have been analyzed by protein‐chemical methods and compared with those predicted from cDNA analysis. We were able to confirm the positions of the C‐tennini in both glycoproteins and the identity of the C‐tenninus predicted for GPIIIa, i.e. threonine. However, glutamine, not glutamic acid as predicted for GPIIbß from the human erythroleukemic cell line and megakaryocyte cells, was found to be the C‐terminal amino acid of GPIIß. This indicates that the glutamic arid in the GPIIb precursor is posttranslationally modified to glutamine.
Stimulation of indole‐3‐acetic acid production in Rhizobium by flavonoids
Authors: Prinsen Els , Chauvaux Nancy , Schmidt Jürgen , John Michael , Wieneke Ursula , De Greef Jan , Schell Jeff , Van Onckelen Henri
Published: July 2002

Flavonoids activate nod gene expression in Rhizobium resulting in the synthesis of Nod signals which trigger organogenesis in the host plant. This paper shows that nod‐inducers also stimulate the production of the phytohormone IAA (indole‐3‐acetic acid).
In‐vitro matured human macrophages express Alzheimer's βA4‐amyloid precursor protein indicating synthesis in microglial cells
Authors: Bauer Joachim , König Gerhard , Strauss Sylvia , Jonas Uwe , Ganter Ursula , Weidemann Andreas , Mönning Ursula , Masters Colin L. , Volk Benedikt , Berger Mathias , Beyreuther Konrad
Published: July 2002

Microglia which are consistently associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) senile plaques are part of the mononuclear phagocyte system. In‐vitro matured human monocyte‐derived macrophages feature many immunological characteristics of microglia. We found strong constitutive expression of Alheimer's βA4‐amyloid precursor protein (APP) in human mononuclear phagocytes after terminal in‐vitro maturation from monocytes to macrophages. Amyloid has previously been found to be associated with microglia in AD brains, however, it remained unclear whether the material was synthesized in or had been phagocytosed by the cells. The findings presented here support the assumption that brain microglia may contribute to APP synthesis in AD brain.
Human Zn‐α2‐glycoprotein cDNA cloning and expression analysis in benign and malignant breast tissues
Authors: Freije José P. , Fueyo Antonio , Uría José , López-Otin Carlos
Published: July 2002

Two cDNA clones coding Zn‐α2‐glycoprotein (Zn‐α2‐gp) have been isolated from a human breast library and their nucleotide sequences determined. The deduced amino acid sequence contains the coding information for a hydrophobic signal peptide and the 278 residues of the mature proteine. Comparison of this sequence with that from the protein puriried from plasma reveals four differences: two amino acid changes (Gln‐67 and Glu‐222) and insertion of two residues (Ile‐75 and Phe‐76). Northern‐blot analysis showed that the Zn‐α2‐gp gene is expressed in liver and normal breast, but not in placenta, ovary and thyroid. A comparative analysis in mammary tissues from women with different diseases revealed enhanced expression of Zn‐α2‐gp gene in benign breast lesions and a variable expression level in breast cancers.
Ubiquitin of Entamoeba histolytica deviates in six amino acid residues from the consensus of all other known ubiquitins
Authors: Wöstmann Claudia , Tannich Egbert , Bakker-Grunwald Tilly
Published: July 2002

The amino acid sequence of ubiquitin from Entamoeba histolytica, as deduced from a cDNA nucleotide sequence, deviated a six positions from the consensus of all other known ubiquitins (ranging from Trypanosoma cruzi to Homo sapiens). The corresponding residues were scattered over the primary sequence, but came close together on the surface of the folded protein structure. We conclude that (i) E. histolytica branched off very early from the main eukaryotic line, and (ii) this organism may yield clues as to the evolutionary development of the ubiquitin system.
Genes of variola and vaccinia viruses necessary to overcome the host protective mechanisms
Authors: Shchelkunov Sergei N. , Blinov Vladimir M. , Sandakhchiev Lev S.
Published: July 2002

Analysis of variola virus nucleotide sequence revealed proteins belonging to several families which provide the virus with the possibility of overcoming the barriers of specific and non‐specific host defence against viral infection. The complement‐binding proteins, lymphokine‐binding proteins, and serine protease inhibitors can be assigned to this type, as can the proteins providing the orthopoxviruses with resistance to interferon. The revealed differences between the genes (proteins) of variola and vaccinia viruses under study are discussed.
An alternatively spliced variant of mRNA for the human receptor for urokinase plasminogen activator
Authors: Pyke C. , Eriksen J. , Solberg H. , Nielsen B.Schnack , Kristensen P. , Lund L.R. , Dano K.
Published: July 2002

Using 3′ RACE (rapid amplification of cDNA ends), we have isolated a cDNA variant for the receptor for human urokinase plasminogen activator (uPAR). The deduced protein includes the amino‐terminal ligand binding domain in uPAR, but lacks the carboxy‐terminal membrane attachment by a glycolipid anchor. Genomic DNA analysis showed that the uPAR mRNA variant is generated by alternative splicing. The new variant mRNA is expressed in various human cell lines and tissues and both variants are up‐regulated by phorbol ester in A549 cells. We propose that the alternatively spliced uPAR mRNA encodes a soluble uPA binding protein, the possible function of which is discussed.
The primary structure of cytochrome P460 of Nitrosomonas europaea: Presence of a c‐heme binding motif
Authors: Bergmann David J. , Hooper Alan B.
Published: July 2002

Cytochrome P460 and hydroxyamine oxidoreductase of Nitrosomonas europaea both catalyze the oxidation of hydroxylamine and contain a 460 nm‐absorbing chromophore. The gene (cyp) encoding cytochrome P460 was cloned and sequenced. The predicted amino acid sequence contains a single c‐heme binding motif (CXXCH) near the carboxy‐terminus. Cytochrome P460 shows little sequence homology to other c‐cytochromes including hydroxyamine oxidoreductase. The presence of a signal peptide and a possible c‐heme binding site suggest that the cytochrome P460 of N. europaea is periplasmic.
The flavohaemoglobin (HMP) of Escherichia coli generates superoxide in vitro and causes oxidative stress in vivo
Authors: Membrillo-Hernández Jorge , Ioannidis Nicolaos , Poole Robert K.
Published: July 2002

Purified flavohaemoglobin (HMP) of Escherichia coli reduces Fe(III) in a superoxide dismuatase (SOD)‐sensitive reaction, demonstrating superoxide anion generation during aerobic NADH oxidation. In vivo, sodA‐lacZ fusion activity was increased 3‐fold by introducing plasmid pPL341, containing the hmp gene, or by growth with paraquat. The effects were additive and SOXS‐dependent. Thus HMP activity causes oxidative stress in vivo. Activities of sodA‐lacZ and hmp‐lacZ fusions were stimulated in a himA mutant, demonstrating repression of both promoters by integration host factor (IHF), but the effects of pPL341 on sodA‐lacZ activity were not due to titration of IHF by the hmp promoter.
Increase in ADP‐ribosyltransferase activity of rat T lymphocyte alloantigen RT6.1 by a single amino acid mutation
Authors: Maehama Tomohiko , Hoshino Shin-ichi , Katada Toshiaki
Published: July 2002

A family of glycosylphosphatidylinositol‐linked ADP‐ribosyltransferases, of which cDNAs were cloned from various mammalian cells, possess a common Glu‐rich motif (EEEVLIP) near their carboxyl termini. Although the first Glu in the common motif is replaced by Gln (Q207EEVLIP) in rat T lymphocyte alloantigens RT6.1 and RT6.2, the two RT6s appear to have both activities of NAD+ glycohydrolase and ADP‐ribosyltransferase to a lesser extent. To investigate the significance of the Glu‐rich motif in the two enzyme activities, we produced a mutant RT6.1 (Q207E), in which Gln207 was replaced by Glu, together with wild‐type RT6s, in Escherichia coli. Kinetic analysis revealed that there were no marked differences in the V
max and K
m values of NAD+ glycohydrolases among the three recombinant proteins. The recombinant RT6.1 and RT6.2 displayed extremely low auto‐ADP‐ribosylation, although the latter modification was somewhat higher than the former. In contrast, much greater auto‐modification was observed for the Q207E mutant. Moreover, the mutant could effectively ADP‐ribosylate agmatine as a substrate. Thus, the single amino acid mutation of RT6.1 caused a marked increase in its ADP‐ribosyltransferase activity, indicating that the Glu‐rich motif near the carboxy terminus plays an important role in the enzyme activity.
Defect in modification at the anticodon wobble nucleotide of mitochondrial tRNALys with the MERRF encephalomyopathy pathogenic mutation
Authors: Yasukawa Takehiro , Suzuki Tsutomu , Ishii Norie , Ueda Takuya , Ohta Shigeo , Watanabe Kimitsuna
Published: July 2002

A mitochondrial tRNALys gene mutation at nucleotide position 8344 is responsible for the myoclonus epilepsy associated with ragged‐red fibers (MERRF) subgroup of mitochondrial encephalomyopathies. Here, we show that normally modified uridine at the anticodon wobble position remains unmodified in the purified mutant tRNALys. We have reported a similar modification defect at the same position in two mutant mitochondrial tRNAsLeu(UUR) in another subgroup, mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke‐like episodes (MELAS), indicating this defect is common in the two kinds of tRNA molecules with the respective mutations of the two major mitochondrial encephalomyopathies. We therefore suggest the defect in the anticodon is responsible, through the translational process, for the pathogenesis of mitochondrial diseases.
Dual regulation of the T‐type Ca2+ current by serum albumin and β‐estradiol in mammalian spermatogenic cells
Authors: Espinosa Felipe , López-González Ignacio , Muñoz-Garay Carlos , Felix Ricardo , De la Vega-Beltrán Jose L. , Kopf Gregory S. , Visconti Pablo E. , Darszon Alberto
Published: July 2002

This study provides evidence for a novel mechanism of voltage‐gated Ca2+ channel regulation in mammalian spermatogenic cells by two agents that affect sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction (AR). Patch‐clamp experiments demonstrated that serum albumin induced an increase in Ca2+ T current density in a concentration‐dependent manner, and significant shifts in the voltage dependence of both steady‐state activation and inactivation of the channels. These actions were not related to the ability of albumin to remove cholesterol from the membrane. In contrast, β‐estradiol significantly inhibited Ca2+ channel activity in a concentration‐dependent and essentially voltage‐independent fashion. In mature sperm this dual regulation may influence capacitation and/or the AR.
A new diagnostic tool for neurocysticercosis is a member of a cestode specific hydrophobic ligand binding protein family1
Authors: Saghir Nahid , Conde Phillip J. , Brophy Peter M. , Barrett John
Published: July 2002

A protein of unknown function has been identified as a key serological tool for diagnosis of human tapeworm neurocysticercosis, a major worldwide neurological disease. Our own sequence analysis predicts that this protein is a member of a newly identified cestode specific oligomeric hydrophobic ligand binding protein family. In this report, using a rat cestode model, we confirm that homologues of this protein can bind fatty acids and their derivatives, and thus suggest a biological function for this key diagnostic tool.
CREB is cleaved by caspases during neural cell apoptosis
Authors: François Fleur , Godinho Maria J , Grimes Mark L
Published: July 2002

Programmed cell death, or apoptosis, is a tightly regulated process mediated by selective cleavage of proteins by caspases, resulting in ordered destruction of the cell. In addition to structural proteins, proteins that mediate anti‐apoptotic signal transduction are also substrates; their destruction eliminates potential futile attempts to escape execution. We asked whether cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), a transcription factor that mediates nerve growth factor (NGF) survival signals, is a target for caspases during apoptosis. CREB was specifically cleaved by caspases in neuroblastoma extracts, and in cells induced to undergo apoptosis by staurosporine. The destruction of CREB eliminates a key factor that could reverse apoptosis.
Amyloid fibril formation by a helical cytochrome
Authors: Pertinhez Thelma A. , Bouchard Mario , Tomlinson Esther J. , Wain Rachel , Ferguson Stuart J. , Dobson Christopher M. , Smith Lorna J.
Published: July 2002

The substitution of alanines for the two cysteines which form thioether linkages to the haem group in cytochrome c
552 from Hydogenobacter thermophilus destabilises the native protein fold. The holo form of this variant slowly converts into a partially folded apo state that over prolonged periods of time aggregates into fibrillar structures. Characterisation of these structures by electron microscopy and thioflavin‐T binding assays shows that they are amyloid fibrils. The data demonstrate that when the native state of this cytochrome is destabilised by loss of haem, even this highly α‐helical protein can form β‐sheet structures of the type most commonly associated with protein deposition diseases.
A novel approach for purification of recombinant proteins using the dextran‐binding domain
Authors: Kaseda Kuniyoshi , Kodama Takao , Fukui Kazuhiro , Hirose Keiko
Published: July 2002

Using the dextran‐binding domain (DBD) of a type of glucosyltransferase (GTF) from Streptococcus sobrinus, we have developed a novel method for purifying recombinant proteins. DBD‐tagged green and red fluorescent proteins as well as the parent GTF and DBD moiety were adsorbed well to commercially available cross‐linked dextran (such as Sephadex beads and Sephacryl beads), and eluted efficiently with water‐soluble dextran. The purity of the eluted proteins after this one‐step affinity purification was ∼90% or better. The results suggest that DBD can be used as a powerful carrier for purification of various recombinant proteins.
Identification of the secretory vesicle membrane binding region of chromogranin B1
Authors: Yoo Seung Hyun , Kang Yong Koo
Published: July 2002

In the past a synthetic peptide representing the conserved near N‐terminal region of chromogranin B (CGB) (residues 17–36) has been shown to interact with the vesicle membrane. Hence, it was necessary to confirm this observation with CGB deletion proteins. In order to address this need and to confirm the published sequence of CGB, we cloned a CGB gene and produced various CGB deletion proteins. The recombinant CGB protein lacking the first 15 (rCGB 16–626) or 16 amino acid residues (rCGB 17–626) bound to the vesicle membrane as well as the full‐length CGB. However, rCGB 49–626, lacking the conserved near N‐terminal region, failed to interact with the vesicle membrane, indicating an anchor role for the conserved near the N‐terminal region.
Ligand‐binding specificity of human fibroblast growth factor receptor‐3 IIIc
Authors: Lin Hsien-Yi , Kaplow June , Jaye Michael , Hayman Michael J.
Published: July 2002

Earlier studies indicated that human fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)‐3 IIIc was activated equally well by both FGF‐1 and FGF‐2. In contrast, murine FGFR‐3 IIIc was preferentially activated by FGF‐1. To address this issue, we determined the ligand‐binding specificity of human FGFR‐3 IIIc in comparison with human FGFR‐1 IIIc. By equilibrium binding human FGFR‐3 IIIc preferentially bound FGF‐1 with high affinity, whereas FGFR‐1 IIIc bound both FGF‐1 and ‐2 with high affinity. By competition binding using FGF‐1, ‐2, ‐4, or ‐6, FGF‐1 competed more efficiently than the other FGFs. These results suggest that like the murine FGFR‐3 III, FGF‐1 is a preferred ligand for human FGFR‐3 IIIc.
Doxorubicin‐induced apoptosis in human T‐cell leukemia is mediated by caspase‐3 activation in a Fas‐independent way
Authors: Gamen Susana , Anel Alberto , Lasierra Pilar , Alava Marı́a A , Martinez-Lorenzo Maria José , Piñeiro Andrés , Naval Javier
Published: July 2002

It has recently been proposed that doxorubicin (DOX) can induce apoptosis in human T‐leukemia cells via the Fas/FasL system in an autocrine/paracrine way. We show here that treatment of Jurkat cells with either anti‐Fas antibodies, anthracyclin drugs or actinomycin D induces the activation of CPP32 (caspase‐3) and apoptosis. However, DOX treatment did not induce the expression of membrane FasL or the release of soluble FasL and co‐incubation with blocking anti‐Fas antibodies prevented Fas‐induced but not DOX‐induced apoptosis. All the morphological and biochemical signs of apoptosis induced by anti‐Fas or DOX can be prevented by Z‐VAD‐fmk, a general caspase inhibitor. DEVD‐cho, a specific inhibitor of CPP32‐like caspases which completely blocks Fas‐mediated apoptosis, prevented drug‐induced nuclear apoptosis but not cell death. We conclude that: (i) DOX‐induced apoptosis in human T‐leukemia/lymphoma is Fas‐independent and (ii) caspase‐3 is responsible of DOX‐induced nuclear apoptosis but other Z‐VAD‐sensitive caspases are implicated in cell death.
Increased cellular resistance to oxidative stress by expression of cyanobacterium catalase‐peroxidase in animal cells
Authors: Ishikawa Takahiro , Ohta Yuriko , Takeda Toru , Shigeoka Shigeru , Nishikimi Morimitsu
Published: July 2002

To exploit prokaryotic antioxidant enzymes for protection of animal cells from oxidative damage, we expressed catalase‐peroxidase of cyanobacterium Synechococcus PCC 7942 in 104C1 cells. The gene for this enzyme was inserted into the mammalian expression vector pRc/CMV. The stable transfectants obtained had higher specific activities of catalase and as a result became more resistant to H2O2 or paraquat than the parental cells. Subcellular fractionation and immunoblot analysis revealed that the expressed catalase‐peroxidase was confined to the cytosol; this localization may be the basis for the effective protection of the transfectants from the oxidative cell damage.
Sodium butyrate suppresses apoptosis in human Burkitt lymphomas and murine plasmacytomas bearing c‐myc translocations
Authors: Alexandrov Ivan , Romanova Larisa , Mushinski Frederick , Nordan Richard
Published: July 2002

We report that sodium butyrate, a natural product of fiber degradation by colonic bacteria, markedly suppresses c‐Myc‐mediated apoptosis induced in murine plasmacytomas and human Burkitt lymphomas by growth factor deprivation, but not in cell lines devoid of c‐myc translocations. Attenuation of cell death is associated with downregulation of the rearranged c‐myc and activation of pRb via its dephosphorylation. We suggest that in vivo sodium butyrate may play an important role in plasmacytomagenesis by supporting the survival of cells with c‐myc translocations, which otherwise would be eliminated by the lack of growth factors.
Functional consequences of a domain 1/S6 segment sodium channel mutation associated with painful congenital myotonia
Authors: Wang Dao W , VanDeCarr Dorothy , Ruben Peter C , George Alfred L , Bennett Paul B
Published: July 2002

An unusual form of painful congenital myotonia is associated with a novel SCN4A mutation causing a valine to methionine substitution in the domain 1/S6 segment of the skeletal muscle sodium channel. We studied the functional characteristics of this mutant allele using a recombinant channel to gain understanding about the nature of the biophysical defect responsible for this unique phenotype. When expressed heterologously in a cultured mammalian cell line (tsA201), the mutant channel exhibits subtle defects in its gating properties similar, but not identical, to other myotonia‐producing sodium channel mutations. The main abnormalities are the presence of a small non‐inactivating current that occurs during short test depolarizations, a shift in the voltage‐dependence of channel activation to more negative potentials, and a slowing of the time course of recovery from inactivation. Flecainide, a potent sodium channel blocker previously reported to benefit patients affected by this form of myotonia, effectively inhibits the abnormal sodium current associated with expression of the mutant channel. Our findings demonstrate the unique pattern of sodium channel dysfunction associated with a D1/S6 myotonia‐producing sodium channel mutation, and provide a mechanism for the beneficial effects of flecainide in this setting.
The origin of cecropins; implications from synthetic peptides derived from ribosomal protein L1
Authors: Pütsep Katrin , Normark Staffan , Boman Hans G.
Published: July 2002

We recently showed that Helicobacter pylori grown on plates produce cecropin‐like antibacterial peptides to which H. pylori is resistant. This antibacterial activity was traced to fragments from the N‐terminus of ribosomal protein L1 (Pütsep et al., Nature, April 22, 1999). The evolutionary suggestion from this finding has now been extended by the synthesis of eight peptides with sequences taken from the N‐terminus of ribosomal protein L1 (RpL1) of five different species. Two peptides of different length derived from H. pylori RpL1 showed a potent antibacterial activity, while a peptide with the sequence from Escherichia coli was 20 times less active. Like cecropins the H. pylori peptides were not cytolytic. We suggest that the cecropins have evolved from ribosomal protein L1 of an ancestral intracellular pathogen that developed to a symbiont ending as an organelle. When the R1 gene moved into the host nucleus, a duplication provided a copy from which today cecropins could have evolved.
Fibre type specificity of haem oxygenase‐1 induction in rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Vesely M.J.J. , Sanders R. , Green C.J. , Motterlini R.
Published: July 2002

The expression of the inducible haem oxygenase (HO‐1) gene was examined in different skeletal muscles. Rats were treated with haemin and a time course of HO‐1 mRNA expression was determined in soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles. Fibre type composition and tissue myoglobin content were also measured. We found that HO‐1 mRNA expression markedly increased in soleus (type I fibres) muscle but was only slightly affected in EDL (type II fibres). HO‐1 expression directly correlated with both percentage of red fibres and tissue myoglobin. These data demonstrate that HO‐1 gene expression follows a fibre type‐specific pattern which might indicate an important role for this protein in the maintenance of skeletal muscle function.
The possible mechanism of synergistic effects of ethanol, zinc and insulin on DNA synthesis in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts
Authors: She Qing-Bai , Huang Jin-Sheng , Mukherjee Jagat J , Crilly Karan S , Kiss Zoltan
Published: July 2002

In serum‐starved NIH 3T3 fibroblast cultures, zinc (15–40 μM) enhanced both the individual and combined stimulatory effects of insulin and ethanol (EtOH) on DNA synthesis. Zinc, but not EtOH, also promoted the stimulatory effects of insulin on activating phosphorylation of p42/p44 mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinases. In the presence of zinc, insulin induced premature expression of cyclin E during early G1 phase; EtOH partially restored the normal timing (late G1 phase) of cyclin E expression. The results suggest that zinc and EtOH promote insulin‐induced DNA synthesis by different mechanisms; while zinc acts by enhancing the effects of insulin on MAP kinase activation, EtOH may act by ensuring timely zinc‐dependent insulin‐induced expression of cyclin E.
Effects of increased intraocular pressure on rat retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Ahmed Farid A.K.M. , Chaudhary P. , Sharma S.C.
Published: July 2002

The effects of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) on the morphology of rat retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) was analyzed in this study. After cauterizing two limbal derived episcleral veins, IOP in experimental eyes was elevated 1.5–1.8 times that of control. RGCs of experimental and control eyes were analyzed after: bilateral tectal injections of Fluoro‐Gold, and application of fluorescent dye crystals, 4‐Di‐10‐ASP to the proximal stump of the cut optic nerve, at different time intervals after IOP elevation. The RGCs in control and experimental eyes were evaluated at 4, 6, 8, and 10 weeks by counting, as well as by determining the soma diameter. The dendritic field of three types (I, II, III) of RGCs between control and experimental eyes were also studied at 4,6,10 weeks after IOP elevation. At every time point, the number of cells in experimental eyes were significantly less than those of the control eyes. The average retinal ganglion cell death was 3–4% per week in the eyes with elevated IOP. The soma and dendritic field diameter of the RGCs in the experimental eyes were significantly larger in all cell types. However, types I and III cells expanded their dendritic fields more rapidly than type II cells. Furthermore, dendritic fields of surviving RGCs in experimental eyes occupied about the same extent of the retina as the controls. The increase in soma diameter and expansion of dendritic fields in the remaining RGCs in eyes with elevated IOP suggests the existence of plasticity in adult retina.