bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
B-box containing protein 1 from Malus domestica (MdBBX1) is involved in the abiotic stress response
Authors: Dai Yaqing , Lu Ying , Zhou Zhou , Wang Xiaoyun , Ge Hongjuan , Sun Qinghua
Published: February 2022

B-box proteins (BBXs), which act as transcription factors, mainly regulate photomorphogenesis. However, the molecular functions underlying the activity of plant BBXs in response to abiotic stress remain largely unclear. In this investigation, we found that a BBX from Malus domestica (MdBBX1) was involved in the response to various abiotic stresses. The expression of MdBBX1 was significantly upregulated in response to abiotic stresses and abscisic acid (ABA). Recombinant MdBBX1 increased stress tolerance in Escherichia coli cells. In addition, overexpression of MdBBX1 in Arabidopsis decreased sensitivity to exogenous ABA, resulting in a germination rate and root length that were greater and longer, respectively, than those of wild-type (WT) plants. Moreover, the expression of ABI5 was decreased in MdBBX1-overexpressing lines under ABA treatment. After salt and drought treatments, compared with the WT plants, the MdBBX1 transgenic plants displayed enhanced tolerance and had a higher survival rate. Furthermore, under salt stress, increased proline (PRO) contents, decreased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX)) and decreased accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were observed in the MdBBX1-overexpressing plants. Overall, our results provide evidence that MdBBX1 might play a critical role in the regulation of abiotic stress tolerance by reducing the generation of ROS.
BIRC5 promotes cancer progression and predicts prognosis in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Nan , Huang Xuanyu , Cheng Jinsheng
Published: February 2022

Background

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) remains one of the most common respiratory tumors worldwide. Baculoviral inhibitor of apoptosis repeat containing 5 (BIRC5) is a member of the inhibitor-of-apoptosis protein family. BIRC5 plays an important role in various types of cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and invasion. However, the specific role of BIRC5 in LSCC remains unclear.

Methods

To provide a prognostic biomarker for LSCC, we screened the prognostic genes of LSCC via bioinformatics. PPI network and KEGG pathways were used to select hub genes. Clinical prognoses were performed using a Kaplan–Meier plotter and Cox proportional-hazard analysis. BIRC5 expression in LSCC tissues and cell lines were detected by RT-PCR, Western blot and Immunohistochemistry (IHC). Cell proliferation, cell cycle and cell apoptosis were detected with Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and Flow Cytometry assay, respectively.

Results

Here, BIRC5 was strongly correlated with higher tumor grade and differentiation. BIRC5 was highly expressed in LSCC tissues when compared with normal tissues and increased expression of BIRC5 was associated with overall survival in LSCC patients. The suppression of BIRC5 induced cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of LSCC cells. The survival analysis confirmed that higher level of BIRC5 expression predicted poor prognosis of LSCC patients. BIRC5 may act as an oncogene of LSCC development and was suggested as a promising prognostic biomarker for LSCC.
Bowel Gangrene in Neonate Born to COVID Mother – Is it a Manifestation of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Newborn?
Authors: Supriya M. A. , S. Gubbari Chinthan , Reddy Chikkanarasa , Govindarajan Varun , Kariyappa Mallesh
Published: February 2022

Aims: Pregnant mothers with SARS-CoV2 infection are postulated to transfer anti-COVID-19 antibodies to their fetus, which may lead to cytokine storm and fetal inflammatory syndrome, similar to multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Manifestations of this newly emerging entity are not elucidated, but MIS in Newborn (MIS-NB) must be suspected whenever a neonate born to COVID positive mother is presenting with unusual symptoms.

Clinical Description: We report a preterm, low birth weight, Monochorionic Diamniotic (MCDA) twin neonate born to COVID positive mother who developed abdominal distension in first few hours of life, initially suspected to have small bowel atresia. Baby had elevated inflammatory panel and given IVIG, suspecting MIS-NB. Intraoperatively the baby was noted to have gangrenous bowel, which required extensive surgical resection, but baby succumbed postoperatively.

Conclusion: This report highlights possible intestinal manifestations of possible COVID-19 related fetal inflammatory syndrome.
Performance of Shalimar Rice-4 (SR -4) underFront Line Demonstration Programme in DistrictBudgam, of Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Akhter Sabia , Dar Nasir Ahmad , Nabi Ambreen , Yousuf Vaseem , Munshi Rafiya , Ahmad Sofi Khurshid , Nadeem Mir , Jan Rukhsana , Farooq Iram , Ahmad Zargar Khurshid
Published: February 2022

Front Line Demonstration (FLD) Programme on Shalimar Rice-4 was carried out during the four successive years of 2018, 2019, 2020and 2021on the farmers field. The farmers were selected from different villages of the district Budgam. The variety SR-4 was used in the demonstrated plots atfarmers’ field where different field operations were carried out according to the package of practices of SKUAST-K. During the FLD programme the average seed yield of SR-4 during the four years was 85q/hain demonstrated fields as compared to50.5q/ha seed obtained from the local check (China-1039).The average technology gap over the four years was found to be 2.08q/ha and extension gap 34.56q/ha. The average technology index was 3.18 per cent. Higher gross returns (Rs. 1,30,013 ha-1), net returns (89,637.5 ha-1) with a benefit-cost ratio of 2.22 were found in demonstrated fields as compared to 1.38 in case of local check. The higher yield is attributed to the introduction of newly released SKUAST K high yielding variety of rice (SR-4).
Growth and Yield Performance of Baby Corn (Zea mays l.) as Influenced by Row Spacing and Phosphorus Application in Black Cotton Soils of Krishna Zone of Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Mydhili Teja R. P. S. , Ravichandra K. , Dawson Joy
Published: February 2022

Baby corn has a high monetary value, which allows for crop diversification value addition, and revenue generating. As a result, agro-techniques for its cultivation must be standardised. Hence, a field experiment was conducted during the rabi season in black clayey soils at Fodder Production Farm of Livestock Research Station, Sri Venkateswara veterinary University, Lam Farm, Guntur-522034, Andhra Pradesh, India to find out the Influence of different levels of phosphorus (40, 50, 60 kg/ha) and various row spacings (40 x 15 cm, 45 x 15 cm, 50 x 15 cm) on growth and yield of baby corn. The experiment was laid out in Randomised Block Design with nine treatments each replicated thrice. It is observed that crop established with 50 x 15 cm spacing along with application of 50 kg/ha Phosphorus produced Maximum growth attributes viz. Plant height (161.10 cm), Numbers of leaves (12.47), Plant dry weight (90.21 g/plant) and yield attributes viz. No. of cobs/ plant (4.03), Length of cob (24.34 cm), Length of corn (9.47 cm), Cob weight (56.38 g), corn weight (11.61 g), Cob yield (35696.67 kg/ha), Corn yield (7560 kg/ha).
Effect of Planting Techniques and Nitrogen Scheduling on Productivity and Profitability of Basmati Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Kumar Mukesh , Naresh R. K. , Singh Adesh , Kumar Satendra , Singh P. K.
Published: February 2022

Aim: The present experiment was carried out at Crop Research Center of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut (U.P.), India, to study the effect of planting techniques and nitrogen scheduling on scented wet rice, water productivity and soil health in Inceptisol during kharif season of 2019 and 2020.

Study Design: Experiment was laid out in split plot design (SPD) using crop planting techniques as main plot and nitrogen scheduling as sub plot factor.

Place and Duration of Study: The present investigation was conducted during the kharif season of 2019 and 2020 at the Crop Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut (U.P.), India.

Methodology: The main factors consist of four planting techniques viz., Furrow Irrigated Raised Bed System (FIRBs), Reduced Tillage Transplanted Rice (RT-TPR), Unpuddled Transplanted Rice (UTR) and Conventional Transplanted Rice (CTR), the sub factors consist of six nitrogen scheduling variables viz., Control, 100% RDN (50% B + 25% AT + 25% PI), 100% RDN (40% B + 35% AT + 25% PI), 120% RDN (50% B + 25% AT + 25% PI), 120% RDN (40% B + 35% AT + 25% PI) and Real Time N Management through LCC. Observations on crop yield and attributing parameters were recorded at the harvest of crop. Crop was harvested manually at full physiological maturity. The straw yield was obtained by subtract grain yield from the total biomass yield, recorded plot wise after sun drying and computed to q ha-1.

Results: Highest yield recorded under conventional transplanting which was statistically at par with FIRBs and significantly higher than UTR and RT-TPR. Among the nitrogen scheduling practices the highest yield and NPK uptake was obtained with Real Time N Management through LCC which was statistically at par with 120% RDN (50% B + 25% AT + 25% PI) and 100% RDN (50% B + 25% AT + 25% PI), lowest yield and nutrient uptake was obtained in control treatment during both the years of study. Highest net return and B: C ratio was recorded under furrow irrigated raised beds transplanted rice.

Conclusion: Basmati rice gave the higher yield under CTR and net return was associated with FIRBs. Therefore, it may be concluded that transplanting of rice on FIRBs with real time nitrogen management through LCC might be a better option to get higher productivity and profitability of basmati rice.
Studies on the Effectiveness of Wild and Commercialstrains of Lactic Acid Bacteria Starter Culture during Backsloping for Yoghurt Production
Authors: Labbo Z. , Onuh O. A. , Mbochi A. C. , Shanu M. A. , Olukotun G. B. , Wood T. T. , Okolie E. C.
Published: February 2022

Yogurt is one of the traditionally fermented dairy products which are usually prepared with lactic acid bacteria cultures containing Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus. This starter culture could be prepared in addition to other bacteria as probiotics. Yoghurt has gained widespread consumer acceptance as a healthy diet. Yoghurts products are produced in Nigeria by using the imported starter culture bacteria and has played significant roles in helping dairy farmers convert their short-life, highly perishable fresh milk to fairly more stable products like cheese and yoghurt which are highly nutritious too for both low-and high-income earners. However, there are concerns over the growing food and food-related import dependency in the sub-African countries and Nigeria in particular which have increased during the last few years. The selection of indigenous starter culture strains withthecapacity for backsloping in yoghurt production might reduce importation and improve economy in a way. A foundamental benefit of backsloping is that it reduces the fermentation time while successfully maintaining sensory attributes of the product. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of backsloping fermentation of milk using indigenous and commercial (Exotic) strains of Lactic Acid Bacteria. Yoghurt fermentation was carried out by backsloping method using three commercial (Exotic) formulated cultures of Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophillus; ES07, ES32 and ES14 respectively as well aswild (isolated) formulated culture strains; WS11, WS65 and WS13 respectively and were used to produce yoghurt using backsloping method.. The overall sensory attributes of yoghurts produced using exotic compared with indigenous strains showed no significant (p > 0.05) difference in term of acidification and coagulation ability. The pH of fermented products using commercial cultures ranged from 4.53-5.32,  While pH of yoghurts produced using isolated cultures ranged from 4.35 – 4.72, total plate count 2.7 x 107- 2.3 x 108cfu/ml during the 10 hour fermentation times.The overall acceptability were in the decreasing order; WS65>WS11>ES07>WS13>ES14>ES32.. From this order, backloping has equal advantages when both local and commercial starter cultures are used. Therefore, Starter culture formulation using indigenous strains could be further developed genetically for commercial applications because they compete favourably with their exotic counterparts. Hence, the current challenges of importation due to Covid-19 economic reality and foreign exchange will reduce to a minimal if the indigenous strains are utilised.
Pathophysiological and Sociological Factors Associated with Infections of Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma urealyticum in Patients who Came at the Military Hospital Region No.1 of Yaoundé, Cameroon
Authors: Kenmegne Marie Antoinette Noumbissi , Kengne Landry Gounmadje , Djova Steve Valdi , Roger Ayangma Célestin , Ascension Nyegue Maximilienne
Published: February 2022

Aims: The general objective of this work was to highlight the physiopathological and sociological factors linked to uro-genital infections with Mycoplasma hominis (Mh) and Ureaplasma urealyticum (Uu), in patients who come to the consultation at the Military Hospital Region N ° 1 in Yaoundé.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was carried out at at the Military Hospital Region N°1 in Yaoundé between 2017 and 2019

Methodology: Patients whose mycoplasma examination was done, were included in the retrospective study (2017 and 2018) and patients obtained in 3 months (January to march 2019) during the prospective study were also included. Parameters of patients were collected. These parameters were analyzed using SPSS 23 software and graphs were plotted using GraphPad Prism 7 software.

Results: From the 231 patients included, 152 (65.80%) were infected with MUG. The pathophysiological factors associated with Mh and Uu infections are young people aged 25 to 31 (39.47%), women (98.68 %), the use of hormonal contraceptives (15.79%), as well as other pathogens associated with mycoplasmas. The prospective study shows that, of the 20 patients obtained, 10 (50%) were infected with MUG. The most infected patients were women with a frequency of 80% and the most affected age group was 25 to 31 years old. The sociological factors noticed in these patients are the status of being single (70.39%), the type of professions such as students (21.70%), housewives (17.76%), women in the military (13.82%), women entrepreneurs (11.84%) and the non-use of condoms during sexual intercourse.

Conclusion: The pathophysiological and sociological factors influencing the development of mycoplasma infection show that one can control the occurrence of the infection as well as infertility problems and spontaneous abortion in Cameroon.
A 7-year Follow up of a Solitary Cyst on the Mandibular First Premolar: A Case Report
Authors: Dib Hassan , Halabi Said , Aad Georges , Berberi Antoine
Published: February 2022

Aims: The principal goal of the following case report is to shed light on the importance of thorough clinical, radiological and histological examinations in order to exhibit a final diagnosis of solitary bone cyst, as well as the importance of the surgical treatment for a better outcome.

Presentation of case:  A case of solitary cyst was identified accidentally in the mandibular right premolars’ region of an asymptomatic 14-year-old male patient post orthodontic consultation. Panoramic radiograph revealed a well-circumscribed, unilocular, radiolucent area giving a typical scalloped appearance between the roots of the involved teeth, that is, 43–44 (Federation Dentaire Internationale). The lesion was asymptomatic and no cervical lymphadenopathy was detected.

Discussion: Solitary bone cysts are infrequent mandibular cavities lacking epithelial coating and that are most commonly found in the posterior region of the lower jaw. They exhibit multiple names such as traumatic bone cyst, hemorrhagic bone cyst, extravasation cyst, progressive bone cavity and single chamber bone cyst. Solitary bone cysts are usually asymptomatic but may cause bone deformities, teeth displacement as well as pathological fractures of the affected region. Solitary bone cyst, also found in other skeletal locations, is often suspected after epidemiologic and radiologic test results and confirmed at surgery.

Conclusion: In solitary bone cysts cases, undoubtedly, the determinant factor is surgical exploration of the lesion, although its clinical characteristics and scientific literature descriptions must be borne in mind as well as the fact that histological and radiographic characteristics are important to sustain accurate diagnosis. Since etiology of these cysts is unknown to the present date, it can only be intuited according to personal characteristics of each patient. The most accepted theory suggested a traumatic origin for these lesions. Nevertheless, when trauma is discarded as etiologic factor, the most accepted theory would be related to calcium metabolism alterations associated to the overall condition of our patient.
Adult Scoliosis: Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Anas Zahra Ahmed , El Aziz Elsharkay Ahmed Abd , Ahmed Shamhoot Ebrahim , Mohamed Shafik Ibrahim , Seif Eldein Ali Ibrahim
Published: February 2022

Background: Adult scoliosis is a common spine deformity. It is very debilitating to daily activities of the patients. Surgical management requires a clear assessment of the functional impact of scoliosis, the failure of conservative treatments and precise analysis of radiological investigations (full spine views, dynamic X-rays and MRI). The back pain was the main complaint as it was the main presentation. The aim of the work is to assess the outcomes of surgical procedures in patients with adult scoliosis.

Methods: This prospective study was conducted on 30 patients with adult scoliosis with cobb angel more than 10 degrees. Surgical techniques (anterior and posterior approaches, decompression, osteotomies, fusion, and instrumentation) done and tailored to each patient. Decompression alone found usually not enough, fusion needed almost in all cases.

Results: Patient disability using Oswestry disability index assessed before and after intervention.  Also a good, accepted change achieved as 15 patients restore about 75% of their abilities ,7 patients restore more than 50% of their usual ability,3 patients restore about 25% of their usual ability. Cobb’s angel before intervention was 6 cases < 60 degrees,14 cases between 50 and 60 degrees and 10 cases between 40 and 50 degrees became 14 cases between 10 and 0 degrees, and 10 cases between 10 and 20 degrees. Surgical treatment of adult scoliosis is associated with a better quality of life for patients when good selection of the patient and maneuvers done. Visual analogue scale before and postoperative, and three and six months later detect ,a good result achieved, As VAS before intervention was ; 20 patients from 9 to 10,9 patients from 6 to 8, one patient from 3 to 5. VAS post-operative after sex months became only four patients from 6 to 8, twenty four patients from 3 to 5and only two patients from 0 to 2.

Conclusions: Surgical management of adult scoliosis become more applicable, Spine managed as one unit, Correction of coronal and sagittal malalignment done together, Do not neglect one of them. Using both free hand , c arm and even navigator when needed help in good outcomes and complications avoidance, management strategy differ according many factors, The technique requires proper selection of cases before surgery and meticulous attention during surgery to identify the correct starting point, screw orientation and screw length selection. Surgical outcomes of adult scoliosis clinical, radiological and neurological outcome were satisfied without major complications.
Role of Green Banking on Sustainable Human Resource Management: An Empirical Study on Private Banks of Bangladesh
Authors: Jannat Fatema , Mutsuddi Prantika , Rahman Md. Habibur , Al-Amin Md.
Published: February 2022

Banking is considered as a fundamental element to carry on different modern economic activities both in developed and developing nations all over the world. In the case of emerging nations like Bangladesh, implementing sustainable development projects to provide maximum access to different sustainable financing commodities and to exist long time are difficult for various reasons. Without the better financial environment, it would be very difficult to implement any energy related projects domestically. The main objective of this paper is to explore how green banking institutions can provide assistance for achieving sustainable human resource management for banking institutions also sustainable development in Bangladesh effectively. Sustainable development is a constitutional obligation for Bangladesh and sustainable human resource management is the front-line frontier of sustainable development through sustainable Banking. Banking industry holds a unique position with regard to sustainable development because of their intermediation online banking function between depositors and borrowers. This paper examines the current initiatives taken by the regulatory authorities of banking industry in the context of Bangladesh. The study is partially exploratory in nature and includes desk research on existing literature and content analysis to appropriately develop an understanding of the concepts and the role of banking industry towards sustainability in human resource management with special reference to Green Banking (GB) which helps to achieve e-Vacancy advertising, E-recruitment and selection, online based training and development, data warehouse to HR planning etc. The study revealed a positive response in implementing the sustainability issues in HRM by the banks in various capacities under the guidance of the Central Bank. The outcome of the paper is expected to unveil the position of the bank practitioners and policy makers about the sustainability concepts and current status sustainability initiatives taken by the regulatory authority in the banking industry of Bangladesh.
A gene fusion event in the evolution of aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases
Authors: Berthonneau Eric , Mirande Marc
Published: July 2002

The genes of glutamyl‐ and prolyl‐tRNA synthetases (GluRS and ProRS) are organized differently in the three kingdoms of the tree of life. In bacteria and archaea, distinct genes encode the two proteins. In several organisms from the eukaryotic phylum of coelomate metazoans, the two polypeptides are carried by a single polypeptide chain to form a bifunctional protein. The linker region is made of imperfectly repeated units also recovered as singular or plural elements connected as N‐terminal or C‐terminal polypeptide extensions in various eukaryotic aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases. Phylogenetic analysis points to the monophyletic origin of this polypeptide motif appended to six different members of the synthetase family, belonging to either of the two classes of aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases. In particular, the monospecific GluRS and ProRS from Caenorhabditis elegans, an acoelomate metazoan, exhibit this recurrent motif as a C‐terminal or N‐terminal appendage, respectively. Our analysis of the extant motifs suggests a possible series of events responsible for a gene fusion that gave rise to the bifunctional glutamyl‐prolyl‐tRNA synthetase through recombination between genomic sequences encoding the repeated units.
Resonance Raman spectroscopy of sensory rhodopsin II from Natronobacterium pharaonis
Authors: Gellini Cristina , Lüttenberg Beate , Sydor Jens , Engelhard Martin , Hildebrandt Peter
Published: July 2002

Sensory rhodopsin II (pSRII), the photophobic receptor from Natronobacterium pharaonis, has been studied by time‐resolved resonance Raman (RR) spectroscopy using the rotating cell technique. Upon excitation with low laser power, the RR spectra largely reflect the parent state pSRII500 whereas an increase of the laser power leads to a substantial accumulation of long‐lived intermediates contributing to the RR spectra. All RR spectra could consistently be analysed in terms of four component spectra which were assigned to the parent state pSRII500 and the long‐lived intermediates M400, N485 and O535 based on the correlation between the C=C stretching frequency and the absorption maximum. The parent state and the intermediates N485 and O535 exhibit a protonated Schiff base. The C=N stretching frequencies and the H/D isotopic shifts indicate strong hydrogen bonding interactions of the Schiff base in pSRII500 and O535 whereas these interactions are most likely very weak in N485.
Climate and the northern distribution limits of Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)
Authors: Ungerer Matthew J. , Ayres Matthew P. , Lombardero María J.
Published: July 2002

The southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis, is among the most important agents of ecological disturbance and economic loss in forests of the south‐eastern United States. We combined physiological measurements of insect temperature responses with climatic analyses to test the role of temperature in determining the northern distribution limits of D. frontalis. Laboratory measurements of lower lethal temperatures and published records of mortality in wild populations indicated that air temperatures of −16° should result in almost 100% mortality of D. frontalis. The distribution limits for D. frontalis approximate the isoline corresponding to an annual probability of 0.90 of reaching ≤−16 °C. Thus, D. frontalis have been found about as far north as they could possibly occur given winter temperature regimes. At latitudes from 39° N (southern Ohio) to 33° N (central Alabama), winter temperatures must exert high mortality on D. frontalis populations in at least one year out of ten. In contrast, we reject the hypotheses that summer temperatures or the distribution of host trees constrain the northern distribution of D. frontalis. Because of the short generation time of D. frontalis, its high dispersal abilities, and the cosmopolitan distribution of suitable host trees, changes in either the mean or variance of minimum annual temperatures could have almost immediate effects on regional patterns of beetle infestations. We estimate that an increase of 3 °C in minimum annual temperature could extend the northern distribution limits by 170 km. Increases or decreases in the variance of minimum annual temperatures would further relax climatic constraints on the northern distribution limits of D. frontalis. Results emphasize the ecological importance of spatial and temporal variability in minimum annual temperatures. The physiologically based models provide a tool for guiding land management decisions in forests and illustrate a general approach for predicting the regional effects of climatic patterns on the distribution of organisms.
Microsatellite analysis of genetic variation among and within Alpine marmot populations in the French Alps
Authors: Goossens B. , Chikhi L. , Taberlet P. , Waits L. P. , AllainÉ D.
Published: July 2002

The genetic structure of the Alpine marmot, Marmota marmota, was studied by an analysis of five polymorphic microsatellite loci. Eight locations were sampled in the French Alps, one from Les Ecrins valley (n = 160), another from La Sassière valley (n = 289) and the six others from the Maurienne valley (n = 139). Information on social group structure was available for both Les Ecrins and La Sassière but not for the other samples. The high levels of genetic diversity observed are at odds with the results obtained using microsatellites, minisatellites and allozymes on Alpine marmots from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Strong deficits in heterozygotes were found in Les Ecrins and La Sassière. They are caused by a Wahlund effect due to the family structure (i.e. differentiation between the family groups). The family groups exhibit excess of heterozygotes rather than deficits. This may be caused by outbreeding and this is compatible with recent results from the genetics of related social species when information on the social structure is taken into account. The observed outbreeding could be the result of females mating with transient males or males coming from neighbouring colonies. Both indicate that the species may not be as monogamous as is usually believed. The results are also compatible with a male‐biased dispersal but do not allow us to exclude some female migration. We also found a significant correlation between geographical and genetic distance indicating that isolation by distance could be an issue in marmots. This study is the first that analysed populations of marmots taking into account the social structure within populations and assessing inbreeding at different levels (region, valley, population, and family groups). Our study clearly demonstrated that the sampling strategy and behavioural information can have dramatic effects on both the results and interpretation of the genetic data.
Ethics in Community Psychiatry
Authors: Szmukler George
Published: July 2002

Objective: The aim of this paper is to clarify the ethical challenges resulting from new models of community psychiatry and to examine practical approaches aimed at meeting them.

Method: Review of the literature and observations both as clinician and medical director of community services.

Results: Assertive community treatment presents ethical dilemmas relating to privacy, confidentiality, ‘coercion’ and conflicts of duty to the patient versus others, including carers and the wider community. Their acuity is influenced by the context in which services are provided, especially community fears of the consequences of care in the community for the severely mentally ill. Approaches to resolving ethical problems include increasing patient involvement in their care, clarifying the grounds for ‘paternalistic’ interventions, and re-examining grounds for acting to reduce the risk of harm to others.

Conclusions: The ethical dilemmas are not new, but they present in sufficiently different guises to warrant reconsideration in their new context. There has been a reluctance to face them, but if community psychiatric practice is to survive, it must rest on a sound ethical base.
E‐CADHERIN AND β‐CATENIN COMPLEX IN ANIMAL MODELS OF HEREDITARY DEMYELINATING PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY
Authors: Menichella D.M. , Baron P.L. , Livraghi S. , Conti G. , Scarpini E. , Scarlato G.
Published: July 2002

E‐cadherin, a major adhesive glycoprotein in Schwann cells (Fannon et al., 1995), is localized at the paranode, at Schmidt‐Lanterman incisures in the peripheral nerve along with β‐catenin, and associated with adherens‐type junctions. To investigate the functional role of E‐cadherin/β‐catenin complex in Schwann cells biology, we studied expression and localization of E‐cadherin and β‐catenin complex in sciatic nerve from normal mice and from animal model of hereditary demyelinating peripheral neuropathy.

We found that E‐cadherin mRNA and proteins levels are regulated in normal mouse sciatic nerve during development like other myelin proteins. Furthermore, E‐cadherin expression in regenerating nerve is mediated by axonal/SC interaction. On the contrary, β‐catenin mRNA and protein levels did not change during development and following nerve lesion. Moreover, E‐cadherin/β‐catenin complex localization is altered in P0 knockout mice (P0‐/‐). In fact, E‐cadherin was diffusely distributed throughout the fibers in an unusual beaded pattern of staining, and β‐catenin was found in the perinuclear region of P0 ‐/‐ Schwann cells.

Furthermore, E‐cadherin/β‐catenin complex localization is altered in peripheral nerve from other model of primary demielination where myelin compaction is lacking, such as Trembler‐J mice, while it is normally localized in Trembler mice, where demyelination is less severe and compaction is preserved.

In conclusion, it appears that the process that leads to a restricted localization of E‐cadherin at the paranodal region is highly regulated and is disrupted in the peripheral nerve lacking compaction.

Therefore, compaction contributes to the process of reorganization of the Schwann cells membrane during myelination and formation of a mature paranode. Altered E‐cadherin/β‐catenin complex localization, associated with absence of adherens junctions lead to changes in the structure of the paranodal region with important consequences on the molecular architecture of the Node of Ranvier, which lead to an altered transmission of impulses along axons, having important consequences in the pathogenesis of hereditary demyelinating peripheral neuropathy.
PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY IN HCV‐RELATED MIXED CRYOGLOBULINEMIA
Authors: Sanges G. , Ammendola A. , Ambrosone L. , Sampaolo S. , Cesarano M. , Migliaresi S. , Di Iorio G.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and features of peripheral neuropathy in HCV‐related mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC).

Methods: 133 consecutive patients (23 males and 110 females, age range 23–73 years) with MC (double immunodiffusion) were studied. Immuno‐fixation electrophoresis was performed in 127 cases: in 117 a type II, and in 10 type III MC was found. In all the patients circulating anti‐HCV antibodies and in 79/87 HCV‐RNA were detected. ENG was performed in 52 patients and sural nerve biopsy in 16.

Results: Neurological examination revealed a peripheral neuropathy in 107 patients (80.4%): 50 had a distal symmetric sensory‐motor polyneuropathy, 55 multiple mononeuropathies, 2 a mononeuropathy. During the course of the illness, mononeuropathies tend to overlap giving a polyneuropathy. ENG showed neuropathic features in 48/52 patients (92.3%), 8 of them without clinical symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Axonal damage, mainly sensitive, more expressed in the lower limbs, was the commonest electroneurographic finding. Sural nerve biopsy showed axonal degeneration with perineurial and endoneurial microangiopathy, rare cellular infiltrates, erytrocyte diapedesis.

Conclusions: Peripheral neuropathy is a common, early, and often severe complication in HCV‐related MC. The pattern of nerve changes suggests a vascular mediated damage. Hypoxia and immunological factors may be concurrent pathogenetic mechanisms.
CHARCOT‐MARIE‐TOOTH WITH DIAPHRAGM AND VOCAL CORD PARALYSIS (CMT2C)
Authors: Santoro L. , Manganelli F. , Barbieri F. , Di Maio L. , Casari G.
Published: July 2002

Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease (CMT) is the most common inherited disorder of the peripheral nervous system and is clinically and genetically heterogeneous. Recent advances of molecular genetics has dramatically increased our understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms. Genetic linkage studies have identified a lot of genetic loci for different types of inherited neuropathies, although most genes involved still remain to be found. In fact, the axonal type of CMT associated with diaphragm and vocal cord paralysis (CMT2C) is not yet associated to a gene locus. We describe seven members affected by CMT2C belonging to a family expanded for three generations, and with a male‐to‐male transmission. Four patients, all affected by vocal cord paralysis (VCp) showed also distal weakness and atrophy more severely in the lower limbs. Three of these patients were treated surgically by arytenoidopexy for VCp, the last one with VCp and diaphragm paralysis was treated with cordectomy.

Three other patients showed marked weakness and hypotrophy of upper and lower limbs. Two of these patients complained of laryngeal stridor and dispnoea during activity, the last one had neonatal diagnosis of SMA, but did not show respiratory impairment. All patients had pes cavus and absence of deep tendon reflexes. EMG examination showed clear neurogenic lesions in all the patients and in all the explored muscles. Conduction velocity (CV) studies showed an almost normal CV, while sensory‐ and motor‐evoked potentials had a severe amplitude reduction. Sural nerve biopsy performed in one patient showed clear signs of axonal degeneration.

Our data confirm the association between VCp and axonal type of CMT, already described in isolated cases but only in two families in literature. We are trying to perform a linkage analysis in this family and we hope that this can help in understanding pathophysiologic mechanisms and the association between VCp and CMT.
SENSORY GANGLIONOPATHY ASSOCIATED WITH SJÖGREN'S SYNDROME PRESENTING WITH DYSPHAGIA
Authors: Scoditti U. , Palomba V. , Marbini A. , Pavesi G. , Gemignani F.
Published: July 2002

Sensory ganglionopathy is a sensory neuropathy characterized by inflammatory infiltration of the sensory ganglia, including trigeminal ganglia, in association with Sjögren's syndrome, or idiopathic. We report a patient who had a peculiar presentation with dysphagia.

A 76‐year‐old man presented with a 1‐year history of dysphagia and weight loss, and facial dysesthesias. A diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis was initially suspected, because of muscular atrophy and bulbar signs, however EMG showed only mild neurogenic changes, excluding signs of motor neuron involvement.

Neurological examination showed absent corneal reflexes, moderate muscular wasting and mild weakness in the extremities, absent deep tendon reflexes in the legs, and sensory loss over the face and extremities.

Electroneurographic study demonstrated absent blink reflex, and severely decreased or absent sensory action potentials in the limb nerves.

Laboratory investigations, including CSF examination and search for anti‐neural antibodies, were negative.

A sicca syndrome was demonstrated by Schirmer test and salivary gland scintigraphy, and lower lip biopsy showed focal sialoadenitis according to the criteria of Greenspan et al (1974).

A pure sensory or mainly sensory neuropathy with prominent trigeminal involvement is quite typical in the course of collagen diseases, and in particular in Sjögren's syndrome, supported by T cell infiltration in the dorsal root ganglia. In our case, the presence of sicca syndrome and focal sialoadenitis was consistent with the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome. We suggest that dysphagia, an atypical symptom in sensory ganglionopathy, may be related to involvement of the sensory ganglia of the glossopharyngeal and/or vagus nerve.
TRANSFECTION OF PRIMARY SCHWANN CELL CULTURES AND OF ORGANOTYPIC DORSAL ROOT GANGLIA CULTURES: PRELIMINARY RESULTS AND TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: Zerega B. , Nobbio L. , Paleari L. , Levi G. , Abbruzzese M. , Torre G.C. , Banchi L. , Mancardi G.L. , Schenone A.
Published: July 2002

The most common forms of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease are due to duplication/deletion of the myelin protein 22 gene (PMP22); however, several patients harbor point mutations in PMP22 or in other myelin related proteins. To study the mechanism by which dominant point mutations affect myelin formation and maintenance, we are attempting to optimize gene transfer protocols into Schwann cells (SC) that will introduce expression constructs carrying mutated cDNA.

Initial experiments were carried out on pure primary cultures of SC from sciatic nerves of newborn rats, co‐cultured with primary sensory neurons under conditions inducing myelination in vitro. Using the EGFP expression vector, which induces endogenous green fluorescence in the transfected cells, we have tested a number of gene transfer approaches, including electroporation and polycationic reagents (FuGene). Best results are obtained with the FuGene reagent (Boheringer) (up to 25%), while the electroporation is less efficient (5%–12%). However, the difficulties in selecting and expanding SC after transfection need to be overcome. Thus, we are optimizing gene transfer procedures on organotypic cultures of dorsal root ganglia from 15 day‐old‐rat embryos. SC and neurons are identified by their morphology; immunostaining with S100 and antibodies to phosphorlated neurophylaments are used to recognize, respectively, SC and axons. Using either Lipofectamine 2000 (GIBCO) and FuGene, polycationic reagents, SC are trasfected to levels of efficiency comparable or better than pure culture protocols. The same cultures maintained for 15 days after transfection showed extensive axonal growth and initial myelin formation. Scattered SC were still expressing the transgene at a visible level.

These advances will likely help in understanding the role of specific genes in myelination and learning how their mutated forms lead to hereditary demyelinating neuropathies.
A Model for Individual Tree Development Based on Physiological Processes
Authors: Grote R. , Pretzsch H.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: A tree growth model is presented which calculates the 3D development of trees and stands in dependence on their individual carbon, water and nitrogen balance. The availability of energy, soil water and nutrients is estimated from field data at the scale of crown and root system fractions, taking into account the individual neighbourhood. The model includes a simple estimation of radiation distribution and the simulation of carbon and nutrient exchange. Senescence is represented by compartment‐specific turnover rates. Allocation of carbon and nitrogen into foliage, fine roots, branches, coarse roots, and the stem is calculated according to functional balance and pipe model principles. Dimensional changes are calculated annually according to the distribution of net assimilation. The model describes tree development as a response to individual environmental conditions and changes environmental conditions with individual tree development. Due to this feedback loop, environmental influences can be assessed in any kind of species mixture or stand structure. Furthermore, the physiological‐based approach ensures that the model can be used for investigations of complex environmental changes, e.g. CO2 concentration, precipitation, temperature and nitrogen deposition. Thus, it is particularly suitable to analyse field investigations and to support the cognition process on the ecology of forests. It could also be used, however, to estimate forest responses to given environmental scenarios.
Time-dependent investigation of the resonant tunneling in a double-barrier quantum well
Authors: Guo H. , Diff K. , Neofotistos G. , Gunton J. D.
Published: July 2002

The temporal development of the wave function within a double-barrier quantum well is studied by numerically solving the time-dependent Schrödinger equation. One-dimensional AlGaAs-GaAs-AlGaAs and AlAs-GaAs-AlAs structures are considered in this study. The build-up time and the decay constant of the resonant probability amplitude have been computed as functions of the system parameters. In general, these times are considerably different in magnitude. The amplitude of the wave function trapped inside the well is found to depend crucially on the initial energy spread. The results are in good agreement with those of a recent photoluminescence experiment.
35 GHz cyclotron autoresonance maser amplifier
Authors: Bekefi G. , DiRienzo A. , Leibovitch C. , Danly B. G.
Published: July 2002

Studies of a cyclotron autoresonance maser are presented. The measurements are carried out at a frequency of 35 GHz using a mildly relativistic electron beam (1.5 MeV, 260 A) generated by a field emission electron gun followed by an emittance selector that removes the outer, hot electrons. Perpendicular energy is imparted to the electrons by means of a bifilar helical wiggler. Measurements give a small signal gain of 90 dB/m and a saturated power output of 10 MW. The corresponding electronic efficiency is 3%. Computer simulations are also presented.
High-current formed ferrite plasma cathode
Authors: Watanabe K. , van Goor F. A. , Witteman W. J.
Published: July 2002

A new type of plasma cathode for x-ray and electron beam generation has been demonstrated using a formed ferrite plasma source where a durable filament on the ferrite rod creates a large area of plasma surface as the electron source. Measured anode voltage-current relationships show the space-charge-limited operation with a high current density of 17 A/cm2 at 70 kV anode voltage during 2.5 μs. This source is promising for high repetition rate operation with a long life.
Amphoteric native defects in semiconductors
Authors: Walukiewicz W.
Published: July 2002

We show that a new concept of amphoteric native defects with strongly Fermi level dependent defect formation energy provides the basis for a unified explanation of a large variety of phenomena in semiconductors. Formation of Schottky barriers, particle irradiation induced compensation, doping-induced superlattice intermixing, and limits of free-carrier concentration find for the first time a common simple explanation.
High-efficiency indium tin oxide/indium phosphide solar cells
Authors: Li X. , Wanlass M. W. , Gessert T. A. , Emery K. A. , Coutts T. J.
Published: July 2002

Improvements in the performance of indium tin oxide/indium phosphide (ITO/InP) solar cells have been achieved by using dc magnetron sputter deposited n-ITO onto an epitaxial p/p+ structure grown on good quality commercial p+ bulk substrates. The composition of the sputtering gas has been investigated and the highest efficiency cells resulted when the surface of the epilayer was exposed to an Ar/H2 plasma before depositing the bulk of the ITO in a more typical Ar/O2 plasma. With H2 processing, record efficiencies of 18.9% global, 1000 W m−2, 25 °C (17.0% air mass zero) were achieved. Without H2 processing, the devices exhibited lower efficiencies and were unstable. Type conversion of the InP was shown to occur and was established as being associated with the ITO (possibly due to Sn donors) rather than sputter damage. These improvements in performance have resulted from the optimization of the doping, thickness, transport, and surface properties of the p-type base, as well as from better control over the ITO deposition procedure.
Diamond film synthesis in a chemically simplified system
Authors: Martin L. Robbin , Hill Michael W.
Published: July 2002

We have synthesized diamond films in a flow tube system in which methane is added downstream from a microwave discharge in 90% argon/10% hydrogen at 3 Torr. The chemistry in this system is simplified because the methane is not exposed to temperatures higher than the 850 °C wall temperature of the flow tube. Therefore, only the reaction of hydrogen atoms with methane initiates the chemistry of this system. Furthermore, the system is at uniform temperature and flow speed. Under these conditions, diamond is deposited on silicon substrates for a time of about 1 ms after injection of the methane.
Analysis of discontinuities in quantum waveguide structures
Authors: Weisshaar A. , Lary J. , Goodnick S. M. , Tripathi V. K.
Published: July 2002

We have used the modal expansion of the wave function in the discontinuity region based on the superposition principle together with a mode-matching technique to investigate the transmission characteristics of semiconductor quantum wire structures with discontinuities. Our calculations compare quite well with published results for the theoretical transmission coefficient and experimental conductance of a T-stub and split-gate geometry, respectively. We apply this technique to analyze the effect of right-angle bends in narrow quantum wires which show strong resonant behavior due to the presence of discontinuities in this geometry.
Dielectric properties of uniaxial crystals measured with optoelectronically generated microwave transient radiation
Authors: Pastol Y. , Arjavalingam G. , Kopcsay G. V. , Halbout J.-M.
Published: July 2002

Absorption and dispersion properties of sapphire and crystal quartz between 15 and 130 GHz were measured using the freely propagating transient radiation from optoelectronically pulsed integrated antennas. The polarization sensitivity of the experimental apparatus was characterized and used to obtain the absorption coefficients and refractive indices in the above frequency range for both ordinary and extraordinary beam propagation. We also studied the frequency-dependent transmission (amplitude and phase) of these two materials as a function of the angle between the electric field and the optic axis.