bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond Heaven and Earth
Authors: Levy Gabriel
Published: February 2022

An approach to understanding religion that draws on both humanities and natural science but rejects approaches that employ simple monisms and radical dualisms.

In Beyond Heaven and Earth, Gabriel Levy argues that collective religious narratives and beliefs are part of nature; they are the basis for the formation of the narratives and beliefs of individuals. Religion grows out of the universe, but to make sense of it we have to recognize the paradox that the universe is both mental and material (or neither). We need both humanities and natural science approaches to study religion and religious meaning, Levy contends, but we must also recognize the limits of these approaches. First, we must make the dominant metaphysics that undergird the various disciplines of science and humanities more explicit, and second, we must reject those versions of metaphysics that maintain simple monisms and radical dualisms.

Bringing Donald Davidson's philosophy—a form of pragmatism known as anomalous monism—to bear on religion, Levy offers a blueprint for one way that the humanities and natural sciences can have a mutually respectful dialogue. Levy argues that in order to understand religions we have to take their semantic content seriously. We need to rethink such basic concepts as narrative fiction, information, agency, creativity, technology, and intimacy. In the course of his argument, Levy considers the relation between two closely related semantics, fiction and religion, and outlines a new approach to information. He then applies his theory to discrete cases: ancient texts, modern media, and intimacy.
Telomere length regulation by Rif1 protein from Hansenula polymorpha
Authors: Malyavko Alexander N , Petrova Olga A , Zvereva Maria I , Polshakov Vladimir I , Dontsova Olga A
Published: February 2022

Rif1 is a large multifaceted protein involved in various processes of DNA metabolism – from telomere length regulation and replication to double-strand break repair. The mechanistic details of its action, however, are often poorly understood. Here, we report functional characterization of the Rif1 homologue from methylotrophic thermotolerant budding yeast Hansenula polymorpha DL-1. We show that, similar to other yeast species, H. polymorpha Rif1 suppresses telomerase-dependent telomere elongation. We uncover two novel modes of Rif1 recruitment at H. polymorpha telomeres: via direct DNA binding and through the association with the Ku heterodimer. Both of these modes (at least partially) require the intrinsically disordered N-terminal extension – a region of the protein present exclusively in yeast species. We also demonstrate that Rif1 binds Stn1 and promotes its accumulation at telomeres in H. polymorpha.
Using virtual reality for anatomical landmark annotation in geometric morphometrics
Authors: Messer Dolores , Atchapero Michael , Jensen Mark B. , Svendsen Michelle S. , Galatius Anders , Olsen Morten T. , Frisvad Jeppe R. , Dahl Vedrana A. , Conradsen Knut , Dahl Anders B. , Bærentzen Andreas
Published: February 2022

To study the shape of objects using geometric morphometrics, landmarks are oftentimes collected digitally from a 3D scanned model. The expert may annotate landmarks using software that visualizes the 3D model on a flat screen, and interaction is achieved with a mouse and a keyboard. However, landmark annotation of a 3D model on a 2D display is a tedious process and potentially introduces error due to the perception and interaction limitations of the flat interface. In addition, digital landmark placement can be more time-consuming than direct annotation on the physical object using a tactile digitizer arm. Since virtual reality (VR) is designed to more closely resemble the real world, we present a VR prototype for annotating landmarks on 3D models. We study the impact of VR on annotation performance by comparing our VR prototype to Stratovan Checkpoint, a commonly used commercial desktop software. We use an experimental setup, where four operators placed six landmarks on six grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) skulls in six trials for both systems. This enables us to investigate multiple sources of measurement error. We analyse both for the configuration and for single landmarks. Our analysis shows that annotation in VR is a promising alternative to desktop annotation. We find that annotation precision is comparable between the two systems, with VR being significantly more precise for one of the landmarks. We do not find evidence that annotation in VR is faster than on the desktop, but it is accurate.
The Nigeria’s Road Network: The Horror-Highway of Death
Authors: Elijah Yusuf, Izang , Rabi Menmak Nimlan,
Published: February 2022

Road accident is the most reoccurring event in the Nigeria’s highways but the most neglected field of study by researchers in the academia. The reoccurring accidents that happens in the Nigeria’s Trunk A, Trunk B and Trunk C roads on a daily bases are very alarming, with huge loss of lives loss, due to the poor conditions of roads and inadequate maintenance by it citizenry and governments at all level. It is with this concern in mind that this paper draws it objectives, which are to: understand the importance of road transport network to lives and the socio-economic development of the Nigeria; examine closely the poor state of road transport network in the country; and evaluate the cases of road accidents and deaths in Nigeria. Findings of this research show that Nigeria roads are characterized by potholes, gallops, slippery, bumps, untied roads, bushes, mud, poor bridges, stones and gravels, which causes road accidents in the country amongst other factors. Research finding also shows that Nigeria roads network is nothing but highways leading to death. The methodology of this paper is qualitative, using secondary source materials and participant observation. The conclusion of this paper draw strong recommendation on adequate road maintenance at all level of governments and the Nigeria citizens.
Magnetic Characterization of Co and Zn Nano Ferrites: Property Consideration for Oil-Spill Clean Up
Authors: Musa A. , Muhammad M. A. , Maharaz N. M. , Gidado A. S.
Published: February 2022

Nano-magnetic particles are significantly finding applications in environmental remediation. This work studied the magnetic properties of Co and Zn nano-ferrites, CoFe2O4 and ZnFe2O4 respectively, with considerations for the properties that are desirable for oil spill cleanup. The ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized by the glycol-thermal method at 200 ºC for 6 hours using a stirred pressure reactor. Single phase spinel crystal structures were obtained for both samples as determined by an X-ray diffraction (XRD) machine. The high-resolution transmission electron microscope and surface electron microscope images showed nano structures. The magnetic properties and magnetic hyperfine parameters were determined using a lakeshore vibrating sample magnetometer and 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy. The XRD peaks were consistent with that of a single phase spinel structure. No impurity phase was detected. The nano-ferrites have crystallite sizes of about 10 nm and 17 nm for CoFe2O4 and ZnFe2O4. The nano almost-spherical nature of the samples was also confirmed from their morphology studies. The saturation magnetization of CoFe2O4 and ZnFe2O4 were about 50 emu/g and 30 emu/g respectively. They both exhibited superparamagnetic properties with a component of para-magnetism observed in ZnFe2O4 nano-ferrites. CoFe2O4 nano-ferrites exhibited better desired property for oil spill cleanup. The ZnFe2O4 nano-ferrites showed tendencies of slow response to magnetic field, however, it is more environmentally friendly. The magnetic hyperfine parameters and the isomer shift values for CoFe2O4 and ZnFe2O4 showed strong internal magnetic fields and the obtained values are consistent with spinel structure. The oxidation state of Fe was observed to be Fe3+. Due to the low coercivity and high magnetization values, these particles could be considered as potential candidates for oil spill cleanup. These desirable magnetic properties will improve the recyclability of the nanoparticles using low applied magnetic fields.
Critical Appraisal of Curriculum Design of Academic Courses Launched Under the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University) in Academic Year 2020-2021 with Reference to Typing of the Said Courses And Adherence to the Principles of Curriculum Design – A Study Protocol
Authors: Mishra Gaurav , Dhok Archana , Dhande Rajasbala , Singh Rohan , Patwa Prerna
Published: February 2022

Background: Talking about the present scenario of curricula, it is essential to test whether curricula are in conformity with the standard guidelines and principles of curriculum design and centricity and orientation.

This present study deals with aspect of adherence to principles of curriculum design as well as centricity and orientation of the curricular framework with reference to curricula of all academic courses under Allied Health Sciences started in the academic year 2020-2021 in Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (deemed to be university) as against principles of curriculum design and centricity of curricula.

Aim and Objectives: To critically appraise the curriculum of academic courses launched under the faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Datta Meghe Institute Of Medical Sciences (deemed to be university) in academic year 2020-2021 with reference to typing of the said courses and adherence to the principles of curriculum design.

Methods:-

Type of Study: Descriptive study.

Duration of Study: 6 months.

Place of Study: School of Health Professions Education and Research Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha.

Generation of a draft of the curriculum of academic courses included in the present study with reference to their typing and also taking into account the level and degree of commensuration of the same with principles of curriculum design along with recommendations if any.

Conclusion: All conclusions in conformity with the aim and objectives of the present study will be drawn after proper statistical analysis.
Effects of Genetically Modified Animals on Human Activities and Ecosystem
Authors: Prasad Neelkant , Singh Manvi
Published: February 2022

The first transgenic animals was mice which are now still the transgenic organisms most commonly used. There are various strategies in place for transferring foreign genes to the specific organisms. Transgenic organisms were used to study the gene and biological functions primarily for basic research. Transgenic animals may also be important models for researching human and animal diseases, and for developing new medicines. Transgenics can also be the source of both human and medicinal organs and cells. Transgenesis’ effect on developing animals for both the production of food and feed is still non-existent but is anticipated to become a fact in the coming months. A few transgenic animals were obtained and marketed. The use of the transgenic animals poses some welfare issues, and the EU has established specific regulations. Transgenesis in animals already impacts human activities and people’s perception of the living organisms. The techniques accessible make it possible for transgenic human generation. Until now, this was not done or suggested. The human effects of transgenesis may be enormous. There are theoretical and ethical discussions under way on this subject.
Postpartum Vitamin-D Deficiency and its Relations with Sociodemographic Factors
Authors: Choudhary Amruta , Deshmukh Snehal , Ambad Ranjit , Inamdar Saunetra , Jha Roshan Kumar
Published: February 2022

Background: Deficiency of Vitamin D or 25(OH) cholecalciferol is a severe health problem worldwide. Vitamin D is essential for calcium and bone metabolism and protects against various autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular diseases, chronic infections, cancers, and infertility. It also plays a vital role in pregnancy. During pregnancy, the fetus acquires their vitamin D from their mother and r the first few months of life after delivery, particularly in breastfed infants. Deficiency of Vitamin D in infants can lead to rickets, respiratory infections, allergic diseases, heart failure.

Aims and Objective: To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the postpartum period and to study its relation with the sociodemographic characteristics of the patients.

Materials and Methods: This was cross-sectional observational study was conducted over one year. Sociodemographic characters and serum concentrations of vitamin D in the 25(OH)D were compared.

Results: To a total of 550 patients were enrolled. The mean age of patients was 26.5 years, around 58% of patients were from the peri-urban area, maximum number of patients were primiparous. Around 90% of patients did not have any sun exposure on a regular basis. Around 59% of enrolled patients were either unbooked or had only one antenatal visit. The mean plasma concentration of 25(OH)D in postpartum patients was 27.6ng/mL. No association was found between sociodemographic factors studied and vitamin D concentration.

Conclusion: This study showed the higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in India's postpartum patients despite having abundant sunlight and identifies the need for supplementation of vitamin D in pregnancy and postpartum. This supplementation has to be followed routinely in hospitals in obstetric management protocol.
In vivo and In vitro Anti Oxidant Activity of Ethanolic Extraction of Justicia gendarussa Burm Leaves
Authors: Surwase Ulhas Shrimant , Patil Shivanand Malkappa
Published: February 2022

Oxidation is very essential to many living organisms for the production of energy to fuel biological processes. The free radicals and other reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are continuously, produced in vivo, responsible for oxidation. The aim of the present study was to investigate in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potential of ethanolic extraction of justicia gendarussa burm leaves [EEJG]. The study was done by using various in vitro and In vivo methods such as Hydroxyl Radical scavenging activity, Determination of Reducing Power, Metal chelating activity, Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced lipid peroxidation and Inhibitory Test on Protein Oxidative Modification and in vivo Lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione and Catalase was studied. The ethyl acetate extract showed the highest total phenolic content and total flavonoid content among other extracts of justicia gendarussa burm leaves. The percentage inhibition and IC50 value of all the extracts were followed dose-dependency and found significant (P < 0.01) as compared to standard (ascorbic acid). The oxidative stress markers as Lipid peroxidation (LPO) (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were increased significantly (P < 0.01) at 250 and 500 mg/kg of EEJG treated animals and decreased significantly the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARS] level at 500 mg/kg of EEJG as compared to control group. These results revealed that the ethanol extract of Justicia gendarussa burm leaves exhibits both In vitro antioxidant activity against DPPH and In vivo antioxidant activity by modulating brain enzymes in the rat. This could be further correlated with its potential to neuroprotective activity due to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic contents in the extract.
Evaluation of Genoprotective Activity of Indigofera tinctoria using Allium cepa Root
Authors: Prabhu N. , Harshini D. , Gowsalya A. , Rekha J. , Rajamehala M. , Karthick P. Jeyavel , Gajendran T.
Published: February 2022

The principle reason for the examination article is to assess the genoprotective action of the herbal source leaves extract of Indigofera tinctoria against insecticidal such as transfluthrin using Allium cepa as a biomarker. Indigofera tinctoria has the potential secondary metabolites, inorganic elements in phytochemical screening and different functional groups also. So that It possesses excellent anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, antitumor, anti mycobacterial, mosquitocidal, immunostimulatory properties. Normally for mutation, chemotherapy and radiation treatments are used. Here we used herbal remedy as Indigofera tinctoria against transfluthrin by using Allium cepa as a biomarker and the mitotic record and DNA discontinuity likewise determined. It contains high amount of secondary metabolites, inorganic elements and functional groups. The mitotic index remains exactly same at before and after treatment by calculating the number of roots and its length in segments like dividing and non-dividing cells. We concluded that Indigofera tinctoria repaired the mutation act against insecticidal transfluthrin. So it acts as an excellent mutant repair mechanism against insecticidal.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Endodontic Management
Authors: Anees Fharreeha Fathima , Premavathy Dinesh
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Root canal treatment is a sequence of treating infected pulp of the tooth which is intended to result in elimination of infection and protecting and restoring the tooth from future microbial invasion.

Aim: The aim of the present study is to create awareness among outpatients on the advantages and disadvantages in before and after root canal treatment.

Materials and Methods: The questionnaire based survey was conducted among 101 patients in Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals. The participants range from 20-56 years above Main objective of performing root canal treatment is to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal system/ remove the inflamed pulp tissue and close it with biological material. Root canal treatment done well then regardless of the number of visits, will create a favorable environment for healing.

Results: The observed results in the present study were depicted in pie charts and results were analysed using SPSS.

Conclusion: The recent advances in endodontics technology attract dental material a lot as they complete the root canal treatment in a couple of days periapical tissue undergoes a lot of changes.
Effect of Mouthwashes and Brushing Simulation on the Surface Roughness of a Bulk Filled Composite Resin - An in vitro Study
Authors: Pradeep Rajasri , Ganesh S. Balaji
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Dental caries is one of the most common chronic diseases seen in the world and it’s restoration is one among the most common procedures done by dentists throughout. In this article the influence of mouthwashes and simulated tooth brushing on the surface roughness of a bulk filled composite resin is checked. The aim of the study is to analyse the effect of mouthwashes and brushing simulation on the surface roughness of a bulk filled composite resin.

Materials and Methods: The present study was an in vitro study conducted in a university dental hospital located in Chennai. The bulk fill composite resin (ivoclar vivadent brand) was manipulated into putty moulds. The specimens were divided into two groups, group 1 and group 2. Two mouthwashes were selected namely chlorhexidine gluconate and betadine 2%. Group 1 was subjected to immersion in chlorhexidine gluconate and group 2 was subjected to immersion in betadine. Ra, Rq and Rz surface roughness values of these specimens was calculated before immersion in mouthwash. The brushing was performed, with a dentifrice slurry (Colgate and distilled water). Each specimen was subjected to toothbrushing with a soft toothbrush. The specimens underwent 1000 cycles of brushing after which the surface roughness analysis was performed. Toothbrush simulator ZM 3.8 and a stylus profilometer (Mitutoyo SJ-310) was used. For statistical analysis, independent sample t test using SPSS statistics version 22.0 was done.

Results: The mean value of group 1 Ra and group 2 Ra was 0.030 and the p value was 0.000. The mean value of group 1 Rq and group 2 Rq was 0.0239 and 0.0215 respectively and the p value was found out to be 0.134. The mean value of group 1 Rz and group 2 Rz was 0.0030 and 0.0035 respectively and the p value was found to be 0.033. There was no significant changes in surface roughness values between the groups after brushing simulation.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, we found that composite resin samples immersed in chlorhexidine and povidone iodine mouthwash had similar surface roughness values after brushing simulation.
Improving Diagnostic and Eliminating Techniques of Bovine Leukemia in the Russian Federation
Authors: Donnik Irina , Ponomareva Olga , Chernykh Oleg , Lysenko Alexander , Mikailov Mikail , Gunashev Shakhrudin , Yanikova Elmira , Lemiasheuski Viktar
Published: February 2022

Leukemia occupies a leading place in the structure of infectious diseases of cattle, as it causes significant economic damage to livestock and poses a serious social danger. The dynamics of infection with the bovine leukemia virus (LV) have been studied in the Krasnodar Territory for ten years. A decrease in the level of infection of animals with the bovine leukemia virus was noted at livestock enterprises in the public sector and in breeding farms. In the individual sector, due to an imperfect animal insurance system, farmers try to keep IDT+ animals on their farms. Some progress in reducing the infection of cattle with the leukemia virus in the Krasnodar Territory has been achieved through a whole range of measures. This includes the publication of relevant regulations governing the solution of this problem by the state and regional authorities, the coordination of recreational activities by scientists of the Russian Academy of Sciences and employees of the Department of Veterinary Medicine, propaganda work among the population and heads of livestock enterprises, and the introduction by veterinary specialists of modern methods of the early diagnosis of bovine leukemia virus. The order of the Ministry of Agriculture No. 156 dated 03/24/2021 became a timely document to reduce the time of the recovery of cattle from leukemia in Russia. It significantly tightens the requirements to the terms of recovery, regulates the introduction of new methods of the early diagnosis of leukemia. As a part of the implementation of the research topic, the authors proposed a new diagnostic kit for the detection of bovine LV provirus in finished dairy products, which makes it possible to accelerate the identification of infected animals in farms that supply products to dairy plants, and in general, accelerates the elimination of leukemia in Russia.
Autism and Related Syndromes
Authors: Dhabale Anushka
Published: February 2022

This review summarize that autism is a complicated disorder that develops from the union of chromosomal and environmental factors by fundamental discoveries from the genetic and epidemiological research departments. Specific alleles identification has contributed significantly to the autism puzzle. As centers to the centers for disease-based control and prevention(CDC), ASD is diagnosed more in boys than girls. This neurobehavioural disorder is usually seen by the age of 3 years. Intense difficulties in social interaction and communication with other people, restricted interests, stereotyped responses to situations, and other repetitive morphological patterns of behavior are symptoms or signs related to autism. Complicated, multigenic interactivity and practicable environmental offerings are to be involved by Etiology. For more distant comprehension of the complicated etiology for autism, research fixating on the consequence of gene by gene interactivities or genetic vulnerability to detrimental environmental challenges can be mentioned. The mouse model system uses environmental challenges to divergent gene expression and cell pathology as early in development and supplies an efficient way to manipulate candidate or constituent genes for autism susceptibility experimentally.
Design Method of Internal Structure Based on Dynamic Characteristic Analysis of 2.5ton Military Vehicle
Authors: Yang Ina , Choi Wookyun , Jung Kyongwook , Shim Donghyouk , Son Donghyeop
Published: February 2022

Electronic equipment mounted on military vehicles is exposed to external shocks and vibrations. This causes problems in tactical operation and also causes cost loss in equipment maintenance. Therefore, to optimize the test standards for military vehicles with vibration, dynamic characteristics should be analyzed and standardized through actual driving tests. In this paper, the internal structure of 2.5tons military vehicle is designed in the form of a drawer and lathe, and the dynamic characteristics are identified by experiment, and the design is proposed.
Mechanism of translational initiation in prokaryotes
Authors: Canonaco Maria A. , Calogero Raffaele A. , Gualerzi Claudio O.
Published: July 2002

Initiation factor IF2 from either Escherichia coli or Bacillus stearothermophilus was found to possess the previously undetected property of stimulating the template‐dependent ribosomal binding of aminoacyl‐tRNAs with free α‐NH2 groups. IF1, which had no detectable activity alone, was found to stimulate the activity of E. coli IF2 and, to a lesser extent, that of B. stearothermophilus IF2. Since in the absence of ribosomes not even a weak interaction between the two IF2 molecules and the aminoacyl‐tRNAs was detected, the present findings indicate that IF2 can act at the ribosomal level stimulating aminoacyl‐tRNA binding without prior formation of a binary complex with the aminoacyl‐tRNA. IF2 does not appear to open or strengthen a weak A‐site binding, but rather to enhance aminoacyl‐tRNA binding to a 30 S site equivalent to the P‐site by slowing down the rate of aminoacyl‐tRNA dissociation from ribosomes.
Recombinant expression and domain structure of the Rna1 protein from Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Haberland Jörg , Gerke Volker
Published: July 2002

The amino acid sequence of Rna1p, a yeast protein implicated in the maturation and/or nucleocytoplasmic transport of RNA, is characterised by the presence of eight leucine‐rich repeats (LLRs) as well as two intervening repeats of a different type and a highly acidic C‐terminal region. Limited proteolysis of purified Rna1p expressed recombinantly in bacteria reveals that the C‐terminal extension but not the region containing the two types of repeats is highly accessible to proteolytic attack and that the C‐terminal region most likely harbours (a) low affinity Ca2+‐binding site(s). These results are indicative of the domain structure of the Rna1p molecule, with the repeats and the C‐terminal region being accessible for different interactions.
Inhibition of 20‐kDa myosin light chain exchange by monoclonal antibodies against 17‐kDa myosin light chain
Authors: Higashihara Masaaki , Ikebe Mitsuo
Published: July 2002

Two anti‐17,000 Da myosin light chain (LC17) monoclonal antibodies (MM2 and MM10), which increase the actin‐activated Mg2+‐ATPase activity of dephosphorylated smooth muscle myosin, inhibited the exchange of the 20,000 Da regulatory light chain of myosin (LC20). MM2, which shows higher potency of activation of ATPase activity, inhibited the exchange more extensively than MM10, suggesting that there is a correlation between the activation of ATPase activity and the inhibition of the LC20 exchange. The inhibition of the exchange was observed for intact myosin and heavy meromyosin but not subfragment 1, suggesting that the heavy chain at the head—rod junction is involved in the inhibition of LC20 exchange by anti‐LC17 antibodies. Alternatively, the interaction between the two heads of the myosin molecule may influence the inhibition of LC20 exchange. These results suggest that LC20 interacts with both LC17 and the heavy chain, and the interaction between LC20 and LC17 is involved in the activation of actin‐activated ATPase activity of smooth muscle myosin.
Thrombospondin 1 binds to the surface of bovine articular chondrocytes by a linear RGD‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Miller Raymond R. , McDevitt Cahir A.
Published: July 2002

Thrombospondin 1 is present in articular cartilage and is synthesized by chondrocytes. Adult bovine articular chondrocytes in serum‐free medium were evaluated in a solid‐phase assay for their ability to attach to thrombospondin 1 isolated from human platelets. The chondrocytes attached to the thrombospondin 1 by a mechanism that was inhibited by a synthetic linear GRGDSP but not a GRGESP peptide. The cells, however, did not spread on thrombospondin 1, but did spread on fibronectin and Pep‐Tite 2000, a synthetic RGD‐containing peptide. Preincubation of thrombospondin 1 with EDTA irreversibly inhibited its capacity to attach to chondrocytes. We conclude that thrombospondin 1 binds to chondrocytes by its RGD sequence.
Requirement of the two‐headed structure for the phosphorylation dependent regulation of smooth muscle myosin
Authors: Matsu-ura Motoi , Ikebe Mitsuo
Published: July 2002

It is known for smooth muscle myosin that while acto‐HMM ATPase activity is regulated by phosphorylation, acto‐S‐1 ATPase activity is not regulated. To clarify the heavy chain structure required for the regulation, smooth muscle myosin containing 7 different lengths of the S‐2 portion were expressed in Sf9 insect cells using Baculovirus expression system. Myosin containing longer than 991 residues of heavy chain formed a stable two‐headed structure while myosin with shorter than 944 residues of heavy chain formed a single‐headed structure, indicating that the residues Gln945‐Asp991 are critical for the fomation of the two‐headed structure. The actin activated ATPase activity of myosin mutants having a two‐headed structure was activated by phosphorylation while that of myosin mutants that failed to form the two‐headed structure was completely independent of phosphorylation. These results suggest that the two‐headed structure is critical for the phosphorylation‐dependent regulation.
Alterations in protein synthesis induced by C2 toxin in 3T3 cells
Authors: Sklyarova Tatyana , Kostyukovski Vladimir , Sharov Vadim , Prisyazhnoy Victor , Denisenko Oleg
Published: July 2002

We have studied the effect of actin skeleton depolymerisation induced by C2 toxin on protein synthesis in 3T3 cells. The toxin that was purified from culture medium of Clostridium botulinum type C was shown to specifically ADP‐ribosylate actin in vitro and in vivo. Cells exposed to C2 toxin were rounded off, which was accompanied by disappearance of stress fibers. The rate of total protein synthesis decreased two‐three times in the treated cells. This correlated with the reduction in amount of polyribosomes. The rates of specific protein synthesis were compared using 2D electrophoresis of pulse‐labeled proteins. Dramatic changes were observed in the synthesis of a small group of cellular proteins. Our results indicate that actin filament depolymerization affects gene expression at the level of translation and/or through the control of mRNA concentrations.
Stimulation of glycogen phosphorylase in rat hepatocytes via prostanoid release from Kupffer cells by recombinant rat anaphylatoxin C5a but not by native human C5a in hepatocyte/Kupffer cell co‐cultures
Authors: Hespeling Ursula , Püschel Gerhard P. , Jungermann Kurt , Götze Otto , Zwirner Jörg
Published: July 2002

Human anaphylatoxin C3a had previously been shown to increase glycogenolysis in perfused rat liver and prostanoid formation in rat liver macrophages. Surprisingly, human C5a, which in other systems elicited stronger responses than C3a, did not increase glycogenolysis in perfused rat liver. Species incompatibilities within the experimental system had been supposed to be the reason. The current study supports this hypothesis: (1) In rat liver macrophages that had been maintained in primary culture for 72 h recombinant rat anaphylatoxin C5a in concentrations between 0.1 and 10 μg/ml increased the formation of thromboxane A2, prostaglandin D2, E2 and F2α 6‐ to 12‐fold over basal within 10 min. In contrast, human anaphylatoxin C5a did not increase prostanoid formation in rat Kupffer cells. (2) The increase in prostanoid formation by recombinant rat C5a was specific. It was inhibited by a neutralizing monoclonal antibody. (3) In co‐cultures of rat hepatocytes and rat Kupffer cells but not in hepatocyte mono‐cultures recombinant rat C5a increased glycogen phosphorylase activity 3‐fold over basal. This effect was inhibited by incubation of the co‐cultures with 500 μM acetylsalicyclic acid. Thus, C5a generated either locally in the liver or systemically e.g. in the course of sepsis, may increase hepatic glycogenolysis by a prostanoid‐mediated intercellular communication between Kupffer cells and hepatocytes.
Interaction of p85 subunit of PI 3‐kinase with insulin and IGF‐1 receptors analysed by using the two‐hybrid system
Authors: Lamothe B. , Bucchini D. , Jami J. , Joshi R.L.
Published: July 2002

Interaction of the p85 subunit of PI 3‐kinase with the insulin receptor (IR) and the IGF‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) was investigated using the two‐hybrid system by assessing for his3 and lacZ activation in S. cerevisiae. The experiments were performed with the cytoplasmic β domain (wild type or mutated) of IR and IGF‐1R and p85 or its subdomains (N + C‐SH2, N‐SH2, C‐SH2, SH3 + N‐SH2). The results of his3 activation indicated that p85, N + C‐SH2 and C‐SH2 interact with both IRβ and IGF‐1Rβ, whereas N‐SH2 and SH3 + N‐SH2 interact only with IRβ. Interaction of p85 and N + C‐SH2 with IRβ(ΔC‐43) or IGF‐1Rβ(ΔC‐43) in which the C‐terminal 43 amino acids (including the YXXM motif) were deleted, persisted. The internal binding site thus revealed was not altered by further mutating Y960/F for IR or Y950/F for IGF‐1R. Activation of lacZ upon interaction of p85 with IRβ(ΔC‐43) was 4‐fold less as compared to IRβ. This activation with p85 and IGF‐1Rβ was 4‐fold less as compared to IRβ and was somewhat increased (2‐fold) for IGE‐1Rβ(ΔC‐43). Thus, the C‐terminal domain in IGF‐1R appears to exert a negative control on binding of p85 thereby providing a possible regulatory mechanism for direct activation of the PI 3‐kinase pathway.
Involvement of SH2‐SH2‐SH3 domain of phospholipase Cγ1 in NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Kim Bo-Yeon , Kang Dae-Ook , Oh Won-Keun , Kim Jin-Hee , Choi Yong-Kyung , Jang Jong-Soo , Suh Pann-Ghill , Ryu Sung-Ho , Mheen Tae-Ick , Ahn Jong-Seog
Published: July 2002

To directly define the role of phospholipase Cγ1 (PLCγ1) in NF‐κB activation, NF‐κB promoted luciferase reporter gene plasmid (pNF‐κB‐Luc) was transfected into rat‐3Y1 fibroblasts that overexpress whole PLCγ1 (PLCγ1‐3Y1), src homology domains SH2‐SH2‐SH3 of PLCγ1 (SH223‐3Y1) and v‐src (Src‐3Y1). Transient transfection with pNF‐κB‐Luc remarkably increased the luciferase activity in all three transformants compared with normal rat‐3Y1 cells. Pretreatment with inhibitors of protein tyrosine kinase reduced this increase in luciferase activity, but U73122 (a PLC inhibitor) did not. While PD98059, an inhibitor of mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK), significantly reduced the luciferase activity, there was no effect by wortmannin and Ro‐31‐8220, inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase C (PKC), respectively. This study shows a direct evidence that the SH2‐SH2‐SH3 region of PLCγ1 contributes to the NF‐κB signaling and that MAPK, but not PI3K and PKC, is involved in SH2‐SH2‐SH3 mediated NF‐κB activation in these cells.
Binding, annealing and strand exchange between oligonucleotides in different sites of the RecA protein filament
Authors: Volodin Alexander A , Smirnova Helen A , Bocharova Tatjana N
Published: July 2002

The efficiency of single‐stranded (ss) oligonucleotides binding at the secondary site of the RecA protein filament is demonstrated to depend on the strandedness of DNA bound at the primary site. When the primary site is occupied by a ss‐oligonucleotide, the binding of another ss‐oligonucleotide at the secondary site is characterized by higher affinity and a lower rate of dissociation than is the case when the primary site is occupied by a double‐stranded oligonucleotide. In contrast to a DNA strand exchange reaction suppressed by a heterologous oligonucleotide bound at the secondary site of the RecA filament, the occupation of the secondary site by a heterologous oligonucleotide does not prevent renaturation between the oligonucleotides bound at the primary site and complementary oligonucleotides from solution demonstrating that the binding of a DNA strand in the secondary site is not a necessary intermediate step in RecA‐promoted DNA renaturation.
TSH regulates a gene expression encoding ERp29, an endoplasmic reticulum stress protein, in the thyrocytes of FRTL‐5 cells
Authors: Kwon O-Yu , Park Soojung , Lee Woonghee , You Kwan-Hee , Kim Ho , Shong Minho
Published: July 2002

This experiment was performed to evaluate the effect of thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) on the endoplasmic reticulum resident 29 kDa protein (ERp29) gene expression in the thyrocytes of FRTL‐5 cells. Although ERp29 mRNA was constantly expressed, its expression began to increase remarkably from 10−9 M TSH. On the other hand, the effect of TSH on the abundance of ERp29 mRNA started within 6 h and peaked at 8 h. Actinomycin D strongly blocked this effect while cycloheximide did not. The half‐life of ERp29 mRNA was about 4–4.5 h in the presence or absence of TSH that was not affected by the stability of ERp29 mRNA. The effect of TSH on the ERp29 gene expression was specific, while other growth factors (transferrin, insulin and hydrocortisone) did not alter its expression. Our data indicate for the first time that the expression of ERp29 is regulated transcriptionally by TSH in thyrocytes.
5‐Methyldeoxycytidine monophosphate deaminase and 5‐methylcytidyl‐DNA deaminase activities are present in human mature sperm cells
Authors: Jost Jean-Pierre , Thiry Stéphane , Siegmann Michel
Published: July 2002

Human mature sperm cells have a high nuclease and 5‐methyldeoxycytidine monophosphate (5‐mdCMP) deaminase activity. The deaminase converts the nuclease degradation product 5‐mdCMP into dTMP which is further cleaved into thymine and the abasic sugar‐phosphate. Both 5‐methylcytidine 5′ and 3′ monophosphates are good substrates for the deaminase. 5‐methylcytidine is not a good deaminase substrate and 5‐methylcytosine (5mC) is not a substrate. A purified fraction of the deaminase free of nucleases deaminates 5mC present in intact methylated double‐stranded DNA. 5‐mdCMP deaminase co‐purifies on SDS–PAGE with dCMP deaminase and has an apparent molecular weight of 25 kDa. The enzyme requires no divalent cations and has a K
m of 1.4×10−7 M for 5‐mdCMP and a V
max of 7×10−11 mol/h/μg protein. The possible biological implications of the deaminase's activities in the present system are discussed.
Consumption of C4b-binding protein (C4BP) duringin vivoactivation of the classical complement pathway
Authors: BERGAMASCHINI L , MIEDICO A , CICARDI M , COPPOLA R , FAIONI E N , AGOSTONI A
Published: July 2002

C4BP has a central role in regulating the classical complement (C′) pathway, but it is still uncertain whether or not it is consumed during in vivo complement activation. Attempts to demonstrate changes in C4BP plasma levels in systemic lupus erythematosus and essential mixed cryoglobulinaemia have failed, probably due to up-regulation of this protein during the inflammatory reaction. We have studied one patient with severe post-transfusion complement-mediated anaphylaxis (CMA), and 67 patients with hereditary C1 inhibitor deficiency (hereditary angioedema (HAE)). The first of these two conditions is characterized by the absence of systemic inflammatory reaction and the second by acute and chronic activation of the C′ classical pathway. C4BP, C4BP–C4b complex, and soluble terminal C′ complex (sC5b-9) were measured in the patients' plasmas by ELISA techniques and C3a and C4a by radioimmunoassays. In CMA, 15 min after the transfusion, there was a massive C′ activation, with increases in C4a, C3a, sC5b-9, C4BP–C4b complexes and decreases in C4, C3 and C4BP. All parameters reverted to preinfusion values within 24 h. Depletion of C4 was correlated with that of C4BP. In patients with HAE, the median value of C4BP (83% range 54–165) was significantly lower (P < 0.0001) than in normal controls (99% range 70–159), with no difference between patients in remission or during acute attacks. C4BP–C4b complexes could not be detected in HAE patients. The results of this study indicate that C4BP is consumed in vivo during acute, and possibly during chronic activation of the C′ classical pathway, and that this protein, after interaction with C4b, not longer circulates in plasma.
Novel semiconductor substrate formed by hydrogen ion implantation into silicon
Authors: Li Jianming
Published: July 2002

A high-resistivity layer formed beneath the silicon surface layer by using proton implantation and two-step annealing is described. Rapid thermal annealing with tungsten halogen lamps was carried out during the first annealing step and the time of the high-temperature treatment in the second annealing step was comparatively long. Experiments show that the quality of the top layer has been improved with the increase in surface Hall mobility of ∼25%. This novel semiconductor will likely be a new material for the manufacture of very high speed integrated circuits.
Superconducting magnetometer
Authors: Kim B. F. , Bohandy J. , Adrian F. J. , Moorjani K.
Published: July 2002

A novel method for measurement of magnetic field, based upon magnetically modulated resistance in superconductors, is described and demonstrated with microwave absorption data in a Bi0.9Pb0.1SrCaCu2Ox sample. The method can be implemented as a vector magnetometer and, with suitable superconductors, could provide absolute magnetic field measurements.
Role of i
n s
i
t
u rapid isothermal processing in the solid phase epitaxial growth of II-A fluoride films on (100) and (111) InP
Authors: Singh R. , Thakur R. P. S. , Kumar A. , Chou P. , Narayan J.
Published: July 2002

Rapid isothermal processing based on incoherent sources of light is emerging as a reduced thermal budget processing technique for the fabrication of next generation of semiconductor devices and circuits. In this letter, we show that integration of the rapid isothermal processing unit and the ultrahigh vacuum deposition system provides an in situ rapid isothermal processing capability for the solid phase epitaxial growth of SrF2 and BaF2 films on (100) and (111)InP. We also show that neither as-deposited nor ex situ annealed films show solid phase epitaxial growth.
Residual strain in epitaxially grown ZnSe/GaAs studied by two-photon absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Minami Fujio , Kato Yukio , Yoshida Kouji , Inoue Kuon , Era Koh
Published: July 2002

We apply two-photon absorption spectroscopy as a novel tool to study residual strain in ZnSe epitaxial layers grown on GaAs substrates. Taking advantage of the polarization selection rules, we find that ZnSe layers thicker than 2 μm suffer in-plane tensile strain of the order of 10−4. Deformation potential for the ZnSe layer is determined directly from two-photon data to high accuracy.
Quantum wire and dot formation by chemical vapor deposition and molecular layer deposition of one-dimensional conjugated polymer
Authors: Yoshimura Tetsuzo , Tatsuura Satoshi , Sotoyama Wataru , Matsuura Azuma , Hayano Tomoaki
Published: July 2002

Using the reaction between two types of molecules, I [terephthalaldehyde (TPA)] and II [p-phenylenediamine (PPDA), 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether (DDE), 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl sulfide (DDS), or 1,4-diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM)], we fabricate quantum wires and quantum dots by chemical vapor deposition. In the TPA/PPDA film, an exciton absorption peak occurs near 500 nm, indicating that long conjugated chains (quantum wire) are formed. In TPA/DDE, TPA/DDS, and TPA/DDM films, which have quantum dots consisting of three benzene rings separated by barriers of -O, -S-, and -CH2- bonds, blue shifts of the absorption band occur due to an electron confinement. We also demonstrate molecular layer deposition of the TPA/PPDA film.
Charge sensitivity of a single electron transistor
Authors: Hanke Ulrik , Galperin Yu. M. , Chao K. A.
Published: July 2002

The charge sensitivity of a capacitive-coupled single electron transistor (SET) has been investigated with analytical and numerical calculations. We found that by tuning the gate charge and the asymmetry of the conductances, the transconductance-to-noise ratio can be largely increased. With the present available fabrication technology, our theoretical analysis can serve as a guidance for optimizing the charge sensitivity of a SET.
Study of the effect of boron doping on the aging of micromachined silicon cantilevers
Authors: Pember Andrew , Smith Jim , Kemhadjian Henri
Published: July 2002

Micromachined silicon cantilevers have been prepared using anisotropic etching in conjunction with boron doping. They were driven into resonant vibration for periods of over 2000 h and their natural frequencies and quality factors were recorded as a function of aging time. It has been found that aging has occurred in all of the samples tested and this was manifest as an increase in the quality factor and a small decrease in resonant frequency, with both values eventually stabilizing. The magnitude of this effect was found to increase with increasing levels of boron doping within the structures. The mechanism of aging is not clear but may be linked to dislocation damage and activity of interstitial boron with the crystals.
Variable-period electrostatic and magnetostatic undulator designs for generating polarized soft x rays at PEP
Authors: Tatchyn Roman
Published: July 2002

It can been shown that the generation of soft x rays on high energy storage rings such as PEP is most effectively performed with low-field, variable-period insertion devices, in contrast to the fixed-period devices represented by conventional transverse magnetostatic (TM) technology. Moreover, variable-period undulators of arbitrary field strength can be shown to be preferable to variable-gap devices under all circumstances where the generation of excessive superfluous power is undesirable, or where the available range of tuning with a single device must be maximized. In this article, basic arguments for these claims are presented, and an electrostatic implementation of a variable-period polarizing undulator is described. Some attractive properties of a recently designed, higher-field magnetostatic analog of the electrostatic device are also mentioned.
Design and construction of an epifluorescence microscopic surface balance for the study of lipid monolayer phase transitions
Authors: Nag Kaushik , Boland Carl , Rich Nathan H. , Keough Kevin M. W.
Published: July 2002

An instrumental design and construction details for the study of lipid monomolecular layers at the air-water interface using optical recording of fluorescent probes in the monolayer are discussed. The balance consists of a Teflon trough with a movable barrier mounted on a vibration-reducing platform. It is equipped with an epifluorescence microscopic attachment, and a Wilhelmy dipping plate connected to a force transducer that measures surface tension in the monolayer. Computer-controlled barrier movement can be utilized to give monolayer compression and expansion cycles at speeds up to 4 Å2/molecule/s. The epifluorescence microscope is coupled to a charge coupled device in tandem with a microchannel plate which permits observations at low light levels. This allows for use of small concentrations of probe molecules, thus reducing perturbation of monolayer properties by the probe. Images are recorded on videotape, digitized, and processed using operator-interactive software. Preliminary studies of phase behavior have been made for monolayers of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine and a mixture of lipids.