bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Untargeted Pixel-by-Pixel Imaging of Metabolite Ratio Pairs as a Novel Tool for Biomedical Discovery in Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Authors: Cheng Huiyong , Miller Dawson , Southwell Nneka , Porcari Paola , Fischer Joshua L , Taylor Isobel , Salbaum J Michael , Kappen Claudia , Hu Fenghua , Yang Cha , Keshari Kayvan R , Gross Steven S , D’Aurelio Marilena , Chen Qiuying
Published: February 2025

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is a powerful technology used to define the spatial distribution and relative abundance of metabolites across tissue cryosections. While software packages exist for pixel-by-pixel individual metabolite and limited target pairs of ratio imaging, the research community lacks an easy computing and application tool that images any metabolite abundance ratio pairs. Importantly, recognition of correlated metabolite pairs may contribute to the discovery of unanticipated molecules in shared metabolic pathways. Here, we describe the development and implementation of an untargeted R package workflow for pixel-by-pixel ratio imaging of all metabolites detected in an MSI experiment. Considering untargeted MSI studies of murine brain and embryogenesis, we demonstrate that ratio imaging minimizes systematic data variation introduced by sample handling, markedly enhances spatial image contrast, and reveals previously unrecognized metabotype-distinct tissue regions. Furthermore, ratio imaging facilitates identification of novel regional biomarkers and provides anatomical information regarding spatial distribution of metabolite-linked biochemical pathways. The algorithm described herein is applicable to any MSI dataset containing spatial information for metabolites, peptides or proteins, offering a potent hypothesis generation tool to enhance knowledge obtained from current spatial metabolite profiling technologies.
Polarization-independent wideband meta-material rasorber with wide transmission window based on resistor loaded circular and split ring resonators
Authors: Kumar A. , Sen G. , Ghosh J.
Published: February 2025

A dual polarized with high absorption to right side and wide in-band transmission is proposed in this study. Our proposed design consists of four modified split ring resonators on the top layer and four lumped resistor of 150 Ω value is connected between them to absorb the incoming EM wave in the out-ofband frequency regime.The circular slotted cut on the lower layer is responsible for in-band transmission. The lower layer is behaving as a ground plane for out-of-band absorption and and passing a range of frequency for the transmission band. So, bottom layer is behave as a band-pass frequency selective surface filter. The design has an overall thickness of 0.18λ and a fractional bandwidth of approximately 113%. The entire design exhibits an insertion loss of 1.10 dB at the transmission band at around 5.93 GHz and exceeding 80% absorption from 2.8 GHz to 10.0 GHz. The proposed design is polarization insensitive due to its symmetrical design and angularly stable up to 45Åã for both both TE and TM polarization of wave. The novelty of the proposed design lies in its wide out-of-band absorption, wide in-band transmission, minimal thickness, high fractional bandwidth, good angular stability, cost-effectiveness, accessibility through the use of inexpensive materials for manufacture and simple design. To analyze the proposed rasorber, we have investigated the polarization behavior, surface current distribution and design other parameters. Lastly, the proposed structure has been constructed using PCB technology and validated in a semi-anechoic chamber. The simulated and measured responses exhibit a high degree of agreement.
Future climate-driven habitat loss and range shift of the Critically Endangered whitefin swellshark (Cephaloscyllium albipinnum)
Authors: Brown Kerry , Puschendorf Robert
Published: February 2025

Climate change is driving many species to shift their geographical ranges poleward to maintain their environmental niche. However, for endemic species with restricted ranges, like the Critically Endangered whitefin swellshark (Cephaloscyllium albipinnum), endemic to southeastern Australia, such dispersal may be limited. Nevertheless, there is a poor understanding of how C. albipinnum might spatially adjust its distribution in response to climate change or whether suitable refugia exist for this species in the future. Therefore, to address this gap, this study utilised maximum entropy (MaxEnt) modelling to determine the potential distribution of suitable habitat for C. albipinnum under present-day (2010–2020) climate conditions and for future conditions, under six shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP1-1.9, SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, SSP4-6.0 and SSP5-8.5) for the middle (2040–2050) and end (2090–2100) of the century. Under present-day conditions (2010–2020), our model predicted a core distribution of potentially suitable habitat for C. albipinnum within the Great Australian Bight (GAB), with benthic primary productivity and surface ocean temperature identified as key distribution drivers. However, under all SSP scenarios, future projections indicated an expected range shift of at least 72 km, up to 1,087 km in an east-southeast direction towards Tasmania (TAS). In all future climate scenarios (except SSP1-1.9 by 2100), suitable habitat is expected to decline, especially in the high-emission scenario (SSP5-8.5), which anticipates a loss of over 70% of suitable habitat. Consequently, all future climate scenarios (except SSP1-1.9 by 2100) projected a decrease in suitable habitat within a currently designated marine protected area (MPA). These losses ranged from 0.6% under SSP1-1.9 by 2050 to a substantial 89.7% loss in coverage under SSP5-8.5 by 2100, leaving just 2.5% of suitable habitat remaining within MPAs. With C. albipinnum already facing a high risk of extinction, these findings underscore its vulnerability to future climate change. Our results highlight the urgency of implementing adaptive conservation measures and management strategies that consider the impacts of climate change on this species.
Shock cardiogénico: evolución conforme al sexo en América Latina
Authors: Thiele Hölger
Published: February 2025

El shock cardiogénico sigue siendo la causa de muerte más importante en los pacientes hospitalizados por infarto agudo de miocardio. Cuando no se dispone de evidencia suficiente y la mortalidad sigue siendo elevada, la evidencia procedente de datos observacionales es importante y se suma a los datos aleatorizados. Esto se aplica sobre todo a las diferencias específicas en cuanto al sexo en el shock
cardiogénico, ya que las mujeres suelen estar subrepresentadas en los ensayos controlados aleatorizados a gran escala. Por ello, sólo cabe apoyar la publicación del registro LATIN Shock. Este registro señala que no existen diferencias relevantes en los resultados del shock cardiogénico en función del sexo. Se deben dedicar más esfuerzos a los registros de shock cardiogénico. Asimismo, un número de pacientes mayor ayudará a definir las mejores estrategias de tratamiento para mejorar los resultados en el shock cardiogénico, también con respecto a las diferencias específicas por sexo.
Improving Website Usability with Design Thinking: A Case Study of BEM FMIPA Udayana University’s Website
Authors: Putra Ananda , Santiyasa I Wayan , Widiartha I Made , Darmawan I Dewa Made Bayu Atmaja
Published: February 2025

Aims: This study aims to implement the Design Thinking methodology in the development of the BEM Faculty of MIPA, Udayana University’s company profile website. The primary objective is to enhance user experience by addressing usability issues and improving accessibility, navigation, and overall functionality.
Study Design: This research adopts a user-centered design approach, utilizing the Design Thinking framework, which consists of five phases: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test.
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences,    Udayana University, over a period of five months.
Methodology: The research study adopts a case study design and employs mixed methods, combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The research began with a quantitative preliminary usability evaluation using the System Usability Scale (SUS), where the existing website received a score of 51.75 (ranked F), indicating significant usability issues. In the next phase, qualitative data was gathered through surveys, interviews, and literature studies to identify user pain points, particularly related to website navigation, design, and content accessibility. The insights from these qualitative methods informed the redesign of the website. Using the principles of Design Thinking, the website was restructured with an emphasis on an intuitive interface, improved information hierarchy, and enhanced interactivity. Finally, the redesigned website prototype was subjected to usability testing to evaluate improvements and gather both qualitative and quantitative feedback.
Results: The implementation of Design Thinking resulted in significant improvements in user satisfaction and website efficiency. The SUS score rose from 51.75 to 88.96, indicating a major increase in usability. Efficiency tests showed a 28.36% improvement, with users requiring fewer clicks to complete tasks. These results highlight the new website's enhanced intuitiveness, aesthetics, and alignment with user expectations.
Conclusion: The application of Design Thinking in website development successfully improved the usability and functionality of the BEM Faculty of MIPA company profile website. By adopting a user-centered approach, the redesigned website effectively addresses user needs, enhances accessibility, and provides a better overall experience. Future research may explore further refinements and the integration of advanced features to maintain long-term user engagement.
Using Sentinel 1A (SAR) and Sentinel 2 Data for Assessing Water Spread Dynamics and Crop Diversification in Lower Palar Sub Basin, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Pazhanivelan Sellaperumal , Vairavamani M. , Ragunath K.P. , Kumaraperumal R. , Sudarmanian N. S. , Manikandan S. , Satheesh S.
Published: February 2025

Sentinel-1A Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite is highly beneficial for continuously monitoring the evaluating changes in agricultural areas and water spread area assessment. Having reliable information about water availability is crucial for effective regional planning. By analyzing water spread dynamics using SAR satellite data at the tank level, farmers can access more accurate and timely information, aiding in crop planning locally and regionally and improving water management practices. Utilizing SAR satellite data to track water spread is essential for addressing these challenges and enhancing agricultural productivity. This approach allows stakeholders to make better decisions about water resource allocation, promoting sustainable agriculture and water conservation. This study focused on the water spread area in Lower Palar tanks by analyzing multi-temporal Sentinel-1A SAR data, linking it to rainfall and cropping pattern changes in and around the command areas. The years 2020-2023 showed increased water spread compared to 2018-2019, suggesting improved rainfall distribution and potential for year-round cropping using Northeast monsoon rainfall for subsequent seasons. The study applied Random Forest machine learning for crop classification across seasons using Sentinel-2 optical datasets, leveraging the algorithm's accuracy and efficient handling of large datasets to understand how water availability affects crop diversification in the Lower Palar Sub-Basin. The crop diversification confirmed through diversity index. The SID value of 0.59 was obtained in the Summer 2018, due to the even distribution of (n) number of crops like paddy, groundnut, sugarcane and watermelon. The lowest SID value (0.21) was observed in Rabi 2021 due to higher water spread and the adoption of mono cropping in larger areas.
Seed Health Techniques for Detection and Management of Alternaria spp. in Sesame
Authors: S. Madhusaisri , B. Rupesh Kumar Reddy , M. Pradeep , Bharathi.D
Published: February 2025

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is a vital oilseed crop, renowned for its high protein content, superior oil quality, and antioxidant properties, and is extensively cultivated across India and Asia. However, the productivity and quality of sesame are severely affected by Alternaria leaf spot, primarily caused by Alternaria sesami and Alternaria alternata. The disease leads to significant yield losses, as seed infection correlates directly with reduced germination, seedling stand, and crop yield, with losses ranging from 4% to 25% depending on the severity. Different stages of plant growth exhibit varying susceptibility, with the greatest vulnerability occurring in plants inoculated at 8 to 12 weeks. Furthermore, Alternaria species, including A. sesami and A. sesamicola, are major seed-borne pathogens, with infection levels as low as 2% potentially causing substantial losses. ; To manage these risks, a variety of seed treatment methods, including fungicides, biocontrol agents, and plant extracts, have been explored, demonstrating promising results in controlling disease incidence and improving seed quality (Bhattiprolu et al., 2023. Several seed health testing methods, including the standard blotter method, deep freezing blotter method, and PCR-based molecular techniques, offer effective means for detecting seed-borne Alternaria species. Molecular methods, particularly PCR and LAMP assays, provide rapid, sensitive, and specific detection of Alternaria species, enabling early diagnosis and better disease management. Additionally, serological methods like ELISA have shown potential in pathogen detection, although molecular techniques are preferred for their higher sensitivity and specificity. This review underscores the importance of effective monitoring and management strategies to mitigate the impact of Alternaria diseases on sesame production, highlighting the relevance of diverse diagnostic approaches in managing this crop pathogen.
New Approach Based on the Ensemble Learning Estimator to Maximize Accuracy
Authors: MABUMBI Lady NLANDU , KATALAY Pierre KAFUNDA , LUBANZADIO Richard KITONDUA , LUTUMBA Guylit KIALA , MBALA Gladys NABADIATA , KIALA Arnold KIALA WA , NTUMBA Grace PEMBELE , BYEMBA Valery LUKEKA , NDOMBELE Hugo KISOMBE , SALU Gédéon KANGA
Published: February 2025

The objective of this article is to contribute to the development and optimization of ensemble models in machine learning by proposing an innovative method based on homogeneous and heterogeneous families of algorithms. This approach aims to improve the model's generalization and reduce the bias-variance tradeoff, with the ambition of achieving more accurate and robust predictions.
To illustrate this approach, we rely on proven techniques such as Random Forest, which is based on the principle of Bagging (Bootstrap Aggregating) to reduce the model's variance, as well as AdaBoost and Gradient Boosting, which belong to the family of sequential ensemble methods that utilize dynamic weighting and gradient descent to progressively correct errors. Additionally, other approaches from supervised and unsupervised learning, such as Support Vector Machines (SVM) for classification, K-means for clustering, and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), enrich this algorithmic landscape.
The central idea of our method is to intelligently combine several ensemble models by applying strategies such as Stacking and Blending to optimize errors at each iteration and enhance the model's generalization capacity. As the saying goes, "unity is strength."
This maxim is particularly relevant in the context of building a hybrid machine learning model, as it highlights the importance of collaboration among different classes of algorithms to achieve optimal results. By integrating these various approaches under a unified architecture, we aspire to design a robust ensemble model capable of adapting to the complexity of big data and providing accurate and reliable predictions in a highly variable environment.
Phytochemical Profiling of Athimathura Chooranam a Polyherbal Formulation: A GC-MS Analysis
Authors: Rakshana  , Shalini  , Chitra
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Athimathura Choornam, a traditional Siddha formulation, has been employed for centuries to treat various ailments.
Aim: This study is aimed to investigate the phytochemical profile of Athimathura Choornam by using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis.
Methods: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was conducted on a Nexis GC 2030 MS AP 2020 NX instrument, by utilizing reagents including ethanol, concentrated sulfuric acid, concentrated nitric acid, and water. Sample preparation involved diluting 1g of sample in 50ml ethanol, followed by filtration using   helium gas as the carrier." 
Results: The GC-MS chromatogram revealed 10 bioactive compounds, including squalene compounds. The identified compunds are Alpha. Terpinyl acetate,(Terpenoid)1,3 Cyclohexadine, Benzene propanoic acid (belongs to Aromatic carboxylic acids),Butan 2 one(Ketones),2,4- decadienamide (amide group),2-[4-methyl-6(2,6,6-trimethyl cyclohex-1enyl)hexa-1,3,5-trienyl](belongs to Terpenoids,Sesquiterpenes),1-(4-hydroxy-3methoxyphenyl)dec-4-en-3one(Phenylalkanones), Retrofractamide-A (Belongs to alkaloids, amides and Peptides),5-hydroxy-1-(-4-hydroxy-3-methoxy phenyl)decan-3one (Phenylalkanones), squalene (Terpenes group). The compounds were identified by quantifying using peak area and internal standard methods. The results revealed the presence of therapeutically relevant compounds, by substantiating the traditional uses of Athimathura Choornam.
Conclusion: This study provides a capacious phytochemical profile of Athimathura Choornam, paving the way for further pharmacological and clinical investigations.
Wind Energy Potential in Nigeria: A Computational Study of Wind Turbine Performance
Authors: Moses Olawale Victor , Obomejero Justice , Moses Ayodeji Emmanuel , Adeyanju Opelopejesu Israel , Nsikan Kufre Akpan
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the potential of wind energy in Nigeria, focusing on the feasibility of wind turbine power generation using Sokoto State as a case study. Despite Nigeria's significant energy demand, the country currently generates a limited amount of wind power, relying primarily on natural gas and hydropower for electricity generation. With the national grid frequently facing outages and a large energy deficit, the exploration of alternative sources like wind energy has gained attention. This research employs the Enercon E-126 wind turbine model to evaluate power generation capacity using wind data from Sokoto in July and August 2023. The study calculates wind flow power, power efficiency ratios, and the installed capacity utilization factor (ICUF). The results indicate that while July experienced higher wind speeds (3.93 m/s), August had slightly lower speeds (2.74 m/s, a decrease of 30.3%) yet demonstrated a higher ICUF of 18.77%, an increase of 166% compared to July's ICUF of 7.06%. The research also considers the turbine's aerodynamic properties, such as lift and drag coefficients, which impact energy efficiency. To address the intermittency of wind energy, the study explores the potential of hybrid energy systems combining wind with solar or battery storage to ensure a stable power supply during low-wind periods. These findings suggest that wind energy can play a crucial role in addressing Nigeria's energy shortfall, particularly in regions with favorable wind conditions. The study calls for increased investment and policy support to integrate wind energy into Nigeria's renewable energy mix, contributing to a more sustainable power sector.
Nurse's Role In The Kidney Transplant Process: Integrative Review
Authors: André Andressa Patrícia Oliveira
Published: February 2025

The role of nurses in the context of kidney transplantation is a fundamental element for comprehensive and
effective patient care. The study aimed to identify nurses' care in the kidney transplant process. An integrative
review was carried out. The search took place in September 2023 in the databases: (MEDLINE); (LILACS),
(BDENF). The Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS ) and Medical Subject Headings ( MeSH ) were used:
(Chronic Renal Failure; Kidney Failure , Chronic ) AND ( Kidney Transplant ; Kidney Transplantation ) AND (
Nursing Care). The inclusion criteria were primary articles that addressed nurses' actions in the kidney
transplant process, published between 2018 and September 2023, in Portuguese, English and Spanish. The
exclusion criteria were: editorials, theses, dissertations, review articles and those that did not answer the
research question. 256 publications were identified and, after applying the exclusion criteria, 12 articles were
eligible for analysis. As a result, the findings highlight the importance of communication, precise protocols,
education, emotional support, personalized care and ongoing training to obtain more satisfactory clinical results
and provide a better quality of life for kidney transplant patients. In conclusion, it is recommended that further study of the implementation of standardized care protocols and the evaluation of their effectiveness in improving the quality of care for kidney transplant patients be carried out
Overproduction of the bleomycin‐binding proteins from bleomycin‐producing Streptomyces verticillus and a methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Escherichia coli and their immunological characterisation
Authors: Sugiyama Masanori , Kumagai Takanori , Matsuo Hiroaki , Alam Bhuiyan Zahurul , Ueda Kazuhiro , Mochizuki Hiroshi , Nakamura Norio , Davies Julian E
Published: July 2002

The bleomycin‐binding proteins designated BLMA and BLMS, which confer resistance to bleomycin (Bm), from Bm‐producing Streptomyces verticillus ATCC15003 and a methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus B‐26, respectively, were overexpressed in Escherichia coli. The present study showed that both BLMA and BLMS quench the antibacterial activity of Bm by the binding to the drug. To immuno‐chracterize the Bm‐binding proteins, we constructed a monoclonal antibody against BLMA. The antibody, designated 893‐12, did not cross react to BLMS and another Bm‐binding protein from tallysomycin‐producing Streptoalloteichus hindustanus. Although the ability of Bm to cleavage DNA was eliminated by a binding of BLMA to Bm, as shown by Sugiyama et al. [Gene 151 (1994) 11–15], the Bm‐induced DNA degradation was restored by pre‐incubation of BLMA with the anti‐BLMA monoclonal antibody.
Voltage‐dependent calcium channel β‐subunits in combination with α1 subunits, have a GTPase activating effect to promote the hydrolysis of GTP by Gαo in rat frontal cortex
Authors: Campbell Veronica , Berrow Nicholas , Brickley Kieran , Page Karen , Wade Robert , Dolphin Annette C.
Published: July 2002

The dihydropyridine‐sensitive calcium channel agonist (−)‐BayK 8644 was found to produce an enhancement of the intrinsic hydrolysis of GTP by Go in rat frontal cortex membranes. An anti‐calcium channel β‐subunit antiserum abolished the (−)‐BayK 8644‐stimulated hydrolysis of GTP by Go and reduced the dihydropyridine binding capacity of the cortical membranes. A peptide which mimics the β‐subunit binding domain of the calcium channel complex, also attenuated (−)‐BayK 8644 activation of GTPase. This study suggests that the calcium channel β‐subunit is the principal component of the channel complex involved in linking dihydropyridine agonist binding to enhanced hydrolysis of GTP by Go. This may be a mechanism by which calcium channels can normally act to limit the duration of a G‐protein modulatory signal.
Partial amino acid sequence and functional aspects of histone H1 proteins in Trypanosoma brucei brucei
Authors: Burri Markus , Schlimme Wolfram , Betschart Bruno , Lindner Herbert , Kämpfer Urs , Schaller Johann , Hecker Hermann
Published: July 2002

Summary— Trypanosoma brucei brucei, a protozoan parasite of wild and domestic animals in Africa, is related to the pathogenic agent of human sleeping sickness. Four H1 histone proteins were isolated from nuclei of procyclic culture forms and cleaved with proteases. Amino acid sequence analysis of purified fragments indicated the presence of variants which displayed sequence identities as compared to the C‐terminal domain of human H1. Substitutions of amino acids and posttranslational modifications of the histones in iT b brucei H1 may influence protein conformation and histone‐histone as well as histone‐DNA interactions in the chromatin of the parasite. Digestion of soluble chromatin with immobilized trypsin at low and high ionic strengths indicated an internal localization of H1 in the condensed chromatin. The influence of histone H1 of T b brucei on the compaction pattern of the chromatin was investigated by dissociation and reconstitution experiments. Electron microscopy revealed that trypanosome H1 was able to induce condensation of the chromatin of the parasite and of rat liver into dense tangles. After dephosphorylation of H1, 30 nm fibers were induced in rat liver chromatin, while the resulting fibers were distinctly thinner in T b brucei. It can be concluded that the absence of 30 nm fibers in T b brucei chromatin cannot be explained by the divergent variants and posttranslational phosphorylations of H1 only but rather by the influence of both, the divergent core histones, previously described, and H1 properties.
Two degradation pathways of endoplasmic reticulum in fish hepatocytes
Authors: Veranič Peter , Pipan Nada
Published: July 2002

Summary— Zebrafish hepatocytes respond to stimulation with estradiol 17β (E2) with an extreme enlargement of the endomembrane system, especially the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and when stimulation is stopped with a rapid degradation of enlarged endomembranes. Two pathways for degradation of ER were studied: a) the autophagy which was evaluated by stereological measurement; and b) the activity of cytosolic phospholipase B (PL‐B) measured by a titration method. After a 30‐day treatment with E2 a six‐fold increase of the surface density of ER was accompanied by an increase of both autophagy and PL‐B activity. 2 days after stopping the stimulation with E2 the ER vesiculated and its surface density decreased to the half value. Interestingly, at the same time autophagic vacuoles (AV) almost disappeared from hepatocytes, while the activity of PL‐B reached its maximum at which it persisted for a further 4 days. After 4–6 days without E2 the cistern of ER became flattened again and new AVs reappeared. The data suggest that the regulation mechanisms of endomembrane degradation by PL‐B and autophagy do not depend on each other and also that the appearance of AV is strongly related to the shape of ER.
Contribution of NF‐κB and p53 in the glutamate‐induced apoptosis
Authors: Uberti Daniela , Grilli Mariagrazia , Memo Maurizio
Published: July 2002

Exposure of primary cultures of cerebellar granule cells for 15 min to micromolar concentrations of glutamate results in cell death of both necrotic and apoptotic types. Among the intracellular events triggered by glutamate, we identified two transcriptional factors: the p50 member of the NF‐κB family and the tumor suppressor phosphoprotein p53. Pretreatment of the cultures with aspirin, which inhibits NF‐κB activation, or with specific p53 antisense oligonucleotide, which inhibits p53 transcription, resulted in a complete prevention of glutamate‐induced p53 induction and apoptosis. These findings suggest the existence of a transcriptional program activated by glutamate receptor stimulation in which p50 and p53 play a relevant role. Then, we studied the expression of two p53 downstream genes that could participate in the glutamate‐induced pro‐apoptotic pathway: p21, which codes for an inhibitor of different cyclin dependent kinases, and MSH2, which codes for a protein involved in the recognition and repair of DNA mismatches. We found that primary cerebellar neurons expressed p21 and MSH2 at very low levels in basal conditions. However, very soon after a brief exposure of the cells to glutamate, the expression of both proteins was dramatically enhanced.

On these bases, we propose NF‐κB, p53, p21 and MSH2 as relevant contributors of the glutamate‐induced pro‐apoptotic pathway. Understanding this cascade of nuclear events may unravel specific targets for pharmacological intervention for those neurological diseases in which excitatory amino acid‐induced apoptosis plays a relevant role.
Plasma brain natriuretic peptide — an independent predictor of cardiovascular mortality in acute heart failure
Authors: Yu Cheuk M. , Sanderson John E.
Published: July 2002

Purpose:

To examine the prognostic importance of both plasma atrial natriuretic and B‐(brain natriuretic peptide) following an episode of acute heart failure.

Subjects and methods:

A prospective cohort of 91 patients admitted into hospital with acute heart failure were recruited. After initial in‐hospital management plasma ANP and BNP levels were measured by radioimmunoassay, and echocardiography was performed on the same day. Patients were followed up for 12 months and the main outcome measure was cardiovascular death.

Results:

Plasma ANP and BNP levels were significantly higher in patients who died of a cardiovascular cause within 12 months (P < 0.001 and P < 0.0001, respectively) or at 1‐month (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001) after recruitment. By Kaplan‐Meier estimated life‐table curves, patients with above median plasma ANP or BNP levels had significantly higher 1‐year mortality (42.5% vs. 11.6%, both P < 0.005). By multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, the plasma BNP level was the most important prognostic factor predicting mortality (χ2 = 18.3, P < 0.0001), followed by age (χ2 = 11.5, P < 0.001). Other factors including ANP, left ventricular ejection fraction by M‐mode echocardiography, pulmonary arterial pressure, sex, cause of heart failure as well as New York Heart Association class were not significant.

Conclusion:

A plasma BNP level has independent and at least short‐term prognostic significance in patients admitted with acute heart failure. This non‐invasive and readily available blood test should be considered for risk stratification in patients with acute heart failure.
The basics of heart failure management: are they being ignored?
Authors: Horan Mairead , Barrett Fionnula , Mulqueen Mary , Maurer Brian , Quigley Peter , McDonald Kenneth M.
Published: July 2002

Background

Advances have been made in the medical management of congestive heart failure. However, there is concern that these changes may not be transmitted to the heart failure population in the community. Other impediments to improved prognosis, such as failure to apply non‐pharmacological strategies and poor patient comprehension may also be prevalent in the community.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to assess physician practice and patient knowledge in a heart failure population admitted to a University Hospital in Ireland. Methods: Patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of heart failure were studied. Estimation of ejection fraction was used to subdivide the population into heart failure with impaired and normal systolic function. Patients' course in hospital was noted with reference to management by cardiology or internal medicine, use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibition therapy and digoxin and application of dietary and rehabilitative services. Patient knowledge was assessed by questionnaire. Results: Eighty patients were included in this study. Two‐thirds of the population had impaired systolic function. The majority of patients were managed by internal medicine physicians, and this population was older and more likely to have normal systolic function. Prescription of converting enzyme inhibitor therapy was more frequently used in cardiology‐managed patients (96 vs. 70%, P<0.05). Neither group applied dietary or rehabilitative advice to a significant level. Patient comprehension was poor, especially with regard to understanding of medicine and the value of weight measurement.

Conclusion

The above data demonstrate a lack of use of rehabilitative and dietary services and poor patient knowledge. These deficiencies may play a role in determining outlook and may impede the expected improvement in prognosis that has been witnessed in large randomised studies.
Estimation of Solvent‐Modulated Linear Adsorption Parameters of Taxanes from Dilute Plant Tissue Culture Broth
Authors: Ma Zidu , Tanzil Dicksen , Au Bob W. , Wang Nien‐Hwa L.
Published: July 2002

A stepwise elution technique is developed to estimate the linear solvent‐modulated isotherm parameters of taxanes from dilute plant tissue culture broth. The technique is proven to be robust under various experimental conditions because mass transfer effects are decoupled from isotherm effects on elution bands. Simple algebraic equations are derived to relate isotherm parameters to the retention times at different solvent compositions in stepwise elution under volume overload conditions. A minimum loading volume, which is a function of mass transfer parameters, column geometries, and adsorption affinities, is estimated from moment analysis to ensure that band spreading due to mass transfer does not affect the accuracy of this method. The isotherms of a low‐cost solute, phenylalanine, under different ethanol concentrations are measured by a standard multiple frontal chromatography method. The results serve as benchmarks for the parameters that are estimated over the same ethanol concentration range using the stepwise elution technique. The parameters determined from these two independent methods are in close agreement. For paclitaxel and cephalomannine, the retention times and peak shapes from plant tissue culture broth experiments are well predicted from rate model simulations using the parameters estimated from single‐component elution data.
Microbial Synthesis of 3‐Dehydroshikimic Acid: A Comparative Analysis of d‐Xylose, l‐Arabinose, and d‐Glucose Carbon Sources
Authors: Li Kai , Frost J. W.
Published: July 2002

3‐Dehydroshikimic acid is a hydroaromatic precursor to chemicals ranging from l‐phenylalanine to adipic acid. The concentration and yield of 3‐dehydroshikimic acid microbially synthesized from various carbon sources has been examined under fed‐batch fermentor conditions. Examined carbon sources included d‐xylose, l‐arabinose, and d‐glucose. A mixture consisting of a 3:3:2 molar ratio of glucose/xylose/arabinose was also evaluated as a carbon source to model the composition of pentose streams potentially resulting from the hydrolysis of corn fiber. Escherichia coli KL3/pKL4.79B, which overexpresses feedback‐insensitive DAHP synthase, synthesizes higher concentrations and yields of 3‐dehydroshikimic acid when either xylose, arabinose, or the glucose/xylose/arabinose mixture is used as a carbon source relative to when glucose alone is used as a carbon source. E. coli KL3/pKL4.124A, which overexpresses transketolase and feedback‐insensitive DAHP synthase, synthesizes higher concentrations and yields of 3‐dehydroshikimic acid when the glucose/xylose/arabinose mixture is used as the carbon source relative to when either xylose or glucose is used as a carbon source. Observed high‐titer, high‐yielding synthesis of 3‐dehydroshikimic acid from the glucose/xylose/arabinose mixture carries significant ramifications relevant to the employment of corn fiber in the microbial synthesis of value‐added chemicals.
In Vivo and In Vitro Investigations on the Synthesis of Estradiol‐17β by the Bovine Mammary Gland near Term
Authors: Janowski T , Zdunczyk S , Mwaanga ES , Babinski J , Ras A
Published: July 2002

Contents

Concentration of estradiol‐17β in the milk and tail vein were determined by radio‐immunoassay in 40 dairy cows from day 20 prepartum to day 4 postpartum. The animals were divided into two groups according to their milk production in the previous lactation: group 1 (n = 20)‐high‐yielding cows (6500 kg milk per lactation), group 2 (n = 20) low yielding cows (3700 kg milk per lactation). The levels of estradiol‐17β were higher (p 0.01) in the milk vein than in the tail vein from about day 12 prepartum to parturition. In comparison with low‐yielding cows the high‐yielding cows had significantly higher (p 0.01) estradiol‐17β values in the mammary venous plasma, but not in peripheral plasma. In an in vitro experiment, homogenates of bovine mammary tissue collected on day 7 prepartum from two cows were incubated with 3H‐androstendione. After incubation the samples were extracted and 3H‐estradiol‐17β was separated by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Radioactivity of fractions containing 3H‐estradiol‐17β was determined and calculated as a percentage of total radioactivity. Androstendione was metabolized into estradiol‐17β to the extent of 37%. These results indicate that the mammary secretion of estradiol‐17β starts about day 12 prepartum and is associated with milk yield. Furthermore, the results of a preliminary in vitro study with a limited number of animals suggest that the bovine mammary tissue is able to synthesize estradiol‐17β near term.
Computed tomography pulmonary angiography with pelvic venography in the evaluation of thrombo‐embolic disease
Authors: Au Virginia Wk , Walsh Geraldine , Fon Gerald
Published: July 2002

A prospective study was performed to evaluate the usefulness of CT pelvic venography (CTV) in the detection of pelvic vein thrombosis in patients referred for CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) for suspected pulmonary embolism. Fifty consecutive patients referred for CTPA had CTV performed at the time of CTPA. All patients had duplex ultrasound (DUS) of the lower limb veins for evaluation of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) within 24 h of the CT study. Twelve (24%) of the 50 patients had pulmonary embolism diagnosed on CTPA. Associated DVT was detected in six of these patients; two cases were detected by CTV alone, while one case was detected by both CTV and DUS. The remaining three cases had DVT diagnosed by DUS alone. In the 38 patients with a negative CTPA, three patients had venous thrombus diagnosed by CTV. Of these three patients, two had a negative DUS study. CTV therefore led to a definitive imaging diagnosis of thrombo‐embolic disease in two (4%) more patients. CTV adds little time and cost to the CTPA examination and leads to a moderate increase in definite imaging diagnosis of thrombo‐embolic disease.
Magnetic resonance imaging signal characteristics in hydatid cysts
Authors: Singh Surendra , Gibikote Sridhar V
Published: July 2002

The MRI features of hydatid cysts were retrospectively studied in 12 patients to look for specific signal characteristics. Twelve patients in the series included eight with abdominal, two with abdominal‐pelvic, one with a sacral and one with a lung hydatid cyst. The T1‐, T2‐ and proton density (PD)‐weighted images of spin‐echo sequence were used for imaging. The signal characteristics of the hydatid parent cyst capsule and fluid, daughter cyst fluid, detached germinal membrane and surrounding soft tissue reaction were noted. Observations revealed that the capsule is best seen on T2‐ and PD‐weighted images. The daughter cysts are best demonstrated on T1‐weighted images, whereas the difference in the signal intensities of parent cyst and daughter cyst fluid is better demonstrated on T2‐weighted and T1‐weighted images, and the detached germinal membrane is best seen on T2‐ and PD‐weighted images. The signal characteristics of hydatid cyst morphology can help distinguish it from other entities.
A systematic review of foot ulcer in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. I: prevention
Authors: Mason J. , O’Keeffe C. , McIntosh A. , Hutchinson A. , Booth A. , Young R. J.
Published: July 2002

Aim To evaluate the role of preventative strategies in reducing foot ulcers in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus, both in the general population and those identified to be at a raised risk.

Method A systematic review of interventions to prevent diabetic foot ulcers.

Results Available studies are generally unsatisfactory in their ability to answer the important questions relating to prevention. However, where people with diabetes receive well‐organized and regular care with rapid referral to appropriate specialist multidisciplinary teams when problems (or their precursors) occur, ulcer morbidity can be substantially reduced.

Conclusion Foot ulcers are common in people with diabetes and are costly in terms of both patient morbidity and the use of healthcare resources. Although it is nearly a decade since the St Vincent Declaration called for a marked reduction in morbidity to be achieved through better patient management, available evidence suggests that the process of care in Britain is still very variable in quality. Foot care for people with diabetes must be organized to provide monitoring, education and referral in a manner acceptable to patients and realistic for local healthcare providers.
The increasing prevalence of allergy: a challenge for the physician
Authors: Mösges R.
Published: July 2002

The prevalence of allergic disorders has increased markedly throughout the world during the past three decades. There has been considerable controversy about the extent to which the increase is real, or attributable to increased awareness or better diagnosis. It seems probable that the increased prevalence is real because longitudinal studies have shown a rapid exponential increase in allergic disorders such as asthma. Since there is a marked difference in the occurrence of allergic disorders between Western and less developed countries, as well as between rural and urban areas, it is likely that environmental (‘lifestyle’) factors are aetiologically involved. It also seems probable that contact with microbial antigens, in the form of childhood infections, vaccinations and contact with farm animals, can exert some protection against the later development of allergies. Studies are in progress to determine whether reduction in risk factors or intervention with anti‐allergic therapies can modify the long‐term outcome in populations at high risk.
Hazy days? The refractive outlook of photorefractive keratectomy/photo‐astigmatic keratectomy
Authors: Weed Kathryn H. , McGhee Charles N. J. , Bryce Iain G.
Published: July 2002

The refractive outcome of 100 healthy myopic eyes which had undergone excimer laser (VISX 20/20) was evaluated at 6 months post‐treatment. Patients were subdivided into Group A (n = 51, < −5.00 D spherical equivalent (SE)), Group B (n = 38, −5.00 to < −10.00 D SE) and Group C (n = 11, > −10.00 D SE). The mean myopic sphere decreased from −2.88 to −0.22 DS, −5.94 to −0.43 DS and −12.61 to −1.83 DS, respectively. Cylinder reduction ranged from 23 to 53%, effectiveness: decreasing with increasing associated myopia. Sixty‐six percent of all subjects attained an SE correction within 1.00 D of that attempted, however, 80% actually achieved vision of 6/12 or better. At 6 months only six eyes were not within one line of their pre‐operative best spectacle visual acuity (BSVA) and four of these exhibited haze greater than Grade 1. In low myopia, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) appears to be highly successful with 93% of subjects with an initial myopia of < −5.00 D SE obtaining 6/12 or better vision. However, photo‐astigmatic refractive keratectomy (PARK) was variable within all groups.
Phenology and Genome Size Variation in Allium L. ‐ a Tight Correlation?
Authors: Ohri D. , Pistrick K.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: A very wide diversity of genome size and phenology has been shown in 75 Allium species belonging to all of the six subgenera. The 2C DNA amounts per genome, which range from 16.93 to 63.57 pg, do not show any significant negative correlation with flowering period or any direct relation with foliage leaf dormancy. This means that there is no general correlation between evolution of genome size and life strategies in the differentiation of the genus Allium. This conclusion is rather unexpected in being contrary to the ecological perspective of the nucleotype theory in the genus Allium.
Preparation of CuInS2 films by sulfurization of Cu-In-O films
Authors: Wada Takahiro , Negami Takayuki , Nishitani Mikihiko
Published: July 2002

CuInS2 thin films are prepared by using a newly developed two-stage process comprised of a first process by which Cu-In-O films are prepared from a Cu2In2O5 target by a pulsed laser deposition, and a second process by which the prepared Cu-In-O films are transformed into CuInS2 films by applying an annealing in a H2S gas. The characteristics of thus obtained CuInS2 films are determined by using an x-ray diffractometer, an energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer, and a scanning electron microscope, in addition to a spectrophotometer. The CuInS2 film with chalcopyrite-type structure is obtained when it is annealed at a temperature higher than 400 °C. The effect of annealing temperature on its structural and optical properties is being analyzed.
Epitaxial MgO on GaAs(111) as a buffer layer for z-cut epitaxial lithium niobate
Authors: Fork D. K. , Anderson G. B.
Published: July 2002

The epitaxial system z-lithium niobate on GaAs(111)A and GaAs(111)B has been demonstrated by in situ pulsed laser deposition both with and without intermediate layers of MgO(111). The in-plane epitaxial relationships are LiNbO3[110]∥GaAs[2̄11] and [21̄1̄] indicating the existence of 180° boundaries in the LiNbO3 both with and without the MgO layer, which grows cube-on-cube with the GaAs. Out-of-plane texture is typically 1.0° and 1.2° for the MgO and LiNbO3 layers, respectively. In-plane texture is typically 2.8° and 4.5° for the MgO and LiNbO3 layers, respectively. This epitaxial system may be useful for monolithic electro-optic or frequency doubling applications in conjunction with semiconductor laser diodes.
Effect of back contact impedance on frequency dependence of capacitance-voltage measurements on metal/diamond diodes
Authors: Venkatesan V. , Das K. , von Windheim J. A. , Geis M. W.
Published: July 2002

Differential capacitance-voltage (C-V) measurements were performed on Al and Pt rectifying contacts fabricated on natural (type IIb) diamonds. The C-V data showed frequency dependence, which decreased significantly after reducing the back contact impedance. The frequency dependence seems primarily to be an effect of the contact capacitance, contact resistance, and bulk resistance of diamond. A model which includes these variables has been proposed to explain this frequency dependence using both large and small back contact impedances.
Low dark current infrared hot-electron transistor for 77 K operation
Authors: Choi K. K. , Tidrow M. Z. , Taysing-Lara M. , Chang W. H. , Kuan C. H. , Farley C. W. , Chang F.
Published: July 2002

Recently, thermal imaging using quantum well infrared photodetector (QWIP) focal plane arrays has been demonstrated. However, the operating temperature needs to be kept around 60 K due to the large dark current occurring at higher temperatures. In order to achieve thermal imaging at 77 K, we have designed and demonstrated two infrared hot-electron transistor structures, whose dark current is two to three orders of magnitude lower than that of a QWIP. The resultant dark current falls within the limit of the charge handling capacity of a readout circuit, and the infrared detection is demonstrated to be background limited at 77 K. The noise equivalent temperature difference of the detectors is estimated to be 14 and 26 mK, respectively.