bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered Biomechanics of the Normal Side and the Impact on Rehabilitation of the Affected Side in Patients with Hemiplegia: A Mini Review
Authors: Harjpal Pallavi Lalchand , Qureshi Mohammed Irshad , Kovela Rakesh Krishna , Jain Moli Jai
Published: December 2022

Altered biomechanics is defined as the acquired alteration in the mechanics of the musculoskeletal system that leads to improper movement patterns. Hemiplegia is the reduction in strength or paralysis of one side of the body due to a stroke. The amount of involvement post stroke depends on the site of the lesion. There are various other neurological complications and associated symptoms, but the effect on biomechanics is due to alterations in the muscle strength of the unaffected side of stroke along with hemiplegia or paresis of the affected side. The unaffected side of stroke is considered to be the normal side and is thus not considered in the treatment session, allowing it to lose its competencies, thus, the gait pattern is altered in poststroke survivors. To find the pertinent literature, electronic databases were searched using the terms “biomechanics” and “hemiplegia”. The resulting articles were reviewed, the bibliography was double-checked, and pertinent literature was added. This review article discusses the alterations in the biomechanics of the normal side and the impact on rehabilitation of patients with hemiplegia. It also provides a newer outlook to focus also on the normal side while rehabilitation, thus enhancing early recovery.
Factors affecting bird attacks on small mammal traps
Authors: Young C. M. , Kimpton K.A. , Cohen H.M , Burns P.T. , McLaughlin K. , Banks P.B.
Published: December 2022

Live trapping is a common survey technique used to sample small terrestrial mammal populations, but too often traps are disturbed by non-target species, especially by birds such as corvids, resulting in a considerable waste of survey time and effort. This study aimed to test whether visual cues associated with trapping increased the disturbance rate of traps by birds, which are renowned for their attraction to visual stimuli. We manipulated trap covering (plastic bag, hessian and uncovered traps) in conjunction with the presence and absence of flagging tape, and randomly assigned treatments to traps in 180 locations for checking in either the morning or the evening. The plastic bag cover was the primary cause of disturbance rates with approximately 50% of all traps with plastic bags disturbed compared to uncovered traps (2%) or traps covered in hessian (9%). Flagging and time of day had no effect on the likelihood of disturbance. It is probable that trap-raiding birds may have associated plastic with scavenged foods from nearby picnic areas and sources of rubbish. We suggest that hessian provides a reasonable alternative to plastic bags, giving shelter for trapped animals from rain and exposure while reducing the likelihood of trap attack by birds.
Assessment of Glycaemic Control among Diabetic Patients Attending Care at Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso
Authors: Idowu A. E. , Amole I. O. , Durodola A. O. , Adesina S. A. , Adegoke A. O. , Akinwumi A. I. , Idowu O. A. , Awotunde O. T. , OlaOlorun A. D.
Published: December 2022

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycaemia resulting from impairment in insulin secretion, insulin action or both. The aim of management of diabetes mellitus is to achieve and maintain blood glucose levels within normal ranges and prevent its complications. This study aims to assess the glycaemic control among adult outpatients with diabetes mellitus in Bowen University Teaching Hospital (BUTH), Ogbomoso with a view to intensify effort towards achieving good glycaemic control.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study in which 299 consenting diabetic patients were recruited using systematic sampling technique. Sociodemographic characteristics of each participant and their medical history were obtained using a structured interviewer   administered questionnaire. The level of glycaemic control was assessed with glycosylated haemoglobin level and recorded for each participant and it was classified as either poor or good. The data collected was analysed using SPSS version 20 software and presented as Descriptive statistics. The association between two or more categorical variable was tested using Chi-square test and fisher’s exact test. Statistical significance was set at p-value less than 0.05.

Results: The age group above 60 years had the highest proportion (41.8%) of participants, 60.9% of the participants were females. Majority of the participants (91.6%) were married. About 67.9% of the respondents were in social class 2 and majority of the participants (69.6%) were urban dwellers. Participants on oral anti-diabetic drugs were 62.2% and of this proportion, about 34.1% were on both oral drugs and insulin. About 67.2% of the participants had a duration of diabetes less than 5 years. Most of the participants had a poor glycaemic control with a frequency of 83.6%. The mean level of glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) in this study was 9.2 ± 2.5%. A significant association with glycaemic control was found with the participants age group, sex, level of education and duration on treatment.

Conclusion: The long-term glycaemic control of the participants was unacceptably poor. There is need to intensify efforts targeting good glycaemic control in the patients with diabetes mellitus in order to prevent complications from the disease. There is also a need to do further studies to find out the factors associated with poor glycaemic control found in this study.
An Overview of the Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Human Parvovirus B19
Authors: Vadivel Kumaran , Nandagopal Balaji , Ramamurthy Mageshbabu , Saravanan Nithiyanandan , Rajendiran Prashanth
Published: December 2022

Human Parvovirus B19 (HPV-B19) infections are reported from different parts of the globe. The infection occurs in all age groups; however, most infections occur in childhood. There is evidence of exposure to the virus in about 80% of adults when screened for specific IgG. HPV-B19 is incriminated in several conditions like erythema infectious, aplastic crisis, hydrops fetalis and arthropathy. HPV-B19 is a cause of the Fifth disease (erythema infectious); it could also cause a febrile illness with or without rash in adults. Many adults especially women develop arthropathy and the condition could be chronic following a febrile illness. Patients (adults) with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) are prone to develop aplastic crisis or chronic anemia [1].  This review article aims to comprehensively describe the etiology, epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic methods, and treatment in the management of HPV-B19.
Metanalysis of Vaccine Efficacy for Monkeypox According to Clinical Criteria of History Taking, Clinical Features and Laboratory Investigation
Authors: Talalwah Waseem Al , Aldorazi Shorok
Published: December 2022

Monkeypox virus is DNA virus of Orthopoxvirus. The Monkeypox is zoonosis disease first diagnosed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970 and originally transmitted from Vertebrate Reservoir. In 1796, Edward Jenner was the first physician achieved vaccine and prove its efficacy through exposing James Phipps to smallpox after immunization. The current study revises the vaccine efficacy and mortality rate of monkeypox. It is mainly transmitted from Squirrels to human and cause mortality rate ranging from 2.7 to 10.1%. Globally, it estimated 4.4% the mortality rate of Monkeypox cases. Based on current review study, the effectiveness of smallpox vaccine in preventing the monkeypox is quite variable due to several selective clinical cases criteria such as history taking and clinical features and laboratory investigation, which modify the statistical result of the vaccine efficacy. The current study clarifies the faults of calculation by eliminating several reasons and estimating the effectiveness of vaccine in the household and find it to be 16.3% whereas total Vaccine efficacy is 0.6%. Using preventive measures are the first line to avoid infection therefore healthcare workers must adhere to infection control precautions. A current study warns scientists to create monkeypox vaccine rather than depending on smallpox vaccine effectiveness due to lacking of current vaccine effectiveness evidence and treatment.
A Critical Review on Physiological Changes during Growth Maturation and Ripening of Citrus Fruits
Authors: Sachan Neelam , Kumar Vivek
Published: December 2022

Citrus is one of the major fruit crops in the world and widely recognized by their nutritional, organoleptic and health-related benefits of fresh fruit. The genetic diversity among the genus and independent changes in peel and pulp, make the definition of standard maturity indexes of fruit quality. Commercial maturity indexes in the citrus industry are usually based on peel coloration, soluble solids, pH but their relevance may differ among varieties and the specific requirements of the markets. Citrus fruits are excellent source of many phytochemical, including ascorbic acid, antioxidant, tannin, etc., which greatly contribute to the health-related benefits of citrus fruits. Criteria and definition of the main maturity indexes for citrus fruit worldwide are described, as well as changes during fruit maturation in key components affecting organoleptic and nutritional properties. Citrus fruits were analyzed at different maturity stages. This review is aimed to characterize the physiological maturity of the fruit across the different developmental stage which has not been well reported in literature till now.
Effect of Cropping Systems and Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Coconut in Littoral Sand
Authors: Karna A. K. , Mishra G. , Nayak P. K. , Sahoo S. C. , Nayak R. K. , Panda R. K.
Published: December 2022

An experiment was carried out in a 38 years old coconut plantation of Sakhigopal Local Tall variety at All India Coordinated Research Project on palms, Konark (OUAT) during July 2017 to June 2019. The treatments comprised of three cropping system and three integrated nutrient management practices. The experiment was laid out in a Split Plot Design with three replications. The studies revealed that adoption of cropping system of coconut + sapota + pineapple with application of green manuring + biofertilizers + organic recycling + soil test based nutrients NPK (chemical fertilizers) application significantly increase the number of female flowers (245.83/palm/year), nut yield (65.21/palms/year), weight of whole nut (1206.54 g), weight of dehusked nut (603.01 g), kernel weight (293.41 g) and copra weight (168.33 g). Similarly minimum number of female flowers, nut yield, kernel weight and copra weight were recorded in treatment combination of monocrop of coconut with green manuring + biofertilizers + organic recycling. The study indicated that cropping coconut + sapota + pineapple cropping system with organic and soil test based nutrients NPK are suitable for better growth and development of coconut.
In vitro Evaluation of Biocontrol Potential of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Natural Ecosystem against Plant Pathogenic Fungi
Authors: Krithika M. S. , Shivaprakash M. K. , Adithya S.
Published: December 2022

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are ubiquitous, Gram-positive, fermentative bacteria, which are    regarded as safe for both humans and the environment. The present study aimed to evaluate the biocontrol efficiency of LAB isolated from different natural ecosystems against fungal pathogens. A total of 30 LAB was isolated from rhizosphere soil and phyllosphere sample of Solanaceous crop viz., Brinjal, Capsicum, Chilli, Tomato, whey, and sauerkraut out of them 14, 9, 4 and 3 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from rhizosphere soil & phyllosphere sample of Solanaceous crops, whey and Sauerkraut respectively. The biocontrol ability of LAB isolates were tested against fungal plant pathogens such as Fusarium oxysporum, Pythium aphanidermatum, Sclerotium rolfsi, Rhizoctonia solani, Alternaria sp. agar well diffusion assay and mycelial growth inhibition in liquid culture. The results indicated that the isolates LAB 4, LAB 10, LAB 22, LAB 24 and LAB 29 were prominent in inhibiting the growth of most of the pathogens. Molecular characterization of selected LAB isolates revealed that LAB 4, LAB 10, LAB 22, LAB 24 belongs to Lactobacillus plantarum and LAB 29 belong to Leuconostoc mesentroides.
Ocimum gratissimum Leaves Aqueous Extract Can Minimize Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion and Reperfusion-Induced Injury in Rat’s Brain
Authors: Bilanda Danielle Claude , Sandy Yougo , Kandeda Antoine Kavaye , Taïwe Germain Sotoing , Dzeufiet Paul Désiré Djomeni , Dimo Théophile , Kamtchouing Pierre
Published: December 2022

Background and Aim: Ocimum gratissimum is widely used in traditional medicine for its good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Stroke is an important factor of disability and death worldwide causing brain injury through oxidative stress and inflammation. The present study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of Ocimum gratissimum on middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion-induced brain injury in rat.

Experimental Procedure: The rats (48) were divided into 8 groups of 6 animals each and treated as followed: 3 groups receiving distilled water (10 mL/kg); one piracetam (250 mg/kg) and 4 groups receiving the plant extract (30, 60, 120 and 240 mg/kg) for 3 days. On the fourth day, ischemia by middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion (MCAO) surgery was performed on the groups receiving piracetam and extract. As for the 3 groups receiving distilled water, one was not operated; one was operated without MCAO (sham operated) while the last one was operated with MCAO. The temperature, neurological function through behavioral tests, heat sensibility, and open arena tests were assessed. Inflammatory and oxidative stress markers were analyzed in the region of the brain affected by MCAO.

Results and Conclusion: Three days pretreatment with the plant extract prevented the drop of temperature and heat sensibility, reduced the neurological score and associated anxiety-like behavior. The extract also prevented inflammation and oxidative stress induced by MCAO in the brain. All these observations suggest that Ocimum gratissimum by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potencies can protect the brain against ischemic stroke-induced brain injury.
Business Practices of Beneficiaries of Women Development Fund in Iringa Municipal Council, Iringa Region, Tanzania
Authors: Phillipo Frank
Published: December 2022

The study was conducted in 2021 to examine the business practices of the beneficiaries of the Women Development Fund (WDF) in Iringa District Council, Tanzania. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design where checklists and semi-structured questionnaires were used to gather information from a sample size of 100 respondents who were beneficiaries of WDF. The respondents involved in the study were randomly selected from the study population.  Descriptive analysis was used to analyze quantitative information using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS. 20.0) computer software. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data collected from the key-informants. The study findings showed that beneficiaries of WDF in the study area are operating their business with low start-up capital, inadequate technical and managerial skills, lack of business premises, operating unregistered business activities, low savings, and poor record keeping of their business activities. The study recommends to the Local Government Authority (LGA) to provide a friendly business environment for beneficiaries of WDF to undertake business activities by providing technical and managerial skills that will enable them to have the ability to manage their undertakings successfully.
Hybrid Channel: MSME Collaboration in Digital Marketing in Post COVID-19: Case Study on MSMEs in Pangkajene Kepulauan Region
Authors: Hidayati Wiwiek , Sitompul Meline Gerarita
Published: December 2022

Aims: Indonesia is currently dominated by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which need special attention because their contribution to the national economy is quite significant. This study aimed to analyze the Hybrid Channel strategy used in collaboration in MSMEs related to digital marketing in the post-Covid period in the Pangkajene Kepulauan region.

Study Design: This research is a descriptive study using a qualitative approach. Primary data come from secondary data from the local government and data collected from questionaires.

Place and Duration of Study: This research was conducted in the district of Pangkajene and the Kepulauan. This study was held for six months, from April 2022 to September 2022.

Methodology: This study uses a descriptive approach, using literature studies to collect data and take various reference sources that support this research. Data collection is done through secondary data from the government, listening and recording important information in data collection, analyzing data using data reduction, and data validation using data source triangulation.

Results: The results obtained from study literature and interviews with several MSME actors in Pangkajene Kepula Regency agree that digital marketing helps them promote and market their products effectively. They argue that digital marketing saves promotion costs because it still relies on online marketing, such as distributing brochures and placing advertisements in newspapers and billboards; their expenses will be more significant when they use offline marketing. The literature review also confirms this point, stating that internet marketing expands market reach, lowers marketing costs, and promotes good customer relationships. However, some MSMEs have not maximized digital marketing to the maximum due to the influence of misunderstandings in digital marketing, such as creating a company website, maximizing search engine optimization (SEO), and using Google Adsense as a promotional medium.

Conclusion: Digital transformation will continue to be the key to the growth of MSMEs in the midst of Indonesia's economic recovery after COVID 19. Not only as a way out, digitalization also opened up opportunities for MSMEs, especially in Pangkajene Kepulauan Regencies to contribute to exports while accelerating business in the domestic market. The Hybrid Channel also encourages the Offline to Online (O2O) movement which on the other hand is able to open up comprehensive opportunities for digital startup industry players to create a new ecosystem to support the growth of MSMEs.
THE HISTORY OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION POLICY IN INDIA
Authors: Jamal Abshana , Joseph Dr. M. K.
Published: December 2022

In the Indian constitution, there is a strong emphasis placed on education as a fundamental right for all children, and several laws and programmes have been put into place in India to protect this fundamental right. However, there has always been a concern about inclusion when it comes to children with disabilities. Even though there were special schools for these differently abled children, that couldn’t support the idea of inclusion. After signing the “Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action on Special Needs Education”, India has taken steps to be more inclusive in nature. This paper attempts to explain the different policies and programmes that India has introduced for making the education system inclusive.
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AT HIGHER SECONDARY LEVEL- A CASE STUDY
Authors: Mathew Jasmine , Joseph Dr. M. K.
Published: December 2022

India has formulated its education policy to attain the fourth sustainable development goal of the United Nations. The new education policy revived the inclusive education programs in Indian schools. At this point, it is crucial to evaluate the implementation of inclusive programs, understand their status, and identify measures to strengthen them. This paper describes the case study of a higher secondary school that admits students under the Inclusive Education for Disabled at Secondary Stage scheme. Although this study demonstrates the inclusive environment the school provides for students with special needs, the absence of trained professionals such as special educators and social workers casts shade on the programs effectiveness.
CHILD SPONSORSHIP FOR EQUITABLE AND INCLUSIVE EDUCATION-A CASE STUDY
Authors: E.P Marykutty , Mathew Jasmine
Published: December 2022

An equitable and inclusive education system is a decisive factor in the development of a country. As humanitarian aid mobilizes funds internationally, child sponsorship ensures education for marginalized children. This paper describes the case study of a child sponsorship program run by Sacred Heart Congregation of catholic nuns in Kerala. It details the initiative of this family-based child sponsorship that envisions the social mobility of low-income families through acquiring education and pursuing employment. Moreover, it sheds light on new avenues for social work research and interventions to assess and refine the effectiveness of child sponsorship programs.
ENSURING EQUITABLE AND INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN KERALA: A CASE STUDY OF GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE IN KERALA
Authors: Xavier Serin , Thampi Dr. Kiran
Published: December 2022

Inclusive education is a successful practice that gives all juveniles an equal chance to explore school, study, and increase their talents.Article 47 of the Indian constitution requires that children aged 6 to 14 get free and compulsory education. National Education Policy 2020 envisions equitable and inclusive education in line with the fourth Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). The General Education Department in Kerala stages many interventions under different schemes for an equitable distribution of quality education in state. Integrated Education for Disabled Children programme founded in 1947, and the national policy of education endorsed inclusive education in 1986. CRAFT is a 3-day camp for students in the government schools of Kerala, organized by SamagraShikshaKeralam and the General Education Department during the summer holidays. The camp intended to provide vocational training under equitable and inclusive education emphasized in the National Education Policy 2020. In line with the abstraction of inclusive education, the participation was also open to children with special needs. With the motto Do and Learn, this program imparted a set of skills to the participants. However, the students need continuous training to develop their careers in their area of interest.
ENABLING ART THERAPY IN EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS: EXPLORING THE THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS
Authors: Yohannan Shilpa V. , I. P Dr. Sunirose
Published: December 2022

Art as therapy is a means of expression, valuing process over product. Children can benefit from art therapy in multiple ways, where a therapist can deal with the complex emotions of a child through the art-making process. One of the ways to integrate the benefits of arts to children is through educational institutions, thereby encouraging a more comprehensive and inclusive view of development and existing barriers. However, integrating art as therapy for the overall well-being of children in educational institutions is still an emerging concept. This paper describes the potential advantages of visual arts for children in an inclusive educational setting, highlighting art therapys significant role in enhancing childrens mental health and well-being.
A novel reporter mouse strain that expresses enhanced green fluorescent protein upon Cre‐mediated recombination
Authors: Kawamoto Shunsuke , Niwa Hitoshi , Tashiro Fumi , Sano Shigetoshi , Kondoh Gen , Takeda Junji , Tabayashi Koichi , Miyazaki Jun-ichi
Published: July 2002

The success of Cre‐mediated conditional gene targeting depends on the specificity of Cre recombinase expression in Cre‐transgenic mouse lines. As a tool to evaluate the specificity of Cre expression, we developed a reporter transgenic mouse strain that expresses enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) upon Cre‐mediated recombination. We demonstrate that the progeny resulting from a cross between this reporter strain and a transgenic strain expressing Cre in zygotes show ubiquitous EGFP fluorescence. This reporter strain should be useful to monitor the Cre expression directed by various promoters in transgenic mice, including mice in which Cre is expressed transiently during embryogenesis under a developmentally regulated promoter.
Pairing of oligosaccharides in the Fc region of immunoglobulin G
Authors: Masuda Katsuyoshi , Yamaguchi Yoshiki , Kato Koichi , Takahashi Noriko , Shimada Ichio , Arata Yoji
Published: July 2002

The Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (IgG) expresses paired oligosaccharides with microheterogeneities, which are associated with efficiencies of effector functions and with pathological states. A comparison of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry data obtained using a variety of Fc fragments derived from human and mouse IgG that do and do not retain the inter‐chain disulfide bridge(s) revealed that (1) the Fc portion can be asymmetric as well as symmetric with respect to glycosylation and (2) the ratios of the individual glycoforms are different from what is expected from the random pairing.
Human cytomegalovirus immediate early proteins upregulate endothelial p53 function
Authors: Wang Jun , Marker Paul H , Belcher John D , Wilcken David E.L , Burns Linda J , Vercellotti Gregory M , Wang Xing L
Published: July 2002

Infected endothelial cells are found to be resistant to apoptosis possibly mediated by p53 cytoplasmic sequestration. We explored whether the immediate early 84 kDa protein (IE84) of cytomegalovirus (CMV) is responsible for p53 cytoplasmic sequestration. The endothelial cells were transfected with plasmids containing IE1 and 2 coding regions which are known to synthesize IE84 and 72 proteins. Our study found that p53 expression was significantly elevated in endothelial cells transfected with IE1 and 2 plasmids. However, p53 was only found in the nucleus rather than sequestered in the cytoplasm. We have demonstrated that IE84 and 72 are not responsible for p53 dysfunction caused by CMV infection, rather they upregulate p53 function and promote endothelial apoptosis.
XylS activator and RNA polymerase binding sites at the Pm promoter overlap
Authors: González-Pérez M.Mar , Marqués Silvia , Domı́nguez-Cuevas Patricia , Ramos Juan L.
Published: July 2002

Transcription from the TOL plasmid meta‐cleavage pathway operon, Pm, depends on the XylS protein being activated by a benzoate effector. The XylS binding sites are two imperfect 5′‐TGCAN6GGNTA‐3′ direct repeats located between positions −70/−56 and −49/−35 [González‐Pérez et al. (1999) J. Biol. Chem. 274, 2286–2290]. An intrinsic bending of 40°, which is not essential for transcription, is centered at position −43. We have determined the potential overlap between the XylS and RNA polymerase binding sites. The insertion of 2 or more bp between C and T at positions −37 and −36 abolished transcription activation by the wild‐type XylS and by XylSS229I, a mutant with increased affinity for the XylS binding sites. In contrast, a 1‐bp insertion at −37 was permissible, although when in addition to the 1‐bp insertion at −37 the mutant promoter had a point mutation at the XylS binding site (C−47→T), transcription was abolished with the wild‐type XylS protein, but not with XylSS229I. The overlap between the proximal XylS binding site and the −35 region recognized by RNA polymerase at positions −35 and −36 appears to be critical for transcription.
Total free radical trapping antioxidant potential in pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Kharb S.
Published: July 2002

Objective: The aim of the present study was to measure serum urate, tocopherol and ascorbate and to calculate total radical trapping antioxidant potential (TRAP) in pre‐eclampsia. Methods: Study samples were taken from 25 pre‐eclamptic, 25 normotensive pregnant and 25 non‐pregnant healthy females for measuring uric acid, vitamin C and E, total sulfhydryl group. Also lipid peroxidation product malonaldehyde (MDA), the superoxide generation (NBT reduction) were estimated and TRAP was calculated. Data were analyzed statistically using Student's t‐test. Result: Pre‐eclamptic women had significantly increased MDA levels, superoxide generation and uric acid levels as compared to control subjects (P<0.001). Vitamin C and E and total thiols were lower in pre‐eclampsia as compared to control subjects (P<0.001). TRAP was significantly higher in pre‐eclampsia. Conclusion: TRAP provides a means of assessing the total capacity of the chain‐breaking antioxidants to prevent lipid peroxidation in plasma.
Mechanism of BMP‐2 stimulated adhesion of osteoblastic cells to titanium alloy
Authors: Shah Asit K. , Lazatin Jovin , Sinha Raj K. , Lennox Tricia , Hickok Noreen J. , Tuan Rocky S.
Published: July 2002

Cell adhesion is dependent on many factors, including the repertoire of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and their receptors, eg integrins, synthesized by the cell, the composition of the ECM adsorbed to the surface, and the intrinsic chemistry of the surface. Factors that govern bone cell, ie osteoblast, adhesion and ECM elaboration significantly influence its re‐modeling into mature bone, and ultimately its ability to integrate with biomaterials used for orthopedic prostheses. In this study, we have investigated how treatment with bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2), a member of the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) superfamily that promotes ectopic bone formation, modulates the organization and expression of osteoblastic cell proteins. Specifically, we analyzed how BMP‐2 treatment affects cytoskeletal components, ECM, and α5, and β1 integrin receptor subunits in osteoblastic cells plated on Ti6A14V, a titanium alloy widely used for orthopedic implants that interacts with bone cells in vitro and in vivo. Osteoblastic cells were pre‐treated with BMP‐2 for 12 h prior to plating; BMP‐2 treatment stimulated adhesion and proliferation of osteoblastic cells and this adhesive advantage was reflected in enhanced long‐term matrix mineralization in the BMP‐2 pre‐treated cultures. Confocal laser scanning microscopic analysis of BMP‐2 treated cells showed that enhanced cytoskeletal organization and focal contact formation occurred. These changes were accompanied by a concomitant increase in the spatial organization of fibronectin, whereas vitronectin, collagen type I, osteopontin, and osteocalcin showed little change. The changes in ECM organization correlated with increased fibronectin, α5 and β1 integrin subunit, and focal adhesion kinase (p125FAK) expression, as well as increased p125FAK phosphorylation. By confocal microscopy, the α5 integrin subunit was more concentrated in lamellipodia after BMP‐2 treatment. These results demonstrate that BMP‐2 significantly altered osteoblastic cytoskeletal and ECM organization and enhanced expression of fibronectin and of specific integrin receptor subunits, with concomitant changes in the levels and phosphorylation of p125FAK. These effects may contribute to downstream cellular responses important for bone cell function, and growth.
Effect of Adsorbent Porosity on Performance of Expanded Bed Chromatography of Proteins
Authors: Gondkar Shyamal , Manudhane Kushal , Amritkar Nilesh , Pai Anita , Lali Arvind
Published: July 2002

Expanded bed or fluidized bed adsorption has emerged as an important unit operation in downstream processing of proteins. A number of specifically designed commercial adsorbents are available today for expanded bed purification of proteins. Protein purification essentially requires adsorbent matrices that have large pore size. Very large pore size or macroporous adsorbents can provide high efficiency in packed beds even at high flow rates on account of reduced pore diffusion resistance resulting from finite intraparticle flow in the macropores. This is reflected in leveling off of HETP (height equivalent to theoretical plate) versus flow curve after a threshold velocity. Expanded bed operation, on the other hand, can also show plateauing of the HETP curve, but not necessarily on account of macroporosity of adsorbent. It is shown in this article how any adsorbent intended for protein adsorption in expanded bed mode can give plateauing HETP curve, regardless of pore size. As a result, RTD measurements on an expanded bed can give equal, and at times better, performance than a corresponding packed bed. Large pore size, on the other hand, can result in lesser retention of biomass and easy flushing of the adsorbent to obtain an entirely particulate‐free adsorbent prior to the product elution step. Adsorbent with larger pores is also shown to provide faster and more efficient elution both in packed and expanded bed modes.
Free Sulfhydryl in Recombinant Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Zhang Wei , Czupryn Marta J.
Published: July 2002

Monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy applications have been growing rapidly in recent years. Like other recombinant protein drugs, therapeutic mAbapos;s need to be well characterized to ensure their structural and functional integrity. IgG mAbapos;s are composed of two heavy and two light chains covalently linked by interchain disulfide bonds. Each domain of the heavy or light chain contains one additional disulfide bond. Native IgG mAbapos;s, with completely formed disulfide bonds, should not bear any free sulfhydryl. This report describes detection and quantification of free sulfhydryl in recombinant mAbapos;s produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells using a fluorescent technique. The method utilizes the fluorescent probe N‐(1‐pyrenyl)maleimide (NPM). The purified mAbapos;s appear to be homogeneous under native conditions with approximately 0.02 mol of free sulfhydryl per mole of protein. Upon denaturation, minor species related to the mAbapos;s are observed on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), and the free sulfhydryl level is determined to be approximately 0.1 mol/mol of protein. These results suggest that a small portion of these recombinant mAbapos;s lack in intermolecular disulfide bonds but remain noncovalently associated under native conditions. The formation of the free sulfhydryl containing mAb species is likely to occur during the culture process and/or protein folding process in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
Polyarginine enters cells more efficiently than other polycationic homopolymers
Authors: Mitchell D.J. , Steinman L. , Kim D.T. , Fathman C.G. , Rothbard J.B.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: Homopolymers or peptides containing a high percentage of cationic amino acids have been shown to have a unique ability to cross the plasma membrane of cells, and consequently have been used to facilitate the uptake of a variety of biopolymers and small molecules. To investigate whether the polycationic character of these molecules, or some other structural feature, was the molecular basis for the effect, the ability of a variety of homopolymers to enter cells was assayed by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. Polymers of l‐ or d‐arginine containing six or more amino acids entered cells far more effectively than polymers of equal length composed of lysine, ornithine and histidine. Peptides of fewer than six amino acids were ineffective. The length of the arginine side‐chain could be varied without significant loss of activity. These data combined with the inability of polymers of citrulline to enter cells demonstrated that the guanidine headgroup of arginine was the critical structural component responsible for the biological activity. Cellular uptake could be inhibited by pre‐incubation of the cells with sodium azide, but not by low temperature (3 °C), indicating that the process was energy dependent, but did not involve endocytosis.
Effects of elevated carbon dioxide, ozone and water availability on spring wheat growth and yield
Authors: Pleijel Håkan , Gelang Johanna , Sild Ebe , Danielsson Helena , Younis Suhaila , Karlsson Per‐Erik , Wallin Göran , Skärby Lena , Selldén Gun
Published: July 2002

Spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Dragon) was exposed to elevated carbon dioxide (CO2), alone (1995) or in combination with two levels of increased ozone (O3) (1994) or increased irrigation (1996) during three successive growing seasons as part of the EU ESPACE‐wheat programme and conducted in open‐top chambers (OTCs) and ambient air (AA) plots at Östad, 50 km north‐east of Göteborg, Sweden. Doubling the CO2 concentration had a positive effect on grain yield in all 3 years (+21, +7 and +11%, respectively), although only statistically significant in 1994. That year was characterised by a warm and dry summer in comparison with 1995 and 1996, in which the summers were more humid and typical for south‐west Sweden. In 1994, the CO2‐induced increase in grain yield was associated with an increase in the duration of the green leaf area, a positive effect on straw yield and on the number of ears per square metre and a negative effect (−13%) on grain protein concentration. Harvest index was unaffected by the elevated CO2 concentration. The only statistically significant effect of elevated CO2 in 1995 was a decrease in the grain protein concentration (−11% in both CO2 concentrations), and in 1996 an increase (+21%) in the straw yield. In 1996 the soil water potential was less negative in elevated CO2, which is likely to reflect a lower water consumption of these plants. Addition of extra O3 significantly affected the grain yield (−6 and −10%, respectively) and the 1 000‐grain weight negatively (−3 and −6%). Statistically significant interactions between CO2 and O3 were obtained for the number of ears per unit area and for the 1 000‐grain weight. The 1 000‐grain weight was negatively affected by O3 in low CO2, but remained unaffected in the high CO2 treatment. There was a significant decrease (−6%) in the grain protein concentration induced by elevated irrigation. The chambers, compared with AA plots, had a positive effect on plant development and on grain yield in all 3 years.
Phosphocholine synthesis in spinach: Characterization of phosphoethanolamine N‐methyltransferase
Authors: Smith David D. , Summers Peter S. , Weretilnyk Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2002

Phosphocholine is a precursor for phosphatidylcholine or it may be hydrolysed to choline. Choline can be oxidized to form the compatible osmolyte glycine betaine which is accumulated by many plants under conditions of osmotic stress. In Spinacia oleracea phosphocholine is synthesized by 3 sequential N‐methylations of phosphoethanolamine with the first step catalysed by the enzyme phosphoethanolamine N‐methyltransferase (EC 2.1.1.103). This enzyme has been partially purified 5400‐fold from spinach leaves using a combination of ammonium sulphate fractionation, followed by chromatographic separations on DEAE‐Sepharose, phenyl‐Sepharose, Ω‐aminohexyl‐agarose, Mono Q and adenosine‐agarose. Sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) separation and silver‐staining of the final preparation revealed several polypeptides present, only one of which with an estimated molecular mass of 54 kDa could be photoaffinity cross‐linked to the substrate [3H] S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine. HPLC gel permeation chromatography was used to obtain an estimate for the native molecular mass of 77 kDa. Enzyme activity was optimal at pH 7.8 in HEPES‐KOH buffer, it was inhibited by S‐adenosyl‐l‐homocysteine, phosphocholine, phosphate, Mn2+ and Co2+ but not by ethanolamine, methylethanolamine, dimethylethanolamine, choline, glycine betaine or Mg2+. Using phosphoethanolamine as substrate, the final preparation had a specific activity of 189 nmol mg−1 protein min−1. The reaction products were identified and their relative abundance estimated following separation by TLC as phosphomethylethanolamine (87%), phosphodimethylethanolamine (10%) and phosphocholine (2%). Thus, a highly purified preparation of phosphoethanolamine N‐methyltransferase was shown to catalyse 3 successive N‐methylations of phosphoethanolamine. Photoaffinity cross‐linking of proteins extracted from leaves of spinach followed by SDS‐PAGE and autoradiography shows that a 54‐kDa radiolabelled polypeptide was more prominent in extracts from salinized plants and barely visible in extracts from plants exposed to prolonged dark periods, a pattern which corresponds to the salt and light‐responsive changes in phosphoethanolamine N‐methylating activity. Thus, the production of phosphocholine for glycine betaine accumulation in spinach can be mediated by a single phosphobase N‐methyltransferase which is more abundant in salt‐stressed plants.
Laboratory evaluation of mouthguard material
Authors: Tran Don , Cooke Michael S. , Newsome Philip R. H.
Published: July 2002

Abstract – The aim of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, the EVA material (polyvinylacetate‐polyethylene copolymer) most commonly used in the fabrication of mouthguards and thus to help understand mouthguard performance and to improve mouthguard design. The material was tested for tensile strength, elongation, hardness and water absorption using specimens and tests described by the American Society for Testing and Materials Standards. Standard EVA sheets of 1, 2, 3 and 5 mm thickness were prepared. With increase in the thickness of the material, both the ultimate tensile strength and the elongation were decreased. The hardness and water absorption were unaffected. It was concluded that, overall, the thicker 5 mm EVA material was recommended for mouthguards as it displayed the least deformation to load and performed equally as well in the tests as other thicknesses.
Vertical root fracture treated by bonding fragments and rotational replantation
Authors: Kawai Keiji , Masaka Nobuo
Published: July 2002

Abstract – These case reports describe a new treatment method for complete vertical root fractures. This method is composed of two steps. First, the fractured tooth is intentionally extracted atraumatically, and then the separated fragments are bonded with an adhesive resin cement. The restored tooth is replanted by rotating approximately 180° into the original socket and fixing with an orthodontic wire. For both cases reported here, bone regeneration was observed at the 3‐year follow‐up. Since this modality adopts the respective advantages of both intentional replantation and adhesive treatment, it might be the treatment of choice in cases of vertical root fracture.
Coping with a child with disabilities from the parents’ perspective: the function of information
Authors: Pain H.
Published: July 2002

Fifteen semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 parents (n = 5 with both parents; n = 10 with mother only) of disabled children who had a range of physical and learning difficulties, to explore what information they had received about their child’s disabilities, from whom and whether they had found it useful. Information needs were also explored. The interviews were audiotaped and transcribed, then analysed for content. The reasons for needing the information was examined for themes. Personal communication was the most frequently cited medium of information. Parents most frequently reported professionals as their source of information, but parents and voluntary organizations were also mentioned. Information was found to assist the process of adjusting emotionally to their child’s disabilities, to enable parents to access services and benefits, and to improve their management of their child’s behaviour. Parents’ comments indicated that information was usually useful, but occasionally of mixed benefit.
Quantec SC rotary instruments versus hand files for gutta‐percha removal in root canal retreatment
Authors: Betti L. V. , Bramante C. M.
Published: July 2002

Aim

The purpose of this study was to compare Quantec SC rotary instruments and hand files for removal of gutta‐percha during retreatment.

Methodology

Twenty maxillary central incisors with a single straight canal were selected. The canals were instrumented and filled before the teeth were randomly divided into two groups of 10 specimens each. In group 1 Quantec SC rotary instruments were used for filling removal and in group 2, hand files and solvent. The following factors were evaluated: time taken to reach working length, time for gutta‐percha removal, total time, apically extruded material during filling removal and number of fractured instruments. Radiographs were taken and the teeth were grooved longitudinally and split. The canal walls of each half and the radiographs were evaluated visually for cleanliness. They were then digitized using a scanner and the residual debris assessed. The analysis was carried out in the cervical, middle and apical thirds separately as well for the whole canal.

Results

The time for root filling removal was significantly less when Quantec SC was used (P < 0.05). The amount of apically extruded material was not significantly different between the groups (P > 0.05). Direct evaluation of the canal walls revealed that hand files and solvent demonstrated better cleanliness in the cervical third and in whole canal (P < 0.05). Radiographic analysis demonstrated that hand files performed significantly better when viewed in a mesiodistal direction (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Although Quantec SC instruments took less time, hand instruments and solvent cleaned canals more effectively.
Non‐linear effects in moisture adsorption by chocolate
Authors: Antunes Antonio C. B. , Antunes Leila J.
Published: July 2002

Summary We show that the moisture adsorption by a chocolate film is best described by a non‐linear diffusion equation. We found an approximate analytical solution and determined the diffusion parameters by fitting this solution to experimental data. An adsorption experiment alone may be used to determine the moisture transmission properties of the material, significantly reducing the experimental effort.
Regulation of pro‐apoptotic leucocyte granule serine proteinases by intracellular serpins
Authors: Bird PI
Published: July 2002

Caspase activation and apoptosis can be initiated by the introduction of serine proteinases into the cytoplasm of a cell. Cytotoxic lymphocytes have evolved at least one serine proteinase with specific pro‐apoptotic activity (granzyme B), as well as the mechanisms to deliver it into a target cell, and recent evidence suggests that other leucocyte granule proteinases may also have the capacity to kill if released into the interior of cells. For example, the monocyte/granulocyte proteinase cathepsin G can activate caspases in vitro, and will induce apoptosis if its entry into cells is mediated by a bacterial pore‐forming protein. The potent pro‐apoptotic activity of granzyme B and cathepsin G suggests that cells producing these (or other) proteinases would be at risk from self‐induced death if the systems involved in packaging, degranulation or targeting fail and allow proteinases to enter the host cell cytoplasm. The purpose of the present review is to describe recent work on a group of intracellular serine proteinase inhibitors (serpins) which may function in leucocytes to prevent autolysis induced by the granule serine proteinases.