bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Education on Integral Development: A case study of early Missionary Education in Colonial
Authors:   St. Paul's University, Onyango Emily
Published: February 2025

The central argument of this paper is that Christian missions played a key role in transformation
and development in colonial Kenya. This was mainly through mission education. The main aim
of mission education was evangelism or bringing people to the knowledge of Christ. They were
convinced that if a person was converted to Christianity it would bring holistic change and
development. The aim of education was closely tied with the agenda of development within the
society. The main target was to bring holistic change. The main agenda of the missionaries was
to create a middle class. The first focus was literacy work, mainly academic education with an
aim of creating Christian leaders who would lead and transform society. Most of the people
educated in the mission school became the educationists, administrators, clergy and politicians
or members of the Local native councils and the legislative assembly. The other focus was
religious education. The main focus of Christian religious education. The main focus of
Christian religious education was to create values which would assist people to bring change.
The focus was on a curriculum which would enhance integrity, an important element of
transformation. Religious education also enhanced a Christian work ethic, which was very key to
development. Another focus of religious education was transformation of culture, leading to the
formation of African Christian culture, as culture is very key to development. Another major
focus of mission education was imparting skills and vocational training. The missions were key
to imparting new farming methods and giving new seeds plus encouraging the growth of cash
crops. The missions through education imparted skills on carpentry, masonry and other fields.
They also trained people for different professions, and were also chief employers, hence they
played a key role in economic development. The mission churches were therefore key players in
spiritual, social, economic and political development.
Key Words: Mission, Education, and Development
Women Empowerment And Unmet Need for Family Planning in Kenya
Authors:   Daystar University, Ndwiga Margaret , Koome Peter ,   St. Paul's University
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the association between unmet need for family planning and women’s empowerment in Kenya. The association was examined using bivariate and multivariate analysis of the 2008-2009 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey data. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict the likelihood of women experiencing unmet need for family planning when exposed to different empowerment variables. Women’s employment and mode of payment emerged as a significant predictor of unmet need after controlling for the confounding effects of all the other variables, including age, education, type of residence, region of residence, and wealth. Women who worked in the year preceding the survey but were not paid, had 37 percentlower odds for having unmet need compared with the reference group of women who did not work. Similarly, women who were paid in cash onlyas well as those who were paid in kind only or in cash and in kind had 28percent and 55percent lower odds of having unmet need respectively compared with those who did not work. Thus women’s work status isa significant factor inexplaining differences in unmet need.Experience of spousal violence emerged as a significant predictor of unmet need for family planning after removing the husband/partner control variable from the model, implying that there could exista relationship between husbands’ controlling behaviour and women’s experience of spousal violence, both factors considered in the literature as contributing to disempowerment of women.The paper recommends the need to address factors influencing access to family planning services in order to reduce current levels of unmet need. At programme level, the study also recommends formation and/or strengthening of programmes focusing on women’s empowerment.
Key words: Kenya Women’s Empowerment; Reproductive Health; Unmet Need For Family;

Women Employment Status; Women Decision Making
Institutional repositories in Kenya: The case of the Kenya Library and Information Services Consortium member Libraries.
Authors:   St. Paul's University, Gichiri Peter , Ng’etich K. F. ,   University of Kabianga, Omwoha N. J. ,   The Technical University of Kenya, Maina Jane ,   Kisii University
Published: February 2025

Billions of shillings worth of domestic researches are conducted every year in Kenya, endup in library shelves and office drawers in the institutions and arerarely disseminated.As a result, immediate steps must be taken to share the research output for development. A major recent innovation in research sharing within the domain of libraries isinstitutional repositories. In 2011, cumulatively of over 65% of libraries in Kenya had embraced or were in the process of establishing digital repositories in their institutions while 35% had not.Thisstudy aimed atestablishingthe currentstatus of institutional repositories in Kenya.This study used Diffusion of innovation Theory (DOI)to develop a theoretical framework to guide the study andmixed method design to collect and analyze data from sample of111 Institutional repository administrators purposively sampled. SoGoSurvey, an online platform was used to collect and analyze the results real-time as received from respondents. It also presented the analyzed data in tables, totals, percentages, charts and graphs. The findings revealed that the Kenyan Government had a stake for the successes of the implementation of digital institutional repositories since majority of libraries in KLISC were government institutions. The findings also showed that digital repositories were managed by librariansin different library departments and not necessarily digital repository librarians.The high rate of repository managers with other designations was alsoaclear sign that repository management had not acquired a fully recognized professional status in Kenya. In addition,the results indicated that although majority of KLISC member libraries had established or were in the process of establishing institutionalrepositories, there were still a sizable number of libraries that are yet to develop institutional repositories.
Key Words: Institutional Repositories, Libraries, Consortium
Sound-Based Light Control System in The Ship's Room With Uno Arduino
Authors: Kurniawan Edi , Adnin Nanda Pratama Maverik , Eddi Eddi
Published: February 2025

Technological advances have given us many advantages, electronic devices and new procedures. Technological advances can also have negative side impacts if not used appropriately and correctly. In particular, it covers risks arising from careless use of electricity and accidents in the workplace. The research method used is research and development; data is obtained by carrying out direct observations on the tools when assembled. With this sound-based system for turning on the lights, you will be able to control the turning on and off of the lights just by sound, which means you can find out whether the lights are on or off and will be given information via a 16x2 LCD which has been programmed on the Arduino UNO to detect frequencies. The sound sensor on the system receives sound.
NTP Server Design as a Mitigation of Time Difference at Perum LPPNPI Kendari Branch
Authors: Pambudiyatno Nyaris , Kurniawan Putra Muh. Rayhan , Pragolo Argo
Published: February 2025

In the world of aviation, it takes the right time, time synchronization is very important for the aviation system. If the time of the flight telecommunication facility is out of sync or out of sync, the flight data will be chaotic, so it is not known when the aircraft will land. If the time is not synchronized, data on accident incidents will be difficult to find. This research method uses an Microcontroller connected to the Network Time Protocol Server through internet media, then the Network Time Protocol Server generates time data in the form of Coordinate Universal Time. The Microcontroller functions as a server on the device that will perform time synchronization, and the Network Time Protocol Server data  has accurate time accuracy. In the event of a time shift it will be compensated by the Microcontroller.
Modeling and Simulation of Static Strength Railway Bogie Bolster Using Ansys Workbench
Authors: Wirawan Willy , Zulkarnain Akbar , Satrio Utomo Ilham , Sabilil Rouf Muhammad , Aizuddin Bin Azari Muhammad , Prasetijo Joewone
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to ensure that plastic deformation does not occur on the structure of bolster bogie 1722 when it accommodates burdens or loads based on previously determined overload limit. The simulation in this study used the finite element method with the help of Ansys Workbench 2020. The standard of testing UIC 515-4 was employed as a reference for the simulation, notably in determining the load case. The result of static simulation on the overload showed that the maximum stress on the vertical load case was 72.764 MPa, and the maximum stress on the transverse and vertical load case (combination) was 109.9 MPa. The result of maximum vertical deflection was obtained from the case of vertical load as 0.553 mm and in the case of transverse and vertical load (combination) as 1.799 mm. The structure of the bolster design is considered safe because the maximum score of stress was under the yield strength score of the used material, namely SS400 as 245 Mpa.
RED 2024-(wl 7349)-From integration to fragmentation: False pursuit of technocratic and quick-fix solutions to address water scarcity
Authors: Tiwale Sachin , Sankar Vinay
Published: February 2025

In recent years, Maharashtra, a pioneering state in developing the integrated watershed development approach, has shifted to technocratic, quick-fix, and fragmented approaches to address water scarcity. Ignoring past policy experiences, these approaches, driven by techno-optimism and reliant on machine-led interventions, neglect associated social processes and basic hydrological principles, thereby rendering them ineffective in addressing water scarcity issues. Similar trends in many states across the country make this issue a matter of great concern. While a bottom-up, integrated approach with demand-side measures may seem time-consuming, it remains the only sustainable solution for tackling this issue.
Carta aos Romanos: Destinatários e propósitos
Authors: Bazaglia Paulo
Published: February 2025

O artigo propõe uma audiência codificada exclusivamente gentílica para a carta aos Romanos e busca sintetizar os propósitos da carta com um olhar para a situação de Paulo em Corinto (ou arredores) e outro para as comunidades romanas de meados da década de 50 do primeiro século. Situa-se nos esforços por restituir concretitude ao mais extenso texto paulino que, ao longo dos séculos, vem sendo lido como tratado teológico universal marcadamente antijudaico. A partir das contribuições sobretudo de Thorsteinsson, Stowers e Mortensen, propõe-se a diferenciação entre uma audiência codificada exclusiva e outra real inclusiva para Romanos; apresentam-se então, do ponto de vista literário, os elementos que apontam para esta audiência codificada, com o recurso à diatribe; por fim, a partir sobretudo de Grieb, busca-se uma síntese sobre os propósitos da carta.
A filiação no helenismo, nas cartas paulinas e no direito de família atual
Authors: Da Silva Valmor , Ferreira Joel Antônio , Silva Lusvaldo de Paula e
Published: February 2025

O artigo discute o conceito de filiação ou adoção filial, a partir do termo grego hyouthesía, que se refere à adoção de um estranho como filho legítimo, com direitos plenos à herança e à manutenção da família. A análise busca as origens do conceito no mundo greco-romano, expondo as práticas na instituição grega e na legislação romana. Concentra-se sobre o uso do termo filiação nas cartas paulinas, com a singularidade de cinco ocorrências únicas em toda a Bíblia (Rm 8,15.23; 9,4; Gl 4,5; Ef 1,5). Em seguida, aplica os mesmos fundamentos da adoção à legislação brasileira atual, que reconhece a filiação do afeto em condições idênticas à filiação do sangue, denominada filiação socioafetiva. Defende a hipótese segundo a qual o reconhecimento pleno de adoção filial proposto pelo apóstolo Paulo encontra correspondência na prática jurídica brasileira atual da filiação socioafetiva. Espera, como resultado teórico e prático, nova compreensão da adoção em vista do amor familiar.
Regeneration following tissue necrosis is mediated by non-apoptotic caspase activity
Authors: Klemm Jacob W , Van Hazel Chloe , Harris Robin E
Published: February 2025

Tissue necrosis is a devastating complication for many human diseases and injuries. Unfortunately, our understanding of necrosis and how it impacts surrounding healthy tissue – an essential consideration when developing effective methods to treat such injuries – has been limited by a lack of robust genetically tractable models. Our lab previously established a method to study necrosis-induced regeneration in the
Drosophila
wing imaginal disc, which revealed a unique phenomenon whereby cells at a distance from the injury upregulate caspase activity in a process called Necrosis-induced Apoptosis (NiA) that is vital for regeneration. Here we have further investigated this phenomenon, showing that NiA is predominantly associated with the highly regenerative pouch region of the disc, shaped by genetic factors present in the presumptive hinge. Furthermore, we find that a proportion of NiA fail to undergo apoptosis, instead surviving effector caspase activation to persist within the tissue and stimulate reparative proliferation late in regeneration. This proliferation relies on the initiator caspase Dronc, and occurs independent of JNK, ROS or mitogens associated with the previously characterized Apoptosis-induced Proliferation (AiP) mechanism. These data reveal a new means by which non-apoptotic Dronc signaling promotes regenerative proliferation in response to necrotic damage.
UBR-1 deficiency leads to ivermectin resistance in C. elegans
Authors: Li Yi , Gong Long , Wu Jing , Hung Wesley , Zhen Mei , Gao Shangbang
Published: February 2025

Resistance to anthelmintics, particularly the macrocyclic lactone ivermectin (IVM), presents a substantial global challenge for parasite control. We found that the functional loss of an evolutionarily conserved E3 ubiquitin ligase, UBR-1, leads to IVM resistance in
Caenorhabditis elegans
. Multiple IVM-inhibiting activities, including viability, body size, pharyngeal pumping, and locomotion, were significantly ameliorated in various
ubr-1
mutants. Interestingly, exogenous application of glutamate induces IVM resistance in wild-type animals. The sensitivity of all IVM-affected phenotypes of
ubr-1
is restored by eliminating proteins associated with glutamate metabolism or signaling: GOT-1, a transaminase that converts aspartate to glutamate, and EAT-4, a vesicular glutamate transporter. We demonstrated that IVM-targeted GluCls (glutamate-gated chloride channels) are downregulated and that the IVM-mediated inhibition of serotonin-activated pharynx Ca
2+
activity is diminished in
ubr-1
. Additionally, enhancing glutamate uptake in
ubr-1
mutants through ceftriaxone completely restored their IVM sensitivity. Therefore, UBR-1 deficiency-mediated aberrant glutamate signaling leads to ivermectin resistance in
C. elegans
.
Force transmission through the inner kinetochore is enhanced by centromeric DNA sequences
Authors: Miedlar Elise , Hamilton Grace E , Witus Samuel R , Gonske Sara , Riffle Michael , Zelter Alex , Klevit Rachel E , Asbury Charles L , Dimitrova Yoana N , Davis Trisha N
Published: February 2025

Previously, we reconstituted a minimal functional kinetochore from recombinant
S. cerevisiae
proteins that was capable of transmitting force from dynamic microtubules to nucleosomes containing the centromere-specific histone variant Cse4 (Hamilton et al. 2020). This work revealed two paths of force transmission through the inner kinetochore: through Mif2 and through the Okp1/Ame1 complex (OA). Here, using a chimeric DNA sequence that contains crucial centromere-determining elements of the budding yeast point centromere, we demonstrate that the presence of centromeric DNA sequences in Cse4-containing nucleosomes significantly strengthens OA-mediated linkages. Our findings indicate that centromeric sequences are important for the transmission of microtubule-based forces to the chromosome.
Structure and Cl- Conductance Properties of the Open State of Human CFTR
Authors: Zeng Zhi-Wei , Ing Christopher E , Pomès Régis
Published: February 2025

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is an anion channel that plays a vital role in water and ion secretion on epithelial surfaces. Loss of function in CFTR causes the life-threatening disease cystic fibrosis (CF). The functionally open state of CFTR has so far eluded detailed structural characterization. Although multiple near-atomic resolution structures of CFTR have been solved under conditions that promote channel opening, they all lack a continuous ion conduction pathway. In recent molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, structural fluctuations of human CFTR in a hydrated lipid bilayer led to the observation of transient Cl
-
conducting states, but the stability and conduction properties of these putative open states were not established. Here, we conduct massively repeated simulations initiated from these Cl
-
permeable conformations. Reproducible structural relaxation of the pore leads to a stable open conformation featuring five symmetrically arranged pore-lining helices. Unlike previously reported structures, this novel penta-helical arrangement reproduces experimentally determined properties of the open pore, including a Cl
-
conductance close to that measured at physiological voltages. Together, our results support the validity of this newly identified pore conformation as a model of the fully open channel. Detailed analysis highlights the role of cationic pore-lining residues in the Cl
-
permeation mechanism and suggests that the kinks observed in several transmembrane helices play a role in channel gating.
Nordic Reindeer Husbandry Conference 2025, 12-14 February, Alta, Norway
Authors: Wagner Gabriela , Skarin Anna , Wiklund Eva
Published: February 2025

Climate change, increasing land use pressures on the use of land, challenges and necessary adaptation are factors that lead to uncertainty for reindeer husbandry in the future. In collaboration with NKJ (The Nordic Joint Committee for Agricultural and Food Research) and RUF (Reindriftens utviklingsfond), NIBIO (Norwegian Institute for Bioeconomy) invites to a reindeer husbandry conference at Scandic Hotel Alta, 12th – 14th February 2025. The main topics of the conference are climate change and challenges of current and future land use. The conference will be divided into two parts: Part 1 (12th – 13th February) is mainly for researchers and is held in English but is also open to others. Part 2 (13th – 14th February) targets reindeer herders, administration/management and researchers, but others with an interest in reindeer husbandry can participate. Translation will be provided.
Lightweight-CancerNet: a deep learning approach for brain tumor detection
Authors: Raza Asif , Iqbal Muhammad Javed
Published: February 2025

Detecting brain tumors in medical imaging is challenging, requiring precise and rapid diagnosis. Deep learning techniques have shown encouraging results in this field. However, current models require significant computer resources and are computationally demanding. To overcome these constraints, we suggested a new deep learning architecture named Lightweight-CancerNet, designed to detect brain tumors efficiently and accurately. The proposed framework utilizes MobileNet architecture as the backbone and NanoDet as the primary detection component, resulting in a notable mean average precision (mAP) of 93.8% and an accuracy of 98%. In addition, we implemented enhancements to minimize computing time without compromising accuracy, rendering our model appropriate for real-time object detection applications. The framework’s ability to detect brain tumors with different image distortions has been demonstrated through extensive tests combining two magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) datasets. This research has shown that our framework is both resilient and reliable. The proposed model can improve patient outcomes and facilitate decision-making in brain surgery while contributing to the development of deep learning in medical imaging.
Integrative taxonomy reveals three new species and one new record of Psychropotes (Holothuroidea, Elasipodida, Psychropotidae) from the Kermadec Trench region and the Wallaby-Zenith Fracture Zone
Authors: Xiao Yunlu , Zhang Haibin
Published: February 2025

The holothuroid genus Psychropotes is the largest genus in the family Psychropotidae. Prior to this study, this genus contained 20 accepted species and was prominent representatives in the deep-sea benthic fauna at lower bathyal-abyssal depths throughout the global oceans, but it has been poorly studied in the hadal zone. Deep-sea holothuroids were collected in October 2022 to March 2023 by the joint China-New Zealand deep-diving scientific expedition to the Kermadec Trench in the South Pacific Ocean and the Wallaby-Zenith Fracture Zone in the East Indian Ocean at a depth of 6,018–6,605 m. Our examination of specimens of Psychropotes revealed three new species, which we described as Psychropotes diutiuscauda sp. nov., Psychropotes nigrimargaria sp. nov., and Psychropotes asperatus sp. nov. We also recorded Psychropotes depressa (Théel, 1882) for the first time from the Kermadec Arc at a depth of 1,620 m. We provide comprehensive descriptions of the morphological features and a taxonomic key for the genus Psychropotes. We also performed a phylogenetic analysis of the order Elasipodida based on COI sequences and the concatenated 16S-COI sequences. Intraspecific and interspecific genetic distances were calculated among Psychropotes Species based on COI sequences. Our phylogenetic analyses supported the assignment of three new species to the genus Psychropotes and their differentiation from congeners. The geographical distribution and global depth range of psychropotid species were summarized, and the results showed that the Pacific region had the highest species diversity. These findings contribute to the taxonomic diversity and patterns of geographical distribution in the family Psychropotidae.
Integrated multiomics analysis highlights the immunosuppressive role of granulin precursor positive macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Jun , Huang Weizhen , Kuang Junjie , Zhou Siwei , Li Yi , Xia Yuan
Published: February 2025

It has been reported that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a complicated role in cancer occurrence and development, immune escape, and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) resistance. However, the role of granulin precursor (GRN) highly expressed macrophages (hereafter refer to GRN+ macrophages) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains poorly understood. Herein, we systematically integrated multiomics analysis of human tumor tissues to illustrate the functional role of GRN+ macrophages in HCC. GRN is selectively expressed by TAMs in different type of cancers including HCC, and was significantly associated with poor prognosis in several type of cancer. GRN was closely correlated with infiltration levels of most immune cells, especially the M2 macrophage cells in various cancers. In particular, both mRNA and protein expression level of GRN was significantly upregulated in HCC. Compared with tumor tissue, GRN was more significantly expressed in the stroma area between HCC tissues and adjacent non-tumor tissues. High expression of GRN was significantly correlated with M2-polarization of macrophages and T-cell exhaustion in HCC. GRN+ macrophages communicated with intratumoral immune cells, especially CD8+ T cells. Functionally, GRN+ macrophages contacted with CD8+ T cells, which inducing T-cell exhaustion. Our study offers a comprehensive understanding of the clinical relevance and immunological role of GRN+ macrophages in HCC, indicating its potential role as a promising target for immunotherapeutic strategies.
Potential role of ghrelin in neuroprotection and cognitive function: implications for diabetic cognitive impairment
Authors: Zhang Yuhan , Zhang Ruihua , Wang Xin , Shi Leilei , Zhu Hongzhe , Liu Jiping
Published: February 2025

Ghrelin is a class of brain and intestinal peptides. It regulates food intake and body glucose levels and maintains cellular homeostasis. In recent years, research has revealed that ghrelin may positively impact learning and memory. Despite ghrelin’s multiple functions in the central nervous system, its use as a therapeutic agent for neurologic dysfunction remains unclear. Diabetic cognitive impairment (DCI) is a severe neurological complication of diabetes mellitus. Its incidence is increasing as a comorbidity in endocrinology and neurology. Additionally, it is a risk factor for Alzheimer’ s disease (AD). Ghrelin levels are altered in patients with diabetes mellitus combined with cognitive impairment. Furthermore, modulation of ghrelin levels improved cognitive function in rats with DCI. These findings suggest the potential therapeutic importance of ghrelin in the pathogenesis of DCI. This article presents a comprehensive review of the pathogenesis of DCI and its potential modulation by ghrelin and its mimics. Furthermore, this study elucidates the therapeutic prospects of ghrelin and its mimics for DCI, aiming to identify novel therapeutic targets and research avenues for the prevention and management of DCI in the future.
Ethnobotanical Study of Plants Used in the Treatment of Dysmenorrhoea in Traditional Medicine in Manjo, Littoral-Cameroon
Authors: MAKEMTEU Junelle , DIFFO Nidele DEMAZE , TAJEUKEM Vice Clotexe , NZEUWA Irma Belinda YOSSA , NGOUANA Vincent , Esther NGADJUI
Published: February 2025

Aim: An ethnobotanical survey was carried out in the city of Manjo with the aim of identifying the different uses of plants used in the treatment of Dysmenorrhea.
Methodology and Results: An ethnobotanical study was carried out among one hundred and ninety-two women and seven traditional health practitioners in the city. Twenty-five plant species divided into twenty-three (23) genera and nineteen (19) families were listed. The most represented family is Asteraceae (12%). Eremomastax speciosa (17.05%) and Myrianthus arboreus (12.50%) are the most requested species. Phytochemical tests were carried out on these two species using the standard procedures described by Brunetton (1999) and revealed the presence of several chemical compounds in all the drugs. The most abundant were alkaloids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthraquinones, coumarins and anthocyanins. Leaves were the most commonly used organs (52%). Decoction (44%) is the most common method of preparation for the majority of medicinal recipes. The oral route is the only one used for all recipes.
Conclusion: These results can be considered as a source of information for scientific research in the field of phytochemistry and pharmacology.
A Review on Green Solvents for Sustainable Pigment Extraction from Floral Sources
Authors: Anand Prativa , A.K.Rajeev  , Singh Markandey
Published: February 2025

The study of extracting colorants from flowers appeals to researchers because flowers generate visually appealing results while offering health benefits and industrial utility in food production and medical fields. The usage of modern extraction systems which require toxic organic solvents creates both environmental risks and health concerns. This study evaluates the effectiveness of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES), ionic liquids, and supercritical fluids as eco-friendly alternatives to toxic solvent systems used for pigment extraction. The solvent systems meet green chemistry protocols while providing more effective solutions that protect health and the environment. Pigment quality remains stable while output increases thanks to extraction methods combined with sonication, microwave and enzyme technologies. New research on carotenoids, anthocyanins and betalains with updated extraction techniques shows how green solvents fulfill their potential role in pigment extraction. The current laboratory evidence shows limitations as scientists struggle to scale up production volumes for profitable operation methods which also adhere to industrial specifications. Making sustainable industrial methods effective for pigment extraction from floral sources needs the resolution of both technical and commercial obstacles.
Discharge Coefficient of the Pivot Weir: A Review
Authors: Obaida Arwa A. Mala , Altalib Azza N.
Published: February 2025

Weirs are one of the structures that are used for flow measurements. A pivot weir is one of these structures. It may be defined as a thin rectangular plate that tilts at different angles from the vertical axis placed in the middle of the channel. The current study was conducted to identify the studies that used this type of weir to discharge coefficient investigation. The results referred to reducing discharge coefficient in lateral contractions and increases as the weir inclination angle increases. Research has also demonstrated that the discharge coefficient is lower when two neighbouring weirs are used with the same inclination angle than when they are used with different angles. The results also show that the shape of the crest of the semi-circular pivot weir increases the value of the coefficient of discharge compared to the shape of the sharp and circular crest.
Assessment of Precipitating Factors for Substance Dependence among Substance Users
Authors: Kokate Rajshri Balasaheb , Chandekar Pratibha Arun
Published: February 2025

Background: Substance use is when someone consumes alcohol or drugs Substance use does not always lead to addiction; many people occasionally use alcohol or certain drugs without being addicted. However, substance use always comes with the risk that it might lead to addiction, Substance abuse, meanwhile, is when a person consumes alcohol or drugs regularly, despite the fact that it causes issues in their life.
Objectives: To assess precipitating factors for causation of substance dependence among substance dependents in Aurangabad City and To find the association between precipitating factors for causation of substance dependence and the selected demographic variables among substance dependents in Aurangabad City.
Methodology: The research methodology adopted for the study was quantitative research approach. The investigator used non experimental univariant descriptive method for the present study. The study was conducted in deaddiction units, psychiatric and mental healthcare unit. Accessible population was all the substance dependents who were available during the course of the study. 500 samples were selected with the help of non-probability convenient sampling as per inclusion criteria from the selected areas. Semi structured questionnaire, Likert scale and open-ended questions was developed for the study.
Result: The majority 33.3% of samples were from age 21-30 years, 32.7% of them from 31-40 years, The 82.80% of the samples from group were males and 17.20% of the samples were females. 36.80% of them had secondary education, 29.60% of them were graduates. The highest percentage 37.80% of them were employed, 31.20% of them were unemployed. distribution of the samples according to their family monthly income that majority 21.60% of them had income Rs. 20,001/- 30,000/-, another 17.20% of them had family income above Rs. 40000. 28.40% of them were single, 52.10% of them were married. The highest percentage 36.4% of them were alcohol dependent, 34.4% of them had mixed dependence. Among respondent highest percentage 64.8% of them were Urban and 35.2% of them were rural.  
Conclusion: The study will help to find out various precipitating factors for causation of substance dependence.
Donor and acceptor splice signals within an exon of the human fibronectin gene: a new type of differential splicing
Authors: Vibe-Pedersen Karen , Magnusson Staffan , Baralle Francisco E.
Published: July 2002

We have sequenced that area of a human fibronectin gene clone which codes for a connecting strand separating the last two areas of the type III homology. The gene has a complex exon with two ‘AG’ acceptor sites. One of these can be used (exon subdivision). In addition 93 basepairs inside the exon are sometimes spliced out as an intron. This is the third differential splicing found in the fibronectin gene transcript and it represents a new type of differential splicing.
Wortmannin inhibits transcytosis of dimeric IgA by the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor
Authors: Cardone Michael , Mostov Keith
Published: July 2002

Phosphatidyl inositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) plays an essential role in numerous signaling events, and increasingly has been implicated in regulation of certain membrane traffic events. The polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) transcytoses dimeric IgA (dIgA) across epithelial cells and into external secretions, where the dIgA forms the first specific immunological defense against infection. We show here that wortmannin, a highly specific inhibitor of PI3K, inhibits transcytosis of dIgA by the pIgR. Instead, the dIgA is recycled back to the basolateral surface of the epithelial cell. PI3K therefore plays an essential role in regulating the transcytosis of dIgA, a key step in the mucosal immune response.
Human glutathione dependent prostaglandin E synthase: gene structure and regulation
Authors: Forsberg Lena , Leeb Lisa , Thorén Staffan , Morgenstern Ralf , Jakobsson Per-Johan
Published: July 2002

A P1 clone containing the gene for human glutathione dependent PGE synthase (PGES) was isolated and characterized. The gene is divided into three exons, spans 14.8 kb and was localized to chromosome 9q34.3. In A549 cells, the protein and activity levels of PGES were increased by interleukin‐1β. This increase was prevented by phenobarbital. Reporter constructs containing the 5′‐flanking region of exon 1, which exhibited strong promoter activity, responded accordingly, except that interleukin‐1β induced a transient increase followed by a decrease. As cyclooxygenase 2 expression has been reported to respond in a similar fashion, a transcriptional regulatory basis for the observed co‐regulation with PGES is implied. The strong down‐regulation by phenobarbital raises important issues concerning its mechanisms of action.
Excitatory amino acids and neurodegeneration: a hypothetical role of calcium precipitation
Authors: Rodrı́guez M.J. , Bernal F. , Andrés N. , Malpesa Y. , Mahy N.
Published: July 2002

Activation of excitatory amino acid (EAA) receptors can induce neurodegeneration by two major mechanisms of excitotoxicity, one related to the influx of Na+, Cl− and water, and the other to the increase in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i). Thus, acute microinjection of EAAs in several areas of the central nervous system (CNS) has been used to produce neurodegenerative models. We studied the excitotoxic pattern associated with acute microinjection of AMPA in rat hippocampus, medial septum‐diagonal band of Broca (MS‐DBB), prefrontal cortex and retina. In all cases progressive neuronal loss, glial reaction and development of intra‐ and extracellular calcium concretions were observed. However, a CNS‐area differential vulnerability was revealed, as shown by the specific atrophy of MS‐DBB and its limited calcification. Whether calcium deposits are a defensive mechanism against the massive increment of free cytoplasmatic calcium is discussed on the basis of ultrastructural data and previous results.
Characterization and analysis of biphalin: an opioid peptide with a palindromic sequence
Authors: Hettiarachchi K. , Ridge S. , Thomas D.W. , Olson L. , Obi C.R. , Singh D.
Published: July 2002

Abstract:Among the many opioid peptides developed to date as nonaddictive analgesics, biphalin has exhibited extraordinary high potency and many other desirable characteristics. Biphalin is an octapeptide consisting of two monomers of a modified enkephalin, attached via a hydrazine bridge, and with the amino acids assembled in a palindromic sequence. Its structure is (Tyr‐d‐Ala‐Gly‐Phe‐NH‐)‐2. However, this unique peptide, like any other synthetic peptide, needs strict quality control because of certain drawbacks associated with peptide synthesis. This paper discusses our approaches to characterizing and analyzing biphalin. Many techniques were used, including elemental analysis, amino acid analysis, amino acid sequence analysis (AASA), mass spectrometry (MS),1H‐NMR,1H‐correlated spectroscopy (COSY)‐NMR, high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE). Electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry, which included both ESI‐MS and ESI‐MS/MS, was performed to confirm the full sequence because AASA results alone verified only the monomer sequence, and not the full sequence. Although the1H‐NMR results led to a preliminary assignment of many protons, the1H COSY‐NMR results allowed for unequivocal assignment of almost all protons. Peptide purity was determined using two techniques, reversed‐phase HPLC and CE. The counter‐ion of the peptide, trifluoroacetic acid, was determined by CE, using an indirect detection method developed previously in our laboratory. This paper illustrates successful application of nonconventional techniques to characterize and analyze a structurally modified peptide, biphalin, when standard techniques for peptide analysis are inadequate.
Stability and CTL activity of N‐terminal glutamic acid containing peptides
Authors: Beck A. , Bussat M.‐C. , Klinguer‐Hamour C. , Goetsch L. , Aubry J.‐P. , Champion T. , Julien E. , Haeuw J.‐F. , Bonnefoy J.‐Y. , Corvaia N.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: Several cytotoxic T lymphocyte peptide‐based vaccines against hepatitis B, human immunodeficiency virus and melanoma were recently studied in clinical trials. One interesting melanoma vaccine candidate alone or in combination with other tumor antigens, is the decapeptide ELA. This peptide is a Melan‐A/MART‐1 antigen immunodominant peptide analog, with an N‐terminal glutamic acid. It has been reported that the amino group and γ‐carboxylic group of glutamic acids, as well as the amino group and γ‐carboxamide group of glutamines, condense easily to form pyroglutamic derivatives. To overcome this stability problem, several peptides of pharmaceutical interest have been developed with a pyroglutamic acid instead of N‐terminal glutamine or glutamic acid, without loss of pharmacological properties. Unfortunately compared with ELA, the pyroglutamic acid derivative (PyrELA) and also the N‐terminal acetyl‐capped derivative (AcELA) failed to elicit cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity. Despite the apparent minor modifications introduced in PyrELA and AcELA, these two derivatives probably have lower affinity than ELA for the specific class I major histocompatibility complex. Consequently, in order to conserve full activity of ELA, the formation of PyrELA must be avoided. Furthermore, this stability problem is worse in the case of clinical grade ELA, produced as an acetate salt, like most of the pharmaceutical grade peptides. We report here that the hydrochloride salt, shows higher stability than the acetate salt and may be suitable for use in man. Similar stability data were also obtained for MAGE‐3, another N‐terminal glutamic acid containing CTL peptide in clinical development, leading us to suggest that all N‐terminal glutamic acid and probably glutamine‐containing CTL peptide epitopes may be stabilized as hydrochloride salts.
Sexual Imprinting on a Novel Adornment Influences Mate Preferences in the Javanese MannikinLonchura leucogastroides
Authors: Witte Klaudia , Hirschler Ulrike , Curio Eberhard
Published: July 2002

We investigated whether sexual imprinting on an artificial novel adornment in the Javanese MannikinLonchura leucogastroides, a monomorphic estrildid finch, can occur and might provide a mechanism for the evolution of novel traits. We introduced a red feather on the forehead as a novel adornment. Young were raised by parents which were both adorned, which were both unadorned, or only one of which was adorned with the red feather. We tested the female and male offspring of those parents in mate choice tests with an adorned and unadorned conspecific of the opposite sex. Males raised by an adorned mother or adorned parents preferred adorned females significantly more often than males raised by unadorned parents. We conclude that males were sexually imprinted on the red feather. Females raised by an adorned mother or raised by adorned parents significantly preferred adorned males, whereas females raised by unadorned parents showed no preference for adorned males. Thus, females also became imprinted on the red feather. Males might learn the novel adornment in combination with the parent's sex or learn just the most conspicuous sex, whereas females showed a preference for the adornment independent of which sex bore the feather. Our study shows that sexual imprinting might be an effective mechanism for the evolution of a novel trait and that males and females might become imprinted on a novel trait in different ways.
Pain during mammography: Implications for breast screening programmes
Authors: Andrews Fiona J
Published: July 2002

Pain experienced during mammography can deter women from attending for breast cancer screening. Review of the current literature on pain experienced during mammography reveals three main areas of interest: reports of the frequency of pain, identification of predictors of pain and strategies for responding to pain. Implications of this literature for breast screening programmes include the need for appropriate measurements of pain during mammography that are valid for screening populations, a further understanding of organizational factors involved in screening programmes that may be predictors of pain and for the development of valid strategies for responding to pain within breast screening programmes.
Geldanamycin induces heat shock proteins in brain and protects against focal cerebral ischemia
Authors: Lu Aigang , Ran Ruiqiong , Parmentier‐Batteur Sophie , Nee Alex , Sharp Frank R.
Published: July 2002

Geldanamycin (GA), a benzoquinone ansamycin, binds Hsp90 in vitro, releases heat shock factor (HSF1) and induces heat shock proteins (Hsps). Because viral and transgenic overexpression of Hsps protects cells against ischemia in vitro, we hypothesized that GA would protect brain from focal ischemia by inducing Hsps in vivo. Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to 2‐hour middle cerebral artery occlusions (MCAO) using the suture technique followed by 22‐h reperfusions. GA or vehicle was injected into the lateral cerebral ventricles (i.c.v) 24 h before ischemia. Geldanamycin at 1 µg/kg decreased infarct volumes by 55.7% (p < 0.01) and TUNEL‐positive cells by 30% in cerebral cortex. GA also improved behavioral outcomes (p < 0.01) and reduced brain edema (p < 0.05). Western blots showed that the 1 µg/kg GA dose induced Hsp70 and Hsp25 protein 8.2‐fold and 2.7‐fold, respectively, by 48 h following administration. Immunocytochemistry showed that GA induced Hsp70 in neurons and Hsp25 in glia and arteries in cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and other brain regions. GA reduced co‐immunoprecipitation of HSF1 with Hsp90 in brain tissue homogenates, promoted HSE‐binding of HSF in brain nuclear extracts using gel shift assays, and increased luciferase reporter gene transcription for the Hsp70 promoter in PC12 cells. The data show that geldanamycin protects brain from focal ischemia and that this may be due, at least in part, to geldanamycin stimulation of heat shock gene transcription.
Quantitative Assessment of Seizure Severity for Clinical Trials: A Review of Approaches to Seizure Components
Authors: Cramer Joyce A. , French Jacqueline
Published: July 2002

Summary: Quantitative assessment of seizure severity has been approached using a variety of systems. This review describes currently available methods and possible new approaches to seizure assessment for clinical trials. A review of the literature on methods of seizure assessments resulted in tabulation of the seizure rating scales known as VA, Chalfont‐National Hospital, Liverpool, Hague, and the Occupational Hazard Scale. Seizures have been evaluated by simply counting all events, counting events by type, by clinician ratings, patient ratings, and combinations. Each of the scales has advantages and disadvantages. Most scales share core components: seizure frequency, seizure type, seizure duration, postictal events, postictal duration, automatisms, seizure clusters, known patterns, warnings, tongue biting, incontinence, injuries, and functional impairment. This review revealed a partial consensus about aspects of seizures that are important markers for severity. However, usefulness of the existing scales is limited by lack of data on responsiveness. New approaches are needed to assess changes in seizure severity as a result of an intervention in a clinical trial.
A Detailed Analysis of Frontal Lobe Seizure Semiology in Children Younger Than 7 Years
Authors: Fogarasi András , Janszky József , Faveret Eduardo , Pieper Tom , Tuxhorn Ingrid
Published: July 2002

Summary:  Purpose: We sought to analyze semiology of seizure onset and evolution in young children with frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE), compare this with adult reports, and assess age‐related differences.

Methods: We analyzed 111 videotaped seizures from 14 patients with FLE based on focal cortical dysplasia aged 3–81 months (mean, 30 months). Ictal events were categorized into behavioral, consciousness, autonomic, and sensory features, as well as motor patterns, which included tonic, clonic, epileptic spasm, and myoclonic seizure components. We developed a time‐scaled datasheet to record each epileptic event as onset, very early, early, or late manifestation.

Results: Patients had a high seizure frequency with up to 40 attacks/day; half of them showed a cluster tendency. Forty‐seven percent of the seizures started in sleep. Mean duration of seizures was short (29 s). Most common seizure components were motor manifestations, mostly tonic–clonic seizures, and epileptic spasms. Behavioral change was frequent, and hypermotor seizures were not seen. In five patients, the motor features were contralateral to the epileptic focus, including two children with asymmetric epileptic spasms. Secondarily generalized tonic–clonic seizures (SGTCSs) were not recorded, but had been reported in the history of two patients. Complex motor automatisms were not seen, whereas oral automatism appeared in three children.

Conclusions: Motor features are common in young children with FLE, as reported in adults. The characteristics, however, differ. Epileptic spasms and subtle behavioral change were frequent. Hypermotor seizures and complex motor automatisms were not seen, and SGTCSs were unusual. Our results suggest that FLE in young children shows age‐related features differing from those of adults.