bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between Sevoflurane and Isoflurane for Controlled Hypotensive Anaesthesia in Patients undergoing Craniotomy for Supratentorial Intracranial Surgery: A Randomised Single-blinded Study
Authors: Rajmohan Tumulu Rao , Sunil Swain Kumar , Dilshad Kauser , Pranay Tumulu Kumar , Tanisha Garg , Amer Mohammed Mohiuddin
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The controlled hypotensive anaesthesia technique is widely used for decades to create a bloodless surgical field and decrease intraoperative blood loss during neurosurgical procedures. Inhalation agents like isoflurane and sevoflurane provide the benefit of being hypnotic and hypotensive agents at clinical concentrations and predictable dose-dependent effects made them popular in neurosurgery. Aim: To compare the effects of sevoflurane and isoflurane for producing controlled hypotensive anaesthesia in surgeries for supratentorial brain tumours. Materials and Methods: Sixty-six patients of either sex in the age group of 20-60 years, with American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) Grade I and II posted for elective craniotomy for supratentorial brain tumour under general anaesthesia were enrolled for this study. Patients were randomly allocated to two aesthetic regimens: Group I received isoflurane 1 Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC), and Group S received sevoflurane 1 MAC. The Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) was lowered to less than 100 mmHg before the skin incision and was maintained throughout the surgery.If the blood pressure was not maintained within the above-mentioned range, then injection propofol bolus dose of 20 mg was given intravenously. The quality of the surgical field, brain relaxation, blood loss, duration of surgery, and postoperative complications were compared. Time taken for onset and recovery of controlled hypotension and the requirement of propofol for maintaining controlled hypotension in both groups were also compared. Results: The group S had better brain relaxation (N=26 vs N=20), less blood loss (241.5±61.62 vs 380.65±203.9 mL), and a shorter duration of surgery (135.45±25.6 vs 171.4±60.5 minutes) than group I. Group S had a few patients who required propofol (5 vs 17) to maintain controlled hypotension. The mean time to achieve the target Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) and time to recovery was faster in group S (10.55±2.54 minutes) vs 15.35±0.99 minutes in group I and 12.95±3.24 minutes in Group S vs 17.85±2.21 minutes in Group I, respectively; p<0.001). Conclusion: Sevoflurane is a safer and more potent drug than isoflurane to achieve controlled hypotension during surgery for a supratentorial brain tumour.
Perfect i.i.d Processes
Authors: Basu Pathikrit
Published: July 2022

This note proves a theorem about i.i.d. i.e. independent and indentically distributed processes, when the index space is a measure space. The statement of the problem corresponding to the theorem proved in this paper appears in [1], in which the concept of a sample distribution limit corresponds to the concept of a perfect i.i.d process in this paper.Theorems proved in this theme, regarding existing and non-existence, have been shown in the economics literature, when the index set is [0; 1], in [2], [3], [4], [5]. The approach taken in thispaper is perhaps, surprisingly elementary. We may apply standard measure extension theorems to show existence. These may be found in [6], [7].
Toxicity Study of Nanoselenium on Seed Germination, Bacterial Growth and Fish Survivability
Authors: Priyanka A. S. , Djanaguiraman M. , Kalarani M. K. , Haripriya S.
Published: July 2022

Aim: The use of nanoparticles in agriculture has recently increased to sustain crop productivity. Therefore, the effect of nanoparticles on the different ecosystems must be quantified before their use. This study aimed to examine the toxicity potential of nanoselenium on the germination of sorghum seed, growth of soil microorganisms viz., Bacillus subtilis and Rhizobium species, and survival of zebrafish. We hypothesize that nanoselenium could be non-toxic to sorghum seed germination, bacillus and rhizobium growth, and zebrafish survival up to 20 mg L-1.

Study Design: Completely randomized design with four or five replications with respect to the experiments.

Place and duration of the Study: Department of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore

Methodology: Sorghum seeds BTx 623 were soaked in different concentrations (0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 mg L-1) of nanoselenium for 24 h and then sown in Petri-dish to quantify germination potential and seedling growth. The growth medium of microorganisms was challenged from 0 to 20 mg L-1 of nanoselenium, and the growth of microorganisms was assessed. Similarly, the survival of zebrafish from 0 to 20 mg L-1 of nanoselenium was recorded.

Results: The results showed that nanoselenium up to 20 mg L-1 did not cause toxic effects on all organisms representing soil, water and terrestrial ecosystems.

Conclusion: Hence, this study concluded that nanoselenium up to 20 mg L-1 is not harmful to organisms representing soil, aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
Response of NaCl and Brassinolide in Stevia rebaudiana under in vitro Condition
Authors: Singh Ankita , Dwivedi Padmanabh , Sahni Sangita , Prasad Bishun Deo
Published: July 2022

The current work sought to investigate the impact of two chemicals (NaCl and Brassinolide) on growth parameters, chlorophyll pigments in stevia shoots cultured under in vitro condition. For this, nodal explants of stevia were cultured for four weeks on MS medium supplemented with 0.2 mg l-1 BAP, Kinetin 0.2 mg l-1 and various concentrations of NaCl (0, 60, 70, 90, 120, 150 mM) and BL (0, 1, 2, 3 4, 5µM) for screening under in vitro condition. Explant treated with NaCl showed reduction with increasing salinity levels in all the studied parameters while explants treated with Brassinolide showed best results in all the studied parameters. From the results, it is concluded that the stevia plant was less impacted by 60mM and 70mM NaCl concentrations when compared to other concentrations of NaCl, but BL increased/improved all the examined parameters when compared to control; 1µM and 2µM concentrations of BL responded the best.
Residual Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Toria in North Central Plateau Zone of Odisha
Authors: Ray M. , Roul P. K. , Behera B. , Sahoo K. C. , Mishra N. , Das S.
Published: July 2022

A field experiment on "Planting pattern and nutrient management in rainfed sweet corn + cowpea system and its residual effect on succeeding toria" was conducted during the kharif and rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station, Keonjhar, Odisha. The experiment was laid down in Split plot design with three replications. The experiment was conducted to identify the suitable planting pattern and effect of nutrient management practices for enhancing production potentials of Sweet corn+ Cowpea and its effect on Toria. The treatments taken in this experiment consists of planting pattern with 3 levels i.e P1 : Sweet corn +Cowpea (1:1) in alternate rows, P2 : Sweet corn +Cowpea (2:2) in alternate paired rows and P3 : Sweet corn +Cowpea (1:1) in the same row and nutrient management practices with seven levels i.e. F1- STBFR to Sweet Corn , F2- Proportionate of STBFR of (Sweet Corn + Cowpea) based on population, F3- STBFR to Sweet Corn + Consortia biofertilizer , F4- 75% STBFR to Sweet Corn + STBFR to Cowpea based on population, F5- 50% STBFR of Sweet Corn + STBFR to Cowpea based on population, F6- 75% STBFR of Sweet Corn + STBFR to Cowpea based on population + Consortia biofertilizer, F7- 50 % STBFR of Sweet Corn + STBFR to Cowpea based on population + Consortia biofertilizer. Sweet corn variety 'Sugar 75', Cowpea variety 'Kashi kanchan' and Toria variety 'Anuradha' were used as test crops. The main objective of this experiment was to find out the residual effect on growth, yield attributes and yield of toria in the sequence. Before the harvest of the crop the observations on growth parameters were recorded. Height of the plant was taken at harvest and the number of leaves per plant were taken at an interval of , 45 and 60 days after sowing and number of primary and secondary branches per plant was recorded. After harvesting, yield attributes and yield (number of siliqua per plant, number of grains per siliqua, 1000 seed weight (gm), grain yield (t/ha), stover yield (t/ha), and harvest index (%)) were recorded. Planting of sweet corn + cowpea (2:2) in alternate paired rows(P2) with application of 75% STBFR of Sweet Corn + STBFR to Cowpea based on population + Consortia bio fertilizer to the preceeding maize + cowpea crop (F6) followed by STBFR of sweet corn and cowpea (F2) was suprior in terms of both yield and yield parameters.
Liposome Nano-particles for Therapeutic and Diagnostic Applications
Authors: Kumar Anil , Ravishankar K. , Varma Ajit Kumar , Prashar Deepak , Mohammed Jaffer Sadik , Billah A. Mohathasim
Published: July 2022

LNPs mix liposomes and inorganic/ organic nanoparticles. Liposomes and nanoparticles are therapeutic. LNPs are a research tool (e.g., spatiotemporal control of drug release, hyperthermia, photothermal therapy, and biological imaging). Nanoparticles determine LNP characteristics. Nanoparticles enable liposomes overcome weak stability, few functions, and fast blood elimination. Structure, physicochemical properties, modification, and biological uses of nanoparticle materials and LNPs are reviewed.
Propriedade Intelectual em Empresas Públicas: uma análise dos depósitos de marcas da Embrapa
Authors: Preto Glauber Adenir Soares , Franco Cíntia Brenner  Franco Brenner Acosta , Bruch Kelly Lissandra
Published: July 2022

A proposta deste artigo é mostrar os aspectos relevantes acerca do registro de marcas de uma empresa pública no Brasil, em especial, o panorama da Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária (Embrapa). O objetivo é analisar os dados que permeiam os pedidos de registro de marca no Brasil, as questões sobre como a empresa trabalha e a gestão desses ativos intangíveis para o desenvolvimento da empresa e do ambiente em que ela está inserida. Para o desenvolvimento da pesquisa, foi realizado um estudo de caso, de natureza exploratória e descritiva, com abordagem mista (quanti-qualitativa), por meio de entrevistas de colaboradores da instituição e por pesquisa nas principais bases de dados referentes à propriedade intelectual, entre os anos de 1970 até 2018, utilizando-se como termo de busca a denominação “Embrapa” na titularidade. Todas as plataformas pesquisadas apresentaram número crescente de pedidos ao longo dos anos. Na base do INPI, foram encontrados 484 pedidos de registro de marcas, sendo em sua maioria marcas nominativas. Pode-se concluir que é perceptível o avanço na proteção de marcas pela Embrapa, esse avanço pode se dar devido aos investimentos e às ações do mercado. Todavia, apesar de a empresa possuir um processo para encaminhamento de registro de marcas relativamente conhecido, esse procedimento não está documentado e verificou-se a necessidade de se realizar a documentação do processo, bem como a orientação e a capacitação das equipes para proteção e execução de forma correta dos procedimentos de registros de marcas junto ao INPI.
Up‐regulation of ICAM‐1 expression on human dermal fibroblasts by IFN β in the presence of TNF‐α
Authors: Horikoshi Takashi , Ezoe Kyori , Nakagawa Hidemi , Eguchi Hiroaki , Hanada Niro , Hamaoka Shuji
Published: July 2002

Unstimulated human fibroblasts show low or undetectable ICAM‐1 expression. Interferon‐beta (IFN‐β) at concentrations of 10,100, and 1000 IU/ml in the presence of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) significantly increased the ICAM‐I expression of fibroblasts in a dose‐dependent manner. Treatment with IFN‐β alone, however, did not up‐regulate the ICAM‐1 expression. Furthermore the attachment of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to cytokine‐treated fibroblasts was increased. This augmented attachment was partly inhibited by anti‐ICAM‐1 antibody. These results suggest that IFN‐β and TNF‐α may cooperatively modulate the attachment of PBMCs in the dermis.
Expression of type XVI collagen in cultured skin fibroblasts is related to cell growth arrest
Authors: Tajima Shingo , Akagi Atsushi , Tanaka Nobuhiko , Ishibashi Akira , Kawada Akira , Yamaguchi Noriko
Published: July 2002

The expression of type XVI collagen in various phases of cell growth in cultured skin fibroblasts was studied. A marked increase in type XVI collagen mRNA level was found in stationary phases of cell growth (non‐adherent and confluent phases), whereas the expression of type I and III collagens was undetectable in the non‐adherent phase but became greater in the confluent phase. When suspended cells were further cultured over 72 h (suspension arrest), mRNA level and gene transcription of type XVI collagen were time‐dependently increased whereas those of type I collagen remained undetectable. When the confluent cells were further cultured for 72 h under the condition of serum deprivation (serum deprivation arrest), mRNA levels of both type XVI collagen and type I collagen were elevated. The level of type XVI collagen polypeptide in the culture media of suspension‐arrested and serum deprivation‐arrested cells paralleled the mRNA level of type XVI collagen. The results indicate that expression of type XVI collagen (a member of the fibril‐associated collagens with interrupted triple helices), unlike interstitial collagens (type I collagen), is related to cell growth arrest brought about by two different growth inhibiting systems, suspension arrest and serum deprivation arrest.
Amylosucrase from Neisseria polysaccharea: novel catalytic properties
Authors: Potocki de Montalk Gabrielle , Remaud-Simeon Magali , Willemot René-Marc , Sarçabal Patricia , Planchot Véronique , Monsan Pierre
Published: July 2002

Amylosucrase is a glucosyltransferase that synthesises an insoluble α‐glucan from sucrose. The catalytic properties of the highly purified amylosucrase from Neisseria polysaccharea were characterised. Contrary to previously published results, it was demonstrated that in the presence of sucrose alone, several reactions are catalysed, in addition to polymer synthesis: sucrose hydrolysis, maltose and maltotriose synthesis by successive transfers of the glucosyl moiety of sucrose onto the released glucose, and finally turanose and trehalulose synthesis – these two sucrose isomers being obtained by glucosyl transfer onto fructose. The effect of initial sucrose concentration on initial activity demonstrated a non‐Michaelian profile never previously described.
Nerve growth factor induces sphingomyelin accumulation in pheochromocytoma cells
Authors: Piccinotti Alberto , Benaglia Giuliana , Bresciani Roberto , Zizioli Daniela , Presta Marco , Preti Augusto , Marchesini Sergio
Published: July 2002

The pheochromocytoma cells are a well‐known model for studying the nerve growth factor (NGF)‐induced molecular changes during the differentiation process. The involvement of sphingomyelin (SM) was studied using the fluorescent analogue of ceramide, i.e. N‐lissamine rhodaminyl‐(12‐aminododecanoyl) D‐erythro‐sphingosine (C12‐LRh‐Cer). This fluorescent analogue is metabolically active and can be used to follow the biosynthesis of SM in intact cells. NGF induces a 4‐fold increase of fluorescent SM content in PC12 cells, when loaded with C12‐LRh‐Cer. Treatment of PC12 cells with actinomycin D or cycloheximide completely abolishes the NGF‐induced elevation of SM. Inhibition of p140trkA receptor by AG‐879 prevents extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation and suppresses the increase of SM. Inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC), protein kinase A (PKA) and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase does not have any effect on NGF‐induced C12‐LRh‐SM accumulation. On the other hand, activation of PKA or PKC with simultaneous treatment with NGF has a synergistic effect on increase of SM content. The NGF‐induced SM increase in PC12 cells is an effect promoted by other differentiating agents like dibutyryl cyclic AMP or fibroblast growth factor‐2 but not by a mitogenic agent like epidermal growth factor.
The in vitro activity of ADAM‐10 is inhibited by TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐3
Authors: Amour Augustin , Knight C.Graham , Webster Ailsa , Slocombe Patrick M. , Stephens Paul E. , Knäuper Vera , Docherty Andrew J.P. , Murphy Gillian
Published: July 2002

A recombinant soluble form of the catalytic domain of human ADAM‐10 was expressed as an Fc fusion protein from myeloma cells. The ADAM‐10 was catalytically active, cleaving myelin basic protein and peptides based on the previously described ‘metallosheddase’ cleavage sites of tumour necrosis factor α, CD40 ligand and amyloid precursor protein. The myelin basic protein degradation assay was used to demonstrate that hydroxamate inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were also inhibitors of ADAM‐10. The natural MMP inhibitors, TIMP‐2 and TIMP‐4 were unable to inhibit ADAM‐10, but TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐3 were inhibitory. Using a quenched fluorescent substrate assay and ADAM‐10 we obtained approximate apparent inhibition constants of 0.1 nM (TIMP‐1) and 0.9 nM (TIMP‐3). The TIMP‐1 inhibition of ADAM‐10 could therefore prove useful in distinguishing its activity from that of TACE, which is only inhibited by TIMP‐3, in cell based assays.
VIP‐derived sequences modified by N‐terminal stearyl moiety induce cell death: the human keratinocyte as a model
Authors: Granoth Ruth , Fridkin Mati , Rubinraut Sara , Gozes Illana
Published: July 2002

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a recognized growth factor affecting many cell types. We have previously developed a series of lipophilic VIP analogues containing an N‐terminal covalently attached stearyl moiety. The current studies identified stearyl‐Nle17‐VIP and stearyl‐Nle17‐neurotensin6–11VIP7–28, acting at μM concentrations, as cytotoxic to human keratinocytes. The core C‐terminal active VIP‐derived peptide, stearyl‐Lys‐Lys‐Tyr‐Leu‐NH2 (St‐KKYL‐NH2), was identified as being responsible for the observed cytotoxicity. Cytotoxicity coincided with marked reduction in intracellular cyclic GMP and was abolished by co‐treatment with the endonuclease inhibitor, aurine‐tricarboxylic acid, suggesting apoptotic mechanisms. Stearyl‐VIP derivatives thus offer lead compounds for future drug development against hyperproliferative skin conditions.
Values and Electoral Decisions in the Czech Republic
Authors: Matějů Petr , Vlachová Klára
Published: July 2002

This article is an attempt to identify the role of politically relevant values and attitudes in voting behaviour in the Czech Republic. In view of the results of earlier analyses, which show there has been a process of intense crystallization of left–right political axis of the Czech political spectrum, this paper aims to demonstrate the specific roles of declared and value-based left–right political orientations, the effects of external and internal political efficacy, the feelings of anomie, and the required role of state. The analysis of data from the ISSP survey carried out at the end of 1996 shows that a person's declared position on the left–right axis of political orientation has far stronger influence on voting behaviour than does his or her position on the left–right scale based on socio-economic values traditionally underlying left–right political orientations. This difference indicates, among other things, that in the Czech Republic the declared right-wing political orientations so far acted as barrier to voting for left-wing political parties, for which people would likely vote if they voted according to their value-based left-wing orientations.
Critical Analysis of Lysozyme Refolding Kinetics
Authors: Buswell A. Mark , Middelberg Anton P. J.
Published: July 2002

The kinetics of lysozyme refolding and aggregation is studied using an existing competing first‐ and third‐order reaction scheme. The existing model overestimates yield at high refolding concentrations (>1 mg/mL), thus limiting its use for reactor design at industrially relevant refolding concentrations. This study demonstrates that a pathway exists for the incorporation of refolded native protein into aggregates. Specifically, native lysozyme labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate was added to the refolding buffer prior to dilution refolding of denatured and reduced lysozyme. Aggregates collected from these experiments showed significant fluorescence, indicating that labeled lysozyme had been incorporated into the aggregates during refolding. Although the precise pathway of incorporation has not been elucidated, it is clear from this work that the existing model for lysozyme refolding is not globally applicable. In particular, previous work has analytically demonstrated that neglect of a pathway from native to aggregate can result in the design of a grossly suboptimal reactor strategy. This study demonstrates that such a pathway can exist experimentally and emphasizes the need to critically assess refolding kinetic models before their use in reactor design equations.
Enhanced‐Rate Biodegradation of Organophosphate Neurotoxins by Immobilized Nongrowing Bacteria
Authors: Kim Jin‐Woo , Rainina Evguenia I. , Mulbry Walter W. , Engler Cady R. , Wild James R.
Published: July 2002

Pesticide wastes generated from livestock dipping operations containing the organophosphate (OP) insecticide coumaphos (CP) are well suited for disposal by biodegradation since they are highly concentrated (∼1 g/L), generally contained, and lack additional toxic components. In this study, a significantly enhanced efficiency of degrading CP in cattle dip waste (CDW) is reported using a dense, nongrowing cell population that functions without the addition of nutrients required for growing cell cultures. A recombinant strain of Escherichia coli containing the opd gene for organophosphate hydrolase (OPH), which is capable of active hydrolysis of OP neurotoxins including CP, was cultivated in a rich medium containing all essential nutrients. Cells were harvested and utilized in lab scale experiments in the form of either freely suspended cells or cells immobilized within a macroporous gel matrix, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) cryogel. Significantly higher degradation rates were achieved with either suspended or immobilized OPH+ cells compared to rates with the microbial consortium naturally present in CDW. Of the two nongrowing cell systems, the detoxification rate with immobilized cells was approximately twice that of freely suspended cells, and kinetic studies demonstrated that a higher maximum reaction rate was achieved with the immobilized cell system. A comparative study using both the CDW and pure CP substrates with free cells indicated that the CDW contained one or more factors that reduced the bioavailability of CP. The immobilized cells retained their activity over a 4‐month period of use and storage, demonstrating both sustained catalytic activity and long‐term mechanical stability.
Problems of Translating Heterologous Genes in Expression Systems: The Role of tRNA
Authors: Smith David W. E.
Published: July 2002

tRNA can have large effects on the expression and overexpression of heterologous genes in microbial expression systems through reduced translation and errors in amino acid sequences of protein products. Examples are given of large effects on gene expression related to tRNA content and to tRNA base modifications, both of which differ in heterologous expression systems compared to the cells from which the genes originally came. tRNA should be of greater concern in the expression of heterologous genes.
Adsorption Kinetics of Microbial Cells onto a Novel Brush‐Type Polymeric Material Prepared by Radiation‐Induced Graft Polymerization
Authors: Lee William , Furusaki Shintaro , Saito Kyoichi , Sugo Takanobu , Makuuchi Keizo
Published: July 2002

A novel brush‐type microbial‐cell‐adsorbing material was prepared by radiation‐induced graft polymerization. A vinyl monomer containing an epoxy group, glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), was first grafted onto a polyethylene‐based fiber before the introduction of a tertiary amino group, i.e., diethylamine (DEA). The grafted‐type DEA fibers prepared were then tested for their microbial‐cell‐adsorbing activity by contacting the fibers with a Staphylococcus aureus suspension. The DEA fibers showed adsorption ability of S. aureus, and the adsorption rate increased with increasing density of the DEA group. On the other hand, DEA was also introduced onto cross‐linked‐type GMA beads and its adsorption rate of S. aureus cells was compared with that of the grafted‐type DEA fibers. The grafted‐type DEA fibers exhibited an adsorption rate constant 1000‐fold greater than that of the cross‐linked‐type DEA beads. Observation by scanning electron microscopy showed that the shape of S. aureus cells adsorbed on the grafted‐type DEA fibers was intact whereas the shape of those adsorbed on the cross‐linked‐type DEA beads was difficult to identify.
Method for Construction of a Simple Laboratory‐Scale Nonwoven Filament Biocatalytic Filter
Authors: Flickinger Michael C. , Mullick Ashim , Ollis David F.
Published: July 2002

A method is described for constructing a simple laboratory‐scale nonwoven filament biocatalytic filter (FBF) from multilayer acrylic vinyl acetate copolymer coated thread (yarn) potentially useful for investigation of biotransformations using entrapped enzymes or viable microorganisms. The porous structure of a commercial 128 μm, 279 denier, 100% polyester thread was sealed with a latex coat (precoat), then coated with a latex + sulfanilamide‐azocasein mixture, and finally coated with a latex top coat to generate the multilayer coated thread. The FBF was constructed by drawing the thread across a 4 cm diameter rubber O‐ring in the form of multiple layers and sealing the layers with silicone sealer. The FBF is combatible with a commercially available filter housing containing a flow distrtibutor. A method for characterizing the permeability of the sealant (top) coat of the FBF using azocasein release was also developed.
Catalytic and Structural Properties of Surfactant‐Horseradish Peroxidase Complex in Organic Media
Authors: Kamiya Noriho , Inoue Masahito , Goto Masahiro , Nakamura Nobuhumi , Naruta Yoshinori
Published: July 2002

A surfactant‐horseradish peroxidase (HRP) complex that is catalytically active in organic media has been successfully prepared by a method utilizing water‐in‐oil (W/O) emulsions. To optimize conditions for preparation of the HRP complex, the effects of some key parameters in the aqueous phase of W/O emulsions were investigated. The surfactant‐HRP complex prepared with a nonionic surfactant exhibited a high catalytic activity compared to those with a cationic or anionic surfactant in anhydrous benzene. At the preparation step, the pH of the aqueous solution had a prominent effect on the enzymatic activity of the HRP complex in organic media. Several kinds of salts present in the HRP complex could be employed to enhance the catalytic performance in organic media. However, anionic ions present in the preparation process appeared to lower the catalytic activity owing to the complexation with heme iron. UV‐visible absorption spectra of the HRP complex in benzene, which were prepared from a KCN solution (pH 7.0) or an alkaline solution (pH 12), were comparable with those of native HRP in aqueous solution under the same conditions. Resonance Raman spectroscopic studies also revealed that no significant change in the coordination state of the heme iron occurred even after coating the enzyme with surfactant molecules, lyophilization, and solubilization in nonaqueous media.
Human Chymotrypsinogen B Production from Pichia pastoris by Integrated Development of Fermentation and Downstream Processing. Part 2. Protein Recovery
Authors: Thömmes Jörg , Halfar Markus , Gieren Holger , Curvers Simon , Takors Ralf , Brunschier Rainer , Kula Maria‐Regina
Published: July 2002

The purification of human chymotrypsinogen B (hCTRB) after expression and secretion by the yeast Pichia pastoris is described based on two different approaches using integrated initial recovery. Extraction employing aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPS) from poly(ethylene glycol) and sodium sulfate allows direct processing of cell containing yeast suspensions of 50% wet weight. The target protein is obtained partially purified in the top phase while cells and cell debris are partitioned to the bottom phase of the system. hCTRB is further purified by adsorption from the top phase to the cation exchanger SP Sepharose Big Beads and elution in a salt step. The single step isolation of hCTRB is possible by expanded bed adsorption (EBA) using a fluidized cation exchanger (Streamline SP XL). A design strategy is shown taking both target protein binding and stable fluidization of the stationary phase in cell containing suspensions into consideration. For the example of hCTRB isolation from cell containing P. pastoris suspensions, a successful use of this strategy is demonstrated. Both initial recovery strategies deliver a product that can be further purified and formulated by ultrafiltration/diafiltration followed by lyophilization, resulting in a homogeneous product. Scale‐up to 30−90 L of culture suspension was shown for both methods, resulting in a product of similar quality. Comparing both strategies reveals that the two‐step ATPS route is better suited for high cell density cultures, while the single step EBA method is preferred for cultures of moderate cell density. This is due to the fact that application of EBA is restricted to suspensions of 10−12.5% wet weight cell concentration, thus necessitating dilution of the original broth prior to sample application. The data presented show that integrated recovery operations are a valuable alternative to traditional processing for systems that are problematic during initial solid‐liquid separation.
A pilot study of combined immunotherapy with autologous adoptive tumour‐specific T‐cell transfer, vaccination with CD40‐activated malignant B cells and interleukin 2
Authors: Schultze J. L. , Anderson K. C. , Gilleece M. H. , Gribben J. G. , Nadler L. M.
Published: July 2002

Most B‐cell malignancies are incurable diseases and therefore warrant new therapeutic approaches. In a pilot study, we tested the feasibility and safety of combined immunotherapy consisting of adoptive transfer of autologous tumour‐specific T cells, low‐dose interleukin 2 (IL‐2) and a cellular vaccine of CD40‐activated plasma cell leukaemia (PCL) cells in a patient who failed tandem repeat stem cell transplantation and idiotype vaccination. Autologous tumour‐specific T cells for adoptive T‐cell transfer were propagated in vitro by repetitive stimulation with autologous ex vivo CD40‐activated PCL cells. CD40‐activated PCL cells for vaccination were similarly generated ex vivo by co‐culture with CD40 ligand transfectants. Autologous T cells (5 × 108 and 2·5 × 109 for two separate treatment cycles) generated ex vivo and cytotoxic against autologous tumours were infused and well tolerated by the patient. Fever and myalgias were closely related to IL‐2 injections and no other adverse effects were observed. A temporary decrease of PCL cells in peripheral blood was seen after the first cycle of adoptive T‐cell therapy, tumour cell vaccination and low‐dose IL‐2. Tumour progression was associated with tumour cells that (1) expressed a complex karyotype, (2) demonstrated loss of MHC class II, and (3) did not induce autologous tumour‐specific T‐cell lines ex vivo. We demonstrated the safety and feasibility in combining autologous tumour‐specific T‐cell therapy with low‐dose IL‐2 and that clinical trials based on the use of CD40‐activated autologous tumour cell vaccines are warranted in patients with CD40‐activated autologous tumour cells, either as a vaccine or for ex vivo stimulation of autologous T cells.
Assisting demented patients with feeding: problems in a ward environment. A review of the literature
Authors: McGillivray Tom , Marland Glenn R.
Published: July 2002

Assisting demented patients with feeding: problems in a ward environment. A review of the literature

A critical review of the literature on assisting demented patients with feeding difficulties identifies that care at mealtimes is often task‐centred, causing stress in both patients and staff and inadequate patient care. Nurses may even be inducing dependency in this vulnerable patient group. The staff to whom this care is most often delegated do not receive sufficient education or training to enable them to achieve a sufficient degree of empathy with the patient although there is evidence in the literature to suggest that this is a necessary requirement. It is also apparent that nurses use inadequate assessment criteria, perhaps due to the fact that there is an element of commonality in the feeding behaviour of demented patients which nurses feel they have seen many times and are able to deal with. The introduction of primary nursing, increased education of nursing assistants and improved assessment procedures to combat these problems are recommended. The process of change is briefly outlined and in conclusion some areas for future research are stated.
A novel mutation in the hepatocyte nuclear factor‐1α/MODY3 gene in Chinese subjects with early‐onset Type 2 diabetes mellitus in Taiwan
Authors: Jap T. ‐S. , Wu Y. ‐C. , Chiou J. Y. , Kwok C. ‐F.
Published: July 2002

Aims The goal of this study was to determine the frequency of mutation in hepatic nuclear factor (HNF)‐1α, a gene recently implicated as causing maturity‐onset diabetes of the young (MODY) and to analyse the respective clinical presentations in an ethnically Chinese population.

Methods Fifteen unrelated subjects (nine females and six males) aged less than 35 years who had early‐onset diabetes were analysed to test the possibility that mutation of the HNF‐1α gene was responsible for this disorder. Genomic DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequence analysis were performed accordingly.

Results One patient with MODY had a novel missense mutation in exon 3 of the HNF‐1α gene (Y218C) in a region of the protein that corresponds to a predicted DNA binding domain.

Conclusions A Y218C mutation in HNF‐1α gene was identified in one family in Taiwan.
New Phytologist in North America
Authors: Ayres Peter
Published: July 2002

The number of papers submitted to New Phytologist by authors working in North America has increased significantly in recent years. We are now able to offer those authors a better service because, from this month, they will be able to submit their papers direct to our new USA Office – this is being supervised by one of our Editors, Richard Norby, and is located at Oak Ridge, Tennessee:

New Phytologist USA Office, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Bldg 1059, PO Box 2008, Oak Ridge, TN 37831‐6422, USA. Tel: +1 423 576 5261. Fax: +1 423 576 9939. E‐mail: newphytol@ornl.gov.
The new ARIA guidelines: putting science into practice
Authors: Bousquet J.
Published: July 2002

Allergic rhinitis is a worldwide health problem, which can greatly interfere with the quality of life of affected patients. Allergic conjunctivitis and asthma often accompany rhinitis. Unlike asthma, allergic rhinitis does not affect the physical activities of sufferers. However, rhinitis does impair the mental and social activities as much as any associated asthma. In view of the considerable adverse impact of allergic rhinitis on the life of affected individuals, treatment must be optimal. The efficacy of the range of available medications has been evaluated on the basis of scientific evidence, especially that derived from randomized controlled trials. From the collated information, guidelines have been formulated – the Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) guidelines. Drugs with confirmed efficacy (antihistamines, topical cromones and steroids) have been used to treat patients with intermittent or persistent allergic rhinitis. Patients should be treated with a stepwise approach, using increasingly powerful therapy for symptoms of increasing severity. It is necessary to emphasize that patients must be treated as an entity, so that not only the allergic rhinitis but also any accompanying conjunctivitis or asthma are treated.
A Long‐term Open‐Label Study of Oral Almotriptan 12.5 mg for the Treatment of Acute Migraine
Authors: Mathew Ninan T. , For The Oral Almotriptan Study Group
Published: July 2002

Objective.—Evaluate the long‐term tolerability of almotriptan 12.5 mg for the treatment of acute migraine attacks occurring over a 6‐month period.

Background.—Almotriptan is a second‐generation 5‐HT1B/1D agonist that exhibits vascular selectivity for meningeal arteries and has demonstrated efficacy for the treatment of acute migraine in short‐term controlled trials.

Methods.—This was a 6‐month open‐label study. Adults (18 years of age or older) were required to have a diagnosis of acute migraine with or without aura (according to the diagnostic criteria of the International Headache Society), a history of at least 1 year of moderate‐to‐severe migraine pain with at least two and a maximum of six migraines per month, and at least 24 hours of freedom from head pain between attacks. Patients were instructed to take a single 12.5‐mg dose of almotriptan at the onset of a migraine attack. If migraine pain did not disappear in 2 hours, escape medication could be taken; if relapse occurred in less than 24 hours, a second 12.5‐mg dose could be taken. Tolerability was assessed from the nature and incidence of all adverse events, and efficacy was assessed according to the end point of pain relief 2 hours following almotriptan administration.

Results.—Of 585 patients treated, 582 were included in the intent‐to‐treat population. The most frequent drug‐related adverse events were nausea (3.1%) and dizziness (2.4%). No serious drug‐related adverse events were reported, and no deaths occurred. Adverse events led to discontinuation of treatment in 36 patients (6.2%). Drug‐related chest pain was reported in 9 patients (1.5%). Seventy‐six percent of patients achieved pain relief at 2 hours for all attacks treated, and 49% were pain‐free at 2 hours. After a second dose of almotriptan 12.5 mg, pain relief was achieved in 87% of attacks, and 59% were pain‐free. Pain relief and pain‐free rates were higher among those with moderate baseline pain.

Conclusions.—When taken at attack onset, almotriptan 12.5 mg is well tolerated, safe, and effective for the long‐term treatment of acute migraine.
Determination of cytokine mRNA-expression in term human placenta of patients with gestational hypertension, intrauterine growth retardation and gestational diabetes mellitus using polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Wilhelm S. , Müller H. , Briese V. , Bittorf T. , Brock J. , Heinig J.
Published: July 2002

Objective: Our objective was to test the hypothesis, that pregnancy-related diseases are going along with changes in cytokine mRNA-expression at the placental site, either as a part of a pathological process or in connection with regulatory mechanisms induced by disturbances at the feto-maternal interface resulting from previous pathological changes – in the sense of counterregulation. Material and methods: The cytokines chosen for this investigation are known to 1.) be expressed in the human placental tissue, 2.) to be involved in immunological processes and 3.) the regulation of growth and differentiation processes of different cell types of the placenta or decidua, 4.) to play a role in the angiogenesis at the feto-placental interface and 5.) to be involved in pathological processes in other human diseases. 32 samples derived from term human placentas were examined for messenger RNA levels of interleukin 1 alpha (Il-1α), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), platelet derived growth factor-A chain (PDGF-A), platelet derived growth factor-B chain (PDGF-B), and platelet derived growth factor receptor (PDGF-R) using a semiquantitative reverse transcriptase (RT) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol. To calibrate samples in our procedure, β-actin mRNA (messanger ribonucleid acid) known as a “house keeping” gene was proven to be constantly expressed. The sample-groups consisted of normal pregnancies (n = 8), gestational hypertension (GH, n = 7), intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR, n = 6), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM, n = 5), and gemini (n = 3 × 2). Results: Throughout the 32 samples, a significant correlation between PDGF-A and PDGF-R expression, PDGF-A and TNF-alpha expression was stated (p = 0.007). Compared with the pattern of expression in normal placentas, placentas of growth retarded pregnancies had higher Il-1α mRNA (p = 0.016), PDGF-A (p = 0.029) and PDGF-B (p = 0.001) levels. The samples of the gestational hypertension group and placentas of patients with gestational diabetes displayed a significantly stronger PDGF-R mRNA signal (p = 0.0029 and p = 0.008). Conclusions: Though these marked differences in cytokine mRNA levels between clinical groups were statistically proven, clear correlation of these differences with clinical data was not found.
Ultrastructural Observations on the Rust Fungus Puccinia malvacearum in Malva sylvestris ssp. mauritiana
Authors: Classen B. , Amelunxen F. , Blaschek W.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: Our investigations show the structure of the intracellular mycelium of the rust fungus, Puccinia malvacearum, in leaves of Malva sylvestris ssp. mauritiana. Some intracellular structures of the fungus pass through, others end in the host cells. Fungal infection leads to an increase in the number of mucilage cells in the leaves; but mucilage production does not stop fungal growth. In contrast, the fungus is able to invade mucilage cells without any sign of fungal degradation.
High-frequency resonance in acoustic superlattice of LiNbO3 crystals
Authors: Zhu Yong-yuan , Ming Nai-ben , Jiang Wen-hua , Shui Yong-an
Published: July 2002

The relationship between the resonance frequency and the periodicity of the acoustic superlattice of LiNbO3 crystals has been obtained by analysis of the excitation and propagation of elastic waves in this kind of material with which high-frequency resonance in the range of 500–800 MHz has been realized experimentally. The experimental results are in good agreement with the theoretical ones. The applications of acoustic devices operating at frequencies high above 500 MHz are to be expected.
Structural properties of ultrathin arsenic-doped layers in silicon
Authors: Denhoff M. W. , Jackman T. E. , McCaffrey J. P. , Jackman J. A. , Lennard W. N. , Massoumi G.
Published: July 2002

We have grown δ-doped layers in Si by low-energy As-ion implantation during molecular beam epitaxy. The layers were investigated using cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy, secondary-ion mass spectrometry, Rutherford backscattering, and electrical measurements. The δ-doped layers were between 3.5 and 5.5 nm thick, and showed perfect epitaxy with 50–80% of the incorporated As on substitutional sites. Layers doped at concentrations from 1×1013 cm−2 to 8×1013 cm−2 had bulk-like mobilities and spanned the metal to insulator transition.
Electromagnetic shock-wave generation in a lumped element delay line containing nonlinear ferroelectric capacitors
Authors: Wilson C. R. , Turner M. M. , Smith P. W.
Published: July 2002

High-voltage waveforms with rise times of 50 ns were produced by electromagnetic shock-wave generation in a uniform, lumped element delay line constructed with nonlinear, ferroelectric capacitors. A close correlation was found between the experimental voltage waveforms observed at different positions along the delay line and those predicted by a numerical computer code.
Ion-beam sputtering deposition of fluoropolymer thin films
Authors: Quaranta F. , Valentini A. , Favia P. , Lamendola R. , d’Agostino R.
Published: July 2002

It is shown that it is possible to deposit thin films with various CFx composition (1.26≤x≤1.83) by ion-beam sputtering. These materials with ‘‘teflon-like’’ composition have been deposited at room temperature by Ar ion-beam sputtering of a teflon target; the film chemical composition has been determined by electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis. The fluorine-to-carbon ratio of the films, as well as their crosslinking degree, is shown to depend on the energy of the ions impinging on the target.
Laser dye impregnation of oxidized porous silicon on silicon wafers
Authors: Canham L. T.
Published: July 2002

Electrochemically etched silicon wafers can be utilized as transparent host matrices for a variety of luminescent media. Highly efficient (≳1%) photoluminescence across the entire visible range is demonstrated here using organic-dye-activated porous glass layers on Si wafers. Coumarin, xanthene, and oxazine dyes are used to obtain blue, green, yellow, and red emission at room temperature. Photopumped tunable lasers that can be integrated with silicon circuitry should be attainable with this approach.
Spatial variations in the charge density of argon discharges in the Gaseous Electronics Conference reference reactor
Authors: Overzet Lawrence J. , Hopkins Michael B.
Published: July 2002

The spatially dependent ion and electron concentrations of argon discharges in the gaseous electronics conference reference reactor reach a saddle point maximum in the center of the glow. The concentrations were measured using a Langmuir probe. The charge density decreases in the axial direction from the glow center to the electrode sheath edges as expected. In contrast, the charge density increases in the radial direction from the glow center to the radial electrode edge. The maximum occurs approximately 1 cm inside of the actual electrode edge. The most plausible explanation for this increase is enhanced ionization at the electrode edges due to field enhancement there. The electric field is enhanced by the close proximity of the ground shield and driven electrode at the radial edge of the electrode. We estimate that the ionization rate in the plasma near the electrode edge must be almost double of that in the glow center.
Tetragonal zirconia growth by nanolaminate formation
Authors: Scanlan C. M. , Gajdardziska-Josifovska M. , Aita C. R.
Published: July 2002

Multilayer films of polycrystalline zirconia and amorphous alumina were grown by reactive sputter deposition and characterized using x-ray diffraction and high resolution electron microscopy. We demonstrate that the layer spacing can be scaled to insure nanosize crystallites in the zirconia layer. The result is that nanolaminates with a high volume fraction of retained tetragonal zirconia are produced, independent of deposition parameters and without the addition of a stabilizing dopant.
Electromigration instability: Transgranular slits in interconnects
Authors: Suo Z. , Wang W. , Yang M.
Published: July 2002

Evidence has recently accumulated that an interconnect under intense electric current can fail by a transgranular slit. A rounded void first forms, enlarges, and drifts. When the void becomes sufficiently large, a narrow slit emerges at the expense of the void, running across the linewidth. In this letter we describe a physical mechanism that explains this instability. Both electric current and surface energy drive atoms to diffuse on the void surface, but in the opposite directions. The slit emerges if the electric current prevails. An approximate analysis shows how the slit selects its width and velocity.
Cavity ring-down optical spectrometer for absorption measurements using pulsed laser sources
Authors: O’Keefe Anthony , Deacon David A. G.
Published: July 2002

We have developed a technique which allows optical absorption measurements to be made using a pulsed light source and offers a sensitivity significantly greater than that attained using stabilized continuous light sources. The technique is based upon the measurement of the rate of absorption rather than the magnitude of absorption of a light pulse confined within a closed optical cavity. The decay of the light intensity within the cavity is a simple exponential with loss components due to mirror loss, broadband scatter (Rayleigh, Mie), and molecular absorption. Narrowband absorption spectra are recorded by scanning the output of a pulsed laser (which is injected into the optical cavity) through an absorption resonance. We have demonstrated the sensitivity of this technique by measuring several bands in the very weak forbidden b1Σg−X3Σg transition in gaseous molecular oxygen. Absorption signals of less than 1 part in 106 can be detected.