bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the functional connectivity of ecosystem services supply across a regional landscape
Authors: Field Rachel D , Parrott Lael
Published: February 2022

Sustainably managing multifunctional landscapes for production of multiple ecosystem services (ES) requires thorough understanding of the interactions between ES and the ecological processes that drive them. We build upon landscape connectivity theory to present a spatial approach for assessing functional connections between multiple ES at the landscape scale, and take a closer look at the concept of ES interactions by explicitly representing the mechanisms behind the relationships between ES. We demonstrate application of the approach using existing ES supply mapping data for plant agriculture, waterflow regulation, and landscape aesthetics and map the functional connectivity between them. We find that, when weights of all linkages were amalgamated, areas of high-value connectivity are revealed that are not present on any individual ES supply area or pairwise link maps, which suggests that the spatial focus of planning for optimal service provisioning may shift when functional relationships between several ES are considered. From water flow supply areas, our modeling maps several functional connections that operate over both short and long distances, which highlights the importance of managing ES flows both locally and across jurisdictions. We also found that different land use and land cover types than those associated with ES supply areas may be serving as critical corridors connecting interdependent ES. By providing spatial information on ES connectivity, our approach enables local and regional environmental planning and management to take full consideration of the complex, multi-scale interactions between ecological processes, land use and land cover, and ecosystem service supply on a landscape.
A neuronal theta band signature of error monitoring during integration of facial expression cues
Authors: Dias Camila , Costa Diana , Sousa Teresa , Castelhano João , Figueiredo Verónica , Pereira Andreia C. , Castelo-Branco Miguel
Published: February 2022

Error monitoring is the metacognitive process by which we are able to detect and signal our errors once a response has been made. Monitoring when the outcome of our actions deviates from the intended goal is crucial for behavior, learning, and the development of higher-order social skills. Here, we explored the neuronal substrates of error monitoring during the integration of facial expression cues using electroencephalography (EEG). Our goal was to investigate the signatures of error monitoring before and after a response execution dependent on the integration of facial cues. We followed the hypothesis of midfrontal theta as a robust neuronal marker of error monitoring since it has been consistently described as a mechanism to signal the need for cognitive control. Also, we hypothesized that EEG frequency-domain components might bring advantage to study error monitoring in complex scenarios as it carries information from locked and non-phase-locked signals. A challenging go/no-go saccadic paradigm was applied to elicit errors: integration of facial emotional signals and gaze direction was required to solve it. EEG data were acquired from twenty healthy participants and analyzed at the level of theta band activity during response preparation and execution. Although theta modulation has been consistently demonstrated during error monitoring, it is still unclear how early it starts to occur. We found theta power differences at midfrontal channels between correct and error trials. Theta was higher immediately after erroneous responses. Moreover, before response initiation we observed the opposite: lower theta preceding errors. These results suggest theta band activity not only as an index of error monitoring, which is needed to enhance cognitive control, but also as a requisite for success. This study adds to previous evidence for the role of theta band in error monitoring processes by revealing error-related patterns even before response execution in complex tasks, and using a paradigm requiring the integration of facial expression cues.
Characterizing the suckling behavior by video and 3D-accelerometry in humpback whale calves on a breeding ground
Authors: Ratsimbazafindranahaka Maevatiana N. , Huetz Chloé , Andrianarimisa Aristide , Reidenberg Joy S. , Saloma Anjara , Adam Olivier , Charrier Isabelle
Published: February 2022

Getting maternal milk through nursing is vital for all newborn mammals. Despite its importance, nursing has been poorly documented in humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). Nursing is difficult to observe underwater without disturbing the whales and is usually impossible to observe from a ship. We attempted to observe nursing from the calf’s perspective by placing CATS cam tags on three humpback whale calves in the Sainte Marie channel, Madagascar, Indian Ocean, during the breeding seasons. CATS cam tags are animal-borne multi-sensor tags equipped with a video camera, a hydrophone, and several auxiliary sensors (including a 3-axis accelerometer, a 3-axis magnetometer, and a depth sensor). The use of multi-sensor tags minimized potential disturbance from human presence. A total of 10.52 h of video recordings were collected with the corresponding auxiliary data. Video recordings were manually analyzed and correlated with the auxiliary data, allowing us to extract different kinematic features including the depth rate, speed, Fluke Stroke Rate (FSR), Overall Body Dynamic Acceleration (ODBA), pitch, roll, and roll rate. We found that suckling events lasted 18.8 ± 8.8 s on average (N = 34) and were performed mostly during dives. Suckling events represented 1.7% of the total observation time. During suckling, the calves were visually estimated to be at a 30–45° pitch angle relative to the midline of their mother’s body and were always observed rolling either to the right or to the left. In our auxiliary dataset, we confirmed that suckling behavior was primarily characterized by a high average absolute roll and additionally we also found that it was likely characterized by a high average FSR and a low average speed. Kinematic features were used for supervised machine learning in order to subsequently detect suckling behavior automatically. Our study is a proof of method on which future investigations can build upon. It opens new opportunities for further investigation of suckling behavior in humpback whales and the baleen whale species.
PCAtest: testing the statistical significance of Principal Component Analysis in R
Authors: Camargo Arley
Published: February 2022

Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is one of the most broadly used statistical methods for the ordination and dimensionality-reduction of multivariate datasets across many scientific disciplines. Trivial PCs can be estimated from data sets without any correlational structure among the original variables, and traditional criteria for selecting non-trivial PC axes are difficult to implement, partially subjective or based on ad hoc thresholds. PCAtest is an R package that implements permutation-based statistical tests to evaluate the overall significance of a PCA, the significance of each PC axis, and of contributions of each observed variable to the significant axes. Based on simulation and empirical results, I encourage R users to routinely apply PCAtest to test the significance of their PCA before proceeding with the direct interpretation of PC axes and/or the utilization of PC scores in subsequent evolutionary and ecological analyses.
Measurement of dispersion of PM 2.5 in Thailand using confidence intervals for the coefficient of variation of an inverse Gaussian distribution
Authors: Chankham Wasana , Niwitpong Sa-Aat , Niwitpong Suparat
Published: February 2022

Air pollution is a growing concern for the general public in Thailand with PM 2.5 (particulate matter ≤ 2.5 µm) having the greatest impact on health. The inverse Gaussian (IG) distribution is used for examining the frequency of high concentration events and has often been applied to analyze pollution data, with the coefficient of variation (CV) being used to calculate the quantitative difference in PM 2.5 concentrations. Herein, we propose confidence intervals for the CV of an IG distribution based on the generalized confidence interval (GCI), the adjusted generalized confidence interval (AGCI), the bootstrap percentile confidence interval (BPCI), the fiducial confidence interval (FCI), and the fiducial highest posterior density confidence interval (F-HPDCI). The performance of the proposed confidence intervals was evaluated by using their coverage probabilities and average lengths from various scenarios via Monte Carlo simulations. The simulation results indicate that the coverage probabilities of the AGCI and FCI methods were higher than or close to the nominal level in all of test case scenarios. Moreover, FCI outperformed the others for small sample sizes by achieving the shortest average length. The efficacies of the confidence intervals were demonstrated by using PM 2.5 data from the Din Daeng and Bang Khun Thian districts in Bangkok, Thailand.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Analysis of Morphological Parameters in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Authors: Dsouza Jennifer , Braggs Anston Vernon , Mynalli Soujanya , Basti Ram Shenoy
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Factors associated with Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury are multiple. Among the anatomical factors, intercondylar notch width and alpha angle are also implicated as a cause for ACL injury. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the knee joint is helpful in identifying the ACL injury and factors predisposing it. Aim: To study the alpha angle and intercondylar notch width, analysed by MRI among ACL injured cases and compare with that of controls. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, MRI knee of 450 patients (18-60 years, 296 males, 154 females) were evaluated for ACL injury and were grouped under cases (torn ACL) and controls (intact ACL) with 225 participants in each group. Continuous variables were expressed as the mean±Standard Deviation (SD). Means of normal variables were compared using student’s t-test and means of non parametric variables using Mann-Whitney U test. Comparison of counts and percentages was carried out using the Chi-square (χ2) test. Results: There was no significant difference in alpha angle between males and females. Highly significant difference in intercondylar notch width was seen between males and females (22.46±2.54 mm vs 21.61±2.48 mm, p-value=0.002). Males had higher ACL injury compared to females. The mean alpha angle was higher in patients with a torn ACL than in those with an intact one (51.88±3.72 vs 50.57±3.46, p<0.001). In torn group intercondylar notch width was lower than intact group and this difference was significant (21.18±2.67 mm vs 23.16±1.99 mm, p<0.001). Conclusion: Study results revealed that the ACL tears were associated with high alpha angle and narrow intercondylar notch width. ACL tears occur more frequently in men than in women and also most commonly involves age group between 31-40 years.
Catching Gall Bladder Cancer Early- Importance of Cholelithiasis and Radiologist
Authors: Gupta Surendra Kumar , Singh Astha , Singh Virendra , Prakash Gyan
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Increased relative risk of Gall Bladder (GB) cancer in patients with gall stones has been reported in literature but there are few reports on nature of stones. However, it is difficult to predict which patient suffering from cholelithiasis and cholecystitis may develop or already has early stages of carcinoma. Aim: The present study was undertaken to assess the malignant potential and relevance of gall stones, age and gender in GB carcinoma to propose a screening protocol and early intervention for high risk patients. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study done at Moti Lal Nehru Medical College, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India from May 2012 to May 2019. This study included 200 histopathologically- Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) or postoperative specimen biopsy proven GB carcinoma and 200 control patients with upper abdominal pain but without any evidence of neoplastic changes on USG. All cases and controls were subjected to USG evaluation first followed by plain CT scan with oral contrast only and Contrast Enhanced CT (CECT) scan of whole abdomen as per protocol. Scans were evaluated for detection of gall stone profile in terms of number (solitary/multiple), size (small/large) and density (radio-opaque/ radiolucent). The statistical analysis was done by using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 18.0. Results: Male to female ratio in this study was 1:2. GB calculi cannot be considered as bystander as overall 25% patients of both sexes had cholelithiasis. In the present study, 25% who were having carcinoma GB have been detected to have gall stones and out of which 74% were having small calculi. The study showed the association between GB cancer and solitary and multiple large calculi over different age groups to be not statistically significant (p-value=0.3976; χ2=0.716). Association of small and multiple calculi came out to be highly significantly associated with carcinoma in 67% of patients. Furthermore, it was observed that the association between multiple small calculi and GB cancer over the different age groups came out to be extremely statistically significant (p-value=0.0001; χ2=28.62). The association between gall stones in GB cancer patients differ statistically significant over the age groups from cases with gall stones in control group (p-value=0.005497; χ2=7.7082). Conclusion: From the findings of the study author proposed screening via ultrasound and guided FNAC for females over 40 years of age with multiple small calculi not undergoing immediate cholecystectomy to detect early emergence of carcinoma. It is also suggested that clinicians should post patients with multiple, small GB calculi for cholecystectomy on a priority basis and histopathology should be done in each case of GB wall thickening.
Role of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient in Characterisation of Neck Masses- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Singh Amandeep , Mangat Bhavdeep , Sood Arvinder Singh , Purewal Jasmin , Singh Gauravdeep
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Neck masses are frequently encountered in clinical practice and differential diagnoses of a patient presenting with a neck mass is wide. Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DW-MRI) is an imaging technique based on molecular diffusion. It is a very helpful complementary technique in distinguishing neoplastic from non neoplastic tissue and has numerous applications in the evaluation of head and neck masses especially in head and neck lymphadenopathy. Aim: To evaluate the accuracy of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) in differentiating benign and malignant neck masses. Materials and Methods: A single-centre cross-sectional study comprising of 50 patients of all age groups with clinical suspicion of neck swelling was conducted in Department of Radiodiagnosis at Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Amritsar, Punjab, India from March 2018 to February 2020. All patients included were subjected to general physical and detailed local examination. MRI was carried out on 1.5 Tesla Unit On Philips Intera Achieva using Sense Body Coil with b factor of 0 and 1000 s/mm² and ADC maps were generated and the results were compared with histopathological results and/or follow-up. Statistical assessment was carried out using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0. Qualitative data were compared using the Chi-square test. Results: The most common cause of neck mass was lymph nodal masses (18%) with highest numbers of patients in age group 40-60 years (34%). When a cut-off ADC value of 1.1×10-3 s/ mm² was used, sensitivity of 95.23% and specificity of 89.65% were obtained for characterisation of malignant lesions which was statistically significant. There was a strong agreement (k value=0.838) in diagnosing the nature of lesion using ADC value on MRI with histopathological findings. Conclusion: Diffusion Weighted Imaging (DWI) and ADC values are new promising aspect of MRI and can help in differentiating the nature of the neck lesions. DWI can readily differentiate between benign and malignant lesions of neck with good efficacy and reproducibility.
The Impact of Job Satisfaction on Employee Performance: A Case at ABC Manufacturing Company
Authors: Rodrigo J. A. H. N. , Kuruppu C. L. , Pathirana G. Y.
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of ‘Job Satisfaction’ on ‘Employee Performance’. The preliminary investigations revealed a researchable area where most of the employees are dissatisfied affecting their job performances. In this study deductive approach has been used to test the existing theories and thus this study involves quantitative analysis. The determinants of independent variable of ‘Job Satisfaction’ included Pay & Benefits, Trainings, Work Condition and Nature of the Job. The dependent variable for the study is ‘Employee Performance’. The sample consists of 66 employees based on simple random sampling technique. Moreover, a structured questionnaire was administered to collect the primary data. The hypotheses were tested using the correlation and regression analysis. The correlation analysis denoted that there is a positive relationship between job satisfaction and employee performance and the regression analysis depicted that the job satisfaction has a statistically significant impact on employee performance at 0.05. This study suggests the organization to maintain salary equality and supervisor relationships to increase the employee performance. Furthermore, it is recommended to recognize the training needs of the employees to boost the performance of the employees. Moreover, based on the findings of this study, the scholars could further investigate the how other factors such as top management support and organization culture impacting on employee performance.
Legislation on Determining the Parentage of a Born-Out-of-Wedlock Child Based on the Perspectives of the Best Interest of Child and Progressive Fiqh
Authors: Hidayat Fatkul , Nur Iffatin , . Maftukhin , . Akhyak
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to reveal the phenomenon of formal legal law that contrasts with the principles of justice for children, the best interest of child, and progressive Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh). The high number of applications for legitimation and determination of children in the juridical area and the relative competence of the City-Regency Religious Courts indicate the high number of children who have not received recognition, status, and identity from both their parents and biological fathers. This condition causes the civil rights of children to be taken away from both parents and biological fathers. The Religious Courts, which have absolute competence in deciding cases, have not been able to fully grant all applications for the determination of children that have juridical implications for the civil rights of children. A qualitative study, based on a case study model, intellectual anxiety, and the awakening of the authors' sense of humanity, inspired the struggle for the rights of children born out of wedlock in the perspective of the best interest of child and progressive fiqh. This comprehensive study found that the legislative decisions and the juridical implications of determining the status of born-out-of-wedlock children at the Religious Courts of the Mojokerto Regency, the Malang Regency, and Surabaya City, based on the perspectives of the best interest of child and progressive fiqh, gave rise to a model of renewal that religion and the state should be able to provide a rule that implements the best interest of child and progressive fiqh.
Spatial Growth of Calabar Metropolis: Determinants and Effects
Authors: Erhabor Frank O. , G. Njoku Chukwudi , Ibrahim S. O. , Danrumpha M. A.
Published: February 2022

The physical development in Calabar metropolis has been restricted by the rivers surrounding it, which has further led to the development of unplanned settlement in haphazard arrangement within the metropolis, which therefore, requires proper and effective assessment. This study focused on examining the extent of growth of the built-up land area of Calabar, determinants and effects of the spatial growth of Calabar metropolis from 1987 to 2018. Data for the study was derived using questionnaire and in-depth interview and Relative Importance Index (RII) was used to analyze and rank the perception of respondents. Findings from both questionnaire survey and in-depth interview revealed that agricultural land-use was the major land use as at the year 1987. While built-up was identified as the major land use in 2018 implying a drastic change in the land-use change in the metropolis over the years. Finally, findings of the RII on the determinants and effects of the spatial growth of Calabar metropolis revealed that increase in population is the major determinant of the growth of the built-up area of the metropolis while increase in the cost of land within the metropolis is the most influential factor as a result of the spatial growth of the metropolis. The study recommended that improved rural programs should be embarked to reduce rural-urban migration and development of low-cost housing, accessible housing loans and grants should make available for the entire residence of Calabar irrespective of any bias which will curb the high cost of land and house rent within the metropolis among others.
Neonatal Jaundice: Knowledge, Attitude and Practice among Pregnant Women Attending the Antenatal Clinic of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Authors: West Boma Awoala , Enekole Aitafo Josephine , Altraide Basil Omiebi
Published: February 2022

Aim: This study was undertaken to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice towards neonatal jaundice among pregnant women.

Study Design: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the antenatal clinic of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital from 1st March to 30th June 2021.

Results: Majority of the pregnant women were within the age group 26-34years 92(61.7%), resided in urban areas 117(78.5%) and from South-south geo-political zone 91(61.1%). They were mostly multiparous 65(43.6%) with tertiary level of education 100(67.1%). More than half 82(55.0%) of the pregnant women had heard of neonatal jaundice. Majority 131(89.3%) did not know the causes of neonatal jaundice, did not know the area of the body jaundice appeared first 143(96.0%), did not know the complications of neonatal jaundice 106(71.1%), did not know danger signs of neonatal jaundice 141(94.6%) and none knew any preventive method. Majority of the pregnant women 132(88.6%) would visit the hospital if their babies developed jaundice and 131(87.9%) would consent to blood transfusion if the need arose. Only 25(16.8%) pregnant women had had child(ren) with neonatal jaundice, of which 20(80.0%) took child(ren) to the hospital and 12(60.0%) presented to the hospital within 24hours. Only 1(0.7%) woman had good knowledge level, 120(80.5%) had good attitude and 12(8.1%) had good practice levels towards neonatal jaundice. There was statistically significant association between knowledge level and attitude (P value=.003) and practice levels (P value=.001).

Conclusion: Pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital had insufficient knowledge and poor practice but good attitude towards neonatal jaundice. Emphasis should therefore be placed on health education especially during antenatal period on neonatal jaundice and other prevailing health issues as this would improve their knowledge level and thus their attitude and practice.
Onchocercal Skin Disease Profiles Following Ivermectin Treatment in the Middle Imo River Baisn, Nigeria
Authors: Amaechi A. A. , Iwunze J. I. , Nwokeji C. M. , Egejuru J.
Published: February 2022

In Nigeria infection with onchocerciasis has been under control with the introduction of ivermectin in most affected communities for a decade. To assist ‘stop mass drug administration (MDA)’ decision, a cross-sectional survey evaluated the impact of ivermectin on onchocercal Skin Diseases (manifestations) from 540 participants in 5 endemic communities. The rapid epidemiological assessment (REA) method with palpable nodules and skin depigmentation (leopard skin, LS) as diagnostic indices were used. The prevalence profiles of palpable nodules and leopard skin was 5.9% and 12.2% respectively. Prevalence of clinical features varied among the farming community (P<0.05). Similarly, age group 21-30 years had significant prevalence of clinical features than other age groups (P<0.05).  Males had significantly higher prevalence of these indices (palpable nodules 6.8(%; LS 13.3%) than females (palpable nodules 4.6%; LS 11.1%). Although, Onchocercal Skin Diseases (clinical manifestations) were observed in all age groups, it occurred most in older groups. These groups with nodules could portend as reservoir for transmission. The implications of the results were discussed in the context of the on-going prediction of possible elimination of onchocerciasis in Africa and ‘stop MDA’ decision.
Existence and Uniqueness of almost Non-Negative Periodic Solution for a Class of Generalized Sine-Gordon Equation
Authors: Chen Jianze
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we have proved the existence and uniqueness of almost non-negative periodic solution to a class of generalized Sine-Gordon equation. The main method used is the maximum principle of telegraph equation established by Mawhin, Ortega and Robles-Pérez. The main technique used is Banach fixed point theorem in functional analysis. The conclusion is that when the coefficients and nonlinear terms of the equation meet certain conditions, the generalized equation has a unique almost non-negative periodic solution. Generalized the results of Mawhin, Ortega and Robles-Pérez.
Exact solutions of Sixth and Fifth Degree Equations
Authors: El Amine Monir Mohammed
Published: February 2022

The real problematic with algebraic polynomial equations is how to exactly solve any sixth and fifth degree polynomial equations. In this study, we give a new absolute method that presents a new decomposition to exactly solve a sixth degree polynomial equation, while the corresponding fifth degree equation can be easily transformed into a sixth degree equation of this kind (sixth degree equation solvable by this method), then the sextic equation (sixth degree equation) obtained will be solved by applying the principles of this method; moreover, the solutions of the quintic equation (fifth degree equation) will be easily deduced.
Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Cayratia trifolia
Authors: Princeton Bianca , Gayathri R. , Selvaraj J. , Priya V. Vishnu
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Cayratia trifolia is a plant belonging to the family Vitaceae and genus Cayratia. Anti-inflammatory activity is the property of a substance or treatment that reduces inflammation or swelling. Antioxidants are defined as substances that delay or inhibit oxidative damage to a target molecule and its principal function is its ability to trap free radicals. The alcoholic leaf extract of Cayratia trifolia has anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant properties against inflammations and swelling and DPPH free radicals respectively and can be evaluated using both in vitro and in vivo assays. The principal aim of the study is to employ in-vitro assays to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Cayratia trifolia.

Materials and Methods: Plant extract of Cayratia trifolia was purchased and tested for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In case of evaluating the antioxidant activity, the methanolic extract of the plant was utilised. The examination of the anti-inflammatory properties of Cayratia trifolia involves acetyl salicylic acid as a positive control and aspirin and aspirin was employed as a standard anti-inflammatory drug.

Results: The anti-inflammatory activity of Cayratia trifolia extract was examined and it was observed that the plant extract showed an increased percentage of inhibition of trypsin with increasing concentration. Similarly, the antioxidant activity was compared to Vitamin C and the percentage of inhibition of DPPH free radicals increased with the increase in concentration of the extract.

Conclusion: Within the limits of the study, the plant extract of Cayratia trifolia was observed to possess both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
A Review on Anthracycline Induced Cardiotoxicity- A Mechanism-based Approach
Authors: Hiradeve Sachin M. , Uplanchiwar Vaibhav P. , Mane Namrata , Katole Gayatri , Gaikwad Sanjana N. , Deshmukh Mayuri N. , Gaikwad Swati G. , Nikam Priya V. , Bais Abhinav , Fulzele Vijendra , Bobade Trupti S. , Mansoori Mohd. Hashim
Published: February 2022

Doxorubicin has become one of the most effective chemotherapeutic agents, but its use was complicated by the development of heart failure. Proposed mechanisms for its antitumor effects included intercalation into DNA that caused the prevention of micro molecule synthesis, DNA cross-linkage and binding, DNA damage due to topoisomerase 2b suppression, reactive oxygen species production, and induction of apoptosis. Several drugs such as ACE inhibitors or the angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers and the CHF therapy are used for the treatment processes. The present brief review of the literature, focuses on literature based on the mechanism of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity.
People and their monuments in the Upper Clyde Valley
Authors: Donnelly Mike , Barrowman Chris , Hamer Jerry , Lelong Olivia , Sharpe Lorna , Ballin Torben , Evans Caitlin , Arthur John
Published: February 2022

This report sets out the results of a programme of topographic survey, geophysical survey, field walking and trial excavation, carried out in 1998–99 and funded by Historic Scotland, in and around an extensive upland prehistoric landscape in the Upper Clyde Valley. It was designed to build on the results of limited excavation of a large, late Neolithic enclosure at Blackshouse Burn, South Lanarkshire (NGR: NS 9528 4046) and preliminary survey of nearby monuments undertaken in the 1980s, and to identify and characterize prehistoric settlement in the adjacent valleys through field walking. Topographic survey of the enclosures at Blackshouse Burn, Meadowflatts and Chester Hill, and of hut circles, clearance cairns and a possible ring cairn on Cairngryffe and Swaites Hills, recorded a complex ritual and domestic landscape: evidence of the longstanding prehistoric occupation of the Pettinain Uplands. The geophysical survey of Chester Hill enclosure found traces of internal structures and quarry scoop, while geophysical survey of part of the large Blackshouse Burn monument and smaller adjacent enclosure found evidence for a curvilinear feature in the large enclosure and a possible screen in its entrance. The systematic examination of ploughed fields in the valleys to the west and south-west of the upland monument complex discovered several concentrations of lithics, most notably evidence of late Mesolithic tool production and late Neolithic to early Bronze Age tool production and domestic activity. Trial trenches excavated over a late Mesolithic cluster at Carmichael found a knapping floor and several structural features.
Novel assay for the influenza virus M2 channel activity
Authors: Giffin Kelleen , Rader Randall K. , Marino Margaret H. , Forgey Robert W.
Published: July 2002

The influenza A M2 ion channel was expressed and activity characterized in Xenopus oocytes. Based on the activation properties of the channels, a high throughput, non‐electrophysiological screening assay was developed in order to identify novel inhibitors of the channel. This will facilitate discovery of novel agents to treat influenza viral infections.
Does the folding type of a protein depend on its amino acid composition?
Authors: Chou Kuo-Chen
Published: July 2002

Proteins of known structures are generally classified into one of the following four folding types: α, β, α + β, and αl/β proteins. Recent findings [Muskal and Kim (1992) J. Mol. Biol. 225, 713–727] suggested that the folding type of a protein might basically depend on its amino acid composition. If this is true, why is that the predicted results of the protein folding type from amino acid composition always failed to reach the desired accuracy? An examination of the prediction approach indicates that none of the previous algorithms has ever taken into account the coupling effect among different amino acid components. In view of this, a new algorithm has been developed which distinguishes itself from the previous ones by incorporating such a coupling effect. The very high rates, 99.2% and 95.3%, of correct predictions thus obtained for a recently constructed training set of 120 proteins and testing set of 64 proteins, respectively, provide confirmation of the above suggestion.
Pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor gene is highly expressed in the liver of adult‐onset type II citrullinemia
Authors: Kobayashi Keiko , Nakata Masanori , Terazono Hiroki , Shinsato Takuro , Saheki Takeyori
Published: July 2002

Deficiency of argininosuccinate synthetase (ASS) causes citrullinemia. Type II citrullinemia is found in most patients with adult‐onset citrullinemia in Japan, and ASS is deficient specifically in the liver. Previous studies have shown that the decrease of hepatic ASS activity is caused by a decrease in enzyme protein with normal kinetic properties and that there are no apparent abnormalities in the amount, translational activity, and nucleotide sequence of hepatic ASS mRNA. Recent results of homozygosity testing indicate that the primary defect of type II citrullinemia is not within the ASS gene locus. In this present work, to understand the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of type II citrullinemia, we have characterized the alterations of gene expression in the liver of type II patients using the recently developed mRNA differential display method. Some cDNA bands expressed differently in type II citrullinemia patients and control were selected, cloned, and sequenced. Nucleotide sequence analysis and homology searching revealed an interesting clone which has 99% homology with the human pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor (hPSTI). Northern blot and RT‐PCR analyses showed that the expression of hPSTI mRNA increased significantly in the liver of all type II patients tested. Furthermore, the concentration of hPSTI protein was found to be higher in the liver of type II citrullinemia than in control. These results suggest that hPSTI may be related to the primary defect of type II citrullinemia and may be useful as a diagnostic marker, although the detailed mechanism of the high expression of hPSTI mRNA in type II liver is not yet known.
Purification, structure determination and synthesis of covalitoxin‐II, a short insect‐specific neurotoxic peptide from the venom of the Coremiocnemis validus (Singapore tarantula)
Authors: Balaji R.Ashok , Sasaki Toru , Gopalakrishnakone P. , Sato Kazuki , Kini R.Manjunatha , Bay Boon-Huat
Published: July 2002

Spider venoms contain toxins that specifically immobilize and kill insects. We report the purification and characterization of a new insect‐specific toxin named covalitoxin‐II (Cvtx‐II; mass, 3406.24±0.64), from Coremiocnemis validus (Singapore tarantula) venom. The complete 31 amino acid sequence of Cvtx‐II has been determined and it shows less than 40% identity with spider toxins. However, Cvtx‐II has conserved cystine motif analogous to other spider and ω‐conotoxins. Cvtx‐II was chemically synthesized and identified with the native Cvtx‐II. Synthetic Cvtx‐II induced insect‐specific non‐lethal excitatory activity when injected into crickets, but not in cockroaches and mice.
Effects of Ammonia and Glucosamine on the Heterogeneity of Erythropoietin Glycoforms
Authors: Yang M. , Butler M.
Published: July 2002

Recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein produced as a therapeutic agent from mammalian cell cultures for the treatment of anemia associated with severe kidney damage. The EPO structure has a high glycan content which is essential for bioactivity but shows considerable molecular heterogeneity. The cell culture conditions that affect the heterogeneity of the glycoforms of EPO are not well understood. However, the accumulation of ammonia in culture is one factor that has been associated with an enhanced heterogeneity of glycoforms. In this report we investigate the metabolic perturbations associated with ammonia and glucosamine that may give rise to an altered pattern of EPO glycosylation. Recombinant human erythropoietin was synthesized in serum‐free cultures of transfected Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. The molecular heterogeneity of erythropoietin was increased by supplementation of cultures with either ammonia or glucosamine. The enhanced molecular heterogeneity was shown to be due to variable glycosylation that resulted in EPO with an enhanced molecular weight and isoelectric point range. Enzymatic removal of the glycan moiety of EPO in all cases resulted in a single molecular form with a molecular weight of 18 000, which corresponded to non‐glycosylated EPO. The variable glycosylation was consistent with reduced sialylation and antennarity of the carbohydrate structures present on the three N‐linked sites of EPO. In the presence of ammonia (>30 mM) the proportion of tetrasialylated and tetraantennary glycan structures were reduced by 73% and 57%, respectively, as determined by HPLC analysis. Such changes were also observed, although to a lesser extent (41% and 37%), by an increase in the glucosamine concentration (>10 mM) in the medium. The enhanced heterogeneity of the glycan structures coincided with a significant increase in the intracellular UDP−N‐acetylhexosamine (UDP−GNAc) pool. The measured UDP−GNAc level was up to 2 orders of magnitude higher in the presence of either glucosamine or ammonia. However, the changes in the glycosylation profiles induced by either glucosamine or ammonia were significantly different even at the same intracellular UDP‐GNAc concentration. This suggests that the enhanced EPO heterogeneity could not be mediated solely by the increased UDP−GNAc level. Glucosamine (but not ammonia) was shown to cause significant inhibition of glucose transport into the cells, which could induce a different pattern of primary metabolism.
Effects of Surfactants on the Stabilization of the Bovine Lactoperoxidase Activity
Authors: Marcozzi Giordana , Di Domenico Carla , Spreti Nicoletta
Published: July 2002

Bovine lactoperoxidase (LPO) is taken as a model protein of mammalian peroxidases to investigate the activity and the stability of the enzyme in the presence of different surfactants. The cationic benzalkonium chloride (Bz) has proved efficient in preserving the enzymatic activity for over 10 days, while the native enzyme completely lost its activity within 3−4 days. The presence of Bz allows the enzyme to preserve its secondary structure for a long time, as shown in CD spectra, and creates a more hydrophobic environment for the enzyme, as indicated in fluorescence studies. Moreover, this surfactant at a concentration of 0.01% (0.3 mM) increases the lactoperoxidase activity in the first 2 h of incubation at 37 °C. Both hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions of the cationic surfactant seem to be responsible for the enzyme activation and stabilization, and this is a promising result in view of industrial applications of enzymes.
Childhood asthma perception in Turkey under real‐life environment (CAPTURE) study
Authors: Sekerel Bulent Enis , Saraclar Yildiz , Önes Ulker , Guneser Seval , Akcakaya Necla , Tanac Remziye , Anlar Yasar ,   the Turkish National Allergy and Clinical Immunology Society
Published: July 2002

Successful management of asthma requires good communication between patients and the healthcare team. The background and expectations of a patient inevitably influence the success of any partnership. A questionnaire‐based survey was performed to obtain data on the perception of the impact of asthma in daily life among children (age‐range 6–14 years) and adolescents (age‐range 15–20 years). A total of 756 patients (384 children, 372 adolescents) were randomly selected from 11 Turkish cities and interviewed face‐to‐face. Of the total study population, 71.3% received regular follow‐up and 75.9% currently took asthma medication. Almost 50% reported that asthma affected their lives significantly. Even though half of the patients had symptoms at least once a week, one‐third were not receiving regular prophylactic treatment. Exercise produced asthma symptoms in 45.5% of children and 27.4% of adolescents. The finding that asthma continues to be a major health problem clearly indicates an urgent need for further management programs in Turkey.
Polarized cholesterol and phospholipid efflux in cultured gall-bladder epithelial cells: evidence for an ABCA1-mediated pathway
Authors: LEE Jin , SHIRK Andrew , ORAM John F. , LEE Sum P. , KUVER Rahul
Published: July 2002

Gall-bladder epithelial cells (GBEC) are exposed to high concentrations of cholesterol in bile. Whereas cholesterol absorption by GBEC is established, the fate of this absorbed cholesterol is not known. The aim of this study was to determine whether ABCA1 (ATP-binding cassette transporter A1) mediates cholesterol efflux in GBEC. Polarized canine GBEC were cultured on porous membrane filters allowing separate access to apical (AP) and basolateral (BL) compartments. After AP loading of cells with model bile and [14C]cholesterol, cholesterol efflux was measured. Cholesterol loading together with 8-bromo-cAMP treatment, which increased ABCA1 expression, led to a significant increase in cholesterol efflux with apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) as the acceptor. Cholesterol efflux was observed predominantly into the BL compartment. Similar results were found for phospholipid efflux. Confocal immunofluorescence microscopy showed a predominantly BL ABCA1 localization. Interestingly, apoA-I added to either the AP or the BL compartments elicited BL lipid efflux with cAMP treatment. No paracellular or transcellular passage of 125I-apoA-I occurred. Ligands for the nuclear hormone receptors liver X receptor α (LXRα) and retinoid X receptor (RXR) elicited AP and BL cholesterol efflux, suggesting the involvement of both ABCA1- and non-ABCA1-mediated pathways. In summary, BL cholesterol/phospholipid efflux consistent with an ABCA1-mediated mechanism occurs in GBEC. This efflux pathway is stimulated by cAMP and by LXRα/RXR ligands, and in the case of the cAMP pathway appears to involve a role for biliary apoA-I.
Differential recruitment of α1‐ and β‐adrenoceptors in inotropic control of atrial child myocardium by endogenous noradrenaline
Authors: Borthne K. , Langslet A. , Lindberg H. , Skomedal T. , Osnes J.‐B.
Published: July 2002

Noradrenaline release, graded by frequency variation of field stimulation (0.1–2 Hz), in atrial myocardial specimens (n=45) from children (n=21) with congenital heart defects, was used to examine the inotropic responses of graded, receptor‐selective, endogenous stimulation. Muscle trabeculae subjected to autonomic blockage by timolol, prazosin and atropine showed a slight positive force–frequency relationship (staircase phenomenon). Blockage by atropine/prazosin (i.e. β‐adrenoceptor stimulation) or atropine/timolol (i.e. α1‐adrenoceptor stimulation) both resulted in positive inotropic effects. A group of specimens opposed by atropine and primarily subjected to frequency variation, secondly was returned to 1 Hz. Stabilization was followed by sequential reversal by β‐blocker (timolol), α1‐adrenoceptor stimulation by exogenous noradrenaline, reversal by α1‐blocker (prazosin), and finally supramaximal β‐adrenoceptor stimulation (isoprenaline). The maximal levels of inotropic responses mediated by exogenous α1‐ and β‐adrenoceptor stimulation was estimated. Analysis of the contraction–relaxation cycles revealed that α1‐ and β‐adrenoceptors were recruited differentially. The α1‐adrenoceptor mediated, endogenous inotropic effect at 1 Hz was close to the level obtained by exogenous noradrenaline stimulation. In contrast, less than 70% of the β‐adrenoceptor mediated, exogenous inotropic effect was expressed by endogenous noradrenaline at the same stimulating frequency, thus indicating that the α1‐adrenoceptors may be located closer to the adrenergic nerve terminals than the β‐adrenoceptors. There may be a heterogenous relationship within the same heart as to the relative distance between the nerve terminals and the adrenoceptors. Spatial localization of adrenergic receptors relative to adrenergic nerve terminals adds another aspect to adrenergic regulation. The α1‐adrenoceptor pathway may play an important role, especially in low‐intensity sympathetic inotropic myocardial control, whereas the β‐adrenoceptor pathway adds important effects to the high‐intensity sympathetic regulation. Sympathetic activity may thus tonically stimulate the α1‐adrenoceptor pathway, without necessarily stimulating the β‐adrenoceptor pathway to the same extent.
The correction of congenital penile curvature in young men
Authors: Baskin  , Lue
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To determine the long‐term outcome of multiple parallel plication (MPP) used for correcting congenital penile curvature (with normal urethra and corpus spongiosum), a technique which takes account of the greater force of erection in young men (mean arterial pressure ≈100 mmHg) than in neonates (≈60 mmHg).

Patients and methods

All young men who underwent surgical correction of congenital penile curvature using the multiple parallel plication technique between 1992 and 1995 were reviewed, from their charts and by a telephone survey.

Results

Ten patients (mean age 22.3 years, sd 4, range 17–29) were identified, all of whom had been followed for more than one year (mean 2.8, sd 1.3, range 1.2–4.8). All 10 patients reported a preoperative curvature of 60–90°; postoperatively, eight of the 10 patients had a successful outcome, based on self‐documentation of a straighter penis (eight) and/or satisfactory intercourse (four). Two of these eight requested follow‐up plications to correct a residual curvature of 15°. All patients reported feeling the sutures as a small bump on the dorsal aspect of the penis. In one patient this was considered bothersome, but it did not interfere with intercourse. In one patient the curvature recurred 5 weeks after surgery, following intercourse. Another patient was lost to follow‐up and could not be evaluated.

Conclusion

 The MPP technique has the following advantages; it entails no dissection of the neurovascular bundle or corpus spongiosum of the tunica, avoiding complications (such as impotence and urethral injury) that may occur with manipulation of these structures; it can be performed under local anaesthesia and can be completed within 30 min; suture cut‐through is unlikely because the dorsum (12 o’clock position) of the tunica albuginea is the thickest and hence strongest area of the corporal body; and the straightness of the penis can be determined easily because erection is sustained throughout the procedure. The disadvantages of the MPP technique are; several small bumps from the nonabsorbable sutures may be palpable, and the patient needs to be informed of this preoperatively; aspiration and phenylephrine injection may be required to prevent priapism.