bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation and Comparison of Therapeutic Efficacy of Various Hormonal Protocols in Anoestrus Buffalo Heifers of Semi-Arid Region
Authors: Panchal Janak , Jadav Ravindra , Solanki Vipul , Kalaswa Sachin , Keshav . , Suthar B.N.
Published: April 2024

To assess and compare different hormonal protocols' treatment efficacy in anoestrus buffalo heifers in a semi-arid region. Forty buffalo heifers with a history of anoestrus were chosen randomly from the semi-arid region of Banaskanth and divided into four equal groups.Group-I: Heatsynch protocol (n = 10), Group-II Ovsynch protocol (n = 10), Group-III Doublesynch protocol (n = 10) and Group-IV Control (n = 10) are followed by artificial insemination at a predetermined period in treated buffalo heifers and insemination during spontaneous estrus in group-IV buffalo heifers. In Groups I, II, and III, the corresponding percentages of estrus induction were 90, 80, and 80 percent. Major symptoms such as edoema, erythema, dampness of vulva and estrus mucus secretion were present during the expression of estrus. Fifty percent of the buffalo heifers in Group IV displayed estrus at varying intervals. After three consecution services, Group II had the highest overall fertility rate (50%) followed by Group III (40%), Group I (30%), and Group IV (30%). In true anoestrus buffalo heifers, the Heatsynch, Ovsynch, and Doublesynch procedure can be applied with success to induce estrus. Buffalo heifers that follow the Ovsynch protocol may have a higher conception rate.
Rice-based Climate Resilient Farming Practices Influencing the Soil Physical Parameters, Carbon Dynamics and System Productivity in Inceptisols under Coastal Agro-ecosystem
Authors: Mohanty Ayesha , Padhan Smruti Ranjan , Panigrahi Kaushik Kumar , Nayak Abhisikta , Pradhan Rojalin , Mishra Kshitendra Narayan
Published: April 2024

A field experiment was carried out to assess the influence of different rice establishment technique {System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and Conventional method of transplanting (CMT)}, rice-based cropping sequence {rice-groundnut-fallow (RGF) and rice-toria-greengram (RTG)}, mulching practices {No mulching (WoM) and Crop residue mulch (CRM)} and nutrient management practices{100% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) and 75% RDF + 25% N through FYM (INM)} on the different physical properties of the soil under changing climate at the Central Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar in the East and South Eastern Coastal Plain Zone of Odisha, India. The field experiment was conducted in split-plot design replicated thrice. Considerable build-up of SOC by 5.2%, 10.3% and 13.9% was observed under RTG, CRM and INM over RGF, WoM and RDF, respectively. Both CRM and INM registered higher proportion of water stable micro (14.8 %and 15.7 %) and macro-aggregates (5.2 % and 9.2 %), respectively over WoM and RDF. The CRM and INM remarkably elevated the macro-aggregate carbon by 13.9 % and 15.7 %, respectively over the initial contents (10.2 g kg-1). Additionally, the RGF and CRM recorded significantly higher REY of 9.2 t ha-1 and 9 t ha-1 over RTG and WoM treatments, respectively. Thus, SRI system along with mulching rice straw in toria and toria biomass to green gram and INM practices has been identified as the most suitable climate resilient farming practice in the coastal agro-ecosystem of Odisha, India because of its significant impact in soil physical properties including carbon storage, and thus synergizing effects for favourable soil ecosystem functioning.
Managing Extreme Climatic Variability: A Study of Rice Based Farming in Assam, India
Authors: Maibangsa Mercydi , Maibangsa Subal , Choudhury Dhiren , Gogoi Horindra , Sharma Kishore Kumar
Published: April 2024

Assam has been experiencing the adverse effects of climate change and its most common manifestation is the increasing frequency of extreme flood in the pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Lakhimpur and Dhemaji are the two districts that have been subjected to severe flood every year and in recent years have been experiencing soil erosion, sand-silt deposition in rice growing areas. The present study was therefore attempted in these two districts to find out the impact of extreme events in agriculture and social activities of the farmers in flood affected areas and to find out their responses and coping mechanisms during extreme climate variability. The result of the study revealed that both men and women farmers have been experiencing changes in the weather patterns with longer duration of hotter days and shorter duration of cold days. They have been experiencing frequent drought and frequent flood accompanied by soil erosion, sand and silt deposition in their rice fields affecting their farming activities. The area and production of rice/pulses/oilseeds had decreased to a great extent due to sand-silt deposition. During extreme flood livestock and fish production also decreased due to diseases and decreasing swampy areas/ponds. Availability of food, fodder and fuel had been affected for which the time taken for collecting fodder and fuel has increased. The impact of extreme climate events resulted in increasing indebtedness, wage labour, migration of young men in search of employment and school dropout of children. In response to such extreme climate events farmers had learned to adapt themselves through diversified farming by branching out into livestock production, change in cropping pattern, increasing the area of rabi crops cultivation, adopting non-farm activities such as wage labour in neighbouring districts/states, shop keeping, fishing and selling dry fish etc. women have adopted non-farm activities such as weaving, fishing and selling local brew. The priority adaptation needs of these men and women farmers are stress tolerant varieties of rice in flood affected areas, stress tolerant crops in sand deposited areas, training on scientific crop and livestock production, poultry etc. Women need training on improved techniques of loom and designing so as to fetch good price of their products as well as livestock and poultry production.
Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS) Based Identification of Trichoderma Isolates and Biocontrol Activity against Fusarium oxysporum and Chitinase Activity
Authors: Kumar Jaygendra , Kumar Mukesh , Vaishali . , Tomar Akash , Kumar Puspendra
Published: April 2024

Twelve Trichoderma spp. isolated from different locations in Uttar Pradesh, India. Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) amplification and sequencing were used to identify isolates of Trichoderma that showed 99–100% identification with Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma asperellum, and Trichoderma longibrachiatum, the three species of Trichoderma. Tests were conducted in Vitro to evaluate the biocontrol potential of Trichoderma isolates against Fusarium species. After seven days of incubation, the isolate TBT6 (T. harzianum) exhibited the greatest antagonism against Fusarium oxysporum, with inhibition rates of 87.1%) by TBT7 (82.2%), and the least amount of inhibition (59.7%) by T. longibrachiatum isolate TBT10. Under field conditions, the antagonistic T. harzianum isolate TBT6 can be employed as a bio-control agent against Fusarium oxysporum. and for the development of formulations based on Trichoderma. Using the dual plate approach, twelve highly antagonistic Trichoderma isolates were selected for chitinolytic activity. Observing the breakdown of chitin substrates, Trichoderma isolates TBT6 was shown to have strong chitinolytic enzyme activity, making it a good candidate for endochitinase gene isolation. Using two particular primers, the genomic DNA of the Trichoderma isolate TBT6 was isolated and amplified.
Comprehensive Disease Management Strategy for Cercospora Leaf Spot in Mungbean: Assessment of Botanicals, Fungicides, and Bio-agents In vivo
Authors: Raghuvanshi Rahul Singh , Singh Nidhi , Sarsaiya Vishal , Patidar Girish , Chandra Subhash , Singh Abhishek , Singh Vivek
Published: April 2024

Aim: Worldwide mungbean farming is seriously threatened by the fungal disease Cercospora canescens, which causes Cercospora leaf spot and severe yield losses. This study evaluated the effectiveness of fungicides, botanicals, and bioagents in vivo with the goal of developing an efficient management approach for Cercospora leaf spot.

Study Design: Randomized block design with ten treatments and three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plant Pathology, ANDUA&T Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) India located at latitude 26.47 0N, longitude 82.12 0E and altitude 113m above the sea level during kharif season, 2019.

Methodology: The antifungal capabilities of botanical extracts were studied, the pathogen-growth-inhibiting capacity of fungicides was tested, and the potential for bio-agents to suppress the course of disease was analyzed. The effectiveness of plant extracts, including Neem leaf extract, Onion, Garlic clove extract, Tulsi, and Ginger was assessed at a concentration of 10%, against Cercospora canescens.

Results: Ten per cent concentration was found most effective in vitro was further tested in vivo at 30 days and 45 days after sowing.  Neem leaf extract, Onion, Garlic clove extract, Tulsi, and Ginger @ 10% against Cercospora canescens

Conclusion: It is very clear from the present studies that the plant extracts which were better in inhibiting the radial growth In vitro also showed reduction in disease incidence and per cent disease control was also higher In vivo condition.
Waste Utilization in Horticulture: An Overview
Authors: Mehta Akshay , Yadav Alkesh , Kumar Aman , Kumari Kalpana
Published: April 2024

Waste management in horticulture plays a pivotal role in achieving environmental sustainability and optimizing resource utilization. One of the primary methods for waste utilization is composting, which involves the decomposition of organic waste materials to produce nutrient-rich compost. Compost serves as an excellent soil amendment, enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth. Additionally, anaerobic digestion offers a valuable approach for converting organic waste into biogas, a renewable energy source that can be used for heating, electricity generation, and vehicle fuel. Furthermore, fermentation processes can be employed to convert fruit and vegetable waste into valuable products such as animal feed and biofuels. The by-products of fermentation, including yeast and enzymes, have applications in various industries, contributing to the circular economy model. Advancements in precision agriculture and smart waste management systems have revolutionized waste utilization in horticulture. Technologies such as GPS, GIS mapping, wireless sensor networks and big data analytics enable data-driven, decision-making and optimize resource allocation. Precision planting, targeted spraying, automated pruning/harvesting and variable rate irrigation are among the innovative practices facilitated by these technologies, leading to increased productivity and efficiency in horticultural operations. Moreover, waste utilization in horticulture contributes to mitigating environmental pollution and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By diverting organic waste from landfills and incineration, the emission of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is minimized. Instead, organic waste is repurposed into valuable resources, thereby closing the loop on waste streams and promoting a circular economy.
Financial Inclusion and Technological Influence on SDG 4 - Quality Education Attainment in Africa: A Case Study of Gombe State
Authors: Dauda Hashimu , Danladi Sagir , Bala Bashir
Published: April 2024

The pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) - Quality Education, remains a critical imperative for African nations, particularly in the context of fostering inclusive and equitable education systems. This study aims to address the gaps in understanding the relationship between financial inclusion, technological advancements, and the achievement of SDG 4 in Africa, focusing specifically on Gombe State. Questionnaires were distributed to 700 respondents, with 580 valid responses collected. Data was collected on access to financial services, awareness and usage of educational technology, financial behavior, and attitudes towards education financing. Data analysis was conducted using Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) with AMOS. The study found a significant positive relationship between access to financial services and attitudes towards education financing. Additionally, awareness and usage of educational technology were found to positively influence attitudes towards education financing. Finally, positive financial behaviors, such as savings and prudent financial management, were associated with supportive attitudes towards education financing. The study suggests integrating financial inclusion, educational technology, and promoting positive financial behaviors, in order to advance inclusive and equitable quality education in Gombe State, thereby fostering sustainable development in the region.
Detection and Identification of Major Seed Mycoflora Associated with Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Cultivars Grown in Kashmir, India
Authors: Dar Mohd Aslam , Habib Mehfuza , Ali Gowhar , Bhat Muhammad Ashraf , Amin Zakir , Shahnaz Efath , Wani Muhammad Altaf , Seerat-Un-Nisa . , Kumar Sanjay , Jeelani Fehim , Ahngar Tanveer Ahmad
Published: April 2024

Worldwide, rice is a significant crop for food production. The main requirement for increased yield and production is high-quality seed. While being exported, seeds and grains have the risk of being associated with pathogenic as well as non-pathogenic microflora. As a result, they are frequently inspected in accordance with phytosanitary laws to stop diseases from spreading into new areas and also to have an impact on the quality of the seeds. Fungal infections that infect rice seeds are regulated by phytosanitary laws and can be identified using several techniques for checking seed health. Therefore, in accordance with the recommendations of International Seed Testing Association (ISTA), stored seeds of seeds of four rice varieties (SR-2, SR-3, SR-4, and SR-5) were studied to investigate the occurrence of seed-associated fungal mycoflora using the blotter paper and agar plate method. In both blotter and agar tests, four fungal species namely as Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizopus stolonifer, Alternaria alternata, and Trichoderma harzianum were isolated from different test varieties of rice. There was 5.667%, 8.333%, 4.333% ,9.667% by blotter test and 7.667%, 11.667%, 6.333%, 12.667% by agar test mycoflora associated with the seeds of SR-2, SR-3, SR-4 and SR-5.
Congenital Fibrosis of Extraocular Muscles: A Case Report
Authors: Chaudhary Rahul , Sonwani Prabha , Singh Suchita
Published: April 2024

Unprogressive unilateral or bilateral limited ocular motility, with or without ptosis, is a hallmark of the uncommon congenital disease known as congenital fibrosis of extraocular muscle (CFEOM). Fibrosis of the extraocular muscle leads to optic nuclear dysplasia or hypoplasia and reduced ocular mobility, which in turn causes it. diverse phenotypes of illness might cause patients to report with diverse presentations.
Anniversary meeting
Authors: - -
Published: April 2024

The usual business was conducted at the Anniversary meeting, including the election of new Fellows and the presentation of a list of deceased Fellows. Other reports presented included: A report on the number of Fellows on the Society’s Roll Brief obituaries for some of the Fellows who died in the previous year: Robert Munro, Erskine Beveridge, Lord Guthrie, Dr William Gemmell and Rev James Primrose.A report on the progress of the Society’s forthcoming publicationsA report on the items added to the Society’s museum and library collections over the previous sessionA report on the Society’s excavations in ScotlandIt is noted that the Rhind lectures in this year were given by Mrs Eugénie Strong on ‘Painting in the Roman Empire (from the last century of the Republic to about 800 AD)’. Mrs Strong was the first woman to deliver the Rhind lectures.The Treasurer then presented the Annual Report on the Society’s finances.

 

Meeting notes for 13 December, 1920 are appended. Miss Alice H Warrender donated many artefacts from around Scotland that were collected by Lady A J Scott of Spottiswood.

 

[The journal notes that a paper titled 'Roman Bronze vessels of the casserole type, found at Barochan, Renfrewshire' by David Murray was delivered but the content of the communication was not recorded.]
Mandinga e poder decisório
Authors: Da Silva junior Rubens Ferreira
Published: April 2024

O presente artigo tem por objetivo apresentar uma discussão sobre a organização da capoeira na contemporaneidade que, através da reconfiguração de sua estrutura organizacional, adotou um modelo específico: capoeira escolarizada, que auxiliou na transição da fase de abandono e desvalorização estatal para a fase de valorização, reconhecimento social e investimentos públicos. Este modelo e seus interlocutores encontraram na sociedade baiana um cenário sociopolítico propício para reivindicação de uma identidade política autônoma e construção de novos arranjos institucionais que viabilizaram a implementação de políticas públicas para a capoeira. Por meio da pesquisa qualitativa, utilizamos a técnica de aplicação de questionário elaborado no software sphinx com o público-alvo. Os resultados indicam assimetrias nas organizações internas e no poder decisório no interior dos grupos de capoeira na Bahia.
desejo, a crença e a sensação na pesquisa em conservação da biodiversidade na Amazônia
Authors: Vargas Felipe
Published: April 2024

Neste artigo, descrevo duas saídas de campo, cada uma relativa a um estudo sobre a produção de biomassa da floresta amazônica em duas Unidades de Conservação do Estado de Roraima, em abril e julho de 2015. Abrigados pelo guarda-chuva da conservação da biodiversidade, esses estudos são realizados pelo Programa de Pesquisa em Biodiversidade (PPBio) do Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (INPA) em parceria com outras instituições. Ocorrem no interior da grade RAPELD, método inventado pelo PPBio para medir e gerir a biodiversidade. Sua inovação, além de técnica, convoca os “auxiliares locais” a quererem participar e somarem seus saberes aos esforços científicos em conservação. Resgatando o debate sociológico dos potenciais de crença e desejo, analiso o agenciamento que mistura duas lógicas, a métrica e a sensitiva, na produção dos dados sobre biomassa florestal. Desta análise um enunciado espantoso pode ser extraído: a perda da biodiversidade é a perda da capacidade dos sentidos. O que fazer? É preciso inventar novos modos de andar, tocar, escutar. Analiso o agenciamento que inventa estes modos mata adentro. Desta análise, talvez, ecludam novos modos de fazer sociedade.
Holz‐Beton‐Verbunddecken (HBV) – Neue Deckensanierungssysteme mit Vollgewindeschrauben, Stahlfaserbeton und Online‐Bemessungstools
Authors: Heller Hanfried
Published: September 2008

Für die statische und bauphysikalische Verbesserung alter Holzbalkendecken werden zunehmend Holz‐Beton‐Verbundkonstruktionen eingesetzt. Neue Produkte und Forschungsergebnisse wurden für die Planung und Nachweisführung von HBV‐Systemen aufbereitet.
Determination of halofantrine and its main metabolite desbutylhalofantrine in rat plasma by high‐performance liquid chromatography with on‐line UV irradiation and peroxyoxalate chemiluminescence detection
Authors: Amponsaa‐Karikari Abena , Kishikawa Naoya , Ohyama Kaname , Nakashima Kenichiro , Kuroda Naotaka
Published: September 2008

A sensitive, selective and reliable method has been developed and validated for the determination of halofantrine and its metabolite desbutylhalofantrine in rat plasma using 9,10‐diphenylanthracene as an internal standard. The method is based on peroxyoxalate chemiluminescence detection of hydrogen peroxide produced from fused aromatic rings in the structures of halofantrine and desbutylhalofantrine upon UV irradiation. Using spiked rat plasma, good linear relationships were obtained for both halofantrine and desbutylhalofantrine between peak height ratios (vs internal standard) and their corresponding concentrations over a range of 0.01–0.8 µg/mL with correlation coefficients of at least 0.997. The detection limits at signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3 using 0.2 mL of rat plasma were 1.5 and 1.4 ng/mL for halofantrine and desbutylhalofantrine, respectively. Relative standard deviations (n = 3) intra‐ and inter‐day were between 0.5 and 5.4% for all the studied concentrations. Using this method with simple sample treatment, halofantrine and desbutylhalofantrine in rat plasma could be precisely determined without interference from endogenous substances. The method was successfully applied to the measurement of the time courses of plasma halofantrine concentration after oral administration of the drug (7 mg/kg) to rats. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NKT cell development in the absence of the autoimmune regulator gene (Aire)
Authors: Pitt Lauren A. , Hubert Francois‐Xavier , Scott Hamish S. , Godfrey Dale I. , Berzins Stuart P.
Published: September 2008

Autoimmune regulator gene (Aire)‐deficient mice develop an array of autoimmune lesions that reflect failures of immune tolerance. Negative selection is clearly compromised in these mice, but there is evidence to suggest that other mechanisms of tolerance might also be affected, including a possible impairment of regulatory T cell (Treg) development. Studies to date have failed to demonstrate any significant impact on the development or function of the FOXP3+ Treg compartment, but NKT cells represent a distinct regulatory cell lineage that also develop in the thymus and which are known to influence self‐tolerance. Aire‐related defects coincide with NKT cell deficiencies in a number of animal models, but the direct consequence of Aire‐deficiency on NKT cell development has not been established. In this study, we demonstrate that the frequency, distribution and cytokine production of NKT cells and their subsets is principally normal in Aire‐deficient mice. We conclude that Aire has little or no effect on regulatory T cell development in general and NKT cells in particular.
Synthesis, Characterization, Nonlinear Absorption and Electrochromic Properties of Double‐Decker Octakis(mercaptopropylisobutyl‐POSS)phthalocyaninatolanthanide(III) Complexes
Authors: Ceyhan Tanju , Özdağ Mehmet A. , Salih Bekir , Erbil Mehmet K. , Elmalı Ayhan , Özkaya Ali Rıza , Bekaroğlu Özer
Published: September 2008

In this study, the sandwich‐like bis(phthalocyaninato)lanthanide(III) complexes MPc2 (M = Lu, Gd) have been prepared. The reaction of 4,5‐bis(mercaptopropylisobutyl‐POSS)phthalonitrile (1) [POSS: polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane] with lithium gave the dilithium octakis(mercaptopropylisobutyl‐POSS)phthalocyaninate which was further reacted in situ with Lu(OAc)3·3H2O and Gd(OAc)3·4H2O in 1‐pentanol to give compounds 2 and 3, respectively. The structure of the target compounds was confirmed by elemental analysis, UV/Vis and IR spectroscopic as well as MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometric techniques. The nonlinear absorption andoptical limiting (OL) performance of 2 and 3 are investigated by means of the Z‐scan technique. While 2 exhibits a good nonlinear absorption, 3 possesses a low nonlinear absorption. The ratio of the excited‐state to ground‐state absorption cross sections, κ, the effective nonlinear absorption coefficient, βeff, and the energy density, Fsat, were determined for 2. The results indicated that 2 possesses a good combination of optical limiting parameters.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Synthesis, Structure, and Solvent‐Induced Spontaneous Homochiral Assembly of Bidentate Bis(N,N′‐diaryl‐N‐heterocyclic carbene)‐Palladium Complexes
Authors: Makino Takeshi , Masu Hyuma , Katagiri Kosuke , Yamasaki Ryu , Azumaya Isao , Saito Shinichi
Published: September 2008

A series of new bidentate bis(N‐heterocyclic carbene)‐palladium complexes 4a–e and 6 with xanthene framework was synthesized. The X‐ray analyses of the complexes revealed that the complexes have conformational chirality. Homochiral crystals of 4a and 6 were obtained by recrystallization from THF or 1,4‐dioxane as solvent. The energy barriers for racemization of the complexes were calculated from dynamic NMR spectroscopy. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of Structurally Modified Flavin Compounds
Authors: Mansurova Madina , Koay Melissa S. , Gärtner Wolfgang
Published: September 2008

Four structurally modified flavin compounds have been synthesized and characterized for their redox potential by chemical reduction with sodium dithionite. Besides the previously reported 1‐ and 5‐deazariboflavin, a 7,8‐didemethyl derivative and an 8‐isopropylriboflavin have been obtained. The synthesis of these compounds started in all cases from appropriately substituted anilines that were condensed with the ribityl chain, followed by completion of the annealed three‐ring structure. The didemethyl‐ and the isopropyl compounds gave absorption maxima similar to riboflavin (436 and 448 nm, respectively), whereas 1‐deazariboflavin showed a bathochromically shifted absorption (λmax = 537 nm), and that of 5‐deazariboflavin was hypsochromically shifted (λmax = 400 nm). The midpoint potentials (E0′) of the four modified flavin compounds were determined by potentiometric titration, using riboflavin as a reference compound. Both alkyl‐modified flavins showed slightly less negative midpoint potentials, whereas both deaza compounds had more negative midpoint values compared to the reference compound. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Nanofibrillar Cellulose‐Chitosan Composite Film Electrodes: Competitive Binding of Triclosan, Fe(CN)63−/4−, and SDS Surfactant
Authors: Tsourounaki Kostoula , Bonné Michael J. , Thielemans Wim , Psillakis Elefteria , Helton Matthew , McKee Anthony , Marken Frank
Published: September 2008

Glassy carbon electrodes are modified with a thin film of a cellulose‐chitosan nanocomposite. Cellulose nanofibrils (of ca. 4 nm diameter and 250 nm length) are employed as an inert backbone and chitosan (poly‐D‐glucosamine, low molecular weight, 75–85% deacetylated) is introduced as a structural binder and “receptor” or molecular binding site. The composite films are formed in a solvent evaporation method and prepared in approximately 0.8 μm thickness. The adsorption of three molecular systems into the cellulose‐chitosan films is investigated and approximate Langmuirian binding constants are evaluated: i) Fe(CN)64− (KFerrocyanide=2.2×103 mol−1 dm3 in 0.1 M phosphate buffer at pH 6) is observed to bind to ammonium chitosan functionalities (present at pH<7), ii) triclosan (KTriclosan=2.6×103 mol−1 dm3 in 0.1 M phosphate buffer pH 9.5) is shown to bind only weakly and under alkaline conditions, and iii) the anionic surfactant dodecylsulfate (KSDS=3.3×104 mol−1 dm3 in 0.1 M phosphate buffer pH 6) is shown to bind relatively more strongly in acidic media. The competitive binding of Fe(CN)64− and dodecylsulfate anions is proposed as a way to accumulate and indirectly determine the anionic surfactant.
High‐resolution genomic profiling of adenomas and carcinomas of the salivary glands reveals amplification, rearrangement, and fusion of HMGA2
Authors: Persson Fredrik , Andrén Ywonne , Winnes Marta , Wedell Barbro , Nordkvist Anders , Gudnadottir Gunhildur , Dahlenfors Rigmor , Sjögren Helene , Mark Joachim , Stenman Göran
Published: September 2008

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (Ca‐ex‐PA) is an epithelial malignancy developing within a benign salivary gland pleomorphic adenoma (PA). Here we have used genome‐wide, high‐resolution array‐CGH, and fluorescence in situ hybridization to identify genes amplified in double min chromosomes and homogeneously staining regions in PA and Ca‐ex‐PA and to identify additional genomic imbalances characteristic of these tumor types. Ten of the 16 tumors analyzed showed amplification/gain of a 30‐kb minimal common region, consisting of the 5′‐part of HMGA2 (encoding the three DNA‐binding domains). Coamplification of MDM2 was found in nine tumors. Five tumors had cryptic HMGA2‐WIF1 gene fusions with amplification of the fusion oncogene in four tumors. Expression analysis of eight amplified candidate genes in 12q revealed that tumors with amplification/rearrangement of HMGA2 and MDM2 had significantly higher expression levels when compared with tumors without amplification. Analysis of individual HMGA2 exons showed that the expression of exons 3–5 were substantially reduced when compared with exons 1–2 in 9 of 10 tumors with HMGA2 activation, indicating that gene fusions and rearrangements of HMGA2 are common in tumors with amplification. In addition, recurrent amplifications/gains of 1q11‐q32.1, 2p16.1‐p12, 8q12.1, 8q22‐24.1, and 20, and losses of 1p21.3‐p21.1, 5q23.2‐q31.2, 8p, 10q21.3, and 15q11.2 were identified. Collectively, our results identify HMGA2 and MDM2 as amplification targets in PA and Ca‐ex‐PA and suggest that amplification of 12q genes (in particular MDM2), deletions of 5q23.2‐q31.2, gains of 8q12.1 (PLAG1) and 8q22.1‐q24.1 (MYC), and amplification of ERBB2 may be of importance for malignant transformation of benign PA. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synergistic anti‐tumor effect of paclitaxel with CRM197, an inhibitor of HB‐EGF, in ovarian cancer
Authors: Yagi Hiroshi , Yotsumoto Fusanori , Sonoda Kenzo , Kuroki Masahide , Mekada Eisuke , Miyamoto Shingo
Published: September 2008

Heparin‐binding EGF‐like growth factor (HB‐EGF) plays a pivotal role in tumor growth and clinical outcomes in patients with ovarian cancer, leading to the validation of HB‐EGF as a target for ovarian cancer therapy. In this study, we investigated the anti‐tumor effects of paclitaxel, as an anti‐cancer agent, and CRM197, as a specific inhibitor off HB‐EGF, in ovarian cancer. Paclitaxel induced transient ERK activation and sustained activation of JNK and p38 MAPK through the ectodomain shedding of HB‐EGF in SKOV3 cells. In addition, the overexpression of HB‐EGF in paclitaxel‐treated SKOV3 cells resulted in modulation of paclitaxel‐evoked MAPK signaling, including marked activation of ERK and Akt, and minimized activation of JNK and p38 MAPK, indicating that HB‐EGF is involved in drug sensitivity through the balance of anti‐apoptotic and pro‐apoptotic signals induced by paclitaxel. The combination of paclitaxel with CRM197 had an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and enhanced apoptosis via the inhibition of ERK and Akt activation and the stimulation of p38 and JNK activation. More prominently, the administration of paclitaxel with CRM197 resulted in synergistic anti‐tumor effects in SKOV3 cells and in SKOV3 cells overexpressing HB‐EGF in xenografted mice. Accordingly, inhibitory agents against HB‐EGF, such as CRM197, represent possible chemotherapeutic and chemosensitizing agents for ovarian cancer. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In situ determination of sulfate turnover in peatlands: A down‐scaled push–pull tracer technique
Authors: Goldhammer Tobias , Einsiedl Florian , Blodau Christian
Published: September 2008

Bacterial sulfate reduction (BSR) is a key process in anaerobic respiration in wetlands and may have considerable impacts on methane emissions. A method to determine sulfate production and consumption in situ is lacking to date. We applied a single‐well, injection‐withdrawal tracer test for the in situ determination of potential sulfate turnover in a northern temperate peatland. Piezometers were installed in three peat depth levels (20, 30, and 50 cm) during summer 2004, and three series of injection‐withdrawal cycles were carried out over a period of several days. Turnover rates of sulfate, calculated from first‐order‐reaction constant k (–0.097 to 0.053 h–1) and pore‐water sulfate concentrations (approx. 10 µmol L–1), ranged from –1.3 to –9.0 nmol cm–3 d–1 for reduction and from +0.7 to +25.4 nmol cm–2 d–1 for production, which occurred after infiltration of water following a heavy rainstorm. Analysis of stable isotopes in peat‐water sulfate revealed slightly increasing δ34S values and decreasing sulfate concentrations indicating the presence of BSR. The calculated low sulfur‐fractionation factors of <2‰ are in line with high sulfate‐reduction rates during BSR. Routine application will require technical optimization, but the method seems a promising addition to common ex situ techniques, as the investigated soil is not structurally altered. The method can furthermore be applied at low expense even in remote locations.
Macromol. Biosci. 10/2008
Authors: Pasquier Nicolas , Keul Helmut , Heine Elisabeth , Moeller Martin , Angelov Borislav , Linser Sebastian , Willumeit Regine
Published: September 2008

Cover: Cationic amphiphilic polymers were prepared from poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) and functional ethylene carbonates bearing cationic or hydrophobic groups. These polymers are designed to exhibit antimicrobial properties. Further details can be found in the article by N. Pasquier, H. Keul, E. Heine, M. Moeller,* B. Angelov, S. Linser, and R. Willumeit on page 903.
Short Electrospun Fibers by UV Cutting Method
Authors: Stoiljkovic Aleksandar , Agarwal Seema
Published: September 2008

Short electrospun fibers were obtained by using UV cutting method. Either polymers with double bonds with a photocross‐linker (CL) and photoinitiator (PI) or known photochemistry of coumarin ([2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction) without the addition of CL and PI is utilized for making short electrospun fibers. The electrospun fibers were irradiated by UV light in the presence of a mask with a defined width of slits. The uncovered parts of fibers were cross‐linked and therefore became insoluble. The non‐cross‐linked parts were removed by immersion of the fibers into an appropriate solvent. The length of obtained short fibers can be controlled by changing the width of the slits of the employed mask.

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Copolymers of Poly(2,5‐benzimidazole) and Poly[2,2′‐(p‐phenylene)‐5,5′‐bibenzimidazole] for High‐Temperature Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Kim Sung‐Kon , Kim Tae‐Ho , Jung Jung‐Woo , Lee Jong‐Chan
Published: September 2008

Copolymers of poly(2,5‐benzimidazole) (ABPBI) and poly[2,2′‐(p‐phenylene)‐5,5′‐bibenzimidazole] (pPBI) were synthesized for use as fuel cell membranes to take advantage of the properties of both constituents. The composition of the copolymers were controlled by changing the feed ratio of 3,4‐diaminobenzoic acid and terephthalic acid with 3,3′‐diaminobenzidine in the polycondensation reaction. The copolymer membranes showed higher conductivities, better mechanical properties, and larger acid absorbing abilities than commercial poly[2,2′‐(m‐phenylene)‐5,5′‐bibenzimidazole] membranes.

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Large‐Scale Synthesis of Water Soluble Non‐Ionic Dendrons by Stepwise Extraction Purifications
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Yu , Lee Byung‐Ill , Cho Byoung‐Ki
Published: September 2008

First and second generation aliphatic polyether dendrons based upon poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) peripheries have been prepared using a combination of a Williamson etherification and hydroboration/oxidation reactions. The purification after each synthetic step was performed by stepwise extraction, after which the reaction yields were found to be greater than 80%. The dendrons obtained showed narrow molecular weight distributions of less than 1.09, and this was confirmed by mass spectrometry and gel permeation chromatography. Since the synthesis procedure did not involve column chromatography, it was successfully scaled up to larger quantities. The hydrophilic non‐ionic dendrons prepared by this straightforward method may be employed as building blocks in the design of functional soft materials such as ionic conductors and drug carriers.

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The evolution and future of hospital medicine
Authors: O'Leary MD Kevin J. , Williams MD Mark V.
Published: September 2008

Hospitalists practice hospital medicine, which represents the fastest growing medical speciality in the history of American medicine. Initially fueled by research demonstrating reductions in lengths of stay and hospital costs, the hospitalist movement has continued to gather momentum as a response to residency work hour revisions, patient flow challenges in hospitals, and a growing national focus on patient safety. Hospitalists have expanded the clinical services they provide to include coverage of the critically ill, palliative care, and surgical co‐management. Hospitalists increasingly participate in nonclinical activities as well, including teaching, research, quality improvement, and clinical informatics.

Challenges remain for this new field of medicine and present opportunities for research and innovation. Work life satisfaction may be enhanced by efforts to optimize workload and redesign care delivery models. Hospitalists may continue to demonstrate value to stakeholders by leading efforts to improve quality of care, especially in areas such as interdisciplinary communication and smoothing patients' transitions between care settings. Hospitalists should continue to take an active role in improving clinical efficiency and work with hospitals to fully leverage the capabilities of information and telecommunication systems. Looking to the future, hospitalists have exciting potential for a positive impact in a broad range of areas and lasting effect on healthcare delivery. Mt Sinai J Med 75:418–423, 2008. © 2008 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Human oral cancers have altered expression of Bcl‐2 family members and increased expression of the anti‐apoptotic splice variant of Mcl‐1
Authors: Mallick S , Patil R , Gyanchandani R , Pawar S , Palve V , Kannan S , Pathak KA , Choudhary M , Teni TR
Published: September 2008

Expression of Bcl‐2 family proteins in tumours can modulate apoptosis, influencing tumour behaviour and treatment. To investigate their role in oral tumourigenesis, nine Bcl‐2 family transcripts were examined in three oral cell lines and 25 oral tumours, using ribonuclease protection assay. Since Mcl‐1 mRNA was elevated in these samples, Mcl‐1 splice variants were assessed by RT–PCR and Mcl‐1 protein was studied in normal, premalignant and malignant oral tissues and cell lines, by immunohistochemistry and/or immunoblotting. The cell lines exhibited significantly higher levels of 7/9 Bcl‐2 family transcripts as compared to those in normal tongue, and significantly higher (p = 0.030, p = 0.004) anti‐apoptotic versus pro‐apoptotic transcripts. Elevated Mcl‐1 mRNA was observed in 11/25 (44%) tumours as compared to normal tissues with a five‐ to ten‐fold higher expression of full‐length anti‐apoptotic Mcl‐1 transcript versus the pro‐apoptotic short isoform. Strong cytoplasmic Mcl‐1 immunoreactivity was detected predominantly in differentiated epithelia in 27/33 (82%) oral tumours, 18/20 (90%) leukoplakia, 25/30 (83%) submucous fibrosis and 3/3 oral cell lines, with weak staining in 8/15 (53%) normal mucosa samples. Mcl‐1 positivity in malignant and premalignant tissues was comparable but significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that in normal mucosa. The expression of bcl‐2 family genes, including Mcl‐1 in tumours, did not correlate significantly with clinicopathological parameters. This is the first report delineating the in vivo expression patterns of Mcl‐1 protein and Mcl‐1 transcripts in oral cancers and premalignant lesions. The observed imbalance between expression of anti‐apoptotic and pro‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 family genes may promote survival in the oral cell lines. Since the majority of oral tumours associated with tobacco‐chewing evolve from premalignant lesions, the sustained expression of full‐length anti‐apoptotic Mcl‐1 protein in these tissues suggests an important role for Mcl‐1, early in oral cancer pathogenesis in protecting cells from apoptosis via neutralization of pro‐apoptotic members and could be a potential therapeutic target for oral cancers. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An impending crisis in the provision of histopathology expertise for mouse functional genomics
Authors: Warren MV , Studley ML , Dubus P , Fiette L , Rozell B , Quintanilla‐Martinez L , Raspa M , Breuer M , Song J‐Y , Gates H , Brown SDM , Schofield PN
Published: September 2008

The generation of new mouse models of human disease is accelerating rapidly, due to the completion of whole‐genome sequencing efforts and technological advances in the manipulation of the mouse genome. We sought to investigate manpower issues in the provision of histopathology expertise for mouse functional genomics and compared this to the perceived demand from principal investigators (PIs). Through the European Commission (EC)‐funded PRIME pathology training initiative, two questionnaires were devised to collect information from pathologists and EC‐funded PIs on the current provision of mouse histopathology expertise in Europe and the demands for this service. We find that pathological analysis is being performed almost exclusively by professionally qualified pathologists, generally employed in clinical diagnostic posts, where the work is undertaken as collaboration outside of their contractual commitments but without previous training in veterinary or comparative pathology. The results indicate that there is a lack of both trainees and provision of specialist training in this field. Unsurprisingly, the availability of diagnostic expertise and advice falls far short of the number of genetically engineered mice (GEM) being generated for analysis. We analyse these results with reference to previous studies and discuss solutions for the future recruitment, training and funding for pathologists in mouse functional genomics in Europe. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SH3GL2 and CDKN2A/2B loci are independently altered in early dysplastic lesions of head and neck: correlation with HPV infection and tobacco habit
Authors: Ghosh Amlan , Ghosh Susmita , Maiti Guru P , Sabbir Mohammed G , Alam Neyaz , Sikdar Nilabja , Roy Bidyut , Roychoudhury Susanta , Panda Chinmay K
Published: September 2008

To understand the association of candidate tumour suppressor genes SH3GL2, p16INK4a, p14ARF, and p15INK4b in the pathogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), we studied the deletion, mutation, and methylation of these genes in 61 dysplastic lesions and 94 HNSCC samples. In mild dysplasia, SH3GL2, p16INK4a, and p14ARF showed a higher frequency of overall alterations (60–70%) than in p15INK4b (40%). However, in subsequent stages of tumour progression, the alteration frequency of these genes did not change significantly. One novel mutation in common exon 2 of p16INK4a/p14ARF and three in exon 9 of SH3GL2 were seen. Concordance was seen in the expression of these genes with their molecular alterations. Deletions of INK4A‐ARF and p15INK4b have a significant poor patient outcome. The alterations of p16INK4a, p14ARF, and p15INK4b were positively correlated with tobacco and inversely with HPV, while SH3GL2 alterations were independent of these factors. Based on aetiological factors, four tumour subtypes were recognized: HPV−tobacco− (I), HPV+tobacco− (II), HPV−tobacco+ (III), and HPV+tobacco+ (IV). Groups III and IV showed a high frequency of p16INK4a/p14ARF/p15INK4b alterations with significant poor patient outcome in comparison to group II. Our findings suggest that deregulation of SH3GL2‐associated signalling and p16INK4a/p14ARF/p15INK4b‐mediated G1–S/G2–M checkpoints of cell cycle are independent pathways for the development of early dysplastic lesions of the head and neck. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Denial in lung cancer patients: a longitudinal study
Authors: Vos Martina S. , Putter Hein , van Houwelingen Hans C. , de Haes Hanneke C. J. M.
Published: September 2008

Background: Although denial in cancer patients is well known clinically, few studies investigating the prevalence of denial over time have been conducted.

The objectives of this study are to investigate the level of denial in lung cancer patients over time and the impact of socio‐demographic and illness‐related variables on denial in these patients.

Methods: The level of denial was measured in 195 consecutive newly diagnosed lung cancer patients, using the Denial of Cancer Interview. Four assessments were conducted in eight months.

Socio‐demographic data were collected during the interviews. Medical data were provided by the chest physicians.

Results: Most patients (86.6%) displayed a low or moderate level of denial at baseline. A small number (3%) showed a high level of denial. The mean level of denial was lowest at baseline and increased over time.

Male lung cancer patients exhibited more denial than did female ones, and younger patients showed less denial than did the elderly. Shortly after diagnosis, patients with a lower level of education denied stronger than higher educated patients, and during the course of illness, both groups showed the same level of denial.

Conclusion: A certain level of denial has to be considered a normal phenomenon in lung cancer patients, part of the illness process that they undergo.

Whether the level of denial is related to adaptive or maladaptive coping remains to be investigated. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plasma Process. Polym. 8/2008
Authors: Cech Vladimir , Zemek Josef , Perina Vratislav
Published: September 2008

Cover: Using the same monomer (vinyltriethoxysilane), the plasma polymer film of different elemental composition and chemical structure may be fabricated changing the RF pulsed power. The chemical modification of plasma polymer together with the variability of incorporated functional groups is useful for tailored interlayers to join inorganic and organic materials. Further details can be found in the article by V. Cech,* J. Zemek, and V. Perina on page 745.
Towards predicting Ca2+‐binding sites with different coordination numbers in proteins with atomic resolution
Authors: Wang Xue , Kirberger Michael , Qiu Fasheng , Chen Guantao , Yang Jenny J.
Published: September 2008

Ca2+‐binding sites in proteins exhibit a wide range of polygonal geometries that directly relate to an equally‐diverse set of biological functions. Although the highly‐conserved EF‐Hand motif has been studied extensively, non‐EF‐Hand sites exhibit much more structural diversity which has inhibited efforts to determine the precise location of Ca2+‐binding sites, especially for sites with few coordinating ligands. Previously, we established an algorithm capable of predicting Ca2+‐binding sites using graph theory to identify oxygen clusters comprised of four atoms lying on a sphere of specified radius, the center of which was the predicted calcium position. Here we describe a new algorithm, MUG (MUltiple Geometries), which predicts Ca2+‐binding sites in proteins with atomic resolution. After first identifying all the possible oxygen clusters by finding maximal cliques, a calcium center (CC) for each cluster, corresponding to the potential Ca2+ position, is located to maximally regularize the structure of the (cluster, CC) pair. The structure is then inspected by geometric filters. An unqualified (cluster, CC) pair is further handled by recursively removing oxygen atoms and relocating the CC until its structure is either qualified or contains fewer than four ligand atoms. Ligand coordination is then determined for qualified structures. This algorithm, which predicts both Ca2+ positions and ligand groups, has been shown to successfully predict over 90% of the documented Ca2+‐binding sites in three datasets of highly‐diversified protein structures with 0.22 to 0.49 Å accuracy. All multiple‐binding sites (i.e. sites with a single ligand atom associated with multiple calcium ions) were predicted, as were half of the low‐coordination sites (i.e. sites with less than four protein ligand atoms) and 14/16 cofactor‐coordinating sites. Additionally, this algorithm has the flexibility to incorporate surface water molecules and protein cofactors to further improve the prediction for low‐coordination and cofactor‐coordinating Ca2+‐binding sites. Proteins 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.