bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linkages between Workplace Aggression and Organizational Environment: A Study of Non-academic Staff in the University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Chinonso Ogazi, Francisca , Eleje Enya, Immaculletta , Ruth Ilesanmi, Taiwo , Adeniyi Morantiola, Kabiru , Oluwayomi Laseinde, James
Published: February 2024

Aggression is an emotional behaviour that causes feelings of hostility. It can be internally or externally triggered; displaying violence action that is hostile to the subjects. The problem of aggression is that sometimes, it can be in action without externally provoked. and has the capacity of disrupting interpersonal relationships and work productivity. Thus, the study was carried out to develop and validate Workplace Aggression Scale for assessing Linkages Between Workplace Aggression and Organizational Environment: A Study of Non Academic Staff University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Three research objectives, 4 questions with 2 hypotheses were used. The population of the study includes all the staff of Education. Sample size was 30(15males and 15females) respondents. Design was Correlation Survey Descriptive Design and Stratified Purposive Sampling. Workplace Aggression Assessment Scale (WAAS) is a new construct scale that was developed by the researcher for determining aggression at workplace. It is in its first time self scale for assessing the aggression on the workplace. The scale with five points from 1-5 tested both work environment and personality factors using 20- items scale. 1 indicates (Always) and 5 indicate (Never). The 20 items measured Internal Consistence of the factors and obtained Cornbach Alpha PE (.748) and EN (.799) summed as (.774). It was discovered that WAAS contents can be used for other related factors like stress and anxiety at work. The data was analyzed using SPSS. The findings of the research revealed that Personality and Environment (X = 1.8, SD= 0.33); T-value (t-test=17.03, t-crit= 1.73, p= .000<0.05); S.M.E.(3.20); Variance (107.9); Skewness (0.519); SK.S.E (0.689); Kutosis (-0.149) and K.S.E (1.339) were all accepted as perceived determinants factors for workplace aggression on Linkages Between Workplace Aggression and Organizational Environment: A Study of Non Academic Staff in the, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Based on the findings, the study recommended that counseling services should be highly considered in every institution of human beings if the issues of workplace aggression must be addressed.
The Effectiveness of Teacher’s Classroom Assessment Practices on Predicting Pupils Learning of English Concept in Public Primary Schools
Authors: Chaula Neema Amos
Published: February 2024

This paper aimed at assessing the effectiveness of teachers’ classroom assessment practices on predicting pupils’ learning English concept. The main objectives were to assess teacher’s classroom assessment practices in teaching English concept and predicting the pupils’ English performance using the classroom assessment. The study used mixed design approach and data were collected through questionnaires and classroom observations. The study found that the common assessment methods used by English teachers are traditional methods of assessment which based on paper and pencil while modern assessment methods such as portfolio, peer and self-assessment, oral presentation were less used in public primary schools. However, the study found that purpose of assessment was highly perceived by English teachers to be usefulness in classroom assessment practices, while source of test items perceived to be less usefulness. It was also revealed that there was strong positive relationship between excise, test and examination in predicting pupils’ English performance.
Experiences of Women Living with Cervical Cancer: A Study in the Tamale Metropolis
Authors: Musa Emmanuella Rabi , Boateng Keren-Happuch Twumasiwaa
Published: February 2024

Background: Cervical cancer cases are increasing globally, including in Ghana. Nevertheless, despite the increasing prevalence of this ailment among women, there has been a dearth of extensive research conducted on the subject. Research conducted in several countries has shown that individuals who have survived cervical cancer face numerous difficulties, including socioeconomic, medical, and psychological issues. This study aims to investigate the experiences of women in this particular group, with a focus on the psychological, socio-economic, and hurdles encountered when seeking care.

Methodology: The study employed an exploratory descriptive qualitative design. The research was carried out in the Tamale Metropolis, with a specific focus on women who have received a diagnosis of the condition and are now receiving treatment at the Tamale Teaching Hospital. Participants for the study were recruited using purposive sampling. Participants were interviewed face-to-face using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews recorded on tape were transcribed exactly as spoken and subsequently evaluated manually using the content analysis method. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the results.

Findings: The results indicate that women residing in the Tamale Metropolis who have cervical cancer encounter a disturbance in their social lives, as shown by their unsatisfactory interactions with others. While certain close relatives, acquaintances, and colleagues offer support, others are left behind at times of necessity.

Recommendations: Policymakers and the government should implement measures to cover the expenses associated with cervical cancer treatment, similar to how it is done for other diseases through the NHIS. Women diagnosed with cervical cancer should undergo counseling to alleviate the psychological distress they experience.
Ethno-veterinary Practices in the Southern Districts in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Karthick. M  , Maharasi. C  , Krithika. S  , Anthony S  , Balachandar M  , Azhagu Raj. R
Published: February 2024

The present work deals with the survey of ethno-veterinary medicinal plants used by folk communities of southern districts (Tirunelveli, Tenkasi and Tuticorin districts), Tamil Nadu, India. An ethno-veterinary data was collected through semi-structured interviews and questionnaires from traditional practitioners, farmers, herders, village elders and women’s, from seventeen villages of three districts. These people have their own an ethno-medicine, ethno-veterinary treatment systems of diseases both for human as well as for their livestock. In this study, the common cattle diseases of the area are foot & mouth disease (FMT), anthrax, pneumonia, ectoparasites, diarrhea, etc. The different cattle diseases are listed along with their treatment system. Here as many as twenty-eight (28) medicinal plants belonging to from twenty (20) different families 27 genera were documented which were used by the indigenous communities with their vernacular names, family, plant parts used and animal disease curing property.
Identifying Optimal Conceptual Design of a Briquetting Machine
Authors: Vincent Philip E. , Olabanji O. M , Farayibi P.K , Oluwaseun Jegede J.
Published: February 2024

Briquetting is a mechanical compaction process for increasing the density of bulky materials. Briquette is an example of biomass which is a renewable source of energy. As the world turn to renewable energy due to global warming, depletion of fossil fuel reserves and deforestation. The demand for briquetting machines is on the increase. This high demand and large market for briquetting machines has result in the need for briquetting machines with extended capabilities and design customization. This calls for an elaborate conceptual design phase. This research adopts a fuzzified Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) model, (COPRAS) to identify the optimal conceptual design from four conceptual designs of briquette making machine, operating based on different principles. This was achieved by considering eight (8) design features and their sub features as the criterion to analyze, evaluate and measure the four conceptual designs. The result shows that in applying the COPRAS-F model, several decision makers choice can be factored into the process of choosing an optimal design, from a group of designs and still generate a valid result.
Phytochemical Profile, Acute Toxicity, Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Hydroethanolic Extracts from Odontonema strictum (Nees) Kuntze (Acanthaceae) Root and Stem
Authors: Mathieu Nitiema , Lazare Belemnaba , Christian Ouedraogo Windingoudi Rimwagna , Mohamed Belemlilga Bonewendé , Salfo Ouedraogo , Moumouni Koala , Aristide Traore , Fifamin Ahounou Aïkpe Judith , Noufou Ouedraogo , Félix Kini Bondo , Sylvin Ouedraogo
Published: February 2024

Background: The leaves of Odontonema strictum (Nees) Kuntze (Acanthaceae), a decorative plant native to Latin America, are used to treat hypertension in alternative medicine. However, the other parts of the plant have not yet been investigated for their antihypertensive properties. Aims: Our study aimed to investigate phytochemical groups with antihypertensive potential, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and the safety of using stems and roots hydroethanolic extracts.

Methodology: Phytochemical screening by HPTLC and determining flavonoids and total polyphenols were carried out. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using ABTS, FRAP, DPPH, and LPO methods. The inhibitory activity of Phospholipase A2 and 15-lipoxygenase was determined. Finally, acute oral toxicity was carried out on female mice NMRI.

Results: The hydroethanolic extracts of Odontonema strictum root (HE_ROS) and stem (HE_SOS) contain tannins, sterols, triterpenes, flavonoids, and saponosides. HE_SOS gave the highest levels of flavonoids (23.69±1.10 mg QE/g) and total phenolics (64.15±4.02 mg TAE/g. The two hydroethanolic extracts had antioxidant activity, with HE_ROS being the best. However, these activities were lower than Trolox (p<0.05). The extracts have a moderate inhibitory effect on 15-lipoxygenase and Phospholipase A2. Finally, HE_ROS and HE_SOS are practically non-toxic when administered once orally.

Conclusion: This study provided scientific data and could justify the use of Odontonema strictum in the treatment of hypertension.
Biodiversity Conservation in Agricultural Landscapes: The Role of Integrated Farming Systems
Authors: Jayaraj M.  , Sangothari A. , Archana H. A. , Vasuki A. , Surya R. , Keerthana T.
Published: February 2024

Agricultural landscapes, while essential for food production, often come at the cost of biodiversity loss. The utilization of conventional farming practices has led to habitat degradation, reduced species diversity, and ecological imbalances. In response, Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) have emerged as a promising approach to reconcile agricultural production with biodiversity conservation. This review examines the pivotal role of IFS in mitigating the adverse impacts of agriculture on biodiversity within the context of five key subheadings: (1) Understanding Integrated Farming Systems, (2) Enhancing Habitat Heterogeneity, (3) Promoting Agroecological Practices, (4) Managing Landscape Connectivity, and (5) Evaluating Socioeconomic Implications. We delve into the theoretical underpinnings, practical applications, and scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of IFS in preserving biodiversity. Furthermore, we explore the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing IFS and the potential for IFS to contribute to sustainable agricultural landscapes. The findings emphasize the need for a holistic approach that integrates ecological, agronomic, and sociocultural dimensions to foster biodiversity conservation in agricultural landscapes.
In vitro Inhibition of Rhizoctonia solani Radial Growth by Native Mycoflora: Implications for Root Rot Disease in Chili
Authors: Kumari Anupam , Jha P. K. , Sen Anamita
Published: February 2024

In the course of the study, native bioagents isolated from the rhizosphere of the chili crop were used to manage the soil-borne pathogens Rhizoctonia solani. The study was conducted in the laboratory of the Department of Plant Pathology and Nematology, RPCAU, Pusa, Bihar in the year 2020-23. The soil microflora (fungal and bacterial) was isolated from the rhizosphere of Chili and screened in vitro by evaluating their antagonistic potential against Rhizoctonia solani, and resultantly two fungal and two bacterial isolates were found most effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of the pathogen over control. The maximum percent inhibition was recorded in the case of Trichoderma harzianum (71.98%) followed by Trichoderma viride (62.54%) and among the bacterial isolates maximum inhibition was recorded in the case of RB1 that inhibit (69.38%), followed by RB6 (66.42%). Overall, these findings suggest that the combination of Trichoderma and Bacteria could be an effective and sustainable method for reducing the radial growth of Rhizoctonia solani causing Root rot disease in chilli. Rhizoctonia solani was established as a causal organism of chili. The use of Bio-control agents is an eco-friendly approach and a good option to manage soil borne phyto-pathogens. These biological control agents either use the mechanism of antibiosis or mycoparasitism against the fungal pathogen. Evaluation of Trichoderma spp. and Bacterial isolates against Rhizoctonia solani showed that significantly reduced the mycelial growth of Rhizoctonia solani in vitro.
Probing Behaviour of Brown Planthopper Nilaparvata lugens (Stal.) in the Resistant Germplasm Accessions
Authors: Shilpakala V. , Lakshmi V. Jhansi , Venkatesarulu N.C. , Madhav M. Seshu , Tamilmurugan R. , Devi R. Sarada Jayalakshmi
Published: February 2024

A total of 1110 ENRRD rice germplasm accessions were evaluated for their resistance to brown planthopper, BPH in glass house by adopting internationally accepted standard seed box screening technique and scored on 0-9 scale by following the IRRI method of standard evaluation system for rice. Among 1110 rice germplasm accessions tested, 3 were categorized as Highly resistant, 24 as resistant, 19 as moderately resistant, 192 as moderately susceptible, 509 as susceptible and rest of other 363 genotypes were highly susceptible to BPH. The studies on antixenosis mechanism of resistance for feeding by probing marks revealed that resistant entries, were least preferred by BPH nymphs and adults with more number of probing marks The results indicate that the germplasm accessions viz., IC 343457, IC 300168 and IC 377051 were highly resistant and possess non- preference mechanism of resistance and are not preferred by BPH for feeding. The identified resistant entries can be used in the breeding programmes to develop BPH resistant varieties.
Transformation of Mechanical Performance and Corrosion Susceptibility of Al-Zn-Mg Alloy through Varied Flame Rectifications
Authors: Li Shuai , Ai Shuaizhe , Guo Dan , Yan Dejun , Lu Hao , Yang Guoshun , Xu Rongzheng , Liao Chuanqing , Li Ningning , Jiang Yonggang
Published: February 2024

The mechanical properties and corrosion performance of Al-Zn-Mg alloy through varied flame rectifications was studied based on the intergranular corrosion, exfoliation corrosion experiment. The results showed that the flame rectification accelerated the corrosion susceptibility of Al-Zn-Mg alloy. And the maximum intergranular corrosion depth are detected with the value of 89 mm after three time of flame rectification. The tensile strength of Al-Zn-Mg alloy increased to 383 MPa after one time of flame rectification in 300 °C. Then there is no significant change of tensile strength of Al-Zn-Mg alloy with the increase of flame rectification times. The change of corrosion resistance of Al-Zn-Mg alloy with varied flame rectifications is mainly associated with the transformation of precipitates and grains. There is a notable increase in the precipitation of phases within the grains after one time of flame rectification at 300°C. However, after two times of flame rectification, a phenomenon of "redissolution" of precipitated phases occurs. After three times of flame rectification, small-sized new grains appear at the grain boundaries of the elongated grains within the correction area, which is the result of incomplete recrystallization in the alloy.
Molecular Epidemiology of Fluoroquinolones Resistance Genes among Non-typhoidal Salmonella Species from Humans and Poultry Faeces in Ido-Ekiti, Ekiti State
Authors: Ipinlaye J. O. , Oluyege A. O.
Published: February 2024

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) strains are among the most common bacterial pathogens associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) where animals are known to be the major reservoir of NTS despite improvements in hygiene and sanitation. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and basis of fluoroquinolone resistance genes in non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) recovered from human and poultry fecal samples in Ido Ekiti. The study used a total of 300 fecal samples,100 from humans and 200 from poultry sources. Faecal samples were cultured using Selenite F broth and XLD agar. Isolates were identified using morphology, biochemical tests, and molecular characterization. Antibiotic susceptibility were determined using disc diffusion test. Plasmid extraction and curing were done using alkaline lysis and Ethidium Bromide. Phylogenetic relatedness was determined using the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean. The results revealed that 10.7% of NTS were identified, with 9% from human and 11.5% from poultry sources. High resistance to ofloxacin (77.8%) was observed in both human and poultry samples. S. enteritidis from human sources had a concomitant presence of two qnr genes (qnrA and qnrS) at 20%, while only qnrS (60%) was detected from poultry sources. Statistically significant risk factors for NTS infection among human included the consumption of poultry products and the use of untreated poultry droppings. The study identified Qnr resistance gene in ESBL producing S. enteritidis from both human and poultry sources in Ido Ekiti and are plasmid borne, establishing the role of plasmids in the acquisition, and spread of antibiotic resistance of fluoroquinolones.
Twists and turns in the development and maintenance of the mammalian small intestine epithelium
Authors: Hauck Andrew L. , Swanson Kelly S. , Kenis Paul J. A. , Leckband Deborah E. , Gaskins H. Rex , Schook Lawrence B.
Published: April 2005

Experimental studies during the last decade have revealed a number of signaling pathways that are critical for the development and maintenance of the intestinal epithelium and that demonstrate the molecular basis for a variety of diseases. The Notch‐Delta, Wnt, Hedge Hog, TGF‐β, and other signaling pathways have been shown to form and steadily maintain the crypt‐villus system, generating the proper quantities of highly‐specialized cells, and ultimately defining the architectural shape of the system. Based on the characterized phenotypes and functional defects of mice resulting from various targeted knockouts, and overexpression and misexpressions of genes, a picture is emerging of the sequence of gene expression events from within the epithelium, and in the underlying mesenchyme that contribute to the regulation of cell differentiation and proliferation. This review focuses on the contributions of multiple signaling pathways to intestinal epithelial proliferation, differentiation, and structural organization, as well as the possible opportunities for cross‐talk between pathways. The Notch pathway's potential ability to maintain and regulate the intestinal epithelial stem cell is discussed, in addition to its role as the primary mediator of lineage specification. Recent research that has shed light on the function of Wnt signaling and epithelial‐mesenchymal cross‐talk during embryonic and postnatal development is examined, along with data on the interplay of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in the signaling process. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 75:58–71, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Myocutaneous flaps promote perineal healing in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Collie M H S , Potter M A , Bartolo D C C
Published: April 2005

Rectus abdominis flap seems best
Further studies on knockout mice lacking a functional dynein heavy chain (MDHC7). 1. Evidence for a structural deficit in the axoneme
Authors: Vernon Geraint G. , Neesen Juergen , Woolley David M.
Published: April 2005

Male mice had previously been generated in which the inner dynein arm heavy chain 7 gene (MDHC7) was inactivated by the substitution of four exons encoding the ATP‐binding site (P1‐loop) with the neomycin resistance gene, giving a putative non‐functional gene product. We have used additional techniques of electron microscopy to determine what effect the truncated, non‐functional heavy chain has on the assembly of the inner dynein arm complex. From a comparison of MDHC7−/− with the wild‐type morphology, we have found that the expected loss of a C‐terminal (globular) domain is associated with inner dynein arm 3, a change from two visible “heads” to one. This deficit was seen in replicas of rapidly‐frozen, deeply‐etched spermatozoa, and was confirmed in filtered images of 20‐nm‐thin sections, cut in longitudinal planes. Assembly of the other IDAs appeared unaffected. This study is the first to reveal the location of a specific dynein heavy chain within the 96‐nm repeat pattern of the inner dynein arms of the mammalian axoneme. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 61:65–73, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparation and characterization of electrodeposited indium selenide thin films
Authors: Gopal S. , Viswanathan C. , Karunagaran B. , Narayandass Sa. K. , Mangalaraj D. , Yi Junsin
Published: April 2005

Indium Selenide (InSe) thin films were deposited from a mixture of Indium chloride and selenium dioxide in aqueous solution by electrodeposition technique on Indium Tin oxide coated glass substrates. The effects of the parameters during deposition such as current density, deposition potential versus saturated calomel electrode, pH value and concentration of source material were studied. X‐ray diffraction studies were carried out on the films to analyze the microstructure using an x‐ray diffractometer and were examined by RAMAN spectroscopy. The Raman peak position did not change much with chemical concentrations. Raman scattering due to the (LO) phonon was observed at 211 cm–1. Optical absorption studies were performed with a double beam ultra violet‐visible –NIR spectrophotometer in the wavelength 300–1100 nm. The surface morphology of the layer was examined using a scanning electron micrograph. The composition of the films was studied using an Energy Dispersive Analysis by X‐Rays (EDAX).
New zeotype borophosphates with chiral tetrahedral topology: (H)0.5M1.25(H2O)1.5[BP2O8]·H2O (M = Co(II) and Mn(II))
Authors: Yilmaz A. , Tatar Yįldįrįm L. , Bu X. , Kizilyalli M. , Stucky G. D.
Published: April 2005

Two new isostructural open‐framework zeotype transition metal borophosphate compounds, (H)0.5M1.25(H2O)1.5[BP2O8]·H2O (M = Co(II) and Mn(II)) were synthesized by mild hydrothermal method. The structure of compounds were characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction which have ordered, alternating, vertex‐sharing BO4, PO4, and (MO4)OM(H2O)2 groups with hexagonal, P 61 2 2 (No 178) space group and unit cell parameters for Co a = 9.4960(6) Å, c = 15.6230(13) Å, for Mn a = 9.6547(12) Å, c = 15.791(3) Å, Z = 1 for both of them. TGA/DTA analysis, IR spectroscopy were used for characterization. Magnetic susceptibility measurements for both of the compound indicate strong antiferromagnetic interaction between metal centers. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of monovalent salts on morphology of calcium carbonate crystallized in Couette‐Taylor reactor
Authors: Jung Taesung , Kim Woo‐Sik , Choi Chang Kyun
Published: April 2005

Monovalent ionic additives, Na+, K+ and NH impact on the morphology and agglomeration of CaCO3 crystals. As increasing the additive concentration, the regular shaped crystals such as rhombohedron and spindle are changed to irregular one due to the inclusion of Na+ and K+ into the crystal structure. The inclusion of Na+ and K+ is detected using ICP‐AES. The partition of coefficients of Na+ and K+ are estimated as 9.74 × 10–4, 9.73×10–4, respectively and the amount of inclusion in the crystals is about 2×103 ppm. However, the inclusion of ions does not modify a crystal structure of calcite. Since NH4+ is large in radius, it is not included in crystal but shifts the spindle shape of crystal to the rhombohedral one. It is interesting to find that such modification of crystal morphology begins to appear at high additive concentration (0.05 M). In addition, the crystal agglomeration is promoted because the electric repulsive charge is reduced as increasing the additive concentration. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Auditing headaches? Relieve them with CAR
Authors: Singleton Tommie , Singleton Aaron J.
Published: April 2005

Over the past 30 years, both information systems and accounting have undergone radical changes. Standards and regulations have also become frustratingly complex. But there's a powerful remedy for today's auditing headaches: continuous auditing and reporting (CAR). The authors explain what CAR is and how to determine if it will help your company. They also profile several affordable CAR products. Low‐ cost “instant auditing” is now possible! © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SOX 404: How do you control your internal control?
Authors: Byington J. Ralph , Christensen Jo Ann
Published: April 2005

Section 404 of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act (SOX) makes most publicly traded companies report on the effectiveness of their internal controls. That can be a daunting task.But this article offers practical advice and valuable checklists that will make the job easier. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A practical guide to performance measurement
Authors: Miller John
Published: April 2005

In many organizations, the finance function is expected to set the overall direction and to provide guidance in developing and using all types of performance measures. This is not an easy task, because it's possible to measure just about everything. This article provides some practical ideas about performance measurements, including measures of financial performance, operational performance, customer satisfaction, and product or service performance. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinetic properties of nuclear transport conferred by the retinoblastoma (Rb) NLS
Authors: Hu Wei , Kemp Bruce E. , Jans David A.
Published: April 2005

The retinoblastoma (RB) tumor suppressor is a nuclear phosphoprotein central to control of cellular proliferation. We have previously shown that human RB possesses an evolutionarily conserved bipartite nuclear localization sequence (NLS) (KRSAEGSNPPKPLKKLR877) resembling that of nucleoplasmin. Here we analyze the kinetic properties of the RB NLS in detail with respect to recognition by cellular nuclear import factors, the importins (IMPs), and nuclear transport properties, comparing results to those for the NLSs from SV40 large tumor antigen (T‐ag) and the Xenopus laevis phosphoprotein N1N2. Binding affinities of different IMPα subunits for the Rb NLS, in the absence or presence of IMPβ subunits were determined, and NLS‐dependent nuclear import reconstituted in vitro for the first time using purified IMPα/β subunits together with recombinant human RanGDP and nuclear transport factor 2 (NTF2). RB NLS‐mediated transport had a strict requirement for all components, with high NTF2 concentrations inhibiting transport. As in the case of transport mediated by the T‐ag‐ and N1N2‐NLSs, nuclear import of an RB‐NLS containing β‐Gal fusion protein was reduced or abolished when anti‐IMPα or β antibody was added to cytosolic extract, respectively, confirming that RB NLS‐mediated nuclear import occurs through action of IMPα/β. We conclude that although mediated by IMPα/β, and similar in most respects to transport mediated by the similarly bipartite N1N2 NLS, nuclear import conferred by the RB NLS has distinct properties, in part due to the affinity of its interaction with IMPα. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intracellular interaction of myosin light chain kinase with macrophage migration inhibition factor (MIF) in endothelium
Authors: Wadgaonkar Raj , Dudek Steven M. , Zaiman Ari L. , Linz‐McGillem Laura , Verin Alexander D. , Nurmukhambetova Saule , Romer Lewis H. , Garcia Joe G.N.
Published: April 2005

The endothelial cell Ca2+/calmodulin (CaM)‐dependent myosin light chain kinase isoform (EC MLCK) is a multifunctional contractile effector involved in vascular barrier regulation, leukocyte diapedesis, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. The EC MLCK isoform and its splice variants contain a unique N‐terminal sequence not present in the smooth muscle MLCK isoform (SM MLCK), which allows novel upregulation of MLCK activation by signaling cascades including p60src. The yeast two‐hybrid assay system using the entire EC MLCK1 N‐terminus (922 aa) as bait, identified additional stable MLCK binding partners including the 12 KDa macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). This finding was confirmed by cross immunoprecipitation assays under non‐denaturing conditions and by GST pull down experiments using GST‐N‐terminal MLCK (#1–923) and MLCK N‐terminal deletion mutants in TNFα‐ and thrombin‐stimulated endothelium. This EC MLCK–MIF interaction was shown biochemically and by immunofluorescent microscopy to be enhanced in TNFα‐ and thrombin‐stimulated endothelium, both of which induce increased MLCK activity. Thrombin induced the colocalization of an epitope‐tagged, full‐length MIF fusion protein with phosphorylated MLC along peripheral actin stress fibers. Together these studies suggest that the novel interaction between MIF and MLCK may have important implications for the regulation of both non‐muscle cytoskeletal dynamics as well as pathobiologic vascular events that involve MLCK. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Zinc finger protein overexpressed in colon carcinoma interacts with the telomeric protein hRap1
Authors: Antoine Karène , Ferbus Didier , Kolahgar Golnar , Prospéri Marie‐Thérèse , Goubin Gérard
Published: April 2005

The OZF (ZNF146) protein is a 33 kDa Kruppel protein, composed solely of 10 zinc finger motifs. It is overexpressed in the majority of pancreatic cancers and in more than 80% of colorectal cancers. We found an interaction between OZF and the telomeric hRap1 protein with a yeast two‐hybrid screen. hRap1 (TERF2IP) is an ortholog of the yeast telomeric protein, scRap1 originally identified as a regulator of telomere length. In HeLa cells, it interacts with TRF2, a telomere repeat binding factor whose inactivation causes a dysregulation of telomere length and structure. Immunoprecipitation with anti‐hRap1 antibodies in conditions that allow the purification of proteins associated with hRap1, demonstrated that OZF binds to hRap1 in HeLa cells. Using deletion mutants, we mapped the interacting domain of each protein. The three zinc fingers at the C‐terminus of OZF interact with a region of hRap1 located downstream of the coil domain. It involves a stretch of at least 25 amino acids at the C‐terminus of hRap1 that interact with TRF2. This suggests that OZF overexpression in tumours may alter the balance between hRap1 and other telomeric proteins and therefore that OZF function may be linked to telomere regulation. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Paraspermatogenesis of Cerithioidean snails: Retention of an acrosome and nuclear remnant
Authors: Buckland‐Nicks John , Hodgson Alan N.
Published: April 2005

Paraspermatozoa of Cerithioidea are oligopyrenic with a central nuclear remnant surrounded by glycoprotein bodies and an anterior acrosome complex. Posteriorly, the parasperm have one long and several small flagella. Biosynthesis of proteins begins in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER), early in paraspermatogenesis, prior to the degradation of the nucleus. The breakdown of the nucleus has features characteristic of apoptosis but a nuclear remnant remains that is composed of intact DNA. The acrosome complex of parasperm is Golgi‐derived, forming posteriorly and migrating anteriorly along the plasma membrane to the apex of the nuclear remnant as the paraspermatid matures. This mechanism of acrosome formation is similar to that in euspermiogenesis in neomenioid aplacophorans and neritid snails and is plesiomorphic to mollusks. However, eusperm acrosomes of Cerithioidea form differently. In the paraspermatid, small, dense granules secreted by the Golgi body fuse to form larger granular vesicles, many of which are released by exocytosis into the seminal fluid. These granular vesicles stain red with acridine orange at pH 7 under 489‐nm light, indicating that they are lysosomes. The retention of a nuclear remnant and development of an acrosome complex in the parasperm of cerithioideans, as well as the secretion of lysosomes into the seminal fluid, suggests novel functions for these unusual germ cells. J. Morphol. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of foregut and proboscis in the buccinid neogastropod Nassarius mendicus: Evolutionary opportunity exploited by a developmental module
Authors: Page Louise R.
Published: April 2005

This article extends previous descriptions of foregut development and metamorphosis in neogastropods by providing data on the buccinid Nassarius mendicus, a species with a feeding larva. Histological sections showed that, like many other gastropods, the postmetamorphic buccal cavity and radular sac of N. mendicus differentiate during the larval stage from a ventral outpocketing of the distal larval esophagus. However, in N. mendicus the outpocketing also gives rise to the entire anterior esophagus and valve of Leiblein, suggesting that both these structures may be evolutionary derivatives of the gastropod buccal cavity. Scanning electron microscopy and three‐dimensional reconstructions of section profiles revealed that the distal larval esophagus and larval mouth are completely destroyed at metamorphosis. The postmetamorphic mouth is formed as a new orifice. Furthermore, epithelia covering the proboscis and proboscis sac arise from preexisting epidermal epithelium of the larval head, an interpretation that contradicts an earlier suggestion on the origin of these epithelial elements in neogastropods with a feeding larval stage. These results, when compared to foregut development in other gastropods, lead me to propose that the gastropod buccal cavity and buccal mass is a developmental module. Canalized development of this module may have been important to the “evolvability” of the complex gastropod foregut, because it allowed a silent developmental novelty to arise (secondary formation of the postmetamorphic mouth) without disrupting development of the whole module. Nevertheless, this silent novelty might have subsequently facilitated dramatic evolutionary change by allowing the elaborate foregut structure of predatory, postmetamorphic neogastropods to arise in late stage larvae without compromising larval feeding. J. Morphol. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Balancing act: Finding equilibrium between work and life
Authors: Gurvis Joan , Patterson Gordon
Published: April 2005

Balance isn't an issue of time but of choice. It's about living your values by aligning your behavior with what you believe is really important. Achieving such alignment is much like any other developmental experience: the basic process involves assessment, challenge, and support.
Preclinical experiment of auxiliary partial orthotopic liver transplantation as a curative treatment for hemophilia
Authors: Ko Saiho , Tanaka Ichiro , Kanehiro Hiromichi , Kanokogi Hideki , Ori Jun-ichi , Shima Midori , Yoshioka Akira , Giles Alan , Nakajima Yoshiyuki
Published: April 2005

The cause of hemophilia is deficiency of coagulation factor VIII production in the liver, which can be cured by liver transplantation. Because the hepatic function of hemophilia patients is quite normal except for production of factor VIII, auxiliary partial orthotopic liver transplantation (APOLT) is beneficial in that patient survival is secured by preserving native liver even in the event of graft loss. However, it is not known whether the graft of APOLT would be enough to cure hemophilia. We evaluated the efficacy and feasibility of APOLT for hemophilia in a canine hemophilia A model that we established. Partial left liver graft was taken from the normal donor (blood factor VIII activity > 60%). The graft was transplanted to the hemophilia beagle dog (blood factor VIII activity < 5%) after resection of the left lobe preserving native right lobe. Changes in time of blood factor VIII activity and liver function parameters were observed after APOLT. APOLT and perioperative hemostatic management were successfully performed. The blood factor VIII activity increased to 30% after APOLT, and was sustained at least 6 weeks throughout the observation period without symptoms of bleeding. The result demonstrated sustained production of factor VIII in the hemophilia recipient after APOLT. Transplantation of approximately one third of whole liver resulted in cure of hemophilia. In conclusion, it is suggested that APOLT would be feasible as a curative treatment of hemophilia A to improve quality of life of the patients. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:579–584.)
Prophylaxis of hepatitis B virus recurrence after liver transplantation in carriers of lamivudine-resistant mutants
Authors: Marzano Alfredo , Lampertico Pietro , Mazzaferro Vincenzo , Carenzi Silvia , Vigano Mauro , Romito Raffaele , Pulvirenti Andrea , Franchello Alessandro , Colombo Massimo , Salizzoni Mauro , Rizzetto Mario
Published: April 2005

The combination of lamivudine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) reduces the risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) recurrence after liver transplantation (LT). However, the efficacy of this strategy and the need for combined therapy with adefovir dipivoxil (ADV) in patients who select lamivudine-resistant strains (YMDD) before surgery is still unknown. Twenty-two patients treated with lamivudine (LAM) who underwent LT after YMDD-mutant selection were studied. In 13 patients, YMDD mutants were associated with an HBV DNA breakthrough greater than 5 log10 (group A: phenotypic resistance), and 11 were treated with ADV to decrease viral load before LT. In the remaining 9 patients who did not experience the viral breakthrough, YMDD mutants were detected only retrospectively in sera stored at the time of LT (group B: genotypic resistance). During 35 months of post-LT follow-up, none of the 11 patients of group A treated with ADV before and after surgery (in addition to HBIG and LAM) had HBV recurrence, and neither did any of the 7 subjects of group B treated with LAM before and after transplantation (in addition to HBIG). HBV recurred in 2 patients of group A (untreated with ADV before surgery and transplanted with an HBV DNA exceeding 5 log10) and in 2 subjects of group B (who spontaneously stopped HBIG after surgery). In carriers of YMDD mutants, the risk of post-LT HBV recurrence is low, provided that preemptive and prophylactic ADV (in addition to LAM and HBIG) treatment is used in highly viremic patients and prophylactic LAM (or ADV) and HBIG therapy is continued in low viremic patients. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:532–538.)
Intragraft expression of recipient-type ABO blood group antigens: Long-term follow-up and histological features after liver transplantation
Authors: Tanaka Yuichi , Haga Hironori , Egawa Hiroto , Okuno Tomoko , Miyagawa-Hayashino Aya , Tsuruyama Tatsuaki , Kambe Michiyo , Marusawa Hiroyuki , Chiba Tsutomu , Manabe Toshiaki
Published: April 2005

Several reports have shown detection of recipient-type ABO histo-blood group antigens (r-ABOAg) in the liver allograft, which may represent either true intragraft chimerism or other events such as cell injury. Little is known about factors that affect the timing and extent of r-ABOAg expression in the graft. We examined 65 recipients who underwent ABO nonidentical living donor liver transplantation (61 compatible, 4 incompatible). Ninety-seven postoperative specimens (71 episode biopsies, 16 protocol biopsies, and 10 explanted allografts) were available for evaluation with immunohistochemistry of ABH blood type antigens. The expression of r-ABOAg was assessed in relation to histological and clinical factors. Capillaries in the portal tracts were the primary sites of r-ABOAg expression. The percentage of specimens showing r-ABOAg expression increased with lengthening of the post-transplantation period. Only 1 (4%) of 28 specimens showed endothelium with r-ABOAg within 1 year after the procedure, but 10 (29%) of 35 did between 1 and 5 years after transplantation and 21 (62%) of 34 after more than 5 years. Proportional analysis found that chronic rejection was a significant factor (

P

= 0.006) for any r-ABOAg expression in the capillaries, and allograft portal fibrosis was a significant predictive factor for extensive r-ABOAg expression (seen in more than one third of the portal tracts) in the capillaries (

P

= 0.017). Sex mismatch, age of recipients, age of donors, graft/recipient body weight ratio, and histology other than chronic rejection and fibrosis did not correlate with the expression of r-ABOAg. In conclusion, these observations suggest that portal capillaries with r-ABOAg are the results of graft injury and repair, and some of them may be neovessels of recipient origin. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:547–554.)
Thermal Initiation of MMA in High Temperature Radical Polymerizations
Authors: Nising Philip , Meyer Thierry , Carloff Rüdiger , Wicker Michael
Published: April 2005

Summary: Several researches have dealt with the thermal initiation of methyl methacrylate (MMA) in the past. Some of them already discussed the presence of peroxide containing species that are formed from dissolved oxygen and the monomer itself as main reason for this initiation. However, a more detailed investigation as well as a kinetic description of this phenomenon is still due in literature. In this paper, the formation and decomposition of methyl methacrylate peroxides are described. MMA that has been in contact with air forms macromolecular peroxides at temperatures below 100 °C from physically dissolved oxygen. These peroxides have molecular weights of approximately 3 000–5 000 g · mol−1, depending on the temperature during formation. Above this temperature, these peroxides decompose quickly and initiate the radical polymerization. Depending on the reaction conditions, monomer conversions from 15 to 30% are obtained. In combination with additional initiators, the MMA peroxides provoke an acceleration of the reaction rate and can also lead to bimodal molecular weight distributions. An analytical method based on UV‐spectrophotometry was developed for the quantification of the peroxide content in the monomer. The kinetic rate constants for the formation were determined in batch experiments with purified, air‐saturated monomer to be kf,0 = 6.28 · 107 l2 · mol−2 · s and EA = 7.75 · 104 J · mol−1. The decomposition rate constants were determined from batch dead‐end polymerizations and found to be kd,0 = 4.73 · 107 l · mol−1 · s−1 and EA = 8.56 · 104 J · mol−1.

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Comparison of the effects of a self‐supervised home exercise program with a physiotherapist‐supervised exercise program on the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lun Victor , Pullan Nancy , Labelle Nancy , Adams Corey , Suchowersky Oksana
Published: April 2005

The effects of a self‐supervised home exercise program and a physiotherapist‐supervised exercise program on motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients were compared in a prospective single‐blinded clinical trial. Nineteen subjects (6 women, 13 men; mean age, 65 ± 8 years) with Hoehn and Yahr Stages 2 to 3 were recruited. Subjects were self‐selected into an 8‐week exercise program that was self‐supervised (HOME group) or physiotherapist‐supervised (PT group). The primary outcome measurement was the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Motor subsection score (UPDRSm). The secondary outcome measurements were the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, UPDRS Total score, and the Activities‐specific Balance Confidence Scale. All outcomes were assessed at baseline and at 8 and 16 weeks after the start of the study. The investigators were blinded to the subject treatment group. Bonferroni‐corrected paired Student's t test was used to evaluate the change in the UPDRSm from baseline to 8 weeks. Ninety‐five percent confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for the change in the secondary outcome measurements from baseline to 8 weeks. There was statistically significant and equal decrease in the UPDRSm from baseline to 8 weeks in both treatment groups. There was no difference in the 95% CI in the change of the secondary outcome measurements. A self‐supervised exercise program was found to have similar effectiveness as a physiotherapist‐supervised exercise program in improving motor symptoms in PD patients. This finding is important in the counseling of PD patients regarding adjunctive treatment of motor symptoms of PD with exercise. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
A spatially curved‐beam element with warping and Wagner effects
Authors: Pi Yong‐Lin , Bradford Mark Andrew , Uy Brian
Published: April 2005

This paper presents a new spatially curved‐beam element with warping and Wagner effects that can be used for the non‐linear large displacement analysis of members that are curved in space. The non‐linear behaviour of members curved in space shows that the Wagner effects are substantial in the large twist rotation analysis. Most existing finite beam element models, such as ABAQUS and ANSYS cannot predict the non‐linear large displacement response of members curved in space correctly because the Wagner effects, viz. the Wagner moment and the corresponding finite strain terms, have not been considered in these finite beam elements. As a consequence, these finite beam elements do not provide correct predictions for the out‐of‐plane buckling and postbuckling behaviour of arches as well. In this paper, the symmetric tangent stiffness matrix has been derived based on the finite rotations parameterized by the conventional displacements. The warping and Wagner effects: both the Wagner moment and the corresponding finite strain terms and their constitutive relationship, are included in the spatially curved‐beam element. Two components of the initial curvature, the initial twist and their interactions with the displacements are also considered in the spatially curved‐beam element. This ensures that the large twist rotation analysis for the members curved in space is accurate. Comparisons with existing experimental, analytical and numerical results show that the spatially curved‐beam element is accurate and efficient for the non‐linear elastic analysis of curved members, buckling and postbuckling analysis of arches, and in its ability to predict large deflections and twist rotations in more arbitrarily curved members. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Benchmarking tax systems
Authors: Gallagher Mark
Published: April 2005

International institutions, such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the U.S. Agency for International Development, have been assessing tax system performance and capabilities for decades without having a solid international comparator basis for undertaking these assessments. This article provides a series of indicators and benchmarks that can help to put such assessments into an international perspective, set specific targets for performance, reform and modernisation, and monitor progress over time. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.