bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The development and validation of a stability indicating Rp-UPLC method for the simultaneous estimation of clarithromycin, amoxicillin, and vonoprazan in a physical mixture
Authors: Salva Charumathi , Galla Rajitha
Published: April 2024

A novel technique was developed for simultaneous quantification of clarithromycin (CLA) amoxicillin (AMO), and vonoprazan (VON) in a mixture using the reverse phase ultra-performance liquid chromatography (RP-UPLC) technique and validated as per International Council for Harmonization (ICH) guidelines as there was no literature published for its estimation by UPLC. The method was developed using an acquity UPLC system from waters corporation with Hibar Bis phosphonate C18 column (100 × 2.1 mm, 2 μm) at 35°C and tunable ultra-violet detector (TUV) with detection wavelength at 210 nm, has a run time of below 3 minutes. The mobile phase proportion of 60:40 of 0.1 N monobasic potassium phosphate buffer (pH 3.8) and acetonitrile at a flow velocity of 0.2 ml/ minute was utilized. Linearity was observed for CLA, AMO, and VON between the concentration ranges of 25–150, 25–150, and 1–6 μg/ml, respectively, and R2 was 0.999 for CLA, AMO, and VON. Accuracy and precision were within 2% of the coefficient of variation (RSD) for all drugs. The observed mean percentage recoveries for the CLA, AMO, and VON were determined to be 99.74%, 99.07%, and 99.8%, respectively. The stability of the approach was assessed using degradation studies by exposing it to acid, alkali, oxidizing agent, heat, Ultra Violet (UV) light, and water as per ICH guidelines.
Stereochemical assignment of varicosenone, a merosteroid flexible side chain, from the Indonesian sea slug Phyllidia varicosa using NMR and DFT-based NMR calculations
Authors: Hanif Novriyandi , Nuraulia Berlian Safriana , Ohlinger William Sean , Tyas Trianda Ayuning , Yanti Henny Dwi , Dinelsa Fabians Faisal , Tohir Dudi , Setiawan Andi , Murni Anggia , Tanaka Junichi
Published: April 2024

A merosteroid with a flexible side chain named varicosenone (1a) was isolated from the sea slug Phyllidia varicosa collected from Banten, Jakarta, and South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The structure of 1a was elucidated using 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS) as well as density functional theory (DFT)--based NMR calculations. The relative configuration for the rigid portion (cyclic portion) was evidenced by nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY) correlation, while the two-chiral centres on the flexible side chain were assessed by statistical comparison (including mean and max absolute, RMS error, and DP4 score) of experimental 13C chemical shifts with the results of the Boltzmann-weighted 13C chemical shifts calculated for each of the four potential stereoisomers. The result suggested a preference for two of the four possible stereoisomers (18R*, 21S*) and (18S*, 21S*). A similar analysis, accounting for the full set of 13C chemical shifts for the system, and only 1H shifts for the flexible side chain of DP4 for 13C and 1H chemical shifts of the portion favour (18R*, 21S*) stereoisomer. Therefore, 1a may have a relative configuration as 8S*, 9S*, 10R*, 13R*, 14S*, 17R*, 18R*, 21S*.
Anti-proliferative activity and apoptotic induction of tannins extracted from Quercus infectoria on oral cancer KB cell lines
Authors: Ahmad Fazil , Surapaneni Krishna Mohan , Kamaraj Balu , Kamaraj Balu
Published: April 2024

The present study aimed to evaluate the phytochemicals in Quercus infectoria ethanolic extract and to test the cytotoxic effect on an oral cancer cell line KERATIN-HeLa cells (KB cells). The cytotoxic potential of tannins extracted from Q. infectoria was tested by cell cycle analysis, transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta expression, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) by fluorescent activated cell sorte, Caspase 3, and Caspase 9 expression by ELISA in KB cell lines treated with the extract. Specific protein (Bcl-2) and the gene expression in the KB cell line upon tannin treatment were detected by western blot and RT-PCR technique. The Caspase 3 and 9 enzymatic activity was carried out using the ELISA method. Virtual screening and molecular docking analysis were conducted to know the binding affinity against the targets matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), NF-kB, and RhoA, which are targets of oral cancer cells. Preliminary screening of Q. infectoria indicates it primarily contains tannins and glycosides. The IC50 value of the ethanolic extract was determined to be 76.82 μg/ml. Analysis of the cell cycle revealed that the extract induced dose-dependent arrest in the G0/G1 phase. It is also revealed that KB cell treatment with the extract led to downregulation of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. Moreover, TGF beta expression was downregulated, and Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 were up-regulated in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the extract induced mitochondrial membrane potential and MMP induction. Virtual screening and molecular docking revealed that tannins have a favorable binding affinity against MMP-2, NF-kB p65, and RhoA. The study identified that “6-O-digalloyl-1,2,3,4 tetra-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose,” a gallotannin in Q. infectoria, is responsible for the anti-cancer activity. The results of our study found that Q. infectoria extracts have anti-proliferative and apoptotic induction activity, which can help in novel drug discovery and development to alleviate cancer.
Características epistemológicas da produção científica na linha de pesquisa contabilidade financeira
Authors: Costa Renata Souza da , Farias Kelly Teixeira Rodrigues , Farias Manoel Raimundo Santana
Published: April 2024

O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar a produção científica da linha de pesquisa de Contabilidade Financeira nos periódicos com maior classificação no Qualis, e, para tanto, foram investigados 325 artigos publicados de 2010 a 2014 em revistas classificadas como A2 e B1. A coleta de dados foi realizada por um formulário utilizado por Costa e Farias (2015) que relaciona as variáveis investigadas (autoria, objeto de estudo, problema, teoria, hipóteses, método e resultados) com o ciclo de pesquisa de (BUNGE, 1998), buscando identificar se os artigos atendem a lógica do método científico, que consiste em implementar um problema que possa ser testado e validado empiricamente, para então, gerar novos conhecimentos científicos. Notou-se que a linha de Contabilidade Financeira estava em ascensão, sendo responsável por mais da metade dos artigos publicados, além de discutir temas que estavam em consonância com os discutidos internacionalmente. Realizou-se uma análise documental e bibliométrica dos artigos, constatando que: as pesquisas desenvolvidas na linha de pesquisa ainda eram prioritariamente descritivas; a maioria dos artigos que desenvolve hipótese não se fundamenta em teorias; e, parte dos artigos desenhou modelo empírico para testar suas hipóteses, enquanto apenas uma minoria se preocupou com a validação dos resultados obtidos com a realização dos testes. Por fim, quanto ao ciclo de pesquisa, pôde-se concluir que são poucos os artigos publicados em contabilidade financeira que completam o ciclo, evidenciando que a produção científica da linha ainda não atinge o estágio avançado da pesquisa.
Evaluation of Induced Sputum against Gastric Juice Aspirate in the Diagnosis of Tuberculosis in Children: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Fenn Baker Ninan , Michael Joy S , Samuel Prasanna , Christopher DJ , Verghese Valsan Philip , Chacko Anila , Ghosh Urmi , Rose Winsley
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Diagnosing Tuberculosis (TB) in children is difficult as they do not expectorate sputum on their own, and the sample is usually paucibacillary. Hence, alternative sampling methods like Gastric juice Aspiration (GA), which is the widely accepted method, and Induced Sputum (IS) collection, a more novel approach, are used. The IS method has several advantages, such as being less invasive, not requiring inpatient admission, causing less discomfort, and not necessitating overnight fasting, compared to the GA method. Aim: To evaluate IS against GA for diagnosing TB using XpertMTB/ RIF assay, as well as mycobacterial culture, in children aged between 2 and 15 years. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Paediatrics at Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India from June 2019 to March 2020, involving 138 children aged between 2 and 15 years who were being evaluated for TB. GA samples were collected after an overnight fast, and on the same day, atleast two hours later, IS samples were collected by trained staff. Both samples underwent mycobacterial smear and culture using the Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) method and Xpert MTB/RIF assay. Confirmation of pulmonary TB was based on atleast one of these tests being positive. The ‘Wong-Baker’ Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was individually administered to each patient to compare the discomfort associated with GA and IS procedures. The differences in yield between IS and GA were tested for significance using the Two-sample test of proportions with a significance level set at 5%. McNemar's χ2 test was employed to compare matched observations. The MannWhitney test was used for comparing continuous variables, and the Chi-Square test for categorical variables. Cohen’s Kappa (κ) was used to assess interobserver agreement between the sampling methods using the different tests. Results: Out of the 138 cases recruited with suspected pulmonary TB, the diagnosis was microbiologically confirmed in 13 cases (9.4%). The overall diagnostic yield was 12/138 (8.7%) for GA and 10/138 (7.2%) for IS. In children under 10 years, GA outperformed IS with all three cases being positive by GA and none by IS. For those aged 10 years and above, 10 children (100%) tested positive with IS, while nine children (90%) were positive with GA. According to the Wong-Baker VAS measuring discomfort during the procedure, IS was favoured over GA (p-value<0.0001). Conclusion: IS performs similarly or better than GA in children over 10 years, while GA performs better than IS in children under 10 years of age. IS is reported to cause less discomfort than GA on the Wong-Baker VAS.
A Case Report of Periodontal Regeneration in Failing Tooth by Single Flap Approach Using Sticky Bone and Platelet-rich Fibrin Membrane
Authors: Alanija Lekha , Selvaraj Raaja Sreepathy Chandran , Rathinasamy Kadhiresan , Ulaganathan Arunmozhi , Praveen Arockiya Antony
Published: April 2024

Periodontal regeneration aims to regenerate the diseased or lost periodontium. Regenerative periodontal therapy utilises growth factors, autogenous soft and hard tissue grafts for the purpose of regeneration. Platelet-rich Fibrin (PRF) is an autologous biomaterial which works on the principle of centrifugation. The injectable PRF (i-PRF) that is formed when centrifuged at low Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) produces an excellent matrix when mixed with bone graft called “sticky bone”. Sticky bone possesses the property of mouldability along with its inherent potential of bone formation. The PRF matrix also enhances the wound healing through the release of various growth factors. PRF membranes which are obtained at higher centrifugation levels also act as a substitute to augment the soft-tissues. The present case is that of a 45-year-old male, who underwent a one-year follow-up for the management of endodontic periodontal lesion in the lower left first molar with sticky bone and PRF membrane by single flap approach. The patient was periodically reviewed clinically and radiographically and prosthetic restoration was given on accessing the radiographic bone fill after six months. After six months there was a significant difference in the radiographic bone fill, along with the reduction in the probing pocket depth from 7 mm to 4 mm and clinical attachment from 9 mm to 7 mm. The results indicate that sticky bone and PRF membrane serves as a predictable source for the management of intrabony defects.
Composition, Density and Diversity of Phytoplankton in Rathi Cheruvu, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Telangana, India
Authors: Rajyalaxmi K. , Aruna M.
Published: April 2024

The current study deals with composition, density and diversity of phytoplankton during January 2023 to December 2023 monthly in the Rathi cheruvu, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Telangana, India. Samplings were collected from different locations of the study site during a one year research period. Several physico-chemical parameters were studied from two sampling stations such as water temperature, pH, DO, BOD, SO4, NO3, PO4 and Cl-, of which pH, DO and BOD were shown to be the most significant in growth and development of phytoplanton. In the current study revealed a total number of 43 species of phytoplankton belonging to four major classes i.e. Chlorophyceae with 16 species, Bacillariophyceae with 14 species, Euglenophyceae with three species and Cyanophyceae with 10 species. The maximum population of phytoplankton diversity was observed during summer followed by monsoon with a total 1058 phytoplankton species during one year of study period. Finally the study showed that the study site has a well balanced phytoplankton community.
Assessment of Financial Literacy of Public Schools Teachers: Generation X, Y and Z
Authors: Catacutan Ryan V. , Moleño Roleen B.
Published: April 2024

Financial literacy is an important social skill, especially among teachers who play an important role in shaping the educational environment. This study focuses on three specific generations of teachers, Generation X, Generation Y (Millennials), and Generation Z (iGen), and aims to assess their financial literacy levels. The primary goal is to identify differences in financial literacy by generation by examining conceptual knowledge, financial behavior, and financial attitudes and awareness. A descriptive - comparative research design was used to survey teachers in the Department of Education – School Division Office of Cotabato. The sample consisted of teachers from Generation X, Generation Y and Generation Z. Quota - convenience sampling was used to collect a sample of 150 respondents, with a default quota of 50 respondents from each generation. The study used statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA to identify differences in financial literacy levels across generations. The findings revealed that all three generations exhibit high levels of financial literacy across dimensions of conceptual knowledge, financial behavior, and financial attitudes and awareness. However, there were statistically significant differences between Generations Y and Generation Z in terms of financial attitudes and awareness, while no significant differences were found in Generation X and Y or Generation X and Z. In conclusion, teachers in the Department of Education – School Division Office of Cotabato independently showcase commendable financial literacy across generations.
Analysis of Norm-Attainability and Convergence Properties of Orthogonal Polynomials in Weighted Sobolev Spaces
Authors: Evans Mogoi N. , Wanjara Amos Otieno , Apima Samuel B.
Published: April 2024

This paper explores norm-attainability of orthogonal polynomials in Sobolev spaces, investigating properties like existence, uniqueness, and convergence. It establishes the convergence of these polynomials in Sobolev spaces, addressing orthogonality preservation and derivative behaviors. Spectral properties, including Sturm-Liouville eigenvalue problems, are analyzed, enhancing the understanding of these polynomials. The study incorporates fundamental concepts like reproducing kernels, Riesz representations, and Bessel’s inequality. Results contribute to the theoretical understanding of orthogonal polynomials, with potential applications in diverse mathematical and computational contexts.
Public Health Implications of Cholera- a Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Related Infectious Disease in the Era of Climate Change: The Nigeria Experience
Authors: Ihua Nnenna , Amadi-Wali Owhorchukwu , Onosakponome Evelyn Orevaoghene , Ndukwu. Chidi L.C. , Ikpeama Roseanne Adah , Okorocha Cyrilgentle Ugochukwu
Published: April 2024

Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) play key roles in management of infectious diseases like cholera and other waterborne diseases; given that millions of people globally have no access to safe water. This cross-sectional study, conducted in 7 communities of Ogoni region (Khana, Gokana, Tai and Eleme LGAs), Orashi region (Abua/Odual, Ahoada West, Ahoada East and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni LGAs) and Obolo region (Andoni LGA) all in Rivers State, Nigeria, enrolled 274 inhabitants comprising 164 females and 110 males. These included persons passing watery stools accompanied with vomiting, abdominal cramps and those with such prehistory. Questionnaires were used to obtain socio-demographic data. A total of 274 faecal samples were collected and transported in Cary-Blair stool culture transport medium to Rivers State University Teaching Hospital laboratory; and inoculated on Thiosulphate sulphate citrate bile salt-sucrose agar. Gram staining and biochemical tests were performed using standard procedures. Among the 274 subjects, 40 were infected giving a prevalence rate of 14.6%, including 26(15.9%) females and 14(12.7%) males though this was statistically insignificant, (U=8738.000, p=0.474). On educational levels, those who attended secondary schools had the highest prevalence rate (26.3%), compared with others and it was statistically significant, (p=0.00). WASH perceived predisposing factor showed the prevalence rate among those without access to safe water was 33(21.6%) against those with access to safe water 7(5.8%) and was statistically significant, (p=0.00). Subjects engaged in routine environmental sanitation and hygiene practices had lower prevalence 7(7.6%) than their counterparts, 33(18.1%), p=0.02. Respondents who think climate change had a positive impact on cholera transmission had prevalence of 34(23.3%) against those who disagreed, 6(4.7%), which was statistically significant. The study deduced that unavailability of safe drinking water, climate change, and unhygienic practices were major predisposing factors to cholera infection. Provision of safe water is advocated as greater percentage of the communities lacked access to safe drinking water. Routine environmental sanitation exercise should be revisited and enforced.
Role of Blockchain Technology in Enhancing Supplychain Traceability, Transparency and Efficiency
Authors: Doshi Sunanda , Jangir Sudhanshu , Gohil Prakashsinh
Published: April 2024

The conventional traceability system faces challenges such as centralized control, lack of transparency, unreliable data, and the frequent creation of information silos. To address these issues, this paper introduces a blockchain-based traceability system tailored for the storage and retrieval of product information in the agricultural supply chain. Utilizing blockchain's inherent properties of decentralization, immutability, and traceability, this system enhances the transparency and trustworthiness of traceability data.
Furthermore, the integration of blockchain technology with cryptography is suggested to enable the secure exchange of private information within the blockchain network. Additionally, we have developed a reputation-based smart contract system to motivate network participants to contribute traceability data actively. This approach aims to leverage blockchain's capabilities to overcome the limitations of traditional traceability systems in the agricultural sector.
This research paper explores the role of blockchain technology in enhancing supply chain transparency and efficiency, focused on food and agriculture sector. It underscores the growing consumer demand for authentic product and the challenges of maintaining transparency is increasingly becoming difficult in global and complex markets.
Findings reveal that blockchain has significant capabilities to increases transparency, traceability, and security, while potentially reducing costs and errors. However, the study also identifies challenges, such as technological complexities, scalability issues, regulatory uncertainties, and integration hurdles.
A strategic framework for adopting blockchain in retail supply chains is proposed, offering insights for practitioners and policy considerations. The paper also designs a novel traceability system for agricultural product supply chains, employing blockchain technology to address issues such as centralized management, opaque information, and data unreliability.
The study concludes that while blockchain technology presents significant opportunities for transforming supply chains, realizing its full potential necessitates careful strategizing and sector-wide collaboration. The research offers recommendations for practitioners and outlines directions for future research, highlighting that the successful application of blockchain hinges on organizational adjustments and meeting specific boundary conditions.
Middle Eastern and European mtDNA lineages characterize populations from eastern Crete
Authors: Martinez Laisel , Mirabal Sheyla , Luis Javier R. , Herrera Rene J.
Published: May 2008

Throughout centuries, the geographic location of the island of Crete has been one of the leading factors shaping the composition of its population. Invasions and commercial and cultural ties at various time periods with European, Middle Eastern, and North African civilizations have created a collage of genetic and/or cultural influences from each of these regions within the island. Previous Y‐chromosome diversity analyses uncovered pronounced differences in the frequency distribution of haplogroups from a mountain refugium and surrounding lowland populations of eastern Crete. In this study, the current geographic stratification of mtDNA haplotypes in eastern Crete was explored to elucidate potential sources of maternal gene flow. Our work includes a comparative characterization of two lowland collections from the Heraklion and Lasithi Prefectures in eastern Crete, as well as of an isolated mountain population from the Lasithi Plateau, all three previously examined using Y‐chromosome markers. In addition to the presence of European mtDNA haplogroups in all three collections, our analyses reveal a significant contribution of Middle Eastern and Central Asian genetic signatures in the island of Crete, and particularly in the two populations from the Lasithi region at the eastern‐most portion of the island. Close association between these Cretan groups and the Balkans can also be discerned, which in the case of the Lasithi Plateau corroborates previously uncovered Y‐chromosome affiliations with the same geographic region. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis, viscosity behavior, and interactions with a surfactant of some amphiphilic copolymers of diallyldimethylammonium chloride and diallyldodecyl‐ or diallyloctadecyl‐ammonium chloride
Authors: Ali Shaikh A. , El‐Shareef A. M. , Al‐Muallem H. A.
Published: May 2008

The copolymerization of hydrophobic monomers, diallyldodecyl‐ or diallyloctadecyl‐ammonium chloride, with hydrophilic monomer diallyldimethylammonium chloride in dimethyl sulfoxide using azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as the initiator afforded a series of water‐soluble cationic polyelectrolytes (CPE) containing various proportions (0–16 mol %) of the hydrophobes. A polymer concentration (C*HA) of 0.5 g/dL was required for the manifestation of hydrophobic associations in some of these copolymers containing the C18 pendents. This is a notable improvement over the C*HA values (ca. 15–17 g/dL) for the associating polymers having a ∼ C10 – C14 pendents. At a shear rate of 0.36 s−1 at 30°C, salt‐free water solutions of the CPEs (4 g/dL) containing 8 mol % of the C12 hydrophobes and 3.6, 7.6, 15.5 mol % of C18 hydrophobe have apparent viscosity values of 780, 6000, 956,000, and 1,100,000 cps, respectively. Considerable increase in the viscosity values of the CPE was observed in the presence of the surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The superior viscosity behavior for the polymers containing the C18 hydrophobe in comparison with C12 is attributed to the longer pendent‐length of the former hydrophobe, which can efficiently undergo association from a distance far enough that minimizes interchain repulsion between the like charges. The CPEs containing the hydrophobes were found to be a better inhibitor of the corrosion of mild steel in 1M HCl at 60°C. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2008
Structural and photophysical properties of novel dual fluorescent compounds, 1‐aryl‐substituted 6‐methoxy‐4‐quinolones
Authors: Hirano Junzo , Hamase Kenji , Akita Takeyuki , Zaitsu Kiyoshi
Published: May 2008

Dual fluorescent compounds are useful platforms for the development of ratiometric probes and sensors. We have developed a new series of dual fluorescent compounds, 1‐aryl‐substituted 6‐methoxy‐4‐quinolones, and investigated their structural and photophysical properties. The X‐ray crystallographic analysis and ab initio quantum chemical calculations revealed that the developed compounds exhibited 60–75° twisted structures. The dual fluorescence of the compounds were observed in polar solvents, and the ratiometric fluorescence responses to alterations in the acidity and temperature were obtained. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrogenerated chemiluminescence of ruthenium complex immobilized in a highly cross‐linked polymer and its analytical applications
Authors: Shen Lihua , Li Xiaoxia , Qi Honglan , Zhang Chengxiao
Published: May 2008

Electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) of a ruthenium complex polymer modified carbon paste electrode and its analytical applications were investigated. The ruthenium complex polymer was prepared using bis(2,2‐bipyridine) (4,4‐dicarboxy‐2,2‐bipyridine) ruthenium(II). The ECL behaviours of ruthenium complex polymer modified carbon paste electrode were investigated in the absence and presence of tripropylamine (TPA). The modified carbon paste electrode exhibited long‐term stability and fine reproducibility. The ECL intensity of the modified carbon paste electrode was linear with the concentration of TPA in the range 2.0 × 10–6–3.8 × 10–3 mol/L, with a detection limit (S:N = 3) of 6 × 10–7 mol/L. It was also found that raceanisodamine could enhance the ECL intensity of the modified electrode. The ECL intensity of the modified carbon paste electrode was linear with the concentration of raceanisodamine in the range 1.1 × 10–5–6.0 × 10–4 mol/L, with a detection limit (S:N = 3) of 6 × 10–6 mol/L. This work demonstrates that the entrapment of ruthenium complex in a highly cross‐linked polymer is a promising approach to construct an ECL modified electrode with long‐term stability and fine reproducibility. The modified electrode designed has a potential application in the ECL detector. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Teaching the toolkit
Authors: LeClair Elizabeth E.
Published: May 2008

A major finding of comparative genomics and developmental genetics is that metazoans share certain conserved, embryonically deployed signaling pathways that instruct cells as to their ultimate fate. Because the DNA encoding these pathways predates the evolutionary split of most animal groups, it should in principle be possible to clone representatives of such signaling pathways from almost any species, demonstrating their sequence conservation. Here I describe an 8‐week laboratory series that tests this prediction by attempting to clone multiple members of a known signaling pathway from a species where the targets are unknown. Beginning with the molecular components of a signaling pathway and publicly available sequence information from related taxa, students designed partially degenerate PCR primers to amplify the corresponding mRNA sequences from a “new” organism, in this case a turtle (Trachemys scripta). Using a single round of degenerate PCR and standard DNA cloning techniques, we were able to retrieve 6 out of 16 species‐specific homologs on the first attempt (∼40% success rate). To conclude the project, the novel sequences were submitted back into the original public database. The molecular methods of the lab can be adapted to any combination of pathway and organism, demonstrating the conserved components of cellular signaling in any biological process, from gastrulation to aging. The linked labs offer intensive research–based training in bioinformatics and molecular biology, while empirically demonstrating the ubiquity of the metazoan cell‐signaling toolkit.
A novel tool to facilitate the learning of buffering mechanism by undergraduate students of the biological area
Authors: Carvalho Eduardo O. , Nantes Iseli L.
Published: May 2008

In this study, the application and evaluation of a novel didactic tool (buffer kit) is described to make it easy for students in the biological area to overcome their conceptual deficiencies that render the learning of the buffering mechanism difficult. The buffer kit was constructed with double‐face EVA cards with a conjugated acid formula (H2CO3 or H2O or H3O+) printed on one face and the respective conjugated base formula (HCO or OH− or H2O) printed on the reverse face. The conjugated acid and base faces were exposed after adding extra H+ and OH− cards, representing the addition of strong acids and bases, respectively. The buffer kit was evaluated with regard to the efficiency of content comprehension and retention of the gain by challenging the students to answer four subjective questions one week after a regular teaching module about the buffering mechanism. For each evaluation round, the buffering mechanism was taught to the control student group without the support of the buffer kit and, to the test student group, an identical content was taught, however, supported by the buffer kit. The overall mean scores obtained by the students who accessed the buffer kit (5.0) were significantly higher (p < 0.01) than the mean score of the control group (3.0), and the buffer kit increased twofold the percentage of students who gave more than 50% right answers. The use of the buffer kit was highly effective in improving the understanding of undergraduate students of the biological area about the buffering mechanism and the application of the Henderson‐Hasselbalch equation.
The effect of access time on online quiz performance in large biology lecture courses
Authors: Metz Anneke M.
Published: May 2008

To better understand the dynamics of online student test taking, including the likelihood of cheating by large numbers of students, we examined test‐taking patterns and outcomes of weekly online quizzes in two large undergraduate biology lecture courses. Students taking a quiz late in a 1–3‐day quiz access period performed 10–15% worse on quizzes than the students who completed the quiz early. Quiz access time was also negatively correlated with performance in other course components and course grades. These patterns suggest that academic dishonesty was not a determinant in unsupervised online quiz performance. Students generally completed quizzes in late afternoon or evening hours, but students who completed quizzes between midnight and 8 a.m. had significantly lower quiz grades than their peers. In addition, upper‐division students were more likely to characterize weekly online quizzes as more helpful for their learning than the lower‐division students.
Calcium and signal transduction
Authors: Fedrizzi Laura , Lim Dmitry , Carafoli Ernesto
Published: May 2008

Cell signaling is an essential process in which a variety of external signals, defined as first messengers, are translated inside the cells into specific responses, which are mediated by a less numerous group of second messengers. The exchange of signals became a necessity when the transition from monocellular to pluricellular life brought with it the division of labor among the cells of the organisms: unicellular organisms do not depend on the mutual exchange of signals, as they essentially only compete with each other for nutrients. Calcium (Ca2+) was selected during evolution as second messenger, because its chemistry made it a much more flexible ligand than the other abundant cations in the primordial environment (Na+, K+, Mg2+). Ca2+ can accept binding sites of irregular geometries and is thus ideally suited to be a carrier of biological information. The Ca2+ signal has properties that set it apart from those of all other biological messengers: they will be reviewed in this contribution. Among them, the ambivalent character of the Ca2+ signal is the most important: while essential to the viability of the cells, it can also easily become a conveyor of doom.
Impact of platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitors on outcomes of diabetic patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions using sirolimus‐eluting stents
Authors: Nikolsky Eugenia , Holmes David R. , Mehran Roxana , Dangas George , Schampaert Erick , Morice Marie‐Claude , Schofer Joachim , Sousa J. Eduardo , Fahy Martin , Na Yingbo , Donohoe Dennis J. , Moses Jeffrey W. , Leon Martin B.
Published: May 2008

Objective:

We assessed the outcomes in diabetic patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using sirolimus‐eluting stents (SES) as a function of treatment with glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa inhibitors.

Methods and Results:

Of 551 diabetic patients treated with a SES in nine trials (RAVEL, SIRIUS, E‐SIRIUS, C‐SIRIUS, REALITY, SVELTE, DIRECT, SIRIUS 2.25, and SIRIUS 4.0), 187 patients (33.9%) were administered GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors during PCI. GP IIb/IIIa blockade was associated with lower rates of myocardial infarction (MI) at 30 days (1.1% vs. 3.3%, P = 0.12) and at 1 year (1.1% vs. 4.7%, P = 0.04), and composite endpoint of cardiac death/MI at 1 year (2.2% vs. 6.2%, P = 0.05). Benefit from GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors was confined to 128 insulin‐treated diabetics who had remarkable reduction in MI (0.0% vs. 6.3%, P = 0.04) and cardiac death/MI at 30 days (0.0% vs. 7.6%, P = 0.05) and at 1‐year (0.0% vs. 13.4%, P = 0.01 and 0.0% vs. 15.7%, P = 0.0005, respectively). When treated with GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors, insulin‐requiring diabetics had similar rates of 1‐year death/MI when compared with the nondiabetic patients (0% vs. 4.7%, P = 0.13, respectively). There were no significant differences in outcomes as a function of GP IIb/IIIa blockade in diabetics not treated with insulin.

Conclusion:

In this analysis, outcomes of insulin requiring diabetic patients undergoing PCI with SES were considerably improved with adjunctive GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors by decreasing the rates of MI and composite endpoint of cardiac death/MI. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma: A retrospective immunophenotypic analysis
Authors: Kost Christine B. , Holden Jeannine T. , Mann Karen P.
Published: May 2008

Background:

Marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma (MZL) comprises three related yet biologically distinct subtypes—splenic MZL (SMZL), nodal MZL (NMZL), and extranodal MZL of MALT type (MALT). In cases without adequate morphology, immunophenotypic characterization by flow cytometric immunophenotyping (FCI) relies heavily on exclusion of other low‐grade lymphomas. We performed a retrospective review of FCI studies of MZL to search for immunophenotypes specific for MZL and its subtypes. We compared these to follicular lymphoma (FL) as we were specifically interested in differentiating MZL from CD10 negative FL.

Design:

FCI findings for MZL and FL cases were reviewed. Statistical analysis of patterns and intensity of antigen expression [mean channel fluorescence (MCF)] were performed.

Results:

Thirty‐one cases of MZL (7 SMZL, 6 NMZL, 15 MALT, 3 MZL not otherwise specified) and 31 cases of FL were identified. All expressed CD19, CD20, and CD45. Thirty‐two percent of MZL and 77% of FL expressed CD38. Expression of CD11c was seen in 57% of SMZL and 8% of other MZL (P < 0.01). Statistically significant differences in antigen expression between MZL and FL were seen for CD10, CD11c, and CD38. CD19 expression was significantly brighter in MZL (mean MCF of 455.3) than in FL (mean MCF of 166.9) (P < 0.001). MCF for isotype controls and CD20 were similar for FL and MZL.

Conclusions:

MZL expresses typical pan‐B‐cell antigens. Expression of CD11c is highly associated with SMZL. Levels of CD19 expression in conjunction with CD11c and CD38 expression can distinguish MZL from CD10 negative FL. © 2008 Clinical Cytometry Society
The nuclear localization of WAP and CSN genes is modified by lactogenic hormones in HC11 cells
Authors: Ballester Maria , Kress Clémence , Hue‐Beauvais Cathy , Kiêu Kiên , Lehmann Gaëtan , Adenot Pierre , Devinoy Eve
Published: May 2008

Whey acidic protein (WAP) and casein (CSN) genes are among the most highly expressed milk protein genes in the mammary gland of the lactating mouse. Their tissue‐specific regulation depends on the activation and recruitment of transcription factors, and chromatin modifications in response to hormonal stimulation. We have investigated if another mechanism, such as specific positioning of the genes in the nucleus, could be involved in their functional regulation. Fluorescent in situ hybridization was used to study the nuclear localization of WAP and CSN genes in mouse mammary epithelial cells (HC11) cultured in the absence and presence of lactogenic hormones. Automatic 3D image processing and analysis tools were developed to score gene positions. In the absence of lactogenic hormones, both genes are distributed non‐uniformly within the nucleus: the CSN locus was located close to the nuclear periphery and the WAP gene tended to be central. Stimulation by lactogenic hormones induced a statistically significant change to their distance from the periphery, which has been described as a repressive compartment. The detection of genes in combination with the corresponding chromosome‐specific probe revealed that the CSN locus is relocated outside its chromosome territory following hormonal stimulation, whereas the WAP gene, which is already sited more frequently outside its chromosome territory in the absence of hormones, is not affected. We conclude that milk protein genes are subject to nuclear repositioning when activated, in agreement with a role for nuclear architecture in gene regulation, but that they behave differently as a function of their chromosomal context. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 262–270, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hamiltonian threshold for strong products of graphs
Authors: Král' Daniel , Stacho Ladislav
Published: May 2008

We prove that the strong product of any at least ${({\rm ln}}\, {2})\Delta+{O}(\sqrt{\Delta})$ non‐trivial connected graphs of maximum degree at most Δ is pancyclic. The obtained result is asymptotically best possible since the strong product of ⌊(ln 2)D⌋ stars K1,D is not even hamiltonian. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 58: 314–328, 2008
Climate fluctuations in the Czech Republic during the period 1961–2005
Authors: Brázdil Rudolf , Chromá Kateřina , Dobrovolný Petr , Tolasz Radim
Published: May 2008

This article addresses climatic fluctuations in the Czech Republic in the period 1961–2005. On the basis of data collected at 23 climatological stations, the fluctuations in monthly, seasonal, and annual series of selected climate variables, homogenized by means of Standard Normal Homogeneity Test (SNHT) (after Alexandersson), are analysed. With almost unchanging temperature continentality expressed by the Gorczyński index, the annual series of mean air temperature, maximum and minimum temperature, daily temperature range, and sunshine duration all exhibit a rising linear trend, in contrast to dropping trends in relative air humidity, number of days with snow cover, and mean wind speed. There are no pronounced changes in precipitation totals, although their distribution over the course of the year becomes more regular in terms of the Markham seasonality index. Temperature trends, with the exception of autumn, show a clear enhancement since the 1980s; statistically significant rising trends occur for only spring, summer and the year in a good agreement with the Northern Hemisphere series. Linkage to fluctuation in the North Atlantic Oscillation Index (NAOI) is best expressed by the Czech temperature characteristics for January, February, and winter (in similar fashion to that for the number of days with snow cover), which can be ascribed to intensification of the western airflow over Central Europe. On the other hand, linkage to NAOI for precipitation is essentially weaker, because of the role of synoptic processes in influencing the occurrence of precipitation at the regional scale. Better relationships for temperature variables and wind speed are obtained if the Central European Zonal Index (CEZI) is used instead of NAOI as an indicator of circulation patterns in Central Europe. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Improved pulmonary and growth outcomes in cystic fibrosis by newborn screening
Authors: Collins Melanie Sue , Abbott Mary‐Alice , Wakefield Dorothy B. , Lapin Craig D. , Drapeau Ginny , Hopfer Sidney M. , Greenstein Robert M. , Cloutier Michelle M.
Published: May 2008

Background

Newborn screening for cystic fibrosis (CF) is effective in improving long‐term growth outcomes. However, there is conflicting evidence that early diagnosis maintains normal pulmonary function. Our goal was to determine if newborn screening results in improved longitudinal growth and maintenance of normal pulmonary function.

Methods

A retrospective study of individuals with CF born in Connecticut between 1983 and 1997 was conducted by medical record and CF Foundation Registry review. Growth, pulmonary function and bacterial acquisition/colonization data, from diagnosis through July 1, 2005, were compared in those diagnosed by newborn screen (n = 34) to those diagnosed by sweat test after symptom appearance (n = 21).

Results

Screened individuals demonstrated greater weight and height for age at diagnosis (P = 0.01 and 0.01) and through 15 years of age (P = 0.0002 and 0.01). Body mass index was higher in screened individuals (21 vs. 18 kg/m2) at 15 years of age (P = 0.01). At 15 years of age, screened individuals had a clinically higher forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC; 90% and 104% predicted) than non‐screened individuals (74% and 91% predicted;P = 0.08 and 0.10). Over a 9‐year period, from ages 6 to 15, percent predicted FEV1and FVC increased by 4% and 13% in screened individuals; and declined by 14% and 5% respectively in non‐screened individuals (P = 0.01 and 0.02). Acquisition/colonization ofPseudomonas aeruginosawas similar between groups (P = 0.23).

Conclusions

In this CF cohort, individuals diagnosed by newborn screening have improved growth and preservation of normal pulmonary function without increased risk ofPseudomonas aeruginosacolonization. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:648–655. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of candidate prostate cancer genes through comparative expression‐profiling of seminal vesicle
Authors: Thompson Maxwell , Lapointe Jacques , Choi Yoon‐La , Ong David E. , Higgins John P. , Brooks James D. , Pollack Jonathan R.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among men in the United States. In contrast, cancer of the seminal vesicle is exceedingly rare, despite that the prostate and seminal vesicle share similar histology, secretory function, androgen dependency, blood supply, and (in part) embryonic origin. We hypothesized that gene‐expression differences between prostate and seminal vesicle might inform mechanisms underlying the higher incidence of prostate cancer.

METHODS

Whole‐genome DNA microarrays were used to profile gene expression of 11 normal prostate and 7 seminal vesicle specimens (including six matched pairs) obtained from radical prostatectomy. Supervised analysis was used to identify genes differentially expressed between normal prostate and seminal vesicle, and this list was then cross‐referenced to genes differentially expressed between normal and cancerous prostate. Expression patterns of selected genes were confirmed by immunohistochemistry using a tissue microarray.

RESULTS

We identified 32 genes that displayed a highly statistically significant expression pattern with highest levels in seminal vesicle, lower levels in normal prostate, and lowest levels in prostate cancer. Among these genes was the known candidate prostate tumor suppressor GSTP1 (involved in xenobiotic detoxification). The expression pattern of GSTP1 and four other genes, ABCG2 (xenobiotic transport), CRABP2 (retinoic acid signaling), GATA3 (lineage‐specific transcription), and SLPI (immune response), was confirmed by immunohistochemistry.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings identify candidate prostate cancer genes whose reduced expression in prostate (compared to seminal vesicle) may be permissive to prostate cancer initiation. Such genes and their pathways may inform mechanisms of prostate carcinogenesis, and suggest new opportunities for prostate cancer prevention. Prostate 68: 1248–1256, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hypermethioninaemia due to methionine adenosyltransferase I/III (MAT I/III) deficiency: Diagnosis in an expanded neonatal screening programme
Authors: Couce M. L. , Bóveda M. D. , Castiñeiras D. E. , Corrales F. J. , Mora M. I. , Fraga J. M. , Mudd S. H.
Published: May 2008

The Expanded Newborn Screening Program (MS/MS) in the region of Galicia (NW Spain) was initiated in 2000 and includes the measurement of methionine levels in dried blood spots. Between June 2000 and June 2007, 140 818 newborns were analysed, and six cases of persistent hypermethioninaemia were detected: one homocystinuria due to cystathionine β‐synthase (CβS) deficiency, and five methionine adenosyltransferase I/III (MAT I/III) deficiencies. The five cases of MAT I/III deficiency represent an incidence of 1/28 163 newborns. In these five patients, methionine levels in dried blood spots ranged from 50 to 147 μmol/L. At confirmation of the persistence of the hypermethioninaemia in a subsequent plasma sample, plasma methionine concentrations were moderately elevated in 4 of the 5 patients (mean 256 μmol/L), while total homocysteine (tHcy) was normal; the remaining patient showed plasma methionine of 573 μmol/L and tHcy of 22.8 μmol/L. All five patients were heterozygous for the same dominant mutation, R264H in the MAT1A gene. With a diet not exceeding recommended protein requirements for their age, all patients maintained methionine levels below 300 μmol/L. Currently, with a mean of 2.5 years since diagnosis, the patients are asymptomatic and show developmental quotients within the normal range. Our results show a rather high frequency of hypermethioninaemia due to MAT I/III deficiency in the Galician neonatal population, indicating a need for further studies to evaluate the impact of persistent isolated hypermethioninaemia in neonatal screening programmes.