bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Factor VIII Inhibitor and F8 Gene Mutations in Persons with Hemophilia A from Benin
Authors: Baglo Tatiana , Zohoun Alban , Houssou Bienvenu , Massi Romaric , Guiwa Charlotte Orou , Anani Ludovic , Gazard Dorothée Kindé , Fall Awa Omar Touré
Published: March 2024

Aim: determine the prevalence of a FVIII inhibitors and identify the genetic mutations associated with their development in beninese personne with hemophilia (PwH) A.
Study Design: this is cross-sectional descrptive study conducted from June 2022 to May 2023 in hemophilia treatment centers in Benin.
Methodology: Inhibitor screening was carried out systematically in all PwHs A receiving FVIII infusion through determination of the circulating anticoagulant index and the Nijmegen-Bethesda assay. The molecular study strategy used for the F8 gene associated with hemophilia A is dependent on the severity of the hemophilia. Other data were collected either from patients' responses to the questionnaire or by studying their medical records and the center's hemophilia registry.
Results: Of the 97 PwHs A followed up, 57 had been treated with FVIII infusion. Of these, 21 had developed inhibitors, representing a frequency of 36.8% of treated PwHs A and 43.75% of severe PwHs. None of the moderate or mild PwHs A had developed anti-FVIII antibodies. PwHs A with inhibitors had a median age of 11 years, ranging from 1 to 66 years.  The Nijmegen-Bethesda test revealed 11 high responders and 10 low responders. Mutation analysis of the F8 gene revealed seven cases of intron 22 inversion, seven cases of nonsense mutations, three cases of deletion and one case of missense mutation. Mutations weren’t identified in three patients because their DNA did not amplify on long-distance PCR.  In terms of therapy, immune tolerance induction wasn’t achieved in any of the 21 patients, but they are treated with emicizumab and bypass depending on the context.
Conclusion: Although a cross-sectional study with a limited sample size, this study provides valuable information on beninese PwHs A with inhibitors. The frequency of inhibitors is high in treated PwHs A, and almost all patients who have developed inhibitors have high-risk genetic mutations.
Productivity of Dry Direct Seeded Rice as Influenced by Herbicide Combinations
Authors: P. Spandana Bhatt. P  , Reddy P. Raghu Rami , Varma NRG , Babu TK , Krishna L. , Mohan YC , Ramprakash T.
Published: March 2024

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif, 2022, in Institute of Rice Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad in Telangana state, India. Fourteen weed management practices were evaluated in a randomized complete block design, replicated thrice. Weed management in Dry DSR can be done by adopting mechanical/ Hand weeding at 20, 40, 60 DAS under labour available conditions. Under labour scarcity conditions PE application of Pendimethalin 38.4% + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 0.85% ZC 900 + 20 g/ha (Ready mix) followed by Metsulfuron Methyl 10% + Chlorimuron ethyl 10% WP  4 g/ha + Cyhalofop Butyl 10% EC 75g/ha (Tank mix) PoE weed followed by mechanical weeding at 40-45 DAS is the best option. Other suitable Pre emergence herbicides that can be used are Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10% WP 20 g/ha, Pendimethalin 38.4% + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 0.85% ZC 900 + 20 g/ha (Ready mix) and Pendimethalin 38.7 % CS 677.25 g/ha. Post emergence application of Triafamone 20% + Ethoxysulfuron l0% WG 44+22.5 g/ha (Ready mix) and Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop-butyl 5.1% OD 135 g/ha (Ready mix) at 2-4 weed leaf stage.
Relationship of ENSO and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) to Characterize Drought at Different Locations of Punjab, India
Authors: Chand Shivani , Dhaliwal L. K.
Published: March 2024

Drought is generally considered as a deficiency in precipitation over an extended period usually a season or more. It is a natural hazard that differs from other hazards since it has a slow onset, evolves over months or even years and its severity is often difficult to determine. Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) is a widely used index to characterize drought on a range of timescales. In this study SPI was calculated annually and season (Kharif and Rabi) wise to correlate drought with ENSO events at different locations of Punjab viz. Amritsar, Ballowal Saunkhri, Bathinda, Ludhiana and Patiala. The historical data of rainfall for different locations of Punjab viz. Amritsar (1971-2017), Ballowal Saunkhri (1984-2018), Bathinda (1971-2018), Ludhiana (1971-2018) and Patiala (1971-2018) were collected from the Department of Climate Change and Agricultural Meteorology, PAU, Ludhiana and Met Centre, India Meteorological Department, Chandigarh. It was found that at all the locations very strong El Nino of 1997-98 resulted in above normal rainfall. Drought like conditions was observed during El Nino years as value of SPI was negative but with few exceptions. The SPI values were positive during La Nina and neutral years. Droughts during kharif season were found to be more related to El Nino years compared to La Nina years.
A Study on the Vulnerability of Fruit Crop Growers to Climate Change in Kalyana Karnataka Region
Authors: Goutham Kumar M  , Mallikarjun Ningdalli , Kammar Shivanad , Basanayak Rajashekar
Published: March 2024

Vulnerability of fruit crop growers due to climate change can be defined as the degree to which the growers are susceptible to or unable to cope with the adverse effects of climate change. An ex-post-facto research design was used for the study. The study was conducted in the Koppal and Bidar districts of Kalyana Karnataka during the year 2022-23, to analyse the climate  change vulnerability of fruit crop growers. The total sample consisted of 80 fruit crop  growers, comprising 40 mango growers and 40 guava growers from both districts, respectively. A well-structured interview schedule and the Climate Change Vulnerability Index (CVI) was used for the study, which comprised three components: exposure, adaptive capacity and sensitivity to climate change. The overall CVI was found to be 0.124, which indicated a moderate level of vulnerability of growers to climate change. The CVI of Koppal district was 0.144, and that of  Bidar district was 0.105. This indicated that the growers in Koppal district were more vulnerable than those in Bidar district to climate change factors. It can be concluded that the socio-demographic and socio-psychological attributes of the farmers might have been influenced variably.
Impact of Climate Change Assessments on Horticultural Crop Dynamics in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Karthick R. , Arulmani K. , Ravi K.
Published: March 2024

Aim: This study aims to analyze the dynamics of horticultural crop production in Tamil Nadu amidst climate change, focusing on trends, challenges, and opportunities across diverse agro-climatic zones, primarily considering variations in rainfall.

Data: The research utilizes comprehensive datasets spanning a decade (2012-13 to 2021-22) encompassing records of rainfall, horticulture cultivation area, and production. The study focuses on major horticultural crop categories, including fruits, vegetables, plantation crops, spices and condiments, medicinal and aromatic crops, and flowers.

Objective: (1) analyze compound annual growth rates of area, production, and productivity of key horticultural crops in Tamil Nadu, (2) conduct decomposition analysis over a decade for horticultural crops, and (3) assess climate change impact on agricultural production in Tamil Nadu focusing on rainfall patterns.

Methodology: The study utilizes various analytical tools, including Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) analysis, percentage analysis, decomposition analysis, and the Cobb-Douglas production function. Secondary data from government publications, including the Season and Crop Report of Tamil Nadu and the Department of Horticultural and Plantation Crop Report of Tamil Nadu, are utilized for analysis.

Results: The analysis reveals intricate patterns influenced by climate variability, with certain zones demonstrating harmonious growth, while others contend with challenges related to cultivation and productivity. The decomposition analysis highlights the respective contributions of changes in cultivation area and crop yield to variations in production, underscoring the impact of climate change on agricultural dynamics. Additionally, the Cobb-Douglas production function analysis indicates significant effects of both rainfall and cultivation area on horticultural production, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of factors influencing production trends.
Effect of Mulberry Stalk Biochar, FYM and Humic Acid on Growth, Yield and Quality of Mulberry (Morus alba L.)
Authors: Lamani Hanumanta D. , Prakasha H. C.  , Naveen D. V.  , Kalyana Murthy K. N.  , Verma Rinku
Published: March 2024

A field experiment was conducted in a mulberry crop to investigate the impact of soil application of mulberry stalk biochar with FYM and foliar spray of humic acid on the growth, yield and quality of mulberry at a farmer's field in Mylandlahalli Village, Chintamani Taluk, Chikkaballapura District. The experiment was set up in a randomized complete block design with eight treatments, each replicated thrice. Result of the experiment revealed that among the various treatments applied, the combined application of biochar with FYM and humic acid (T8: Soil application of biochar @ 10 t ha-1 + FYM @10 t ha-1 + 2% Humic acid foliar spray) had significant effect on plant height (196.10 cm), number of shoots per plant (15.06), number of leaves per shoot (31.78), leaf yield (26.22 t ha-1), crude protein (20.28%) and lower crude fibre (1.56%). The next best treatments were T7 (Soil application of biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 + FYM @10 t ha-1 + 1% foliar spray of humic acid) and T6 (Soil application of biochar @ 5 t ha-1 + FYM @10 t ha-1 + 0.5% Humic acid foliar spray) and these treatments were statistically comparable but significantly superior to the package of practice (POP).
Effect of Foliar Spraying with the Growth Inhibitor Paclobutrazol on the Quality of Chandler Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) under Punjab Subtropics
Authors: Kour Rameet , Singh Ajitpal , Singh Parmeet , Fayaz Shayista , Shah Rafiq Ahmad
Published: March 2024

The field experiment conducted during the Rabi season of 2022 aimed to investigate the impact of foliar spray with the growth retardant paclobutrazol at various timings on the strawberry cultivar Chandler (Fragaria ananassa Duch). The experimental design employed a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatments, each replicated three times. Paclobutrazol was administered at different intervals, specifically at 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, and 140 days after planting, along with a control group receiving no spray. The results demonstrated a significant influence of Paclobutrazol spray timing on the quality parameters. Among the different treatments with the plant growth retardant, Treatment 4 (PBZ 250 ppm at 125 days after planting) exhibited the highest values for fruit length (31.40 mm), fruit width (25.70 mm), fruit thickness (1.79 mm), fruit weight (12.03 g), Total Soluble Solids (TSS) (9.50°Brix), Firmness (1.92 N) and Titrable Acidity (2.56%) whereas lowest values observed in the control.
Use of Post-Auricular Approach to Removal Anchors after Discopexy – Clinical Case Report
Authors: Perdigão Andréa Juliana Luz , Sato Fabio Ricardo Loureiro , Leal Marilia Oliveira Coelho Dutra , Teixeira Rubens Gonçalves , Jodas Claudio Roberto Pacheco
Published: March 2024

The mandibular temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is two diarthrodial ginglymus joints joined by a single bone, the mandible. Multiple approaches to TMJ are described in the literature due to the complexity of their exposure without damaging the noble structures in the region (facial nerve, temporal artery, and parotid gland) and causing aesthetic damage. This article will present a case report of a 21-year-old female patient. The post-auricular approach removed loose anchors in the right TMJ due to a fistula in the pre-auricular approach region. The post-auricular approach efficiently exposed TMJ and the healing, presenting superior aesthetic results compared to other TMJ approaches.
Evaluation of Traditional Rice Genotypes (Oryza sativa L.) for Seed Quality Traits under Aerobic Condition
Authors: Rachana Sura Venkata , Basavaraja B. , Shashidhara K. S. , Prakash K. N. , Manjunatha M. H. , Radha B. N. , Hanumanthappa D. C.
Published: March 2024

Freshly harvested seeds of 58 traditional rice genotypes and two checks (KRH-4 and Doddabyranellu grown under aerobic condition were subjected to seed quality evaluation. Among traditional rice genotypes lowest electrical conductivity (3.48 (dScm-1 g-1), highest germination percentage (99.67 %), α-amylase activity (2.03 cm) and total dehydrogenase activity (1.123) was observed in Neralisale, whereas highest thousand seed weight (30.00 gm), mean seedling length (37.83 cm), mean seedling dry weight (22.53 mg), seedling vigor index-I (3693) and II (2216) was noticed in Chinnaponni compared to other genotypes. Among checks, Doddabyranellu showed better seed quality traits. From this study it could be concluded that genotypes Chinnaponni and Neralisale are well-suited for aerobic condition, benefiting farmers facing irrigation constraints by ensuring improved seed quality.
Utilization of Shea Caterpillar (Cirina butyrospermi) Larvae Meal as Organic Feed Resource for Broiler Chickens
Authors: Seidu B  , Bonsu F. R. K.  , Kwenin W. K. J.  , Tawiah R.  , Daniel O. L.
Published: March 2024

Aims: The increasing feed cost of poultry production makes a search for suitable alternatives essential. A five-week study was conducted to determine the outcome of dietary shea caterpillar larvae meal (SCM) on growth performance, haematological and blood biochemical characteristics of broiler chickens.
Study Design: A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used for the experiment.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Animal Science Education (Poultry Section of the Animal farm) of Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Development, Asante Mampong, Ghana. The study lasted for five weeks.
Methodology: Ninety 4-week-old sexed Cobb 500 broiler chickens were assigned to five dietary treatments with three replicates. Each treatment had 18 birds with 6 birds per replicate in a male to female ratio of 4:2. Five dietary treatments were formulated to replace anchovy at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% with shea caterpillar larvae meal and designated as SCM0% (The Control), SCM25%, SCM50%, SCM75%, and SCM100% respectively. Data collected included proximate and amino acid analysis of shea caterpillar meal, growth performance, blood profile and cost benefit analysis. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance with General Linear Model (GLM) procedure of Statistical Analysis System (SAS for windows, version 7).
Results: The proximate and amino acids results showed that shea caterpillar meal contains 60.42 % crude protein, a crude fibre of 7.90 %, and 3306.76 kcal/kg of metabolizable energy as well as fifteen amino. There was a significant difference (P=0.05) among all the treatment means for daily feed and water intake, final body weight and total weight gain. For mean daily feed intake, SCM0% was similar to SCM25%, but statistically different from SCM50%, SCM75% and SCM100%. Birds fed dietary SCM25% (5134 g/bird) consumed more feed while the least was recorded from birds fed SCM75% (4615g/bird). Similar trend was observed for total water intake.
Mean Final weight and total weight gain, birds fed SCM0%, SCM25% and SCM50% were similar, but statistically better than SCM75% and SCM100%. It was noticed that final weight and total weight gain decreases as the inclusion levels of shea caterpillar meal increases.
The haematological and biochemical attributes were not significant except for red cell distribution width coefficient of variation and globulin respectively.
The red cell distribution width coefficient of variation values of birds on all the treatments was similar and more than twice the value obtained for the control treatment SCM0%. The globulin values of the birds fed the control, were similar to SCM25% and SCM50% but were significantly different from birds fed SCM75% and SCM100%.
Conclusion: It was concluded that the substitution of SCM for fish meal at a level not exceeding 50% had no detrimental effect but improved growth performance.
Optimizing Water Use for Okra Cultivation: A Soil Moisture Sensor-Based Approach
Authors: Raj Jeet , Khalkho Dhiraj , Tripathi M. P. , Bisen Yatnesh
Published: March 2024

Indian agriculture relies on monsoons, a water source notorious for its unreliability. To ensure sustainable production and productivity, the judicious and timely utilization of available water becomes imperative, emphasizing the need to maximize soil moisture while minimizing water losses. Drip irrigation stands out as a widely adopted and highly regarded water-conserving technology. The potential of an automated drip system becomes evident as it holds the promise of blessing farmers with higher yields despite the constraints of limited irrigation water. The necessity for a soil moisture-based drip irrigation system becomes apparent, tailored to the specific moisture and soil types of individual farms. A low-cost soil moisture sensor-based automated drip irrigation system emerges as the research objective, aiming to enhance efficiency and resource management. Gravity, coupled with drip irrigation, emerges as the most suitable method. The system operates in a closed-loop fashion, continuously monitoring and adjusting based on soil moisture content and the crop's water requirements. In the agricultural landscape of Chhattisgarh, where the total cultivable land spans 4.8 million hectares, with 0.51 million hectares dedicated to cultivating okra crops, the Crop Water Requirement (CWR) for okra varies from 30 cm to 55 cm, influenced by factors such as variety and crop seasons. The research yields insightful results, showcasing maximum water use efficiency in the sensor-based treatment at 46.76 kg/ha/mm, while the control irrigation exhibits a minimum efficiency of 26.66 kg/ha/mm.
Effect of Currency Depreciation on Share Prices of Listed Agricultural Firms in Kenya
Authors: Kiprop Cyrus , Koskei Loice
Published: March 2024

This paper sought to assess the effects of currency depreciation on share prices of listed Agricultural firms in Kenya in the recent past 2020- 2023. It adopted a descriptive correlational research design. The target population was all the six Agricultural companies listed at the NSE as of December 2023. Secondary data was collected from the Nairobi Securities Exchange and Central Bank for the period January 2020 and December 2023, data collected took a panel dimension thus a simple regression analysis was done to establish the extent of the relationship between variables. It is evident that the shilling has drastically depreciated against the dollar while stock prices exhibited a price increase.  The paper found out that a unit change in exchange rates leads to a change in stock prices by 0.094. This means that stock prices increase by 9.49%. Thus a weak positive relationship between exchange rates and stock prices therefore exchange rates alone cannot be used to explain stock price volatility. This paper findings informs investors, portfolio managers, regulators, listed companies, financial institutions, and other market players. portfolio managers are better when they increase their positions in equity stocks when they forecast a depreciation of the foreign currency and consequently dispose of shares in their portfolio if they predict an appreciation of the foreign currency. Additionally the government of Kenya should  also establish measures and policies to enhance the country’s agricultural exports as this will go a long way in improving the performance of its agricultural listed. Finally it recommends further studies on the topic since it considered only two variables; exchange rates and share prices over four years.
WORK CONDITION FACTORS AND EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL
Authors: Heman Ononye Uzoma , Olabode Olayemi Olufemi , Amram Abiegbe
Published: March 2024

Work conditions influenced employee engagement, but its influence was still unclear owing to its multifaceted nature and variations across professions and industries in highly dynamic environments. In addition, studies on the psychological mechanisms explaining this relationship were limited. The study examined specific work condition factors comprising leader-member exchange and role clarity as influences on employee engagement, given psychological capital as a mediating variable. Data were obtained from 231 customer-contact employees working in hotels in two major cities, Asaba and Warri, in Delta State, Nigeria, and analyzed using the partial least squares analytical procedure. The study found that leader-member exchange and role clarity relationships with employee engagement were positive and significant, and psychological capital mediated these relationships. Also, role clarity and psychological capital sequentially mediated the relationship between leader-member exchange and employee engagement. The study contributed an integrated research framework that uncovered the sequential effect of leader-member exchange on employee engagement and the simple and sequential mediation of psychological capital in this framework. The practical implications of the findings were discussed for improving employee engagement.
Significant Trends in Portrayal of Asian American in Hollywood Films and the Role of American Perspective
Authors: Ibarra Sharmaine
Published: March 2024

This research reexamines the relationship of reality and film through examining the significant changes in portrayal of Asian Americans in Hollywood films. The American perspective has played a critical role in portraying Asian characters in film for the longest time. However, the recent shift from portrayal of Asian-to-Asian American characters revealed that Hollywood films are slowly breaking away from dependency on American perspective. Instead, the reality that is started to be portrayed in Hollywood films is from the perspective of Asian Americans which is the long-time goal of Asian American community. The study examines the significant change in portrayal of Asian Americans in Hollywood films by classifying four periods; before 1990s, 1990s, 2000s and 2010s. Two films that represent the significant trend in each period are also analyzed. The study concluded that the increase in Asian American filmmakers and the efforts of Asian American community in utilizing technology aided the positive change. Despite of COVID-19 pandemic, positive change in portrayal of Asian Americans in Hollywood films is expected to continue through constant efforts.
The Potential of Pop-Up Artworks for Visual Communication in Digital Media
Authors: Yusuf Vanessa
Published: March 2024

The pop-up mechanism or paper engineering is often referred to as a physical card or book, which can show 3D objects when it is opened. In fact, pop-up artworks can also be found in digital media such as movies, animation, video games, video advertisement, and music video. There are many interesting differences between physical pop-up and digital pop-up that can be analyzed to maximize its potential and create great visual effects, especially in digital media. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method by collecting data through observation of digital pop-up artworks and literature studies. Various examples will be analyzed to find out the strengths, weaknesses, and potential of pop-up artworks for visual communication in digital media.
Elements of Digital Citizenship within Surabaya City Text in New Media
Authors: Rosyidi Zudan
Published: March 2024

This article identifies digital citizenship texts on the web www.c2o-libarary.net. These texts are analyzed using the concept of digital citizenship which was conceptualized by Westheimer and Kahne (2004), namely “personally responsible citizens”, “participatory citizens”, and “justice-oriented citizens”. These digital citizenship texts are narratives about individual and community activism in cyberspace which are uploaded via www.c2o-libarary.net. Each subject of the author tries to construct activism as a form of critically disseminating information and knowledge to other communities but with a narrative that is easy to understand and digest. The writer's knowledge and interaction in the Surabaya space is a determining factor in the narratives that are published in the media. In the end, the published narrative becomes a collection of concepts and ideas that can guide the government and the people of Surabaya to move forward and better life.
Accessibility to Education during the “Coup-Vid”: An Overview of Online Learning in Myanmar
Authors: Yuka Kato
Published: March 2024

While the concept of online classes is not new to the rest of the world, this became a common mode of learning in Myanmar only when the COVID-19 challenges became a reality in 2020 as physical classrooms could no longer be used. When the coup d’etat was staged in 2021, education was further halted since many schools and their students did not have the resources to teach and learn online in addition to the political instability. However, online learning has been trending on social media for those who do have access to these resources. This paper will investigate the ways in which young people engage in education facing the “coup–vid” (coup + COVID-19), the motivation behind such engagement, and insights how they are benefiting from digital tools for learning.
Catcalling as Street Harassment: A Critical Discourse Analysis
Authors: Kholifah Asrofin Nur
Published: March 2024

This study aims to explain the issue of catcalling as a form of harassment against women on the street. This research applies descriptive qualitative method which tries to identify, describe and explain phenomena through linguistic data along with the social and cultural context. The data were collected according to the research goal namely to explain the issue of catcalling depicted in the news text. The data were gathered by retrieving news text on catcalling issue from wollipop.detik.com and analyzed it using Fairclough's CDA framework. The results of the analysis show that in terms of text descriptions, the news writer used a variety of non-standard languages, informal word choices and the involvement of sources to support the issue. In terms of text interpretation, this media concentrates its news presentation on women-related issues by presenting its news which involves several sources to strengthen its reporting objectives. On the explanatory side of the text, the practice of discourse is associated with the socio-cultural context. Wollipop.detik.com alignment with the victim in this report confirms indirectly that the act of catcalling is a form of harassment against women. Readers are led to the understanding that as subtle as catcalling is, it is still a form of violence against women. Readers are also led to raising awareness of their impact. Readers' opinions are directed to provide a positive image as an active media in providing useful information to women as well as to play an active role in voicing injustice and inequality that occurs in society.
Anti-Hero Design to Grow the Meaning of Heroes from the Comic Entitled "Second Shot"
Authors: Robianto Louis Arthur , Waluyanto Heru Dwi , Asthararianty Asthararianty
Published: March 2024

Development of digital era encourages creative industry to continue grow by raising many issues, nowadays many are found in various visual media using anti-hero characters as main character. Anti-hero is hero character who has traits and characters that deviate from depiction of a hero in general (Bagaskara, 2021). They have the same goal of doing good but in a way that may sometimes be wrong or unjustified (Wahyudi, 2020). This character is very appropriate to express human imperfection which in life always has advantages and disadvantages. In contrast to superhero characters who are too perfect to be used as exemplary figures in real life. The media that will be used is comic with theme entitled "The Second Shot" where main character who is half human and alien will be faced with many choices that can determine the future of the world, besides being disappointed or having hidden hatred as well. From past events from both human side who had deceived him and aliens who only took advantage of him. The use of comics media as visual media is based on fact that target audience is younger generation between ages 18-25 years who are more interested in reading picture books than those that contain too many words.
Using the h‐index to rank influential information scientistss
Authors: Cronin Blaise , Meho Lokman
Published: May 2006

The authors apply a new bibliometric measure, the h‐index (Hirsch, 2005), to the literature of information science. Faculty rankings based on raw citation counts are compared with those based on h‐counts. There is a strong positive correlation between the two sets of rankings. It is shown how the h‐index can be used to express the broad impact of a scholar's research output over time in more nuanced fashion than straight citation counts.
Inactivation of herpes simplex type 1 gene vector on immobilized metal affinity chromatography: Oxidative damage by hydroxyl free radicals and its prevention
Authors: Jiang Canping , Ataai Mohammad , Ozuer Ali , Krisky David , Wechuck James , Pornsuwan Soraya , Pourarian Fazard , Glorioso Joseph C.
Published: May 2006

Metal catalyzed oxidation (MCO), which typically involves oxygen free radical generation, is an important pathway that leads to the deterioration of many biological molecules in solution. The occurrence of MCO in immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) systems and its potential for inactivating biological products has not been well recognized. In this study, we report the inactivation of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) gene therapy vector on immobilized cobalt affinity chromatography. We observed that purification of KgBHAT, an HSV‐1 mutant bearing cobalt affinity tags (HAT) on the surface, on an IDA‐Co2+ column using crude supernatant as starting material resulted in signification loss in virus infectivity (<5% recovery). Electron spin resonance (ESR) revealed that the virus inactivation was caused by hydroxyl free radicals generated from the interactions between cellular impurities and the metal ions on the column. Inclusion of 20 mM ascorbate, a free radical scavenger, in the chromatography mobile phase effectively scavenged the hydroxyl radicals and dramatically augmented the infectivity recovery to 70%. This finding is the first demonstration of oxygen free radical‐mediated biological inactivation in an actual IMAC purification and the way on how to effectively prevent it. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Endovenous laser treatment for long saphenous vein incompetence
Authors: Sharif M A , Soong C V , Lau L L , Corvan R , Lee B , Hannon R J
Published: May 2006

Background

Endovenous laser treatment is a percutaneous technique used for the treatment of long saphenous vein (LSV) incompetence. This paper presents the results of an uncontrolled case series undertaken to assess the feasibility, safety and efficacy of this technique.

Methods

Some 145 incompetent LSVs in 136 patients with saphenofemoral reflux were treated with endovenous laser. The data were evaluated prospectively. Assessment was carried out at 1 week, 3 and 12 months for LSV occlusion and symptomatic relief.

Results

Primary procedural success was achieved in 124 (85·5 per cent) of 145 LSVs. Reasons for primary failure included failed cannulation, failure to pass the guidewire and patient discomfort. At 3 months' follow-up, 105 (89·7 per cent) of 117 veins were totally and nine (7·7 per cent) were partially occluded. At 12 months, 63 (76 per cent) of 83 veins were totally and 15 (18 per cent) were partially occluded. At this stage 73 (88 per cent) of 83 patients remained satisfied, but 26 (31 per cent) had residual or recurrent varicosities. Of these, only five required further treatment. Complications included saphenous nerve injury in one patient and superficial skin burns in a second.

Conclusion

Endovenous laser treatment for LSV reflux is safe and can be carried out under local anaesthesia in an outpatient setting with good patient satisfaction and low complication rates.
Effects of arterial pressure in an experimental isolated haemoperfused porcine kidney preservation system
Authors: Hosgood S , Harper S , Kay M , Bagul A , Waller H , Nicholson M L
Published: May 2006

Background

Normothermic preservation provides metabolic support to an ischaemically damaged organ before use as a kidney transplant. Optimal conditions for ex vivo preservation have not yet been established. This study examined the effects of arterial pressure on renal preservation using isolated haemoperfused kidneys.

Methods

An isolated organ preservation system, developed using cardiopulmonary bypass technology, was used to perfuse porcine kidneys with normothermic oxygenated blood. Groups of kidneys (n = 6) were perfused at a mean arterial pressure of 95, 75 or 55 mmHg.

Results

Kidneys perfused at the higher mean arterial pressures of 95 and 75 mmHg demonstrated improved renal function: mean(s.d.) area under the curve (AUC) for creatinine clearance 71(19) and 55(30) respectively versus 14(12) in the 55-mmHg group, P = 0·002; AUC for serum creatinine 938(140) and 1290(394) versus 2404(595), P = 0·003. The higher perfusion pressures were also associated with better acid–base homeostasis and improved renal haemodynamics.

Conclusion

Mean arterial pressures of either 95 or 75 mmHg were capable of sustaining physiological renal function, but kidneys in the 95-mmHg group demonstrated superior renal function overall.
The Theory of Non‐Cottrellian Diffusion on the Surface of a Sphere or Truncated Sphere
Authors: Thompson Mary , Wildgoose Gregory G. , Compton Richard G.
Published: May 2006

A method is developed whereby spherical and other particles can be derivatised with electroactive species on their surface and then immobilised on the surface of an electrode. The chronoamperometric and voltammetric responses in the limit of reversible electrode kinetics are modelled using a theory of charge movement over the surface of the spheres where this movement is considered as a diffusional process. The model is extended to include different distributions of sphere radii and to model the scenario of truncated spheres resting on the electrode surface. It is found that a good estimation of the truncation angle can be found by fitting the experimental data with theoretical predictions.
Theoretical Investigation of the Decarbonylation of Acetaldehyde by Fe+ and Cr+
Authors: Zhao Lianming , Guo Wenyue , Zhang Rongrong , Wu Shujuan , Lu Xiaoqing
Published: May 2006

We report a comprehensive theoretical study on the decarbonylation of acetaldehyde by Fe+ and Cr+. Various intermediates, transition states, and products involved in the decarbonylation reactions are fully optimized at the B3LYP/6‐311+G(2df,2pd) level of theory. The potential energy surfaces (PESs) corresponding to [M,O,C2,H4]+⋅(M=Cr and Fe) are examined in detail using B3LYP and CCSD(T) methods, respectively. The validity of these theoretical methods is calibrated with respect to the available thermochemical data. Calculations suggest that the Cr+ mediated decarbonylation of acetaldehyde takes place in four steps on the sextet surface: encounter complexation, CC activation, aldehyde H‐shift, and nonreactive dissociation, in good accordance with the Co+ mediated decarbonylation of acetaldehyde [Zhao, Zhang, Guo, Wu, Lu, Chem. Phys. Lett. 2005, 414, 28], while for the Fe+/acetaldehyde system decarbonylation can occur on both the quartet and the sextet PESs. The quartet pathway, which experiences spin–orbit coupling between the two surfaces, is energetically more favorable; whereas along the sextet decarbonylation coordinate several high‐energy barriers are revealed. The theoretical results are compared with the experimental product kinetic energy and angular distributions of decarbonylation of acetaldehyde by Fe+ and Cr+ measured using a crossed‐beam technique [Sonnenfroh, Farrar, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1986, 108, 3521].
Mapping ribosomal RNA transcription activity in the mouse eye
Authors: Qian Jiangchao , Lavker Robert M. , Tseng Hung
Published: May 2006

All cells must make ribosomes, in which rRNA transcription is the rate‐limiting step; however, some cells may require more ribosomes than others. Cell‐type specific regulation of rRNA synthesis has been largely ignored in the past, because of the inability to measure rRNA transcription rate in situ. Here we map rRNA transcription activity in individual cells in mouse ocular tissues detected by a novel in situ hybridization technique, which detects the full‐length transcripts (47S pre‐rRNA) as well as various rRNA processing intermediates. In the adult mouse eye, the corneal and lens epithelia and some retinal neurons contain a higher level of 47S pre‐rRNA and rRNA processing intermediates, which are regulated developmentally in neonates prior to eye opening. In the cornea and lens epithelia, the higher rRNA level of 47S rRNA correlates with cell proliferation, which is consistent with the notion that dividing cells require more protein synthesis. Interestingly, in some retinal neurons, the high level of 47S pre‐rRNA does not correlate with mature rRNA accumulation or protein synthesis, suggesting the existence of unappreciated biochemical needs of these cells. Developmental Dynamics 235:1984–1993, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glutamate leakage from a compartmentalized intracellular metabolic pool and activation of the lipoxygenase pathway mediate oxidative astrocyte death by reversed glutamate transport
Authors: Re Diane B. , Nafia Imane , Melon Christophe , Shimamoto Keiko , Goff Lydia Kerkerian‐Le , Had‐Aissouni Laurence
Published: May 2006

Astrocytes have essential roles for neuron survival and function, so that their demise in neurodegenerative insults, such as ischemia, deserves attention. A major event of the cell death cascade in ischemia is the reversed operation of excitatory amino acid transporters (EAAT), releasing glutamate. Cytotoxicity is conventionally attributed to extracellular glutamate accumulation. We previously reported that mimicking such dysfunction by EAAT substrate inhibitors, whose uptake induces glutamate release by heteroexchange, triggers glutathione (GSH) depletion and oxidative death of differentiated astrocytes in culture. Here we demonstrate that astrocyte death, although correlated with glutamate release, is not resulting from high extracellular glutamate‐mediated toxicity. L‐glutamate per se was gliotoxic only at concentrations much higher than the maximum reached with the potent EAAT substrate inhibitor L‐trans‐pyrrolidine‐2,4‐dicarboxylate (PDC), and toxicity was lower. Moreover, high glutamate concentrations offered protection against PDC. Protection was also provided by L‐aspartate, which is both transported by EAAT and metabolized into glutamate, and by inhibiting glutamine synthetase, which uses transported glutamate to synthesize glutamine. Neither D‐aspartate, a metabolically inert EAAT substrate, nor compounds that can provide glutamate intracellularly but are not EAAT substrates offered protection. Interestingly, only the compounds providing protection prevented PDC‐induced GSH depletion. These data strongly suggest that reversed uptake‐mediated astrocyte death results from the leakage of glutamate from a compartmentalized intracellular metabolic pool specifically fuelled by EAAT, crucial for preserving GSH contents. In addition, we provide evidence for a minor contribution of the cystine‐glutamate antiporter xc− but a major role of the 5‐lipoxygenase pathway in this death mechanism. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Complete epididymal separation presenting as polyorchidism
Authors: Zuppa Antonio Alberto , Nanni Lorenzo , Di Gregorio Flavio , Visintini Federica , Buonuomo Valentina , Pintus Claudio
Published: May 2006

We describe an unusual case of a 21‐month‐old boy with complete separation of the testis and epididymis. Two homogeneous structures were observed in the scrotum of a newborn boy in addition to a third structure. Polyorchidism was suspected, but follow‐up sonographic studies showed a decrease in the echogenicity of the left scrotal structure. Surgical exploration revealed the testis and epididymis to be completely separated, with no duplicated testis. Orchidopexy was then performed. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 34:258–260, 2006
Anterior sacral meningocele simulating ovarian cyst
Authors: Erdogmus Besir , Yazici Burhan , Ozdere Betul Ayca , Safak Alp Alper
Published: May 2006

Anterior sacral meningocele is a rare condition characterized by the herniation of meningeal membranes and cerebrospinal fluid through a defect in the anterior aspect of the sacrum. We report a case of an anterior sacral meningocele that was mimicking an ovarian cyst. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 34:244–246, 2006
Sonographic diagnosis of a toothpick traversing the duodenum and penetrating into the liver
Authors: Chiang Tsung‐Hsien , Liu Kao‐Lang , Lee Yi‐Chia , Chiu Han‐Mo , Lin Jaw‐Town , Wang Hsiu‐Po
Published: May 2006

Ingested foreign bodies rarely cause gastrointestinal perforation, because the majority are passed out uneventfully in the feces. However, long, sharp, slender, hard, indigestible objects such as toothpicks are dangerous and may lead to potentially life‐threatening complications. We report a case of duodenal perforation caused by a toothpick and complicated by liver abscess and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus sepsis. Although laparotomy was not performed because of the patient's refusal to undergo surgery, the liver abscess and sepsis were controlled successfully with antibiotics. We also conducted a literature search for reports on injuries caused by ingested toothpicks. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 34:237–240, 2006
Retroperitoneal neurilemoma diagnosed by endosonographically guided fine needle aspiration
Authors: Facciorusso Domenico , Federici Telemaco , Giacobbe Antonio , Niro Grazia Anna , Piermanni Vito , Andriulli Angelo
Published: May 2006

Retroperitoneal neurilemoma is an often asymptomatic benign tumor that is usually discovered incidentally. We report a case of retroperitoneal neurilemoma diagnosed via endosonographically guided fine needle aspiration and emphasize the importance of obtaining a definite diagnosis before surgical treatment. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 34:241–243, 2006
Glutathione peroxidase 4 protects cortical neurons from oxidative injury and amyloid toxicity
Authors: Ran Qitao , Gu Mingjun , Van Remmen Holly , Strong Randy , Roberts James L. , Richardson Arlan
Published: May 2006

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in membrane lipids are prone to attack by reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the resulting lipid peroxidation can cause injury and death of cells. Glutathione peroxidase 4 (Gpx4) is an antioxidant defense enzyme that can directly detoxify lipid hydroperoxides generated by ROS. Overexpression of Gpx4 has been shown to be protective against oxidative damage in several cell lines. We examined in this study the stress response of neurons with increased expression of Gpx4, because neurons are especially vulnerable to oxidative injury as a result of their high content of PUFA. Our results show that primary culture cortical neurons derived from Gpx4 transgenic mice, which had increased expression of Gpx4, had increased cell survival and reduced level of apoptosis after exposure to t‐butyl hydroperoxide and hydrogen peroxide. We also studied the protective role of Gpx4 against β‐amyloid toxicity, because β‐amyloid‐induced neural toxicity is believed to be mediated through lipid peroxidation. Primary culture cortical neurons from Gpx4 transgenic mice had significantly less cell toxicity than their wild‐type counterparts after exposure to Aβ25–35 and Aβ1–40 peptides, and apoptosis induced by Aβ25–35 was attenuated in neurons from Gpx4 transgenic mice. Our data demonstrate that overexpression of Gpx4 protects neurons against oxidative injury and β‐amyloid‐induced cytotoxicity. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reconstructing hemispheric‐scale climates from multiple stalagmite records
Authors: Smith Claire L. , Baker Andy , Fairchild Ian J. , Frisia Silvia , Borsato Andrea
Published: May 2006

The magnitude of recent warming, and the variability of climate on centennial‐millennial time scales are compromised by questions concerning the ability of tree rings to capture low‐frequency climate fluctuations. Annually laminated stalagmite records can potentially provide a low‐frequency climate archive through variations in annual growth rate. Presented here is an initial attempt to demonstrate the applicability of annually laminated stalagmite series to a large‐scale climate reconstruction, by producing a 500‐year Northern Hemisphere temperature reconstruction. The reconstruction shows an overall warming trend with a magnitude of 0.65 K and several other low‐frequency characteristics consistent with other independent Northern Hemisphere archives. The result is sufficiently encouraging to warrant significant future effort in characterising annual growth rate records from laminated speleothems. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society.
Synoptic sea‐level pressure patterns generated by a general circulation model: comparison with types derived from NCEP/NCAR re‐analysis and implications for downscaling
Authors: McKendry I. G. , Stahl K. , Moore R. D.
Published: May 2006

A principal component analysis (PCA)‐based synoptic typing scheme is used to assess the ability of the Canadian Centre for Climate Modelling and Analysis (CCCma) Coupled Global Climate Model (CGCM2) to reproduce daily mean‐sea‐level (MSL) synoptic patterns and their frequencies for the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Model output for the ‘control’ period 1961–1989 is compared against the climatology based on National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) re‐analysis data. Although CGCM2 is able to reproduce the full range and seasonality of 13 synoptic types it significantly under‐represents three cold types and over‐represents (by about 50%) three warm/wet winter types. This effect is most pronounced in winter months. Differences in frequencies between the CGCM2 runs (1961–1989 climatology and 1990–2100 IPCC SRES ‘A2’ greenhouse gases (GHG) and aerosol forcing scenario) are smaller than the differences between NCEP and CGCM2 synoptic type frequencies for the 1961–1989 control. Unresolved orographic influences and atmosphere‐ocean coupling are cited as possible explanations for model deficiencies. Results suggest that application of CGCM2 output in downscaling studies examining regional impacts should take account of these potential biases. The approach adopted provides a methodology for not only assessing progress in emerging generations of more sophisticated higher resolution General Circulation Models (GCMs) (e.g. CGCM4 is under development), but also choosing the most appropriate model for regional downscaling studies. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society.