bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure of the load capacity of the RC structural system under corrosion damage to columns
Authors: Kolchunov Vitaly , Savin Sergey
Published: April 2023

A number of accidents, such as the partial collapse of a residential building in Surfside on June 24, 2021, or the collapse of the roof structure of Basmanny Market in Moscow on February 23, 2006, show that aggressive medium impacts on reinforced concrete structures lead over time to a decrease in their strength resistance resource under accidental impacts. At the same time, the investigations in this field mainly deal with structural members under bending, while eccentrically compressed and corroded reinforced concrete members have been considered either in particular aspects or the obtained solutions are rather complicated for their practical application. In this regard, the purpose of the article was to assess the influence of the corroded depth on the load capacity of eccentrically compressed reinforced concrete columns of structural frames, as well as to predict the time of exhaustion of their load capacity under constant serviceable loads. The paper adopted the phenomenological model of V.M. Bondarenko to take into account long-term corrosion processes. It had been established that an increase in the corroded depth leads to a decrease in the load capacity of eccentrically compressed reinforced concrete members due to a decrease in the effective cross-sectional depth and effective slenderness ratio. The relative depth of the destroyed concrete varies depending on the current stress-strain state of the structural member. The time to reach the critical corroded depth depends significantly on the parameters of aggressive medium and the stress-strain state of the structural member and may differ by several times when implementing avalanche or descending damage kinetics.
Assessment of passenger comfort on the fast ferry operating in the strait of Malacca
Authors: Jamal J , Sulisetyono Aries , Aryawan Wasis
Published: April 2023

The ship operator needs passenger feedback on the comfort of inter-island speed ferries as information on improving passenger comfort services. This paper analyzes the comfort of passengers on fast passenger ferries operating in the Malacca Straits directly. The survey focuses on directly assessing the level of passenger comfort and evaluating the leading causes of passenger discontentment. The strategy adopted is the dissemination of a questionnaire to onboard passengers, with a response rate of around 30 out of a minimum of 24 referring to the SLOVIN formula. The comfort score in the questionnaire is divided into five points, namely: uncomfortable or queasy, dizzy and slightly queasy, dizzy, slightly dizzy, and comfortable. The measured data were validated using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Dunnett Simultaneous Tests for Differences in Means, which gave a P-value of 0.000 and a degree of confidence of 98.97%. The findings of the study indicated that respondents, on average, rated this ship as slightly uncomfortable to comfortable, giving it a comfort rating of 4.10 out of a possible 5. Moreover, three aspects, namely the ship's motion, the accommodation facilities, and the ship's vibration, significantly contribute to discomfort, as indicated by ratings of 3.8, 4.2, and 4.2, respectively, out of 5 (comfortable), indicating the severity of the effect. Furthermore, by knowing that the main source of passenger discomfort is ship motion, it can be input for ship operators in managing the comfort of ship passengers.
Quotients of arithmetical functions under the Dirichlet convolution
Authors:   Tampere University, Haukkanen Pentti
Published: April 2023

We study existence of a solution of the arithmetical equation $f\ast h = g$ in $f,$ where $f\ast h$ is the Dirichlet convolution of arithmetical functions $f$ and $h,$ and derive an explicit expression for the solution. As applications we obtain expressions for the Möbius function $\mu$ and the so-called totients. As applications we also present our results on the arithmetical equation $f\ast h = g$ in the language of Cauchy convolution and further deconvolution in discrete linear systems.
Translation, validity, and reliability of the European Portuguese version of the Touch Experiences and Attitudes Questionnaire
Authors: Pereira Ana Rita , Antunes Joana , Trotter Paula D. , McGlone Francis , González-Villar Alberto J. , Sampaio Adriana
Published: April 2023

Background

Positive touch experiences have proved to be extremely important throughout our lifespan, with cascading effects on our social life. However, few questionnaires are available to measure attitudes and experiences of touch in the Portuguese population. This study aimed to translate and validate the European Portuguese version of the Touch Experiences and Attitudes Questionnaire (TEAQ), as a reliable and valid instrument to measure different aspects of affective touch experiences and attitudes.

Methods

Therefore, an online sample of 384 (299 females and 85 males) participants, aged between 18 and 75 years (M = 24.59; SD = 9.56) was collected. Multidimensional Rasch model and confirmatory factor analysis were carried out, and also reliability and convergent and discriminant validity were determined. In addition, we examined sex differences in attitudes and experiences of touch.

Results

Results showed good fit indexes for the 52-item six-factor model structure (friends and family touch, current intimate touch, childhood touch, attitudes to self-care, attitudes to intimate touch, and attitudes to unfamiliar touch). This instrument also showed good reliability and acceptable convergent and discriminant validity. Significant sex differences were found, with female participants reporting more positive touch experiences (including childhood touch, friends and family touch, and current intimate touch) and a more favourable attitude to self-care, with males showing a more positive attitude towards unfamiliar touch. Regarding attitudes towards the intimate touch, scores for both groups were comparable.

Conclusion

Overall, the European Portuguese version of the TEAQ presented good psychometric properties and appears to be a reliable and valid self-report measure, being a useful and beneficial instrument in research and clinical settings.
SARS-CoV-2 ORF3A interacts with the Clic-like chloride channel-1 (CLCC1) and triggers an unfolded protein response
Authors: Gruner Hannah N. , Zhang Yaohuan , Shariati Kaavian , Yiv Nicholas , Hu Zicheng , Wang Yuhao , Hejtmancik J. Fielding , McManus Michael T. , Tharp Kevin , Ku Gregory
Published: April 2023

Understanding the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and host cell machinery may reveal new targets to treat COVID-19. We focused on an interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 ORF3A accessory protein and the CLIC-like chloride channel-1 (CLCC1). We found that ORF3A partially co-localized with CLCC1 and that ORF3A and CLCC1 could be co-immunoprecipitated. Since CLCC1 plays a role in the unfolded protein response (UPR), we hypothesized that ORF3A may also play a role in the UPR. Indeed, ORF3A expression triggered a transcriptional UPR that was similar to knockdown of CLCC1. ORF3A expression in 293T cells induced cell death and this was rescued by the chemical chaperone taurodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA). Cells with CLCC1 knockdown were partially protected from ORF3A-mediated cell death. CLCC1 knockdown upregulated several of the homeostatic UPR targets induced by ORF3A expression, including HSPA6 and spliced XBP1, and these were not further upregulated by ORF3A. Our data suggest a model where CLCC1 silencing triggers a homeostatic UPR that prevents cell death due to ORF3A expression.
Cognition and Functional Recovery in Severe Mental Disorders-A Narrative Review
Authors: Rinita J Jane , Jyothi Suvarna
Published: April 2023

Severe Mental Illness (SMI) like schizophrenia and mood disorders has a prolonged and strenuous course which takes a major toll on the lives of the patients. In an effort to understand the consequence of these illness functional recovery has been studied in detail in the past. Cognitive impairment has been identified as an important contributor to the functional recovery. Cognitive impairment is an important component, independent of the symptoms, of SMI. Various cognitive deficits are found to occur in patients with SMI. Patients with lesser cognitive deficits were found to have better outcomes. This narrative review explains about cognitive impairment and functional outcome in people with SMI and the existing evidence for the relationship between both. Authors had performed manual search strategy of PubMed, Google Scholar engines for relevant research publications and reviewed them along with cross references from the retrieved articles. A broad review on the research shows, cognitive impairment has been recognised in both patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder even during periods of symptomatic remission and that people with symptomatic recovery continued to have functional deficits. This review also showed that patient with lesser cognitive deficits had better outcomes. Keeping this in mind, cognitive rehabilitation should be made a part of the management of SMI to achieve complete functional recovery
Effectiveness of Minocycline in Multidrug Resistance Gram Negative Bacilli: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Santhi Gunasekaran , Kumar Palraj Kennedy , Sridharan Kopula Satyamoorthy
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Antibiotic resistance is a global public health threat and remains a challenge for the physicians. Due to increased incidence of resistance to the commonly prescribed antibiotics, a newer drug or a re-emerge of an older class of antibiotic will be a choice of treatment of the Multidrug Resistant (MDR) organisms. Aim: To determine the effectiveness of Minocycline in MDR gram negative bacterial isolates by determining its Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and to compare its effectiveness with Imipenem and Meropenem. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional periodical study was conducted during May 2016 to May 2017 using 150 non repetitive MDR gram negative bacterial isolates recovered from various clinical specimens sent to Central Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Institute, SRIHER, Porur, Chennai, India. All the isolates were subjected for antibiotic susceptibility testing by disc diffusion method for the routine antibiotics and MIC determination by Epsilometry test (E-Strip) for Minocycline and Meropenem and interpreted as per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines 2016. Results: Out of the 150 study isolates minocycline was was susceptible in 105 (70%; n=150) followed by imipenem and meropenem both susceptible for 94 isolates (62.7%; n=150). Minocycline was also susceptible among the 84% (79; n=94) of meropenem susceptible strains with a statistically significant p-value of <0.05. Similarly 46.4% (26; n=56) of meropenem resistant strains were susceptible for minocycline which was also statistically significant with a p-value <0.05. Conclusion: Considering the cost of treatment with colistin which is the choice of treatment for carbapenemase producing gram negative bacteria’s, minocycline can be considered as it is cheaper and less toxic. The possibility to switch from injectable to oral formulation is also possible with minocycline and so can also be considered as an alternative for colistin in such conditions.
Role of Animal Models in Periodontal Clinical Research and its Present-Day Status: A Narrative Review
Authors: Baheti Muskan , Durge Khushboo , Bajaj Pavan , Kale Bhairavi , Shirbhate Unnati
Published: April 2023

The use of animal models have aided in the development of new information in periodontology research. Animal models enable legal acceptance of human welfare. Dogs, rats, ferrets, hamsters, mice and on rare occasions, rabbits and sheep have been used to study human periodontal diseases. Animal models were chosen because they have similar anatomical and physiological features of the oral cavity and periodontium, as well as the presence of causative agents that contribute to the occurrence of natural periodontal disease in humans. There has been a progression toward the development of a feasible and sufficiently accurate model that accurately reflects the true pathogenic mechanisms of living person periodontal disease. Non human primates have been used extensively in periodontal investigations as well as in medical technology to understand the origin of periodontal disease. Caries and calculus study is best accomplished through hamsters and rat. Periodontal disease and calculus formation in ferrets could be potential and encouraging in the research area. Thus, the structural and pathophysiology of the animal kingdom differs from that of human beings and seems sometimes troublesome with the latest therapies. Hamster stays an intriguing model for immunological studies. New possibilities in the periodontal analysis are now accessible, enabling broader cohorts that are easier to build. The goal of this review is to give an overview of the animal models that have been employed in the periodontal investigation. The purpose of this review is to identify the best animal model for periodontal research and also for the safety precautions for human beings. The use of factfinding models used in periodontal disease is crucial to grasp the root source in the human being. Animal models are beneficial in periodontal surveys and an unavoidable step before accessing clinical testing with the latest biomaterials and therapies.
Biochemical and Oxidative Stress Responses in Clarias gariepinus Exposed to Sublethal Concentrations of Benzo[a]pyrene
Authors: Osuagwu U. O. , Ujowundu C. O. , Nwaogu L. A. , Nwaoguikpe R. N.
Published: April 2023

The effect of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) on selected plasma biochemical parameters of the tropical African catfish C. gariepinus was investigated. Apparently healthy juvenile fish (n = 90; mass = 19.7 ± 1.8 g) were exposed to sublethal concentrations of BaP over a period of 35 days after which haematological and plasma biochemical analysis were carried out on whole blood and plasma respectively. While there were significant declines in red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin, haematocrit and platelet count, significant elevations were observed in mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and white blood cell (WBC) count. Significant increases were also observed in the activities of the liver enzymes, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). There were significant increases in the activities of the oxidative stress enzymes, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione s-transferase (GST). Findings from this study reveal that benzo[a]pyrene causes changes in haematological and plasma biochemical profiles in exposed aquatic organisms.
The Phytochemical and Antifungal Efficiency of Bean Leaf and Root against Some Pathogenic Fungi Isolated from Spoilt Vegetables Sold within Anambra Metropolies
Authors: Frances Ejimofor Chiamaka , Enoch Nwakoby Nnamdi , Johnson Oledibe Odira , Eziamaka Afam-Ezeaku Chikaodili , Ann Mbaukwu Onyinye
Published: April 2023

Investigated in vitro were the phytochemical and antifungal properties of bean leaf and root against certain pathogenic fungi isolated from spoiled vegetables marketed in Anambra metropolises. By combining 100g, 100ml of sterile distilled water, and ethanol with each plant part, two (2) distinct extract concentrations were produced from each plant component. The plants were subjected to phytochemical screening using several conventional techniques, which identified the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, phytate, oxalate, and phenol in all of the plants but at various amounts. The effects of common antibiotics (Fluconazole 30 g/ml) were compared to those of plant extracts. According to a pathogenicity test, good vegetables rot was caused by Aspergillus niger, Fusarium solani, Penicillium sp, Rhizopus sp, and Mucor spp. The ethanol extract from beans root turned out to be more effective. The extraction solvent, extract concentration, and test pathogens all had an impact on the extract's effectiveness. When extract concentration rose, the amount of fungal growth inhibition also rose. All of the test fungi's mycelia development was effectively/highly inhibited by beans root, although water extracts exhibited a lower degree of inhibition. Farmers should utilise bean root ethanolic extracts instead of synthetic or commercial fungicides due to their fungitoxic potential against vegetable storage fungi.
Estimation of Inheritance Leaf Rust, Powdery Mildew, Yield and Yield Components in Barley through Generation Means Analysis
Authors: Mansour Mohamed , Elshawy E. E. , Abdel-Azim Ashgan M. , Mohdly B. R. , Hamden Salem
Published: April 2023

The success of breeding program for improvement any crop depends mainly on the available background of the inheritance of the studied traits to be selected. This study was carried out during 2018/2019, 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 grown seasons at the experimental farm of Sakha Agricultural Research Station, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt to estimate the effect of genetic parameters controlling yield and yield component traits in addition severity of leaf rust and powdery mildew disease infection. Six generations (P1, P2, F1, F2, BC1 and BC2) model was used. Results indicated that, mean effect (m) was highly significant in all evaluated crosses for all studied traits. The relative importance of additive and dominance effects differed from trait to another in each cross. For epistatic components, dominance × dominance interaction effects were more effective than other components in most studied traits. Significant or/and highly significant values in desirable direction of heterosis compared to mid and better parent were obtained from most studied crosses in yield and its attribute traits, but it found over mid parents only for cross no.1 in leaf rust and crosses no. 1 and 2 in powdery mildew infection. The estimation of broad-sense heritability showed high values for studied traits and crosses, while narrow-sense heritability and genetic advance from selection ranged from low to medium in most crosses for the agronomic traits, while it ranged from low to high for leaf rust and powdery mildew infection. Finally, the results of this study recommended the barley crosses no. 4 for improve yield potential and resistant to leaf rust and cross no. 5 to improve resistance to powdery mildew, where it had high genetic advance associated with high heritability.
Genetic Divergence for Grain Yield and Its Components in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.): Experimental Investigation
Authors: Yadav Pradeep Kumar , Sikarwar R. S. , Verma Badal , Tiwari Sushma , Shrivastava D. K.
Published: April 2023

The present investigation Comprises 34 advanced breeding lines including checks of bread wheat and experiment was conducted in a complete randomized block design with three replications at the research farm department of genetics and plant breeding, RVSKVV, B.M. College of Agriculture, Khandwa during Rabi season (November 2021 to April 2022) for estimation of the multivariate analysis of divergence. The advanced breeding lines were grouped into seven clusters. Cluster III contained the highest number of advanced breeding lines(12) and clusters V, VI, and VII contained the lowest (1 each). The inter-cluster distance in most cases was larger than the intra cluster distance which indicated that wider diversity is present among the advanced breeding lines of distant grouped. The highest intra cluster distance was observed in cluster IV revealed maximum genetic divergence among its constituents. The highest inter-cluster distance was found between cluster VI and VII and the lowest was between cluster V and VI. Highest cluster mean exhibited in cluster VII for most of the agro-morphological traits i.e. number of tillers/plant, spike length, spike weight, number of grain/spike followed by cluster II for grain filling period, days to maturity and plant height. On the basis of genetic diversity analysis, maximum percent contribution towards genetic divergence in 34 advanced breeding lines were found in grain filling period, days to maturity, number of grain/spike, days to 50% flowering, biological yield per plant and harvest index. Such differences in the genetic component of traits studied in the manuscript can be applied as a source of variation in other breeding programmes and crossing nurseries for wheat improvement.
Essential Oils: An Ecofriendly Approach for Plant Pest and Disease Management
Authors: Rhouma Abdelhak , Hajji-Hedfi Lobna , Bousselma Abla , Matrood Abdulnabi Abbdul Ameer
Published: April 2023

Recently plant essential oils received increasing attention for plant health and food security in the sustainable agriculture context. Essential oils are promising biological sources since they are cost-effective, biodegradable, and safe for human health and the environment. This review covers the essential extraction characteristic, extraction methods, and conservation needed for the scientist’s and industries’ knowledge. Furthermore, the main biological activities and involvement of essential oils in plant pests and diseases are outlined. Finally, this review concludes the potential commercial application and the future challenges of essential oils as an eco-friendly method in sustainable agriculture.
Effect of Zinc and Boron on Growth, Yield and Quality of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49
Authors: Meena Kriparam , Verma R. S. , Singh Vipnesh , Shivra Bhag Chand , Meena Sonam , Diwakar Nikita
Published: April 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2020-2021 at Horticulture Research Farm-1, BBAU, Lucknow on 15- year- old guava plants, Studies on the Effect of Zinc and Boron on Growth, Yield and Quality of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49”, revealed Number of fruits per tree, Yield per tree (kg), Total chlorophyll content (mg/g), Average weight of fruit (g), Volume of fruit (cc), TSS ( 0Brix), Acidity (%), Ascorbic acid content in pulp (mg/100g), Non reducing sugar (%), Reducing sugar (%), Total sugar (%), were significantly affected by foliar application of Zinc sulphate and boron. All parameters best performed under the Treatment nine (T9) where the dose of Zinc and Boron (Borax 0.2%+ Zinc Sulphate 0.2%) applied as foliar spray.
Smart Trash Collection System – An IoT and Microcontroller-Based Scheme
Authors: Paul Niloy Kanti , Saha Dipanwita , Biswas Kaushik , Akter Samia , Islam Rifat Tasnia , Bhuyan Muhibul Haque
Published: April 2023

Aims: IoT-based trash collection system is a system that can automatically detect obstacles, which can be simplified as trash, and opens the Meta Bin lid to receive the trash. The main goal of the system is to make an environment where to find a digital and automatic way to the trash collection system.

Study Design: The existing research aims to design, simulate, and implement a new system that can play a vital role in terms of making the environment clean, in a large sense the world clean. Along with that a system that can carry not only a trash bin but also any portable devices as it can be operated automatically.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Computer Science and Engineering and Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB), Dhaka, Bangladesh between October 2022 and February 2023.

Methodology: In this work, we have designed a new model using Arduino, an IoT device, a servo motor, an ESP8266 Wi-Fi microchip, several DC motors, several IR Sensors, LEDs, etc. to build a system like Meta-Bin. Arduino IDE is used for program development.

Results: This is an automated trash bin, which has a different level of trash collection capacity with proper identifications and LED light indications. Also, a continuous notification system is enabled here. After testing the implemented system, the system gives an accurate result in every possible way and has an accuracy rate of more than 95%.

Conclusion: After the successful implementation of this research, we hope that there will be an autonomous, well-decorated, digital, and user-friendly system available for the citizens of Bangladesh. This will be immensely helpful for all kinds of people and to ensure a clean environment, this research might play a vital role soon.
Tau isoform expression and phosphorylation state during differentiation of cultured neuronal cells
Authors: Smith Carthage J. , Anderton Brian H. , Davis Daniel R. , Gallo Jean-Marc
Published: July 2002

The axonal microtubule‐associated protein, tau, is thought to play an important role in axonal growth and in the establishment of neuronal polarity. In adult human brain there are six alternatively spliced tau isoforms, which have different microtubule binding affinities in vitro. The tubulin‐tau interaction is further modified by phosphorylation of tau and, compared to adult brain tau, both foetal brain tau and paired helical filament (PHF) tau, characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, are hyperphosphorylated. In vivo both the expression of tau isoforms and their phosphorylation states are developmentally regulated. In order to establish the correlation between the expression of tau isoforms and their pattern of phosphorylation, we have characterised these two features in several in vitro models of neuronal differentiation, including the human neuroblastoma cell lines, SK‐N‐SH, SH‐SY5Y and IMR32 cells, rat PC12 cells and primary rat cortical neurones. Sensitive RT‐PCR analysis revealed a different complement of tau isoforms in the different cell lines and neuritogenesis was associated mainly with an increase in the overall tau protein level with no apparent phosphorylation changes. A switch in tau isoform expression occurred only at the terminal stages of neuronal development, when it may be important in reinforcing the previously established axonal cytoarchitecture.
In vitro differentiation of human monocytes to macrophages results in depletion of antioxidants and increase in n‐3 fatty acids levels
Authors: Visioli Francesco , Marangoni Franca , Moi Davide , Risè Patrizia , Galli Claudio
Published: July 2002

The lipid composition and α‐tocopherol content of human monocytes were investigated before and after their differentiation to macrophages. The total lipid and protein content per number of cells increased after the differentiation of monocytes by approximately four‐fold; a two‐fold increase in docosahexaenoic and docosapentaenoic acids and a two‐fold decrease in linoleic acid were also noted. As opposed to an initial monocytic vitamin E content of 4.75 pmol/106 cells, macrophagic vitamin E levels were undetectable. Changes in vitamin E and fatty acids contents in macrophages, with respect to monocytes, appear to reflect the lipid composition of fetal calf serum, that is low in vitamin E and has a proportionally higher docosahexaenoic acid content than adult human serum.
Protein kinases induced by osmotic stresses and elicitor molecules in tobacco cell suspensions: two crossroad MAP kinases and one osmoregulation‐specific protein kinase
Authors: Droillard Marie-Jo , Thibivilliers Sandra , Cazalé Anne-Claire , Barbier-Brygoo Hélène , Laurière Christiane
Published: July 2002

Two protein kinases displaying mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) properties are activated both by an hypoosmotic stress and by oligogalacturonides in tobacco cell suspensions [Cazalé et al. (1999) Plant J. 19, 297–307]. Using specific antibodies, they were identified as the salicylic acid‐induced protein kinase (SIPK) and wound‐induced protein kinase (WIPK). The SIPK was also activated by an hyperosmotic stress, indicating that the same kinase may play a role both in hypo‐ and hyperosmotic signalling pathways, in addition to its involvement in the transduction of elicitor signals. Using immunoprecipitation followed by two‐dimensional in‐gel kinase assay, three molecular forms of the SIPK were observed, suggesting that additional modifications of the activated kinase may occur. In contrast to WIPK and SIPK, which are located at the crossroad of several transduction pathways initiated by elicitor or osmotic stimuli, a 44 kDa kinase, that would not belong to the MAPK family, appeared more specific to osmotic stress.
Butyric acid increases invasiveness of HL‐60 leukemia cells: role of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Richard Doriane , Hollender Patrick , Chénais Benoît
Published: July 2002

Butyric acid (BA) induces differentiation of human leukemia, including HL‐60 cells. By using a fluorescent probe, we showed that reactive oxygen species (ROS) were generated in BA‐treated cells. BA‐induced differentiation was accompanied with an increased secretion of pro‐matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9. Both phenomena were inhibited by antioxidants. Tissue inhibitors of MMP (TIMP)‐1 and ‐2 secretion were increased by BA, but differently affected by antioxidants. By contrast, BA did not affect MMP‐9 mRNA, and decreased TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 mRNA levels. In addition, migratory and invasive properties of HL‐60 cells were enhanced by BA, but differently affected by antioxidants. Altogether, these results indicate that ROS are messengers of BA‐induced differentiation and increased invasiveness.
Ultrastructural characterization of atrial natriuretic peptide receptors (ANP‐R) mRNA expression in rat kidney cortex
Authors: Grandclément Béatrice , Morel Gérard
Published: July 2002

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and two complementary peptides named brain natriuretic peptide and C‐type natriuretic peptide are involved in diuresis, natriuresis, hypotension and vasorelaxation. Their actions are mediated by highly selective and specific ANP receptors. Three subtypes have been characterized and cloned: ANP receptor A, −B and −C. In the present study, the mRNA for each subtype was detected by ultrastructural in situ hybridization on ultrathin sections of Lowicryl‐embedded tissue and frozen tissue. The distribution of mRNA (visualized by gold particles) for each subtype was found to differ in different cells of the nephron. The three subtypes of this receptor family were expressed in all the parts of the nephron, but their expression levels were different. The ANPR‐A mRNA was the most abundant in cells of glomerulus, proximal and distal tubules. The subtype C was the least expressed mRNA in glomerulus. In contrast, the subcellular localization of the three mRNAs was similar; they were found in the cytoplasmic matrix and the euchromatin of the nucleus. In conclusion, the differential expression of these mRNAs in kidney cortex indicates that these three peptides act directly in differing parts of nephron regions which are the glomerulus, the proximal and distal tubules.
A review of empirical research on manufacturing flexibility
Authors: Vokurka Robert J , O'Leary‐Kelly Scott W
Published: July 2002

Manufacturing flexibility is widely recognized as a critical component to achieving a competitive advantage in the marketplace. A comprehensive look at the empirical research pertaining to manufacturing flexibility highlights the very fragmented nature of this body of work. We present a comprehensive contingency‐based framework for examining the content related issues involving the relationships and variables included in past studies. We also examine several important research design/methodology issues (e.g., sampling, data collection and measurement) and propose solutions to some identified problems.
An Efficient Medium for High Protein Production in the Insect Cell/Baculovirus Expression System
Authors: Jesionowski Gary A. , Ataai Mohammad M.
Published: July 2002

Previously, we have described a serum‐free insect cell culture medium, referred to as Efficient Medium for Insect Cell Growth (EMICG) (Ferrance et al., 1993) . The medium supports cell growth to a high density and minimizes the formation of metabolic byproducts (e.g., ammonia and alanine) due to a tight coupling of energetic and biosynthetic demands. In this paper, we examine the ability of EMICG to support infection and recombinant protein production. Cells were infected with and without medium replacement at various densities with MOI values in the range 0.008–8. The experimental results revealed that the production of β‐galactosidase (model recombinant protein) was substantially higher (1.5–2.6‐fold) in the EMICG cultures than the commercial SF‐900 II medium. Moreover, β‐galactosidase levels achieved in EMICG are higher than those reported in the literature using other commercial media. Results of experiments in which medium was replaced at the time of infection indicate that the enhanced productivity may be due to lower production of toxic by‐products in EMICG.
High‐throughput class I HLA genotyping using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) probes and sequence‐specific primer‐polymerase chain reaction (SSP‐PCR)
Authors: Gelsthorpe A.R. , Wells R.S. , Lowe A.P. , Tonks S. , Bodmer J.G. , Bodmer W.F.
Published: July 2002

We have developed a semi‐automated HLA class I typing system utilising TET/TAMRA‐labelled fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) hydrolysis probes. The results from 87 individuals are in full concordance with serology and conventional gel‐based systems. This assay replaces labour‐intensive conventional gel‐based DNA typing and has a higher allelic resolution than serology. Our approach differs from previously published fluorogenic probe typing protocols in that it provides simultaneous typing of HLA‐A, ‐B and ‐C loci to medium resolution. Furthermore, by using equipment that is not specific to FRET probe analysis our system has in‐built expansion capacity to 384 reactions per plate, thus making it applicable to high‐throughput population screening. Automation is achieved through the use of computer software which analyses direct input from the fluorescence reader, allowing high throughput with a low inherent error rate.
Prospective, controlled, multi‐center study on the effect of an amino‐acid‐based formula in infants with cow's milk allergy/intolerance and atopic dermatitis
Authors: Niggemann Bodo , Binder Christiane , Dupont Christophe , Hadji Said , Arvola Taina , Isolauri Erika
Published: July 2002

Cow's milk allergy/intolerance is treated by complete avoidance of cow's milk proteins. Because cow's milk is an important food for infants, its avoidance may lead to an increased risk of growth impairment. Whilst there is evidence for the beneficial effects of extensively hydrolyzed cow's milk formulae (eHF) in infants with cow's milk allergy/intolerance, little is known about the effects of amino‐acid‐based formulae (AA) in such infants. We therefore performed a prospective, controlled, multi‐center trial to study the efficacy of AA in comparison with eHF, on the growth and clinical symptoms of 73 infants (median age 5.7 months) with cow's milk allergy/intolerance and atopic dermatitis. Cow's milk allergy/intolerance was proven in all infants by double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food‐challenge. We observed a significant improvement in the SCORAD index in both groups, from a mean of 24.6, at entry, to a mean of 10.7 (p < 0.0001) after 6 months. In the AA group there was a significant increase in the length standard deviation score (p < 0.04), whilst there was no difference in the eHF group. The weight‐for‐length values were stable in both groups. The energy intake during the study was similar in both groups. Both an AA and eHF resulted in a significant clinical improvement in infants with an early onset of symptoms of cow's milk allergy/intolerance. Feeding an AA resulted in improved growth compared with feeding eHF, despite similar dietary intakes, and may therefore be considered as a beneficial alternative in infants with severe cow's milk allergy intolerance.
Two essential regions for tRNA recognition in Bacillus subtilis tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase
Authors: JIA Jie , XU Feng , CHEN Xianglong , CHEN Li , JIN Youxin , WANG Debao T.P.
Published: July 2002

Bacillus subtilis tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (TrpRS) is a homodimeric enzyme. A model for its ability to recognize tRNATrp in B. subtilis was proposed by using computer modelling. This was based on the the fact that there is high homology among bacterial TrpRSs [Chen, Jiang, Jin and Wang (2001) Acta Biochim. Biophys. Sinica 33, 687–690], in which the enzyme dimer binds to two tRNATrp molecules and each tRNATrp is bound to two different domains across the surface of the dimer. In this work, three deletion mutants of TrpRS were constructed and their products were purified. After determining the kinetic parameters of the mutants in the two-step reaction, it was found that the relative activities of wild-type and mutant enzymes had changed little in the ATP-pyrophosphate exchange reaction. In contrast, the activities of three mutant proteins were much decreased in the tRNATrp aminoacylation assay. Deletion of residues 108–122 and residues 234–238 caused 44% and 80% reductions in the activity, respectively. When both regions were deleted, the aminoacylation activity of the TrpRS mutant was too low to be determined using tRNATrp at the limiting concentration. Gel-retardation assays showed that the acceptor minihelix and the anticodon microhelix were recognized by the domains of TrpRS spanning residues 108–122 and residues 234–238 respectively. In addition, the deletion of amino acids 234–238 affected the normal induced expression of TrpRS at 37°C. In conclusion, residues 108–122 and 234–238 were found essential for tRNATrp recognition.
Lamellar corneal autograft for corneal perforation
Authors: Mbbs C L Cheng , Mmed(ophth) D T H Tan
Published: July 2002

Background: Corneal perforation secondary to exteriorization of the haptic foot of the anterior chamber intra‐ocular lens (IOL) is a rare complication in IOL surgery.

Case Report: A superior penetrating corneal defect developed in the right eye of a 74‐year‐old woman associated with exteriorization of the superior haptic of an anterior chamber IOL.

Methods: We describe the technique of repositioning and successful patching of the defect using a lamellar cornea‐sclera rotational autograft.

Conclusions: This technique is useful for small perforations when cornea donor tissue is not available.
A comparative study of a digital radiography system
Authors: Lai KW‐S , Langlois S Le P
Published: July 2002

The present study aimed to examine the efficiency of a new digital radiography system that was installed in the Royal Adelaide Hospital in September 1997, as compared to the existing conventional radiography system. A total of 55 examinations were observed over a 3‐week period in January, and these consisted of 18 digital and 10 conventional chest examinations, and 27 conventional orthopaedic examinations. These were combined with 18 digital orthopaedic examinations recorded from a prior study. Total examination time was broken into several components, of which reporting time was of the most interest. The mean reporting times for digital and conventional chest examinations were 17 and 25 min, respectively, a significant (P < 0.1) 8‐min difference. The orthopaedic examinations revealed mean reporting times of 8 and 26 min for digital and conventional systems, respectively; a significant (P < 0.001) 18‐min difference. These results demonstrate that the digital system is a faster, more efficient system for the reporting of X‐rays.
A time–motion study of digital radiography at implementation
Authors: Langlois S Le P , Vytialingam RC , Aziz NA
Published: July 2002

With increasing budgetary restraints on the health system, it is apparent that the main contribution that radiology departments can make to significant cost reduction in hospitals is to decrease the length of time between requesting an X‐ray examination and receiving the report (and images). Digital radiography (DR) was introduced into the Radiology Department at the Royal Adelaide Hospital as a pilot project to research the cost–benefits and efficiency of the system, and to determine future directions for planning a digital department. The business plan developed prior to implementation of this pilot project predicted a saving of one bed‐day per inpatient when a fully digital department with a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) is installed. This initial study comparing DR and conventional radiography (convR) provides baseline data and shows encouraging results for more rapid transmission of reports to clinicians.
Role of the medical physicist in interventional radiology
Authors: Wallace AB
Published: July 2002

Interventional radiological procedures have significantly increased the probability for the expression of deterministic detriment to the patient. It is the responsibility of the consulting medical physicist to undertake the responsibility that (i) appropriate equipment is specified and purchased; (ii) the equipment purchased produces the best possible image quality for the minimum dose; (iii) accurate dosimetry is measured, calculated and recorded; (iv) interventional physicians and surgeons are adequately trained in the fundamental techniques that will minimize the dose to both patients and staff, while maintaining high image quality; and (v) interventional protocols, record keeping and patient follow‐up, in the case of deterministic doses, are appropriately implemented.
Surveillance of acute flaccid pjpclysis in Australia, 1995–97
Authors: D’Souza RM , Kennett M , Antony J , Herceg A , Harvey B , Longbottom H , Elliott E , Unit CONTRIBUTORS TO THE AUSTRALIAN PAEDIATRIC SURVEILLANCE
Published: July 2002

Objective: Acute flaccid pjpclysis (AFP) surveillance in Australia as part of the World Health Organization (WHO) certification process for polio eradication in the Western Pacific region.

Methods: Active monthly AFP surveillance through the Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, from March 1995 to December 1997.

Results: Based on 80 cases, the reported overall rate of AFP was 0.73 per 105 children < 15 years (below the expected 1 per 105). The major causes of AFP were Guillain–Barré syndrome (51%) and transverse myelitis (19%). According to the WHO virological classification, there was no case of poliomyelitis, 37.5% were ‘non‐polio’ and 62.5% cases were ‘polio compatible’ due to inadequate stool testing and follow‐up. However, case review by an expert panel enabled 95% to be classified as ‘non‐polio’.

Conclusion: Australia must improve AFP surveillance to confirm absence of wild poliovirus. Paediatricians can help Australia meet its certification requirements and contribute to the global eradication effort by reporting and investigating all cases of AFP.
Reexamination of Interictal Psychoses Based on DSM IV Psychosis Classification and International Epilepsy Classification
Authors: Kanemoto Kousuke , Tsuji Tomokimi , Kawasaki Jun
Published: July 2002

Summary: We sought to examine interictal psychoses based on the international epilepsy classification and DSM IV criteria, with special attention paid to epilepsy types as well as to subcategories of psychoses. One hundred thirty‐two outpatients were studied, each with definite evidence of both epilepsy and interictal psychosis clearly demarcated from postictal psychosis. We compared them with 2,773 other epilepsy outpatients as a control. Risk factors for psychosis were examined within the temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) group and the more extended group of symptomatic localization‐related epilepsy. Further, nuclear schizophrenia and other nonschizophrenic psychotic disorders were compared. We confirmed a close correlation between TLE and interictal psychoses. Within the TLE group, only early epilepsy onset and a history of prolonged febrile convulsions were revealed to be significantly associated with interictal psychosis. Within the symptomatic localization‐related epilepsy group, such parameters as complex partial seizures, autonomic aura, and temporal EEG foci were closely associated with psychoses. There was also a significant difference between groups as to ictal fear and secondary generalization. Whereas patients with early psychosis onset and a low intelligence quotient were overrepresented in the nuclear schizophrenia group, drug‐induced psychosis and alternative psychosis were underrepresented. TLE proved to be preferentially associated with interictal psychoses. Within the TLE group, medial TLE in particular was found to be more closely associated with psychosis. Our data support the original postulation of Landolt, stating that alternative or drug‐induced psychoses constitute a definite subgroup of interictal psychoses, which are different from chronic epileptic psychoses that simulate schizophrenia.
Asymmetric AlGaAs quantum wells for second-harmonic generation and quasiphase matching of visible light in surface emitting waveguides
Authors: Harshman P. J. , Wang S.
Published: July 2002

We present an analytical calculation of the second-order susceptibility for second-harmonic generation of visible radiation in asymmetric AlGaAs quantum wells. The calculation suggests that a second-order susceptibility magnitude equal to that of bulk GaAs can be achieved in optimally designed wells. The sign of the second-order susceptibility can be changed by inverting the well asymmetry so that quasiphase matching of the second-harmonic generation is possible. Simulation of a multiquantum well surface emitting waveguide designed for quasiphase-matched second-harmonic generation indicates that second-harmonic conversion efficiency can be improved by over a factor of 100.
Novel high efficiency copolymer laser dye in the blue wavelength region
Authors: Brouwer Hendrik-Jan , Krasnikov Victor V. , Hilberer Alain , Wildeman Jurjen , Hadziioannou George
Published: July 2002

The lasing performance and wavelength tunability of a novel high efficiency copolymer poly[(2, 5, 2″, 5″-tetraoctyl)-p-terphenyl-4,4″-ylene vinylene-p-phenylene vinylene], TOP-PPV, pumped with third harmonic radiation of a Nd:YAG laser, was studied in various organic solvents. The results were compared with Coumarin 120 and Coumarin 47 in ethanol under identical experimental conditions. The efficiency of the TOP-PPV copolymer in hexane exceeds that of both coumarin dyes with more than 50%. The laser emission of the polymer dye in hexane is tunable in the wavelength region between 414 and 456 nm (Δλ=38 nm).
Generation of hole traps in thin silicon oxide layers under high-field electron injection
Authors: Brożek Tomasz , Viswanathan Chand R.
Published: July 2002

The letter reports an observation of a new degradation mechanism in thermal silicon dioxide layers on silicon, namely generation of hole traps under high-field stressing of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) structure. Excess hole trapping due to newly generated hole traps is observed by substrate hot-hole injection in 9 nm oxide of p-channel MOS transistors after high-field Fowler-Nordheim stress followed by standard post-metallization annealing in nitrogen. The concentration of generated traps has a weak stress-polarity dependence and increases with electron fluence during degrading stress. Relaxation behavior under switching oxide fields indicates that the nature of hole trapping sites is different from anomalous positive charge centers.
Properties of aluminum nitride thin films for piezoelectric transducers and microwave filter applications
Authors: Dubois Marc-Alexandre , Muralt Paul
Published: July 2002

Aluminum nitride thin films have been grown by reactive magnetron sputter technique using a pulsed power supply. The highly (002)-textured columnar films deposited on platinized silicon substrates exhibited quasi-single-crystal piezoelectric properties. The effective d33 was measured as 3.4 pm/V, the effective e31 as 1.0 C/m2. The pyroelectric coefficient turned out to be positive (4.8 μC m−2 K−1) due to a dominating piezoelectric contribution. Thin-film bulk acoustic resonators (TFBAR) with fundamental resonance at 3.6 GHz have been fabricated to assess resonator properties. The material parameters derived from the thickness resonance were a coupling factor k=0.23 and a sound velocity vs=11 400 m/s. With a quality factor Q of 300, the TFBARs proved to be apt for filter applications. The temperature coefficient of the frequency could be tuned to practically 0 ppm/K.