bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge of Computer Ergonomics among Third and Final year Dental Students: A Cross-sectional Survey from Nagpur, India
Authors: Golhar Smriti Jagdhari , Bhalme Bhuvenshwari , Motwani Mukta B
Published: January 2024

Introduction: During the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the world has experienced many changes, including increased computer and internet usage. Spending more time on computers can lead to the development of various postural problems, resulting in pain and inefficiency in the workplace. Aim: To assess the knowledge of computer ergonomics among third and final year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students at VSPM’s dental college in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, questionnairebased study was conducted on third and final year students between November 2020 and February 2021 in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology at VSPMDCRC, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee (IEC/VSPMDCRC/15/2020). A self-administered questionnaire, formulated and validated by independent subject experts, was used. A total of 216 students were included in the study over a two-month period. Informed consent was obtained from the students. The questionnaire consisted of 34 questions on computer usage and knowledge of ergonomics, and the responses were recorded. Descriptive statistics were performed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 for Windows. Quantitative data were expressed as mean and standard deviation. The association between categorical variables was checked using the Chi-square test, with a significance level set at 5%. Results: The mean age of the students was 22.20 years total of 216 students, including 158 females and 58 males, were included in the study. The results showed that 20.37% of third year students (44/96) and 31.48% of final year students (68/96) were aware of the term "ergonomics". The majority of students were unaware of the principles of ergonomics. However, 169 (78.2%) students knew the correct position of the head and neck while using a computer. Additionally, 164 (75%) students were aware of the need for lower back support, 167 (77.3%) were aware of the placement of input devices, and 174 (80.6%) were aware of the alignment of devices. Moreover, 168 (77.8%) subject knew that the monitor and working surface should be glare-free, and 120 (55.6%) were aware that a sloped desk surface is required for reading or writing. Furthermore, 157 (72.7%) subjects used a headset or speakerphone while writing, typing, or talking on the phone, and 164 (75.9%) subjects took regular eye breaks. Conclusion: The present study highlights a lack of practical knowledge and application of ergonomics among the participants. There is a need to prioritise creating awareness and developing healthy ergonomics practices among dental students through Continuing Dental Education programs (CDE). The authors also recommend that the curriculum for healthcare courses should incorporate healthy ergonomics practices as a part of the curriculum.
Clinico-epidemiological Analysis of Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia Bacteraemia, its Associated Risk Factors and Outcome in Patients Admitted at a Tertiary Care Centre in Northern India- A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Singh Romya , Kar Mitra , Dubey Akanksha , Sahu Chinmoy , Patel Sangram Singh
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a Gram-negative, motile, and glucose non fermenting bacterium commonly found in hospital settings. It poses a significant risk to immunocompromised individuals, often causing nosocomial infections. Aim: To identify the risk factors associated with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bacteraemia and compare the factors influencing patient survival and mortality. Materials and Methods: Clinical and laboratory data from 39 cases of Stenotrophomonas bacteraemia encountered between July 2021 and July 2022 in the Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, were analysed in the present retrospective study in August 2022. The study included all cultures positive for S. maltophilia bacteraemia, identified through Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Time- Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, following the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Statistical analysis and outcome assessment were conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: Clinical data from all 39 bacteraemia patients were extracted from the hospital information system for analysis. The mean age of the patients included in the present study was 46.0±20.29 years, with a male predominance of 27 (69.23%). The most common risk factors associated with S. maltophilia bacteraemia were the presence of an indwelling catheter in 21/39 cases (53.8%) and co-existing pulmonary infections in 18/39 cases (46.2%). S. maltophilia isolates exhibited high susceptibility to Minocycline (94.87%), Ticarcillin-Clavulanic acid (87.18%), Levofloxacin (84.62%), and Cotrimoxazole (84.62%). The 30-day mortality rate was reported as 28.20% (11/39). Conclusion: S. maltophilia can cause various infections in immunocompromised patients. The appropriate use of empirical antibiotics and strict adherence to infection control measures can reduce hospital stays, as well as 14-day and 30- day mortality rates among affected patients.
Synthesis, Characterization, Fluorescence and Antibacterial Activities Studies of Transition Metals Complexes with a Macro Acyclic Schiff Base Ligand
Authors: Barr Fatou , Ndiaye Ndèye Fatou , Kama Antoine Blaise , Tamboura Farba Bouyagui , Dieng Moussa , Alambedji Rianatou Bada , Thiam Ibrahima Elhadji , Barry Aliou Hamady , Claiser Nicolas , Souhassou Mohamed , Gaye Mohamed Lamine
Published: January 2024

The reactions of the Schiff base 2,2’-[(2-hydroxypropane-1,3-diyl) bis-(imino-methane diyl)] bis-(4-bromophenol) (H3L), with metal transition ions (Mn(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II),) afforded one type of complex formulated as [M(HL)(H2O)2].nH2O. These compounds have been characterized by elemental analysis, UV–Vis, FTIR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies, molar conductivity and room temperature magnetic measurements. The structure of nickel (II) complex has been determined by X-ray crystallography. The complex crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pnma with a = 7.7702(4) Å, b = 23.1921(15) Å, c = 10.6853(5) Å, V = 1925.57(15) Å3, Z = 8, R1 = 0.043 and wR2 = 0.107, Dcalc = 1.893 Mg m−3. The ligand acts in tetradentate fashion in its di-deprotonated form. Two coordinated water molecules complete the coordination sphere. The environment around the Ni(II) center is best described as an octahedral geometry. In the crystal structure of the Schiff base ligand, the existence of a strong intramolecular O-H•••O hydrogen bonding [O2W-H2W 0.80(3) Å, H2W •••O1 1.915(3) Å, O2W••• O1 2.6258(19) Å, O2W-H2W•••O1 148(3)°] and [O1W-H1W 0.73(3), H1W•••O1 2.15(4) Å, O1W•••O1 2.836(2)Å, O1W-H1W•••O1 156(4)°] are observed. Antibacterial activity study shows that the cadmium (II) complex is more active than the free ligand on.
Productive Performance and Fruit Quality of Short Days Italian Genetic-based Strawberry Cultivars and Genotypes in Southern Brazil
Authors: Welter Paola Daiane , Lima Juliana Martins de , Fagherazzi Antônio Felipe , Rufato Daiana Petry , Rufato Leo , Kretzschmar Aike Anneliese , Baruzzi Geanlucca , Bogo Amauri
Published: January 2024

When grown under different climatic conditions, short days Italian genetic-based strawberry (IGBS) cultivars and genotypes present variations in productive performance and fruit quality. The objective of this study was to assess different productive performance and fruit quality of IGBS cultivars and genotypes grown in highland regions of southern Brazil. The experiment were conducted in randomized block design using three cultivars and 21 genotypes during the 2019, 2020 and 2021 growth seasons. The data were subjected to multivariate analysis using principal component analysis (PCA). IGBS cultivars and genotypes differed significantly in terms of productive and fruit quality parameters, according to PCA data. The first and second main components of PCA, respectively, were responsible for 61.9% and 72.4% of the productive performance and fruit quality parameters. The Pircinque cultivar and FRF PIR 256.04, ITA 13.097.05, ITA 12.103.22, ITA 10.107.07, and ITA 10.133.02 genotypes showed the highest indices of productive parameters of total production per plant, commercial production per plant, total fruit number per plant and commercial fruits number per plant. Among these, the Pircinque cultivar and the FRF PIR 256.04 genotypes demonstrated the best fruit quality parameters of fruit color (skin luminosity, chroma, and hue angle), flavor (soluble solids/ titratable acidity ratio), and fresh commercial fruit mass in highland regions of southern Brazil during the 2018, 2019 and 2020 growth seasons.
Increasing the Yield of Photoinduced Charge Separation through Parallel Electron Transfer Pathways
Authors: MANIGA NYANGENYA I. , SUMIDA JOHN P. , STONE SIMON , MOORE ANA L. , MOORE THOMAS A. , GUST DEVENS
Published: September 2002

A strategy for increasing the yield of long-lived photoinduced charge separation in artificial photosynthetic reaction centers which is based on multiple electron transfer pathways operating in parallel has been investigated. Excitation of the porphyrin moiety of a carotenoid ( C )–porphyrin ( P )–naphthoquinone (Q) molecular triad leads to the formation of a charge-separated state C ·+– P – Q ·− with an overall quantum yield of 0.044 in benzonitrile solution. Photoinduced electron transfer from the porphyrin first excited singlet state gives C – P ·+– Q ·− with a quantum yield of ~1.0. However, electron transfer from the carotenoid to the porphyrin radical cation to form the final state does not compete well with charge recombination of C – P ·+– Q ·−, reducing the yield. The related pentad C 3– P – Q features carotenoid, porphyrin and quinone moieties closely related to those in the triad. Excitation of this molecule gives a C ·+– P ( C 2)– Q ·− state with a quantum yield of 0.073. The enhanced yield is ascribed to the fact that three electron donation pathways operating in parallel compete with charge recombination. The yield does not increase by the statistically predicted factor of three owing to small differences in thermodynamic driving force between the two compounds.
Further Studies on the Oxidation State of Iron in μ-Oxo Dimeric Phthalocyanine Complexes
Authors: NEMYKIN V. N. , CHERNII V. YA. , VOLKOV S. V. , BUNDINA N. I. , KALIYA O. L. , LI V. D. , LUKYANETS E. A.
Published: September 2002

The reaction with sodium cyanide of the μ-oxo-bridged complex of tetra-4-tert-butyl-substituted iron phthalocyanine (form ‘690’) and that of the product of its treatment with organic bases such as Py, Im, etc. (form ‘627’) result in the formation of the same ferrous bis-cyanide complex Na2[ PctFeII( CN )2] which can be readily oxidized to the analogous ferric complex Na [ PctFeIII( CN )2]. Form ‘690’ has been oxidized to the corresponding ferric μ-oxo complex (form ‘630’). Data for all μ-oxo-bridged complexes (chemical behavior; electronic, NMR, Mössbauer, X-ray photoelectron and ESR spectra; magnetic susceptibility) are discussed, and based on them, the following structures are proposed: ( HPctFeII)2O (form ‘690’), H2[( LPctFeII)2O ] (form ‘627’) and ( PctFeIII)2O (form ‘630’).
The materials chemistry of porphyrins and metalloporphyrins
Authors: SUSLICK KENNETH S. , RAKOW NEAL A. , KOSAL MARGARET E. , CHOU JUNG-HONG
Published: September 2002

Porphyrins and metalloporphyrins provide an extremely versatile nanometer-sized building block for the control of materials properties. Films, solids and microporous solids have been explored as field-responsive materials (i.e. interactions with applied electric, magnetic or electromagnetic fields) and as ‘chemo-responsive’ materials (i.e. interactions with other chemical species as sensors or for selective binding or catalysis).
Triplet porphyrins as donors in intramolecular electron transfer and their intermolecular interaction with free radicals
Authors: BLANK A. , GALILI T. , LEVANON H.
Published: September 2002

Porphyrins and related compounds are basic moieties which upon photoexcitation produce paramagnetic transients important to many processes in biology, material science and light–energy conversion. This short review demonstrates the application of time-resolved EPR spectroscopy to two processes in which the photoexcited singlet and/or triplet are involved: (1) intramolecular electron transfer in photoexcited donor–acceptor systems embedded in liquid crystals, where the porphyrins are the electron donors attached to different types of acceptors; and (2) intermolecular magnetic interactions between photoexcited porphyrin triplets and free radicals. In both systems the electron spin plays an important part with regards to the route of the magnetic interactions involved.
Assignment of the optical spectrum of metal porphyrin and phthalocyanine radical anions
Authors: MACK JOHN , STILLMAN MARTIN J.
Published: September 2002

The approach developed previously to assign the major π → π* and π* → π* bands in the optical spectra of metallophthalocyanine radical species [ MPc (−n)](n−2)−(n = 1–6), which was based on spectral band deconvolution analyses of the UV-vis absorption and magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectra and ZINDO calculations, is reviewed in this paper and extended to the major bands observed in the spectrum of the zinc tetraphenylporphyrin radical anion [ ZnTPP (−3)]−. The magnetic circular dichroism spectrum is dominated by an intense pseudo A term associated with the B (or Soret) transition with bands at 445 and 465 nm. Weaker bands associated with the π* → π* transition out of the partially filled LUMO give rise to two widely separated, oppositely signed, coupled B terms in the MCD spectrum at 538 and 910 nm. The Q transition is assigned to a weak absorption band at 750 nm and a shoulder slightly to the blue at 728 nm.
Applying marketing channel theory to food marketing in developing countries: Vertical disintegration model for horticultural marketing channels in kenya
Authors: Dijkstra Tjalling , Meulenberg Matthew , van Tilburg Aad
Published: September 2002

This article shows that marketing channel theory, which has been extensively applied in developed countries, can also be of great value to the developing world. Notably, the channel approach makes it possible to explain the number of trade levels observed in food marketing systems. We propose here a vertical disintegration model for horticultural marketing channels in Kenya. It contains one dependent variable (the degree of vertical disintegration of a channel) and five independent variables (the population size of the market center served by the channel, the population density of the rural hinterland of that market center, the transport time from farm to market center, the turnover of the retailer involved, and the keeping quality of the commodity traded). Binomial and multinomial logit analyses show that the probability of encountering a more disintegrated horticultural marketing channel increases when the market center has more inhabitants, when the center's rural hinterland is more densely populated, and when the transport to the center takes more time. The probability of encountering a less disintegrated channel increases when the retailer in the channel has a larger turnover and when the traded commodity is a leafy vegetable. [EconLit classification: L190 market structure) © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Novel heterozygous missense mutation in the platelet glycoprotein Ibβ gene associated with isolated giant platelet disorder
Authors: Kunishima Shinji , Naoe Tomoki , Kamiya Tadashi , Saito Hidehiko
Published: September 2002

The glycoprotein (GP) Ib/IX/V complex plays an important role in primary hemostasis, serving as the platelet receptor for von Willebrand factor (vWF). Recent studies have shown that the phenotype caused by mutations in the subunits of the GPIb/IX complex spans a wide spectrum; from the normal phenotype, to isolated giant platelet disorders (GPD), and to the full‐blown bleeding disorder, the Bernard‐Soulier syndrome (BSS). We characterize here a novel missense mutation of the GPIbβ gene associated with isolated GPD. In the patient's platelets, the expression level of the GPIb/IX complex was moderately reduced compared with that of the GPIIb/IIIa complex, whereas the latter was expressed at higher levels than in a normal control. Immunoblot analysis showed normal electrophoretic mobility of GPIbα, GPIbβ, and GPIX. However, the amount of GPIbβ was approximately 66% of the normal value. DNA sequencing analysis revealed a novel heterozygous missense mutation in the GPIbβ gene that converts Arg (CGC) to Cys (TGC) at residue 17. Transient transfection studies demonstrated that mutant GPIbβ protein was not detected in transfected 293T cells. These findings indicated that null expression of the abnormal GPIbβ causes decreased expression of the complex and results in the GPD phenotype in the patient, and suggested that homozygosity of the mutation may lead to a BSS phenotype in vivo. Am. J. Hematol. 68:249–255, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Localized herpes simplex lymphadenitis mimicking large‐cell (Richter's) transformation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma
Authors: Joseph Lija , Scott Margie A. , Schichman Steven A. , Zent Clive S.
Published: September 2002

We report a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) who presented with rapid enlargement of a cervical lymph node due to localized herpes simplex lymphadenitis, which was clinically indistinguishable from large cell (Richter's) transformation. The diagnosis was made by excisional lymph node biopsy, which demonstrated CLL/SLL and zonal necrosis due to herpes simplex infection. The herpetic zone was surrounded by a brisk proliferation of immunoblasts. This case demonstrates the need for excisional biopsy and histologic examination of rapidly enlarging nodes in patients with CLL/SLL. The diagnosis of herpes simplex lymphadenitis in patients with CLL/SLL is especially important because, unlike large cell transformation, the infection usually responds well to treatment. Am. J. Hematol. 68:287–291, 2001. Published 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lack of allelic exclusion and isotype switching in B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Katayama Yuta , Sakai Akira , Katsutani Shinya , Takimoto Yasuo , Kimura Akiro
Published: September 2002

Two rearranged bands of the IgH gene were detected in a case with B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B‐CLL). The expressed VH gene was only VH1 with no somatic mutations in IgM and IgD. The expressions of Cμ, Cδ, and Cγ were detected by reverse transcription of RNA followed by the polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Sequence analysis of the CDR3 regions of each PCR reaction product showed that the sequence of one rearranged allele was identical to those of the expressed VH1 gene, Cμ and Cδ, and the sequence of another rearranged allele was identical to that of Cγ. However, none of the expressed VH genes was detected in IgG. These findings suggest that this is a case of B‐CLL lacking allelic exclusion and undergoing a class switch of one allele with the incomplete expression of the VH gene. Am. J. Hematol. 68:295–297, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Randomized controlled trial of intravenous immunoglobulin versus oral prednisolone in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy
Authors: Hughes Richard , Bensa Siân , Willison Hugh , Van Den Bergh Peter , Comi Giancarlo , Illa Isabel , Nobile‐Orazio Eduardo , Van Doorn Pieter , Dalakas Marinos , Bojar Martin , Swan Anthony ,   Inflammatory Neuropathy Cause and Treatment (INCAT) Group
Published: September 2002

This multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, crossover trial compared a 6 week course of oral prednisolone tapering from 60 mg to 10 mg daily with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) 2.0 g/kg given over 1 to 2 days for treating chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). Twenty‐four of the thirty‐two randomized patients completed both treatment periods. Both treatments produced significant improvements in the primary outcome measure, change in an 11‐point disability scale 2 weeks after randomization. There was slightly, but not significantly, more improvement after IVIg than with prednisolone, the mean difference between the groups in change in disability grade being 0.16 (95% CI = –0.35 to 0.66). There were also slightly, but not significantly, greater improvements favoring IVIg in the secondary outcome measures: time to walk 10 meters after 2 weeks and improvement in disability grade after 6 weeks. Results may have been biased against IVIg by the 8 patients who did not complete the second arm of the trial. A serious adverse event (psychosis) attributable to treatment occurred in 1 patient while on prednisolone and in none with IVIg.
Adult neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis with palmitoyl‐protein thioesterase deficiency: First adult‐onset patients of a childhood disease
Authors: Van Diggelen Otto P. , Thobois Stephane , Tilikete Caroline , Zabot Marie‐Thérèse , Keulemans Joke L. M. , Van Bunderen Patrick A. , Taschner Peter E. M. , Losekoot Monique , Voznyi Yakov V.
Published: September 2002

The fluorogenic enzyme assay for palmitoyl‐protein thioesterase (PPT) has greatly facilitated the diagnosis of infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (Santavuori‐Haltia disease) and the search for possible new variants with atypical clinical presentation. Here, we present the first cases of adult neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis with onset in the fourth decade of life due to a profound deficiency of PPT. The causative mutations in the CLN1 gene were the known, deleterious mutation R151X and the novel missense mutation G108R. Patients presented at onset (31 and 38 years), with psychiatric symptoms only. At present (ages 56 and 54 years), visual, verbal, and cognitive losses have progressed and both patients have cerebellar ataxia and cannot walk without support.
Effect of the oxidation conditions on the maghemites produced by laser pyrolysis
Authors: Veintemillas‐Verdaguer S. , Morales M. P. , Serna C. J.
Published: September 2002

Pure γ − Fe2O3 particles were continuously prepared by a continuous wave CO2 laser‐induced pyrolysis of iron pentacarbonyl vapour in an oxidizing atmosphere. Two different oxidation procedures were investigated: (1) air–argon mixtures were employed to fill the apparatus; (2) air–ethylene mixtures were employed as carrier gas. The powders were identified by X‐ray diffraction. The grain size was measured using transmission electron microscopy and the degree of order was estimated by IR spectroscopy. The products obtained have grain sizes in the range 4 to 17 nm and different degrees of structural order depending on the synthesis conditions. The productivities attained are typically 0.05 gh−1. Finally, the magnetic properties of the maghemite powders are discussed. It seems that, for very small magnetic particles, the actual differences in the sizes of the particles are less important than differences in crystallinity with regard to the magnetic properties of the samples. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thin films of nanomaterials made using intense cluster beams
Authors: Eastham D. A. , Kirkman I. W. , Denby P. M.
Published: September 2002

Thin films of material containing embedded nanocrystals in the size range from 1.5 to 6 nm have been manufactured using intense cluster beams. A description of the equipment is given, as well as its measured performance. Measurements of the morphology of the material have been made directly using transmission electron microscopy and, indirectly, with SQUID magnetometry. These measurements are consistent with the hypothesis that the material consists of approximately spherical nanocrystals embedded in a matrix. X‐ray diffraction measurements have established that the grain size of the matrix material is reduced considerably in these materials. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characteristics of the uterine luminal surface epithelium at preovulatory and preimplantation stages in the marmoset monkey
Authors: Niklaus Andrea Louise , Murphy Christopher Raymond , Lopata Alexander
Published: September 2002

Light and electron microscopy was used to examine the apical luminal epithelial surface of the uterus at preovulatory and preimplantation stages in the marmoset monkey. Luminal surface charge, detected by cationic ferritin staining, progressively decreased from preovulation to day 11 of pregnancy. The smooth, regular apical plasma membrane at preovulatory stages was in contrast to the convoluted, irregular surface observed during early pregnancy, especially at 1 day before blastocyst implantation. Profiles of microvilli were also altered, becoming thicker and more irregular during early pregnancy. Within the epithelial cell body, cyclic morphologic changes were seen, largely in association with secretory organelles. Giant phagocytic bodies were prominent at all stages examined, although their composition and intensity of staining varied throughout the cycle. Weak to moderate estrogen alpha and progesterone receptor immunostaining of the luminal epithelium was found during preovulatory and early pregnancy stages. This study describes complex cyclic changes in the morphology and biochemical make‐up of the uterine luminal epithelial surface in a New World monkey in preparation for blastocyst attachment. Anat Rec 264:82–92, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Basic and clinical neuroscience applications of embryonic stem cells
Authors: Gökhan Şölen , Mehler Mark F.
Published: September 2002

There have been recent dramatic advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing the elaboration of mature tissue‐specific cellular subpopulations from embryonic stem (ES) cells. These investigations have generated a range of new biological and potential therapeutic reagents to allow us to dissect specific stages of mammalian development that were previously experimentally inaccessible. Ultimately, we will be able to reconstitute seminal signaling pathways to promote regeneration of the nervous system. Totipotent ES cells possess an unlimited proliferative capacity that make them attractive candidates for use in a series of innovative transplantation paradigms. Elucidation of the molecular and physiologic properties of ES cells also has important implications for our understanding of the integrative cellular processes underlying neural induction, patterning of the neural tube, neural lineage restriction and commitment, neuronal differentiation, regional neuronal subtype specification, and the specific pathological consequences of alterations in discrete components of these fundamental neurodevelopmental pathways. In addition, recent experimental observations suggest that neurodegenerative disease pathology may involve alterations in a range of progressive neural inductive and neurodevelopmental events through novel biological mechanisms that result in sublethal impairments in cellular homeostasis within evolving regional neuronal precursor populations containing the mutant proteins, culminating in increased vulnerability of their differentiated neuronal progeny to late‐onset apoptosis. Future discoveries in ES cell research will offer unique conceptual and therapeutic perspectives that representing an alternative to neural stem cell therapeutic strategies for ameliorating the pathologic consequences of a broad range of genetic and acquired insults to the developing, adult, and aging brain. Evolving regenerative strategies for both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases will likely involve the targeting of vulnerable regional neural precursor populations during “presymptomatic” clinicopathological stages prior to the occurrence of irrevocable neural cell injury and cell death. Anat Rec (New Anat) 265:142–156, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Purification and characterization of protein phosphatase‐1 from two cold–hardy goldenrod gall insects
Authors: Pfister Thomas D. , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: September 2002

The catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase‐1 (PP‐1) was purified to homogeneity from final instar larvae (the overwintering stage) of freeze avoiding (Epiblema scudderiana) and freeze tolerant (Eurosta solidaginis) cold‐hardy insects. Arrhenius plots showed that activity of PP‐1 from both species was strongly suppressed at low temperature. Acidic shifts in pH optima and increased inhibition by okadaic acid were also observed when the enzymes were assayed at 4°C compared with 24°C. The data identify multiple ways by which PP‐1 can be inhibited at low temperature and this inhibition appears to be key to sustaining high glycogen phosphorylase activity in support of polyol synthesis at low temperatures. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 49:56–64, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Juvenile hormone catabolism and oviposition in the codling moth, Cydia pomonella, as functions of age, mating status, and hormone treatment
Authors: Cole Tracey J. , Ramaswamy Sonny B. , Srinivasan Asoka , Dorn Silvia
Published: September 2002

In vitro catabolism of juvenile hormone (JH) in haemolymph of adult female Cydia pomonella was ascribed mainly to juvenile hormone esterase (JHE) activity. No significant differences were noted between virgin and mated females 0–96 h post‐emergence. Changes in JHE activity did not appear dependent upon fluctuations in JH titre; conversely, changes in JHE activity could not explain the changes in JH titres. Maximal JHE activity was recorded at 24 h (331.47 ± 47.25 pmol/h/μl; 355.93 ± 36.68 pmol/h/μl, virgin; mated insects, respectively) and preceded the peak in JH titres at 48 h. Topical application of JH II (10 ng–10 μg) or fenoxycarb (50 ng) enhanced JHE activity up to 640 and 56%, respectively. Treatment upon emergence with 10 μg JH II induced enzymic activity for less than 24 h, and when 10 μg JH II or 50 ng fenoxycarb were applied, circulating JH titres returned to control levels within 24 h. Oviposition was highly sensitive to exogenous JH and declined significantly with dosages >100 pg. To allow a degree of oocyte maturation before JH treatment, the hormone was administered at 6, 12, 24, or 48 h post‐emergence and/or females were mated. Neither measure “protected” the system; oviposition declined immediately after JH application. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 49:10–21, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
FMRFamide‐like material in the earwig, Euborellia annulipes, and its functional significance
Authors: Rankin Susan M. , Seymour Shannon M.
Published: September 2002

The neurosecretory system of the earwig, Euborellia annulipes, contained material similar to that of FMRFamide, as shown by immunocytochemistry. Within the brain were two pairs of darkly staining perikarya in the medial protocerebrum, and up to four pairs of immunoreactive cells in the lateral protocerebrum. The corpora allata appeared immunoreactive in 10‐day females, but not in 2‐day‐old adults. Additionally, immunoreactive material was detected in midgut endocrine cells of both 2‐ and 10‐day‐old females. FMRFamide at 1 to 100 nM did not inhibit juvenile hormone production by earwig corpora allata in vitro. This was true of glands of low activity from 2‐day cat food–fed or starved virgin females, 10‐day starved females, and those of relatively high activity from 10‐day‐old, cat food–fed females. In contrast, FMRFamide at 50 and 100 (but not at 1) nM stimulated gut motility in vitro in distended guts from 2‐day fed females. Preparations from starved females and those from 10‐day fed females (in which feeding behavior is on the decline) did not respond to exogenous FMRFamide with enhanced rates of contraction. Lastly, preparations from females starved for 7 days and subsequently fed for 3 days responded to 10 nM FMRFamide with increases in gut motility. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 47:189–197, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Developmental roles of platelet‐derived growth factors
Authors: Betsholtz Christer , Karlsson Linda , Lindahl Per
Published: September 2002

Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) was originally identified in platelets and in serum as a mitogen for fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells (SMC) and glia cells in culture. PDGF has since expanded to a family of dimers of at least four gene products, whose biological actions are mediated through two receptor tyrosine kinases, PDGFRs. The present review summarizes and discusses the biological functions of PDGFs and PDGFRs in developmental processes, mainly as revealed through genetic analysis in mice. Such studies have demonstrated multiple critical roles of PDGFs and PDGFRs in embryonic and postnatal development. PDGFs seem to act upon specific populations of progenitor cells that give rise to several different cell types with distinct functions in a variety of developmental processes. Analogies are seen between the cell functions and the developmental processes controlled by PDGFs. This suggests that ancestral PDGF and PDGFR expression patterns and functions may have been iterated in related sets of morphogenetic processes in the course of evolution. BioEssays 23:494–507, 2001. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Breaking barriers—provision and participation in an out‐of‐school centre
Authors: Mayall Berry , Hood Suzanne
Published: September 2002

This paper uses a research and development project – the A Space project in Hackney – as an exemplar for discussion of policy and practice issues arising from the recent expansion of out‐of‐school child care and study support services. In particular, the authors explore children's participation rights and multi‐agency working, two key principles upon which A Space is based. The paper suggests that current government out‐of‐school policy raises key questions about the siting, staffing, coordination and costs of future services; and that underlying these are more fundamental questions about: how children should be spending their time; and whose perspectives on this should be taken into account. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stereoselective degradation of metalaxyl and metalaxyl‐M in soil and sunflower plants
Authors: Marucchini C. , Zadra C.
Published: September 2002

A high proportion of agrochemicals are chiral compounds. Since stereoisomers often show different biological and physiological properties, the biological and metabolic responses to these compounds and their fate in the environment are expected to be different. In this work we investigate a possible stereo and/or enantioselective degradation in soil and plants (sunflower) of the fungicide Metalaxyl (rac‐Metalaxyl) and the new compound Metalaxyl‐M ((−)‐(R)‐Metalaxyl) and propose procedures for extraction, cleanup, chromatographic separation of enantiomers, and determination of the R : S ratio by using an HPLC chiral column. The degradation of the two stereoisomers of Metalaxyl proved to be enantioselective and dependent on the media: the (+)‐(S)‐enantiomer showed a faster degradation in plants, while the (−)‐(R)‐enantiomer showed a faster degradation in soil. In this study there was no evidence that racemization of Metalaxyl‐M took place either in soil or in sunflowers. Chirality 14:32–38, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of an improved automated gas‐chromatographic chiral analysis system: Application to non‐natural amino acids and natural protein hydrolysates
Authors: Nokihara Kiyoshi , Gerhardt Jürgen
Published: September 2002

In the use of combinatorial chemistry as a novel strategy for drug discovery, the chirality assessment of building blocks used for library construction is particularly important in the evaluation of biological actions of generated libraries. The procedure for chiral analysis of lead compounds in screening may be of a high priority, particularly in the case of the protection of intellectual rights. Previously, an automated amino acid analysis system using enantiomer labeling was developed. The system incorporates a reactor, which allows automated esterification and acylation of amino acids, and is connected to an on‐line gas chromatographic system. A capillary column coated with a chiral phase is employed for the separation of the enantiomers. This particular system is improved with a newly constructed “high‐throughput auto‐derivatizer” in combination with a new GC‐system. The resulting data can be processed by newly constructed software. The analyses of amino acid derivatives or hydrolysates of proteins and peptides are carried out routinely within ca. 45 min, including derivatization. Using this system several non‐natural amino acids were tested with respect to the stereoisomeric configuration. In addition, acid hydrolysates of food proteins and tissues obtained by autopsy were analyzed as an application to proteome research. Chirality 13:431–434, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Some applications of a chiral fluorometric reagent, (S)‐TBMB carboxylic acid
Authors: Meguro Hiroshi , Kim Jeong‐Hwan , Bai Chen , Nishida Yoshihiro , Ohrui Hiroshi
Published: September 2002

Molecular design and applications of a fluorometric chiral agent, (S)‐TBMB carboxylic acid, are briefly reviewed. The agent, possessing an asymmetric 1,3‐benzodioxole skeleton, was designed as a novel class of chiral agent that functions also as a benzoate chromophore for exciton chirality CD methods. The utility of this agent has been demonstrated in an application to determine enantiomeric amino acids, acyl‐sn‐glycerols, glycosyl‐sn‐glycerols, and other chiral alcohols and amines. Chirality 13:441–445, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The deep mesencephalic nucleus as an output center of basal ganglia: Morphological and electrophysiological similarities with the substantia nigra
Authors: Rodríguez Manuel , Abdala Patricio , Barroso‐Chinea Pedro , González‐Hernández Tomas
Published: September 2002

The deep mesencephalic nucleus (DMN) is a large midbrain reticular region between the superior colliculus, the substantia nigra compacta, the periaqueductal gray, and the medial geniculate body. Although some data suggest that it is involved in nociception and visceral control, its functions remain unclear. In the present study, by using morphological (combination of anterograde and retrograde tracers with immunocytochemistry and in situ hibrydization) and electrophysiological (firing activity and transynaptic response to striatal stimulation) methods, we show that a subpopulation of DMN cells shares many morphological and electrophysiological characteristics with those of the substantia nigra reticulata (SNR). These similarities include the following: 1) firing rate, firing pattern, and conduction velocity; 2) expression of GAD65, GAD67, and PV; 3) excitatory and inhibitory inputs from the striatum; and 4) projections to the ventral thalamus, superior colliculus, and pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus. Some differences were also found. In comparison with SN, DMN cells and striatal afferents are more sparsely distributed and they show conspicuous contralateral projections to the thalamus and superior colliculus. This suggests that, similarly to the SNR, the DMN acts as an output center of basal ganglia and probably facilitates the inter‐hemispheric regulation of these centers. J. Comp. Neurol. 438:12–31, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A mixed finite element for plate bending with eight enhanced strain modes
Authors: Piltner Reinhard , Joseph Deepu S.
Published: September 2002

A low‐order thick and thin plate bending element is derived using bilinear approximations for the transverse deflection, the two rotations and the thickness change. The stress–strain relationships from three‐dimensional elasticity are used without any modifications. In order to avoid locking and to improve the accuracy of the results eight enhanced strain modes are used. For an efficient implementation of the mixed element, orthogonal stress and strain functions are utilized. Although the element is a low‐order finite element the numerical results for a series of standard test problems are excellent. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radiologically guided percutaneous fine‐needle aspiration biopsy of pelvic and retroperitoneal masses: A retrospective study of 68 cases
Authors: Guo Ziwen , Kurtycz Daniel F.I. , De Las Casas Luis E. , Hoerl H. Daniel
Published: September 2002

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) of the pelvis and retroperitoneum (excluding the pancreas, kidney, and adrenal masses) has not achieved its full potential as a diagnostic modality. We reviewed 68 percutaneous, radiologically guided FNAs from these locations to assess the clinical utility and complication rate of this procedure. Satisfactory material was obtained in 66 cases (97.1%), of which 37 were deemed positive (55%), 3 suspicious (4%), 4 atypical (6%), and 22 negative (32%) for malignancy; two cases (3%) were unsatisfactory. Compared to biopsy (36 patients) and clinical information, the sensitivity and specificity of FNA for malignancy were 90.2% and 100%, respectively, yielding a positive predictive value of 100% and a negative predictive value of 86.6%. The four false‐negative cases (5.9%) were due to sampling error. One patient had a minor complication (hematoma) from the procedure. We conclude that FNA is the procedure of choice for detecting most malignancies in these two locations. Diagn. Cytopathol. 25:43–49, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ready, willing and able to change: motivational aspects of the assessment and treatment of eating disorders
Authors: Treasure Janet , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: September 2002

This paper focuses on motivational aspects in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders. Measurement issues and therapeutic implications are reviewed as will be the limitations of the motivational model. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
The dominance of dispersion in the evolution of bed material waves in gravel‐bed rivers
Authors: Lisle Thomas E. , Cui Yantao , Parker Gary , Pizzuto James E. , Dodd Annjanette M.
Published: September 2002

Bed material waves are temporary zones of sediment accumulation created by large sediment inputs. Recent theoretical, experimental and field studies examine factors influencing dispersion and translation of bed material waves in quasi‐uniform, gravel‐bed channels. Exchanges of sediment between a channel and its floodplain are neglected. Within these constraints, two factors influence relative rates of dispersion and translation: (1) interactions between wave topography, flow and bed load transport; and (2) particle‐size differences between wave material and original bed material. Our results indicate that dispersion dominates the evolution of bed material waves in gravel‐bed channels. Significant translation requires a low Froude number, which is uncharacteristic of gravel‐bed channels, and low wave amplitude which, for a large wave, can be achieved only after substantial dispersion. Wave material of small particle size can promote translation, but it primarily increases bed load transport rate and thereby accelerates wave evolution. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An improved automatic analyzer for organic compounds in water based on headspace solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) coupled to gas chromatography
Authors: Belau Eckhard , Grote Christoph , Spiekermann Manfred , Levsen Karsten
Published: September 2002

An automated analyzer based on solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) coupled to gas chromatography (GC) for monitoring organic compounds in water is presented. The instrumental setup, which was tested previously with direct SPME, is now tested in the headspace mode. Memory effects observed in the earlier design were reduced by using glass instead of plastic tubing. Parameters that potentially influence the extraction yield were studied in the laboratory with the use of spiked water samples. These parameters were temperature, salt content, methanol content, pH value, and excess components. The extraction efficiency as a function of the extraction time (absorption profiles) was determined for 24 standard compounds. The method was validated in the laboratory. Good precision (in general <5%) and linearity were observed. With the use of flame ionization, detection limits of quantitation were in the low‐ppb range, sufficient for wastewater monitoring. The instrument was tested continuously for 6 days at the wastewater plant of a chemical company in northern Germany. Better stability and robustness were observed in the headspace SPME compared to the direct SPME. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Field Analyt Chem Technol 5: 37–49, 2001
A linear forecasting model and its application to economic data
Authors: Peters Georg
Published: September 2002

We present a forecasting model based on fuzzy pattern recognition and weighted linear regression. In this model fuzzy pattern recognition is used to find homogeneous fuzzy classes in a heterogeneous data set. It is assumed that the classes represent typical situations. For each class a weighted regression analysis is conducted. The forecasting results obtained by the class regression analysis are aggregated to obtain the ‘overall’ estimation of the regression model. We apply the model to the forecasting of economic data of the USA. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Misspecified prediction for time series
Authors: Choi In‐Bong , Taniguchi Masanobu
Published: September 2002

Let {Xt} be a stationary process with spectral density g(λ).It is often that the true structure g(λ) is not completely specified. This paper discusses the problem of misspecified prediction when a conjectured spectral density fθ(λ), θ∈Θ, is fitted to g(λ). Then, constructing the best linear predictor based on fθ(λ), we can evaluate the prediction error M(θ). Since θ is unknown we estimate it by a quasi‐MLE $\hat{\theta}_{Q}$. The second‐order asymptotic approximation of $M(\hat{\theta}_{Q})$ is given. This result is extended to the case when Xt contains some trend, i.e. a time series regression model. These results are very general. Furthermore we evaluate the second‐order asymptotic approximation of $M(\hat{\theta}_{Q})$ for a time series regression model having a long‐memory residual process with the true spectral density g(λ). Since the general formulae of the approximated prediction error are complicated, we provide some numerical examples. Then we illuminate unexpected effects from the misspecification of spectra. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.