bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serodiagnosis of Brucellosis in Patients with Fever of Unknown Origin at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangalore: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Devi DR Gayathri , Thygaraj Vijayashree , Prathab AG , Kumar BS Nanda , Soujanya Betu Rama
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. Although it is not commonly transmitted between humans, it can be transmitted through direct handling of cattle or their products, such as raw milk, unevenly heated milk, clotted cream, and cheese, for varying periods. Brucellosis is considered as one of the neglected zoonotic diseases worldwide, as it can cause debilitating acute infections and later become chronic with numerous complications. Aim: To determine the prevalence of brucellosis among patients with Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (PUO). Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology at Ramaiah Medical College and Teaching Hospital in Bangalore, Karnataka, India, over a period of two years, from December 2019 to December 2021. The study included patients who visited the Outpatient Department (OPD) and those admitted to the hospital with fever persisting for more than 5-7 days and Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO). The total sample size was 180, and 5-10 ml of blood was collected from each patient under aseptic precautions from the median cubital vein for serological tests. The blood samples were stored at 2-8°C for the Rose Bengal Test (RBT) assay and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The demographic parameters considered included clinical history, age, gender, residency, and history of animal exposure. Data analysis was performed using the statistical software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 18.0, employing the Chi-Square test, Fisher’s-Exact test, and descriptive statistics. The significance level employed was set at p-value <0.05. Results: Among 180 samples, six (i.e., 3.3%) were positive for the Brucella RBT (BRBT), while 11 (i.e., 6.1%) were positive for the (ELISA IgM), and 17 (i.e., 9.4%) were positive for the (ELISA IgG). Additionally, 22 samples (i.e., 12.22%) tested positive for either ELISA of IgG or IgM (ELISA IgG/IgM). Conclusion: The present study identified 22 patients (12.22%) with Brucella-positive cases who presented with various clinical signs and symptoms, originating from different geographical locations and regardless of gender. These findings suggest that all cases of FUO presented to a clinician should be evaluated for Brucella infection.
Clinical and Microbiological Spectrum of Invasive Trichosporonosis at a Tertiary Care Institute: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Sudhaharan Sukanya , Pamidimukkala Umabala , Sundarapu Naga Appala Raju
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Invasive trichosporonosis was considered rare in the past decades, but it has emerged as an opportunistic pathogen causing invasive infections in immunocompromised patients. It can colonise various parts of the body, and it is important to differentiate between colonisation and infection. Moreover, knowledge of the epidemiology and risk factors associated with the disease is limited. Its inherent resistance to echinocandins poses a therapeutic challenge in treating patients. If not treated appropriately, it may lead to disseminated infections. Aim: To understand the clinical and microbiological spectrum of infections caused by Trichosporon spp. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology at Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India for a peroid of one year period from January 2019 to December 2019. The study analysed demographic data such as age, sex, risk factors, clinical features, microbiological diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes related to invasive trichosporonosis from the case records. The final sample size was 14 cases. Samples were processed for both aerobic and fungal cultures. The samples were inoculated into Chromogenic agar plates (bioMeriux), 5% sheep blood agar plates (bioMeriux), and Sabouraud dextrose agar. The plates were incubated at 37°C for 48 hours. Culture identification was performed using the Vitek® 2 compact system with the yeast panel YST, and antifungal susceptibility was determined by Broth Microdilution (BMD). Descriptive statistics were used for analysis, and categorical data were described as frequencies with percentages. The data was entered into a Microsoft Excel sheet and analysed using Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 20.0. Results: During the study period, there were 14 cases of invasive trichosporonosis. The predominant age group was 60-70 years. Risk factors included the administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics in 13 (92.8%) of patients, followed by prolonged Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay in 8 (57.1%) of the patients. Trichosporon spp. were isolated from urine in 10 (71.4%) cases, blood in 2 (14.2%) cases, and tissue in 2 (14.2%) cases. Trichosporon asahii was the predominant species isolated in 12 (85.7%) patients. All isolates were sensitive to voriconazole and amphotericin B. Mortality was reported in 5 (35.7%) of the patients. Conclusion: In present study, Trichosporon spp. was predominantly isolated from urine in the majority of patients. The pathogen was isolated from patients with various risk factors. Hence, proper identification of the pathogen, understanding its clinical significance, and determining antifungal susceptibility would aid in the appropriate management of patients.
A Multifunctional Perspective to Explain the Survival of Neglected Plants: The Case of the Sweet Potato in Benin
Authors: Hounkpatin Olaïgbé , Moumouni-Moussa Ismaïl
Published: January 2024

Neglected crops have great potential to improve agricultural diversity and contribute to food security. In Benin, sweet potato is one of these crops that is still not widely adopted. Although the benefits of sweet potato are widely known, it is only grown on small areas in Benin. This study aims to analyze the rationale behind farmers' decisions to allocate land for sweet potato production. 320 farmers were interviewed in Gogounou and Boukoumbé in North Benin. Data were analyzed using chi² tests and a structural equation model. Quotations were used to illustrate the findings. Farmers' individual characteristics, perceptions of the crop, its production and the benefits they expect from it, have a significant influence on the decision to allocate land to sweet potato cultivation. Thus, farmers grow sweet potato because it fulfils a food and/or commercial function. However, due to the neglect of agricultural policies, the sector is plagued by challenges that their low level of knowledge does not allow them to meet. To deal with the uncertainties, farmers are implementing risk mitigation strategies that lead them to limit the area sown. The survival of a neglected plant can be explained by its importance as a food source for the communities. However, in order to increase acreage and scale up, the plant must also fulfil a commercial function.
Advances in Neural Networks for Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: Yang Xinyi , Chen Fenxiao
Published: January 2024

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are rapidly changing the landscape of the pharmaceutical industry. Their unique capabilities, including collective computing, adaptive learning, and fault tolerance, make them ideal for tackling complex challenges in drug discovery, analysis, and personalized medicine. This article summarizes the latest research progress in ANNs for pharmacy, highlighting breakthroughs in areas like QSAR modeling for drug design, pharmacokinetic prediction, and optimization of pharmaceutical preparations. With their immense potential to accelerate drug development, improve drug efficacy, and personalize healthcare, ANNs are poised to revolutionize the future of pharmaceuticals.
The Effect of the Concept Map Model on Students' Ability to Write Explanatory Texts for Class Vii Smp N 7 Jambi City
Authors: Aisy Salsabila Rohadatul , Budiyono Herman , Priyanto
Published: January 2024

The concept map model is an innovative learning model that has been empirically proven to have a positive impact on student learning outcomes. This research aims to determine the effect of implementing the concept map learning model on students' ability to write explanatory texts. This research used a quasi-experiment, which was carried out by comparing two classes that were given different treatments, namely the experimental class and the control class. The sample in this study consisted of 64 class VII students, consisting of classes VII C and VII G. Class VII C was the control class, namely the class that used the conventional learning model. The data analysis technique was carried out using SPSS, which aims to test the research hypothesis that has been determined. Meanwhile, the difference in average learning outcomes for writing explanatory texts in the control class and the experimental class was tested using the t-test. Complete data analysis was carried out in 3 stages, namely describing the data, prerequisite/preliminary analysis, and hypothesis testing. The results of this research show that the concept map learning model has a positive effect on students' ability to write explanatory texts. The test results show a value of 0.00, which means less than 0.05 (P-Value/Sig= 0.00 <0.05). Thus, there is a significant difference in student learning outcome scores in the experimental class and the control class. Therefore, the application of the concept map learning model has a positive influence on students' learning outcomes in class VII explanatory texts at SMPN 7 Jambi City. The research has implications for the need to implement the concept map learning model in developing explanatory text writing skills for junior high school students in the future.
Effects of Land-use Systems and Depths on Organic Carbon Storage and Texture-related Properties of Soil at Umuahia, Nigeria
Authors: Amanze C. T.  , Oguike P. C.  , Eneje R. C.  , Ukabiala M. E.  , Onyechere A. U.
Published: January 2024

Soil condition as influenced by land use systems and depths is relevant in the efforts to optimize crop production. This research examines the effect of land-use systems and depths on organic carbon storage and texture-related properties of soil. It was a 2-factor factorial experiment laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD). The factors were land-use systems at four levels [arable farm land (AFL), 3 – years fallowed grassland (FGL), forest land (FL) and oil palm plantation (OP)] and depths at five levels (0 – 20, 20 – 40, 40 – 60, 60 – 80 and 80 – 100 cm). Twenty (4X5) treatments combinations were obtained and replicated nine (9) times. Soils were collected in a simple random sampling technic, and were prepared and analysed in the laboratory. Data generated was subjected to analysis of variance using GenStat software package version 14. The results showed that the lowest bulk density (BD) in range of 1.26 – 1.60 mg/kg were obtained under OP at 0 – 100 cm. The most rapid hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) in range of 3.62 – 1.90 cm/hr was obtained under AFL at 0 – 60 cm. The oil palm plantation had the highest range of organic carbon (OC) storage of 51.92 – 30.81 ton/ha at 0 – 40 cm, while at 40 – 100 cm, FL had the highest range of OC storage of 22.33 – 13.42 ton/ha. The undisturbed soils had higher OC storage and reduced BD at the various depths. Minimum tillage, cover cropping and shifting cultivation should be encouraged to enhance soil conditions for increased productivity.
Inter and Intra Row Weed and Its Effect: A Review
Authors: Balas P. R. , Pargi S. J. , Lakhani A. L. , Mehta T. D. , Bambhaniya V. U.
Published: January 2024

In India, One of the main biological barriers limiting crop output in India is weeds. Most crops are prone to weed infestation. Millions of weed seeds are present in most agricultural soils per hectare, and if weeds are not controlled, they substantially lower crop yields by competing with the crop for nutrients, light, and water. Pest weeds, in contrast to the majority of other agricultural weeds/pests, are perennial in all fields and necessitate some level of control in order to maximize crop yields and profitability. Weeds have the direct ability to lower crop yields, lower crop quality, and raise harvest expenses. Weed-related crop losses raise harvest expenses and result in lower yields and quality.
Assessment of Nutritional Status of Almajirai Children in Zamfara State, Nigeria
Authors: Tume Apityan , Kura Nasiru
Published: January 2024

The paper examined the nutritional status of almajirai children in Zamfara State, Nigeria. Almajirai (singular -almajiri) are children who have left their parents from rural areas in Nigeria or migrated from neighboring African countries to big cities in Northern Nigeria to undergo training in Islamic knowledge. As a result of poverty, these children do not receive any support from their families or government. In other to survive, they move from house to house or popular motor parks in major cities in Nigeria begging for food to eat. It is in the light of the above that the paper examines the nutritional status of almajirai children in Zamfara State, Nigeria. The sample size of the study consisted of 385 almajiri children. Anthropometric measurements were be used as the instruments of data collection. Data collected was analyzed using SPSS. The findings of the study indicated that there was no significant difference in the weight of Almajirai children across all the age categories. The hypothesis of the study showed that there was a significant difference between the almajiri children suffering from stunted growth, underweight and wastage in Zamfara State. The mean difference suggests that the malnutrition was more severe in Kaura Namoda than any other local government given that it has the highest mean difference of 1. 3618.  The paper concludes that an average almajiri child in Zamfara State is malnourished. The recommends that almajiri children should be included into the Federal Government school feeding programme so that they can have access to good nutritional food and formal education for a better future.
Genetic Evaluation of Recombinant Inbred Lines of Rice Derived from Swarna-Sub1 x AC 20431B for Yield Related Traits
Authors: Vaidya Nairita , Nayak Gyanisha , Parida Madhuchhanda , C. Parameswaran , Sharma R. S. , Verma Ramlakhan , Katara J. L. , Samantaray Sanghamitra , Sharma Stuti , Nema Sushma , Gaur V. S. , Kumar Aashish , Ramakrishnan R. Shiv
Published: January 2024

Submergence is the third most important abiotic stress hugely affecting yield and productivity in rice. There are many wild varieties and landraces available which are tolerant to submergence stress. These genotypes can be utilized as donors in different breeding programs. The population derived from such germplasms are subjected to genetic evaluation for yield and yield related attributes for development of lines that are high yielding as well as tolerant to submergence. The present investigation was executed in 120 Recombinant Inbred Lines (RIL) population (F10) derived from Swarna-Sub1 x AC 20431B along with four land races and Swarna-Sub1 to elucidate the association existing between yield and yield attributing characters. Apart from this, Correlation and path analysis was also employed to study direct and indirect effect on grain yield. Observations for agro-morphological traits such as days to 50% flowering, plant height, panicle length, total number of tillers, number of effective tillers per plant, number of filled grains and Spikelet fertility, test weight, grain yield per plant, biomass per plant and harvest index were recorded and analyzed for various variability parameters. Correlation and path coefficient analysis were also carried out. High heritability and genetic advance values were observed for days to 50% flowering, plant height, panicle length, total number of tillers per plant, effective tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, test weight, grain yield and biomass per plant. Among all the characters; filled grains per panicle, biomass and harvest index per plant showed significant correlation with grain yield. Effective number of tillers per plant has the highest positive direct effect on grain yield.
Unlocking the Benefits of Carbon Sequestration for Enhancing Soil Health
Authors: Pandao M. R. , Jejal Anand Dinesh , Shukla Er Prashant , Prabhumitrareddy S. , Rout Sandeep , Baral Kirttiranjan , Bhadani Megha
Published: January 2024

This abstract investigates the profound interconnection between carbon sequestration methods and soil health enhancement, crucial for sustainable land management. Evaluating various strategies, including cover cropping, reduced tillage, agroforestry, and biochar application, this study elucidates their role in augmenting soil organic carbon levels and fostering microbial diversity, thereby improving soil structure, water retention, nutrient cycling, and overall fertility. It examines the reciprocal impacts of carbon sequestration and soil health on agricultural yields, ecosystem resilience, and climate change mitigation. Furthermore, the research outlines barriers to widespread adoption, such as economic constraints and policy frameworks, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches and technological innovations. Overall, this study advocates integrating carbon sequestration practices into agricultural techniques as a pivotal step towards mitigating climate change and fortifying soil health for sustainable land use and resilient ecosystems.
Conflict Prevention in Sub-Regional Institutions: The Case Study of IGAD in Ethiopia from 2015-2020
Authors: M. G. Seble , Kewir Kiven James
Published: January 2024

Conflict prevention is the primary objective of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD). Despite efforts made by the institution, it has, however, not succeeded in preventing conflict in Ethiopia. IGAD, like other sub-regional institutions in Africa, has established an early warning early response mechanism and a Mediation Support Unit that is aimed at preventing conflicts. The study examines the legal and institutional framework of IGAD for conflict prevention. A qualitative case study research design was employed in this study. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to select eighteen informants for the study, and data was collected using semi-structured in-depth interviews, document reviews, and literature reviews. Five themes have been identified for data analysis. The findings show that the legal and institutional framework of IGAD is relevant for preventing conflict, however, it has identified several limitations within and beyond the scope of the legal and institutional framework.
An Evaluation of G20’s Stand on Environment and Climate Change Adaption: A Critical Review
Authors: Mutluri Abraham , Nagisetty Lakshmi Narayana , Aduri Samuel John
Published: January 2024

Environment play significant role in the growth and development of the People and Nations at all levels with better sustainability. The aim of this article is to evaluate the G20 summits held in the world stand of the environment and climate change adaptation and also presents discussions, outcomes of G20 meeting held in New Delhi – India on 9th and 10th of September 2023. The more focus of this article is environment and climate change adaptation. It is a latest topic and very few studies were conducted on this topic, so that the researcher presented the G20summit stand on environment and climate change adaptation.  Methodology: This article is prepared with secondary data, available in the books, reports, research papers and online libraries like Google Scholar, J-Gate Plus, Research Gate, Academia, Mendeley and Google. Results: The G20 Summit presided over by India brought new initiatives and funds for climate change mitigation and adaptation for developing healthy and eco-friendly environment. The Biofuel alliance and climate change fund by the United Kingdom are the major achievements at the G20 summit held in India. Announcement of G20 Satellite for environment and climate observation is great initiative born in G20 summit. The leaders attended from various Countries agreed to work on green and low-carbon energy technologies including mechanics like wind turbines, solar panels, biomass systems and carbon capture equipment giving priority for the Non-Conventional type of Energies. These technologies supports the use of natural resources which provide less pollution and promote a green climate which further supports for the achievement of the targets and indicators of Sustainable Development Goals.
Supramolecular Complexation of Porphyrin and Quinone with Two
Coordination Bonds and Intramolecular Electron Transfer
Authors: IMAHORI HIROSHI , YAMADA KOJI , YOSHIZAWA EIICHI , HAGIWARA KIYOSHI , OKADA TADASHI , SAKATA YOSHITERU
Published: September 2002

V-shaped zinc porphyrin dimer and quinone with two pyridyl groups have
been rationally designed and synthesized to assemble a porphyrin-quinone
supramolecule with two coordination bonds. Selective formation of the 1:1
bridging structure between the host-guest molecules was seen by
1 H NMR and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy.
Molecular mechanics calculation suggests that the bridging structure has
rigidity as well as flexibility in geometry between the redox pair, which
supports the interpretation of 1 H NMR studies.
Intramolecular photoinduced electron transfer from the excited singlet state
of the porphyrin to the quinone was observed by steady-state fluorescence
spectra and picosecond fluorescence lifetime measurements.
Transformation of an Acid Dipyrromethane into its Formyl Dipyrromethane without Decarboxylation
Authors: BURNS DENNIS H. , BURDEN MICHAEL W. , LI YUE HU
Published: September 2002

A method for the preparation of an α-formylated pyrrole or dipyrromethane which contains an electron-withdrawing β-acetyl is described. Formylation proceeds directly from the corresponding acid pyrrole or dipyrromethane without the need of the usual two-step acid decarboxylation/formylation procedure. The acid is first transformed into its acid chloride with oxalyl chloride, followed by reduction to the aldehyde with the mild reducing agent sodium triacetoxyborohydride, in a one-pot reaction. The non-basic acylating reagent PR 3 is necessary both for acyl chloride formation and for the reduction to succeed.
Synthesis of Fused Polynuclear Systems Based on Phthalocyanine and Triazolehemiporphyrazine Units
Authors: DE LA TORRE GEMA , MARTÍNEZ-DÍAZ M. VICTORIA , TORRES TOMÁS
Published: September 2002

Unsymmetrically substituted binuclear phthalocyanine derivatives 8 and 9 have been synthesized by mixed condensation of nickel(II) dicyanophthalocyanine 6 with dioctyloxyphthalonitrile 7 in the presence of either nickel(II) or zinc(II) chloride. In addition, a heterotrinuclear phthalocyanine–triazolehemiporphyrazine–phthalocyanine complex 16 has been obtained using the methodology described earlier for the preparation of heterobinuclear phthalocyanine–triazolehemiporphyrazine systems (13a–13e). All these compounds exhibit in their UV-vis spectra broad and split Q bands that are shifted to the near-IR in comparison with mononuclear phthalocyanines as a consequence of the enlargement of the π conjugation.
Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization and Thin Film Deposition of Three Novel Amphiphilic Porphyrins
Authors: HONEYBOURNE COLIN L. , BARRELL KEVIN J.
Published: September 2002

The synthesis of three novel porphyrins (that are models for mesoporphyrin) requires the synthesis of eight new pyrroles, one new alkyl-3-oxohexanoate and two new dipyrromethanes. The new porphyrin free bases have hydrophobic substitution patterns different from that in mesoporphyrin. We are seeking amphilic porphyrins that will form Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) multilayers without recourse to either long-chain alkyl substituents or fatty acid additives. In this way the influence of the conjugated tetrapyrrole unit on the properties of the multilayer films can be maximized. We report multilayer deposition for porphyrins having the following substituents: CH 3, C 2 H 5, n- C 3 H 7, ( CH 2)2 COOMe ; no additives such as stearic acid, cadmium stearate or mesitylene are required, Y-type deposition being exhibited by the simply substituted pure methyl esters. The variations in proton NMR chemical shift with concentration are reported and the action spectrum of an LB film of a porphyrinato- Zn (II) complex is described. Our observations and conclusions are in sharp (and optimistic) contrast with those of H. Chou et al. (J. Phys. Chem. 98, 383 (1994)), who found that in the absence of steric constraints from bulky aliphatic chains the Langmuir films are so rigid that either no multilayers or multilayers of poor quality are given. We obtain good-quality multilayers (60 layers) for porphyrins bearing eight small substituents.
Solution Coordination Chemistry of Protohaemin IX Peptide Derivatives
Authors: ROZHKOVA ELENA A. , EVSTIGNEEVA RIMA P. , NEMYKIN VICTOR N.
Published: September 2002

As part of an investigation aimed at developing artificial models for mimicking haemoprotein activity, four C-aminoacyl protohaemin IX derivatives with one or two -L-Leu-L- HisOMe (complexes 3 and 1) or -β-Ala-L- HisOMe (complexes 4 and 2) peptide fragments have been studied by means of electronic and ESR spectroscopy. The bis-His complexes 1 and 2 are predominantly low-spin ( S = 1/2) species, while the mono-His complexes 3 and 4 are predominantly high-spin ( S = 5/2) species. Products of the treatment of starting complexes 1–4 with trichloroacetic acid, acetic acid, methylimidazole, sodium cyanide and sodium hydroxide have been analysed by electronic spectroscopy. Weak-field ligands lead to predominantly high-spin hexacoordinated complexes, while strong-field ligands result in predominantly low-spin ones.
Porphyrin-based nanostructures: routes to molecular electronics
Authors: BURRELL ANTHONY K. , WASIELEWSKI MICHAEL R.
Published: September 2002

The potential of porphyrins and related macrocycles for applications in molecular electronics owes much to the fundamental studies of the photosynthetic light-harvesting arrays and reaction centers. The use of model systems to better understand these essential processes has resulted in the development of an assortment of methodologies for functionalizing and constructing the complex three-dimensional nanostructures that will be essential for a successful molecular electronic system.
Synthesis and some spectroscopic properties of tetra-2,3-pyridoporphyrazinatosilicon involving bulky axial ligands
Authors: NONOMURA TARO , KOBAYASHI NAGAO , TOMURA TATSUYA
Published: September 2002

Tetra-2,3-pyridoporphyrazinatosilicon ( SiPyD ) containing bis(tri-n-hexylsiloxy) (1) or bis(n-heptylcarbonyloxy) (2) axial ligands have been prepared and characterized by NMR, IR and electronic absorption spectroscopies and by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). These SiPyDs are soluble in common organic solvents, and face-to-face-type stacking is prevented in solution and films. Accordingly, their NMR spectra could be reasonably assigned. Their electronic absorption spectra in solution appear to the blue and red compared with those of the corresponding Si phthalocyanines ( SiPcs ) and Si tetrapyrazinoporphyrazines ( SiPyZs ) respectively. These characteristics are reproduced by molecular orbital calculations in the framework of the Pariser-Parr-Pople approximation. On formation of films, the Q bands shift to the red of those in solution by ca 20 nm, suggesting that other similar tetravalent metallophthalocyanines with two long axial ligands can be used for shifting the Q band to the red. TGA and DTA experiments show that the thermal stability of the macrocycles is markedly influenced by the type of axial ligands.
Non‐linear adaptive control of a heat exchanger
Authors: Fink Alexander , Nelles Oliver , Fischer Martin , Isermann Rolf
Published: September 2002

In this contribution, two methods for adaptation of non‐linear adaptive controllers are presented and compared, namely the data‐driven and the knowledge‐based adaptation. A dynamic Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy model is utilized to model the non‐linear process behaviour. Based on this model, a non‐linear predictive controller is designed to control the process. In the presence of time‐variant process behaviour and changing unmodelled disturbances, high control performance can be achieved by performing an on‐line adaptation of the fuzzy model. First, a local weighted recursive least‐squares algorithm is used for adaptation. It exploits the local linearity of the Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy model. In the second approach, process knowledge that is obtained from theoretical insights is utilized to design a knowledge‐based adaptation strategy. Both approaches are compared and their effectiveness and real‐world applicability are demonstrated by application to temperature control of a heat exchanger. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Market concentration and vertical coordination in the pork industry: Implications for public policy analysis
Authors: Paarlberg Philip L. , Haley Mildred M.
Published: September 2002

Concentration in the pork industry has increased and spawned concerns over market power. Agricultural policy instruments operate differently under imperfect competition. This article analyzes the impacts of policy instruments when the pork industry is assumed to be imperfectly competitive. The arguments are made that policy instruments can be categorized into those with impacts independent of market conduct and those with impacts dependent on market conduct. If the policy objective is to raise swine grower welfare, markets need to remain open to trade, the use of quantitative policy instruments should be avoided, and domestic subsidies to packers must be effective. [Econ Lit citation: L130, L660, Q118] © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis following childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Raj Ashok , Bendon Robert , Moriarty Thomas , Suarez Carlos , Bertolone Salvatore
Published: September 2002

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a clonal proliferation of Langerhans cells of unknown etiology that results in a range of clinical manifestations. LCH has been known to be associated with a variety of malignant diseases. A 7‐year‐old boy was treated for standard‐risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at age 2 years, on a Children's Cancer Group chemotherapy protocol for 3 years and developed LCH 2 years after completion of chemotherapy. The case and a review of literature on the association of LCH and ALL are presented. Am. J. Hematol. 68:284–286, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Epidemiology of enamel hypoplasia in deciduous teeth: Explaining variation in prevalence in western india
Authors: Lukacs John R. , Walimbe Subhash R. , Floyd Bruce
Published: September 2002

This study is based on seven samples of school children (n = 516) from rural (five groups) and urban (two groups) settings in western Maharashtra, India. Height and weight were recorded for each subject. Intra‐oral observation of the labial surface of maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth was conducted with a low power (3×) illuminated hand lens. Presence of enamel hypoplasia was recorded on a dental chart by drawing the size and location of the defect on the affected tooth. Data analysis was conducted in two stages: 1) Enamel hypoplasia (EH) prevalence was analyzed by percentage of teeth and by percentage of individuals affected for the composite sample and independently for each study group and 2) an assessment of the relationship between anthropometric variables (height and weight), socio‐economic status (SES), and localized hypoplasia of primary canines (LHPC; Skinner, 1986) was evaluated using multiple linear regression analysis. EH was observed less often in deciduous incisors (0.2% in di2 to 2.5% in di2) than in deciduous canines (dc). Mandibular dc were affected with the greatest frequency (23.1%, tooth count). The overall individual count prevalence of dc hypoplasia (LHPC) is 26.2% (134/511) for all village samples and sexes combined. Difference in LHPC frequency by sex is non‐significant, with males (24.7%, 70/284) and females (28.2%, 64/227) exhibiting nearly equal values. Significant inter‐group variation in LHPC prevalence was documented among the seven groups, and the range of LHPC prevalence the among living groups exceeds variability in LHPC among four prehistoric Chalcolithic skeletal series of the Deccan Plateau. Multiple regression analysis revealed no significant relationship between height‐for‐age or weight‐for‐age in four school samples (two urban/two rural), but a significant association between stature and LHPC was found for three rural endogamous groups. Children with LHPC were significantly shorter by 1.5 cm than children who lacked the defect after controlling for differences in age. While the association between low birth weight and EH is strong and well documented clinically, the association between childhood stature and LHPC is more variable across groups and may reflect inter‐group variation in the duration and intensity of environmental stress. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 13:788–807, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nonhuman primate hybridization and the taxonomic status of Neanderthals
Authors: Schillaci Michael A. , Froehlich Jeffery W.
Published: September 2002

The present study examines the taxonomic status of Middle Paleolithic Neanderthals by comparing their observed minimum genetic divergence from Upper Paleolithic modern humans in Europe with that observed between macaque species from Sulawesi that are known to hybridize and fully intergrade in the wild. The genetic divergence, and differentiation between Neanderthals and Upper Paleolithic modern humans, as indicated by pairwise minimum genetic distances and FST values calculated from the estimated minimum genetic relationship (R) matrix derived from craniometric data, are significantly greater than those observed both between hybridizing and noninterbreeding Sulawesi macaque species, suggesting that mate recognition and the possibility of gene flow between Neanderthals and Upper Paleolithic modern humans might have been greatly reduced. These results support a species‐level taxonomic distinction for the Neanderthals as suggested by proponents of the replacement model. Furthermore, assumptions regarding the monophyletic origin of modern humans from outside Europe are likely valid. Am J Phys Anthropol 115:157–166, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Large‐scale, multicenter study of cerebrospinal fluid tau protein phosphorylated at serine 199 for the antemortem diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Itoh Nobuo , Arai Hiroyuki , Urakami Katsuya , Ishiguro Koichi , Ohno Hideto , Hampel Harald , Buerger Katharina , Wiltfang Jens , Otto Markus , Kretzschmar Hans , Moeller Hans‐Juergen , Imagawa Masaki , Kohno Hideki , Nakashima Kenji , Kuzuhara Shigeki , Sasaki Hidetada , Imahori Kazutomo
Published: September 2002

We surveyed a total of 570 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from a variety of diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD; n = 236), non‐AD‐demented and nondemented diseases (n = 239), and normal controls (n = 95) to quantitate levels of tau protein phosphorylated at serine 199 (CSF/phospho‐tau199) by a recently established sandwich ELISA. The CSF/phospho‐tau199 levels in the AD group were significantly elevated compared to those in all the other non‐AD groups. Receiver operating characteristics curves showed that the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for the AD group versus all the other non‐AD groups using the CSF/phospho‐tau199 were 85.2% and 85.0%, respectively. Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between CSF/phospho‐tau199 and CSF/total‐tau levels in the AD group. Elevated CSF/phospho‐tau199 in the AD group was noted irrespective of age, gender, dementia severity, and number of apolipoprotein E4 alleles. Thus, we suggest that CSF/phospho‐tau199 may be a novel and logical biomarker in supporting antemortem diagnosis of AD.
Blinded positron emission tomography study of dopamine cell implantation for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Nakamura Toshitaka , Dhawan Vijay , Chaly Thomas , Fukuda Masafumi , Ma Yilong , Breeze Robert , Greene Paul , Fahn Stanley , Freed Curt , Eidelberg David
Published: September 2002

We assessed nigrostriatal dopaminergic function in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients undergoing a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled surgical trial of embryonic dopamine cell implantation. Forty PD patients underwent positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with [18F]fluorodopa (FDOPA) prior to randomization to transplantation or placebo surgery. The 39 surviving patients were rescanned 1 year following surgery. Images were quantified by investigators blinded to treatment status and clinical outcome. Following unblinding, we determined the effects of treatment status and age on the interval changes in FDOPA/PET signal. Blinded observers detected a significant increase in FDOPA uptake in the putamen of the group receiving implants compared to the placebo surgery patients (40.3%). Increases in putamen FDOPA uptake were similar in both younger (age ≤60 years) and older (age >60 years) transplant recipients. Significant decrements in putamen uptake were evident in younger placebo‐operated patients (–6.5% ) but not in their older counterparts. Correlations between the PET changes and clinical outcome were significant only in the younger patient subgroup (r = 0.58). The findings suggest that patient age does not influence graft viability or development in the first postoperative year. However, host age may influence the time course of the downstream functional changes that are needed for clinical benefit to occur.
Behaviour of organoarsenic compounds in contact with natural zeolites
Authors: Elizalde‐González María P. , Mattusch J. , Wennrich R.
Published: September 2002

Batch experiments were conducted on aqueous solutions containing arsenite, arsenobetaine, methylarsonic acid or phenylarsonic acid in contact with natural zeolites to examine their interaction. The concentration of the arsenic species in the liquid phase at equilibrium before and after contact was measured by means of liquid chromatography coupled with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry detection. Clinoptilolites completely removed arsenobetaine from the solution and the resulting amounts of dimethylarsinic acid were detected. The methylarsonic acid maximum concentration diminution was reached at a mass—to volume V value of m/V = 0.2. Phenylarsonic acid solution decreased its concentration 75% after treatment with clinoptilolites. Untreated mordenites in contact with arsenite solutions led to the formation of arsenate, whereas acid‐washed mordenites practically removed arsenobetaine and were less effective for methylarsonic acid. To show the incompatibility of molecular dimensions with the zeolite windows, the molecular parameters of surface area, molecular volume, molecular length, and the width and depth of arsenite, arsenate and a series of ten organic arsenic compounds were calculated. Since sorption onto the external zeolite surface rather than a sieve process defined the interaction, an acid‐catalysed reaction mechanism is proposed to explain the transformation results. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acid anhydrides as alternatives to acid chlorides in the palladium‐catalyzed reaction with silacyclobutanes
Authors: Tanaka Yoshifumi , Yamashita Masakazu
Published: September 2002

The palladium‐catalyzed reaction of acid anhydrides with silacyclobutane gives a mixture of cyclic silyl enol ether, carboxy(propyl)silane, and 3‐(carboxysilyl)ketone. In the presence of N,N‐dicyclohexylcarbodiimido (DCC), the reaction preferentially provides a cyclic silyl enol ether in a good yield. In addition, the palladium‐catalyzed reaction of benzoic acid with silacyclobutane in the presence of two equivalents of DCC also affords a cyclic silyl enol ether in a moderate yield. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The synthesis of new chiral rhodium complexes and their crystal structures
Authors: Shi Min , Lei Gui‐Xin
Published: September 2002

Two novel chiral rhodium complexes were successfully synthesized from the reaction of chiral bidentate nitrogen ligands with RhCl3·3H2O in ethanol under reflux. Their unusual crystal structures were unambiguously obtained by X‐ray analysis. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Caveolar and intercellular channels provide major transport pathways of macromolecules across vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Ogawa Kazushige , Imai Masaki , Ogawa Tokiko , Tsukamoto Yasuhiro , Sasaki Fumihiko
Published: September 2002

Serum macromolecules are transported through the vascular endothelial layer to the interstitium via the caveolae and interendothelial clefts, but the nature of the permeability of these structures is unknown, and the manner of caveola‐vesicle transport is controversial. We have developed a method of detecting macromolecular channels using an in situ HRP perfusion into arteries previously perfused with aldehyde and random conventional sectioning for electron microscopy. Using unbiased morphometry, 4.75% of the abluminal caveolae and 15.13% of the intercellular clefts were the tracer‐positive in rat aortic endothelium. In rat aortas treated with N‐ethylmaleimide, all caveolae and most free vesicles in the cytoplasm except those around the Golgi area were HRP‐positive in the endothelial cells; 1.48% of abluminal caveolae were structurally recognized as caveolar channels through the endothelial layer in a plane of single section. The length density of the abluminal caveolae was decreased to about 80% to the physiological control level whereas the larger invaginations were more frequently observed. Moreover 96.17% of the intercellular clefts were HRP‐positive. We suggest that a flexible channel‐system functions extensively as a macromolecular transport pathway in the arterial endothelium in vivo because the tracer‐labeled abluminal caveolae and intercellular clefts should be opened to the luminal surfaces methodologically. We therefore propose that caveolar channels, rather than transcytosis, provide a mechanism of caveola‐vesicle transport in the endothelial cells, because free vesicles involved in transcytosis were few in number. Anat Rec 264:32–42, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detection of a single copy gene on a mitotic metaphase chromosome by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in the sawfly, Athalia rosae (Hymenoptera)
Authors: Matsumoto Kouhei , Yamamoto Daisuke S. , Sumitani Megumi , Lee Jae Min , Hatakeyama Masatsugu , Oishi Kugao
Published: September 2002

Mitotic metaphase chromosomes of Athalia rosae (Hymenoptera) haploid males were subjected to fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis using an rDNA probe and two vitellogenin (Vg) cDNA probes (one representing the 5′ half and the other the 3′ half of the gene, each about 3 kb long, and together covering the entire coding region). The rDNA probe produced signals in four chromosomes, all in pericentromeric regions (haploid chromosome number = 8), and the Vg probes, either the combined probes or the 3′ region alone, produced a twin signal in the middle of a chromosome arm of a single chromosome. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 49:34–40, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Location analysis of DNA‐bound proteins at the whole‐genome level: untangling transcriptional regulatory networks
Authors: Nal Béatrice , Mohr Elodie , Ferrier Pierre
Published: September 2002

In this post‐sequencing era, geneticists can focus on functional genomics on a much larger scale than ever before. One goal is the discovery and elucidation of the intricate genetic networks that co‐ordinate transcriptional activation in different regulatory circuitries. High‐throughput gene expression measurement using DNA arrays has thus become routine strategy. This approach, however, does not directly identify gene loci that belong to the same regulatory group; e.g., those that are bound by a common (set of) transcription factor(s). Working in yeast, two groups have recently published an elegant method that could circumvent this problem, by combining chromatin immunoprecipitation and DNA microarrays.(1,2) The method is likely to provide a powerful tool for the dissection of global regulatory networks in eukaryotic cells. BioEssays 23:473–476, 2001. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system: nuclear genes and human genetic diseases
Authors: van den Heuvel Lambert , Smeitink Jan
Published: September 2002

The ubiquitous nature of mitochondria, the dual genetic foundation of the respiratory chain in mitochondrial and nuclear genome, and the peculiar rules of mitochondrial genetics all contribute to the extraordinary heterogeneity of clinical disorders associated with defects of oxidative phosphorylation (mitochondrial encephalomyopathies). Here, we review recent findings about nuclear gene defects in isolated OXPHOS enzyme complex deficiency. This information should help in identifying patients with mitochondrial disease and defining a biochemical and molecular basis of the disorder found in each patient. This knowledge is indispensable for accurate genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis, and is a prerequisite for the development of rational therapies, which are still, at present, woefully inadequate. BioEssays 23:518–525, 2001. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Glycerol: a neglected variable in metabolic processes?
Authors: Brisson Diane , Vohl Marie‐Claude , St‐Pierre Julie , Hudson Thomas J. , Gaudet Daniel
Published: September 2002

Glycerol is a small and simple molecule produced in the breakdown of glucose, proteins, pyruvate, triacylglycerols and other glycerolipid, as well as release from dietary fats. An increasing number of observations show that glycerol is probably involved in a surprising variety of physiopathologic mechanisms. Glycerol has long been known to play fundamental roles in several vital physiological processes, in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and is an important intermediate of energy metabolism. Despite some differences in the details of their operation, many of these mechanisms have been preserved throughout evolution, demonstrating their fundamental importance. In particular, glycerol can control osmotic activity and crystal formation and then act as a cryoprotective agent. Furthermore, its properties make it useful in numerous industrial, therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Few studies have focussed directly on glycerol, however, and while its metabolism is increasingly well documented, much of the details remain unknown. Considering the importance of glycerol in multiple vital physiological processes, its study could help unlock important physiopathological mechanisms. BioEssays 23:534–542, 2001. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Online analysis of development
Authors: Vize Peter D.
Published: September 2002

The genomics revolution has altered the very nature of research in molecular biology, from how to find genes to how to find out what specific genes do. Given the availability of so many fully (or nearly) sequenced genomes, it is now relatively easy to track down dozens or even hundreds of genes relevant to a particular field of study. Unfortunately, up till now, the tools for determining what these genes actually do in embryos and cells have not kept pace, but the burgeoning field of bioinformatics should help correct this shortcoming and introduce the power of genomics to the study of developmental biology. In this review, some of the bioinformatics resources relevant to developmental biologists are described along with some simple approaches for applying these tools to analyzing early development. BioEssays 23:549–554, 2001. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.