bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SIMILARITY RELATIONS, VAGUE GROUPS, AND FUZZY SUBGROUPS
Authors: BHUTANI KIRAN R. , MORDESON JOHN N.
Published: October 2006

We define vague groups in terms of similarity relations rather than fuzzy equalities. This yields a bijection between the set of all right-invariant similarity relations on a group and the set of all fuzzy subgroups of the group. Under this bijection, right-invariant and left-invariant similarity relations correspond to normal fuzzy subgroups. We show how this bijection allows for the transfer of results between vague groups and fuzzy subgroups. In particular, certain numerical invariants that characterize fuzzy subgroups of an Abelian group can be used to characterize vague groups.
Persistent Enhancement of Neuron–Glia Signaling Mediated by Increased Extracellular K+ Accompanying Long-Term Synaptic Potentiation
Authors: Ge Woo-Ping , Duan Shumin
Published: October 2006

Neuron–glia signaling is important for neural development and functions. This signaling may be regulated by neuronal activity and undergo modification similar to long-term potentiation (LTP) of neuronal synapses, a hallmark of neuronal plasticity. We found that tetanic stimulation of Schaffer collaterals (Sc) in the hippocampus that induced LTP in neurons also resulted in LTP-like persistent elevation of Sc-evoked slow depolarization in perisynaptic astrocytes. The elevated slow depolarization in astrocytes was abolished by NMDA receptor antagonist and K+ channel inhibitors, but not by Ca2+ chelator BAPTA loaded in the recorded astrocytes, suggesting involvement of an increased extracellular K+ accumulation accompanying LTP of neuronal synapses. The increased K+ accumulation and astrocyte depolarization after LTP induction may reduce the efficiency of glial glutamate transporters, which may contribute to the enhanced synaptic efficacy. The neuronal activity–induced persistent enhancement of neuron–glia signaling may thus have important physiological relevance.
Ectopic Pancreas in the Ampulla of Vater with Obstructive Jaundice
Authors: Chou Shao-Jiun , Chou Yu-Wei , Jan Hsiang-Chun , Chen Victor T.K. , Chen Tzu-Hung
Published: October 2006

Ectopic pancreas is an uncommon condition and is usually found in the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach, duodenum and jejunum. However, ectopic pancreas in the ampulla of Vater is rare and its clinical presentations may be similar to periampullary cancer. It is difficult to diagnose preoperatively. We present such a case where the diagnosis was proven postoperatively. Our patient, a 51-year-old man, presented with epigastric pain, jaundice, weight loss and abnormal laboratory data. Imaging study, including abdominal sonography, abdominal computerized tomography with contrast and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, showed a mass protruding into the ampulla of Vater. The mass was resected and histological examination revealed an ectopic pancreas. The patient presented with symptoms of periampullary tumor but the imaging study did not reveal an obvious lesion for us consider the possibility of ectopic pancreas. Surgical excision is indicated for symptomatic cases.
Integration of curated databases to identify genotype-phenotype associations
Authors: Goh Chern-Sing , Gianoulis Tara A , Liu Yang , Li Jianrong , Paccanaro Alberto , Lussier Yves A , Gerstein Mark
Published: October 2006

Background

The ability to rapidly characterize an unknown microorganism is critical in both responding to infectious disease and biodefense. To do this, we need some way of anticipating an organism's phenotype based on the molecules encoded by its genome. However, the link between molecular composition (i.e. genotype) and phenotype for microbes is not obvious. While there have been several studies that address this challenge, none have yet proposed a large-scale method integrating curated biological information. Here we utilize a systematic approach to discover genotype-phenotype associations that combines phenotypic information from a biomedical informatics database, GIDEON, with the molecular information contained in National Center for Biotechnology Information's Clusters of Orthologous Groups database (NCBI COGs).

Results

Integrating the information in the two databases, we are able to correlate the presence or absence of a given protein in a microbe with its phenotype as measured by certain morphological characteristics or survival in a particular growth media. With a 0.8 correlation score threshold, 66% of the associations found were confirmed by the literature and at a 0.9 correlation threshold, 86% were positively verified.

Conclusion

Our results suggest possible phenotypic manifestations for proteins biochemically associated with sugar metabolism and electron transport. Moreover, we believe our approach can be extended to linking pathogenic phenotypes with functionally related proteins.
Daily temperature profiles in and around Western Kenyan larval habitats of Anopheles gambiae as related to egg mortality
Authors: Huang Juan , Walker Edward D , Vulule John , Miller James R
Published: October 2006

Background

Anopheles gambiae eggs are more frequently found on soil around puddle habitats of the larvae, than on the water surface itself in Western Kenya. Thus, eggs can experience temperatures more wide-ranging and lethal than those experienced by larvae or pupae confined within puddles.

Methods

Small batches of eggs from house-collected An. gambiae as well as from the Kisumu laboratory strain were bathed for defined times in water whose temperature was precisely controlled. Daily temperature profiles were recorded by an infrared thermometer on seven different days in and around three types of typical An. gambiae larval habitats at Kisian.

Results

For wild eggs, significant mortality occurred upon brief heating between 42 – 44°C. Few eggs hatched after 10 min at 45°C and none hatched above this temperature. A similar pattern occurred for eggs of the Kisumu strain, except it was shifted downwards by 1°C. Egg mortality was time-dependent above 40°C. Temperatures of water in the three types of larval habitats never exceeded 35°C. Wet or damp mud rarely and only briefly exceeded 40°C; thus, water and mud would be highly conducive to egg survival and development. However, dry soils frequently reached 40 – 50°C for several h. Eggs stranded on dry surfaces would experience substantial mortality on hot, sunny days.

Conclusion

Moist mud around puddles constitutes suitable habitat for An. gambiae eggs; however, eggs on the surface of dry soil under direct sunlight are unlikely to survive for more than a few hours.
The synapsin domain E accelerates the exoendocytotic cycle of synaptic vesicles in cerebellar Purkinje cells
Authors: Fassio Anna , Merlo Daniela , Mapelli Jonathan , Menegon Andrea , Corradi Anna , Mete Maurizio , Zappettini Simona , Bonanno Giambattista , Valtorta Flavia , D'Angelo Egidio , Benfenati Fabio
Published: October 2006

Synapsins are synaptic-vesicle-associated phosphoproteins implicated in the regulation of neurotransmitter release and excitability of neuronal networks. Mutation of synapsin genes in mouse and human causes epilepsy. To understand the role of the highly conserved synapsin domain E in the dynamics of release from mammalian inhibitory neurons, we generated mice that selectively overexpress the most conserved part of this domain in cerebellar Purkinje cells. At Purkinje-cell–nuclear-neuron synapses, transgenic mice were more resistant to depression induced by short or prolonged high-frequency stimulations. The increased synaptic performance was accompanied by accelerated release kinetics and shorter synaptic delay. Despite a marked decrease in the total number of synaptic vesicles, vesicles at the active zone were preserved or slightly increased. The data indicate that synapsin domain E increases synaptic efficiency by accelerating both the kinetics of exocytosis and the rate of synaptic vesicle cycling and decreasing depression at the inhibitory Purkinje-cell–nuclear-neuron synapse. These effects may increase the sensitivity of postsynaptic neurons to inhibition and thereby contribute to the inhibitory control of network activity.
Gynaecologic mortality in Enugu, Nigeria
Authors: Anya S E , Ezugwu F O , Okaro J M
Published: October 2006

A retrospective review of 79 deaths in 2033 gynaecologic admissions at a referral centre showed that the leading causes of mortality were cervical cancer, choriocarcinoma, septic abortion and ovarian cancer, in that order. The results suggest a need for an organized cancer programme to limit morbidity and mortality from malignant disease of the female genital tract.
Knowledge, attitudes and public health response towards plague in Petauke, Zambia
Authors: Ngulube T J , Mwanza K , Njobvu C A , Muula A S
Published: October 2006

In 2001, two plague outbreaks were reported in Zambia, one of which occurred in Petauke, Eastern Province, resulting in high morbidity and mortality. Of the community respondents, 43.4% did not know the aetiology of plague. Although rats and fleas were frequently mentioned, many respondents did not know how these were related to plague. Local belief that the plague outbreak was the result of witchcraft was prevalent. Use of rodenticides was not preferred as these were reports of they being used for poisoning people. The public health response was initially slow by both the community and also the formal health sector. Once the diagnosis of plague was made, fears of witchcraft dispelled and collaboration not only between the formal health sector and the community, but also between Zambian health workers and their Mozambican counterparts developed, and it was possible to control the outbreak.
The increasing prevalence of diabetic nephropathy as a cause of end stage renal disease in Nigeria
Authors: Alebiosu C O , Ayodele O E
Published: October 2006

The incidence of diabetic nephropathy, the leading cause of chronic kidney disease in the western world has increased by 150% in the past 10 years in the United States, with similar trends in Europe and Japan. It is apparent from the present study that diabetic nephropathy may be assuming an increasing role as a cause of chronic kidney disease in Nigeria.
Recurrent tumoral calcinosis
Authors: Nggada H A , Eni U E , Lawan M A , Pindiga U H , Na'aya H U , Khalil M I
Published: October 2006

Tumoral calcinosis is a rare, benign disease that commonly affects the African blacks. We report on a 20-year-old Nigerian presenting with recurrent multiple subcutaneous masses around the scapular, elbow, hip and gluteal regions. The X-rays, fine needle aspiration cytology and tissue biopsy confirmed the diagnosis and the patient had a successful excision with good healing.
African histoplasmosis - masquerading as a malignant bone tumour
Authors: Akinyoola A L , Onayemi O , Famurewa O C
Published: October 2006

A 23-year-old immunocompetent woman presented with a two-month history of fungating left shoulder and left elbow swellings associated with fever, weight loss and anaemia. X-rays showed lytic destruction of the lateral third of the left clavicle and distal half of the left humerus. Histology of biopsy specimen confirmed African histoplasmosis. The lesion resolved following treatment with ketoconazole.
Aggregated Wind Turbine Models for Power System Dynamic Studies
Authors: Shafiu A. , Anaya-Lara O. , Bathurst G. , Jenkins N.
Published: October 2006

The interaction between a power system and a wind-farm can be studied using either a simplified ‘aggregated’ or a complex ‘detailed’ model. The detailed-model results compare well with the actual, therefore, provided that both models have similar dynamic characteristics, the aggregated model provides a rapid and cost-effective way of representing large wind-farms in power system dynamic studies. A brief overview of wind-farm aggregation methods is given and their application in power systems analysis is discussed. Aggregation techniques are then applied to a wind-farm with thirty wind turbines. It is shown that the aggregation of the swing equation and equivalent representation of network and generator impedances can be used for aggregated representation of fixed speed wind turbines. A similar approach applied to the d-and q-axis controller of a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) failed initially to provide satisfactory dynamic characteristics with the aggregated model. Consequently, a simple method was used to scale the rotor currents of the controller, so the dynamic characteristics with DFIGs became acceptable.
UK Large-Scale Wind Power Programme from 1970 to 1990: The Carmarthen Bay Experiments and the Musgrove Vertical-Axis Turbines
Authors: Price Trevor J.
Published: October 2006

This article describes the development of the Musgrove Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) concept, the UK ‘Carmarthen Bay’ wind turbine test programme, and UK government's wind power programme to 1990. One of the most significant developments in the story of British wind power occurred during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, with the development of the Musgrove vertical axis wind turbine and its inclusion within the UK Government's wind turbine test programme. Evolving from a supervisor's idea for an undergraduate project at Reading University, the Musgrove VAWT was once seen as an able competitor to the horizontal axis wind systems that were also being encouraged at the time by both the UK government and the Central Electricity Generating Board, the then nationalised electricity utility for England and Wales. During the 1980s and 1990s the most developed Musgrove VAWT system, along with three other commercial turbine designs was tested at Carmarthen Bay, South Wales as part of a national wind power test programme. From these developmental tests, operational data was collected and lessons learnt, which were incorporated into subsequent wind power operations.
Wind Turbine Simulation Procedures
Authors: Nichita C. , Mokadem M. El , Dakyo B.
Published: October 2006

The main goal of this work is to develop specific procedures for implementation in wind turbine simulators designed especially for small machines. Using blade element methodology, we establish procedures for the torque and power characteristics of a small wind turbine, where some physical construction parameters are known. The algorithm is developed for two simulation procedures, which differ by the parameter used for the set of characteristics (wind speed or pitch angle).
Valve-Aided Twisted Savonius Rotor
Authors: Rajkumar M. Jaya , Saha U. K.
Published: October 2006

Accessories, such as end plates, deflecting plates, shielding and guide vanes, may increase the power of a Savonius rotor, but make the system structurally complex. In such cases, the rotor can develop a relatively large torque at small rotational speeds and is cheap to build, however it harnesses only a small fraction of the incident wind energy. Another proposition for increasing specific output is to place non-return valves inside the concave side of the blades. Such methods have been studied experimentally with a twisted-blade Thus, improving a Savonius rotor's, energy capture. This new concept has been named as the ‘Valve-Aided Twisted Savonius'rotor. Tests were conducted in a low-speed wind tunnel to evaluate performance. This mechanism is found to be independent of flow direction, and shows potential for large machines.
Effects of Uncoupled Motion on Performance
Authors: Muth Eric R. , Walker Alexander D. , Fiorello Matthew
Published: October 2006

Objectives: To determine whether human exposure to vehicle motion specifically affects performance on a similar, yet uncorrelated, driving task and to observe the motion/simulator sickness symptoms that were associated with the real vehicle motion and the driving task. Background: Past research has shown uncoupled motion can affect a person's performance on a task as well as induce motion sickness. Methods: Ten participants (age range = 19-25 years) completed an uncorrelated driving task while seated in a stationary real vehicle and a moving real vehicle. Results: The results show participants took longer to complete the motion condition, t(9) = 1.96, p < .05, and were less accurate, t(9) = 3.73, p < .05. Scores for the Motion Sickness Assessment Questionnaire, t(9) = 3.37, p < .05, and the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire, t(9) = 3.30, p < .05, were significantly higher during the motion condition. Conclusions: Performance on the task was degraded and motion sickness heightened during the motion condition. Application: This research has potential implications for military-related tasks such as operating a command and control station or controlling a remote vehicle while simultaneously being a passenger in a real vehicle, as well as for civilian applications such as interacting with a moving map navigation system while driving a car.
Three-Dimensional Auditory Display for Enhancing Detection of Passive Sonar Signals
Authors: Arrabito G. Robert
Published: October 2006

Objective: The viability of a three-dimensional (3-D) auditory display for improving signal detection of passive sonar signals was investigated. Background: Sonar operators usually have difficulty detecting targets because the sound received by the hydrophone has a low signal-to-noise ratio when coupled with the operator's headset that does not isolate well against the ambient noise. Methods: Release from masking was assessed by pairing a recording of a torpedo with diotic broadband pink noise that served as a masker, and a 400 Hz tone with the masker. Masked thresholds were measured for seven signal durations when each signal was presented dioticly and in 3-D auditory space at three positions on the horizontal plane. Results: The spatial separation of signal and masker yielded a significant improvement in detection. Conclusion: A 3-D auditory display is a viable technology that could lead to a significant improvement in release from masking. The magnitude of the masking level difference will vary with respect to the characteristics of the hydrophone signal and masker and the synthesis capability of the 3-D auditory display. Application: Potential applications of this research include enhanced auditory displays for processing passive sonar signals, leading to earlier detection of enemy targets.
Web-Based Information Search and Retrieval: Effects of Strategy Use and Age on Search Success
Authors: Stronge Aideen J. , Rogers Wendy A. , Fisk Arthur D.
Published: October 2006

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between strategy use and search success on the World Wide Web (i.e., the Web) for experienced Web users. An additional goal was to extend understanding of how the age of the searcher may influence strategy use. Background: Current investigations of information search and retrieval on the Web have provided an incomplete picture of Web strategy use because participants have not been given the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge of Web strategies while also searching for information on the Web. Methods: Using both behavioral and knowledge-engineering methods, we investigated searching behavior and system knowledge for 16 younger adults (M = 20.88 years of age) and 16 older adults (M = 67.88 years). Results: Older adults were less successful than younger adults in finding correct answers to the search tasks. Knowledge engineering revealed that the age-related effect resulted from ineffective search strategies and amount of Web experience rather than age per se. Our analysis led to the development of a decision-action diagram representing search behavior for both age groups. Conclusion: Older adults had more difficulty than younger adults when searching for information on the Web. However, this difficulty was related to the selection of inefficient search strategies, which may have been attributable to a lack of knowledge about available Web search strategies. Application: Actual or potential applications of this research include training Web users to search more effectively and suggestions to improve the design of search engines.
Automation Reliability in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Control: A Reliance-Compliance Model of Automation Dependence in High Workload
Authors: Dixon Stephen R. , Wickens Christopher D.
Published: October 2006

Objective: Two experiments were conducted in which participants navigated a simulated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) through a series of mission legs while searching for targets and monitoring system parameters. The goal of the study was to highlight the qualitatively different effects of automation false alarms and misses as they relate to operator compliance and reliance, respectively. Background: Background data suggest that automation false alarms cause reduced compliance, whereas misses cause reduced reliance. Method: In two studies, 32 and 24 participants, including some licensed pilots, performed in-lab UAV simulations that presented the visual world and collected dependent measures. Results: Results indicated that with the low-reliability aids, false alarms correlated with poorer performance in the system failure task, whereas misses correlated with poorer performance in the concurrent tasks. Conclusion: Compliance and reliance do appear to be affected by false alarms and misses, respectively, and are relatively independent of each other. Application: Practical implications are that automated aids must be fairly reliable to provide global benefits and that false alarms and misses have qualitatively different effects on performance.
Perceptual Issues in the Use of Head-Mounted Visual Displays
Authors: Patterson Robert , Winterbottom Marc D. , Pierce Byron J.
Published: October 2006

Objective: We provide a review and analysis of much of the published literature on visual perception issues that impact the design and use of head-mounted displays (HMDs). Background: Unlike the previous literature on HMDs, this review draws heavily from the basic vision literature in order to help provide insight for future design solutions for HMDs. Method: Included in this review are articles and books found cited in other works as well as articles and books obtained from an Internet search. Results: Issues discussed include the effect of brightness and contrast on depth of field, dark focus, dark ergence, and perceptual constancy; the effect of accommodation-vergence synergy on perceptual constancy, eyestrain, and discomfort; the relationship of field of view to the functioning of different visual pathways and the types of visual motor tasks mediated by them; the relationship of binocular input to visual suppression; and the importance of head movements, head tracking, and display update lag. Conclusion: This paper offers a set of recommendations for the design and use of HMDs. Application: Consideration of the basic vision literature will provide insight for future design solutions for HMDs.
IP based Seamless Mobility Support in Heterogeneous Networks – Evaluation of Handover Mechanisms for Future Heterogeneous 3GPP Networks (IP basierte nahtlose Mobilitätsunterstützung in heterogenen Netzwerken – Evaluierung von Handover-Mechanismen für zukünftige heterogene 3GPP Netzwerke)
Authors: Ambrosy Anton , Blume Oliver , Hofmann Dirk , Kühn Edgar , Küfner Stuttgart Tobias
Published: October 2006

Mobile IP (MIP) protocols are candidates for seamless mobility support in heterogeneous networks with different radio access technologies. Handover requirements are analysed by Random-Way-Point mobility simulations. We then simulated packet loss, delay and network load during MIP and Fast MIP handover to identify the main contributions to handover latency. Best performance is found for MIP in Make-Before-Break scenario.
Routing and Self-organization in IP based Wireless Access Networks (Routing und Selbstorganisation in drahtlosen IP-basierten Zugangsnetzen)
Authors: Stanze Oliver , Weniger Kilian Alexander , Zitterbart Martina , Aust Stefan , Bayer Nico , Gerharz Michael , Lamparter Bernd , Westhoff Dirk , Weiß Erik
Published: October 2006

The BMBF project IPonAir addressed the integration of different wireless access systems with the Internet. This article gives a short overview of some of the project results in the area of mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) and the integration of these networks with the Internet.
Process Chemistry in API Development
Authors: Marti Hans-Ruedi , Siegel Jay S.
Published: October 2006

the timely supply of high-quality active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) depends on efficient process chemistry run under Good manufacturing Practice (cGMP) guidelines. the enterprise requires the harmonization of technical, logistic, economic, and regulatory factors to result in
a market viable production. this special of CHIMIA focuses on the technical and chemical aspects of API production known as Process chemistry. eighteen submissions outline a broad spectrum of topics in Process chemistry: 1) company strategies in planning operations; 2) APi target and chemical
route evaluation; 3) chemical solutions to specific API targets; 4) technological methods for improving synthetic efficiency; 5) analytical methods for assessing safety in chemical operations; 6) educational opportunities at the academic/industry interface. Few of these topics arise in the
normal course of chemical studies at university, but all of them become frontline concerns to the chemist entering the job market. it is our hope to highlight Process chemistry and its challenges here in a way that brings home the excitement of this important pursuit.
Process Development for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Following a Developmental Cascade
Authors: Adler Carmen , Brunner Jürg , Fichtner Claudia , Küng Peter , Levis Michael K. , Ruchti Hans-Rudolf , Sjöberg Anders , Weber Beat
Published: October 2006

The developmental process for drug substances, as carried out in a medium-sized company is described. A cascade approach, ranging from route selection to commercial production and the corresponding intermediate steps, is discussed. A concerted teamwork is essential for optimal results,
and the roles and activities of the team members are outlined.
Process Development and Production Concepts for the Manufacturing of Organic Fine Chemicals at LONZA
Authors: Heckmann Golo , Previdoli Felix , Riedel Thomas , Ruppen David , Veghini Dario , Zacher Uwe
Published: October 2006

The constant improvement of efficiency in project development and manufacturing is an essential issue for companies operating in the organic fine chemicals field. Our strategy is based on the following concepts: (i) use of the whole high-technology portfolio available within the company,
(ii) organisation of the process development in a process-oriented way, (iii) acceleration of the process transfer from laboratory to manufacturing scale by omitting intermediate piloting stages and (iv) maximisation of productivity by a flexible organisation of production units. How these
concepts were implemented and which distribution of competencies within the R&D is needed, will be discussed in more detail in our contribution.
Recent Optimization Highlights of the Georgywood Process
Authors: Barras Jean-Pierre , Bourdin Bernadette , Schröder Fridtjof
Published: October 2006

Alternative procedures to the industrial process by which Georgywood® is presently prepared on a multiton scale have been investigated. These give the crucial homomyrcene precursor 5a and target compound 1 with greatly improved selectivities. Homomyrcene
5a was prepared with much better yield and selectivity by converting methylgeraniol 4 into an allylic carbonate, followed by a solvent-free palladium-catalyzed 1,4-elimination. In the final 1,5-diene cyclization, excellent selectivities were achieved by replacing Brønsted
acid H3PO4 by meAlcl2. This requires preparation, safety measures and an in-situ conversion of stoichiometric amounts of the pyrophoric Lewis acid. Recently, an in situ preparation of MeAICI2 from AIMe3 and its catalytic
use became possible.
An Asymmetric Synthesis of PPAR-? Agonist Navaglitazar from (+)-Methyl (2S,3R)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)glycidate
Authors: Rizzo John R. , Zhang Tony Y.
Published: October 2006

An asymmetric synthesis of navaglitazar, a peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) ? agonist, from commercially available (+)-methyl (2S,3R)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)glycidate, is described. The new synthesis features high overall yield, low solvent usage, crystalline intermediates
and operational simplicity.
The Chemical Development of CHIR-258
Authors: Zhu Shuguang , Zheng Minna , Diaz Brian , Yeung Arthur , Jin Li , Galvin Gabriel , Shang Xiao , Cai Shaopei , Harwood Eric , Ryckman David
Published: October 2006

This paper is a case history of the early stage chemical development of CHIR-258 (4-amino-5-fluoro-3-[6(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl]-2(1H)-quinolinone, DL-lactate salt), a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) kinase inhibitor for treatment of solid and hematologic
cancers. The article covers various aspects of work in chemical development. In particular we discuss evaluation of the medicinal chemistry route, scale-up, salt preparation, process impurities, in-process control (IPC) method development, supply route development, technology transfer to contract
manufacturing organization (CMO) and pilot plant production. Some interesting points regarding regulatory requirement for chemical development are also discussed.
An Improved Process for Repaglinide via an Efficient and One Pot Process of (1S)-3-methyl-1-(2-piperidin-1-ylphenyl)butan-1-amine – A Useful Intermediate
Authors: Kolla Naveenkumar , Elati Chandrashekar R. , Vankawala Pravinchandra J. , Gangula Srinivas , Sajja Eswaraiah , Anjaneyulu Yerremilli , Bhattacharya Apurba , Sundaram Venkataraman , Mathad Vijayavitthal T.
Published: October 2006

The development of a large-scale synthesis for (1S)-3-methyl-1-(2-piperidin-1-ylphenyl)butan-1-amine (S-(+)-1), a key intermediate of repaglinide (2), is described. The process conditions for S-(+)-1 involving nucleophilic substitution, Grignard
reaction, reduction and resolution were optimized and telescoped. The racemization of the undesired enantiomer R-(?)-1 offers a distinctive advantage in terms of cost and overall yield over the existing process. This communication also describes the control of a DcU byproduct
obtained during the condensation of S-(+)-1 with phenyl acetic acid derivative 3 in the synthesis of 2.
Continuous Chemistry in Microreaction Systems for Practical Use
Authors: Müller Gernot , Gaupp Theo , Wahl Fabian , Wille Gregor
Published: October 2006

Handling manufacturing processes in microstructured continuous systems offers a variety of benefits to chemical as well as process performance. In this report, representative examples are given for profits in general process development, high exothermic/hazardous reactions, handling
of products that are unstable under reaction conditions and product profile improvement. Specific focus was aimed at reasonable timeframes for 0.5–1 kg campaigns by using commercially available microreaction technology. After analyzing the individual contributions of flow technology,
we assembled a competitive minimal microreaction system comprising all essential parts for running effective continuous chemistry.
Simulated Moving Bed Technology for the Industrial Small and Mid Scale Separation of Racemates
Authors: Kaiser Patrick
Published: October 2006

Over the last decade in the fine chemical and pharmaceutical industry, simulated moving bed technology has become an import chromatographic method for the separation of racemates. In this report we describe the SMB principle along with its application for the small and mid scale separation
of binary mixtures. A practical approach to method development is presented with highlights on the factors that are critical for the design of a robust separation process and its expected productivity. An example of process optimization is also given in regard to the separation of racemic
Z-?-homo-alanine.
A case surviving for over a year of renal tubular dysgenesis with compound heterozygous angiotensinogen gene mutations
Authors: Uematsu Mitsugu , Sakamoto Osamu , Nishio Toshiyuki , Ohura Toshihiro , Matsuda Tadashi , Inagaki Tetsuji , Abe Takaaki , Okamura Kunihiro , Kondo Yoshiaki , Tsuchiya Shigeru
Published: October 2006

Renal tubular dysgenesis (RTD) is a developmental abnormality of the renal proximal tubules found in patients with Potter syndrome. We report a female newborn with RTD who has survived for more than 18 months. Infusions of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) in the early neonatal period were effective in raising and maintaining her blood pressure. Peritoneal dialysis was required until the appearance of spontaneous urination at 29 days after birth. Histopathological examinations of the kidney revealed dilated renal tubular lumina and foamy columnar epithelial cells in the renal tubules. Endocrinological studies showed a discrepancy between low plasma renin activity (<0.1 ng/ml/hr) and high active renin concentration (135,000 pg/ml), suggesting an aberration in the renin substrate, angiotensinogen. Direct sequencing analysis revealed two novel mutations in the coding region of the angiotensinogen gene (AGT): a nonsense mutation in exon 2 (c.604C > T) and a frameshift deletion at nucleotide 1290 in exon 5 (c.1290delT). The mutations were in the compound heterozygous state, because each parent had each mutation. These findings suggest that angiotensinogen deficiency is one of the causes of RTD. A treatment of the condition with FFP may help to promote long survival. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Formation and Stability of G‐Quadruplexes Self‐Assembled from Guanine‐Rich Strands
Authors: Zhou Jiang , Yuan Gu , Liu Junjun , Zhan Chang‐Guo
Published: October 2006

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) was utilized to investigate the formation and stability of G‐quadruplexes. For the 15 6‐nt oligonucleotides tested, ESI‐MS indicated that formation of a parallel tetramer quadruplex requires at least four continuous guanines in the 6‐nt sequence. In addition, the G‐rich strands prefer to employ “self‐association” in the formation of the G‐quadruplex rather than hybridized integration, and the thermodynamic‐stability order of these three G‐quadruplexes is Q(2)>Q(1)>Q(3).
Serial nuclear transfer improves the developmental potential of mouse embryos cloned from oocytes matured in a protein‐free medium
Authors: Bai Zhaodai , Yong Jun , Qing Tingting , Cheng Jing , Shen Wei , Ding Mingxiao , Deng Hongkui
Published: October 2006

Germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes matured in vitro are an alternative source for cytoplasmic recipients of nuclear transfer (NT). However, the developmental potential of oocytes matured in vitro is limited. In this study, we developed a protein‐free maturation medium for mouse GV oocytes. Following parthenogenetic activation, the oocytes matured in the protein‐free medium develop to blastocyst stage with a high efficiency, even up to the rate obtained from in vivo MII‐oocytes (90.6% vs. 92.8%). Using the oocytes matured in the protein‐free medium as the recipient, NT embryos develop to the blastocyst stage (17.6%). To further improve the developmental potential of NT embryos, we performed serial NT and compared the effect of three different activated cytoplasm samples derived from in vitro matured oocytes as the second recipient, that is, the effect of in vitro fertilized (IVF) zygote, the preactivated cytoplast and the IVF cytoplast, on the development of NT embryos. We found that when the pronucleus of NT zygote was transferred into the cytoplasm of the IVF zygote, the blastocyst formation increased to 39.4%. This is the first report to demonstrate the IVF zygote from oocytes matured in protein‐free medium can be used successfully as the recipient for serial NT to enhance the developmental potential of mouse NT embryos from oocytes matured in the protein‐free medium. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 560–567, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Feasibility of in vivo identification of endogenous ferritin with positive contrast MRI in rabbit carotid crush injury using GRASP
Authors: Mani Venkatesh , Briley‐Saebo Karen C. , Hyafil Fabien , Fayad Zahi A.
Published: October 2006

In vivo markers that allow for detection of ferritin within atheromatous plaque may be useful for identifying iron‐catalyzed hydroxyl‐radical formation and subsequent lipid peroxidation. Recently, a positive contrast MR technique—GRadient echo Acquisition for Superparamagnetic particles/suscePtibility (GRASP)—was used to identify the presence of magnetic entities in phantom models. The aim of the current study was to determine the feasibility of using GRASP in conjunction with conventional T‐weighted (TW) gradient‐echo (GRE) sequences for identifying ferritin/hemosiderin deposition using in vitro and in vivo models of thrombus. In vitro thrombi were prepared by incubating blood with ferritin. MRI was performed using conventional GRE sequences and GRASP. The results indicate that GRASP was able to verify ferritin deposition in in vitro thrombi. In vivo thrombi were created using a crush injury model in rabbits. The signal enhancement obtained using conventional GRE sequences and GRASP was compared with the location of iron deposition by histology. In all of the animals the GRASP signal correlated with signal loss by conventional GRE, and ferritin/hemosiderin deposition by histology. GRASP sequences in combination with conventional GRE sequences may be used to detect the presence of ferritin deposition in in vitro thrombi and in vivo crush‐injured rabbit carotid arteries. Magn Reson Med, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Polymer chemistry in flow: New polymers, beads, capsules, and fibers
Authors: Steinbacher Jeremy L. , McQuade D. Tyler
Published: October 2006

The union between polymer science and microfluidics is reviewed. Fluids in microreactors allow the synthesis of a wide range of polymeric materials with unique properties. We begin by discussing the important fluid dynamics that dominate the behavior of fluids on the micrometer scale. We then progress through a comprehensive analysis of the polymeric materials synthesized to date. This highlight concludes with an overview of the methods used to make microreactors. We enthusiastically endorse microreactors as a powerful approach to making materials with controlled properties, although we have tried to provide a critical eye to help the nonexpert enter the field. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 6505–6533, 2006
Theoretical study of structure and vibrational properties of MgnOn (n = 3–10) clusters
Authors: Qu Yuhui , Zhang Youzhong
Published: October 2006

The structure and harmonic vibrations of MgnOn (n = 3–10) clusters have been investigated using density functional theory. All structures are found to be cumulenic Dnh rings (equal bonds, alternating angles), with one intense out‐of‐plane mode and three infrared (IR)‐active degenerate modes, of which the highest one is extremely intense and increases asymptotically to 1000 cm−1 for n = 10 at the B3LYP/6‐311++G(2d,2p) level. Comparisons with C2n clusters show that BnNn and BenOn clusters, the structure and bonding type for the MgnOn clusters are consistent with those of the C2n (n = 3, 5, 7,…) clusters BnNn(n = 3–10) and BenOn(n = 3–10) clusters. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Agent‐community‐based peer‐to‐peer information retrieval and its evaluation
Authors: Mine Tsunenori , Kogo Akihiro , Amamiya Makoto
Published: October 2006

The Agent‐Community‐based Peer‐to‐Peer (ACP2P) information retrieval method uses agent communities to manage and look up information of interest to users. An agent works as a delegate of its user and searches for information that the user wants by communicating with other agents. The communication between agents is carried out in a peer‐to‐peer computing architecture. Retrieving information relevant to a user query is performed with content files which consist of original and retrieved documents, and two histories: a query/retrieved document history and a query/sender agent history. Making use of the histories has a collaborative filtering effect, which gradually creates virtual agent communities, where agents with the same interests stay together. Our hypothesis is that a virtual agent community reduces communication loads necessary to perform a search. As an agent receives more queries, then more links to new knowledge are acquired. From this behavior, a “give‐and‐take” (or positive feedback) effect for agents seems to emerge. However, we have only shown parts of the effects of reducing communication loads and making “give‐and‐take” through preliminary experimental results.

This paper discusses more detail of experimental results and shows that the two histories help in reducing communication loads among agents, facilitating bidirectional communications between them and thus creating virtual agent communities, where agents with the same interests stay together. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 37(13): 1– 10, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20625
A model of plant‐to‐plant movement of aphids III. Studies of actual movement and apparent movement by simulation technique
Authors: Shiyomi Masae
Published: October 2006

The plant‐to‐plant movement of aphids was investigated by the simulation technique in this report. Trials satisfying the following conditions are repeated and the results are compared withShiyomi's model (1967).

An arbitrary individual moves at any moment.

The individual moves straightly forward an arbitrary direction and climbs up the plant that he first encounters with.

There is no concentrative birth and death.

Some of the results are as follows:

For an ideal state of movement, an equation describing the relationship between the frequency of actual movement and the degree of changes in the spatial distribution by movement was obtained.

The actual movements, whose frequency we cannot count, changes the spatial distribution of insects, and this change can be evaluated by the changes of values of the parameters contained inShiyomi's model. Using the statement (i), we can also estimate the frequency of movements of aphids in the ideal (extreme) state.
An analysis of the predator‐prey system in the paddy field
Authors: Kiritani Keizi , Kakiya Naotoshi
Published: October 2006

A predator‐prey system involving Lycosa pseudoannulata as predators and both the green rice leafhopper, Nephotettix cincticeps and the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens as prey was studied in an experimental paddy field. Daily predation rates on the prey and weekly disappearance rates of Lycosa females were related to densities of both predators and prey by multiple regression. During the off‐season of reproduction for predators and prey, it proved possible to simulate the interaction between Lycosa and its prey.
Potential for suppressing Diprion similis (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae) with pheromone trapping: A population model
Authors: Mertins J. W. , Coppel H. C. , Karandinos M. G.
Published: October 2006

The virgin female introduced pine sawfly, Diprion similis (Hartig), produces a powerful sex pheromone capable of attracting males. Pending chemical identification of the substance, a pilot study in male annihilation is under consideration. A mathematical model was developed to assess the feasibility of population suppression using pheromone‐baited traps. Departure from preexisting population models resulted chiefly from the arrhenotokous nature of the sawfly. The model predicts alternating sawfly generations which undergo first a large shift in the sex ratio but no population reduction, followed by a large decrease in population size with a moderating sex ratio. Four generations of intensive trapping would theoretically be sufficient to eliminate the sawfly from an isolated area.
A further note on the estimation of a fitness function from two samples taken from a popolation
Authors: Manly B. F. J.
Published: October 2006

A modification is proposed for the moments method for estimating a fitness function that was discussed in an earlier paper (Manly, 1976b). This modification ensures that fitness estimates are always positive. The theory has been worked out for a fitness function of any number of variables and a computer program has been written to carry out the iterative calculations needed for estimation.
A systems model and computer simulation of the green rice leafhopper populations in control programmes
Authors: Sasaba Takafumi , Kiritani Keizi
Published: October 2006

A simulation model of the green rice leafhopper‐spiders system was presented. The validity of this model for simulation purpose was tested by comparing the calculated values with observed ones (Fig. 4). The effectiveness of various control measures against leafhoppers was evaluated by computer simulations. The computer simulation demonstrated that the wrong use of selective insecticide, contrary to expectation, brought an increase in the pest density, i. e., that the egg densities of leafhoppers in the 2nd and 3rd generations are increased by the insecticidal application in February, while they are decreased by the July application (Table 2). To obtain satisfactory control by sterile‐male release, 320,000 sterile‐male per square kilometer should be released even in the combined use with insecticides (Fig. 5). The escape of leafhoppers from predation by spiders was demonstrated by the simulation. It is suggested that spiders are able to suppress the leafhopper populations at a low density when there is a very favorable balance between spiders and leafhoppers, and this condition may be realized by sophisticated use of selective insecticides (Fig. 6). Factors and/or processes which have to be involved in a more improved systems model are discussed.
The species‐area relation II. A second model for continuous sampling
Authors: Kobayashi Shiro
Published: October 2006

A second mathematical model describing the species‐area relation was proposed for continuous expanding of sample area. This model is expressed as S=λ ln(1+x/E) where S is the number of species occurring in an area x, and λ and E are the constants termed specific diversity and elemental area respectively. As a result of testing the validity of the model for several sets of data, it was shown that the above equation would provide an adequate fit to a group of species belonging to a single synusia which exists in an open habitat.

The ecological implications of parameters involved were discussed and the characteristic area presented previously (Kobayashi, 1974) was defined in terms of E. The relation between results obtained by discrete sampling and continuous sampling was examined and the possibility of converting one to another was suggested.
The population dynamics of the large pine aphid, Cinara pinea (Mordv.)
Authors: Kidd N. A. C.
Published: October 2006

The large pine aphid, Cinara pinea lives exclusively on Pinus species, where it feeds on the foliated shoots of the current and previous year. The paper describes the development of a computer model designed to simulate the aphid's population dynamics on saplings in the controlled environment of the laboratory, i.e. in the absence of natural enemies. The model was able to account for about 80% of the variation in aphid numbers within and between trees over a three month period. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the number of pine aphids is limited primarily by nymphal emigration, the operation of which is sensitive both to density and to plant quality as reflected in aphid growth rates. Of secondary importance are changes in reproduction acting through increased reproductive delay, again a result of altered growth rates and adult size. Development, too, has an important secondary influence. Contrary to expectation and conventional belief, however, alate production proved to be of negligible importance, either in limiting or regulating population numbers. Alatae are produced in too few numbers and for too short a period to significantly alter the pattern of population change.