bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The overall effect of research years, rootstocks, and cultivars on the morphological attributes of pear trees
Authors: FAIZI Zaki Ahmad , ÖZTÜRK Ahmet
Published: February 2024

This research was conducted to determine the combined effect of 3 factors including rootstocks, cultivars, and research years on the morphological characteristics in Samsun/Türkiye ecological conditions in the research years of 2021 and 2022. Eight rootstocks consisting of quince BA29 (BA29), quince A (QA), FOX9, FOX11, OHxF333, OHxF87, FAROLD40, and European pear seedlings were used in the study, while the cultivars were 'Santa Maria', 'Williams', and 'Deveci'. The study results revealed the significance of the combined factors on all leaf characteristics of European pear. While rootstock diameter, scion diameter, tree length, and trunk cross-sectional area showed insignificant variations. It was determined that the canopy characteristics of ‘Williams' pear cultivar in combination with the FAROLD40 and OHxF333 in the research year 2022 were higher than other combinations, while the same combination was obtained with lower values in the case of other morphological characteristics. Generally, all the morphological attributes were obtained higher in the rootstocks and cultivars combination in the research year of 2022. In conclusion, the genetic capacity of rootstocks, cultivars, and variations of the climate situations in two consequent research years, resulted in variations in the morphological attributes of pear trees.
La littérature où on ne l’attend pas
Authors: Guilet Anaïs
Published: February 2024

Cet article de type essai a pour objectif de démontrer l’éclatement des formes littéraires par les dispositifs numériques à travers l’analyse de deux oeuvres dont les supports médiatiques n’engagent pas originellement la littérature : soit la console de jeu vidéo avec What Remains of Edith Finch de Ian Dallas, mais aussi un réseau transmédia impliquant Twitter, Spotify, une édition papier et des expositions à travers Le Madeleine Project de Clara Beaudoux. Nous analyserons les enjeux narratifs et fictionnels de chacune de ces oeuvres, connues des amateur·ice·s, afin d’en démontrer la dimension éminemment heuristique (Bouchardon, 2014). Elles proposent autant de points d’entrée pour des questions narratologiques et médiatiques pointues qui engagent l’ensemble de nos définitions du champ littéraire. Les chercheur·se·s s’emploient fréquemment à catégoriser ces formes et à les désigner par une pluralité de néologismes : Twittérature (Fréchette, Côté, 2013), Littératube (Bonnet, Thérond, 2018), Littérature exposée (Rosenthal, Ruffel, 2010), comme autant de tentatives de cerner ces nouveaux territoires, cet écosystème littéraire évolutif et inédit, mais il semble que ce que ces oeuvres permettent de montrer avant tout est l’éminente vitalité de la création comme de l’analyse littéraire. Cette dernière propose des outils toujours actuels pour aborder les expériences de lecture telles qu’elles se déploient désormais sur une pluralité de supports, y compris les consoles de jeux vidéo et RSN vers lesquels se dirigent désormais massivement les publics jeunes (comme moins jeunes).
Regards de didacticiennes de la littérature sur les écrits en réseaux de lecteurs
Authors: Moinard Pierre
Published: February 2024

L’article étudie cinq publications récentes qui, en didactique de la littérature, portent sur des usages scolaires d’espaces numériques pour entretenir des échanges entre lecteurs-scripteurs, à des niveaux d’enseignement différents. La méta-analyse interroge les enrichissements théoriques avancés pour rendre compte de la diversité des écrits de lecteurs sur la Toile et des effets de leurs didactisations. La comparaison des cadres théoriques, des méthodologies, et des interprétations de résultats montre deux convergences majeures, en dépit de la variété des terrains étudiés par les chercheuses. D’une part, les recherches examinées documentent un tissage des discours asynchrones et synchrones, au service, parfois, de relances réflexives. D’autre part, ces recherches apportent des informations nouvelles sur la temporalité des apprentissages littéraires en collaboration.
The causal effects of circulating cytokines on sepsis: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Fang Weijun , Chai Chen , Lu Jiawei
Published: February 2024

Background

In observational studies, sepsis and circulating levels of cytokines have been associated with unclear causality. This study used Mendelian randomization (MR) to identify the causal direction between circulating cytokines and sepsis in a two-sample study.

Methods

An MR analysis was performed to estimate the causal effect of 41 cytokines on sepsis risk. The inverse-variance weighted random-effects method, the weighted median-based method, and MR-Egger were used to analyze the data. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were assessed using MR-Egger regression and Cochran’s Q statistic.

Results

Genetically predicted beta-nerve growth factor (OR = 1.12, 95% CI [1.037–1.211], P = 0.004) increased the risk of sepsis, while RANTES (OR = 0.92, 95% CI [0.849–0.997], P = 0.041) and fibroblast growth factor (OR = 0.869, 95% CI [0.766–0.986], P = 0.029) reduced the risk of sepsis. These findings were robust in extensive sensitivity analyses. There was no clear association between the other cytokines and sepsis risk.

Conclusion

The findings of this study demonstrate that beta-nerve growth factor, RANTES, and fibroblast growth factor contribute to sepsis risk. Investigations into potential mechanisms are warranted.
Sobre una economía
Authors: Andonie Catalina
Published: February 2024

No presenta resumen
Governance and sustainability in brazilian electricity companies
Authors: Oliveira Isaac Gezer Silva de
Published: February 2024

O contexto econômico atual exige responsabilidade socioambiental e políticas de governança corporativa para alinhar os interesses entre os diferentes participantes sociais em grandes corporações. Portanto, e baseado na hipótese de que a criação de valor corporativo está positivamente associada a boas práticas de governança e sustentabilidade empresarial, este estudo busca analisar a relação entre desempenho e governança e responsabilidade social à luz da Teoria da Agência e da Teoria dos Stakeholders. A investigação foi realizada em empresas listadas na Bolsa de Valores de São Paulo para o setor de energia elétrica, que consiste em um setor de alto impacto ambiental e social. Para a análise dos dados, foram utilizados modelos de regressão linear com dados em painel pelo método de Efeitos Aleatórios e pelo método de Momentos Sistêmicos Generalizados (GMM-Sys). Os resultados da investigação sugerem que empresas com práticas adequadas de governança e responsabilidade social possuem maior valor de mercado. Pode-se concluir que tais práticas, além de atender a preceitos éticos, legais e da sociedade, contribuem para a criação de valor corporativo.
Gestão pública de turismo no litoral de São Paulo
Authors: Lopes dos Santos Aristides Faria
Published: February 2024

Este artigo tem sua origem em uma pesquisa descritiva e explicativa, com abordagem qualitativa, cujo objetivo geral de analisar as relações de hospitalidade e hostilidade entre o poder público e seus múltiplos stakeholders, no contexto específico do setor de viagens e turismo no litoral paulista, relações que parecem ser determinantes para o incremento da competitividade regional. A partir dos resultados colhidos pode-se verificar que é recorrente (e cada vez mais consistente) a percepção de que a competitividade das destinações turísticas passa pela garantia da sustentabilidade (em todas suas vertentes) e a manutenção da produtividade ao longo do tempo. Aspectos como coordenação, integração e colaboração são reiteradamente mencionados na discussão teórica. As evidências apontam que oferecer hospitalidade (e não apenas serviços) se mostrou estratégico, e o estudo de casos múltiplos realizado corroborou essa conclusão.
Palavras-chave: Competitividade; hospitalidade; hostilidade; São Paulo; stakeholders; turismo.
Especializações e concentrações no mercado de trabalho capixaba
Authors: Lino Leandro De Souza
Published: February 2024

Este artigo procura avaliar os níveis de especialização e/ou de concentração no mercado de trabalho entre as microrregiões do Espírito Santo. Para tanto foram utilizadas informações sobre as quantidades de empregos formais em cada uma das microrregiões do estado a partir de dados da Relação Anual de Informações Sociais. Entre os indicadores utilizados encontram-se o Quociente Locacional, o Coeficiente de Especialização e o Índice de Theil, que permitem determinar o nível de diversificação e/ou especialização em cada microrregião do Espírito Santo entre 2006 e 2018. Para esse período puderam ser obtidos os dados mais detalhados para empregos formais e PIB regionais. Visando subsidiar a discussão, foram utilizadas referências que tratam de desenvolvimento regional e mercado de trabalho. Com base nos resultados obtidos, constata-se que a microrregião Metropolitana não apenas é aquela em que se verifica a maior concentração e diversificação econômica, mas também a que tem um desempenho mais próximo da realidade do estado. As demais microrregiões caracterizam-se por um alto nível de concentração e/ou especialização em determinadas atividades, mas cada qual com sua particularidade.
Palavras-chave: Atividade econômica; concentração; desenvolvimento regional; especialização; Espírito Santo; mercado de trabalho.
BNCC, desenvolvimento e interdisciplinaridade
Authors: Birkner Walter Marcos Knaesel , Barbosa Ana Clarisse Alencar
Published: February 2024

Este artigo sugere abordagem aproximativa entre educação e desenvolvimento, através da interdisciplinaridade, e sob a orientação dos pressupostos da Base Nacional Comum Curricular – BNCC. Sua abordagem é direcionada às chamadas Humanidades, sugerindo a inserção da temática do desenvolvimento e de sua variante regional, através de temas que enfatizem a economia e a formação da cidadania, incrementando uma concepção de Sociologia do Desenvolvimento Regional. Trata-se, assim, de um texto eminentemente propositivo, confluindo uma análise preliminar com um caráter minimamente normativo. Assim, o presente texto se caracteriza em função de uma assumida defesa do desenvolvimento regional nas abordagens das Ciências Humanas para uma educação republicana, que permita expandir a cultura democrática e produtiva, ao mesmo tempo regional e universal.
Palavras-chave: Base Nacional Comum Curricular; Ciências Humanas; desenvolvimento regional; interdisciplinaridade.
Acumulação de capital versus espaço em Santa Catarina
Authors: Lins Hoyêdo Nunes
Published: February 2024

Reprodução social rima com incessante reorganização espacial da vida em sociedade, tempo e espaço devendo ser considerados juntamente na análise das manifestações humanas. Pensado como um continuum, isso significa que a sociedade se recria sobre bases herdadas, como as formas espaciais socialmente produzidas, e que a organização espacial reflete o tipo de sociedade de que se trata. A influência, todavia, é recíproca: relações sociais produzem espaço, e este as afeta, dialeticamente. Este artigo explora esse assunto postulando que a espacialidade da acumulação de capital é determinada, principalmente, por fatores econômicos, mormente, os produtivos, embora a esfera política também impacte. Na análise dessa espacialidade, deve-se identificar os vínculos que lhe caracterizam, preservando os internos ou necessários e desconsiderando os externos ou contingentes, por supérfluos. A pesquisa focaliza situações catarinenses de reconfiguração espacial da produção: movimentos de “saída”, na agroindústria de carnes, envolvendo a então empresa Perdigão, e de “entrada”, na indústria automotiva, dizendo respeito à montadora da BMW em Araquari.
Palavras-chave: Acumulação de capital; agroindústria de carnes; indústria automotiva; reconfiguração espacial, Santa Catarina.
A maldição dos recursos minerais na Amazônia brasileira: desindustrialização e o Projeto Grande Carajás
Authors: Barcelos Tiago Soares , Mota Loyslene De Freitas
Published: February 2024

Esse trabalho analisa a exploração mineral a partir do Projeto Grande Carajás, situado na mesorregião sudeste do Pará, uma das últimas fronteiras de exploração de recursos naturais do capitalismo moderno. A metodologia consistiu em uma revisão bibliográfica crítica, adotando-se uma perspectiva fenomenológica, visando captar as relações e tensões entre Estado, empresas, sociedade e ambiente natural. Buscou-se verificar se as instituições (públicas e privadas) estão comprometidas com o desenvolvimento da região ou apenas com crescimento econômico de curto prazo. Pelos dados analisados, pode-se inferir que o Brasil e a região em questão estão acometidos pela doença holandesa, que favorece a desindustrialização brasileira. Conclui-se que devido às formas permissivas e as políticas públicas extrativistas por parte do Estado, que desconsideram os interesses da sociedade e o ambiente natural, o Projeto Grande Carajás configura uma maldição dos recursos naturais. Portanto, os empreendimentos em questão não contribuem para o desenvolvimento regional, recriando enclaves econômicos perversos para a sociedade.
Palavras-chave: Desenvolvimento regional; desindustrialização; doença holandesa; mineração; Projeto Grande Carajás.
Análise multivariada da heterogeneidade produtiva da agropecuária brasileira
Authors: Cavalcante Filho Pedro Gilberto , Buainain Antônio Márcio , Cunha Marcelo Pereira
Published: February 2024

Este trabalho tem o objetivo de avaliar a heterogeneidade produtiva na agropecuária brasileira, explorando as características dos estabelecimentos agropecuários em três eixos de análise: Estrutura Agrária e Econômica, Modernidade e Tecnológico. Especificamente, busca-se mapear as diferenças regionais dos produtores rurais brasileiros e identificar se existe um padrão de distribuição pelo território nacional. A metodologia utilizada foi uma análise exploratória e multivariada de clusters, que considerou um conjunto de variáveis atribuídas aos estabelecimentos agropecuários em nível microrregional e disponibilizadas pelo Censo Agropecuário 2017. As variáveis utilizadas foram relacionadas aos eixos determinados e construídas a partir da revisão de pesquisas que avaliaram o contexto das diferenças produtivas e de perfil dos produtores no setor agropecuário. Os resultados reforçam a ideia de um setor agropecuário heterogêneo, mesmo nos diferentes eixos. Ademais, a distribuição geográfica dos estabelecimentos agropecuários em agrupamentos pelo território nacional demonstra diferentes padrões e configurações de acordo com o perfil agrário e econômico, o acesso a estruturas de modernidade e a tecnologias. A pesquisa fornece elementos para conhecer a configuração recente da agropecuária brasileira.
Palavras-chave: Análise multivariada; Brasil; clusters; desenvolvimento rural; estrutura agrícola; heterogeneidade produtiva.
Determinants of Customer Engagement: Role of User-Generated Content
Authors: Galib Mohammad Hasan , AL-Haddad Hadeel , Al-Amad Amjad , Hailat Khaled Qassem , Bazi Saleh
Published: February 2024

This study aims to investigate the role of User-Generated Content (UGC) in customer engagement by identifying the factors that influence customer engagement on social commerce sites. Data (n=307) were collected through an online survey. The data analysis was done through factor analysis and multiple regression. The research model was developed using Ducoffe’s [1] model. The result of data analysis reveals that Informativeness, Credibility, Relevancy, and Irritation of the UGC influence people’s perception of the value of the UGC, which will eventually lead to customer engagement intention. Entertainment was not able to contribute to the perceived value of UGC. The finding of this study will help marketers develop a strong brand by identifying the factors that encourage customers to participate in creating UGC. This study was the first study that used Ducoffe's [1] model to examine the role of UGC on customer engagement.
Advertising value of online advertisement on sustainable brand purchase intention: The moderating role of user-generated video among Gen Z in Malaysia
Authors: Hasbullah Nornajihah Nadia , Kiflee Ag Kaifah Riyard , Ramachandran KK , Anwar Saiful , Sulaiman Zuraidah
Published: February 2024

The global population post-pandemic has fuelled the sustainability movement worldwide where consumers have transitioned from offline to online businesses. Increased sustainable users lead to businesses actively promoting their products using online advertisements. Nonetheless, research on the advertising value of online ads and their effect on sustainable customers remains scarce. Hence, this study aims to increase understanding of online advertisement value by applying the Ducoffe advertising value model. Specifically, the factors that determine customers’ advertising value based on credibility, perceived entertainment, and informativeness were examined using user-generated video (UGV) as a moderator. Data were gathered from 250 sustainable product customers in Malaysia, while the proposed conceptual model was assessed using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method. The findings revealed a significant direct relationship between informativeness and a significant indirect relationship between UGV in advertisements towards sustainable product purchase intention. Conversely, no significant relationship on credibility and perceived entertainment was discovered. The results significantly contribute to sustainability literature and advertisement strategy implications.
Beyond Community Health Service Provision: Assessing the Knowledge Attitude and Practice of Eye Care among Beneficiaries of an Intervention in an Inner-City Community in Lagos Metropolis
Authors: Fajola Akinwumi , Olabumuyi Olayide , Alali Aloni , Adetula Bunmi , Ogbimi Rebecca , Akenge Suodei
Published: February 2024

Background: A higher burden of preventable visual impairment has been reported in regions with poor knowledge of eye care, non-availability of or poor uptake of available screening services. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practices as well as factors associated with eyecare among the residents of an inner-city community in Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study using simple random sampling technique to select 254 consenting participants from a community on Lagos Island. Data was collected electronically using Microsoft office forms and analyzed with SPSS version 23. Frequencies, proportions and tables were used for descriptive analysis. Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were done to identify predictors of the outcome variables.

Results: More of the respondents (52.4% and 61.4%) were middle-aged and female respectively with a mean age of 49.7±16.6 years. About 61.0% of them use prescription eyeglasses, 69.3% had a good knowledge of the importance of routine eye checks. Good attitude and practice of eye care were reported among 78.7% and 68.5% respectively. Respondents with a tertiary level of education were more likely to have a good attitude (OR=2.8; 95% CI=1.115-7.120) and good practice OR=2.7; 95% CI=1.207-5.869) versus lower educational levels.

Conclusion: This study revealed that efforts to increase access to education, particularly in low-income areas, can contribute to improved attitudes and practices related to eye health care. Addressing gaps in knowledge and promoting regular eye check-ups were seen to be essential steps toward achieving better eye health outcomes in Nigeria and similar settings.
Stabilizing Error Correction Mechanism in the Presence of Explosiveness
Authors: Modupe O. Abifarin  , Audu Isah  , Yisa Yakubu  , Rasheed A. Adeyemi
Published: February 2024

In the presence of explosiveness of the adjustment term in the error correction model, the adjustment of the dependent variable Y was too large and overshoots the equilibrium, creating a divergent pattern. The error correction model fails to capture the deviation from equilibrium appropriately, thereby resulting in overshooting of the model. In this paper, a new model to stabilize the explosiveness in an Error Correction model called the stabilizing Error Correction Mechanism was proposed. Mathematical methodology for obtaining the estimate of the model using the Ordinal Least Square method was derived. Error Correction model was used to model the relationship among the variables and the result was compared with the Stabilizing Error Correction Mechanism using root mean square error. A Monte-Carlo simulation was performed, and the stimulation results showed that the error correction model exhibited some explosiveness, and the damping coefficient of the stabilizing model exerted a stabilizing effect on the error correction mechanism, thereby reducing the overshooting in the error correction model. The proposed model contributed to a smoother and more stable response to deviations from the long-run equilibrium. The root mean square error of the stabilizing Error Correction model was observed to be 1.30663, 1.04533, 12.55786, 10.49876, 10.0034, and 19.41545 as compared to the adjustment model in the Error Correction model (60.6888, 35.5929, 315238, 24.31958, 10.1485 and 19.7687) when the persistence is high and . Therefore, the Stabilizing Error Correction model performs better than the Error Correction model.
Molecular Epidemiology of Plasmodium falciparum Infections Using PCR-based Assays in Jos, Nigeria-cross-sectional Study
Authors: Fakdul Timloh , Gaknung Shangshikmwa K. , Simon Mercy O. , Nwankwo Nelson J. , Paul Joel , Jagab Hafsat S. , ThankGod Daniel G. , Davou Dinci T. , Mankilik Mary M. , Kutshik Richard J. , Yakubu Bitrus , Longdet Ishaya Y.
Published: February 2024

Background: Malaria remains a significant health threat globally, with Plasmodium falciparum being the predominant and lethal parasite in Africa. Nigeria is still faced with ongoing cases of asymptomatic malaria, hindering effective control measures.

Aim: The aim was to generate epidemiological data that will provide good background and guide strategies for driving malaria control efforts, research, and resource allocation in the region.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, where the samples were originally collected within about 16 months between October 2019 and January 2021.

Methodology: A cross-sectional molecular epidemiological study was conducted using 136 microscopically screened 2 plus (++) and above positive malarial whole blood samples obtained in EDTA bottles from two hospitals in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. The DNA extraction was performed according to the manufacturer's instructions using Zymo Research extraction kits. Plasmodium genus and Plasmodium falciparum were detected in the samples using the PCR method and gel electrophoresis.

Results: In the results, using PCR techniques, 47.8% (65/136) of the total malaria-positive samples collected were confirmed for the presence of the Plasmodium genus. Out of these 65 positive samples, 63 were found to be Plasmodium falciparum.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Plasmodium falciparum remains the predominant malaria species in Jos, Plateau State, comprising approximately 96.9% (63/65) of the malarial cases. This indicates that only about 3% of malaria cases affecting the residents of Jos, Plateau State might be caused by the other four species of malaria parasites (Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, and Plasmodium knowlesi).
Adolescent Female with Acute-onset Abdominal Pain
Authors: Rashidzada Parwaiz , Guevarra Rolando , Muntean Cornelia
Published: February 2024

Background: Sigmoid volvulus is a more common cause of abdominal pain in geriatric patients. It is an uncommon cause for a pediatric patient, especially when dealing with an adolescent patient. Here we discuss an uncommon presentation of sigmoid volvulus.

Case Description: A 14-year-old female presents with sudden-onset abdominal pain found to have sigmoid volvulus on CT imaging. She eventually underwent sigmoidoscopy for reduction and was monitored for 24 hours post-procedure.

Conclusion: This case demonstrates the importance of having a high index of suspicion when a patient presents with volvulus, especially with adolescence. Although rare, it should always be on the differential due to its high rate of mortality if diagnosed late.
Characterization of Indigenous Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates and Toxicity Analysis Against Brinjal Shoot and Fruit Borer, Leucinodes orbonalis (Guenee)
Authors: Thirisha K. S. , Balasubramani V. , Murugan M. , Kokiladevi E. , Saraswathi T.
Published: February 2024

The toxins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) exhibit significant promise in managing specific orders of harmful insects without the drawbacks in using of chemical insecticides. This study examines 20 indigenous Bt isolates, with a focus on their colony and crystal morphology, gene content, protein profiles, and toxicity against the larvae of Leucinodes orbonalis. The results revealed that all colonies were creamy white in colour with fried egg type appearance, flat surface, and undulated margin with spherical shaped crystals. PCR screening detected the existence of cry1, cry2, and vip3A genes with varying gene combinations among the isolates. Protein profiles exhibited the presence of multiple proteins with molecular weights ranging from 20 to 135 kDa, particularly ~135 and ~65 kDa represents Cry1 and Cry2 protein. In vitro bioassays against L. orbonalis revealed that four isolates T193, T339, T374, and T380 having substantial toxicity (93.33 to 100% mortality), suggesting the potential for their utilization in sustainable pest management strategies.
Millets for Food and Nutrition Security: A Review
Authors: Pandey Mridula , Singh Sadhna , Tripathi Rahul , Mishra Ayush , P. K. Singh  , Tiwari Himanshu , Dwivedi Prashant , Kumar Suneel
Published: February 2024

Millets are a species of grass plants with small grains that have a remarkable ability to endure severe drought and play an important role in many regions of the country's dietary patterns. Millets possess an abundance amount of minerals, dietary fibre and phytochemicals which makes them nutritionally superior to conventional food grains. Millet also has a high antioxidant capacity and nutraceutical content, which can help prevent oxidative stress-related disorders like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Millets have been shown to provide a variety of physiological benefits such as free radical scavenging activity, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and anti-diabetic properties. Soaking, germination, malting, decortication, and boiling of millets serve to reduce anti-nutritional elements while improving digestibility and nutritional content. Millet is a potentially tremendous crop but under-explored as compared to cereals. Enhancing the consumption of millets would help in addressing the problem of nutritional security, hidden hunger and combating oxidative stress-induced disorders in developing countries.
Enhancing Sustainable Crop Production through Innovations in Precision Agriculture Technologies
Authors: Naresh Ram , Singh N K , Sachan Prashun , Mohanty Lalita Kumar , Sahoo Sweta , Pandey Shivam Kumar , Singh Barinderjit
Published: February 2024

Precision agriculture technologies provide innovative tools to optimize crop production while minimizing environmental impacts. This review examines recent advances in precision ag systems to enhance sustainable agriculture. Key innovations include: remote and proximal crop sensing techniques leveraging hyperspectral imaging, thermal imaging, and Lidar to assess crop health and stress status; variable rate technologies like targeted sprayers and precision planters to reduce input waste; data analytics and decision support systems that integrate multi-source data streams to guide site-specific intervention; robotics and automation for precision field operations; and advanced breeding techniques and genomic tools enabling development of stress resilient, high yielding varieties. Adoption barriers, future technology trajectories, and priority research needs are discussed to further advance precision solutions that support productivity, efficiency, and sustainability goals.
Description of the Encampments on the Hill of Burnswork
Authors: Contributor Anonymous
Published: February 2024

Expecting that observations on subjects of antiquity will be received by your Society, though transmitted by persons unconnected with it, I have taken the liberty offending to you the following account. It may perhaps be esteemed imperfect by those who examine the spot. If the Society send any one for that purpose, I shall be well pleased. I wish to see the antiquities of my country investigated; and will be happy to contribute my assistance, if it will be of any service to a Society, the professed purpose of which, is to pursue that branch of knowledge.
Report upon the preceding Paper, etc.
Authors: Dick Alexander
Published: February 2024

To the President and Society of the Antiquaries of Scotland, SIR ALEXANDER DICK presents his respectful compliments: He regrets that his advanced age prevents him from attending their meetings; but he feels the strongest disposition to promote, as much as in his power, their admirable plans for the benefit of our country.
Multicomponent mass transport model for the sorption of metal ions on bone char
Authors: Ko Danny C. K. , Porter John F. , McKay Gordon
Published: August 2004

The sorption of binary mixtures of copper/cadmium and copper/zinc ions onto bone char was studied in fixed beds. The effects of solution flow rate, initial dye concentration, and bone char particle size range were investigated. A mass transport model based on film‐surface diffusion and the IAS model for the equilibrium relationship was used to develop theoretical fixed‐bed breakthrough curves. The model incorporates the Sips isotherm for the first time in fixed‐bed predictions, since this isotherm gives an excellent correlation of the experimental equilibrium data. The model was used to determine the optimum surface diffusivities as 7.37 × 10−10 and 2.73 × 10−9 cm2/s for copper and cadmium in the Cu/Cd system; and 1.61 × 10−9 and 2.43 × 10−9 cm2/s for copper and zinc in the Cu/Zn system. © 2004 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 50: 2130–2141, 2004
Reassessment of the Proteus syndrome literature: Application of diagnostic criteria to published cases
Authors: Turner Joyce T. , Cohen M. Michael , Biesecker Leslie G.
Published: August 2004

The medical care of patients affected by rare disorders depends heavily on experiences garnered from prior cases, including those patients evaluated by the treating physician and those published in the medical literature. The utility of published cases is wholly dependent upon accurate diagnosis of those patients. In our experience, the rate of misdiagnosis in Proteus syndrome (PS) is high. Diagnostic criteria have been published, but these criteria have not been applied consistently and were published after many case reports appeared in the literature. We reviewed 205 cases of individuals reported to have PS in the literature and three of us independently applied the diagnostic criteria to these case reports. Our initial diagnostic congruence was 97.1% (199/205); the discrepancies in six cases were easily resolved. Only 97 (47.3%) of reported cases met the diagnostic criteria for PS; 80 cases (39%) clearly did not meet the criteria; and although 28 cases (13.7%) had features suggestive of PS, there were insufficient clinical data to make a diagnosis. Reported cases that met the PS criteria had a higher incidence of premature death, and other complications (scoliosis, megaspondyly, central nervous system abnormalities, tumors, otolaryngologic complications, pulmonary cystic malformations, dental and ophthalmogic complications) compared to those in the non‐Proteus group. The cases that met the criteria were more often male, which has implications for hypotheses regarding the etiology and pathophysiology of PS. We also studied the attributes that led authors to conclude the reported patients had PS when we concluded they did not. We found that two of the diagnostic criteria (disproportionate overgrowth and connective tissue nevi) were often misinterpreted. In PS, the abnormal growth is asymmetric, distorting, relentless, and occurred at a faster rate compared to the rest of the body. Furthermore, PS was associated with irregular and disorganized bone, including hyperostoses, hyperproliferation of osteoid with variable calcification, calcified connective tissue, and elongation of long bones with abnormal thinning. In contrast, non‐Proteus cases displayed overgrowth that was asymmetric but grew at a rate similar to the growth found in unaffected areas of the body. Also, the overgrowth in non‐Proteus cases was associated with normal or enlarged bones together with ballooning of the overlying soft tissues. Taken together, these data show that (1) PS diagnostic criteria sort individuals with asymmetric overgrowth into distinct groups; (2) individuals with PS were more likely to have serious complications; (3) PS affects more males than females; and 4) the published diagnostic criteria are useful for clinical care and research. This article contains supplementary material, which may be viewed at the American Journal of Medical Genetics website at http://www.interscience.wiley.com/jpages/0148‐7299/suppmat/index.html. Published 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Family‐based association study between autism and glutamate receptor 6 gene in Chinese Han trios
Authors: Shuang Mei , Liu Jing , Jia Mei Xiang , Yang Jian Zhong , Wu Su Ping , Gong Xiao Hong , Ling Yan Su , Ruan Yan , Yang Xiao Ling , Zhang Dai
Published: August 2004

The glutamate pathways are involved in diverse processes such as learning and memory, epilepsy, and they play important roles in neural plasticity, neural development, and neurodegeneration. It has been proposed that autism could be a hypoglutamatergic disorder. Recently, Jamain et al. [Mol Psychiatry 7:302–310] reported that the glutamate receptor 6 (GluR6 or GRIK2) is in linkage disequilibrium with autism. In the present study, the transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) and the haplotype transmission were performed to analyze the four SNPs (SNP1: rs995640; SNP2: rs2227281; SNP3: rs2227283; SNP4: rs2235076) of GluR6 in 174 Chinese Han parent‐offspring trios. The TDT demonstrated that the two SNPs (SNP2 and SNP3) showed preferential transmission (TDT P = 0.032). The global χ2 test for haplotype transmission also revealed an association between GluR6 and autism (χ2 = 10.78, df = 3, P = 0.013). Our results suggested that GluR6 is in linkage disequilibrium with autism. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Catalytic oxidative reactions of organic compounds by nitrogen‐containing copper complexes
Authors: Barooah Nilotpal , Sharma Sagar , Sarma Bipul Chandra , Baruah Jubaraj B.
Published: August 2004

The dimeric copper(II) complex di‐µ‐chloro‐bis[chloro(di‐3,5‐dimethylpyrazole)copper(II)] (A) in the presence of co‐oxidant hydrogen peroxide acts as a catalyst for the oxidation of benzylic alcohols to give the corresponding aldehydes. In the presence of hydrogen peroxide it also catalyses the oxidation reaction of 2,6‐dimethylphenol to 4,4′‐dihydroxy‐3,5,3′,5′‐tetramethylbiphenyl. The oxidative reactions by bis‐pyridinium tetrachlorocopper(II) (B) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide were compared for similar catalytic reactions of A, and it is observed that B can catalyse the oxidation of aromatic diols, 2,6‐dimethylphenol and thiophenol, but is not suitable for oxidation of benzylic alcohols. Bis‐(N‐phenyl‐3,5‐dimethylpyrazole)copper(II) nitrate monohydrate (C) has a suitable redox potential for one‐electron oxidation. It can oxidize ferrocene to the ferricinium cation, and it can liberate bromine from tetra‐alkylammonium bromides. The complex is catalytically effective for the oxidation of different aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes to the corresponding carboxylic acids. The compound is also effective in transforming benzylic amine to benzylalcohol and benzaldehyde. It can also oxidize diphenylmethane to give benzophenone and diphenylmethanol. It is observed that in each of these complexes a quasi‐reversible Cu(I)–Cu(II) species is present and facilitates the single‐electron oxidation process. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of bismaleimides containing ester groups from bisphenolic chelates and their polymers
Authors: Gaina C. , Gaina V. , Ardeleanu R.
Published: August 2004

A series of novel metal‐containing bismaleimide monomers was prepared by the reaction of 4‐maleimidobenzoic acid chloride with bisphenolic chelates. By reaction of the synthesized bismaleimides with bis(1‐mercapto‐2‐ethylether) or 3,4‐dichloromaleimidobenzoic acid chloride, new chelating polyimidosulfides and poly(ether‐ester)maleimides were prepared. The structures of the bisphenols, bismaleimides and polymers obtained were confirmed by IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Characterization of the compounds was undertaken by differential scanning calorimetry, thermooptical analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, viscosity measurements and solubility tests. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, structural studies and some biological aspects, including nematicidal and insecticidal properties, of organotin(IV) complexes formed with biologically active sulfonamide imine ligand
Authors: Jain Mukta , Maanju Sunita , Singh R. V.
Published: August 2004

The synthetic, spectroscopic and biological studies of some organotin(IV) complexes derived from sulfonamide imine having a nitrogen–nitrogen donor system have been undertaken. The sulfonamide imine, on interaction with organotin(IV) chlorides, yields complexes having an Sn←N bond. The structures of these compounds have been elucidated by microestimations and spectral (UV, IR, 1H, 13C and 119Sn NMR) studies, which unerringly point to the trigonal bipyramidal and octahedral geometries for the unimolar and bimolar reactions respectively around tin(IV), as the active lone pair of nitrogen is also included in the coordination sphere. Studies were conducted to assess the comparative growth‐inhibiting potential of the synthesized complexes against the sulfonamide imine for a variety of fungal and bacterial strains. The studies demonstrate that the concentrations reached levels sufficient to inhibit and kill the pathogens. The results of the biological studies have also been compared with the conventional standards, Bavistin and Streptomycin, taken for antifungal and antibacterial activities respectively. The complexes also show higher nematicidal and insecticidal properties. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystallographic report: Coordination polymers containing Cd(NO3)2 and Cd(H2O)22+ units bridged by btp ligands (btp = 2,6‐bis(N′‐1,2,4‐triazolyl)pyridine)
Authors: Ryu Ji Young , Lee Jun Yong , Hong Sung Jin , Yang Hyun Woong , Kim Cheal , Kim Youngmee , Kim Sung‐Jin , Lough Alan J.
Published: August 2004

There are two kinds of coordination polymers in the title compound: one contains Cd(NO3)2 units bridged by 2,6‐bis(N′‐1,2,4‐triazolyl)pyridine (btp) ligands and the other contains Cd(H2O)22+ bridged by btp ligands. The two coordination polymers are connected through hydrogen bonds. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystallographic report: Diphenylbis(Hpiroxicam)tin(IV), [Ph2Sn(Hpir)2]
Authors: Kovala‐Demertzi Dimitra , Koutsodimou Aglaia , Galani Angeliki , Hadjikakou Sotiris K. , Demertzis Mavroudis A. , Xanthopoulou Marianna , Miller John R. , Frampton Christopher S.
Published: August 2004

The crystal structure of complex [Ph2Sn(Hpir)2 ·CH3CN] shows for the first time chelation to a metal atom of piroxicam through the keto‐enolate oxygen atoms. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of an ecto‐phosphatase activity in malpighian tubules of hematophagous bug Rhodnius prolixus
Authors: Ferraro Rodrigo B. , Sousa Joana L. , Cunha Renata D.C. , Meyer‐Fernandes José R.
Published: August 2004

We have characterized a phosphatase activity present on the external surface of intact Malpighian tubules in Rhodnius prolixus. This phosphatase hydrolyses the substrate p‐nitrophenyl phosphate at a rate of 3.38 ± 0.07 nmol Pi × mg–1 × min–1. Phosphatase activity decreased with the increase of the pH from 6.4 to 7.6 pH, a range in which tubules cellular integrity was maintained for at least 1 h. Classical inhibitors of acid phosphatase, such as ammonium molybdate, fluoride, vanadate, mpV‐PIC, and bpV‐PHEN, caused different patters of inhibition. The ecto‐phosphatase present an apparent Km of 1.67 ± 0.34 mM and Vmax of 5.71 ± 0.37 nmol Pi × mg–1 × min–1 for p‐NPP. Zinc chloride inhibited 78.2% of ecto‐phosphatase activity, with Ki of 0.35 mM. Such inhibition was reversed by incubation with cysteine and GSH, but not DTT, serine, and GSSG, showing that cysteine residues are important for enzymatic activity. Phosphatase activity increased 141% three days after blood meal, and returned to basal levels 2 days later. These results suggest that ecto‐phosphatase activity could be involved in a diuretic mechanism, essential in the initial days after a blood meal for the control of Rhodnius homeostasis. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 57:40–49, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurotransmitter analog tethered to a silicon platform for neuro‐bioMEMS applications
Authors: Nehilla Barrett J. , Popat Ketul C. , Vu Tania Q. , Chowdhury Sarwat , Standaert Robert F. , Pepperberg David R. , Desai Tejal A.
Published: August 2004

The design of chemically well‐defined, machinable surfaces containing neuroactive molecules offers potential for fundamental neuroscience and clinical neural engineering applications. Here we report the assembly and characterization of silicon platforms containing a tethered form of muscimol. Muscimol, an analog of the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), is a potent agonist at postsynaptic GABAA and GABAC receptors. Surfaces were assembled using covalent avidin conjugation to silanized silicon followed by high‐affinity avidin‐biotin binding of a biotinylated derivative of muscimol (muscimol‐biotin). Contact angle measurements, ellipsometry, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were conducted to characterize the wettability, thickness, and chemical composition of progressively deposited surface layers. The data demonstrate successful incorporation of a neurotransmitter analog as part of a layered, silicon‐based structure possessing robust and specific biomolecular composition. These findings represent a step toward the design of platforms for applications involving control and modulation of neural signaling. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anaerobic hydrogen production with an efficient carrier‐induced granular sludge bed bioreactor
Authors: Lee Kuo‐Shing , Wu Ji‐Fang , Lo Yung‐Sheng , Lo Yung‐Chung , Lin Ping‐Jei , Chang Jo‐Shu
Published: August 2004

A novel bioreactor containing self‐flocculated anaerobic granular sludge was developed for high‐performance hydrogen production from sucrose‐based synthetic wastewater. The reactor achieved an optimal volumetric hydrogen production rate of ∼7.3 L/h/L (7,150 mmol/d/L) and a maximal hydrogen yield of 3.03 mol H2/mol sucrose when it was operated at a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 0.5 h with an influent sucrose concentration of 20 g COD/L. The gas‐phase hydrogen content and substrate conversion also exceeded 40 and 90%, respectively, under optimal conditions. Packing of a small quantity of carrier matrices on the bottom of the upflow reactor significantly stimulated sludge granulation that can be accomplished within 100 h. Among the four carriers examined, spherical activated carbon was the most effective inducer for granular sludge formation. The carrier‐induced granular sludge bed (CIGSB) bioreactor was started up with a low HRT of 4–8 h (corresponding to an organic loading rate of 2.5–5 g COD/h/L) and enabled stable operations at an extremely low HRT (up to 0.5 h) without washout of biomass. The granular sludge was rapidly formed in CIGSB supported with activated carbon and reached a maximal concentration of 26 g/L at HRT = 0.5 h. The ability to maintain high biomass concentration at low HRT (i.e., high organic loading rate) highlights the key factor for the remarkable hydrogen production efficiency of the CIGSB processes. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Precipitation by polycation as capture step in purification of plasmid DNA from a clarified lysate
Authors: Wahlund P.‐O. , Gustavsson P.‐E. , Izumrudov V.A. , Larsson P.‐O. , Galaev I.Yu.
Published: August 2004

The demand for highly purified plasmids in gene therapy and plasmid‐based vaccines requires large‐scale production of pharmaceutical‐grade plasmid. Large‐scale purification of plasmid DNA from bacterial cell culture normally includes one or several chromatographic steps. Prechromatographic steps include precipitation with solvents, salts, and polymers combined with enzymatic degradation of nucleic acids. No method alone has so far been able to selectively capture plasmid DNA directly from a clarified alkaline lysate. We present a method for selective precipitation of plasmid DNA from a clarified alkaline lysate using polycation poly(N, N′‐dimethyldiallylammonium) chloride (PDMDAAC). The specific interaction between the polycation and the plasmid DNA resulted in the formation of a stoichiometric insoluble complex. Efficient removal of contaminants such as RNA, by far the major contaminant in a clarified lysate, and proteins as well as 20‐fold plasmid concentration has been obtained with about 80% recovery. The method utilizes a inexpensive, commercially available polymer and thus provides a capture step suitable for large‐scale production. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular Structures of Magnesium Dichloride Sheets and Nanoballs.
Authors: Luhtanen Tommi N. P. , Linnolahti Mikko , Pakkanen Tapani A.
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
The Crystal Structure of α‐SrGaBO4.
Authors: Yang Z. , Chen X. L. , Liang J. K. , He M. , Chen J. R.
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Crystal Growth, Observation, and Characterization of the Low‐Temperature Structure of the Fluorite‐Related Ruthenates: Sm3RuO7 and Eu3RuO7.
Authors: Gemmill William R. , Smith Mark D. , zur Loye Hans‐Conrad
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Zr7Sb4: A New Binary Zirconium‐Rich Antimonide.
Authors: Tkachuk Andriy V. , Mar Arthur
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Comparative Study on the Luminescent Properties of Y3Al5O12: RE3+ (RE: Eu, Dy) Phosphors Synthesized by Three Methods.
Authors: Zhou Y. , Lin J. , Yu M. , Wang S.
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Growth and Characterization of Superconductive Nd2‐xCexCuO4‐y Single Crystals.
Authors: Jia L. S. , Chen X. L. , Yang W. , Yan X. L.
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Revised Phase Diagram for the Pt—Ti System from 30 to 60 at.% Platinum.
Authors: Biggs T. , Cornish L. A. , Witcomb M. J. , Cortie M. B.
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
New Metal—N—H System Composed of Mg(NH2)2 and LiH for Hydrogen Storage.
Authors: Leng Haiyan Y. , Ichikawa Takayuki , Hino Satoshi , Hanada Nobuko , Isobe Shigehito , Fujii Hironobu
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Mechanism of Novel Reaction from LiNH2 and LiH to Li2NH and H2 as a Promising Hydrogen Storage System.
Authors: Ichikawa Takayuki , Hanada Nobuko , Isobe Shigehito , Leng Haiyan , Fujii Hironobu
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
A Novel Magnesium—Vanadium Hydride Synthesized by a Gigapascal High‐Pressure Technique.
Authors: Kyoi Daisuke , et al. et al.
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Highly Enantioselective Catalytic Carbon Dioxide Incorporation Reaction: Nickel‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Carboxylative Cyclization of Bis‐1,3‐dienes.
Authors: Takimoto Masanori , Nakamura Yoichi , Kimura Kaoru , Mori Miwako
Published: August 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.