bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abundance of Circulating Preadipocyte Factor 1 in Early Life
Authors: de Zegher Francis , Díaz Marta , Sebastiani Giorgia , Martín-Ancel Ana , Sánchez-Infantes David , López-Bermejo Abel , Ibáñez Lourdes
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

Soluble preadipocyte factor 1 (Pref-1) inhibits adipocyte differentiation. We tested whether circulating levels of soluble Pref-1 are higher in smaller fetuses.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed longitudinal assessments of circulating Pref-1 in infants born appropriate for gestational age (AGA) or small for gestational age (SGA) and also in late-gestational women and in newborns on days 2 and 3.

RESULTS

At birth, Pref-1 levels were ~100-fold higher than in adults, being in SGA fetuses ~50% higher than in AGA fetuses. By age 4 months, Pref-1 had reached near-adult levels and the original AGA versus SGA difference had disappeared. Pref-1 levels were low in late-gestational women and were still elevated in newborns.

CONCLUSIONS

Pref-1 is abundantly present in the fetus, is higher in SGA than in AGA fetuses, and is likely to be of fetal origin. We speculate that Pref-1 in early life contributes to variation in postnatal adipocyte numbers, in the subsequent expandability of adipose tissue, and thus in the susceptibility to diabetes in later life.
Contrast Ratio and Masking Ability of Three Ceramic Veneering Materials
Authors: Shono NN , Nahedh HNA Al
Published: February 2012

Statement of the Problem

Porcelain veneer materials are translucent and are therefore affected by their thickness as well as the color of the underlying substructure, which limits their masking ability and compromises the esthetic result in heavily stained teeth.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the contrast ratio (CR) and masking ability of three different veneering ceramics with two thicknesses by measuring the color differences over white and black backgrounds. Correlations between CR and masking ability of these veneering ceramics were evaluated.

Methods and Materials

A total of 30 disc-shaped specimens (12 mm diameter × 1.0 mm or 1.5 mm) were fabricated in shade A2 from three types of all-ceramic systems: IPS e.max Press (IPSe; Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtensein), Vita VM7 (VM7; VITA Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany), and Nobel Rondo Press Alumina: Solo (NRPA; Nobel Biocare, Zürich-Flughafen, Switzerland). The CR, defined as the ratio of illuminance (Y) of the test material when placed on the black background (Yb) to the illuminance of the same material when placed over a white background (Yw), was determined (CR=Yb/Yw). The color (CIE L*a*b*) and Y of each specimen were measured over standard white and black tiles using a spectrophotometer (ColorEye 7000 A, Model C6, GretagMacbeth, New Windsor, NY, USA). Masking abilities of the specimens were determined by measuring the color difference (ΔE) over white and black backgrounds. Both CR and ΔE data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). One-way ANOVA was used to compare the mean values of CR across the three materials followed by the Duncan multiple comparison test. The correlations between CR and ΔE were determined by comparing R2 values obtained from a linear regression analysis. A Student t-test for independent samples was used to compare the mean contrast ratio and ΔE values for the two thicknesses.

Results

CR values of NRPA were significantly less than those of IPSe and VM7, and the CR of IPSe was higher than that of VM7. Furthermore, CR increased as the thickness of the discs increased to 1.5 mm for all three materials. Mean ΔE values were significantly higher with 1.0-mm-thick discs than with 1.5-mm discs. Among the three materials it was observed that NRPA had the highest ΔE when compared with IPSe or VM7, whereas the ΔE of the latter two were not significantly different from one another. There was a strong linear correlation between CR and masking ability.

Conclusion

CR and masking ability are affected by the type as well as the thickness of the ceramic used. IPSe and VM7 are similar in their masking abilities, whereas NRPA had the lowest masking ability. NRPA was the most translucent, followed by VM7; IPSe was the most opaque. None of the materials tested was able to completely mask the black background. It is therefore recommended that the type of ceramic should be chosen according to each clinical situation.
Factors Affecting Dental Air-Turbine Handpiece Bearing Failure
Authors: Wei M , Dyson JE , Darvell BW
Published: February 2012

Objectives

To investigate the influence of various factors on air-turbine handpiece bearing failure through developing standard protocols for testing the bearing longevity.

Methods

Groups of four air-turbine assemblies (Synea TA-98, W&H, Dentalwerk, Bürmoos, Austria) were subjected repeatedly to a full binary combinatorial set of operating conditions: with and without lubrication, simulated clinical loading, and corrosion protection, all with autoclaving, to the point of failure. A control set was lubricated only. Lubrication (Assistina, W&H), autoclaving (ST-Im30b, Eschmann Bros & Walsh, West Sussex, England), simulated clinical loading (0.56 N at 45° to the turbine axis, after autoclaving), and corrosion protection during autoclaving (magnesium sacrificial anode) were used as required. Free-running speed (Hz) and bearing resistance (μNm) were determined (Darvell-Dyson testing machine) at baseline and after every 10 cycles until turbine failure. Three-way analysis of variance (lubrication × loading × corrosion protection) of log(cycles to failure), with α = 0.05, was used.

Results

All autoclaved turbines had failed by 560 cycles, while the controls failed at 960-1000 cycles. All three main effects were significant: loading (p<10−6), lubrication (p<0.0002), and corrosion protection (p<0.02), as was the interaction lubrication × loading (p<10−6). No other interaction attained significance.

Conclusions

Running under load was the most important factor affecting bearing longevity. While autoclaving clearly has a detrimental effect, lubrication effectively increases longevity. A sacrificial anode may be economically worthwhile to extend life further, but low-load usage patterns, as generally instructed, are confirmed as beneficial.
Evaluation of Outgassing, Tear Strength, and Detail Reproduction in Alginate Substitute Materials
Authors: Baxter RT , Lawson NC , Cakir D , Beck P , Ramp LC , Burgess JO
Published: February 2012

Objective

To compare three alginate substitute materials to an alginate impression material for cast surface porosity (outgassing), tear strength, and detail reproduction.

Materials and Methods

Detail reproduction tests were performed following American National Standards Institute/American Dental Association (ANSI/ADA) Specification No. 19. To measure tear strength, 12 samples of each material were made using a split mold, placed in a water bath until testing, and loaded in tension until failure at a rate of 500 mm/min using a universal testing machine. For cast surface porosity testing, five impressions of a Teflon mold with each material were placed in a water bath (37.8°C) for the in-mouth setting time and poured with vacuum-mixed Silky Rock die stone at 5, 10, 30, and 60 minutes from the start of mixing. The gypsum samples were analyzed with a digital microscope for surface porosity indicative of hydrogen gas release by comparing the surface obtained at each interval with four casts representing no, little, some, and significant porosity. Data analysis was performed using parametric and Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance (ANOVA), Tukey/Kramer post-hoc tests (α=0.05), and individual Mann-Whitney U tests (α=0.0167).

Results

All alginate substitute materials passed the detail reproduction test. Tear strength of the alginate substitute materials was significantly better than alginate and formed three statistically different groups: AlgiNot had the lowest tear strength, Algin-X Ultra had the highest tear strength, and Position Penta Quick had intermediate tear strength. Significant variation in outgassing existed between materials and pouring times (p<0.05). All alginate substitute materials exhibited the least outgassing and cast porosity 60 minutes after mixing.

Conclusions

Detail reproduction and tear strength of alginate substitute materials were superior to traditional alginate. The outgassing effect was minimal for most materials tested. Alginate substitute materials are superior replacements for irreversible hydrocolloid.
Dosimetric comparison of three dimensional conformal radiotherapy and intensity modulated radiotherapy in high grade gliomas
Authors: Sarkar Biplab , Goswami Jyotirup , Basu Ayan , Sriramprasath S.
Published: February 2012

Dosimetric comparison of three dimensional conformal radiotherapy and intensity modulated radiotherapy in high grade gliomas

Treatment of high-grade gliomas continues to be frustrating for the clinician as the medial survival stands at a dismal 14.5 months for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) with the current standard of care. Given the high dose and generous margins required to be irradiated, three dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) has become standard practice. Radiation dose escalation beyond 60 Gy, by means of stereotactic or intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) boost, has not yielded clinically significant benefits in terms of local control or survival. At the same time, the potential of IMRT to spare normal tissues such as the brain stem and the optic apparatus makes it an attractive tool for modern radiation oncologists in seeking to improve post-radiotherapy quality of life. At our centre, we have been treating a large number of cases of high grade glioma with 3DCRT and IMRT for the last several years. The present study has been an effort to understand any potential benefits that IMRT, even without dose escalation, can offer.
Estimation of the propagation direction and spectral properties of the EEG signals registered during sevoflurane anaesthesia using Directed Transfer Function method
Authors: Olejarczyk Elzbieta , Kaminski Maciej , Marciniak Radoslaw , Byrczek Tomasz , Stasiowski Michal , Jalowiecki Przemyslaw , Sobieszek Aleksander , Zmyslowski Wojciech
Published: February 2012

Estimation of the propagation direction and spectral properties of the EEG signals registered during sevoflurane anaesthesia using Directed Transfer Function method

The aim of this study was to estimate spectral properties and propagation of the EEG signals registered during sevoflurane anaesthesia between individual EEG recording channels. The intensities of activity flows were calculated for delta, theta, alpha and beta waves using the Directed Transfer Function integration procedure. It was found that delta waves played the dominant role in the EEG signal propagation during anesthesia and it was suggested that theta and alpha waves propagation could be related to the processes participating in the wakefulness control. Data obtained with DTF method were compared with data received from the analysis of cerebral blood flow with the use of PET in other laboratory. This study showed that analysis of the EEG signal propagation is useful for better understanding and thus safer induction of anaesthesia procedure.
Phytophagous Entomofauna of Tomato, Paprika and Eggplant Occurring on Plantations in Poland in 1919-2010
Authors: Szwejda Jerzy , Rogowska Maria
Published: February 2012

Phytophagous Entomofauna of Tomato, Paprika and Eggplant Occurring on Plantations in Poland in 1919-2010

In Poland, in the years 1919-2010, in field crops of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.), paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) there were found 52 phytophagous species belonging to 6 orders of insects: Orthoptera, Thysanoptera, Hemiptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and Diptera. The number of pest species occurring on the different crops was: tomato - 39, paprika - 41, eggplant - 27.

The presented phytophagous entomofauna proved to be stable in terms of species composition over the years of observations. However, there was a significant variation in population size, which was subject to considerable fluctuations in successive growing seasons.

The dominant species posing a threat to plantations every year included: for tomato: Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata), green peach aphid (Myzus persicae), soil pests: cutworm (Agrotis sp), wireworms (Agriotes sp) and white grubs (Melolontha sp); for paprika: onion thrips (Thrips tabaci), green peach aphid (Myzus persicae), bugs (Lygus sp.); for eggplant: green peach aphid (Myzus persicae), Colorado beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineatas), onion thrips (Thrips tabaci).
Bioregulators Favourably Affect the Levels of Vitamins and Sugars in Tomato Fruit Tissues
Authors: Olaiya Charles
Published: February 2012

Bioregulators Favourably Affect the Levels of Vitamins and Sugars in Tomato Fruit Tissues

This study aimed to examine the influence of exogenous application of the bioregulators indole acetic acid (IAA), indole butyric acid (IBA) and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) on the vitamin and sugar content of tomatoes. Harvested fruits of the treated tomato genotypes, namely NHLy 11, NHLy 12, NHLy 13, NHLy 15 and NHLy 16, were analysed for these parameters. Spectrophotometric analysis results showed that IAA significantly increased (p<0.05) the concentrations of β-carotene, vitamin A and ascorbate in all the tested genotypes, with the highest values of 707.84 μg·100 g-1 fwb, 118.21 μg·100 g-1 RE and 20.36 μg·100 g-1 fwb, respectively, in the NHLy16 genotype. The total sugar content was not significantly affected by the treatments. It is proposed that exogenous application of these bioregulators to plant foods such as tomatoes can improve their phytonutrient concentrations, promoting better public health.
Status and Perspectives of Organic Pomological Production Development in Selected Farms
Authors: Szymona Jerzy
Published: February 2012

Status and Perspectives of Organic Pomological Production Development in Selected Farms

The paper presents the characteristics of organic farms, where pomological plant species were grown. These farms were included within the inspection process of the largest Polish certification body Ekogwarancja PTRE. Data from farms being certified during 2008-2010 were compared with features of individual farms presented by Central Statistical Office (GUS). The survey referred to the sum of farmland area amounting almost to 100 thousand hectares. The percentage of orchard and berry as well as vegetable plantation area in organic farm is over six times larger than that in average conventional farm. Nevertheless, it is not satisfactory result due to observed stagnation during the three-year period surveyed.
Association between minihaplotypes and mutations at the phenylalanine hydroxylase locus in Latvian phenylketonuria patients
Authors: Proņina Natālija , Lugovska Rita
Published: February 2012

Association between minihaplotypes and mutations at the phenylalanine hydroxylase locus in Latvian phenylketonuria patients

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inherited metabolic disease caused by recessively inherited mutations in the PAH gene that encodes the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH). Altogether, 20 diseases causing mutations were identified in Latvian PKU patients. R408W, the most common mutation, accounted for 73% of Latvian PKU chromosomes and was mostly observed in association with the VNTR3/STR238 minihaplotype. Minihaplotypes also were established for the other 19 mutations and one unknown PKU chromosome. Mutation E280K was almost exclusively associated with minihaplotype 9/250, and mutation IVS10-11G>A was strongly associated with the VNTR7/STR250 minihaplotype and was possibly of Mediterranean origin. It was found that minihaplotypes can be useful in studies concerning the origin and distribution of PAH mutations in human populations and for analysis of rare mutations in PAH gene and for prenatal diagnosis.
Examination of the Effect of a Sound Source Location on the Steady-State Response of a Two-Room Coupled System
Authors: Meissner Mirosław
Published: February 2012

In this paper, the computer modelling application based on the modal expansion method is developed to study the influence of a sound source location on a steady-state response of coupled rooms. In the research, an eigenvalue problem is solved numerically for a room system consisting of two rectangular spaces connected to one another. A numerical procedure enables the computation of shape and frequency of eigenmodes, and allows one to predict the potential and kinetic energy densities in a steady-state. In the first stage, a frequency room response for several source positions is investigated, demonstrating large deformations of this response for strong and weak modal excitations. Next, a particular attention is given to studying how the changes in a source position influence the room response when a source frequency is tuned to a resonant frequency of a strongly localized mode.
Effects of inertia in the steady state pressurised flow of a non-Newtonian fluid between two curvilinear surfaces of revolution: Rabinowitsch fluid model
Authors: Singh Udaya , Gupta Ram , Kapur Vijay
Published: February 2012

Effects of inertia in the steady state pressurised flow of a non-Newtonian fluid between two curvilinear surfaces of revolution: Rabinowitsch fluid model

In many practical situations fluids are normally blended with additives (viscosity index improvers, viscosity thickeners, viscosity thinners) due to which they show pseudoplastic and dilatant nature which can be modelled as cubic stress model (Rabinowitsch model). The cubic stress model for pseudoplastic fluids is adopted because Wada and Hayashi have shown that the theoretical results with this model are in good agreement with the experimental results. The present theoretical analysis is to investigate the pseudoplastic effect along with the effect of rotational inertia on the pressure distribution, frictional torque and fluid flow rate of externally pressurised flow in narrow clearance between two curvilinear surfaces of revolution. The expression for pressure has been derived using energy integral approach. To analyse and discuss the effects of pseudoplasticity and fluid inertia on the pressure distribution, fluid flow rate and frictional torque, the examples of externally pressurised flow in the clearance between parallel disks and concentric spherical surfaces have been considered.
Modelling of pollutants concentrations from the biomass combustion process
Authors: Magdziarz Aneta , Wilk Małgorzata , Zajemska Monika
Published: February 2012

Modelling of pollutants concentrations from the biomass combustion process

This paper presents possibilities for of numerical modelling of biomass combustion in a commercially available boiler. A sample of biomass was tested with respect to its physical and chemical properties. Thermogravimetry studies of biomass were carried out. Computer simulation makes it possible to analyse complex phenomena which are otherwise difficult to observe. The aim of this work was to model biomass combustion to predict the amount of pollutants generated (NOx, CO, SO2) in the exhaust gases coming out from boilers The calculations were made using the CHEMKIN program. Results of calculations were performed taking into account the influence of temperature, pressure and residence time.
Does Norwegian alcohol policy favour lower alcohol content beverages? A historical overview
Authors: Horverak Øyvind
Published: February 2012

Aims

A historical overview of the relation between Norwegian alcohol policy and problems caused by different alcoholic beverages during the last two centuries.

Results & Conclusions

The main thesis is that the concrete shaping of Norwegian alcohol policy changes according to the beverage which is supposed to cause most harm. Traditionally, this beverage has been liquor, and the Norwegian alcohol policy has mainly been occupied with the evils of spirits. Problems following from the consumption of beer and wine have been seen as relatively modest. At times, these weaker beverages have been viewed as a temperate alternative to the stronger spirits. After WWII, the government chose a policy which tended to favour wine over liquor and beer. Wine consumption was related to a somewhat more sophisticated and cultural sphere than the rude consumption of beer and spirits.
The controversial discourse on beer in Iceland
Authors: Ólafsdóttir Hildigunnur
Published: February 2012

Aims

This study investigates the motives and discourses around the decision taken by the Icelandic parliament in 1989 to legalise beer sales after a prohibition of 74 years. A bill was passed in 1988 that allowed the selling of beer in licensed restaurants and the state alcohol monopoly stores.

Design

The sources used for this study are mainly newspaper articles and other materials and reports published in the period 1980 to 1989.

Results

The passing of the bill was preceded by many controversial discourses in Iceland. Lobbying groups with commercial interests campaigned for the legalisation of beer, while representatives of the alcoholism movement took no formal stance on the issue, parliamentarians broke from party lines and medical doctors were split into two factions. Common questions included the plausibility of the total consumption model, various understandings of WHO recommendations, diverging interpretations of other countries’ experiences of beer, and different views on how beer would affect individuals suffering from alcoholism.

Conclusions

The changes in Icelandic alcohol policy to legalise beer were in keeping with contemporary societal processes of globalisation and modernisation, but public health arguments were given less priority. While the decision to legalise beer increased the commercial functions of the state alcohol monopoly, it also strengthened the monopoly's role as an actor in alcohol policy.
Beer, wine and distilled spirits in Ontario: A comparison of recent policies, regulations and practices
Authors: Giesbrecht Norman , Wettlaufer Ashley , Walker Emma , Ialomiteanu Anca , Stockwell Timothy
Published: February 2012

Aims

There is a long-standing discussion about whether some beverages are more likely to be linked with high-risk drinking and damage than others, and implications for beverage specific alcohol policies. While the evidence is inconclusive, when controlling for individual consumption, some studies have shown elevated risks by beverage type. This paper examines the situation in Ontario, Canada, from 1995 to present (2011) on several dimensions in order to assess the differences by beverage and their rationale with a specific focus on the most recent policie.

Methods

This paper draws on archival consumption statistics, taxation and pricing arrangements, and retailing and marketing practices.

Results

Off-premise sales, which represent an estimated 75% of ethanol, involve several channels: stores controlled by the Liquor Control Board (LCBO) – which sell all spirits, imported and domestic wines, and beer products; the Beer Store network which sell all beers; and Ontario winery stores – which sell Ontario wines. In LCBO stores Ontario wines are more prominently displayed than other beverages, and extensive print advertising tends to feature wine over beer and spirits. There are also differences by beverage in terms of taxation and price. The taxes on higher alcohol content beverage types account for a higher portion of the retail price than taxes on lower alcohol content beverage types. Furthermore, minimum price regulations allow for differential minimum pricing per standard drink [17.05 ml ethanol] across beverage types.

Conclusions

The apparent rationale for these arrangements is not primarily that of favouring lighter-strength beverages in order to reduce harm, but rather to accommodate long-standing vested interests which are primarily financially based.
Effect of Calpastatin Gene Polymorphism on Lamb Growth and Muscling
Authors: Greguła-Kania Monika
Published: February 2012

Effect of Calpastatin Gene Polymorphism on Lamb Growth and Muscling

The calpain-calpastatin system plays a key role in skeletal muscle growth and development processes. It is known that calpastatin activity correlates highly with muscle growth rate, which implies that skeletal muscle growth is likely to result from reduced protein degradation due to compromised activity of calpains or substantial increase of calpastatin activity. The objective of the present research was to identify polymorphic forms in intron 12 of the ovine calpastatin gene in sheep of synthetic lines BCP and SCP, followed by determination of the correlation between each polymorphic form of CAST gene and chosen traits characterizing lamb growth and muscling. The present study's results suggest that lambs carrying the "b" and "e" alleles and the "ae" genotype could be preferred when selecting for growth rate. The breeding efforts to obtain substantial increases in sheep muscle mass could focus on animals carrying the "ac" genotype. No statistically significant relationship was observed in any of the analysed cases between values of the traits and the CAST genotype. However, a highly significant effect of the study year on the analysed traits was found. The results should be regarded as preliminary. The research should be continued on a larger group of animals to ensure the adequate number of each genotype. The trends mentioned and discussed above may also serve as an indicator showing the future direction of further studies in this area.
Effectiveness of Rapeseed Press Cake (RPC) in Sow Feeding in Two Reproduction Cycles
Authors: Hanczakowska Ewa , Węglarzy Karol , Bereza Małgorzata
Published: February 2012

Effectiveness of Rapeseed Press Cake (RPC) in Sow Feeding in Two Reproduction Cycles

The possibility of replacing soybean meal with rapeseed press cake (RPC) in feed was determined over two reproductive cycles in an experiment with 54 pregnant and lactating sows allocated to three groups with 18 gilts per group. Group I received the standard mixture, group II received RPC as the main protein source from insemination to 100 days of pregnancy, and the control diet during late pregnancy and lactation. In group III, RPC replaced all of soybean meal protein in early pregnancy and one-half of soybean meal protein during late pregnancy and lactation. Half of the sows in each group received a iodine supplement (1 mg/kg feed). Sows were weighed at mating, farrowing and weaning. Piglets were weighed at 1 and 28 days of age (weaning). Samples of milk were collected at 14 days postpartum to determine the content of protein, fat, lactose and iodine. After the first reproductive cycle sows were mated and allocated to the respective groups as in the first cycle. Neither RPC nor iodine had any effect on body weight of the sows. RPC had a beneficial effect on body weight of piglets at birth and weaning, which could be due to a higher content of fat and amino acids in sow RPC diets. RPC, especially when given throughout pregnancy and lactation significantly lowered iodine content in sow milk. Piglets grew significantly faster in the second compared to the first reproductive cycle (184 and 178 g per day, respectively). Iodine supplemented to sows reduced piglet daily weight gain from 185 to 177 g. It is concluded that rapeseed press cake can replace soybean meal in the diets for pregnant and lactating sows without a negative effect on their performance while improving piglet body weight.
Feeding Wheat Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) to Laying Hens and its Effect on Performance and Egg Quality
Authors: Niemiec Jan , Riedel Julia , Szulc Tadeusz , Stępińska Małgorzata
Published: February 2012

Feeding Wheat Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) to Laying Hens and its Effect on Performance and Egg Quality

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of wheat DDGS as a feed ingredient on the performance of laying hens and their egg quality. ISA Brown laying hens were administered a feed mixture containing 15% (E1) or 20% (E2) wheat DDGS for 12 weeks. The hens from the control group (C) received a standard diet based on soybean meal as the main protein source only. Laying performance (laying %), average egg weight (g), average daily feed intake (g/hen), and feed conversion ratio (kg/kg eggs) were recorded over the study period. Egg quality traits (egg weight, thick albumen quality, yolk colour, yolk percentage, shell percentage and shell thickness) were evaluated twice: before the start and at the end of the experiment. There was no effect of dietary DDGS on laying performance or on feed intake. The average egg weight was significantly lower in both experimental groups and the feed conversion ratio was lower compared to the control group. Dietary wheat DDGS did not affect the main egg quality parameters except for thick albumen quality. Eggs from hens fed the diet with DDGS had higher values of Haugh unit than those from the control hens. These results suggest that wheat DDGS can be used in amounts of up to 20% as a component of feed mixtures for flocks of laying hens.
The Effect of Humic-Fatty Acid Preparation on Production Parameters and Meat Quality of Growing Rabbits
Authors: Miśta Dorota , Rząsa Anna , Szmańko Tadeusz , Zawadzki Wojciech , Styczyńska Marzena , Pintal Anna , Króliczewska Bożena
Published: February 2012

The Effect of Humic-Fatty Acid Preparation on Production Parameters and Meat Quality of Growing Rabbits

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of a humic-fatty acid preparation on production parameters and meat quality of rabbits. Three groups of New Zealand White rabbits were used (one control and two experimental) with 8 animals per group. The animals of group C (control) were fed standard pelleted diet, group H5 received a control diet supplemented with 5%, and group H10 a control diet with 10% humic-fatty acid preparation. The experiment was terminated after 6 weeks feeding, when rabbits were slaughtered. The experimental groups showed higher gains and a higher feed conversion ratio than the control group. The dietary inclusion of the experimental additive had a beneficial effect on the meat quality traits, such as Fe concentration, hardness and colour, but it also increased the susceptibility of fat to oxidative changes.
Matching digital tombstone documentation to unearthed census data: surveying Taiwan's family names, ethnicities and homelands
Authors: Streiter Oliver , Goudin Yoann , Huang Chun (Jimmy) , Lin Ann Meifang
Published: February 2012

In this study we illustrate how data sets, defined and set up independently in digital archive projects, can be linked to mutually enrich each other. The data linked are the digital tombstone archive ThakBong and the visionary use of the 1956 census by Chen and Fried 1 , published in 1968 as ‘The Distribution of Family Names in Taiwan’. We explain, through which assumptions the dimensions of the two data sets can be mapped, so that values missing in one set can be completed by the second or, estimated values can be replaced by more reliable values. Conflicting values in both set trigger hypotheses concerning the validity of the data sets.
From Washington to the world: maps and digital archives at the Library of Congress
Authors: Zhang Min
Published: February 2012

This paper offers an overview of the Library of Congress Geography and Map Division and its efforts to digitise the collection. The number of hard copy maps is huge: over 5.5 million, most of them un-catalogued. New maps continue to be added to the collection, some in new, digital formats. The Library of Congress has been in the forefront of developing digital collections and providing digital access to its collections via the Internet. The Library's American Memory collection is described here, from its origins in the 1980s to its current format. American Memory's access to the Geography and Map collections is profiled, with features of the digital collection presented in detail. American Memory is constantly undergoing revision. The Geography and Map division currently features collections highlighting the American Civil War, Liberia, the Revolutionary war, early railroad maps, the Louisiana Purchase, and U.S. National Parks. The wealth of information contained in the map collection makes these digitisation efforts worthwhile even though only a small percentage of the total items can be posted online.
Data concepts and their relevance for data capture in large scale digitisation of biological collections
Authors: Haston Elspeth , Cubey Robert , Harris David J.
Published: February 2012

Logistically, the data associated with biological collections can be divided into three main categories for digitisation: i) Label Data: the data appearing on the specimen on a label or annotation; ii) Curatorial Data: the data appearing on containers, boxes, cabinets and folders which hold the collections; iii) Supplementary Data: the data held separately from the collections in indices, archives and literature. Each of these categories of data have fundamentally different properties within the digitisation framework which have implications for the data capture process. These properties were assessed in relation to alternative data entry workflows and methodologies to create a more efficient and accurate system of data capture. We see a clear benefit in the prioritisation of curatorial data in the data capture process. These data are often only available at the cabinets, they are in a format suitable for allowing rapid data entry, and they result in an accurate cataloguing of the collections. Finally, the capture of a high resolution digital image enables additional data entry to be separated into multiple sweeps, and optical character recognition (OCR) software can be used to facilitate sorting images for fuller data entry, and giving potential for more automated data entry in the future.
A museum exhibits support system based on history and culture literacy
Authors: Chen Yu-Lin , Lai Ting-Sheng , Yasuda Takami , Yokoi Shigeki
Published: February 2012

Museums need an interactive data collection and visualisation tool for their artefacts. This paper describes a study in which we enable access to Chinese and Japanese cultural heritage information from two history museums, the National Palace Museum in Taiwan and the Tokugawa Art Museum in Japan. Results from these museum databases were used to develop a prototype system to demonstrate advanced cultural learning and historical timeline functionalities for foreigners. This system is based on temporal data from the museums’ databases, and provided the user with powerful data manipulation and graphical visualisation tools. It might become a basis of an interactive digital museum system for Chinese and Japanese heritages especially for foreign users.
Constructing a gamed-based learning website for children
Authors: Hsu Tien-Yu
Published: February 2012

To realise the of promotion and sustainable development for the digital archives programme, the National Museum of Natural Science (NMNS) developed a game-based learning website for children with knowledgeable, storytelling, explorative learning, joyful and personalised characteristics. This website applied design principles including interdisciplinary island maps for exploration, theme-based design with learning content and games, multi-user interactive learning environments, good use of digital archives knowledge repositories, supporting school teaching and learning and personalised membership service. Some game factors were also infused into the website including curiosity, fantasy, self value, challenge, sense of control, exploring experience, sense of achievement, competitiveness, interpersonal interaction and virtual socialisation. An evaluation result indicates that the game-based learning website can inspire learning motivation and enhance learning effectiveness for children. In the near future a virtual-and-physical blended learning service model will be delivered to children by creating personalised and collaborative learning services across onsite and online spaces.
Learning english through musicals: a case study of social economically disadvantaged aboriginal students in Eastern Taiwan
Authors: Lei Lih-Wei , Huang Cheng-Fang
Published: February 2012

This study explores the possibility of using musicals to teach English with instructional VCD for following practice, and investigates whether it helps social economically disadvantaged aboriginal students overcome their difficulties with English and enhance their learning motivation.

A series of surveys and interviews were conducted to investigate the influence of this intervention. The results showed that about 90 per cent of responded students in the intervention group considered learning English through musical interesting and it helped them to be more confident in English. About 80 per cent of students indicated that they would actively practice English through ways such as imitating singers to sing an English song. About 60 per cent of students felt more comfortable speaking English loudly and were less afraid of talking to others in English. Further comparison show that there was a significant difference between students who participated (n=39) and who didn't participate (n=15) in the English musical programme. Only about 60 per cent of those in the control group would actively learn English. Being unaware of the English musical programme, only half of the students considered learning English through acting interesting.

The results of this exploratory study show musicals can provide the opportunity for the students to use language meaningfully and appropriately. The use of drama activities in second language learning helps the learners to be more imaginative, creative and less frustrated as they become more confident in the process of learning English as a second language.
The learning effectiveness of integrating e-books into elementary school science and technology classes
Authors: Wen Jia-Rong , Chuang Ming Kuang , Kuo Sheng-Huang
Published: February 2012

Developments in technological tools happen every day. Developments in the publication of e-Books and production of e-readers also are happening daily. Currently, young people who live in highly technological areas are exposed to books not only through an adult's reading, but also by independently accessing e-Books which are available on the internet or on CD-ROMs. These multimedia tools usually provide assistance in oral reading, written text, oral discourse, music, sound effects, and animations 1 . The main purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of integrating e-Books into elementary school science and technology classes on students' learning effectiveness. This study employed nonequivalent group pre-test/post-test quasi-experimental design which consisted of conducting learning activities for 20 minutes a period, three periods a week, for a total of six weeks. In this study, there were 60 elementary sixth-grade students who were equally divided into an experimental group and a control group. The experiment design applied an e-Book Learning method for the experimental group and a Paper-Based Learning method for the control group, respectively. The instruments of this study consisted of three scales: (1) learning motivation scale, (2) learning attitude scale, and (3) learning effectiveness scale. After the experimental instruction, the data were analysed using seven different statistical methods: a Pearson correlation analysis, canonical correlation analysis, one-way MANCOVA, one-way MANOVA, one-way ANCOVA, path analysis, t-test, and paired t-test. These statistical methods enabled us to reach four conclusions: (1) There was no significant difference in learning effectiveness of e-Books integrated instruction between students of different sexes; (2) There was significant correlation between learning motivation and learning effectiveness of science and technology domain for the experimental group students; (3) There was significant correlation between learning attitudes and learning effectiveness in the science and technology domain for the experimental group students; (4) The experimental group students had a positive attitude toward e-Books integrated instruction. They thought the use of e-Books could enhance learning effectiveness and improve learning motivation.
The Association Between Community Stressors and Asthma Prevalence of School Children in Winnipeg, Canada
Authors: Pittman Tyler P. , Nykiforuk Candace I. J. , Mignone Javier , Mandhane Piush J. , Becker Allan B. , Kozyrskyj Anita L.
Published: February 2012

It is generally surmised that community stressors have an incubating effect for a variety of diagnoses on maternal and child health. This is of public health significance, as children of mothers facing long-term distress were found to have a 60% higher risk for asthma diagnosis at age 7 in Manitoba, Canada. Our objective was to determine the association of community stressors with childhood asthma prevalence in Winnipeg, Canada from participants who completed the Study of Asthma, Genes and the Environment (SAGE) survey administered in 2002–2003 to a birth cohort from 1995. Measures of community socioeconomic makeup and community disorder with rank ordinalized by quintile at the census tract level were obtained from the 1996 Canada Census. Crime data (annual incidence per 10,000 persons) by neighbourhood profile for 2001 was provided by the Winnipeg Police Service. Dichotomous caregiver report of child asthma along with other indicators from the geocoded SAGE survey allowed linkage to 23 neighbourhood profiles. Multilevel logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the effect of community stressors on childhood asthma prevalence for birth and non-birth home children (N = 1472) and children resident of birth homes at age 7 or 8 (N = 698). After adjusting for individual risk factors, children resident of birth homes in a high thefts over $5,000 neighbourhood profile were twice as likely (Adjusted OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.11–3.81) to have report of asthma compared to children in a lower thefts over $5,000 profile, with community thefts over $5,000 explaining over half of the observed neighbourhood variation in asthma.
Correlates of Suicide Ideation and Attempt among Youth Living in the Slums of Kampala
Authors: Swahn Monica H. , Palmier Jane B. , Kasirye Rogers , Yao Huang
Published: February 2012

While suicidal behavior is recognized as a growing public health problem world-wide, little is known about the prevalence and risk factors for suicidal behaviors among street and slum youth in Africa, and in Uganda, specifically. The number of youth who live on the streets and in the slums of Kampala appears to be growing rapidly, but their mental health needs have not been documented, which has hampered resource allocation and service implementation. This study of youth, ages 14–24, was conducted in May and June of 2011, to assess the prevalence and correlates of suicidal behavior. Participants (N = 457) were recruited for a 30-minute interviewer-administered survey through eight drop-in centers operated by the Uganda Youth Development Link for youth in need of services. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were computed to determine associations between psychosocial correlates and suicide ideation and suicide attempt. Reporting both parents deceased Adj.OR = 2.36; 95% CI: 1.23–4.52), parental neglect due to alcohol use (Adj.OR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.16–3.77), trading sex for food, shelter or money (Adj.OR = 1.95; 95% CI: 1.09–3.51), sadnesss (Adj.OR = 2.42; 95% CI: 1.20–4.89), loneliness (Adj.OR = 2.67; 95% CI: 1.12–6.40) and expectations of dying prior to age 30 (Adj.OR = 2.54; 95% CI: 1.53–4.23) were significantly associated with suicide ideation in multivariate analyses. Parental neglect due to alcohol use (Adj.OR = 2.04; 95% CI: 1.11–3.76), sadness (Adj.OR = 2.42; 95% CI: 1.30–7.87), and expectations of dying prior to age 30 (Adj.OR = 2.18; 95% CI: 1.25–3.79) were significantly associated with suicide attempt in multivariate analyses. Given the dire circumstances of this vulnerable population, increased services and primary prevention efforts to address the risk factors for suicidal behavior are urgently needed.
The Effect of Toll-Like Receptor 4 in the Aqueous Humor of Endotoxin-Induced Uveitis
Authors: Wang Jing , Lu Hong , Xu Yingzhi , Hu Xiaofeng , Chen Wei , Li Shang
Published: February 2012

In our previous study, we found that acute anterior uveitis (AAU) could be induced in wild-type mice (C3H/HeN), but it could not be induced in TLR4 gene-deficient mice (C3H/HeJ), we concluded that the translocation of transcription factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) may play an important role. In this study, we examined the concentration of different cytokines in the aqueous humor of C3H/HeN mice and C3H/HeJ mice with the aim of exploring the role of different cytokines in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and TLR4-mediated signal transduction in the development of AAU.
Novel Marine Phenazines as Potential Cancer Chemopreventive and Anti-Inflammatory Agents
Authors: Kondratyuk Tamara P. , Park Eun-Jung , Yu Rui , Van Breemen Richard B. , Asolkar Ratnakar N. , Murphy Brian T. , Fenical William , Pezzuto John M.
Published: February 2012

Two new (1 and 2) and one known phenazine derivative (lavanducyanin, 3) were isolated and identified from the fermentation broth of a marine-derived Streptomyces sp. (strain CNS284). In mammalian cell culture studies, compounds 1, 2 and 3 inhibited TNF-α-induced NFκB activity (IC50 values of 4.1, 24.2, and 16.3 μM, respectively) and LPS-induced nitric oxide production (IC50 values of >48.6, 15.1, and 8.0 μM, respectively). PGE2 production was blocked with greater efficacy (IC50 values of 7.5, 0.89, and 0.63 μM, respectively), possibly due to inhibition of cyclooxygenases in addition to the expression of COX-2. Treatment of cultured HL-60 cells led to dose-dependent accumulation in the subG1 compartment of the cell cycle, as a result of apoptosis. These data provide greater insight on the biological potential of phenazine derivatives, and some guidance on how various substituents may alter potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.
The Use of Stable and Radioactive Sterol Tracers as a Tool to Investigate Cholesterol Degradation to Bile Acids in Humans in Vivo
Authors: Bertolotti Marco , Crosignani Andrea , Del Puppo Marina
Published: February 2012

Alterations of cholesterol homeostasis represent important risk factors for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Different clinical-experimental approaches have been devised to study the metabolism of cholesterol and particularly the synthesis of bile acids, its main catabolic products. Most evidence in humans has derived from studies utilizing the administration of labeled sterols; these have several advantages over in vitro assay of enzyme activity and expression, requiring an invasive procedure such as a liver biopsy, or the determination of fecal sterols, which is cumbersome and not commonly available. Pioneering evidence with administration of radioactive sterol derivatives has allowed to characterize the alterations of cholesterol metabolism and degradation in different situations, including spontaneous disease conditions, aging, and drug treatment. Along with the classical isotope dilution methodology, other approaches were proposed, among which isotope release following radioactive substrate administration. More recently, stable isotope studies have allowed to overcome radioactivity exposure. Isotope enrichment studies during tracer infusion has allowed to characterize changes in the degradation of cholesterol via the “classical” and the “alternative” pathways of bile acid synthesis. Evidence brought by tracer studies in vivo, summarized here, provides an exceptional tool for the investigation of sterol metabolism, and integrate the studies in vitro on human tissue.