bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cave-dwelling bats do not avoid TMT and 2-PT – components of predator odour that induce fear in other small mammals
Authors: Driessens Tess , Siemers Björn M.
Published: June 2010

Recognition and avoidance of predators is fundamental for the survival of prey animals. Here we conducted the first study assessing chemosensory predator recognition in cave-dwelling bats. We used a Y-maze approach to test the reaction of greater mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis) to two synthetically derived components of predator odour (2,4,5-trimethyl-3-thiazoline, TMT, a component of fox faeces scent; and 2-propylthietane, 2-PT, a component of mustelid scent) and to the natural scent of the least weasel (Mustela nivalis). It is well documented that rodents and several other small mammals show strong and at least partly innate fear reactions when confronted with these odorants. By contrast, the bats did not show any avoidance or fear reaction, despite the fact that relatively high odorant concentrations were presented. Furthermore, they did not react differently towards predator scent and towards acrid but otherwise neutral odours (basil or goat). The number of entries into in the Y-maze arm with the odour source and the time spent in this arm as well as the bats' overall exploratory activity and several other behavioural variables were not affected by the odour treatments. Generally, the sense of smell is well developed in bats and plays an important role in bat behavioural ecology. It is thus somewhat surprising that the bats did not show any avoidance reaction to predator scent, even though direct contact with a mustelid or fox would result in death. We discuss ecological explanations that might have prevented bats from evolving olfactory predatory recognition and avoidance.
Regression Discontinuity Designs in Economics
Authors: Lee David S , Lemieux Thomas
Published: June 2010

This paper provides an introduction and “user guide” to Regression Discontinuity (RD) designs for empirical researchers. It presents the basic theory behind the research design, details when RD is likely to be valid or invalid given economic incentives, explains why it is considered a “quasi-experimental” design, and summarizes different ways (with their advantages and disadvantages) of estimating RD designs and the limitations of interpreting these estimates. Concepts are discussed using examples drawn from the growing body of empirical research using RD. (JEL C21, C31)
Estimating Cannibalization Rates for Pioneering Innovations
Authors: van Heerde Harald J. , Srinivasan Shuba , Dekimpe Marnik G.
Published: June 2010

To evaluate the success of a new product, managers need to determine how much of its new demand is due to cannibalizing the firm's other products, rather than drawing from competition or generating primary demand. We introduce a time-varying vector error-correction model to decompose the base sales of a new product into its constituent sources. The model allows managers to estimate cannibalization effects and calculate the new product's net demand, which may be considerably less than its total demand. We apply our methodology to the introduction of the Lexus RX300 using detailed car transaction data. This case is especially interesting because the Lexus RX300 was the first crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV), implying that its demand could come from both the luxury SUV and the luxury sedan categories. Because Lexus was active in both categories, there was a double cannibalization potential. We show how the contribution of the different demand sources varies over time and discuss the managerial implications for both the focal brand and its competitors.
MTERF factors: a multifunction protein family
Authors: Roberti Marina , Polosa Paola Loguercio , Bruni Francesco , Deceglie Stefania , Gadaleta Maria Nicola , Cantatore Palmiro
Published: June 2010

The MTERF family is a large protein family, identified in metazoans and plants, which consists of four subfamilies, MTERF1, 2, 3 and 4. Mitochondrial localisation was predicted for the vast majority of MTERF family members and demonstrated for the characterised MTERF proteins. The main structural feature of MTERF proteins is the presence of a modular architecture, based on repetitions of a 30-residue module, the mTERF motif, containing leucine zipper-like heptads. The MTERF family includes transcription termination factors: human mTERF, sea urchin mtDBP andDrosophilaDmTTF. In addition to terminating transcription, they are involved in transcription initiation and in the control of mtDNA replication. This multiplicity of functions seems to flank differences in the gene organisation of mitochondrial genomes. MTERF2 and MTERF3 play antithetical roles in controlling mitochondrial transcription: that is, mammalian andDrosophilaMTERF3 act as negative regulators, whereas mammalian MTERF2 functions as a positive regulator. Both proteins contact mtDNA in the promoter region, perhaps establishing interactions, either mutual or with other factors. Regulation of MTERF gene expression in human andDrosophiladepends on nuclear transcription factors NRF-2 and DREF, respectively, and proceeds through pathways which appear to discriminate between factors positively or negatively acting in mitochondrial transcription. In this emerging scenario, it appears that MTERF proteins act to coordinate mitochondrial transcription.
What has changed in Hiberno-English: constructions and their role in contact-induced change
Authors: Pietsch Lukas
Published: June 2010

Three case studies of contact-induced grammatical innovations in Hiberno-English (Irish English) are presented, with a view to determining a realistic and descriptively adequate syntactic analysis of the mechanisms of syntactic replication under language contact. The case studies deal with a range of different tense-aspect constructions and the morpho-syntax of subordinating clause constructions. It is argued that an approach based on the “construction”, a holistically represented complex form-function mapping as a central cognitive unit of storage and mental representation, offers a plausible and intuitive way of modelling the cross-linguistic identification processes that must be at the heart of what happens in the mind of the bilingual speaker in actuating contact-induced change.
Underuse of Anthracyclines in Women with HER-2+ Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Montemurro Filippo , Rossi Valentina , Nolè Franco , Redana Stefania , Donadio Michela , Martinello Rossella , Verri Elena , Valabrega Giorgio , Rocca Maria Cossu , Jacomuzzi Maria Elena , Viale Giuseppe , Sapino Anna , Aglietta Massimo
Published: June 2010

Anthracyclines are among the most active drugs in breast cancer. Because of excessive cardiotoxicity, their use in combination with trastuzumab has been discouraged in patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)-2+ metastatic breast cancer. We sought to describe how this treatment paradigm influenced the use of anthracyclines in this patient setting.

We analyzed a multi-institutional database containing the treatment history of 450 patients who received at least one trastuzumab-based regimen for HER-2+ metastatic breast cancer. Patients were considered eligible for anthracyclines for metastatic disease if they were never exposed (NE) or had been previously exposed (PE) to an anthracycline in the neoadjuvant or adjuvant setting and had relapsed after 12 months from the last dose. We then assessed the use of anthracycline-based therapy after failure with the first trastuzumab-based regimen in eligible patients.

Three-hundred twenty-one patients were considered eligible for anthracyclines. In total, 190 eligible patients developing disease progression during the initial trastuzumab-based therapy were analyzed. An anthracycline was administered as first salvage treatment in 14 NE and two PE patients. Another 15 NE and nine PE patients received an anthracycline as a further line of therapy. Of 119 eligible patients who died from breast cancer, only 30 received an anthracycline for metastatic disease.

In conclusion, despite the fact that two thirds of the patients receiving trastuzumab-based therapy for HER-2 metastatic breast cancer are eligible for anthracyclines, these drugs are infrequently used nowadays to treat trastuzumab-refractory disease. A role for these compounds should be redefined in this patient subset.
Orphan nuclear receptors in breast cancer pathogenesis and therapeutic response
Authors: Riggins Rebecca B , Mazzotta Mary M , Maniya Omar Z , Clarke Robert
Published: June 2010

Nuclear receptors comprise a large family of highly conserved transcription factors that regulate many key processes in normal and neoplastic tissues. Most nuclear receptors share a common, highly conserved domain structure that includes a carboxy-terminal ligand-binding domain. However, a subgroup of this gene family is known as the orphan nuclear receptors because to date there are no known natural ligands that regulate their activity. Many of the 25 nuclear receptors classified as orphan play critical roles in embryonic development, metabolism, and the regulation of circadian rhythm. Here, we review the emerging role(s) of orphan nuclear receptors in breast cancer, with a particular focus on two of the estrogen-related receptors (ERRα and ERRγ) and several others implicated in clinical outcome and response or resistance to cytotoxic or endocrine therapies, including the chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter transcription factors, nerve growth factor-induced B, DAX-1, liver receptor homolog-1, and retinoic acid-related orphan receptor α. We also propose that a clearer understanding of the function of orphan nuclear receptors in mammary gland development and normal mammary tissues could significantly improve our ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent breast cancer.
Novel targets for prostate cancer chemoprevention
Authors: Sarkar Fazlul H , Li Yiwei , Wang Zhiwei , Kong Dejuan
Published: June 2010

Among many endocrine-related cancers, prostate cancer (PCa) is the most frequent male malignancy, and it is the second most common cause of cancer-related death in men in the United States. Therefore, this review focuses on summarizing the knowledge of molecular signaling pathways in PCa because, in order to better design new preventive strategies for the fight against PCa, documentation of the knowledge on the pathogenesis of PCa at the molecular level is very important. Cancer cells are known to have alterations in multiple cellular signaling pathways; indeed, the development and the progression of PCa are known to be caused by the deregulation of several selective signaling pathways such as the androgen receptor, Akt, nuclear factor-κB, Wnt, Hedgehog, and Notch. Therefore, strategies targeting these important pathways and their upstream and downstream signaling could be promising for the prevention of PCa progression. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the alterations in cell signaling pathways during the development and progression of PCa, and document compelling evidence showing that these are the targets of several natural agents against PCa progression and its metastases.
Planning, Design, and Startup of a Large, Innovative Membrane Bioreactor Facility
Authors: Fleischer E. J. , Fonseca A. D. , Daigger G. T. , Canham R. A. , Broderick T. A. , Johnson N. A. , Lynch D. P.
Published: June 2010

The planning, design, and startup of the Broad Run Water Reclamation Facility (WRF), a new 41,600-cubic-metres-per-day (m3/day) (11-million-gallon-per-day) facility owned and operated by Loudoun Water in Ashburn, Virginia, is discussed. Located in suburban area near Washington, DC, in the Dulles Area Watershed, and upstream of a drinking water supply in the Potomac River, the facility sets a new world-wide technology standard for environmental protection and water reclamation. The Broad Run WRF uses a membrane bioreactor (MBR), followed by granular activated carbon (GAC) treatment and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection and is the first large-scale application of this combination of treatment technologies in the world. The facility is designed to meet stringent discharge limits, including a total nitrogen (TN) limit of 4 milligrams per liter (mg/L), a total phosphorus (TP) limit of 0.1 mg/L, and a chemical oxygen demand (COD) limit of 10 mg/L. The MBR, operated in a 5-Stage Bardenpho configuration and modified to save aeration energy by recycling the highly oxygenated return activated sludge (RAS) of the MBR to the first aerobic stage, is also one of the application points of alum for phosphorus removal. The facility is one of the largest operating MBR installations in the United States.
Chlorate and perchlorate – new criterions for environmentally-friendly processes in Advanced Oxidation
Authors: Bergmann M.E.H. , Rollin J. , Koparal A.S.
Published: June 2010

Studying electrolysis processes in drinking water disinfection it was found that chlorate and perchlorate can be formed at high extent on several electrode materials. Formation potential differs by orders of magnitude comparing mixed oxide (MIO), Pt and boron doped diamond (BDD) anodes. Highest concentrations were found using the doped diamond electrodes. Extended studies showed that chlorate and perchlorate may be formed also in other processes of so-called Advanced Oxidation. Therefore, the authors propose both components as new inorganic assessment criterions in environmentally-oriented water treatment.
Metoprolol behaviour in drinking water electrolysis using mixed oxide and boron doped diamond anodes
Authors: Bergmann M.E.H. , Kresse K. , Rollin J. , Hartmann J.
Published: June 2010

Metoprolol tartrate was electrolysed at 20°C in aqueous systems using mixed oxide and boron doped diamond anodes. Fast depletion was observed when chloride ions were components of the waters. Additional ions such as sulphate and nitrate decreased the oxidation rate. Higher chloride concentration and current densities up to 200 A m-2 accelerated metoprolol destruction. 4-(2-methoxyethyle)-phenol and 3-chloro-4-hydroxyphenyle acidic acid were identified as reaction by-products.
Optimization of the Hydrodynamic Sludge Pre-Treatment System with Venturi Tubes
Authors: Maeng J. W. , Lee E. Y. , Bae J. H.
Published: June 2010

Most of the sludge pre-treatment methods to improve the anaerobic digestibility are not adopted in the fields because of low economical efficiency. The venturi cavitation system (VCS) using hydrodynamic cavitation is simple in design and operates with a low operating cost compared to most of the current sludge pretreatment methods. Research was conducted to investigate the optimum design and operating conditions of the VCS for pretreatment of waste activated sludge. The experimental results indicate that the optimum number of venturis in series is three (three-venturi units). The suction mode operation of the pump used yielded 1.6 times higher solubilization efficiency per unit of energy consumption than the discharge mode. Variations in the size of the venturi throat diameter with the three-venturi unit did not affect solubilization efficiency. Also, a parallel installation with two three-venturi units yielded 30% higher solubilization efficiency per unit of energy consumption than did a single three-venturi unit. With the parallel venturi unit, the solubilization efficiency was 5.6 mg △SCOD/g TS/kWh, which is higher than previously reported values.
Solids Minimization with Thermal Processing: Comparing the Benefits
Authors: Tian X. Y. , Welp J. , Rowan J. , Hartinger C.
Published: June 2010

Solids minimization is a key consideration in the operation and cost of a treatment system, the potential disposal options for the final solids, and the sustainability of the process. Historically, solids minimization has been accomplished using wet processes that improve the digestibility. However, thermal process, including well established technologies such as incineration or heat drying, as well as some “emerging” technologies such as gasification or sludge-to-fuel options, are gaining interest. Not only do these processes reduce the total volume of material requiring disposal or reuse, but some of the processes can take advantage of the energy inherent in the solids and are being considered as net energy producers. The conclusions show substantial reduction of solids for further reuse or disposal is possible with thermal processing
Biosolids master planning: a roadmap to success
Authors: Scanlan P. , Yong Tian Xian , Santha H. , Stone L. , Johnson T.
Published: June 2010

Biosolids master planning is critical to the long term sustainability of a wastewater plant. However, when wastewater treatment plants are designed or expanded, biosolids treatment and final use may not receive the same consideration as the liquid stream. Careful planning and design of the biosolids management system can minimize unforeseen modifications and risks resulting from regulatory changes, reduced access to land application or landfill, or unanticipated operating cost increases. An effective biosolids plan must provide direction for the future, while considering opportunities for diverse outlets, potential for technology changes, and long term sustainability. This paper discusses the elements of an effective biosolids master plan and provides information from three biosolids planning case studies as illustrations.
Supervision of Pumps and their Operating Conditions in Sewage Pumping Stations
Authors: Kallesøe Carsten Skovmose , Eriksen Mick
Published: June 2010

The main energy consumers in sewer networks are the sewage pumps. Therefore, to minimize the energy consumption, it is essential that these pumps operate under satisfactory conditions. Knowledge about the efficiency of the pumps and their operating conditions can help the pump station management to operate the system optimal. In the search for innovative solutions that can help the sewer management with this information, we propose a method that provides information on the pump flows, the inflow to a sewage pit, and an online estimate of the efficiency of the pump. All these information are obtained without a flow sensor. We argued that the calculated flow values can be used by the sewer management to optimize the operation on the sewer pumps, and the efficiency estimate can be used for optimal scheduling of maintain procedures. The flow and the efficiency estimations are exemplified on a pumping station of the sewer network in Herning, Denmark.
Prevention of Biofouling in Industrial RO Systems: Experiences with Peracetic Acid
Authors: van den Broek W.B.P. , Boorsma M.J. , Huiting H. , Dusamos M.G. , van Agtmaal S.
Published: June 2010

Biofouling is the major fouling type occurring in reverse osmosis (RO) plants treating surface water or effluent from a waste water treatment plant. Severe biofouling can result in operational problems, higher energy and chemical consumption and premature membrane replacement. There are different methods to control biofouling. One method is removal of nutrients in the pre-treatment of the membrane filtration plant, another method is periodic removal of biofouling by chemical cleanings or the use of chemicals to prevent biological growth in the RO systems. In this paper the results of experiments with peracetic acid on three different full scale plants are presented. Two of the plants are operated by Evides Industriewater, the third one by Bètawater, a subsidiary company for industry water of Waterleidingmaatschappij Drenthe (WMD).

One of the main outcomes is that biofouling can be controlled fully on reverse osmosis (RO) plants with the applied method with a peracetic acid based product (Divosan Activ). If the proper measures are taken to avoid oxidation damage due to transition metals, this method with the environmental friendly product results in a stable process and savings by a significantly reduced CIP interval.
Water Balance in a Refinery and Water Reuse Options: Building an Auxiliary Tool for Water Resources Management
Authors: Nogueira D. M. , Mendes C. G. da Nave
Published: June 2010

The main purpose of this study is to conduct a survey on the detailed Water Balance of Paulínia Refinery, focusing all process units so as to allow its use as data basis for the management of water resources that are consumed there in different forms (natural water, process water, for the fire prevention system, drinkable, demineralized, steam etc,).

The main result shows that 61.5% of the total water collected by the refinery does not reach the effluents treatment station, that is, losses occur during the processes, mainly due to the evaporation in the cooling towers, an intrinsic process factor. Another important identified aspect refers to the relation between equipment maintenance and the consequent water waste. Once these problems are solved, it is estimated that the collection could be reduced by 6.4% and the effluents generation by 16.9%.
Using monochloramines to disinfect drinking water: the effects it has on lead content
Authors: Rizzuti A.M. , Rogers L.N.
Published: June 2010

Over the past ten years, several U.S. cities have switched from using free chlorine to chloramines to disinfect drinking water. Coincident with this shift have been reports by some water districts of lead (Pb) levels in drinking water that exceed the action limit of 15ppb set by the EPA. In this paper, a study was conducted on a water district that utilizes monochloramines to disinfect drinking water. The purpose of this research was to determine the Pb content of drinking water treated in this district. Water samples were collected both from homes with and from homes without Pb plumbing. The water samples were analyzed for Pb content using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Samples obtained from homes without Pb plumbing had a Pb concentration range of 10.7 ppb − 20.3 ppb (average = 15.9 ppb), whereas samples obtained from homes with Pb plumbing had a Pb concentration range of 20.4 ppb − 73.9 ppb (average = 29.0 ppb). The average Pb concentrations for both types of homes were above the EPA action limit of 15ppb. The most plausible explanation for this is leaching of Pb from the water distribution system caused by the water treatment plants' use of monochloramines to disinfect water.
Border bases and kernels of homomorphisms and of derivations
Authors: Zieliński Janusz
Published: June 2010

Border bases are an alternative to Gröbner bases. The former have several more desirable properties. In this paper some constructions and operations on border bases are presented. Namely; the case of a restriction of an ideal to a polynomial ring (in a smaller number of variables), the case of the intersection of two ideals, and the case of the kernel of a homomorphism of polynomial rings. These constructions are applied to the ideal of relations and to factorizable derivations.
Validity of Real-Time Ultrasound Imaging to Measure Anterior Hip Muscle Size: A Comparison With Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Mendis M. Dilani , Wilson Stephen J. , Stanton Warren , Hides Julie A.
Published: June 2010

Study Design

Clinical measurement, criterion standard.

Objectives

To investigate the validity of real-time ultrasound imaging (USI) to measure individual anterior hip muscle cross-sectional area.

Background

The hip flexor muscles are important for hip joint function and could be affected by joint pathology or injury. Objectively documenting individual anterior hip muscle size can be useful in identifying muscle size asymmetry and monitoring treatment efficacy for patients with hip problems. USI offers a novel method of measuring individual muscle size in the clinic, but its validity in measuring the anterior hip muscles has not been investigated.

Methods

Nine healthy participants (5 males, 4 females) underwent imaging of their iliopsoas, sartorius, and rectus femoris muscles with USI and magnetic resonance imaging. Bilateral muscle cross-sectional areas were measured on images from both modalities.

Results

There was no significant difference (P>.05) in mean cross-sectional area measurements from USI and magnetic resonance imaging for each muscle. Agreement between measurements was high for the iliopsoas (left: intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC3,1] = 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.51, 0.97; right: ICC3,1 = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.57, 0.97), sartorius (left: ICC3,1 = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.41, 0.96; right: ICC3,1 = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.39, 0.95), and rectus femoris (left: ICC3,1 = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.49, 0.96; right: ICC3,1 = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.97). Reliability of measuring each muscle with USI was high between 2 trials (ICCs3,1 = 0.84 to 0.94).

Conclusions

USI is a valid measure of iliopsoas, sartorius, and rectus femoris muscle size in healthy people, as long as a strict measurement protocol is followed. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(9):577–581.doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3286
Prognostic factors for the incidence and recovery of delayed facial nerve palsy after vestibular schwannoma resection
Authors: Morton Ryan P. , Ackerman Paul D. , Pisansky Marc T. , Krezalek Monika , Leonetti John P. , Raffin Michael J.M. , Anderson Douglas E.
Published: June 2010

Object

Preservation of facial nerve function in vestibular schwannoma (VS) resections remains a significant operative challenge. Delayed facial palsy (DFP) is one specific challenge yet to be fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate DFP among VS resection cases to identify significant prognostic factors associated with its incidence and clinical recovery.

Methods

This investigation involves a retrospective review of 104 cases of VS resection that occurred between December 2005 and May 2007. Patients who developed DFP were compared with patients exhibiting no facial palsy postoperatively with regard to surgical approach, severity and day of palsy onset, tumor size, intraoperative facial nerve monitoring, and postoperative recovery and treatment. Patients who demonstrated immediate facial palsy (IFP) following VS resection were also analyzed. Furthermore, specific analyses were performed in 2 distinct DFP patient groups: those who developed DFP after postoperative Day 3 (“late onset DFP”), and those whose palsy worsened after initial DFP identification (“deteriorators”).

Results

Of the 104 patients who underwent VS resection, 25.0% developed DFP and 8.6% demonstrated IFP postoperatively. The DFP group did not differ significantly in any measure when compared with patients with no postoperative facial palsy. However, patients with DFP presented with significantly smaller tumor sizes than patients with IFP. This IFP group averaged significantly smaller intraoperative facial nerve responses than patients without facial palsy, and larger tumor sizes than both the DFP and no facial palsy groups. Within the DFP group, patients with late onset DFP showed diminished intraoperative facial nerve responses when compared with the total DFP patient population. In total, 25 (96.2%) of 26 patients with DFP and 7 (77.8%) of 9 patients with IFP recovered to normal or near-normal facial function (House-Brackmann Grade I or II) at longest clinical follow-up.

Conclusions

Although patients with DFP did not exhibit any distinguishable characteristics when compared with patients without postoperative facial palsy, our analysis identified significant differences in patients with palsy presenting immediately postoperatively. Further study of patients with DFP should be undertaken to predict its incidence following VS resection.
Phytochemical and Biological Investigations of Ixora lutea Hutch.
Authors: Sultana Shapna , Rahman Mohammad S , Hossain Md Aslam , Hossain Md Khalid , Rashid Mohammad A
Published: June 2010

Two triterpenoids, lupeol (1) and stigmasterol were isolated from the petroleum ether soluble fractionof the methanolic extract of Ixora lutea Hutch. In our preliminary screening, the petroleum ether, carbontetrachloride, chloroform soluble fractions of methanol extract of the leaves and stem were subjected to antioxidant,antimicrobial and brine shrimp lethality bioassay. All of the fractions showed moderate to potent antioxidant activity,of which the chloroform soluble fraction demonstrated the strongest antioxidant activity with the IC50 value of 3.0μg/ml. In case of antimicrobial screening, all extractives showed mild growth inhibitory activity. However, in thebrine shrimp lethality bioassay, the petroleum ether soluble fraction was found to be most cytotoxic among thepartitionates having LC50 value 0.938 μg/ml.Key words: Ixora lutea; rubiaceae; lupeol; stigmasterol; antioxidant activity; brine shrimp lethality bioassay;antimicrobial.DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i1.5331Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(1): 17-21, 2009 (June)
In vitro Release Kinetics Study of Ranolazine from Swellable Hydrophilic Matrix Tablets
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Nezab , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Roni Monzurul Amin , Islam Muhammad Rashedul , Rahman Mohammad Habibur , Jalil Reza-ul
Published: June 2010

The objective of this study was to design oral sustained release matrix tablets of Ranolazine usinghydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) as the retardant polymer and to study the effect of formulation factors suchas polymer proportion and polymer viscosity on the release of drug. In vitro release studies were performed usingUSP type II apparatus (paddle method) in 900 mL of 0.1N HCl at 100 rpm for 12 hours. The release kinetics wasanalyzed using the zero-order, first order, Higuchi and Korsmeyer-Peppas equations to explore and explain themechanism of drug release from the matrix tablets. In vitro release studies revealed that the release rate decreasedwith increase in polymer proportion and viscosity grade. Mathematical analysis of the release kinetics indicated thatthe nature of drug release from the matrix tablets was dependent on drug diffusion and polymer relaxation andtherefore followed non-Fickian or anomalous release. The developed controlled release matrix tablets of Ranolazineprepared with high viscosity HPMC extended release up to 12 hours.Key words: Ranolazine; Sustained release; Methocel E50 Premium LV; Methocel K100LV CR; Methocel K4M CR;Methocel K15M CR.DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i1.5333Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(1): 31-38, 2009 (June)
Phytochemical and Biological Investigations of Curcuma longa
Authors: Khan Mohammad GU , Nahar Kamrun , Rahman Mohammad S , Hasan Choudhury M , Rashid Mohammad A
Published: June 2010

Seven compounds, turmeronol-A (1), turmeronol-B (2), 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid (3), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (4), 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (5), 2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxyarturmerone (6) and 4-hydroxybisabola-2,10-diene-9-one (7) have been isolated from the carbon tetrachloride soluble fraction of a methanol extractof the rhizomes of Curcuma longa. Careful interpretation of the NMR data and comparison with turmeronol A (1)allowed tentative identification of compound 6 as 2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxy-arturmerone, which appears to be a newmolecule. The n-hexane, carbon tetrachloride and chloroform extractives of the rhizomes when subjected toantimicrobial screening and brine shrimp lethality bioassay demonstrated mild to moderate antimicrobial activity andstrong cytotoxicity with LC50 value 1.56 μg/ml.Key words: Curcuma longa; Zingiberaceae; turmeronol-A; turmeronol-B; 2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxy-arturmerone and 4-hydroxybisabola-2,10-diene-9-one; antimicrobial; cytotoxicity.DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i1.5334Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(1): 39-45, 2009 (June)
Pharmacokinetic Study of Amoxicillin Capsule in Healthy Bangladeshi Subjects using Urinary Excretion Data
Authors: Ullah Md Ashik , Azad Mohammad Abul Kalam , Sultana Rebeka , Kabir Eva Rahman , Latif AHM Mahbub , Hasnat Abul
Published: June 2010

The aim of the study was to compare the urinary excretion data and bioavailability of two 500 mgamoxicillin capsules formulations in healthy Bangladeshi subjects under fasting condition and evaluate the ethnicvariations in drug disposition. Twenty-four subjects were enrolled into this single-dose, randomized, open-label, twowaycross over study. A washout period of one week was allowed between two treatments. Following oraladministration, urine samples were collected at different time intervals and were analyzed using a validated HPLCmethod with UV detection. The pharmacokinetic parameters for two formulations were calculated by noncompartmentalmethod using the software Kinetica and statistical analysis was done for the evaluation ofbioequivalence. The pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that the kinetic disposition of two formulations was similar.This was evident when the mean (± standard deviation) values of the various pharmacokinetic parameters werecompared. No significant difference between two formulations was found when analyzed by paired t-test andANOVA. Therefore it can be concluded that the test product (SK-mox®) is bioequivalent to the reference product(Amoxil-Bencard®) based on the US FDA's regulatory definition. Moreover, an ethnic variation was observedfollowing 64.34% cumulative urinary recovery of amoxicillin over 12 hours when compared with other studies.Key words: Amoxicillin; pharmacokinetics; Bangladeshi subjects.DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i1.5336Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(1): 53-59, 2009 (June)
Preliminary Anti-bacterial Activity of Some Indigenous Plants of Bangladesh
Authors: Yasmin Hasina , Kaiser Md Abu , Sarker Md Moklesur Rahman , Rahman Mohammed Shafikur , Rashid Mohammad A
Published: June 2010

The antibacterial activity of petroleum ether, carbon tetrachloride and chloroform solublefractions of crude methanol extracts of nine indigenous plant species of Bangladesh was evaluated by the agardiffusion method. Kanamycin (30 μg/disc) was used as a standard antibacterial agent. The results indicated thatall the nine plant species (not all partitionates) exhibited moderate to potent antibacterial activity against a widevariety of gram- positive and gram-negative bacteria at a concentration of 400μg/disc. Among them the carbontetrachloride soluble fraction of whole plant extract of Corriandrum sativum (family-Apiaceae) revealed thehighest antibacterial activity against Shigella boydii with zone of inhibition of 29 mm.Key words: Antibacterial activity; Disc diffusion method; Extract; Indigenous plants of Bangladesh.DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i1.5337Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(1): 61-65, 2009 (June)
Development of Glyceryl Monostearate Based Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride Sustained Release Matrix Tablet: an In vitro Study
Authors: Laila Susmita , Haque Tasnuva , Taluker Md Mesbah Uddin , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Islam Muhammad Rashedul , Rahman Md Habibur
Published: June 2010

In this present study an attempt has been made to evaluate glyceryl monostearate (GMS) as a rateretarding material to sustain the release ciprofloxacin hydrochloride from the matrix tablet. The solubility ofciprofloxacin hydrochloride was studied. The physical parameters of the prepared tablets were also evaluated.Release kinetics of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride from this sustained release matrix was studied in 0.1 N HCl usingUnited States Pharmacopoeia type-II dissolution apparatus (paddle method). The effect of polymer load, drug load,hydroxylpropylmethylcellulose to compensate glyceryl monostearate (GMS) and different release modifiers wereexamined. It was observed that the release rate of drug was retarded with the increasing concentration of GMS. Therelease data were treated in different fashion to identify the release mechanism and it was revealed with fewexception that, when GMS is used as single polymer, release of active drug from the prepared matrix tablet appearedto follow the first order kinetics and showed the tendency to follow Korsmeyer model when HPMC 15 cps was usedalong with GMS. Using release enhancers the release pattern were fitted to first order kinetics. From the f2 values itcan be concluded that the release pattern of P-2, D-1, H-2 and H-3 are similar to P-1, whereas the formula of P-1, D-2and H-1 were same. MDT values were found to be increased with the increasing amount of polymer (GMS).Key words: Glyceryl monostearate; ciprofloxacin HCl; sustained release matrix; dissolution studies.DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i1.5340Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(1): 81-88, 2009 (June)
Carbon Management: A Gift of Time?
Authors: Pinkus Karen
Published: June 2010

Rather than a radical realignment of energy sources or usage, ‘carbon management’ appears as unassailably practical; a gift to future generations. This essay calls on deconstructive and impractical thinking to dislodge the security of carbon management as inadequate to the chaotic and unfathomable temporality of climate change.
The Geomorphic Fold: Anapocalyptics, Changing Climes and ‘Late’ Deconstruction
Authors: Cohen Tom
Published: June 2010

This essay does not ask what Derrida's use for ‘environmentalism’ might be but rather how the geomorphic logics released by a dawning era of climate change diagnose what is called ‘deconstruction’ today.
Responsibility, Biodegradability
Authors: Teo Tze-Yin
Published: June 2010

My paper broaches the possibility of a rapprochement between a modulating ethic of responsibility and the environmental issue of biodegradability. The latter is a trope that Derrida has carefully worked through and over extensively, in a response to his critics in the wake of controversial revelations about Paul de Man's early wartime writings in his native Belgium. Derrida's vigilance stems from what he saw as biodegradability's double edge with regard to the survival of a text: foolishly optimistic in its claim to return to a tradition or milieu, even while eradicating the text's singular event. Yet in connecting this text to simultaneous readings of other texts concerning the responsibilities underlying discussion, as well as Derrida's reading of de Man's notion of ‘materiality’ in ‘Typewriter Ribbon: Limited Ink (2)’, I make and trace moves towards a modulating and literal biodegradability that, when thought alongside these readings, brings together futural and material modes of deconstructive responsibility, while remaining responsive to the inter-generational disseminating pressures of past signatures, present events and future contexts.
Balanced Weights and Three-Sided Coalition Formation
Authors: Lazarova Emiliya , Dimitrov Dinko
Published: June 2010

We consider three-sided coalition formation problems when each agent is concerned about his local status as measured by his relative rank position within the group of his own type and about his global status as measured by the weighted sum of the average rankings of the other types of groups. We show that a core stable coalition structure always exists, provided that the corresponding weights are balanced and each agent perceives the two types of status as being substitutable.
Chitosan Modification and Pharmaceutical/Biomedical Applications
Authors: Zhang Jiali , Xia Wenshui , Liu Ping , Cheng Qinyuan , Tahi Talba , Gu Wenxiu , Li Bo
Published: June 2010

Chitosan has received much attention as a functional biopolymer for diverse applications, especially in pharmaceutics and medicine. Our recent efforts focused on the chemical and biological modification of chitosan in order to increase its solubility in aqueous solutions and absorbability in the in vivo system, thus for a better use of chitosan. This review summarizes chitosan modification and its pharmaceutical/biomedical applications based on our achievements as well as the domestic and overseas developments: (1) enzymatic preparation of low molecular weight chitosans/chitooligosaccharides with their hypocholesterolemic and immuno-modulating effects; (2) the effects of chitin, chitosan and their derivatives on blood hemostasis; and (3) synthesis of a non-toxic ion ligand—D-Glucosaminic acid from Oxidation of D-Glucosamine for cancer and diabetes therapy.
New Steroidal Glycosides Isolated as CD40L Inhibitors of Activated Platelets
Authors: Chen Haifeng , Ou Wenchao , Wang Guanghui , Wang Naili , Zhang Linnan , Yao Xinsheng
Published: June 2010

Three new compounds were isolated from the dried bulbs of Allium macrostemon Bunge. Their structures were elucidated from their spectral data as (25R)-26-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-5α-furostane-3β,12β,22,26-tetraol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranos-yl (1→2) [β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→3)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→4)-β-D-galactopyranoside (1), (25R)-26-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-5α-furostane-3β,12α,22,26-tetraol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→2) [β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→3)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→4)-β-D-galacto- pyranoside (2) and (25R)-26-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-5β-furostane-3β,12α,22,26-tetraol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→2)-β-D-galactopyranoside (3), respectively. The inhibition effect of all compounds on CD40 ligand (CD40L) expression on the membrane of activated platelets stimulated by ADP was tested. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited significant inhibitory activities in a dose dependent manner (P < 0.05), suggesting their potential application as CD40L inhibitors.
Implementation of a Vector-based Tracking Loop Receiver in a Pseudolite Navigation System
Authors: So Hyoungmin , Lee Taikjin , Jeon Sanghoon , Kim Chongwon , Kee Changdon , Kim Taehee , Lee Sanguk
Published: June 2010

We propose a vector tracking loop (VTL) algorithm for an asynchronous pseudolite navigation system. It was implemented in a software receiver and experiments in an indoor navigation system were conducted. Test results show that the VTL successfully tracks signals against the near–far problem, one of the major limitations in pseudolite navigation systems, and could improve positioning availability by extending pseudolite navigation coverage.
Will Science and Consciousness Ever Meat? Complexity, Symmetry and Qualia
Authors: Vergauwen Roger
Published: June 2010

Within recent discussions in the Philosophy of Mind, the nature of conscious phenomenal states or qualia (also called ‘raw feels’ or the feel of ‘what it is like to be’) has been an important focus of interest. Proponents of Mind-Body Type-Identity theories have claimed that mental states can be reduced to neurophysiological states of the brain. Others have denied that such a reduction is possible; for them, there remains an explanatory gap. In this paper, functionalist, physicalist, epiphenomenalist, and biological models of the mind are discussed and compared. Donald Davidson’s Anomalous Monism is proposed as a unifying framework for a non-reductive theory of qualia and consciousness. Downward Causation, Emergence through Symmetry-breaking, and Dynamical Systems Theory are used to show how consciousness and qualia emerge from their neural substrate and can also be causally efficacious.
Symmetry and Asymmetry in Bouncing Gaits
Authors: Cavagna Giovanni A.
Published: June 2010

In running, hopping and trotting gaits, the center of mass of the body oscillates each step below and above an equilibrium position where the vertical force on the ground equals body weight. In trotting and low speed human running, the average vertical acceleration of the center of mass during the lower part of the oscillation equals that of the upper part, the duration of the lower part equals that of the upper part and the step frequency equals the resonant frequency of the bouncing system: we define this as on-offground symmetric rebound. In hopping and high speed human running, the average vertical acceleration of the center of mass during the lower part of the oscillation exceeds that of the upper part, the duration of the upper part exceeds that of the lower part and the step frequency is lower than the resonant frequency of the bouncing system: we define this as on-off-ground asymmetric rebound. Here we examine the physical and physiological constraints resulting in this on-off-ground symmetry and asymmetry of the rebound. Furthermore, the average force exerted during the brake when the body decelerates downwards and forwards is greater than that exerted during the push when the body is reaccelerated upwards and forwards. This landing-takeoff asymmetry, which would be nil in the elastic rebound of the symmetric spring-mass model for running and hopping, suggests a less efficient elastic energy storage and recovery during the bouncing step. During hopping, running and trotting the landing-takeoff asymmetry and the mass-specific vertical stiffness are smaller in larger animals than in the smaller animals suggesting a more efficient rebound in larger animals.
AB Toxins: A Paradigm Switch from Deadly to Desirable
Authors: Odumosu Oludare , Nicholas Dequina , Yano Hiroshi , Langridge William
Published: June 2010

To ensure their survival, a number of bacterial and plant species have evolved a common strategy to capture energy from other biological systems. Being imperfect pathogens, organisms synthesizing multi-subunit AB toxins are responsible for the mortality of millions of people and animals annually. Vaccination against these organisms and their toxins has proved rather ineffective in providing long-term protection from disease. In response to the debilitating effects of AB toxins on epithelial cells of the digestive mucosa, mechanisms underlying toxin immunomodulation of immune responses have become the focus of increasing experimentation. The results of these studies reveal that AB toxins may have a beneficial application as adjuvants for the enhancement of immune protection against infection and autoimmunity. Here, we examine similarities and differences in the structure and function of bacterial and plant AB toxins that underlie their toxicity and their exceptional properties as immunomodulators for stimulating immune responses against infectious disease and for immune suppression of organ-specific autoimmunity.
Potenciální rizika evropského procesu kontroly zbrojení v kontextu rusko-gruzínského konfliktu
Authors: Kovács Gabriel
Published: June 2010

The paper addresses the risks and consequences of the suspension of the Russian Federation's commitments stemming from the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) on the process of arms control and the European security environment. It deals with the security dilemma and securitisation in general as well as with the assertive posture of Russia in the post-Soviet region, reminded through the Russian - Georgian conflict in August 2008. The role of the CFE Treaty as the cornerstone of the European security is elaborated as well as its importance for NATO. The paper deals with the negative consequences of the Russian suspension on the future of the CFE regime and European security environment. There are options suggested for eliminating the malicious consequences through promoting co-operation and confidence building between NATO and Russia, currently at freezing point, the worst state since the end of the Cold War. Should the benign measures fail to deliver, with the geopolitics back, adequate military capabilities to counter advanced adversary might be considered.
http://defenceandstrategy.eu/cs/aktualni-cislo-2-2008/clanky/conceptualizing-and-countering-the-movement-for-the-emancipation-of-the-niger-delta.html
Authors: Zelinka Petr
Published: June 2010

The insurgency in the Niger Delta has wider consequence then just for Nigeria (rising oil price as most sounding examples), this article will try to conceptualize the most influential and dangerous contemporary group in the region - the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND). This will be done from a pragmatic point of view, bearing in mind the consequences which labels such as terrorism evoke. The work aims for more than to conceptualize the group but also to propose a counter-insurgency or counter-terrorist strategy, these will be based on the understanding the MEND via the conceptualization.
Úloha NATO v bezpečnostní politice USA
Authors: Štaif Vít
Published: June 2010

The end of the Cold War meant transformation of the role of NATO from community raised for defense of participating member states to a group which manages wider tasks, particularly missions beyond its own area in the Balkans and Middle East. The USA have always considered NATO as its most important European ally, however, after the Cold War its role in the security policy of the USA has lost some of its importance. After international missions in the Balkans in the 90s some of the USA diplomats have begun to think that most of European part of NATO did not mean a reliable ally for the USA. The development after 11th September 2001 has shown that even such a strong state like the USA cannot act without allies, if it wants to lead a successful foreign policy.