bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Changes, Causality, and Foreign Direct Investments: Evidence from the Asian Crises of 1997
Authors: de Boyrie Maria E.
Published: January 2010

This study attempts to determine three things: (1) whether structural changes or shifts exist in the outward foreign direct investment (FDI) data from OECD countries to eight Asian countries, (2) if a linkage exists across OECD FDI flow patterns, and (3) whether the determinants of FDI are consistently the same during the different periods as determined by structural breaks. In order to estimate the structural breaks, Bai and Perron's (1998, 2003) model is utilized because it allows for more than one break in the data. Because the time of the 1997–1998 Asian financial crisis is of interest, the breaks are associated with this event. The results of the principal component analysis show that the signs of the explanatory variables differ from those previously found in the literature. The correlation coefficients between FDI and trade openness, the most significant explanatory variable in the study, are positive and significant for all countries and all periods with the exception of Thailand during the pre pre-crisis period. For most of the periods studied, some sort of Granger causality seemed to exist between FDI and trade openness, mostly in the form of feedback.
Bilateral Trade Balance, Exchange Rates, and Income: Evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Yusoff Mohammed B.
Published: January 2010

This study attempts to examine the effects of real bilateral exchange rates on Malaysia's bilateral trade balances with its three major trading partners: the USA, Japan, and Singapore. The results suggest that the bilateral trade balance, real exchange rate, domestic and foreign incomes are cointegrated. In the long-run, Malaysia's bilateral trade balances are found to be responsive to the changes of bilateral exchange rate in the cases of the USA and Singapore but irresponsive for Japan. There is a clear evidence of the J-curve effect only in the case of Malaysia's trade balance with the United States. The results also indicate that devaluation tends to be recessionary. The findings suggest that Malaysia could use undervalued exchange rate strategy to improve its trade balances with the United States and Singapore but not Japan.
Touching the Brakes after the Crash: A Historical View of Reserve Accumulation and Financial Integration
Authors: Schularick Moritz
Published: January 2010

Over the past decade emerging markets accumulated foreign currency reserves to insure against the risks of global financial integration. They were wise to do so. Countries with large reserves have fared better in the crisis of 2008/09. Yet collectively reserve accumulation had unintended consequences. It has contributed to the build-up of global imbalances and financial distortions that helped create the macroeconomic backdrop for the crisis. This article looks at recent patterns of global capital flows from the perspective of economic history, trying to set events in a longer term perspective. It argues that the crisis could mark the end of the latest attempt to manage the financial stability risks of capital market integration. Emerging markets will not consent to facing global financial flows without large foreign currency reserves, but a return to currency interventions and reserve accumulation would be equally problematic. Historically, the ups and downs of global capital market integration have been driven by varying assessments of the benefits of capital mobility. With the recent crisis the time for such a reassessment might have come.
Reduction of wheat middlings using a conventional and eight-roller milling systems
Authors: Fistes Aleksandar , Vukmirovic Djuro
Published: January 2010

Possibilities for the rationalization of the wheat flour milling process using the eightroller mill on the 1M and 2M passages of the reduction system have been investigated. At the same roll gaps and under the same sieving conditions, the lower flour yield has been obtained using an eight-roller mill compared to the conventional milling system (5-8 %) followed by a higher energy requirements for grinding. By decreasing the roll gap setting and increasing the upper size limit of flour in the process with the eight-roller mill it is possible to increase flour yield and therefore decrease milling energy consumption per unit mass of flour produced without deterioration of flour quality as determined by ash content. With appropriate adjustments of the processing parameters in the eight-roller milling system it is possible to achieve similar milling results to those in the conventional system, while the overall investment, energy and maintenance costs are significantly lower.
Compositional characteristics of commercial yoghurt based on quantitative determination of viable lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Pesic-Mikulec Dragana , Niketic Gordana
Published: January 2010

Yoghurt quality is particularly difficult to standardize because of the many forms, varieties, manufacturing methods, ingredients and consumer preferences that exist. Since these factors will always play an important role, it is unlikely that a uniform yoghurt quality concept will ever emerge, such as has been developed for other dairy products. There are a number of common denominators, however that have bearing on yoghurt quality. Since a number of producers are recognized within the broad category entitled yoghurt. This situation makes yoghurt an interesting, challenging, but also a confusing area to work in. The present investigation was undertaken to isolate from commercial yoghurt the strains involved in its manufacture and determine the characteristics of Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp.bulgaricus. This study is concerned with the lactic acid bacteria (L.delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus) growth in yoghurt from involving different procedures and with the determination of the number of lactic acid bacteria in dependence of the temperature and acidity in the period of storage. Predominant samples of yoghurt were with 11-107/ml lactic acid lactococci (44.28%).
Antioxidant activity of polyphenol-enriched apple juice
Authors: Savatovic Sladjana , Tepic Aleksandra , Sumic Zdravko , Nikolic Milan
Published: January 2010

This paper shows that it is possible to improve antioxidant activity of apple juice by extraction of polyphenolic compounds from apple pomace, as waste, and their addition to the apple juice. Raw apple juice was prepared by pressing of apple mash. After thermal treatment of raw apple juice, depectinisation, additional clarification and filtration, the clarified juice was obtained. In raw and clarified apple juice soluble solids, acidity, reducing sugar, total sugars and brown component content were determined, as well as total dry matter, ash, acidity, reducing sugar, total sugars, total pectins, cellulose and starch content in apple mash and pomace. The total cotent of phenolics in clarified apple juice and apple pomace extract, determined spectrophotometrically using the Folin- Ciocalteu reagent, was 0.496 mg/ml and 6.505 mg/g, respectively. The antioxidant activity of clarified and polyphenol-enriched clarified juice (with addition of apple pomace extract in the concentrations 0.05 g, 0.1 g, 0.5 g and 1 g of phenolic compounds per liter of clarified apple juice) was examined on stable 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals. Based on the obtained results it can be concluded that polyphenol-enriched clarified juice was more effective on DPPH radicals than the clarified apple juice.
Nanoparticles of activated natural zeolite on textiles for protection and therapy
Authors: Grancaric Ana , Tarbuk Anita , Kovacek Ivancica
Published: January 2010

Activated natural zeolite clinoptilolite is microporous hydrated aluminosilicates crystals with well-defined structures containing AlO4 and SiO4 tetrahedral linked through the common oxygen atoms. It is to point out that zeolites act as strong adsorbents and ion-exchangers but having many other useful properties. Due to its cationexchange ability, zeolites have catalytic properties and, for that, multiple uses in medicine and industry, agriculture, water purification and detergents. Zeolites are nontoxic substance, excellent for UVR and microbes protection, for proteins and small molecules such as glucose adsorption. In this paper its positive effect on the metabolism of living organisms and its anticancerogenic, antiviral, antimetastatic and antioxidant effect. The activity of natural zeolite as natural immunostimulator was presented as well as its help in healing wounds. Therefore, the present paper is an attempt to modify cotton (by mercerization) and polyester (by alkaline hydrolysis) fabrics for summer clothing with addition of natural zeolite nanoparticles for achieving UV and antibacterial protective textiles.
Heavy metal ions adsorption from mine waters by sawdust
Authors: Stankovic Velizar , Bozic Dragana , Gorgievski Milan , Bogdanovic G.
Published: January 2010

In this work the results on the batch and column adsorption of copper and some associated ions by employing linden and poplar sawdust as a low-cost adsorbent are presented. The mine water from a local abandoned copper mine, as well as synthetic solutions of those ions which are the main constituents of the mine water were both used as a model-system in this study. The adsorption ability of the chosen sawdust to adsorb heavy metal ions is considered as a function of the initial pH of the solution and kind of metal ions. At lower pH of solutions the adsorption percentage (AD %) decreases leading to a zero AD % at pH < 1.1. Maximum AD % is achieved at 3.5 < pH < 5. It was found that poplar and linden sawdust have both almost equal adsorption capacities against copper ions. The highest AD % ( ?80%) was achieved for Cu2+, while for Fe2+ it was slightly above 10%. The other considered ions (Zn2+ and Mn2+) were within this interval. The results obtained in the batch mode were verified through the column test by using the real mine water originating from an acid mine drainage (AMD) of the copper mine 'Cerovo', RTB Bor. The breakthrough curves are presented as a function of the aqueous phase volume passed through the column allowing having an insight into the column adsorption features. Breakthrough points were determined for copper, manganese and zinc ions. A very high adsorption degree - higher than 99% was achieved in these experiments for all mentioned ions. After completing the adsorption, instead of desorption, the loaded sawdust was drained, dried and burned; the copper bearing ash was then leached with a controlled volume of sulphuric acid solution to concentrate copper therein. The obtained leach solution had the concentration of copper higher than 15 g dm-3 and the amount of H2SO4 high enough to serve as a supporting electrolyte suitable to be treated by the electrowinning for recovery of copper. The technology process based on the column adsorption is proposed and discussed.
Synthesis and structure of vanillin azomethines
Authors: Konstantinovic Sandra , Konstantinovic Budimir , Jovanovic Jasmina
Published: January 2010

Vanillin is most prominent as the principal flavor and aroma compound in vanilla. Vanillin has been used as a chemical intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals and other fine chemicals. The two intermediates, assigned as intermediates I and II, were prepared by using vanillin and 1-butylbromide or 2-chloroacetic acid, respectively. The condensation of intermediates with 2,3-diaminopyridine gave azomethines. Their structure was established by using elemental microanalysis, as well as UV/Vis, FTIR and 1H-NMR spectra. Synthesized compounds were tested for their antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Candida lipolytica and Sacharomyces cerevisiae.
On the spillover of exchange rate risk into default risk
Authors: Bozovic Milos , Urosevic Branko , Zivkovic Bosko
Published: January 2010

In order to reduce the exchange-rate risk, banks in emerging markets are typically denominating their loans in foreign currencies. However, in the event of a substantial depreciation of the local currency, the payment ability of a foreign-currency borrower may be reduced significantly, exposing the lender to additional default risk. This paper analyses how the exchange-rate risk of foreign currency loans spills over into default risk. We show that in an economy where foreign currency loans are a dominant source of financing economic activity, depreciation of the local currency establishes a negative feedback mechanism that leads to higher default probabilities, reduced credit supply, and reduced growth. This finding has some important implications that may be of special interest for regulators and market participants in emerging economies.
A strategic model for measuring intellectual capital in Serbian industrial enterprises
Authors: Kontic Ljiljana , Cabrilo Sladjana
Published: January 2010

Measuring intellectual capital contributes to organizational success and brings managerial, cultural and organizational changes. In analyzing the relevant literature on intellectual capital (IC), it emerges that the benefits of IC measuring and reporting have been linked to value creation. In order to provide a deeper understanding of the character and role of IC and adequate IC indicators, the main aim of this study is to propose a strategic model for measuring intellectual capital in Serbian industrial enterprises. The research findings revealed a lack of both employee innovativeness and permanent competence development of top managers and employees, which may be a significant problem in the potential growth of Serbian industry. The factor analysis showed that the proposed questionnaire (based on relevant scorecard methods) is adequate for investigating the phenomena of intellectual capital in industrial enterprises in Serbia.
On extendability of Cayley graphs
Authors: Miklavic Stefko , Sparl Primoz
Published: January 2010

A connected graph ? of even order is n-extendable, if it contains a matching of size n and if every such matching is contained in a perfect matching of ?. Furthermore, a connected graph ? of odd order is n1/2-extendable, if for every vertex v of ? the graph ? - v is n-extendable. It is proved that every connected Cayley graph of an abelian group of odd order which is not a cycle is 1 1/2-extendable. This result is then used to classify 2-extendable connected Cayley graphs of generalized dihedral groups.
On unique common fixed point theorems for three and four self mappings
Authors: Bouhadjera H.
Published: January 2010

In this contribution, two unique common fixed point theorems for three and four self mappings are given which improve and extend the results of Aage and Salunke [1] and others.
Fuglede and elementary operators on Banach space
Authors: Segres A. , Bachir A.
Published: January 2010

We generalize the notion of Fuglede-Putnam's property to general ??Banach algebra in the sense of Fuglede operator and study the elementary operator of length ? 2 in the context of this property.
Pth mean asymptotic stability and integrability of Itô-Volterra integrodifferential equations
Authors: Jankovic Svetlana , Obradovic Maja
Published: January 2010

Sufficient conditions for the pth mean stability and integrability of the solutions to non-linear It?-Volterra integrodifferential equations with nonconvolution drift and diffusion terms are investigated in this paper. Asymptotic convergence rates in pth moment sense are also discussed for the convolution case with infinite delay.
On the solvability of nonlinear integral equations in Lebesgue space
Authors: El-Abd E.M.
Published: January 2010

In this paper we prove theorems on the existence of integrable and monotonic solutions of nonlinear integral equation in Lebesgue Space. The basic tool used in the proof is the fixed point theorem due to Darbo with respect to the so-called measure of weak noncompactness.
Generalizations of the Fibonacci and Lucas polynomials
Authors: Djordjevic Gospava
Published: January 2010

In this note we consider two sequences of polynomials, which are denoted by {Un(k),m} and {Vn(k),m}, where k, m, n are nonnegative integers, and m ? 2. These sequences represent generalizations of the well-known Fibonacci and Lucas polynomials. For example, if m = 2, then we obtain exactly the Fibonacci and Lucas polynomials. If m = 3, then polynomials Un(k),3 and Vn (k),3 were considered in papers (G. B. Djordjevic, Fibonacci Quart. 39.2(2001), and G. B. Djordjevic, Fibonacci Quart. 43.4(2005)).
Durability design of concrete structures, Part 1: Analysis fundamentals
Authors: Folic Radomir
Published: January 2010

Concrete structures (CS) are designed so that they can satisfy requirements regarding safety, serviceability, durability and aesthetics throughout their design service life. Present design procedures regarding CS required by national or international codes and standards such as Model Code Euro International Committee of Concrete (1993) now Federation Internationale du Beton (FIB), Eurocodes, ACI, RILEM, etc. are predominantly based on strength principles and limit state formulation. The durability aspect is a natural extension of the classical resistance verification where deterioration effects are normally neglected. The reliability is assessed through the given performance that must be delivered within the design service life, the so-called performance-based design. This approach can be adopted for a performance based on service life design. In the recent years design is related to durability through the analysis of carbonation, resistance to chloride ingress, improved freezing and thawing resistance, etc. The review of literature and some recommendations are presented referring to the design of structures aiming to attain greater durability of CS. The accent is put on the theory of reliability, failure probability and service life probability. The basics of this analysis are given through the principles of performances and service life, and deterministic and scholastic methods using the lifetime safety factor.
Some aspects of the stic system stability calculation
Authors: Bujar Emra , Stojic Dragoslav
Published: January 2010

The problem presented in this paper has been treated intensively by various researchers. However, considering that by its nature the problem of structure stability belongs to the area of nonlinear analysis, it represents an inexhaustible source for investigations. Thus, we propose a simple method to determine the elements of geometrical matrix of member rigidity by energetic method through finite element method.
Wetlands, constructed wetlands and theirs role in wastewater treatment with principles and examples of using it in Serbia
Authors: Nikolic Vladimir , Milicevic Dragan , Milenkovic Slobodan
Published: January 2010

Wetlands protection programs, as a relative new approach in surface water and ground-water protection The types of Wetlands, theirs mechanism of removal nutrients and other pollutants from water are shown in this work paper. Wetland restoration, the renewal of natural and historical wetlands that have been lost or degraded, is a growing activity. Constructed wetlands, as treatment systems that use natural processes, are very adequate and highly efficient, low cost way in wastewater treatment for small communities, point pollution sources, depending, of course on conditions and adequate land spaces near those places. Some examples from Serbia of this way and approach are shown.
Pomological properties of promising raspberry seedlings with yellow fruit
Authors: Nikolic Mihailo , Radovic Aleksandar , Fotiric Milica , Milivojevic Jasminka , Nikolic Dragan
Published: January 2010

From over a 100 seedlings obtained by open pollination of Meeker's yellow raspberry clone, 10 seedlings with yellow fruit were selected at the Experimental Station 'Radmilovac' of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade. Phenological characteristics, as well as physical, chemical and sensorial fruit properties were investigated during the period 2007-2008 in selected seedlings and standard cultivar Meeker. Results showed that all examined seedlings expressed later flowering and maturing time than the standard cultivar. The best results of physical fruit properties had the standard cultivar, whereas for the majority of the chemical fruit characteristics selected seedlings showed much better results. Seedling 5 had the highest soluble solid content (15.3 %), while the highest vitamin C content was recorded in the fruits of seedlings 9 (51.04 mg/100g), 10 (51.92 mg/100g), and 17 (50.16 mg/100g). The highest values of the sensorial fruit quality achieved seedling 17 (18.9).
Nitrogen and sugar content variability in tubers of Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus)
Authors: Terzic Sreten , Atlagic Jovanka
Published: January 2010

Several nutritive values for tubers of 114 Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) populations were evaluated during 2006. The used material is a part of wild sunflower species collection at the Institute of field and vegetable crops and it is situated in Rimski Sancevi, Novi Sad. The samples were analyzed as fresh tubers on 'Venema' automatic laboratory for alpha amino nitrogen, sodium and potassium content. Total sugar content was determined as the brix value on a refractometer. Total nitrogen was determined by the Kjeldahl method on dried samples. Significant variability was found for all analyzed traits. Total nitrogen varied from 0,695 to 2,179% dry weight (mean 1,23%), alpha amino nitrogen content 0,012 to 0,118% fresh weight (m. 0,07%), potassium 0,231 0,452% fresh weight (m. 0,403%) and sodium 0,0003 - 0,0143% fresh weight (m. 0,007%). Total sugar content varied from 13,69 - 22,94% fresh weight (m. 19,14%). Alpha amino nitrogen is an essential nutrient for animals so that it's presence in tubers of Jerusalem artichoke as food is positive. The protein content is similar to the one in potato and as such satisfactory for nutrition. The K/Na ratio is high which is useful, because an increased content of potassium in food can positively affect the reduction of Na/K ratio and lower systolic blood pressure by a significant amount in adults with mild hypertension. Inulin makes up to 80% of the total sugar content in the tubers of Jerusalem artichoke, and as a dietary fiber and a fructose polymer it positively influences digestion and sugar blood levels. The obtained results suggest that selection of cultivars and populations with inappropriate nutritive values is possible. Further research is needed to estimate the share of genetic in total variability and to determine whether the selection for new cultivars is justified.
Gene pool conservation and tree improvement in Serbia
Authors: Isajev Vasilije , Ivetic Vladan , Lucic Aleksandar , Rakonjac Ljubinko
Published: January 2010

This paper presents the concepts applied in the gene pool conservation and tree improvement in Serbia. Gene pool conservation of tree species in Serbia includes a series of activities aiming at the sustainability and protection of genetic and species variability. This implies the investigation of genetic resources and their identification through the research of the genetic structure and the breeding system of individual species. Paper also includes the study of intra- and inter-population variability in experiments - provenance tests, progeny tests, half- and full-sib lines, etc. The increased use of the genetic potential in tree improvement in Serbia should be intensified by the following activities: improvement of production of normal forest seed, application of the concept of new selections directed primarily to the improvement of only one character, because in that case the result would be certain, establishment and management of seed orchards as specialized plantations for long-term production of genetically good-quality forest seeds, and the shortening of the improvement process by introducing new techniques and methods (molecular markers, somaclonal variation, genetic engineering, protoplast fusion, micropropagation, etc.).
Durable resistance to Puccinia triticina by accumulation of resistance genes
Authors: Boskovic Jelena , Boskovic Momcilo
Published: January 2010

The individual use of single race-specific resistance genes with major phenotypic effects has rarely provided lasting resistance. However, breeding and combining or pyramiding of resistance genes into individual cultivars has had considerable success, particularly in situations in which the pathogen does not reproduce sexually, as in the case of wheat leaf rust pathogen. In European-Mediterranean region perfomed international investigations of wheat leaf rust proved that breeding of new lines of wheat resistant to Puccinia triticina Eriks. for differentiation of pathogen population, as well as for sources of durable resistance is necessary. Breeding of such resistant lines has proved necessary due to the unsatisfatory survey results of these regions on standard isogenic Lr lines. It has become clear that these regions needed new, more efficient differential resistance genes, as well as sources of resistance. In the beginning, after extensive screening tests of several International Rust Nurseries, 18 donors of resistance had been selected as crosses with recurrent parents' varieties Princ and Starke. These hybrid lines had been comparatively tested with twenty six Lr single gene lines using twenty especially virulent cultures of P. triticina in order to check the presence of these known Lr genes in our hybrid lines. Considerable influence of recurrent parent to the number of resistant genes in used donors was demonstrated. On the other hand, considerable influence of the pathogen culture was established to the number of resistance genes in used donors. In order to enhance resistance and pyramiding genes in these hybrids, the most interesting selected eight lines have been crossed with only effective isogenic ones, containing the strong genes Lr9, Lr19 and Lr24. On the basis of different segregation rations of all crossing combinations it was proved that no one of resistant donors contained the applied strong resistant genes. It means that our hybrid lines contained resistant genes from the donors, as well as three strong resistant genes Lr9, Lr19 and Lr24.
Balkan countries: Catching up and their integration in the European financial system
Authors: Bonetto Fabienne , Redzepagic Srdjan , Tykhonenko Anna
Published: January 2010

This paper aims to illustrate the impact of financial variables on the process of convergence between selected European Union countries and the Balkan countries. Following a delay in the realization of structural changes resulting from the historical legacy and circumstances in which the transition process took place, Balkan countries began essential reforms in their financial systems at the end of 1990s. This included the adoption of concrete measures directed towards the growth and increase of the financial sector efficiency. Given this we use panel data over the period 1999-2007 for a sample of 21 countries, to test the convergence's hypothesis by the Bayesian iterative estimation method. Here two financial variables are introduced to control the differences in steady-state. Our empirical results sustain the importance of the domestic credit and the market capitalization in the catching-up process by a significant increase in the speed of convergence.
The global financial crisis and the behavior of short-term interest rates: International and Serbian aspects
Authors: Djukic Djordje , Djukic Malisa
Published: January 2010

Throughout the current global financial crisis the market has continued to fall due to a lack of confidence of those banks that are not yet prepared to lend on the interbank money market. For instance, the negative repercussions of the crisis onto the Serbian financial sector have created a number of issues including a significant increase in lending rates, a difficulty, or impossibility, for the corporate sector to use cheap cross-border loans and a reduction in the supply of foreign exchange on that basis. The inability of the National Bank of Serbia to follow the aggressive reduction of the key interest rate that has been implemented by central banks in developed countries, partly explains the lack of a decline in short-term interest rates by the Serbian banking industry. The first section of the paper focuses on the effects of the financial crisis through the behavior of short-term interest rates in the US and Europe, while the second section gives an estimation of the effects of the global financial crisis on interest rates in the banking industry in Serbia.
Challenges of industrial development of Serbia
Authors: Jakopin Edvard , Bajec Jurij
Published: January 2010

Built upon education ideologies of the previous century, development of Serbian industry is not able to meet global demands of the modern, 21st century market. Innovative ongoing processes in technology and all industrial branches are global and ever more rapid, and they are circumventing the SEE region. The economic structure of Serbian industry at the beginning of transition was two decades old. At the beginning of 2009, after eight transition years, a short economic transition summary is as follows: the trailing caused by the events of the 1990s is very hard to cope with and we are only half through with this task; on the other hand, we are lagging behind EU-15 and EU-10 more and more. Apart from the analysis of structural non-adjustment of the industrial system and its impact on the macroeconomic balance, the paper underlines a significant role of the state in the formulation of industrial policy.
Computation of asteroid proper elements on the Grid
Authors: Novakovic B. , Balaz A. , Knezevic Z. , Potocnik M.
Published: January 2010

A procedure of gridification of the computation of asteroid proper orbital elements is described. The need to speed up the time consuming computations and make them more efficient is justified by the large increase of observational data expected from the next generation all sky surveys. We give the basic notion of proper elements and of the contemporary theories and methods used to compute them for different populations of objects. Proper elements for nearly 70,000 asteroids are derived since the beginning of use of the Grid infrastructure for the purpose. The average time for the catalogs update is significantly shortened with respect to the time needed with stand-alone workstations. We also present basics of the Grid computing, the concepts of Grid middleware and its Workload management system. The practical steps we undertook to efficiently gridify our application are described in full detail. We present the results of a comprehensive testing of the performance of different Grid sites, and offer some practical conclusions based on the benchmark results and on our experience. Finally, we propose some possibilities for the future work.
PR and PL (PMv) relations for classical Cepheids revisited
Authors: Segan S. , Glisovic P.
Published: January 2010

Using observational data available for a large number of Galactic Cepheids, we determine the relation between the radius and the period of pulsations, by means of a variant of the Baade-Wesselink method. Using, further, the brightness parameter according to the Barnes-Evans approach, we achieve our final goal, determination of the relation between the period and the mean luminosity. The coefficients in both relations are realistic. We indicate the need for accurate angular diameters of the Cepheids, which would be useful since the Cepheids are standard candles in the cosmic distance scale.
Limites ingenii definire: Bourdieu's epistemological question and its significance for archaeology
Authors: Teodorski Marko
Published: January 2010

The paper presents and discusses Bourdieu's perspective on the relationship between observer and observed. The term 'symbolic violence' will also be discussed, as it is an inevitable element of this relationship. The discussion starts from the assumption that scientific thinking itself engages in a particular process of construction of its object, so that the researcher inevitably 'transfers' him or herself into the observed object. Following Bourdieu, I would like to specify this distortion, this inequality in positions, as 'symbolic violence' and to expound some of the questions that revolve around this term.
The influence of organizational and national culture on the acceptance of organizational change: Empirical study in Serbian enterprises
Authors: Sapic Srdjan , Eric Jelena , Stojanovic-Aleksic Vesna
Published: January 2010

Organizational culture is one of the most important factors influencing the process of organizational change. As such it is the object of research and analysis in this paper. Key values held by the employees that impact the formation of organizational culture, as well as the feedback organizational culture has in determining organizational processes are explored. Different relevant classifications of organizational cultures are described depending on research focus. Special consideration is given to the effect national cultural attributes have in this interaction. The specific contribution of this paper consists of presenting a study conducted within a sample of twenty Serbian corporations, in order to identify and examine some specific characteristics of organizational culture generated by the unique cultural attributes of this region. Presented results suggest a bureaucratic organizational culture, dominance of the directive leadership style, and a significant level of resistance to change in domestic corporations. The main goal of the research is to provide evidence for thesis that the process of initiating and implementing organizational changes is determined by national and organizational culture, based on values that promote inclination toward change.
Downregulation of the Longevity-Associated Protein Sirtuin 1 in Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome: Potential Biochemical Mechanisms
Authors: de Kreutzenberg Saula Vigili , Ceolotto Giulio , Papparella Italia , Bortoluzzi Alessia , Semplicini Andrea , Man Chiara Dalla , Cobelli Claudio , Fadini Gian Paolo , Avogaro Angelo
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Sirtuins (SIRTs) are NAD+-dependent deacetylases that regulate metabolism and life span. We used peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to determine ex vivo whether insulin resistance/metabolic syndrome influences SIRTs. We also assessed the potential mechanisms linking metabolic alterations to SIRTs in human monocytes (THP-1) in vitro.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

SIRT1-SIRT7 gene and protein expression was determined in PBMCs of 54 subjects (41 with normal glucose tolerance and 13 with metabolic syndrome). Insulin sensitivity was assessed by the minimal model analysis. Subclinical atherosclerosis was assessed by carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). In THP-1 cells exposed to high glucose or fatty acids in vitro, we explored SIRT1 expression, p53 acetylation, Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) activation, NAD+ levels, and nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) expression. The effects of SIRT1 induction by resveratrol and of SIRT1 gene silencing were also assessed.

RESULTS

In vivo, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome were associated with low PBMC SIRT1 gene and protein expression. SIRT1 gene expression was negatively correlated with carotid IMT. In THP-1 cells, high glucose and palmitate reduced SIRT1 and NAMPT expression and reduced the levels of intracellular NAD+ through oxidative stress. No effect was observed in cells exposed to linoleate or insulin. High glucose and palmitate increased p53 acetylation and JNK phosphorylation; these effects were abolished in siRNA SIRT1–treated cells. Glucose- and palmitate-mediated effects on NAMPT and SIRT1 were prevented by resveratrol in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Insulin resistance and subclinical atherosclerosis are associated with SIRT1 downregulation in monocytes. Glucotoxicity and lypotoxicity play a relevant role in quenching SIRT1 expression.
Increased Glycation and Oxidative Damage to Apolipoprotein B100 of LDL Cholesterol in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Effect of Metformin
Authors: Rabbani Naila , Chittari Madhu Varma , Bodmer Charles W. , Zehnder Daniel , Ceriello Antonio , Thornalley Paul J.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether apolipoprotein B100 of LDL suffers increased damage by glycation, oxidation, and nitration in patients with type 2 diabetes, including patients receiving metformin therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

For this study, 32 type 2 diabetic patients and 21 healthy control subjects were recruited; 13 diabetic patients were receiving metformin therapy (median dose: 1.50 g/day). LDL was isolated from venous plasma by ultracentrifugation, delipidated, digested, and analyzed for protein glycation, oxidation, and nitration adducts by stable isotopic dilution analysis tandem mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Advanced glycation end product (AGE) content of apolipoprotein B100 of LDL from type 2 diabetic patients was higher than from healthy subjects: arginine-derived AGE, 15.8 vs. 5.3 mol% (P < 0.001); and lysine-derived AGE, 2.5 vs. 1.5 mol% (P < 0.05). Oxidative damage, mainly methionine sulfoxide residues, was also increased: 2.5 vs. 1.1 molar equivalents (P < 0.001). 3-Nitrotyrosine content was decreased: 0.04 vs. 0.12 mol% (P < 0.05). In diabetic patients receiving metformin therapy, arginine-derived AGE and methionine sulfoxide were lower than in patients not receiving metformin: 19.3 vs. 8.9 mol% (P < 0.01) and 2.9 vs. 1.9 mol% (P < 0.05), respectively; 3-nitrotyrosine content was higher: 0.10 vs. 0.03 mol% (P < 0.05). Fructosyl-lysine residue content correlated positively with fasting plasma glucose. Arginine-derived AGE residue contents were intercorrelated and also correlated positively with methionine sulfoxide.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with type 2 diabetes had increased arginine-derived AGEs and oxidative damage in apolipoprotein B100 of LDL. This was lower in patients receiving metformin therapy, which may contribute to decreased oxidative damage, atherogenicity, and cardiovascular disease.
Euglycemic Infusion of Insulin Detemir Compared With Human Insulin Appears to Increase Direct Current Brain Potential Response and Reduces Food Intake While Inducing Similar Systemic Effects
Authors: Hallschmid Manfred , Jauch-Chara Kamila , Korn Oliver , Mölle Matthias , Rasch Björn , Born Jan , Schultes Bernd , Kern Werner
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

In the treatment of diabetic patients, the long-acting insulin analog insulin detemir is less prone to induce weight gain than other insulin formulations. Assuming that because of its pharmacologic properties, detemir displays stronger central nervous anorexigenic efficacy than human insulin, we compared acute effects of human insulin and detemir on electroencephalography (EEG) measures and food intake.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Frontocortical EEG direct current (DC) potentials were recorded in 15 healthy men during two hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps that included an insulin bolus injection (human insulin, 17.75 mU/kg body wt; detemir, 90 mU/kg body wt) followed by a steady 90-min infusion (1.0 vs. 2.0 mU · kg−1 · min−1). A higher dosage was chosen for detemir to compensate for its delay in impact relative to human insulin and to elicit similar systemic effects. At 20 min after infusion, subjects were allowed to eat ad libitum from a test buffet.

RESULTS

Mean glucose infusions to maintain euglycemia (P > 0.93) and blood glucose concentrations (P > 0.34) did not differ between conditions. Detemir infusion induced a negative DC-potential shift, averaging −372.2 μV from 21 to 90 min that was not observed during human insulin infusion (146.5 μV, P = 0.02). Detemir, in comparison with human insulin, reduced subsequent food intake by 303 kcal (1,257 vs. 1,560, P < 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

While inducing comparable peripheral effects, detemir exerts stronger acute effects on brain functions than human insulin and triggers a relative decrease in food consumption, suggesting an enhanced anorexigenic impact of detemir compared with human insulin on central nervous networks that control nutrient uptake.
Insufficiency of Janus Kinase 2–Autonomous Leptin Receptor Signals for Most Physiologic Leptin Actions
Authors: Robertson Scott , Ishida-Takahashi Ryoko , Tawara Isao , Hu Jiang , Patterson Christa M. , Jones Justin C. , Kulkarni Rohit N. , Myers Martin G.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Leptin acts via its receptor (LepRb) to signal the status of body energy stores. Leptin binding to LepRb initiates signaling by activating the associated Janus kinase 2 (Jak2) tyrosine kinase, which promotes the phosphorylation of tyrosine residues on the intracellular tail of LepRb. Two previously examined LepRb phosphorylation sites mediate several, but not all, aspects of leptin action, leading us to hypothesize that Jak2 signaling might contribute to leptin action independently of LepRb phosphorylation sites. We therefore determined the potential role in leptin action for signals that are activated by Jak2 independently of LepRb phosphorylation (Jak2-autonomous signals).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We inserted sequences encoding a truncated LepRb mutant (LepRbΔ65c, which activates Jak2 normally, but is devoid of other LepRb intracellular sequences) into the mouse Lepr locus. We examined the leptin-regulated physiology of the resulting Δ/Δ mice relative to LepRb-deficient db/db animals.

RESULTS

The Δ/Δ animals were similar to db/db animals in terms of energy homeostasis, neuroendocrine and immune function, and regulation of the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus, but demonstrated modest improvements in glucose homeostasis.

CONCLUSIONS

The ability of Jak2-autonomous LepRb signals to modulate glucose homeostasis in Δ/Δ animals suggests a role for these signals in leptin action. Because Jak2-autonomous LepRb signals fail to mediate most leptin action, however, signals from other LepRb intracellular sequences predominate.
Factors Related to Perceived Diabetes Control Are Not Related to Actual Glucose Control for Minority Patients With Diabetes
Authors: McAndrew Lisa M. , Horowitz Carol R. , Lancaster Kristie J. , Leventhal Howard
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

To examine variables associated with perceived diabetes control compared with an objective measure of glucose control (A1C).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Beliefs about diabetes were assessed among 334 individuals with diabetes living in a primarily low-income, minority, urban neighborhood. Regression analyses tested associations between disease beliefs and both participants' perceptions of control and actual control (A1C).

RESULTS

Poorer perceived diabetes control was associated with perceiving a greater impact of diabetes, greater depressive symptoms, not following a diabetic diet, A1C, and a trend toward less exercise. Variables associated with better actual control (A1C) included higher BMI, older age, and not using insulin.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients' perceptions of their diabetes control are informed by subjective diabetes cues (e.g., perceived impact of diabetes and adherence to a diabetic diet), which are not related to A1C. Clinicians should take into account what cues patients are using to assess their diabetes control.
Determinants of Impaired Fasting Glucose Versus Glucose Intolerance in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Karakas Sidika E. , Kim Kyoungmi , Duleba Antoni J.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

To determine insulin resistance and response in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and normal glucose tolerance (NGT), impaired fasting glucose (IFG), impaired glucose tolerance, and combined glucose intolerance (CGI).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 143 patients with PCOS (diagnosed on the basis of National Institutes of Health criteria) underwent oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT), and 68 patients also had frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance tests. Changes in plasma glucose, insulin, cardiovascular risk factors, and androgens were measured.

RESULTS

Compared with patients with NGT, those with both IFG and CGI were significantly insulin resistant (homeostasis model assessment 3.3 ± 0.2 vs. 6.1 ± 0.9 and 6.4 ± 0.5, P < 0.0001) and hyperinsulinemic (insulin area under the curve for 120 min 973 ± 69 vs. 1,470 ± 197 and 1,461 ± 172 pmol/l, P < 0.0001). Insulin response was delayed in patients with CGI but not in those with IFG (2-h OGTT, insulin 1,001 ± 40 vs. 583 ± 45 pmol/l, P < 0.0001). Compared with the NGT group, the CGI group had a lower disposition index (1,615 ± 236 vs. 987 ± 296, P < 0.0234) and adiponectin level (11.1 ± 1.1 vs. 6.2 ± 0.8 ng/ml, P < 0.0096). Compared with the insulin-resistant tertile of the NGT group, those with IFG had a reduced insulinogenic index (421 ± 130 vs. 268 ± 68, P < 0.05). Compared with the insulin-sensitive tertile of the NGT group, the resistant tertile had higher triglyceride and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and lower HDL cholesterol and sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG). In the entire population, insulin resistance correlated directly with triglyceride, hs-CRP, and the free androgen index and inversely with SHBG.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with PCOS develop IFG and CGI despite having significant hyperinsulinemia. Patients with IFG and CGI exhibit similar insulin resistance but very different insulin response patterns. Increases in cardiac risk factors and free androgen level precede overt glucose intolerance.
Carriers of Loss-of-Function Mutations in ABCA1 Display Pancreatic β-Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Vergeer Menno , Brunham Liam R. , Koetsveld Joris , Kruit Janine K. , Verchere C. Bruce , Kastelein John J.P. , Hayden Michael R. , Stroes Erik S.G.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Abnormal cellular cholesterol handling in islets may contribute to β-cell dysfunction in type 2 diabetes. β-Cell deficiency for the ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), which mediates the efflux of cellular cholesterol, leads to altered intracellular cholesterol homeostasis and impaired insulin secretion in mice. We aimed to assess the impact of ABCA1 dysfunction on glucose homeostasis in humans.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In heterozygous carriers of disruptive mutations in ABCA1 and family-based noncarriers of similar age, sex, and BMI, we performed oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) (n = 15 vs. 14) and hyperglycemic clamps (n = 8 vs. 8).

RESULTS

HDL cholesterol levels in carriers were less than half those in noncarriers, but LDL cholesterol levels did not differ. Although fasting plasma glucose was similar between groups, glucose curves after an OGTT were mildly higher in carriers than in noncarriers. During hyperglycemic clamps, carriers demonstrated lower first-phase insulin secretion than noncarriers but no difference in insulin sensitivity. The disposition index (a measure of β-cell function adjusted for insulin sensitivity) of the carriers was significantly reduced in ABCA1 heterozygotes.

CONCLUSIONS

Carriers of loss-of-function mutations in ABCA1 show impaired insulin secretion without insulin resistance. Our data provide evidence that ABCA1 is important for normal β-cell function in humans.