bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paying Attention to Moral Purpose in Leading Learning
Authors: Bezzina Michael
Published: January 2012

The Leaders Transforming Learning and Learners (LTLL) project explores the ways in which moral purpose, authentic learning and educative leadership work together in schools to transform the lives of learners, making use of a conceptual framework that embraces these elements. This article takes up the issue of how schools view their moral purpose, what they see as evidence of their endeavours in this area, and how these perceptions change over time. A team from each of the 11 participating schools completed a reflection instrument on commencement, and towards the end of their formal engagement with the project. Two major sections of this instrument tap into aspects of moral purpose: values and ethics. The article summarizes and analyses school perceptions of six of the LTLL schools both before and after the LTLL intervention, and examines changes which took place as a consequence of participation in this important dimension of school life. Broadly speaking, over the course of the program perceptions of the extent to which moral purpose was being realized were more positive, and a wider range of types of evidence was utilized. Within this overall pattern, however, there were some variations in individual schools.
Characterization of 3'-untranslated region of the mouse GDNF gene
Authors: Oh-hashi Kentaro , Hirata Yoko , Kiuchi Kazutoshi
Published: January 2012

Background

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a potent survival factor for many cell types, and its expression is widespread both within and outside of the nervous system. The regulation of GDNF expression has been extensively investigated but is not fully understood.

Results

Using a luciferase reporter assay, we identified the role of the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of the mouse GDNF gene in the regulation of gene expression. We focused on a well-conserved A- and T-rich region (approximately 200 bp in length), which is located approximately 1000 bp downstream of the stop codon in exon 4 of the gene and contains three typical AU-rich elements (AREs), AUUUA. Interestingly, these AREs are well conserved in several GDNF genes. By testing reporter constructs containing various regions and lengths of the 3'-UTR fused to the end of the luciferase gene, we demonstrated that the ARE-induced decrease in luciferase activity correlates with the attenuation of the mRNA stability. Furthermore, we found that several regions around the AREs in the 3'-UTR suppressed the luciferase activity. Moreover, the expression level of the GDNF protein was negligible in C6 glioma cells transfected with the ARE-containing GDNF expression vector.

Conclusions

Our study is the first characterization of the possible role of AREs and other suppressive regions in the 3'-UTR in regulating the amounts of GDNF mRNA in C6 cells.
Platelet hyperaggregability in high-fat fed rats: A role for intraplatelet reactive-oxygen species production
Authors: Monteiro Priscila F , Morganti Rafael P , Delbin Maria A , Calixto Marina C , Lopes-Pires Maria E , Marcondes Sisi , Zanesco Angelina , Antunes Edson
Published: January 2012

Background

Adiposity greatly increases the risk of atherothrombotic events, a pathological condition where a chronic state of oxidative stress is reported to play a major role. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of (NO)-soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) signaling pathway in the platelet dysfunction from high fat-fed (HFF) rats.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were fed for 10 weeks with standard chow (SCD) or high-fat diet (HFD). ADP (10 μM)- and thrombin (100 mU/ml)-induced washed platelet aggregation were evaluated. Measurement of intracellular levels of ROS levels was carried out using flow cytometry. Cyclic GMP levels were evaluated using ELISA kits.

Results

High-fat fed rats exhibited significant increases in body weight, epididymal fat, fasting glucose levels and glucose intolerance compared with SCD group. Platelet aggregation induced by ADP (n = 8) and thrombin from HFD rats (n = 8) were significantly greater (P < 0.05) compared with SCD group. Platelet activation with ADP increased by 54% the intraplatelet ROS production in HFD group, as measured by flow cytometry (n = 6). N-acetylcysteine (NAC; 1 mM) and PEG-catalase (1000 U/ml) fully prevented the increased ROS production and platelet hyperaggregability in HFD group. The NO donors sodium nitroprusside (SNP; 10 μM) and SNAP (10 μM), as well as the NO-independent soluble guanylyl cyclase stimulator BAY 41-2272 (10 μM) inhibited the platelet aggregation in HFD group with lower efficacy (P < 0.05) compared with SCD group. The cGMP levels in response to these agents were also markedly lower in HFD group (P < 0.05). The prostacyclin analogue iloprost (1 μM) reduced platelet aggregation in HFD and SCD rats in a similar fashion (n = 4).

Conclusions

Metabolic abnormalities as consequence of HFD cause platelet hyperaggregability involving enhanced intraplatelet ROS production and decreased NO bioavailability that appear to be accompanied by potential defects in the prosthetic haem group of soluble guanylyl cyclase.
Eosinophils in glioblastoma biology
Authors: Curran Colleen S , Bertics Paul J
Published: January 2012

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor in adults. The development of this malignant glial lesion involves a multi-faceted process that results in a loss of genetic or epigenetic gene control, un-regulated cell growth, and immune tolerance. Of interest, atopic diseases are characterized by a lack of immune tolerance and are inversely associated with glioma risk. One cell type that is an established effector cell in the pathobiology of atopic disease is the eosinophil. In response to various stimuli, the eosinophil is able to produce cytotoxic granules, neuromediators, and pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as pro-fibrotic and angiogenic factors involved in pathogen clearance and tissue remodeling and repair. These various biological properties reveal that the eosinophil is a key immunoregulatory cell capable of influencing the activity of both innate and adaptive immune responses. Of central importance to this report is the observation that eosinophil migration to the brain occurs in response to traumatic brain injury and following certain immunotherapeutic treatments for GBM. Although eosinophils have been identified in various central nervous system pathologies, and are known to operate in wound/repair and tumorstatic models, the potential roles of eosinophils in GBM development and the tumor immunological response are only beginning to be recognized and are therefore the subject of the present review.
ToxR of Vibrio cholerae affects biofilm, rugosity and survival with Acanthamoeba castellanii
Authors: Valeru Soni P , Wai Sun N , Saeed Amir , Sandström Gunnar , Abd Hadi
Published: January 2012

Background

Vibrio cholerae causes the diarrheal disease cholera and utilizes different survival strategies in aquatic environments. V. cholerae can survive as free-living or in association with zooplankton and can build biofilm and rugose colonies. The bacterium expresses cholera toxin (CT) and toxin-coregulated pilus (TCP) as the main virulence factors. These factors are co-regulated by a transcriptional regulator ToxR, which modulates expression of outer membrane proteins (OmpU) and (OmpT). The aims of this study were to disclose the role of ToxR in expression of OmpU and OmpT, biofilm and rugose colony formation as well as in association with the free-living amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii at different temperatures.

Results

The toxR mutant V. cholerae produced OmpT, significant biofilm and rugose colonies compared to the wild type that produced OmpU, decreased biofilm and did not form rugoes colonies at 30°C. Interestingly, neither the wild type nor toxR mutant strain could form rugose colonies in association with the amoebae. However, during the association with the amoebae it was observed that A. castellanii enhanced survival of V. cholerae wild type compared to toxR mutant strain at 37°C.

Conclusions

ToxR does seem to play some regulatory role in the OmpT/OmpU expression shift, the changes in biofilm, rugosity and survival with A. castellanii, suggesting a new role for this regulatory protein in the environments.
MIBE acts as antagonist ligand of both estrogen receptor α and GPER in breast cancer cells
Authors: Lappano Rosamaria , Santolla Maria Francesca , Pupo Marco , Sinicropi Maria Stefania , Caruso Anna , Rosano Camillo , Maggiolini Marcello
Published: January 2012

Introduction

The multiple biological responses to estrogens are mainly mediated by the classical estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ, which act as ligand-activated transcription factors. ERα exerts a main role in the development of breast cancer; therefore, the ER antagonist tamoxifen has been widely used although its effectiveness is limited by de novo and acquired resistance. Recently, GPR30/GPER, a member of the seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor family, has been implicated in mediating the effects of estrogens in various normal and cancer cells. In particular, GPER triggered gene expression and proliferative responses induced by estrogens and even ER antagonists in hormone-sensitive tumor cells. Likewise, additional ER ligands showed the ability to bind to GPER eliciting promiscuous and, in some cases, opposite actions through the two receptors. We synthesized a novel compound (ethyl 3-[5-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-1-methylvinyloxy)-1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl]but-2-enoate), referred to as MIBE, and investigated its properties elicited through ERα and GPER in breast cancer cells.

Methods

Molecular modeling, binding experiments and functional assays were performed in order to evaluate the biological action exerted by MIBE through ERα and GPER in MCF7 and SkBr3 breast cancer cells.

Results

MIBE displayed the ability to act as an antagonist ligand for ERα and GPER as it elicited inhibitory effects on gene transcription and growth effects by binding to both receptors in breast cancer cells. Moreover, GPER was required for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and ERK activation by EGF as ascertained by using MIBE and performing gene silencing experiments.

Conclusions

Our findings provide novel insights on the functional cross-talk between GPER and EGFR signaling. Furthermore, the exclusive antagonistic activity exerted by MIBE on ERα and GPER could represent an innovative pharmacological approach targeting breast carcinomas which express one or both receptors at the beginning and/or during tumor progression. Hence, the simultaneous inhibition of both ERα and GPER may guarantee major therapeutic benefits in respect to the use of a selective estrogen receptor antagonist.
Lateral spacing of adhesion peptides influences human mesenchymal stem cell behaviour
Authors: Frith Jessica E. , Mills Richard J. , Cooper-White Justin J.
Published: January 2012

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have attracted great interest in recent years for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications due to their ease of isolation and multipotent differentiation capacity. In the past, MSC research has focussed on the effects of soluble cues, such as growth factors and cytokines; however, there is now increasing interest in understanding how parameters such as substrate modulus, specific extracellular matrix (ECM) components and the ways in which these are presented to the cell can influence MSC properties. Here we use surfaces of self-assembled maleimide-functionalized polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene oxide) copolymers (PS-PEO-Ma) to investigate how the spatial arrangement of cell adhesion ligands affects MSC behaviour. By changing the ratio of PS-PEO-Ma in mixtures of block copolymer and polystyrene homopolymer, we can create surfaces with lateral spacing of the PEO-Ma domains ranging from 34 to 62 nm. Through subsequent binding of cysteine–GRGDS peptides to the maleimide-terminated end of the PEO chains in each of these domains, we are able to present tailored surfaces of controlled lateral spacing of RGD (arginine-glycine-aspartic acid) peptides to MSCs. We demonstrate that adhesion of MSCs to the RGD-functionalized block-copolymer surfaces is through specific attachment to the presented RGD motif and that this is mediated by α5, αV, β1 and β3 integrins. We show that as the lateral spacing of the peptides is increased, the ability of the MSCs to spread is diminished and that the morphology changes from well-spread cells with normal fibroblastic morphology and defined stress-fibres, to less-spread cells with numerous cell protrusions and few stress fibres. In addition, the ability of MSCs to form mature focal adhesions is reduced on substrates with increased lateral spacing. Finally, we investigate differentiation and use qRT-PCR determination of gene expression levels and a quantitative alkaline phosphatase assay to show that MSC osteogenesis is reduced on surfaces with increased lateral spacing while adipogenic differentiation is increased. We show here, for the first time, that the lateral spacing of adhesion peptides affects human MSC (hMSC) properties and might therefore be a useful parameter with which to modify hMSC behaviour in future tissue engineering strategies.
The MCM-associated protein MCM-BP is important for human nuclear morphology
Authors: Jagannathan Madhav , Sakwe Amos M. , Nguyen Tin , Frappier Lori
Published: January 2012

Mini-chromosome maintenance complex-binding protein (MCM-BP) was discovered as a protein that is strongly associated with human MCM proteins, known to be crucial for DNA replication in providing DNA helicase activity. The Xenopus MCM-BP homologue appears to play a role in unloading MCM complexes from chromatin after DNA synthesis; however, the importance of MCM-BP and its functional contribution to human cells has been unclear. Here we show that depletion of MCM-BP by sustained expression of short hairpin RNA (shRNA) results in highly abnormal nuclear morphology and centrosome amplification. The abnormal nuclear morphology was not seen with depletion of other MCM proteins and was rescued with shRNA-resistant MCM-BP. MCM-BP depletion was also found to result in transient activation of the G2 checkpoint, slowed progression through G2 and increased replication protein A foci, indicative of replication stress. In addition, MCM-BP depletion led to increased cellular levels of MCM proteins throughout the cell cycle including soluble MCM pools. The results suggest that MCM-BP makes multiple contributions to human cells that are not limited to unloading of the MCM complex.
Measurement of Fractional Synthetic Rates of Multiple Protein Analytes by Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Lee Anita Y H , Yates Nathan A , Ichetovkin Marina , Deyanova Ekaterina , Southwick Katie , Fisher Timothy S , Wang Weixun , Loderstedt James , Walker Nykia , Zhou Haihong , Zhao Xuemei , Sparrow Carl P , Hubbard Brian K , Rader Daniel J , Sitlani Ayesha , Millar John S , Hendrickson Ronald C
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND

Current approaches to measure protein turnover that use stable isotope-labeled tracers via GC-MS are limited to a small number of relatively abundant proteins. We developed a multiplexed liquid chromatography–selected reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (LC-SRM) assay to measure protein turnover and compared the fractional synthetic rates (FSRs) for 2 proteins, VLDL apolipoprotein B100 (VLDL apoB100) and HDL apoA-I, measured by both methods. We applied this technique to other proteins for which kinetics are not readily measured with GC-MS.

METHODS

Subjects were given a primed-constant infusion of [5,5,5-D3]-leucine (D3-leucine) for 15 h with blood samples collected at selected time points. Apolipoproteins isolated by SDS-PAGE from lipoprotein fractions were analyzed by GC-MS or an LC-SRM assay designed to measure the M+3/M+0 ratio at >1% D3-leucine incorporation. We calculated the FSR for each apolipoprotein by curve fitting the tracer incorporation data from each subject.

RESULTS

The LC-SRM method was linear over the range of tracer enrichment values tested and highly correlated with GC-MS (R2 > 0.9). The FSRs determined from both methods were similar for HDL apoA-I and VLDL apoB100. We were able to apply the LC-SRM approach to determine the tracer enrichment of multiple proteins from a single sample as well as proteins isolated from plasma after immunoprecipitation.

CONCLUSIONS

The LC-SRM method provides a new technique for measuring the enrichment of proteins labeled with stable isotopes. LC-SRM is amenable to a multiplexed format to provide a relatively rapid and inexpensive means to measure turnover of multiple proteins simultaneously.
Born with low birth weight in rural Southern India: what are the metabolic consequences 20 years later?
Authors: Thomas Nihal , Grunnet Louise G , Poulsen Pernille , Christopher Solomon , Spurgeon Rachaproleu , Inbakumari Mercy , Livingstone Roshan , Alex Reginald , Mohan Venkataraghava R , Antonisamy Belavendra , Geethanjali Finney S , Karol Rajni , Vaag Allan , Bygbjerg Ib C
Published: January 2012

Objective

Low birth weight (LBW) is common in the Indian population and may represent an important predisposing factor for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and the metabolic syndrome. Intensive metabolic examinations in ethnic LBW Asian Indians have been almost exclusively performed in immigrants living outside India. Therefore, we aimed to study the metabolic impact of being born with LBW in a rural non-migrant Indian population.

Subjects and methods

One hundred and seventeen non-migrant, young healthy men were recruited from a birth cohort in a rural part of south India. The subjects comprised 61 LBW and 56 normal birth weight (NBW) men, with NBW men acting as controls. Subjects underwent a hyperinsulinaemic euglycaemic clamp, i.v. and oral glucose tolerance tests and a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan. The parents' anthropometric status and metabolic parameters were assessed.

Results

Men with LBW were shorter (167±6.4 vs 172±6.0 cm,P<0.0001), lighter (51.9±9 vs 55.4±7 kg,P=0.02) and had a reduced lean body mass (42.1±5.4 vs 45.0±4.5 kg,P=0.002) compared with NBW controls. After adjustment for height and weight, the LBW subjects had increased diastolic blood pressure (77±6 vs 75±6 mmHg,P=0.01). Five LBW subjects had impaired glucose tolerance.In vivoinsulin secretion and peripheral insulin action were similar in both the groups. Mothers of the LBW subjects were 3 cm shorter than the control mothers.

Conclusion

Only subtle features of the metabolic syndrome and changes in body composition among LBW rural Indians were found. Whether other factors such as urbanisation and ageing may unmask more severe metabolic abnormalities may require a long-term follow-up.
Successful Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes and Seizures With Combined Ketogenic Diet and Insulin
Authors: Aguirre Castaneda Roxana L. , Mack Kenneth J. , Lteif Aida
Published: January 2012

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening condition and a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The deficiency of insulin leads to metabolic decompensation, causing hyperglycemia and ketosis that resolves with the administration of insulin and fluids. However, an induced state of ketosis is the basis for the success of the ketogenic diet (KD), which is an effective therapy for children with intractable epilepsy. We report the case of a 2-year-old girl who presented to the emergency department with 1-week history of decreased activity, polyuria, and decreased oral intake. Her past medical history was remarkable for epilepsy, for which she was started on the KD with a significant improvement. Her laboratory evaluation was compatible with DKA, and fluids and insulin were given until correction. Because of concerns regarding recurrence of her seizures, the KD was resumed along with the simultaneous use of insulin glargine and insulin aspart. Urine ketones were kept in the moderate range to keep the effect of ketosis on seizure control. Under this combined therapy, the patient remained seizure-free with no new episodes of DKA.
Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Cardiac Markers in Human Serum Using Surface Acoustic Wave Immunosensor
Authors: Lee Joonhyung , Choi Youn-Suk , Lee Yeolho , Lee Hun Joo , Lee Jung Nam , Kim Sang Kyu , Han Kyung Yeon , Cho Eun Chol , Chan Park Jae , Lee Soo Suk
Published: January 2012

We present a rapid and sensitive surface acoustic wave (SAW) immunosensor that utilizes gold staining as a signal enhancement method. A sandwich immunoassay was performed on sensing area of the SAW sensor, which could specifically capture and detect cardiac markers (cardiac troponin I (cTnI), creatine kinase (CK)-MB, and myoglobin). The analytes in human serum were captured on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) that were conjugated in advance with detection antibodies. Introduction of these complexes to the capture antibody-immobilized sensor surface resulted in a classic AuNP-based sandwich immunoassay format that has been used for signal amplification. In order to achieve further signal enhancement, a gold staining method was performed, which demonstrated that it is possible to obtain gold staining-mediated signal augmentation on a mass-sensitive device. The sensor response due to gold staining varied as a function of cardiac marker concentration.
The Effects of Employer and Client Identification on Internal and External Auditors' Evaluations of Internal Control Deficiencies
Authors: Stefaniak Chad M. , Houston Richard W. , Cornell Robert M.
Published: January 2012

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board's (PCAOB) Auditing Standard No. 5 (AS5) encourages external auditors to rely on internal auditors to increase the efficiency of lower-risk internal control evaluations (PCAOB 2007). We use post-SOX experimental data to compare the levels and effects of employer (client) identification on the control evaluations of internal (external) auditors. First, we find that internal auditors perceive a greater level of identification with the evaluated firm than do external auditors. We also find some evidence that, ceteris paribus, internal auditors are less lenient than external auditors when evaluating internal control deficiencies (i.e., tend to support management's preferred position to a lesser extent). Further, while we support Bamber and Iyer's (2007) results by finding that higher levels of external auditor client identification are associated with more lenient control evaluations, we demonstrate an opposite effect for internal auditors—higher levels of internal auditor employer identification are associated with less lenient control evaluations. Our results are important because we are the first to capture the relative levels of identification between internal and external auditors, as well as the first to compare directly internal and external auditor leniency, both of which are important in light of AS5. That is, we provide initial evidence that external auditors' increased reliance on internal auditors' work, while increasing audit efficiency, also could improve audit quality by resulting in less lenient internal control evaluations, due, at least in part, to the effects of employer and client identification.

Data Availability: Contact the first author.
Corporate Managers' Reliance on Internal Auditor Recommendations
Authors: Burton F. Greg , Emett Scott A. , Simon Chad A. , Wood David A.
Published: January 2012

We investigate whether corporate managers' reliance on internal auditors' recommendations in an operational setting is influenced by three recommendation attributes: (1) whether the recommendation was consistent with or inconsistent with management preferences, (2) whether the recommendation was given by an outsourced or in-house internal auditor, and (3) whether the recommendation was quantitative or qualitative in nature. We use a 2 × 2 × 2 fractional factorial design to test our predictions. We find that managers change their initial position more when presented with preference-inconsistent recommendations than when presented with preference-consistent recommendations. We do not find differences in managers' reliance on the preference-inconsistent, non-quantified recommendations of outsourced versus in-house internal auditors. However, we find that managers are more likely to rely on the preference-inconsistent recommendations of in-house internal auditors when their recommendations are quantified as opposed to non-quantified, an effect that is not observed with outsourced internal auditors.

Data Availability: Please contact the authors.
Determinants of Delay Incident Occurrence in Urban Metros
Authors: Melo Patricia C. , Harris Nigel G. , Graham Daniel J. , Anderson Richard J. , Barron Alexander
Published: January 2012

The reliability of train service is a key objective of metro management and a major part of a successful operation. An occurrence of incidents in the network is likely to cause delays to the train service and disorder in the punctuality and regularity of the metro operation and hence affects the service reliability of the metro system. This result suggests a way to improve train service reliability by reducing the occurrence of incidents in urban metro systems. This paper used statistical techniques to identify the main factors that explained the variation in the number of delay incidents across 42 metro lines of 15 different metro systems from 2005 to 2009. The main factors that explained differences in incident performance across urban metro lines were the technology of the mode of train operation, the level of passenger demand, the service level operated during peak periods, and the practical capacity available. In contrast, engineering and usually fixed factors such as the type of track support, the type of rail connection, and the type of rolling stock wheel did not affect the level of incidents. The findings also suggested that metro-specific factors (e.g., differences in maintenance and management practices, operations management, and health and safety procedures) helped to explain the variation in incident performance across urban metros.
Identifying Homogeneous Periods in Bus Route Origin-Destination Passenger Flow Patterns from Automatic Passenger Counter Data
Authors: Ji Yuxiong , Mishalani Rabi G. , McCord Mark R. , Goel Prem K.
Published: January 2012

Bus passenger origin-destination (O-D) flow matrices portray information on travel patterns that can be used for route planning, design, and operations functions. Because travel patterns are known to vary throughout the day, O-D flow matrices can be expected to vary throughout the day as well. A method identifies time-of-day periods of homogeneous normalized bus route O-D passenger flow matrices in which a normalized matrix depicts the probabilities that a random passenger in the homogeneous period will travel from various origin stops to various destination stops on the route. The method uses bus trip automatic passenger counter data to estimate trip-level O-D matrices, aggregates the trip-level O-D matrices into elemental matrices for relatively short time periods, and then considers these elemental matrices as inputs to a traditional clustering procedure that is modified to ensure that a cluster indicating a period of homogeneous normalized O-D flow spans a continuous time period during the day. The homogeneous O-D flow period method is applied to empirical automatic passenger counter data collected on a bus route for which temporal travel patterns are understood. The time periods identified correspond well to the a priori understanding of travel patterns. A parallel method that uses passenger volume, rather than estimated normalized O-D flow matrices, is applied to the same data. The periods identified by this volume-based approach are not responsive to the changes in the normalized O-D flow patterns determined by the homogeneous O-D flow period identification method.
Will Psychological Effects of Real-Time Transit Information Systems Lead to Ridership Gain?
Authors: Tang Lei , Thakuriah Piyushimita (Vonu)
Published: January 2012

This paper examines whether the psychological effects of real-time transit information on commuters will lead to a gain in transit ridership. A conceptual model, which posits a simultaneous structure among psychological and behavioral constructs, was developed on the basis of cognitive models of behavior. Path analysis was used to analyze such a process. A detailed stated preference survey for Chicago commuters composed the data-gathering approach. The analysis results showed that real-time transit information systems might achieve the goal of increasing transit ridership through their psychological effects on commuters. The results indicated that the provision of real-time transit information might serve as an intervention to break current transit nonusers’ travel habits and in consequence increase the mode share of transit use. Moreover, the results of this study suggest that real-time transit information may be more successful in increasing transit ridership if combined with facilitating programs that enhance commuters’ opportunities to be exposed to such systems before using them.
North Carolina Ferry System
Authors: Tsai Jeffrey , Cook Thomas , Findley Daniel J. , Miller Michael
Published: January 2012

The North Carolina Department of Transportation Ferry Division faces several challenges. Recent U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations increasing the minimum crew size on vessels carrying more than 149 passengers require the North Carolina Ferry System (NCFS) to add 79 employees. Difficulty in finding additional funds and certified crew to meet these regulations, coupled with reduced NCFS financial allocations from recent state budget cuts, resulted in a reduced number of ferry sailings on some routes during the peak operation period in the summer of 2009. In addition, NCFS experienced challenges from ferry service outages that resulted from the need to operate aging ferry vessels, a lack of standby ferry vessels in case of breakdowns, and vessels out of service as a result of the increased frequency of USCG dry dock inspections. The NCFS must also contend with unreliable support vessels that have exceeded their useful lives and a lack of certified welders and marine electricians to support maintenance functions. However, these resource and operation challenges present an opportunity to analyze existing ferry operations and to explore future opportunities.
Customer Loyalty and Chicago, Illinois, Transit Authority Buses
Authors: Figler Scott A. , Sriraj P. S. , Welch Eric W. , Yavuz Nilay
Published: January 2012

Customer loyalty is commonly used across sectors to measure a provider's effectiveness in satisfying the needs of its market. According to the most recent Chicago, Illinois, Transit Authority (CTA) customer satisfaction survey of 2008, customer loyalty with the CTA bus had increased significantly over time. This paper looks at the key factors (service characteristics, trip attributes, and individual characteristics) associated with customer loyalty in 2008. The analysis used two methods: a quadrant analysis to highlight aspects of service in most need of improvement and a multivariate regression that attempted to explain the variance in the dependent variable bus loyalty. This variable was measured as an index of three one-to-five scale variables: how satisfied the customer was, how likely he or she was to continue riding CTA, and how likely he or she was to recommend the service to someone else. Findings provided evidence of specific ways in which the agency could increase bus loyalty in a targeted and informed manner.
Defending Transportation Networks against Random and Targeted Attacks
Authors: Lou Yingyan , Zhang Lihui
Published: January 2012

This paper explores several reliability and vulnerability measures for transportation networks and proposes three models for optimal resource allocation for transportation network design or defense to minimize the disruption caused by both random and targeted attacks. The common day-to-day disturbances with less severe consequences are referred to as random attacks, but targeted attacks include both coordinated terrorist strikes and large-scale natural disasters. For random attacks, the major concern would be the reliability of the total system travel time. A robust discrete network design problem is formulated to take into account random attacks in the planning stage. The transport capacity or the unsatisfied demand would be critical in case of emergency evacuation, and law enforcement forces could be deployed to prevent malicious attacks in the first place or to ensure a smooth evacuation operation. The proposed models feature an intrinsic trilevel game structure of the network users, the attacker, and the defender (planner). By exploring the unique properties of the proposed measures and reformulating the problems, the trilevel structure models are reduced to mixed-integer semi-infinite optimization programs. This paper further applies an active-set algorithm, combined with a cutting-plane scheme to solve the proposed models. Numerical examples indicate that the proposed formulations are valid and that the solution algorithm can solve the problems effectively and efficiently. The models for targeted attacks provide practical implications on identifying critical infrastructures for evacuation.
Transportation and Emergency Management Tool Kit for Communications with Vulnerable Populations
Authors: Matherly Deborah , Mobley Jane
Published: January 2012

Communication with vulnerable populations about transportation in emergency situations contains serious gaps. Earlier case studies notwithstanding, the lessons of Hurricane Katrina provided a major impetus to legislation, studies, and action. Much legislation advises that community-based organizations should be worked with to bridge the gaps, but little guidance is given. TCRP funded an effort to create such a tool kit for transportation and emergency managers. The study culminates in spring 2011; this paper presents interim findings from a literature review and interviews. Transportation agencies are not in charge of communication with vulnerable populations during emergencies; emergency management agencies are in charge, but they may delegate such communication. However, transportation, public health, public information, and other agencies have significant community outreach capabilities inherent in their nonemergency roles. The most effective ways for transportation and emergency managers to communicate with vulnerable populations about their transportation options before, during, and after an emergency are learning how to identify and tap into existing resources and the networks of public, private, and nonprofit agencies that work with vulnerable populations and learn how to establish and maintain relationships with those entities. Inclusive planning helps everyone. Creation of accommodations for people who cannot hear or understand the primary language also helps tourists and residents who may lose their hearing aids, their hearing, or their composure in an emergency. Likewise, inclusively planning for people with personal mobility challenges helps accommodate people with temporary mobility problems, such as recent surgery or injury or loss of their vehicles during the event.
Effect of Enzymatic Treatment of Different Starch Sources on the in Vitro Rate and Extent of Starch Digestion
Authors: Kasprzak Mirosław Marek , Lærke Helle Nygaard , Hofmann Larsen Flemming , Bach Knudsen Knud Erik , Pedersen Sven , Jørgensen Anne Skov
Published: January 2012

Gelatinized wheat, potato and waxy maize starches were treated enzymatically in order to increase the degree of branching of the amylopectin fraction and thereby change the starch degradation profile towards a higher proportion of slowly digestible starch (SDS). The materials were characterized by single-pulse 1H HR-MAS NMR spectroscopy and in vitro digestion profile according to the Englyst procedure. Using various concentrations and incubation times with branching enzyme (EC 2.4.1.18) without or with additional treatment with the hydrolytic enzymes; β-amylase (EC 3.2.1.2), α-glucosidase (EC 3.2.1.20), or amyloglucosidase (EC 3.2.1.3) the proportion of α-(1-6) linkages was increased by up to a factor of 4.1, 5 and 5.8 in waxy maize, wheat and potato starches, respectively. The proportion of SDS was significantly increased when using hydrolytic enzymes after treatment with branching enzyme but it was only for waxy maize that the proportion of α-(1-6) bonds and the in vitro digestion profile was significantly correlated.
Freshwater Plants Synthesize Sulfated Polysaccharides: Heterogalactans from Water Hyacinth (Eicchornia crassipes)
Authors: Dantas-Santos Nednaldo , Gomes Dayanne Lopes , Costa Leandro Silva , Cordeiro Sara Lima , Costa Mariana Santos Santana Pereira , Trindade Edvaldo Silva , Franco Célia Regina Chavichiolo , Scortecci Kátia Castanho , Leite Edda Lisboa , Rocha Hugo Alexandre Oliveira
Published: January 2012

Sulfated polysaccharides (SP) are found mainly in seaweeds and animals. To date, they have only been found in six plants and all inhabit saline environments. Furthermore, there are no reports of SP in freshwater or terrestrial plants. As such, this study investigated the presence of SP in freshwaters Eichhornia crassipes, Egeria densa, Egeria naja, Cabomba caroliniana, Hydrocotyle bonariensis and Nymphaea ampla. Chemical analysis identified sulfate in N. ampla, H. bonariensis and, more specifically, E. crassipes. In addition, chemical analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, histological analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA), as well as agarose gel electrophoresis detected SP in all parts of E. crassipes, primarily in the root (epidermis and vascular bundle). Galactose, glucose and arabinose are the main monosaccharides found in the sulfated polysaccharides from E. crassipes. In activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) test, to evaluate the intrinsic coagulation pathway, SP from the root and rhizome prolonged the coagulation time to double the baseline value, with 0.1 mg/mL and 0.15 mg/mL, respectively. However, SP from the leaf and petiole showed no anticoagulant activity. Eichornia SP demonstrated promising anticoagulant potential and have been selected for further studies on bioguided fractionation; isolation and characterization of pure polysaccharides from this species. Additionally in vivo experiments are needed and are already underway.
Photostability of Isovaline and its Precursor 5-Ethyl-5-methylhydantoin Exposed to Simulated Space Radiations
Authors: Sarker Palash K. , Takahashi Jun-ichi , Kawamoto Yukinori , Obayashi Yumiko , Kaneko Takeo , Kobayashi Kensei
Published: January 2012

Aqueous solutions of isovaline and its precursor molecule, 5-ethyl-5-methylhydantoin, were irradiated with ultraviolet and γ-ray photons, to evaluate their structural stability against space radiation. The degree of photolysis was measured and irradiation products were identified using chiral, reversed-phase and ion-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography. The experimental results show that the degree of photolysis of 5-ethyl-5-methylhydantoin is more significant than that of isovaline under ultraviolet light irradiation, while the results under γ-ray irradiation are the opposite. As the products of isovaline photolysis, aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid and alanine were dominantly detected.
Design, Synthesis and Antifibrotic Activities of Carbohydrate- Modified 1-(Substituted aryl)-5-trifluoromethyl-2(1H) Pyridones
Authors: Lou Qinghua , Meng Xiangbao , Lao Zhiqi , Xuan Lingling , Bai Jinye , Hou Qi , Hu Gaoyun , Luo Renna , Tao Lijian , Li Zhongjun
Published: January 2012

Pirfenidone, a pyridone compound, is an effective and novel antifibrotic agent. In this article, we describe the design, synthesis and activity evaluation of novel antifibrotic agents, 1-(substituted aryl)-5-trifluoromethyl-2(1H) pyridones modified with carbohydrate. Most of the title compounds exhibited comparable or better inhibitory activity than fluorofenidone. Notably, compound 19a demonstrated the highest cell-based inhibitory activity against NIH 3T3 (IC50 = 0.17 mM).
Conformational Effects in Non-Stoichiometric Complexes of Two Hyperbranched Molecules with a Linear Polyelectrolyte
Authors: Dalakoglou George , Karatasos Kostas , Lyulin Sergey , Larin Sergey , Darinskii Anatoly , Lyulin Alexey
Published: January 2012

We report results from Brownian dynamics computer simulations of systems comprised by two terminally charged hyperbranched molecules preferentially branched in the periphery, with an oppositely charged linear chain of varying length. Comparison of the findings from the present study to stoichiometric counterparts and to analogous dendrimer-based complexes, reveal that the presence of the second hyperbranched molecule incurs significant changes in the conformational characteristics of both components of the complex. Instead of step-like changes in the average size and shape of the hyperbranched component that were noted in the previously studied stoichiometric systems, a rather smooth change is observed upon increase of the length of the linear component. In addition, a markedly different behavior is also noticed in the conformational characteristics of the linear chain when compared to that in similar dendrimer-based systems. The above findings are consistent with the higher degree of deformability of the peripherally branched molecules which allow appropriate rearrangements in shape in order to accommodate the favorable Coulombic interactions between the two components of the complex. This behavior offers new insight towards the design of more efficient hyperbranched-based systems which can take advantage of the multifunctionality and the structural properties of the highly branched polymer components.
Prevention and Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Cancer
Authors: Semchuk William M. , Sperlich Catherine
Published: January 2012

Background:

Many patients who experience a venous thromboembolic event have cancer, and thrombosis is much more prevalent in patients with cancer than in those without it. Thrombosis is the second most common cause of death in cancer patients and cancer is associated with a high rate of recurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE), bleeding, requirement for long-term anticoagulation and poorer quality of life.

Methods:

A literature review was conducted to identify guidelines and evidence pertaining to anticoagulation prophylaxis and treatment for patients with cancer, with the goal of identifying opportunities for pharmacists to advocate for and become more involved in the care of this population.

Results:

Many clinical trials and several guidelines providing guidance to clinicians in the treatment and prevention of VTE in patients with cancer were identified. Current clinical evidence and guidelines suggest that cancer patients receiving care in hospital with no contraindications should receive VTE prophylaxis with unfractionated heparin (UFH), a low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) or fondaparinux. Patients who require surgery for their cancer should receive prophylaxis with UFH, LMWH or fondaparinux. Cancer patients who have experienced a VTE event should receive prolonged anticoagulant therapy with LMWH (at least 3 months to 6 months). No routine prophylaxis is required for the majority of ambulatory patients with cancer who have not experienced a VTE event. Most publicly funded drug plans in Canada have developed criteria for funding of LMWH therapy for patients with cancer.

Conclusions:

Evidence suggests that LMWH for 3 to 6 months is the preferred strategy for most cancer patients who have experienced a thromboembolic event and for hospital inpatients, but this is often not implemented in practice. Concerns about adherence with injectable therapy should not prevent use of these agents. Pharmacists should assess cancer patients for their risk of VTE and should advocate for optimal VTE pharmacotherapy as appropriate. If LMWH is the preferred agent, on the basis of the evidence, the pharmacist should educate the patients appropriately and work with the prescriber to ensure best care. Can Pharm J
Stories from the Trenches: Experiences of Alberta Pharmacists in Obtaining Additional Prescribing Authority
Authors: Charrois Theresa , Rosenthal Meagen , Tsuyuki Ross T.
Published: January 2012

Background:

Pharmacists in Alberta can apply to the Alberta College of Pharmacists in order to obtain the designation of additional prescriber. This designation uniquely allows them to initiate therapy, in addition to other medication-related activities. Our objective was to examine specific experiences of pharmacists regarding the decision to apply and the application itself, and use this information to help inform other pharmacists who are considering additional prescribing.

Methods:

All pharmacists involved in a randomized, controlled trial being conducted in rural Alberta who had received their additional prescribing authorization (APA) were invited to participate. Pharmacists were contacted via e-mail and asked to respond to questions regarding their experiences in applying for APA. Responses were analyzed using content analysis and the identites of all respondents were kept anonymous.

Results:

Fourteen pharmacists were invited to participate. Review and examination of the responses revealed 3 main themes: motivation, hurdles and outcomes. Motivation can be understood as the reasons why they applied for their APA. Hurdles include any problems encountered of a personal, environmental or professional nature. Outcomes refer to how this designation has changed their practice.

Discussion:

Pharmacists had to address many factors that were unexpected during the application process; however, the eventual outcome of obtaining APA was deemed beneficial, both professionally and with regard to patient care.

Conclusion:

The information shared from these pharmacists will help other pharmacists, regardless of jurisdiction, overcome some of the challenges associated with obtaining advanced prescribing privileges. Can Pharm J
Ontario Pharmacists' Crisis over Bill 16: A Missed Opportunity?
Authors: Rosenthal Meagen , Austin Zubin , Tsuyuki Ross T.
Published: January 2012

Introduction:

In 2010, the Ontario government brought forward Bill 16, which, among other things, removed pharmacists' professional allowances. While many would disagree with this unilateral action by the Ontario government, it also could have served as a crisis for change towards patient-centred care. We sought to examine the response of the pharmacy profession in Ontario to this crisis as it relates to the vision outlined in the Blueprint for Pharmacy.

Methods:

We systematically examined publicly available responses to Schedule 5 of Ontario's Bill 16 during the period from April to June 16, 2010. A rapid textual analysis of the data using tag or word clouds and a qualitative content analysis were performed on all of the data collected.

Results:

The rapid textual analysis revealed that the most frequently used terms were “pharmacist,” “pharmacy” and “professional allowances”; the least used were “layoffs,” “service cuts” and “patient care.” Content analysis revealed 4 themes: the desire to maintain the status quo of practice, a focus on the business of pharmacy, pharmacy stakeholders' perceptions of government's attitude towards the profession and changes to patient services.

Discussion:

It is notable that patient care was almost completely absent from the discussion, a reflection that our profession has not embraced patient-centred care. This also represents a missed opportunity — a crisis that could have been used to move the profession towards the Blueprint's vision. We thought that the Blueprint had already achieved this consensus, but the Ontario experience has shown that this may not be the case.