bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Impact of Changes to CG Codes on the Financial Performance of UAE Firms
Authors: Khalifa H Abdulfattah Mohamed G , Natoli Riccardo , Zuhair Segu
Published: October 2020

This study undertook a comparison of the changes to corporate governance (CG) practices, based on the UAE CG codes, for three different periods of time between 2006 to 2007, 2009 to 2010 and 2013 to 2014. An ordinary least squares model, along with analysis of variance testing, was employed to compare this. The study sample included 47 listed firms in the UAE. The changes made to the CG code during the study period affected the audit and board committee characteristics. The results show that the second CG code change had the most significant effect on board meetings, board members’ education, board members’ experience, audit committee meetings and audit committee members’ education impact on the financial performance of UAE listed firms. The potential policy implications arising from the study centre on ensuring greater firm compliance to meet the expectations of the regulatory body, as mandated in the CG code.
Organic Inputs and Chemical Fertilizer on Carbon Mineralization From Two Ultisols
Authors: Kalala Daniel M. , Shitumbanuma Victor , Adamtey Noah , Chishala Benson H.
Published: October 2020

There are challenges that limit the use of organic inputs for soil fertility management. Amongst them is the limited knowledge of factors that affect rates of decomposition and nutrient release from different organic inputs. A study was conducted on surface soil samples of two Ultisols to determine factors affecting carbon (C) mineralization from selected organic inputs. A loamy sand (LS) from a Kandiustult and a sandy clay loam (SCL) from a Paleustult were used. Fine earth fractions of the soils mixed with organic inputs with and without chemical fertilizer were incubated for 13 weeks and the CO2 evolved was measured. Organic inputs used were biomasses of Cajanus cajan, Tephrosia vogelii, Crotalaria juncea, Mucuna pruriens, a mixture of native grasses and shrubs and composted cattle manure. The latter two inputs are traditionally used by farmers, while the leguminous plants were recommended by scientists. Treatments with chemical fertilizer only, representing the conventional farming practice, and a control with soil alone were included. Addition of organic inputs with or without fertilizer increased total CO2 emissions by 81 to 129% on the LS and by 18 to 34% on the SCL. Adding chemical fertilizer significantly (p < 0.05) increased C mineralization rate constant (k) by 116% on the LS and 48% on the SCL. The mean residence time of organic carbon from treatments grouped by input type followed the order: Control > Traditional > Legumes > Conventional on both soils. In general, the k on the LS was double that on the SCL. The type of organic input, soil texture and application of chemical fertilizer significantly affected C mineralization rates from the soils.
Fertilizer Micro-dosing and Timing of Weeding for Enhancing Finger-Millet Production in Eastern Uganda
Authors: Ekwangu J. , Anguria P. , Andiku C. , Tenywa J. S. , Bisikwa J. , Wanyera N. , Ugen M. A.
Published: October 2020

Finger-millet response to micro-dosing with N and P fertilizer in the Semi-Arid areas of eastern Uganda is not fully known. Consequently, we conducted a field study at Kuju in eastern Uganda in 2016 long and short rains. The study determined the effect of fertilizer micro-dosing and weeding time on finger-millet performance. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with a split plot treatment structure. Weeding time constituted the main plot (weeding at 20, 30, 45 DAS (days after sowing) and 20 + 45 DAS while fertilizer rates (16.6 kg N ha-1 + 10.6 kg P2O5 ha-1; 10.6 kg P2O5 ha-1; 16.6 kg N ha-1; 0 N + 0 N and 83 kg N ha-1 + 52 kg P2O5 ha-1) constituted the sub-plots. Results of this study revealed that finger-millet grain yield was highest (2182 kg ha-1) at fertilizer micro-dosing (16.6 kg N ha-1 + 10.6 kg P2O5 ha-1) and lowest (950 kg ha-1) in plots with no fertilizer. Fertilizer micro-dose application (16.6 kg N ha-1 + 10.6 kg P2O5 ha-1) caused early flowering of finger-millet (52.2 days), whereas delayed flowering was recorded, where 16.6 kg N ha-1 (55.12 days) was applied. The interaction between time of weeding and fertilizer rates significantly (P < 0.05) increased finger millet growth and grain yield. The interaction of N and P fertilizer micro-dose with weeding once at 20 DAS had the highest finger-millet grain yield. Therefore, it is recommended that fertilizer micro-dosing can be used to enhance finger-millet productivity.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Agricultural Science, Vol. 12, No. 11
Authors: Brown Anne
Published: October 2020

Reviewer acknowledgements for Journal of Agricultural Science, Vol. 12, No. 11, 2020.
Farmers’ Preferences for Varietal Traits, Their Knowledge and Perceptions in Traditional Management of Drought Constraints in Rice Cropping in Benin: Implications for Rice Breeding
Authors: Fatondji Blandine Y. , Adoukonou-Sagbadja Hubert , Sognigbe Ndanikou , Gandonou Christophe , Vodouhè Raymond S.
Published: October 2020

Rice (Oryza spp.) is one of the most important crops that significantly contribute to food security in Benin. In the current context of climate change, drought is known to be the main abiotic stress in crops and a major yield-limiting factor for agricultural production worldwide. To assess farmers’ knowledge, the preference traits of the rice cultivars in use, their perceptions and management of drought stress in rice production in Benin, an ethnobotanical investigation was conducted in 50 villages throughout the major zones. The results showed that High yield combined with good grain quality (including good taste, softness after cooking, less starch, white pericarp, long grain length and swelling when cooked), medium maturing and tolerance to drought and flood were the most desired traits motivating farmers for growing rice cultivars. Taste and high yield were the paramount traits of IR841, the most popular rice variety currently cropped in Benin followed by its fragrance. Drought constraints was reported as the most damaging abiotic stress across the villages surveyed with field lost estimated up to 100% at the flowering stage. Changing sowing date (80%), the use of irrigation systems (10%) and the cropping of early maturing cultivars (7%) were the most traditional strategies to reduce drought impacts. Needs for tolerant varieties were clearly expressed by farmers to mitigate drought effects on rice production in Benin. The results of this survey emphasize the need for rice breeders to focus more on improving grain quality in addition to high yield potential and tolerance to abiotic stresses mainly drought.
Tien jaar Nederlands Register Gerechtelijke Deskundigen
Authors: Sackers H.J.B.
Published: October 2020

Tien jaar Nederlands Register Gerechtelijke Deskundigen

In 2020 bestond de Wet deskundige in strafzaken tien jaar. Aan de hand van recent evaluatieonderzoek is bezien of deze wet, en het door deze wet geïntroduceerde Nederlands Register Gerechtelijke Deskundigen aan de doelstellingen hebben voldaan.
Samenwerkingsverbanden en de strafrechtspleging
Authors: Luchtman M.J.J.P.
Published: October 2020

Samenwerkingsverbanden en de strafrechtspleging

Het wetsvoorstel ‘Gegevensuitwisseling in samenwerkingsverbanden’ beoogt kaders te bieden voor de multilaterale samenwerking tussen strafrechtelijke, bestuursrechtelijke en privaatrechtelijke actoren ter bestrijding van ongewenste maatschappelijke fenomenen, waaronder de bestrijding van fraude. Het voorstel richt zich uitsluitend op de normering van de gegevensverwerking die onder de vlag van die samenwerkingsverbanden plaatsvindt. In dit artikel wordt betoogd dat die benadering te beperkt is. Dat wordt geïllustreerd met een analyse van de mogelijke gevolgen van het voorstel voor de verdedigingsrechten en het bewijsrecht, in het bijzonder het leerstuk van het onrechtmatig verkregen bewijs.
Effect of dietary supplementation with Allium mongolicum Regel extracts on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and the fat color and flavor-related branched-chain fatty acids concentration in ram lambs
Authors: Liu Wangjing , Ao Changjin
Published: October 2020

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with Allium mongolicum Regel extracts on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, fat color, and concentrations of three branched-chain fatty acids related to flavor in ram lambs. Methods: Sixty 3-month-old, male, small-tailed Han sheep were selected and randomly allocated into four groups in a randomized block design. Four feeding treatments were used: i) a basal diet without supplementation as the control group (CK); ii) the basal diet supplemented with 10 g/lamb/d Allium mongolicum Regel powder as the AMR group; iii) the basal diet supplemented with 3.4 g/lamb/d Allium mongolicum Regel water extract as the AWE group; and iv) the basal diet supplemented with 2.8 g/lamb/d Allium mongolicum Regel ethanol extract as the AFE group. Results: The results demonstrated that the dry matter intake was lower for the AFE group than that in other groups (p = 0.001). The feed conversion ratio was greater for the AFE than that in other groups (p = 0.039). Dietary supplementation with Allium mongolicum Regel powder and its extracts decreased the concentrations of 4-methyloctanoic acid (MOA) (p<0.001), 4-ethyloctanoic acid (EOA) (p<0.001), and 4-methylnonanoic acid (MNA) (p = 0.044) in perirenal adipose tissue compared to those observed in the CK lambs. Dietary supplementation with Allium mongolicum Regel powder and its extracts decreased the concentrations of MOA (p<0.001) and EOA (p<0.001) in dorsal subcutaneous adipose tissue compared to those in the CK lambs. The concentrations of MOA (p<0.001) and EOA (p = 0.002) in omental adipose tissue were significantly affected by treatment, although there was a tendency for lower MNA (p = 0.062) in AMR, AWE, and AFE lambs than that in CK lambs. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that Allium mongolicum Regel and its extracts could significantly promote feed efficiency, although dry matter intake decreased and could decrease the MOA and EOA concentrations related to characteristic flavor and odor of body fat in lambs, except for tail adipose tissue.
Protozoa population and carbohydrate fermentation in sheep fed diet with different plant additives
Authors: Majewska Małgorzata P. , Miltko Renata , Bełżecki Grzegorz , Kędzierska Aneta , Kowalik Barbara
Published: October 2020

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the effect of two plant additives, rich in polyphenolic compounds, supplemented to sheep diets on microorganisms and carbohydrate fermentation in rumen. Methods: In the experiment, 6 ewes of the Polish Mountain breed were fitted with ruminal cannulas. Sheep were divided into three feeding groups. The study was performed in a crossover design of two animals in each group, with three experimental periods (n = 6 per each group). The animals were fed a control diet (CON) or additionally received 3 g of dry and milled lingonberry leaves (VVI) or oak bark (QUE). Additionally, plant material was analyzed for tannins concentration. Results: Regardless of sampling time, QUE diet increased the number of total protozoa, as well as Entodinium spp., Diplodinium spp. and Isotrichidae family, while decreased bacterial mass. In turn, a reduced number of Diplodinium spp. and increased Ophryoscolex spp. population were noted in VVI fed sheep. During whole sampling time (0, 2, 4, and 8 h), the number of protozoa in ruminal fluid of QUE sheep was gradually reduced as opposed to animals receiving CON and VVI diet, where rapid shifts in the protozoa number were observed. Moreover, supplementing sheep with QUE diet increased molar proportions of butyrate and isoacids in ruminal fluid. Unfortunately, none of the tested additives affected gas production. Conclusion: The addition of VVI or QUE in a small dose to sheep diets differently affected rumen microorganisms and fermentation parameters, probably because of various contribution of catechins in tested plant materials. However, it is stated that QUE diet seems to create more favorable conditions for growth and development of ciliates. Nonetheless, the results of the present study showed that VVI and QUE additives could serve as potential natural modulators of microorganism populations and, consequently, carbohydrate digestion in ruminants.
Application of lactic acid bacteria producing antifungal substance and carboxylesterase on whole crop rice silage with different dry matter
Authors: Lee Seong Shin , Paradhipta Dimas Hand Vidya , Lee Hyuk Jun , Joo Young Ho , Noh Hyeon Tak , Choi Jeong Seok , Ji Keum Bae , Kim Sam Churl
Published: October 2020

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate effects of antifungal substance and carboxylesterase-producing inoculant on fermentation indices and rumen degradation kinetics of whole crop rice (WCR) silage ensiled at different dry matter (DM) contents.Methods: Dual-purpose inoculants, Lactobacillus brevis 5M2 and Lactobacillus buchneri 6M1, confirmed both activities of antifungal and carboxylesterase in the previous study. The WCR at mature stage was chopped, and then wilted to obtain three different DM contents consisting of 35.4%, 43.6%, and 51.5%. All WCR forages were applied distilled water (CON) or mixed inoculants with 1:1 ratio at 1×105 colony forming unit/g (INO), and ensiled into 20 L mini silo (5 kg) in quadruplicates for 108 d.Results: The INO silages had lower lactate (p<0.001) and butyrate (p = 0.022) with higher acetate (p<0.001) and propionate (p<0.001) than those of CON silages. Ammonia-N (p<0.001), lactate (tendency; p = 0.068), acetate (p = 0.030), and butyrate (p<0.001) concentrations of INO silages decreased linearly with increasing DM content of WCR forage. The INO silages presented higher lactic acid bacteria (p<0.001) with lower molds (p< 0.001) than those of CON silages. Yeasts (p = 0.042) and molds (p = 0.046) of WCR silages decreased linearly with increasing DM content of WCR forage. In the rumen, INO silages had higher the total degradable fraction (p<0.001), total volatile fatty acid (tendency; p = 0.097), and acetate (p = 0.007), but lower the fractional degradation rate (p = 0.011) and propionate (p<0.001) than those of CON silage. The total degradable fraction (p<0.001), total volatile fatty acid (p = 0.001), iso-butyrate (p = 0.036), and valerate (p = 0.008) decreased linearly with increasing DM content of WCR forage, while the lag phase (p<0.001) was increased linearly.Conclusion: This study concluded that application of dual-purpose inoculants on WCR silage confirmed antifungal and carboxylesterase activities by inhibiting mold and improving rumen digestibility, while increase of wilting times decreased organic acids production and rumen digestibility.
Socially Responsible Organizational Governance in the Public Sector
Authors: Lasytė Gita
Published: October 2020

The present paper aims to examine the theoretical assumptions of socially responsible organizational governance in the public sector. In public authorities, corporate social responsibility is a relatively new phenomenon. Therefore, the paper focuses on the interaction between social responsibility and the New Public Governance. The article puts forward the assumption that the principles of governance of public goods and public services provided by the public sector are very close in content to the concept of social responsibility. The goal of the public governance process is efficiency and effectiveness not only in public administration institutions, but also in building a welfare society. In this context, the New public governance is in line with the principles of social responsibility. The similarities between the new public governance and social responsibility can be recognized in an understanding the values, processes and elements the primary standards of which are accountability, openness, efficiency, responsibility, compliance with procedural norms, division of power (involvement of stakeholders). The article also discusses the concept and characteristics of corporate social responsibility and provides criticism on the CSR phenomenon.
Institutional Mechanisms and Civic Forum in Coastal Village Governance in Indonesia
Authors: Nurlinah Nurlinah , Haryanto Haryanto
Published: October 2020

The article brings focus to the subject of ensuring the financial capacity of Ukraine as an essential prerequisite for further transformations of the national economy. The modern problems of making state economic policy in the conditions of the corporatocracy are covered. The disadvantages of implementing the state economic policy under the influence of corporatocracy, as a new type of government, which expresses the interests of transnational corporations, are considered. Indicators are determined to assess the spread of corporatocracy in Ukraine when assessing the system of indicators of economic relations between residents and non-residents in the study of the interdependence of the monetary base and international reserves. The implications of currency board for the financial capacity of the state are analyzed. Proposals for improvement of the domestic financial and credit system have been elaborated. The study used the following methodological tools: historical, logical, analysis, tabular, graphical, and comparative methods; abstraction and concretization; generalization.
Performance of Low-Dose Chest CT Scan for Initial Triage of COVID-19
Authors: Bahrami-Motlagh Hooman , Abbasi Sahar , Haghighimorad Maryam , Salevatipour Babak , Alavi Darazam Ilad , Sanei Taheri Morteza , Esmaeili Tarki Farzad , Naghibi Irvani Seyed Sina
Published: October 2020

Background: Chest computed tomography (CT) scan is frequently used for diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially in regions with limited availability of reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction test (RT-PCR) test. Low-dose CT of chest offers acceptable image quality with lower radiation dose, particularly important in younger patients. Objectives: We have designed the current study to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of low-dose chest CT versus early RT-PCR results, for triage of COVID-19 patients. Patients and Methods: From February 20 to April 15, 2020, 163 patients including 100 males (61.3%) with the median age of 65 years (21 to 97), who underwent both RT-PCR and chest CT were registered in the study. Low-dose chest CT protocol was applied with parameters modified from the lung cancer screening protocol. The accuracy of low-dose chest CT for COVID-19 diagnosis was evaluated, considering first RT-PCR results as reference. Results: Of 163 patients, 89 cases (54.6%) were presented with positive initial RT-PCR result. Lymphocyte percentage and lymphocyte count were significantly lower in the positive RT-PCR group (15% versus 19%, and 0.98 vs. 1.3, respectively); while, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was significantly higher (53 vs. 22). Positive chest CT findings were present in 133/163 cases (81.6%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) and accuracy of low-dose chest CT scan were 96.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 90% - 99%), 36.5% (95% CI, 26% - 49%), 64.7% (95% CI, 56% - 73%), 90% (95% CI, 72% - 97%) and 69.3% (95% CI, 61% - 76%), respectively based on positive RT-PCR results. Conclusion: Low-dose chest CT scan provides both high sensitivity and negative predictive value in diagnosing COVID-19 compared to initial RT-PCR as the gold standard. It can be used as an alternate to standard-dose CT scan in areas with high prevalence of COVID-19 disease and limited availability of RT-PCR for early triage.
Effects of a Combination of Foeniculum vulgare, Melissa officinalis Extract, and Nigella saliva Powder on Healthy Menopausal Women with Sexual Dysfunction: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Afshar Shima , Afshar Fariba , Rezazade Amir , Shaker Ardakani Zeinab , Jafari Azar Zahra , Amin Gholamreza , Shariat Mamak , Haghollahi Fedyeh
Published: October 2020

Background: Menopause is a critical period with frequent sexual disorders. Objectives: The current study assessed the therapeutic effect of a combination of the aerial part of Melissa officinalis, fennel fruit extract, and Nigella sativa seed powder on the sexual dysfunction of postmenopausal women. Methods: This randomized clinical trial was performed on 48 menopausal women from April 2015 to October 2017. The participants included the menopausal women referring to the clinic of Gorgan health centers aged between 41 and 54 years with natural menopause (amenorrhea for at least 12 months) and discomfort in sexual activity. They were randomized into two treatment groups. Group 1 (n = 27) received 1000 mg capsules (Melissa officinalis, fennel extract, and Nigella sativa powder), and group 2 (n = 21) received a placebo (1000 mg starch capsules (in an eight-week course of treatment (one capsule per day for each group). The variables in the female sexual function index (FSFI) questionnaire were compared in the two groups before and after the intervention. Results: The results showed that the mean scores of sexual dysfunction in the domains of arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Despite many studies on the effectiveness of Melissa, Foenculum, and Nigella, this study showed that a combination of Foeniculum vulgare, Melissa officinalis extract, and Nigella sativa seed powder does not improve the sexual function of postmenopausal women with sexual dysfunction, and it might be the synergism effect of this combination.
CORPUS DIACRÔNICO: CONSTITUIÇÃO E DESCRIÇÃO
Authors: Pimpão Tatiana Schwochow
Published: October 2020

Este artigo revisita o trabalho de AUTOR (2012) sobre o uso variável do presente do modo subjuntivo. O primeiro objetivo é apresentar as decisões metodológicas para a constituição de uma amostra diacrônica composta por cartas ao redator publicadas em jornais das cidades de Florianópolis e de Lages (SC) a partir do final do século XIX até o final do século XX. Objetiva, ainda, examinar os resultados para a amostra diacrônica em comparação com resultados para a amostra de fala decorrentes de novas rodadas estatísticas.
Variação gráfica em manuscritos oitocentistas da Câmara Municipal de Rio Pardo (RS)
Authors: Moreira Leici Landherr , Costa Evellyne Patrícia Figueiredo de Sousa
Published: October 2020

Este trabalho pretende analisar a variação gráfica de hipossegmentação em manuscritos oitocentistas, sob a perspectiva teórica da Sociolinguística Histórica. Acreditamos que a ocorrência desse fenômeno tenha uma motivação linguística de ordem prosódica e sócio-histórica. Analisamos 410 ocorrências de hipossegmentações e os resultados indicam que a motivação linguística é o fato de o escrevente perceber a existência do hospedeiro e do clítico, mas assinalar a dependência prosódica do clítico em relação ao hospedeiro, registrando, assim, uma frase fonológica. A motivação sócio-histórica é paleográfica, pois a forma do elemento gráfico, se possui ou não traçado contínuo, pode influenciar na formação de hipossegmentações.
A TRANSPARÊNCIA PÚBLICA NOS MUNICÍPIOS INTEGRANTES DO COREDE/MISSÕES-RS E SUA RELAÇÃO COM OS INDICADORES SOCIOECONÔMICOS
Authors: Franke Laura Luiza Mallmann , Visentini Monize Sâmara , Söthe Ari , Santos Micheli Dos
Published: October 2020

Este trabalho objetiva mensurar o nível de transparência, por meio da Escala Brasil Transparente (EBT), nos portais eletrônicos das prefeituras que fazem parte do COREDE Missões-RS, bem como a relação de transparência com os indicadores socioeconômicos. Os resultados apresentam a composição de um ranking, sendo que nos primeiros lugares estão os municípios de Cerro Largo, de Santo Antônio das Missões e de São Paulo das Missões, pelo fato de atenderem a todas as prerrogativas solicitadas. Também se observou a relação significativa, de efeito médio e positivo, entre o nível de transparência e os indicadores população e receita total arrecadada. Por fim, percebeu-se que os municípios investigados apresentam baixos níveis de transparência eletrônica, principalmente no que se refere à transparência passiva.
Gamificación en la estrategia de negocio
Authors: Labrador Emiliano
Published: October 2020

La gamificación, sistema basado en un diseño de juego que lleva a los usuarios a tener una experiencia más allá del entretenimiento, promoviendo en ellos una actitud lúdica, se muestra beneficiosa en su aplicación en técnicas de experiencia de usuario. Al realizar un diseño de estrategia UX, la gamificación contribuye a que durante la investigación se mejore la participación de stakeholders y usuarios.
Method of delineation of in the area of Lake Churapcha in Central Yakutia: generalization of engineering and geological surveys of 1995 and study of modern polygonal microrelief
Authors: Sal'va Andrei Mikhailovich
Published: October 2020

The object of this research is the ice wedge casts and concomitant polygonal microrelief. The subject of this research is the delineation of ice wedge casts on the margin of southern exposure of the Lake Churapcha in Central Yakutia. It is a known fact that in permafrost areas, a pronounced polygonal microrelief is a sign of the presence of ice wedge casts. In geology, “delineation” is the outlining of contours and delimitation of boundaries of the deposits, minerals, and zones with different quality of mineral raw materials and mining-geological conditions, according to the data of geological study for rational development. Ice wedge casts and there is such deposit. The article summarizes the results of field engineering and geological surveys conducted in 1995 on the shore slope of southern exposure the lake that contains ice wedge casts. The author also examines the data from modern satellite images for detecting the activation of polygonal microrelief. The surveys of 1995 confirmed the widespread occurrence of ice wedge casts in the indicated district. According to geological section, the ice wedge casts were identified and delineated. The results of section of the bottom of lake-reservoir demonstrate that it is located in the “thawing bowl”. The presence of ice wedge casts is also indicated by a pronounced polygonal microrelief, which is confirmed by satellite images. As a result of climate warming, the upper limit of ice wedge casts may also change, approximately to 0.3 m, which depends on the air temperature, amount of precipitation and depth of seasonal thawing.
Assessment and Evaluation of Student Learning Through a Project-Based Assignment on Note by Note Cooking
Authors: Burke Róisín M. , Danaher Pauline
Published: October 2020

Many innovative teaching and learning methods are used in higher level education including project-based learning (PBL). Since 2012 a PBL assignment project has been undertaken by master students of the Advanced Molecular Gastronomy module at Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin). The aim is to stimulate student learning and creativity by using Note by Note cooking in a PBL assignment while at the same time complying with the requirements of the annual International Note by Note contest which is held in Paris, France. Direct and indirect assessment methods were used to assign individual grades and to gather student feedback about the module. The direct methods were both formative and summative. The indirect method used was a student feedback questionnaire. Results to date (2012-2019) showed that 92% of learners successfully passed the module. However, further evaluation of individual assessment results revealed that most students achieved higher scores for finding and using resources, asking further questions and developing their own answers than for analysing, synthesising and evaluating information (P≤0.01). Overall students were happy with the module content and said that they learnt about Note by Note cooking, chemical compounds, researching, independent-thinking and perseverance. In future students should carry out a more in-depth analysis, synthesis and evaluation of information.
The Character Development of Louisa Gradgrind in Charles Dickens’s Hard Times: A Statistical Syntactic Analysis of Sentence Type
Authors: Makhloof Suzan
Published: October 2020

This paper aims at investigating the character mental and psychological development of Louisa Gradgrind in Dickens’s Hard Times through statistically analyzing the sentential simplicity and complexity used in her dramatic speeches throughout the novel. Her character development can be reflectedin three phases: before change, in the process of change and after change. The statistical analysis is based on Leech et al.’s (1982) binary classificatio of sentences according to the type and number of clauses within a sentence. This statistical syntactic analysis provides the frequencies and percentages of the occurrence of each sentence type in Louisa’s dramatic speeches in these three phases. Then, these percentages are contrasted in order to reach a conclusion.
Applying Cultural Linguistics to Translation Studies: A New Model for Humour Translation
Authors: Heydon Georgina , Kianbakht Sajjad
Published: October 2020

The present research intends to illustrate the contributions, the newly developed multidisciplinary field of research known as Cultural Linguistics can make to the Translation Studies and the translation of humour as a culturally constructed element. The study starts with explaining the aims and objectives of the research and the key concepts that constitute our model of analysis. Then, as the main objective of this study, we propose a new model for the translation of humour encompassing a typology of conceptual structures for the analysis of humour translation, a large step in Translation Studies, that contributes to the on-going research in translation theory and practice. Later on, we describe how the proposed model and its typology of conceptual structures can be applied to the analysis of examples extracted from novels in translation between English and Persian in comparative studies.
Okot p’Bitek’s Attitude Towards the African Past: A Study of Song of Lawino
Authors: Altobbai Abdulqawi A. S.
Published: October 2020

This paper attempts to textually examine Okot p’Bitek’s Song of Lawino and find out how Okot deals with the theme of the past versus the present (tradition versus modernity) and what attitude he spells out through the song. Is he just advocating an idealization of the past and utterly rejecting the western culture and ways or is he one of those writers who are in favor of a realistic appraisal of the past and blending the modern with the traditional, the western with the African? While the song addresses many issues, this paper will focus on the two issues of Christianity and western education being the most important root causes of the cultural conflict depicted in the song.
Proximate and Microbiological Quality of Roasted Plantain, Its Sauce, Fish and Side Vegetable Sold in Rivers State University and Its Environment
Authors: Chisa Obinna-Echem, Patience , Christian Eze, Simeon
Published: October 2020

The proximate composition and microbiological quality of roasted plantain, its sauce, fish and side vegetable sold in River State University and its environment were investigated. The samples were purchased from four different locations namely staff club (SCL), shopping complex (SHC), back-gate (BGT) and maingate (MGT). Using standard methods, the samples were analyzed for proximate and microbiological quality. The values for moisture, ash, crude protein, crude fibre, fat and carbohydrate were 53.30 - 57.22 %, 2.94 - 3.73 %, 9.26 - 10.13 %, 2.34 - 3.67 %, 11.62 - 13.41 %, and 15.42-20.07 % respectively. The energy varied from 206.76-229.93 kcal/100g. For all the samples from all locations, aerobic count varied from 5.31 - 7.98 Log10CFU/g for plantain and fish. Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Staphylococcus ranged from 4.06 - 7.42, 5.48 - 7.41 and 5.31 -7.90 Log10CFU/g respectively, while Coliform and fungi count varied respectively from 5.01 - 7.57 and 5.01 - 7.33 Log10CFU/g. The leave had significantly (P ≤ 0.05) the highest microbial load. The microbial load exceeded the acceptable limits for ready to eat foods and can be attributed to poor hygiene practices. Some samples except the leave had no detectable levels of the pathogens and fungi. The presence of pathogens indicates potential hazard to the health of consumers,  hence the need awareness on proper handling and hygiene practices among street food vendors.
Mise en evidence d'une conformation stable d'un peptidolipide
Authors: Laneelle G.
Published: July 2002

The Peptidolipide J (CH3‐(CH2)
n
‐CO‐D Phe‐L Ile‐L Ile‐L Phe‐L Ala‐O‐CH3) is obtained also in acidic form by a chromatographic artefact. In chloroformic solutions the ester and the acid behave in a very different way: the acid has a stable conformation, as shown by the infra‐red spectra and the optical rotary dispersion; this conformation is stabilized by hydrogen bonding between two peptide chains associated as a carboxylic dimer.
Structural and functional changes associated with heat‐induced phase‐separations of non‐bilayer lipids in chloroplast thylakoid membranes
Authors: Gounaris Kleoniki , Brain Anthony P.R. , Quinn Peter J. , Williams W.Patrick
Published: July 2002

The effect of hearing isolated bean chloroplasts on the structure of their thylakoid membranes has been examined by freeze‐fracture electron microscopy. A normal morphology of the membranes in which stacked grana can be observed is preserved up to 35°C. Incubation at 35–45°C causes complete destacking of the grana but no alteration in the distribution of the membrane‐associated particles between the exoplasmic and protoplasmic fracture faces. Heating above 45°C causes phase‐separation of non‐bilayer lipids into aggregates of cylindrical inverted micelles. Bleaching experiments show that destacking is associated with disruption of chlorophyll‐protein complexes of both photosystems I and II. The rate of electron transport through the photosystems is also perturbed. These results are discussed in terms of the role of non‐bilayer lipids in packaging the membrane proteins.
Isolated interferonα‐receptor complexes stabilized in vitro
Authors: Eid P. , Mogensen K.E.
Published: July 2002

We describe the extraction and stabilization in vitro of discrete complexes of interferon and cellular receptor proteins. A homogeneous complex of M
r 230000 was extracted at the time of peak receptor binding (30 min). Complex formation was specific for human interferon. At later times a second complex could also be extracted suggesting transfer of interferon to a second site.
Dual modulation of hepatic and intestinal acyl‐CoA: cholesterol acyltransferase activity by (de‐)phosphorylation and substrate supply in vitro
Authors: Suckling Keith E. , Strange Eduard F. , Dietschy John M.
Published: July 2002

Acyl‐CoA: cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) activity in microsomes from rat liver and rat intestinal epithelial cells was increased by incubation of the microsomes with the 100 000 × g supernatant fraction in the presence of ATP/MgCl2 and NaF. The measured activity was further increased by including cholesterol‐rich liposomes in the preincubation. The ACAT activity in rat liver microsomes could be inhibited by preincubation in the presence of 100 000 × g supernatant and MgCl2 and microsomes preactivated by ATP/MgCl2 could also be inhibited in this way. The results suggest that ACAT activity in vitro is modulated by substrate supply and also reversibly by an ATP‐dependent process which may be protein phosphorylation.
Translation and processing of normal (PiMM) and abnormal (PiZZ) human α1‐antitrypsin
Authors: Bathurst I.C. , Stenflo J. , Errington D.M. , Carrell R.W.
Published: July 2002

Human liver mRNA isolated from subjects phenotyped as homozygous PiMM or PiZZ α1‐antitrypsin, was translated in a reticulocyte cell‐free system, and α1‐antitrypsin identified by immunoprecipitation. In the presence of dog pancreas membranes the translated α1‐antitrypsin appeared as a larger product. Treatment with endo‐β‐N‐glucosaminidase yielded a protein smaller than the reticulocyte translated product, presumably due to removal of the N‐terminal signal sequence by membranes and sugar residues by endo‐β‐N‐glucosaminidase. Quantitation of α1‐antitrypsin translated from PiMM and PiZZ livers suggests that both mRNA species were present at the same cellular concentration, and that processing to the core glycosylation stage proceeded at identical rates.
Acylation in vivo of the contact site A glycoprotein and of other membrane proteins in Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Stadler Joachim , Bauer Gisela , Gerisch Günther
Published: July 2002

Cells of Dictyostelium discoideum were incubated during the preaggregation phase with [3H] palmitic acid, and association of the fatty acid label with proteins was investigated by SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and fluorography. Three proteins with apparent molecular masses of 44, 80 and 130kDa were preferentially labeled. The 80‐kDa protein proved to be identical with an integral membrane glycoprotein called contact site A. The protein retained the 3H label after chloroform‐methanol extraction and boiling in SDS‐containing buffer, but not after mild hydroxylamine treatment, indicating an ester bond. After treatment of the protein with KOH the 3H label was recovered in free palmitic acid, as demonstrated by gas‐liquid chromatography of the methyl ester.
Interpretation of fluorescence photobleaching recovery experiments on oriented cell membranes
Authors: Dale R.E.
Published: July 2002

Both quantitative and qualitative aspects of the interpretation of fluorescence photobleaching recovery experiments as typically practised to obtain information on lateral diffusion processes in cell membranes are called into question in view of the polarized nature of the laser light sources routinely employed. Protocols which will eliminate the effects elicited under these conditions by any concurrent slow rotational diffusion are delineated.
Stereoelectronic effects in RNase‐catalysed reactions of dinucleoside phosphate cleavage
Authors: Yakovlev Gennady I. , Bocharov Alexander L. , Moiseyev Gennady P. , Mikhaylov Sergey N.
Published: July 2002

The rate at which dinucleoside phosphates are cleaved by RNases is supposed to be determined by the mole fraction of enzyme‐substrate complexes in which the phosphodiester moiety of a dinucleoside phosphate has a highly reactive conformation. The mole fraction of such complexes for a particular RNase depends on the nature of a nucleoside at the O5'‐end of the phosphodiester bond. Experimental data are presented to support this hypothesis.
A plasmid vector that allows fusion of the Escherichia coli galactokinase gene to the translation startpoint of other genes
Authors: Kelsall Ann , Evans Christine , Busby Stephen
Published: July 2002

By genetic manipulation of cloned Escherichia coli galactose operon DNA, we have constructed a new plasmid in which the N terminal segment of the galK gene is replaced by the N terminal of the galE gene. This plasmid encodes a hybrid protein that confers a Gal K+ phenotype on host cells: differences in initiation at the galE translation start point cause different phenotypes. The plasmid has unique restriction sites at the junction of the galE and galK gene segments and thus can be used to replace the N terminal of galK with any other translation start.
Specific effects of ATP on the kinetics of reconstituted bovine heart cytochrome‐c oxidase
Authors: Hüther Fritz-Joachim , Kadenbach Bernhard
Published: July 2002

Bovine heart cytochrome‐c oxidase was reconstituted in liposomes and the kinetics of cytochrome c oxidation were measured by the polarographic and photometric method under uncoupled conditions in the presence of various polyvalent anions. In order to distinguish between specific and unspecific ionic effects of ATP, the photolabelling reagent 8‐azido‐ATP was applied. Covalently bound ATP at the enzyme complex caused the same increase of K
m for cytochrome c as free ATP, if measured by the photometric assay. The increase of K
m by photolabelling with 8‐azido‐ATP was completely prevented by ATP, but not by ADP. The data indicate the occurrence of a specific binding site for ATP at the cytosolic side of cytochrome‐c oxidase, which, after binding of ATP, changes the kinetics of cytochrome c oxidation.
The complete amino acid sequence of ribosomal protein H‐S11 from the archaebacterium Halobacterium marismortui
Authors: Arndt Evelyn , Breithaupt Gabriele , Kimura Makoto
Published: July 2002

The complete amino acid sequence of ribosomal protein H‐S11 from the extremely halophilic archaebacterium Halobacterium marismortui is presented. This has been achieved by the sequence analysis of peptides derived by enzymatic digestions with trypsin, pepsin and Staphylococcus aureus protease, as well as by chemical cleavage with cyanogen bromide and o‐iodosobenzoic acid. The protein consists of 155 amino acid residues and has a molecular mass of 17545 Da. Comparison of this sequence with other ribosomal proteins by the computer programmes RELATE and ALIGN showed that the C‐terminal two‐thirds of H‐S11 is homologous to the eubacterial ribosomal protein S15 and that the N‐terminal one‐third of H‐S11 is possibly related to the N‐terminal region of the eubacterial ribosomal protein S8. To explain this finding, possible genetic events during evolution, e.g. fusion or splitting of genes, are discussed.
Sequence analysis of Citrus limon DNA coding for 26 S rRNA
Authors: Kolosha V.O. , Kryukov V.M. , Fodor I.
Published: July 2002

rRNA
DNA sequence (Citrus limon) Heterogeneity
Promotor and enhancer like activity at the 5'‐end of normal and T24 Ha‐ras1 genes
Authors: Spandidos Demetrios A. , Riggio Marcello
Published: July 2002

We have used a short‐term transfection technique, in which we monitor the ability of DNA fragments to induce the expression of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene in rat 208F fibroblast cells. Using appropriate vectors we have assayed for promoter or enhancer activity of the 0.8 kb SstI fragment located within the 5'‐flanking sequences of the first coding exon of the human T24 and normal Ha‐ras1 genes. We find that this fragment contains promoter and enhancer activities in both the normal and the T24 Ha‐ras1 gene.
Primary structure of α‐bungarotoxin Six amino acid residues differ from the previously reported sequence
Authors: Ohta Mitsuhiro , Ohta Kiyoe , Nishitani Hiroshi , Hayashi Kyozo
Published: July 2002

α‐Bungarotoxin (α‐BuTx) was isolated from the venom of the Formosan banded krait (Bungarus multicinctus). The amino acid sequence was determined by a combination of conventional methods. In contrast to the sequence of α‐BuTx reported by Mebs et al. [(1971) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 44, 711–716], our results revealed the presence of ‐Pro‐, ‐ and ‐ at positions 9–11, 67–68 and 71–72 from the amino‐terminal, respectively, and not ‐Pro‐, ‐ and ‐ as reported previously.
Amino acid sequence surrounding the lipoic acid cofactor of bovine kidney 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex
Authors: Bradford Andrew P. , Aitken Alastair , Beg Fatima , Cook Kenneth G. , Yeaman Stephen J.
Published: July 2002

The 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex was succinylated using 2‐oxo[5‐14C]glutarate in the presence of N‐ethylmaleimide to label the lipoic acid cofactor of the transuccinylase (E2) component. Following peptic digestion, 14C‐lipoate‐containing peptides were purified and subjected to automated Edman degradation and amino acid analysis. The amino acid sequence surrounding the lipoyllysine residue is reported.
Spectroscopic studies of brunescent cataractous lenses
Authors: Tomoda Akio , Yoneyama Yoshimasa , Yamaguchi Teruhide , Kakinuma Katsuko , Kawasaki Kazuo , Yonemura Daizo
Published: July 2002

The absorption spectra of brunescent cataractous lenses and their homogenates were analyzed under various conditions by using a double wavelength spectrophotometer. The absorption spectra of the samples were in good agreement with those of synthetic xanthommatin derived from 3‐hydroxykynurenine. The results provided evidence that brown pigment in the brunescent cataractous lenses is mainly composed of xanthommatin.
Thesaurin a, the major protein of Xenopus laevis previtellogenic oocytes, present in the 42 S particles, is homologous to elongation factor EF‐1α
Authors: Viel Alain , Djé Marcellin K. , Mazabraud André , Denis Herman , le Maire Marc
Published: July 2002

We have purified in SDS X. laevis thesaurin a (M
r 50 000) which is part of the 42 S storage particles. Its N‐terminal amino acid is blocked and several peptides obtained by V8 protease treatment were purified and sequenced. As expected from one of the functional roles of the 42 S particles (tRNA binding, protection against deacylation and exchange with the ribosome), the amino acid sequence of thesaurin a was found to be closely related to that of the elongation factor EF‐1α. We suggest that all three proteins involved in 5 S RNA and tRNA storage in previtellogenic oocytes, TFIIIA, thesaurin a and thesaurin b, have a dual function: storage and a role in transcription or in protein synthesis.
Purification and some characteristics of a β‐galactoside binding soluble lectin from amphibian ovary
Authors: Fink de Cabutti Nilda E. , Caron Michel , Joubert Raymonde , Teresa Elola Maria , Bladier Dominique , Herkovitz Jorge
Published: July 2002

Soluble extracts of Bufo ovaries agglutinate sialidase‐treated rabbit erythrocytes. Unlike other amphibian lectins this agglutination activity does not require the presence of calcium ions. It is specifically inhibited by D‐galactose and its derivatives. Thiodi‐D‐galactoside is the most potent saccharide inhibitor followed by lactose and methyl‐β‐D‐galactoside, respectively. D‐Fucose, D‐glucose and D‐mannose do not inhibit the activity at concentrations at or above 100 mM. The lectin has been purified 500‐fold to apparent homogeneity from the ovaries by salt extraction and affinity chromatography on lactose‐aminophenyl‐agarose, with a yield of about 0.2%. The molecular mass determined by gel filtration under native conditions was 30 kDa; polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in SDS gave a molecular mass of 15 kDa, suggesting that the lectin is a dimer. The lectin has an isoelectric point of 40 and contains a high proportion of acidic amino acids.
Nucleotide sequence of a rice glutelin gene
Authors: Takaiwa Fumio , Ebinuma Hiroyasu , Kikuchi Shoshi , Oono Kiyoharu
Published: July 2002

A gene encoding the major rice storage protein, glutelin, was isolated and its nucleotide sequence was determined. The cloned gene (λINE 3) contains three short introns and codes for a prepro‐glutelin protein of 499 amino acids (M
r 56 305) identical with that deduced from the type II glutelin cDNA. In the 5′‐flanking region, a sequence similar to the legumin box characteristic to leguminous 11 S globulin genes can be detected around 60 bp upstream from the transcription start site.
Hormonal regulation of 6‐phosphofructo‐2‐kinase/fructose‐2,6‐bisphosphatase: Kinetic models
Authors: Goldstein B.N. , Ivanova A.N.
Published: July 2002

A graphical method to reveal the so‐called ‘critical fragments’ in schemes of biochemical systems is considered. These fragments produce multiple steady states or self‐oscillations in systems. As an example, the bifunctional enzyme, 6‐phosphofructo‐2‐kinase/fructose‐2,6‐bisphosphatase, regulated by glucagon through enzyme phosphorylation, is discussed. It is shown that this enzyme may act as a metabolic switching mechanism in discontinuous or oscillatory regimes, depending on the specific structure of its kinetic scheme. The boundaries of concentrational and parameter domains for these critical phenomena are also predicted.