bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Method Development and Validation of LC and Densitometric-TLC for Simultaneous Determination of Pitavastatin Calcium and Ezetimibe in a Binary Mixture
Authors: Panchal Hiral J , Suhagia Bhanubhai N
Published: February 2014

Two simple and accurate methods to determine pitavastatin calcium (PIT) and ezetimibe (EZE), ina binary mixture, were developed and validated using LC and densitometric-TLC. The LC separation was achieved on a Phenomenex Luna C18 column (250 × 4.6 mm id, 5 μm), in the isocratic mode using 0.1% orthophosphoric acid–acetonitrile–triethylamine (19.8 + 80 + 0.2, v/v/v), pH 3.00 ± 0.05, at a flow rate of 1.4 mL/min. The retention times were about 6.98 and 2.36 min for PIT and EZE, respectively. Quantification was achieved with a photodiode array detector at 235 nm over the concentration range of 0.5–5 μg/mL for each drug, with meanrecoveries of 99.35 ± 0.19% and 99.51 ± 0.23% for PIT and EZE, respectively. The TLCseparation was achieved on silica gel 60 F254 HPTLC plates using toluene–ethyl acetate–glacial acetic acid (59.8 + 40.0 + 0.2, v/v/v), as the mobile phase. The Rf values were about 0.38 and 0.58 for PIT and EZE, respectively. Quantification was achieved withUV detection at 235 nm over the concentration range of 50–600 ng/spot for each drug, with mean recoveries of 99.49 ± 0.15% and 99.58 ± 0.10% for PIT and EZE, respectively. Both methods were validated, and based on statistical results were found to be specific, accurate, precise, and robust. The methods were successfully applied for the determination of PIT and EZE in abinary mixture without any interferences from common excipients.
Determination of Ammonia by Designing an Optode Based on Immobilization of a Co(III)-Schiff Base Complex on a Triacetylcelluose Membrane
Authors: Tavallali Hossein , Torabi Susan , Asadi Mozaffar , Mohammadi Hajar
Published: February 2014

A novel ammonia optode was designed using [4-methyl-N,N′-bis(salicylidene)-1,2-phenylenediamine] tributylphosphincobalt(III) perchlorate monohydrate [Co(4-MeSaloph)(PBu)3]+ complex coated on a triacetylcellulose membrane. The sensor could be used at a wavelength of 378 nm to detect ammonia in the range of 8.3 × 10–4 and –1.25 × 10–2 M in borate buffer(pH 10). The LOD was found to be 9.5 × 10–5 M. The response time of the optode was 2–3 min and depended on the concentration of ammonia. This optode was successfully applied for the determination of ammonia in drinking water.
Enrichment of Copper as 1-(2-Pyridylazo)-2-Naphthol Complex by the Combination of Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction/Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
Authors: Kandhro Ghulam A , Soylak Mustafa , Kazi Tasneem Gul , Yilmaz Erkan
Published: February 2014

A rapid, simple, selective, economical, and sensitive dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction methodology has been established for the preconcentration of copper (Cu) at trace levels. The Cu(II) was complexed with 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol; ethanol and carbon tetrachloride were used as disperser and extraction solvents, respectively. To obtain quantitative recovery of Cu(II), the effects of parameters influencing its extraction efficiency and subsequent determinations, i.e., pH, amount of complexing reagent, extraction time, and type and volume of disperser and extraction solvents, were examined. LOD and LOQ were 0.06 and 0.20 μg/L, respectively. The enrichment factor of the proposed method was 60, and the RSD <5%. TMDA 51.3 and TMDA 70 fortified water certified reference materials were analyzed for validation of the procedure. The developed microextraction procedure has been used for the preconcentration of Cu(II) in water samples with acceptable results.
C18 Bonded Silica Membrane Disk Modified with Cyanex 302 for Cr(III) and Cr(VI) Speciation and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometric Determination
Authors: Karve Manjusha , Pandey Durgesh , Athavale Rohini
Published: February 2014

A new SPE method for speciation of Cr(III) andCr(VI) has been developed using a Cyanex 302-impregnated C18 bonded silica membrane disk followed by flame atomic absorption spectrometric determination. The influence of various parameters, such as pH, flow rate, volume of sample solution, amount of Cyanex 302, and eluent type, concentration,and flow rate, on Cr(III) retention, were systematically studied. Cr(III) was quantitatively recovered from the modified sorbent at pH 4.5, while the recovery of Cr(VI) was negligible (0.5 ± 0.5 μg) throughout the pH range studied for its sorption, thus facilitating their separation and speciation. Most of the elements associated with Cr(III) did not show strong interference during its sorption. The sorption capacity of modified disk for Cr(III) was 117.6 ± 0.8 μg, and its enrichment factor for Cr(III) was 37. The LOD and LOQ of the method for Cr(III) were 0.88 and 2.93 μg/L, respectively. The efficiency of the disk for Cr(III) recovery remained unchanged up to 24 cycles. A certified reference material (BCR-701) was analyzed to validate theaccuracy of method developed for Cr(III). The method was applied to the determination of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) species in tap water and an industrialeffluent sample, with RSD ≤1.0%.
Determination of Fungicides in Fruit Juice by Ultrasound-Assisted Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction Based on Solidification of Floating Organic Solvent Droplets Followed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Fan Run-Zhen , Liu Congyun , Jiang Wenqing , Wang Xiaonan , Liu Fengmao
Published: February 2014

Ultrasound-assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (UA-DLLME) based on solidification of the floating organic solvent droplets (SFO) combined with HPLC was used for determination of five fungicides in fruit juice samples. 1-Dodecanol, which has a low density and low toxicity, was used as the extraction solvent in UA-DLLME. The solidification of floating organic dropletsfacilitates the transfer of analytes from the aqueous phase to the organic phase. This method was easy, quick, inexpensive, precise, and linear over a wide range. Under the optimized conditions, the enrichment factors for a 5 mL fruit juice sample were 25 to 56, and the LODs for the five fungicides ranged from 5 to 50 μg/L. The average recoveries ranged from 71.8 to 118.2% with RSDsof 0.9 to 13.9%. Application of the DLLME-SFO technique allows successful separation and preconcentration of the fungicides at a low concentration level in fruit juice samples.
Development and Method Validation for the Determination of Nitroimidazole Residues in Salmon, Tilapia and Shrimp Muscle
Authors: Watson Lynn , Potter Ross , MacNeil James D , Murphy Cory
Published: February 2014

The use of nitroimidazoles in aquacultured fish has been banned in many countries due to the suspected mutagenic and carcinogenic effects of these compounds. In response to the need to conduct residue testing of these compounds in fish, a simple, rapid, and sensitive method was developed and validated that is suitable for regulatory monitoring of nitroimidazole residues and their hydroxy metabolites in fish muscle tissue. Following solvent extraction of homogenized tissue and clean-up using a C18 SPE cartridge, analyses were conducted by ultra-performance UPLC-MS/MS. A precursor ion and two product ions were monitored for each of the parent compounds and metabolites included in the method. The validated method has an analytical range from 1 to 50 ng/g in the representative species (tilapia, salmon, and shrimp), with an LOD and LOQ ranging from 0.07 to 1.0 ng/g and 0.21 to 3.0 ng/g, respectively, depending on the analyte. Recoveries ranged from 81 to 124% and repeatability was between 4 and 17%. HorRat values were within typical limits of acceptability for a single laboratory. Working standards were stable for 12 months, extracts were stable for 5 days, andtissues for 2 months under appropriate storage conditions. This method was determined to be suitable for routine use for screening, quantification,and confirmation of nitroimidazole residues in a residue monitoring program for fish with regulatory oversight.
Simultaneous Determination of Matrine and Berberine in Fruits, Vegetables, and Soil Using Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Liu Xingang , Tian Yingying , Dong Fengshou , Xu Jun , Li Yuanbo , Liang Xuyang , Wang Yunhao , Zheng Yongquan
Published: February 2014

An ultra-performance LC/tandem MS (UPLC/MS/MS) method for the simultaneous quantification and identification of matrine and berberine, alkaloidswidely used in plant fungicides, has been developed and validated. Methanol or 1% ammonia–acetonitrile were selected as extraction solvents,and primary secondary amine sorbent was chosen for cleanup to achieve satisfactory recoveries in accordance with European Union guidelines. The chromatographic separation was carried out on a hydrophilic interaction LC column with a UPLC/MS/MS-based method to improve the retentions and shapes of the peaks. Method validation was performed forlinearity, repeatability, interday precision, andsensitivity. Recoveries and RSDs were acceptable (73.1–109.3% recovery, RSD ≤ 15.8%). The LODs varied from 0.34 to 1.07 μg/kg for matrine and 0.09 to 0.18 μg/kg for berberine, while the LOQs ranged from 1.12 to 3.58 μg/kg for matrine and 0.31 to 0.60 μg/kg for berberine. This method was successfully and efficiently applied for the analysis of matrine and berberine in real samples.
Generalized Net Analyte Signal Standard Addition as a Novel Method for Simultaneous Determination: Application in Spectrophotometric Determination of Some Pesticides
Authors: Asadpour-Zeynali Karim , Saeb Elhameh , Vallipour Javad , Bamorowat Mehdi
Published: February 2014

Simultaneous spectrophotometric determination of three neonicotinoid insecticides (acetamiprid,imidacloprid, and thiamethoxam) by a novel methodnamed generalized net analyte signal standard addition method (GNASSAM) in some binary and ternarysynthetic mixtures was investigated. For this purpose, standard addition was performed using a single standard solution consisting of a mixture ofstandards of all analytes. Savings in time and amount of used materials are some of the advantages of this method. All determinations showed appropriate applicability of this method with less than 5% error. This method may be applied for linearlydependent data in the presence of known interferents. The GNASSAM combines the advantages of both the generalized standard addition method and net analyte signal; therefore, it may be a properalternative for some other multivariate methods.
Development and Application of a Microwave-Assisted Extraction and LC/MS/MS Methodology to the Determination of Antifouling Booster Biocides in Sea Mullets (Mugil cephalus) Organisms
Authors: Franco-Barrios Alejandro , Torres-Padrón María Esther , Sosa-Ferrera Zoraida , Santana-Rodríguez José Juan
Published: February 2014

A method is presented for the extraction, preconcentration, and determination of two commonly used booster biocides, Irgarol 1051 and diuron, insamples of muscle and liver tissues from Mugil cephalus by microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) followed by SPE for the preconcentration and cleanup step, coupled with LC/MS/MS. The optimum conditions for MAE were established as power 200 W and irradiation time 4 min. Using these conditions, the LOD was 0.13 ng/g for diuron and 0.10 ng/g for Irgarol 1051. The recoveries calculated at three concentration levels (0.5, 5, and 50 ng/g) were greater than 74%. Repeatability was less than 7.5% and reproducibility less than 12.7%. The optimized method was used to monitor these compounds in M. cephalus from different harbors of Gran Canaria Island. The samples were collected bimonthly and processed following the optimized method. High levels of Irgarol 1051 (6.9 ± 1.03 ng/g) were found in the liver, while diuron was undetected. However, diuron was found in the muscle (1.41 ± 0.45 ng/g). The proposed sentinel organism could be used in tropical and subtropical regions to continuously biomonitor for booster biocides over long periods of time. This technique could be a useful tool for improving the management of ocean and coastal waters.
Stability of Chlorophenols and Their Acetylated Derivatives in Water: Sample Storage Procedures
Authors: de Morais Paulo , Stoichev Teodor , Basto M Clara P , Carvalho Pedro N , Vasconcelos M Teresa S D
Published: February 2014

The determination of chlorophenols (CPs) in water samples is a subject of increasing interest. Reduction of sample storage space and the stability of CPs when present at very low levels are still problems that deserve research. The stability of CPs at ng/L levels at different temperatures and in the presence or absence of sodium carbonateand acetic anhydride was studied for up to 39 days. Stable and reproducible CP concentrations for about a month of storage in both river and wastewater were achieved in two storage conditions as follows: at –18°C with addition of 10% sodium chloride; and at 4°C with addition of both 10% sodium chloride and 10 mg/mL sodium carbonate. These sample treatments are good alternatives to the immobilization of CPs on SPE cartridges in terms of both analyte stability and saving of storage space.
Analysis of Cocoa Flavanols and Procyanidins (DP 1–10) in Cocoa-Containing Ingredients and Products by Rapid Resolution Liquid Chromatography: Single-Laboratory Validation
Authors: Machonis Philip R , Jones Matthew A , Kwik-Uribe Catherine
Published: February 2014

Recently, a multilaboratory validation (MLV) of AOAC Official Method 2012.24 for the determination of cocoa flavanols and procyanidins (CF-CP) in cocoa-based ingredients and products determinedthat the method was robust, reliable, and transferrable. Due to the complexity of the CF-CP molecules, this method required a run time exceeding 1 h to achieve acceptable separations. To address this issue, a rapid resolution normal phase LC method was developed, and a single-laboratory validation (SLV) study conducted. Flavanols and procyanidins with a degree of polymerization (DP) up to 10 were eluted in 15 min using a binary gradient applied to a diol stationary phase, detected using fluorescence detection, and reported as a totalsum of DP 1–10. Quantification was achieved using (-)-epicatechin-based relative response factors for DP 2–10. Spike recovery samplesand seven different types of cocoa-based samples were analyzed to evaluate the accuracy, precision, LOD, LOQ, and linearity of the method. The within-day precision of the reported content for the samples was 1.15–5.08%, and overall precision was 3.97–13.61%. Spike-recovery experiments demonstrated recoveries of over 98%. The results of this SLV were compared to those previously obtained in the MLV and found to be consistent. The translation to rapid resolution LC allowed for an 80% reduction in analysis time and solventusage, while retaining the accuracy and reliability of the original method. The savings in both cost and time of this rapid method make it well-suited for routine laboratory use.
Determination of Corticosteroids, Anabolic Steroids, and Basic Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Milk and Animal Tissues
Authors: Kaufmann Anton , Butcher Patrick , Maden Kathryn , Walker Stephan , Widmer Mirjam
Published: February 2014

A quantitative LC/MS/MS method was developed for the determination of 14 steroidal compounds and three basic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (detected as metabolites) in bovine milk and animal muscle tissue. The proposed method is sufficiently sensitive and highly selective for residueapplications. The described approach offers the possibility to detect, quantify, and confirm anti-inflammatory drugs belonging to two widely diverging chemical categories. The employed single-stage SPE step (mixed mode cation exchange) retains both steroids and basic metabolites of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The method is capableof handling widely diverging relevant concentration ranges (0.1 μg/kg for dexamethasone and100 μg/kg for metamizol metabolites) for the individual compounds with a single extraction,cleanup, and LC/MS/MS procedure. It provides good analyte precision and accuracy data.
Semiquantitative Determination of Mesophilic, Aerobic Microorganisms in Cocoa Products Using the Soleris® NF-TVC Method
Authors: Montei Carolyn , McDougal Susan , Mozola Mark , Rice Jennifer
Published: February 2014

The Soleris Non-fermenting Total Viable Count method was previously validated for a wide variety of food products, including cocoa powder. A matrix extension study was conducted to validate themethod for use with cocoa butter and cocoa liquor. Test samples included naturally contaminated cocoa liquor and cocoa butter inoculated with natural microbial flora derived from cocoa liquor. A probability of detection statistical model was used to compare Soleris results at multiple test thresholds (dilutions) with aerobic plate counts determined using the AOAC Official Method966.23 dilution plating method. Results of the two methods were not statistically different at any dilution level in any of thethree trials conducted. The Soleris method offersthe advantage of results within 24 h, compared tothe 48 h required by standard dilution plating methods.
Evaluation of the Thermo Scientific™ SureTect™ Listeria monocytogenes Assay
Authors: Cloke Jonathan , Leon-Velarde Carlos , Larson Nathan , Dave Keron , Evans Katharine , Crabtree David , Hughes Annette , Hopper Craig , Simpson Helen , Withey Sophie , Oleksiuk Milena , Holopainen Jani , Wickstrand Nina , Kauppinen Mikko
Published: February 2014

The Thermo Scientific™ SureTect™Listeria monocytogenes Assay is a new real-time PCR assay for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in food and environmental samples. This assay was validated using the AOAC Research Institute (AOAC-RI) Performance Tested MethodsSM program in comparison to the reference method detailed in International Organization for Standardization 11290-1:1996, including Amendment 1:2004 with the following foods and food contact surfaces: smoked salmon, processed cheese, fresh bagged spinach, fresh cantaloupe, cooked prawns (chilled product), cooked sliced turkey meat (chilled product), ice cream, pork frankfurters, salami, ground raw beef meat (12% fat), plastic, and stainless steel. All matrixes were tested by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Microbiology Division, Basingstoke, UK. In addition, three matrixes (pork frankfurters, bagged lettuce, and stainless steel) were analyzed independently as part of the AOAC-RI controlled laboratorystudy by the University of Guelph, Canada. Using probability of detection (POD) statistical analysis, a significant difference was demonstrated between the candidate and reference methods for salami, cooked sliced turkey and ice cream in favor of the SureTect assay. For all other matrixes, no significant difference by POD was seen between the two methods during the study. Inclusivity and exclusivity testing was also conducted with 53 and30 isolates, respectively, which demonstrated that the SureTect assay was able to detect all serotypes of L. monocytogenes. None of the exclusivity isolates analyzed were detectedby the SureTect assay. Ruggedness testing was conducted to evaluate the performance of the assay with specific method deviations outside the recommended parameters open to variation, i.e., enrichment time and temperature and lysis temperature, which demonstrated that the assay gave reliable performance. Accelerated stability testing was alsoconducted, validating the assay shelf life.
Recent Applications of First- and Second-Order Multivariate Calibration to Analytical Chemistry
Authors: Arancibia Juan A , Damiani Patricia C , Ibañez Gabriela A , Olivieri Alejandro C
Published: February 2014

This report reviews recent literature on the application of multivariate calibration techniques to both first- and second-order data, aimed at the analytical determination of analytes of interest or sampleproperties in a variety of industrial, pharmaceutical, food, and environmental samples, including examples of process control. The most used data processingtools are briefly described, with emphasis on the advantages that can be obtained by applying specific combinations of multivariate data and algorithms. Themain focus is on works devoted to first-order data(i.e., spectra, chromatograms, etc.) combined with partial least-squares regression, which has become the standard for this type of analytical research. A brief discussion on recent work on second-order data and algorithms is also included, as this field is rapidly growing, although at present it does not show, the general applicability of the first-order counterparts.
ENGLISH WITH THE “MARRIED” NAME: THE CASE OF LINGUISTIC HYBRIDITY IN ELF COUPLE TALK
Authors: Kloetzl Svitlana
Published: February 2014

This paper aims at extending the analysis of ELF discourse to the domain of intimate interactions and to explore how partners with different linguacultural backgrounds accomplish their “coupleness” through English as a lingua franca with a focus on the hybrid features of couples’ ELF. For this purpose fi ve European couples with different fi rst languages were asked to audio-record their ELF home interactions and comment on selected excerpts of their recordings so as to gain some insights about how these interactions were perceived from a participant viewpoint. The investigation of the data suggests that ELF partners use hybrid forms to activate and ratify particular contexts (schematic constructs), and to achieve a particular pretext (an interactive purpose) of domestic intimacy and togetherness.
Deposit Money Banks and Economic Growth in Nigeria
Authors: Ogege Samson , Boloupremo Tarila
Published: February 2014

This paper examines the effect of deposit money banks intermediation role on economic growth and development in Nigeria. The main objective of the research was to ascertain the extent to which sectorial credit allocation by deposit money banks have influenced growth in the economy. Time series data covering the period 1973-2011 for deposits money banks credits in Nigeria and per capita gross domestic product were analyzed within the framework of Engle-Granger Representation Theorem; the approach estimated a co-integrating regression using the ordinary least square estimator, and then investigated the presence of a co-integration relation by examining the stationarity of the estimated residual series. The findings indicate that credit allocation to the production sector is significantly promoting economic activity. The implication that can be drawn from this study is that to ensure that the banking system performs its role of credit allocation effectively it must channel funds into productive investment and more productive uses; deposit money banks should act as efficient financial intermediaries devoted to allocating resources to the most productive uses.
The Choice of Portfolio Based on the Theory of Cooperative Games and the Zeuthen’s and Harsany’s Method
Authors: Sroczyńska-Baron Anna
Published: February 2014

The theory of games as a domain of mathematics is one of the methods proper for making decisions in the world of economics when we do not know how the other subjects are going to act. It seems to be a suitable tool for gambling on the stock exchange. During gambling on the stock exchange, the problem of the choice of proper portfolio appears; the player wants both great profit and low risk. It is reasonable to limit the choice only to portfolios which belong to the effective set. Then the decision of choice of a particular portfolio is individual and depends on the player and his aversion to the risk. In this article this problem is presented as the game that is, the inner conflict of the player. On the one hand he is expecting a great profit, yet on the other hand he is expecting a low risk. Which portfolio should be pointed out to give the satisfaction to the player? The solution of this problem presented in this work is based on the theory of games, which treats the search for a proper portfolio as a two-person game. A suitable game was formulated and described. The analysis of the game as a cooperative one was performed. There is also an example provided explaining the way of acting with data coming from the stock exchange in Warsaw.
Impact of the Bologna process two-cycle implementation on teacher education in the Czech Republic
Authors: Bendl S. , Voňková H. , Zvírotský M.
Published: February 2014

V důsledku implementace Boloňského procesu byla v České republice rozdělena pětiletá magisterská studia učitelství na tříleté bakalářské a dvouleté navazující magisterské studium. Cílem tohoto článku je popsat vývoj strukturace studia učitelství v České republice a uvést výsledky výzkumného šetření názorů akademických pracovníků a studentů Pedagogické fakulty Univerzity Karlovy v Praze na tuto strukturaci. V první a druhé části jsou shrnuty cíle Boloňského procesu a ohlasy na strukturaci studií v obecné rovině. Ve třetí části je analyzována strukturace studií od jejího zavedení do právního řádu České republiky až po současnou úspěšnou akreditaci neděleného studia na jedné z pedagogických fakult a postupnou tendenci k opětovnému zavádění nedělených studií učitelství. Ve čtvrté části příspěvku jsou uvedeny výsledky výzkumného šetření. Ukázalo se, že přibližně devět z deseti akademických pracovníků v roce 2006 nesouhlasilo se zavedením strukturovaného studia na fakultě a že v průběhu času nedošlo k významné změně jejich názorů. Navíc více než šedesát procent akademických pracovníků nesouhlasí s paralelní existencí obou typů studií. Oproti akademickým pracovníkům preferují studenti strukturovaná studia (7:3). Většina studentů bakalářského studia hodlá pokračovat v navazujícím magisterském studiu, což poukazuje na to, že dělení do dvou cyklů je více méně formální záležitostí.
A student teacher on the pathway to teaching profession: Reviewing research and proposing a model
Authors: Svatoš T.
Published: February 2014

Výzkumy věnované učiteli, jeho profesnímu vývoji v edukačních i sociálních souvislostech mají dlouho tradici a jsou v nejen v českém výzkumném prostředí neustále obohacovány novými badatelskými podněty. Intenzitou, ale také četností se výzkumný zájem soustředí především do dvou profesních stádií: směrem k poznání začínajícího učitele a popisu učitele-experta. Je ke škodě pedeutologické teorie i praxe, že bádání jen v některých případech směřují k pregraduální přípravě a poznávání proměn studenta v budoucího učitele. Předkládaná stať poukazuje na dvě okolnosti: první – potvrzující zmiňovanou skutečnost o menším zájmu českých badatelů o výzkumy „uvnitř“ učitelského vzdělávání, a druhou – že je možné popsat vývojové profesionalizační etapy v pregraduální přípravě a také je výzkumně ověřovat. Zvláště významné je to v období tzv. ranné profesionalizace, kdy dochází k podstatným změnám v postojích začínajících studentů učitelství k sobě samému, učitelskému vzdělávání i pojetí edukační praxe (dochází k redefinování studentské role). Zvýšení badatelského zájmu tímto směrem má dva významné efekty: především vede k poznávání „člověka v roli studenta učitelství“ a současně dává instituci učitelského vzdělávání příležitost k autentickým a individuálně zaměřeným intervencím.
School case studies: Stories of self-evaluation
Authors: Poláchová J. Vašťatková
Published: February 2014

Příspěvek je věnován autoevaluaci jako strategii ovlivňující kvalitu vzdělávání a podporující rozvoj škol zevnitř. Představuje metodologii vzniku 30 případových studií českých škol, které zachycují průběh i souvislosti autoevaluace. Analýza výstupů studií psaných ve formě příběhů škol pak umožňuje stanovit závěry o charakteru autoevaluačních procesů z hlediska zavádění změny. Ukazuje, že se autoevaluace pozvolna a postupně dostává do života českých škol. V centru zájmu je i posouzení přínosu zvoleného výzkumného designu pro metodologii vícepřípadových studií.
The language of communication in English classrooms in the Czech Republic: Mixing languages
Authors: Najvar P. , Janík T. , Šebestová S.
Published: February 2014

Studie se zabývá komunikací ve školní třídě. Konkrétně je zaměřena na používání angličtiny jako cílového jazyka a češtiny jako mateřského jazyka ve výuce angličtiny na základních školách v České republice. Představuje výsledky analýzy 89 vyučovacích hodin anglického jazyka zaměřené na proporci mezi používáním angličtiny a češtiny učiteli a žáky a také na specifické situace, ve kterých jsou oba jazyky míšeny. Analýzy ukázaly, že učitelé ve vyučování vyřkli více českých slov než anglických, zatímco žáci naopak vyřkli více anglických slov než českých. Analýzy využívající časové kódování ukázaly, že angličtina a čeština se ve výuce objevují vyváženě. Alternativní perspektivou na vztah cílového a mateřského jazyka je pohled skrze příležitosti k procvičování jednotlivých jazykových dovedností, jež učitelé ve výuce vytvářejí. V souladu s jinými realizovanými výzkumy byly mezi jednotlivými zkoumanými učiteli pozorovány podstatné rozdíly v tom, do jaké míry využívají ve výuce mateřský jazyk žáků. V závěru studie je představeno pět typických situací, ve kterých ve výuce dochází k míšení jazyků.
Handbook of Jewish Literature from Late Antiquity, 135–700 CE
Authors: Ben-Eliyahu Eyal , Cohn Yehudah , Millar Fergus
Published: February 2014

From major seminal works such as the Mishnah or the Palestinian and Babylonian Talmuds, to Biblical commentaries, translations of Biblical books into Aramaic or relatively little-known mystical, liturgical, or apocalyptic writings, this book is a complete guide to the rich tradition of Jewish literature in the second to seventh centuries of the Common Era. Each work is described in a way that covers its contents, dating, language, and accessibility (or otherwise) in print or online. The aim throughout is to cover all of this literature and to answer the following questions: What Jewish literature, written either in Hebrew or Aramaic, has survived? What different genres of such literature are there? What printed texts or translations into any modern language, or commentaries (either in Hebrew or a European language) are there? And, for those who want to enquire further, what are the manuscripts on which modern editions are based?
Before HIV
Authors: Doyle Shane
Published: February 2014

This book addresses two of the most important questions in modern African history: the causes of rapid population growth, and the origins of the AIDS pandemic. It examines three societies on the Uganda–Tanzania border whose distinctive histories shed new light on both of these phenomena. This was the region where HIV in Africa first became a mass rural epidemic, and also where HIV infection rates first began to decline significantly. The book argues that only by analysing the long history of changes in sexual behaviour and attitudes can the shape of Africa's regional epidemics be fully understood. It traces the emergence of the sexual culture which permitted HIV to spread so quickly during the late 1970s and 1980s back to the middle decades of the twentieth century, a period when new patterns of socialization and sexual networking became established. The case studies examined in this book also provide new insights into the relationship between economic and social development and trends in fertility and mortality during the twentieth century. These three societies experienced the onset of rapid demographic growth at different moments and for different reasons, but in each case study area the key mechanisms appear to have been a decline in child mortality, a shortening of birth intervals, and a marked decline in primary and secondary infertility.
Inhibitory Effects of Brazilian Propolis on Lipid Accumulation in 3T3-L1 Cells
Authors: Yasuhito Nobushi  , Naoki Oikawa  , Yuzo Okazaki  , Shigetoshi Tsutsumi  , Yong Kun Park  , Masahiko Kurokawa  , Ken Yasukawa
Published: February 2014

We here investigated the inhibitory effect of Brazilian propolis on intracellular lipid accumulation. Seven ethanolic extracts of Brazilian propolis were tested for their inhibitory effect on intracellular lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells. Among the seven Brazilian propolis, the extracts AF-08 and AF-18 had inhibitory effects on intracellular lipid accumulation. In particular, the Brazilian propolis AF-08 exhibited a potential inhibitory effect on intracellular lipid accumulation.Thus, these results suggest that the Brazilian propolis AF-08 contributes to the prevention of metabolic syndrome. In addition, five known triterpenoids were isolated from the Brazilian propolis AF-08: betulonic acid, moronic acid, 3-oxo oleanolic acid, masticadienonic acid, and anwnweizonic acid. Four of the triterpenoids exhibited an inhibitory effect on intracellular lipid accumulation. Thus, these triterpenoids may be important as antiobesity agents that inhibit the metabolic syndrome.
Evaluation of Antitumor and Antioxidant Potential of a Polyherbal Extract on Ehrlich’s Ascites Carcinoma Xenografted Mice
Authors: Mukesh Kumar Das  , K.Mukkanti  , G. Srinivasa Rao  , Prafulla Kumar Sahu  , L. Silpavathi
Published: February 2014

Objective: Indigenous herbs alone or in combination are widely used in Indian system of medicine to treat innumerable ailments since time immemorial. Many strategies has been adopted to enhance anticarcinogenic responses and to establish therapeutic benefits. Poly herbal extracts (PHE), one of the emerging trends of modern medicine, where the assorted active principles work vibrantly to produce a maximum therapeutic activity with minimal toxicity by virtue of its additive, potentative, synergistic, agonistic or antagonistic effects. Though, Withania somnifera, Oroxylum indicum and Calotropis gigentia are independently established as potent antineoplastic agents, their antitumor and antioxidant perspective in combination is yet to be studied. The proposed study ascertains the assorted antineoplastic and antioxidant potential of the said potent herbs in PHE.Method: The antitumor potency of the PHE at a dose of 400 mg/kg body weight was screened on Ehrlich’s ascites carcinoma (EAC) xenografted swiss albino mice. The in-vivo anti-oxidant activity was investigated on the basis of hepatic anti-oxidant enzymes’ levels.Result: The PHE at the aforementioned dose showed a restoring effect on altered hematological parameters (***P< 0.05 considered to be significant), down turn in ascitic tumor volume and increase in mean survival time. A significant improvement in biochemical parameters (Enzymic antioxidants) was too observed.Conclusion:The study epitomizes the PHE (400 mg/kg body weight) as a potent anti tumor and anti-oxidant preparation with synergistic effects on EAC bearing mice.
Evaluation of Supplementation of Bittergourd Fermented Beverage to Diabetic Subjects
Authors: C.S. Devaki  , K.S. Premavalli
Published: February 2014

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic endocrine diseased condition reflected by higher level of blood glucose which is due to less insulin production, insulin action or both. Bittergourd juice consumption is being traditionally practiced for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in developing country such as India, but not supported through clinical data and highly bitter juice is difficult to drink. Therefore bittergourd fermented beverage with improved nutritional strength and taste was developed and supplemented to diabetic subjects and the evaluation was carried out. The evaluation of the bittergourd fermented beverage, in the first stage was carried out by supplementing the beverage to 30 diabetic subjects as an early morning drink in fasting conditionand the control group was asked to drink water. The fasting and post prandial blood sugar levels were studied and diabetic symptoms were noted. The impact of supplementation of bittergourd fermented beverage on diabetic subjects showed that subjects had significant improvement in reducing the symptoms of diabetes, as well reduced the fasting and post prandial glucose levels by 31% and 25% respectively when compared with the control group. Further 16 diabetic subjects who expressed their consent were given the bittergourd fermented beverage for a period of 5 months and the results of the long duration supplementaion indicated that there was a reduction of fasting blood glucose by 43% and post prandial blood glucose by 41% reflecting advantage of continued consumption of the beverage. In order to understand the direct action of the beverage on blood lipid profile–serum cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol as measured before and after supplementation showed the changes by 4-7% which is not considerable. However the glycoslated haemoglobin indicated encouraging results after the supplementation showing good control from fair control. Therefore, the study clearly reflected the positive effect of bittergourd fermented beverage in reducing and controlling blood sugar levels.
Synthesis of Amphiphilic Blockcopolymer Using Mechanically Produced Macromonomers Possessing Anhydrate as a Terminal Group and Its Application to Polymeric Micelles
Authors: Shin-ichi Kondo  , Machi Omoto  , Yuka Sawama  , Yasushi Sasai  , Kenjiro Tatematsu  , Yukinori Yamauchi  , Masayuki Kuzuya
Published: February 2014

We have synthesized macromonomers by mechanochemical reaction of poly(benzyl methacrylate) (PBzMA) and maleic anhydride (MA). The ESR spectrum of the fractured sample of PBzMA and MA showed a broad singlet, which was apparently different from the spectrum of PBzMA mechanoradical. The amphiphilic blockcopolymer was synthesized with macromonomer of PBzMA and amino-terminated polyethyleneglycol (a-methyl-w-aminopropoxy polyoxyethylene, MEPA). The number average molecular weight of the produced amphiphilic blockcopolymer was 33,000. Polymeric micelles were readily prepared from the present amphiphilic blockcopolymer by a dialysis method. The mean diameter of the micelles measured by dynamic light scattering was about 146 nm. It was shown that the present macromonomer mechanically produced can be used for the synthesis of amphiphilic bockcopolymer to form polymeric micelles.
Anticancer Effects of Combined γ-Tocotrienol and PPARγ-Antagonist Treatment are Associated with a Suppression in Adipogenic Factor Expression
Authors: Abhita Malaviya  , Parash Parajuli  , Paul W. Sylvester
Published: February 2014

Cancer cells reprogram their metabolism to meet the demands of accelerated growth. Glucose is the primary source of energy for cancer cells, but under conditions of high-energy demand lipids and free fatty acids become increasingly important. PPARγ is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily and acts to regulate adipocyte differentiation and lipid metabolism. However, in many types of cancer, PPARγ activity is elevated in order to increase production of adipogenic factors [1, 2]. γ-Tocotrienol is an isoform of vitamin E that displays potent anticancer activity [3]. Previous studies have shown that the antiproliferative effects of combined treatment of ã-tocotrienol with PPAR?antagonists was associated with a reduction in PPARγ activity, expression of PPAR? and RXR, and suppression in Akt activation in MCF-7 and MBA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells [4]. The present study was conducted to determine the effects of combination treatment with these agents on adipogenic factor levels in rapidly proliferating human breast cancer cells. Western blot and qRT-PCR studies showed that combined treatment of ?-tocotrienol with PPAR?antagonists not only suppressed the adipogenic proteins, C/EBPγ and SREBP-1c, but also decreased their target lipogenic enzymes, ap2, FAS, and HMGCoR. However, treatment effects were also observed in PPARγ silenced breast cancer cells, indicating that these effects are mediated through PPARγ-independent mechanism. These findings suggest the combined treatment of γ-tocotrienol with PPARγ antagonist may have potential as a therapeutic strategy in the treatment of breast cancer.
Bioavailability of Magnesium Salts – A Review
Authors: Ragnar Rylander
Published: February 2014

Background: Magnesium supplementation is of value in several different medical disorders. Several kinds of Mg-salts are commercially available.Purpose: This review evaluates their bioavailability criteria such as solubility, urinary excretion, and plasma levels of magnesium from studies of different Mg-salts.Conclusion: Although methodology differences were large, the results consistently demonstrate a better bioavailability for Mg-citrate.
Analysis of metadata schemas for children's libraries
Authors: Beak Jihee , Olson Hope A.
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this study is to evaluate two metadata schemas, AACR2+ and the International Children’s Digital Library’s metadata schema, in light of children’s information seeking behavior for book selection. While previous studies focus on the development of child-friendly interfaces, few of these studies discuss a metadata schema for children’s libraries. Given that effective information retrieval is based on well-constructed information organization, this study’s significance is its greater emphasis on information organization as a relevant factor than in previous studies. The methodology for this study consists of three parts: a meta-analysis of relevant research on children’s information seeking behaviors for book choices, a crosswalk of the metadata schemas, and a comparison of two data sets from the previous stages. The study finds that ICDL’s metadata schema tends to better reflect children’s unique information seeking behaviors for book choices as independent metadata elements than standard library cataloging does. Standard library cataloging tends to describe information reflecting children’s unique information seeking behaviors in a note area rather than describing in independent metadata elements. Therefore, by having independent and relevant metadata elements regarding the unique characteristics of children’s book choices, ICDL’s metadata schema provides more access points in a browse search system.
Soviet classifications and situated knowledges
Authors: Edwards Chloe
Published: February 2014

The most recent literature on systemic bias in classification has focused on how to most responsibly handle the bias that is inevitable in knowledge organization, rather than on eliminating it altogether. On the foundation of Donna Haraway’s work on situated knowledges, Feinberg has argued for multiple knowledge domains of acknowledged perspectives and care on the classificationist’s part for the rhetorical argument advanced by his classification; Mai has argued for the citation of cognitive authorities in classification work. These are all solutions which were implemented for ideological purposes in the Soviet library and bibliographic classifications created in the first half of the twentieth century. Far from producing responsible or accountable classifications, however, the Soviet classifications were one more layer of thought control in the all-encompassing totalitarian state, leading to the conclusion that it is not simply acknowledging bias which makes a classification responsible, but doing so in an open society where individuals are free to choose between systems of knowledge organization and to interrogate those with which they disagree.
Wittgenstein and web facets
Authors: Milonas Elizabeth
Published: February 2014

The World Wide Web has grown exponentially in the last few years. The popularity of Web search engines has also grown in a similar manner. The task of a Web search engine is to provide the Web searcher with accurate and targeted information from the plethora of information available on the Web. This is a daunting task that requires the careful usage of language to ensure accuracy. As a result, the importance of the usage and meaning of language in the Web domain has become the focus of recent research. In this paper, the author will explore Wittgenstein’s later philosophy of language as it applies to the language used in the search result pages of a Web search engine in an effort to broaden the understanding of language usage within this domain.
Social discovery tools: Cataloguing meets user convenience
Authors: Spiteri Louise F.
Published: February 2014

This paper examines how library users access, use, and interact with two social discovery systems used in two Canadian public library systems. How do public library users interact with social discovery systems? How does usage between the two social discovery systems compare? Daily transaction logs of the social discovery systems used by the two libraries were compiled from May-August, 2010. Fifty sets of bibliographic records were compared to evaluate user-contributed content. Results indicate that features that allow for user-generated content are underused in both systems. Future research will thus focus on clients' motivations for engaging with the social features of social discovery systems, and their perceptions of, and satisfaction with, the benefits of these features.
Multidimensional classifications: Past and future conceptualizations and visualizations
Authors: Van den Heuvel Charles
Published: February 2014

This paper maps the concepts “space” and “dimensionality” in classifications, in particular in visualizations hereof, from a historical perspective. After a historical excursion in the domain of classification theory of what in mathematics is known as dimensionality reduction in representations of a single universe of knowledge, its potentiality will be explored for information retrieval and navigation of the World Wide Web.
Towards a typology of classificatory change
Authors: Pimentel David M.
Published: February 2014

Classifications of all types invariably change in response to shifting conditions in the information environment. Revising the contents of subject-based schemes is an important type of change, but the phenomenon of classificatory change has multiple interrelated aspects that go beyond content. Conceptually isolating these aspects offers a starting point for describing and comparing different types of classificatory change. The typology proposed here attempts to situate classification schemes within a context of use, interacting with other elements of the information environment. As the digital information landscape continues to evolve, there are increased opportunities for classificatory innovation. While hyperlinks have become a pervasive element in the repertory of knowledge organization, the hypertext technique of transclusion has received considerably less attention. Transclusion offers an alternative way to envision the relationship between digital resources and classification schemes. Examples from the English-language Wikipedia demonstrate how transclusion is used in the digital encyclopedia to embed modular subject-based schemes that supplement knowledge navigation and discovery.
Mapping subjectivity: performing people-centered vocabulary alignment
Authors: Pattuelli Cristina
Published: February 2014

This paper describes a mapping of linked data vocabularies in the area of person-related information. Aligning vocabulary terms may help curb the problem of property proliferation that occurs in linked data environments. It also facilitates the process of choosing semantics for vocabulary extensions and integration in the context of linked data applications. Although a work in progress, this investigation would provide support for semantic integration and for knowledge sharing and reuse in the area of personal information representation. It also offers an opportunity to reflect on a new generation of knowledge organization systems such as linked data vocabularies that have started to populate the web and are converging with new representation models and discovery tools in libraries and other cultural heritage institutions.
Ranganathan's layers of classification theory and the FASDA model of classification
Authors: Tennis Joseph T.
Published: February 2014

Describes four waves of Ranganathan’s dynamic theory of classification. Outlines components that distinguish each wave, and porposes ways in which this understanding can inform systems design in the contemporary environment, particularly with regard to interoperability and scheme versioning. Ends with an appeal to better understanding the relationship between structure and semantics in faceted classification schemes and similar indexing languages.