bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Community College Transfer Calculator: Identifying the Course-Taking Patterns That Predict Transfer
Authors: Hagedorn Linda Serra , Cabrera Alberto , Prather George
Published: June 2010

Using a newly developed software application entitled The Community College Transfer Calculator©, this article both quantifies the effect of specific course-taking patterns and stresses the need for an easy to understand tool for community college academic advisors, faculty, and students. The “Calculator” calculates the likelihood of transfer given specific demographic and courses taken and/or scheduled. Moreover, the user can see the difference in the likelihood of transfer that changes in course-taking predict.
Psychometric Properties of the Chinese Version (C-DAP-R) of the Death Attitude Profile-Revised
Authors: Ho Andy H. Y. , Chan Cecilia L. W. , Chow Amy Y. M. , Pon Alicia K. L. , Ng Siu-Man
Published: June 2010

The psychometric properties of a Chinese version of the Death Attitude Profile-Revised (DAP-R) were examined with 100 young adult, 100 middleage adult, and 100 older adult Chinese respondents in Hong Kong (N = 300). Three of the five subscales from the original DAP-R including Fear of Death, Death Avoidance, and Escape Acceptance were replicated and had acceptable internal reliabilities (Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.79 to 0.85); comparison between these subscales and scores of the DAS provide evidence of concurrent validity. However, items on the Neutral Acceptance subscale loaded onto two separate factors, replicating findings from an earlier validation study of the DAP-R, and providing further evidence that this subscale may not be measuring a unitary construct. Moreover, items on the Approach Acceptance subscale also failed loaded on one factor and was split between two factors, suggesting a cultural difference between Western and Chinese peoples' perception of the afterlife and life after death. Discussions on research and clinical application are provided.
Chronic Respiratory Illnesses in Jordan: Pulmonary Physicians' Experiences in Risk Reduction
Authors: Madanat Hala N. , Cole Eugene C. , Barnes Michael D. , Bergin Meredith , Finnigan Charla
Published: June 2010

Chronic respiratory diseases are on the rise in Jordan. However, there is limited research on the symptoms reported by patients, the triggers associated with their illnesses, and the health education efforts of pulmonary physicians. Thus, the purpose of this qualitative study was to understand these issues from physicians' perspectives. Fourteen face-to-face interviews were done with pulmonary physicians in their clinics in Amman, Jordan. Physicians indicated that cultural barriers existed such as the social acceptance of smoking, prevalence of olive trees, and cultural practices such as kissing as a form of greeting. In addition, health education materials were scarce and of poor quality. Implications for health education are discussed.
Separation of Organic Chlorine Compounds through Batch Distillation Process
Authors: Brito Romildo Pereira , Machado Fabricio
Published: June 2010

In the present work simulation studies were carried out focusing on the separation of a mixture of chlorinated hydrocarbons of an industrial process stream by batch distillation process. The effect of different process variables on the performance of the batch separation process was evaluated. Based on the simulation results, it was observed that the column pressure has a significant effect on the condenser operation, indicating that operating pressure equal to 3 bar is more favorable to the process. It was shown that high values of the reboiler heat duty lead to a decrease in the operation time necessary to attain the steady state regime. Regarding the influence of the column reflux, it was also observed that reflux values exceeding 1.0 reduce the separation process performance, leading to a poor recovery of the components in the product tank. It was illustrated the occurrence of multiple steady states as a consequence of nonlinear response of the process to the reboiler holdup, characterized by complex nonlinear phenomena.
Optimization of inulinase production using copra waste by K. marxianus var. marxianus
Authors: Dilipkumar M. , Rajasimman M. , Rajamohan N.
Published: June 2010

Kluyveromyces marxianus var marxianus was found to secrete a large amount of extracellular inulinase in to the medium. The optimization of inulinase production using copra waste as carbon source was performed with statistical methodology based on experimental designs. The screening of eighteen nutrients for their influence on inulinase production was achieved using a Plackett-Burman design. Corn steep liquor, (NH4)2SO4, ZnSO4.7H2O, K2HPO4 and urea were selected based on their positive influence on inulinase production. The selected components were optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The optimum conditions are: corn steep liquor - 0.0560 (g/gds), (NH4)2SO4 - 0.0084 (g/gds), ZnSO4.7H2O - 0.0254 (g/gds), K2HPO4 - 0.0037 (g/gds) and urea - 0.02147 (g/gds). These conditions were validated experimentally which revealed an enhanced inulinase yield of 372 U/gds.
Effects of creatine supplementation on body mass and muscle girths in bodybuilders
Authors: Jagiełło Władysław , Kruszewski Marek , Banach Jakub
Published: June 2010

Effects of creatine supplementation on body mass and muscle girths in bodybuilders

Study aim: To find out whether a 6-week creatine supplementation would significantly augment body mass and muscle circumferences in male bodybuilders.

Material and methods: A group of 14 male bodybuilders aged 16 - 29 years were randomly divided into two groups: experimental (E) and control (C), 7 subjects each. Group E received creatine monohydrate, Group C - placebo, 10 g daily for 6 weeks without saturation phase. The experimental design was a double-blind one. All subjects were on strictly controlled diet, the daily intakes amounting to 2.3 - 2.8 g of protein, 1.0 - 1.2 g of fat and 5 - 6 g/kg body mass of carbohydrate, and 3200 - 4000 kcal. All subjects trained 3 days a week, each session lasting 120 min, in the ‘Power, Rep-Range, Shock’ mode. Chest, waist, arm, forearm, thigh and calf girths were measured in the relaxed and contracted states, together with body mass, before and after the study.

Results: Significant, training-induced changes were noted in almost all body circumferences studied in both groups and muscle states, those in the chest, biceps and thigh girths being the most pronounced ones and significantly (p<0.05) greater in the experimental than in control group in the contracted muscle state. In the relaxed state the between-group differences were significant for the chest and thigh girths. The increments in body mass were significantly (p<0.01) higher in the experimental than in control group (4.3 ± 1.3 and 2.1 ± 0.7 kg, respectively).

Conclusions: The observed changes may have been brought about by creatine administration.
The Influence of the Therapist-Patient Relationship on Treatment Outcome in Physical Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hall Amanda M. , Ferreira Paulo H. , Maher Christopher G. , Latimer Jane , Ferreira Manuela L.
Published: June 2010

Background

The working alliance, or collaborative bond, between client and psychotherapist has been found to be related to outcome in psychotherapy.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the working alliance is related to outcome in physical rehabilitation settings.

Data Sources

A sensitive search of 6 databases identified a total of 1,600 titles.

Study Selection

Prospective studies of patients undergoing physical rehabilitation were selected for this systematic review.

Data Extraction

For each included study, descriptive data regarding participants, interventions, and measures of alliance and outcome—as well as correlation data for alliance and outcomes—were extracted.

Data Synthesis

Thirteen studies including patients with brain injury, musculoskeletal conditions, cardiac conditions, or multiple pathologies were retrieved. Various outcomes were measured, including pain, disability, quality of life, depression, adherence, and satisfaction with treatment. The alliance was most commonly measured with the Working Alliance Inventory, which was rated by both patient and therapist during the third or fourth treatment session. The results indicate that the alliance is positively associated with: (1) treatment adherence in patients with brain injury and patients with multiple pathologies seeking physical therapy, (2) depressive symptoms in patients with cardiac conditions and those with brain injury, (3) treatment satisfaction in patients with musculoskeletal conditions, and (4) physical function in geriatric patients and those with chronic low back pain.

Limitations

Among homogenous studies, there were insufficient reported data to allow pooling of results.

Conclusions

From this review, the alliance between therapist and patient appears to have a positive effect on treatment outcome in physical rehabilitation settings; however, more research is needed to determine the strength of this association.
Family Priorities for Activity and Participation of Children and Youth With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Chiarello Lisa A. , Palisano Robert J. , Maggs Jill M. , Orlin Margo N. , Almasri Nihad , Kang Lin-Ju , Chang Hui-Ju
Published: June 2010

Background

Understanding family priorities for children and youth with cerebral palsy is essential for family-centered service.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to identify family priorities for activity and participation in children and youth with cerebral palsy and (2) to determine differences based on age and Gross Motor Functional Classification System (GMFCS) level.

Design

Five hundred eighty-five children and youth with cerebral palsy and their caregivers participated at regional children's hospitals. The children and youth were 2 to 21 years of age; 56% were male, and 44% were female. Their caregivers, predominantly mothers (80%), had a mean age of 40.3 years (SD=9.3). The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure was administered to caregivers to identify their priorities for their children. The priorities were coded into 3 categories (daily activities, productivity, and leisure) and 13 subcategories. The GMFCS levels were determined by assessors who met the criterion for reliability. Friedman and Kruskal-Wallis one-way analyses of variance were used to examine differences in priorities.

Results

Parents of children in all age groups and GMFCS levels II to V identified more priorities for daily activities. Parents of school-aged children and youth had more priorities for productivity than parents of younger children. For parents of children in all age groups and motor function levels, self-care was the most frequent priority subcategory. Sixty-one percent of parents identified at least one priority related to mobility.

Limitations

The study did not include qualitative analysis of priorities of parents.

Conclusions

Parents' priorities for their children and youth with cerebral palsy differed depending on age and gross motor function level; however, the most frequent priority for all age groups was daily activities. Interviews with families are recommended for identifying outcomes for activity and participation and developing an intervention plan.
Heart rate variability and heat sensation during CT coronary angiography: Low-osmolar versus iso-osmolar contrast media
Authors: Svensson Anders , Ripsweden Jonaz , Rück Andreas , Aspelin Peter , Cederlund Kerstin , Brismar B. Torkel
Published: June 2010

Background: During computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) unexpected changes in heart rate while scanning may affect image quality.

Purpose: To evaluate whether an iso-osmolar contrast medium (IOCM, iodixanol) and a low-osmolar contrast medium (LOCM, iomeprol) affect heart rate and experienced heat sensation differently.

Material and Methods: One hundred patients scheduled for CTCA were randomized to receive either iodixanol 320 mgI/ml or iomeprol 400 mgI/ml. Depending on their heart rate, the patients were assigned to one of five scanning protocols, each optimized for different heart rate ranges. During scanning the time between each heart beat (hb) was recorded, and the corresponding heart rate was calculated. For each contrast medium (CM) the average heart rate, the variation in heart rate from individual mean heart rate, and the mean deviation from the predefined scanning protocol were calculated. Experience of heat was obtained immediately after scanning by using a visual analog scale (VAS). Examination quality was rated by two radiologists on a three-point scale.

Results: The mean variation in heart rate after IOCM was 1.4 hb/min and after LOCM it was 4.4 hb/min (NS). The mean deviations in heart rate from that in the predefined scanning protocol were 2.0 hb/min and 4.7 hb/min, respectively (NS). A greater number of arrhythmic hb were observed after LOCM compared with IOCM ( P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in image quality. The LOCM group reported a stronger heat sensation after CM injection than the IOCM group (VAS =36 mm and 18 mm, P<0.05).

Conclusion: At clinically used concentrations the IOCM, iodixanol 320 mgI/ml, does not increase the heart rate during CTCA and causes less heart arrhythmia and less heat sensation than the LOCM, iomeprol 400 mgI/ml.
Resistance in Rice Breeding Lines to the Blast Fungus in Nepal
Authors: Chaudhary Bedanand , Shrestha Sundar M , Sharma Ram C
Published: June 2010

A total of 36 rice breeding lines including checks were evaluated for resistance to blast atRampur during 2000-2001. The experiments were conducted under both field condition andgreenhouse inoculated condition. Qualitative resistance in rice to blast was assessed based onlesion type, whereas quantitative resistance was assessed based on area under disease progresscurve (AUDPC) in the upland field condition. The number of sporulating lesions and the numberof leaves with at least one sporulating lesion per plant were considered as measures forevaluation of quantitative resistance in the greenhouse assay. The lesion type, neck blastpercentage and AUDPC data suggest that most of the rice lines possess higher level of resistanceto leaf and neck blast. The rice lines varied for the number of sporulating lesions and the numberof leaves with sporulating lesion per plant. Some lines were incompatible to virulent blastisolates, showing major resistance genes. NR 1558, NR 601-1-1-9, BW306-2 and CN 836-3-10were promising lines for quantitative resistance to both leaf and neck blast. Radha 12, Sabitri,Janaki possess higher level of quantitative resistance to blast, hence these could be promoted forcultivation in blast-prone environments. These genotypes could also be utilized as donor parentsfor breeding durable blast resistant varieties. The most virulent blast isolate could be used forevaluation of both qualitative and quantitative resistance to blast in early generation in thegreenhouse so that workload could be cut down in future works.Key words: Blast resistance; field condition; greenhouse assay; Pyricularia grisea; rice linesDOI: 10.3126/narj.v6i0.3344Nepal Agriculture Research Journal Vol.6 2005 pp.49-56
Development and Evaluation of Improved Feeders for Goats Suitable to Stall-fed Management System
Authors: Upreti Chet R , Kuwar Bahadur S , Panday Shambhu B
Published: June 2010

Five different types of feeders were designed and tested on goats to find out their effectivenessin reducing feed wastage and cost fabrication. Experiment was conducted at AgricultureResearch Station (ARS)-Bandipur for two years. Tested feeders were hexagonal, rectangular,hay rack, chain barrel and conventional wooden Tatnu. Feeders were fabricated using iron barsand woods. They were tested with the adult goats for feed wastage and feed contamination.Experimental feeds were fodders twigs (Tanki), forage (Stylo, Napier), crop residue (straw fromblack bean) and commercial concentrate. Chain barrel type of feeder was also tested at farmer’sfield at Baradi. Rectangular feeders have significantly lower (P<0.01) feed wastage (6.61% forfodders) compared to other tested feeders. The fabrication cost was NRs 3200, 1700, 700, 900,and 150 for hexagonal, rectangular; hay rack, chain barrel and conventional wooden Tatnurespectively. The rectangular feeder is suitable for goats feeding in Tarai and in the hills ofNepal. It has provision for feeding fodders, grasses, crop residues and concentrates together atthe same time. Chain barrel type had comparatively higher wastage (10.7% for fodder) than therectangular but was preferred by the farmers due to its low fabricating cost, portable in size,small space required and easy to handle. Therefore, the rectangular feeder is recommended formiddle level farmers and chain barrel for small farmers who rear few goats.Key words: Contamination; cost effective; feed saving; small farmer; stall-feed; suitable feedersDOI: 10.3126/narj.v6i0.3368Nepal Agriculture Research Journal Vol.6 2005 pp.78-83
Growth, Efficiency of Feed Utilization and Economics of Different Rearing Periods of Turkeys Mukesh Karki
Authors: Karki Mukesh
Published: June 2010

The present study on body weight and feed efficiency for growth was carried out on 112 turkeypoults from day of hatch to 28 weeks of age during May to November 2002 at Poultry ResearchUnit of Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS)-Parwanipur. Layer starter rationsupplemented with 6% fish meal + 0.3% lysine + 0.125% methonine was fed up to 8 weeks ofage, then after layer finisher diet was fed. The body weight, feed consumption was observed at 4weekly interval and feed efficiency and economics of rearing period in terms of income overfeed and poults cost was calculated. Significant increase in body weight was recorded up to 28weeks in male and 20 weeks in female. Male turkey had significantly higher body weight thanthat of female in all ages. Feed efficiency is best at earlier age but up to 16 weeks it is 3.77 formale after that it detoriates progressively. Male turkey exhibited better feed efficiency than thatof female for all weeks. Significantly higher return per bird was obtained from male than that offemale in all age. The profit per bird for both male and female was found maximum in 16 weeksof rearing, followed by 20 weeks and 24 weeks. Therefore, instead of waiting for highest bodyweight, it is better to sell turkey at 16 to 20 weeks of age to take maximum advantage of higherweight gain, higher efficiency of feed utilization and higher profit.Key words: Economics; feed utilization; growth; rearing period; turkeyDOI: 10.3126/narj.v6i0.3369Nepal Agriculture Research Journal Vol.6 2005 pp.84-88
Occurrence of Garlic Rust in Mid Hill of Nepal
Authors: Timila Ram D , Joshi Sharada , Manandhar Gyanu , Sharma Sarala
Published: June 2010

DOI: 10.3126/narj.v6i0.3372Nepal Agriculture Research Journal Vol.6 2005 pp.110-111
Associative Nitrogen Fixation in Lowland Rice
Authors: Shrestha Raj K , Maskey Surya L
Published: June 2010

Nitrogen (N), a most limiting nutrient, is the input required in the largest quantity for lowlandrice production. The concerns on N economy and efficiency and its impact on environment haverenewed interest in exploring alternative or supplementary N source for sustainable agriculture.Several studies have indicated the existence of significant rice genotypic differences in N2fixation stimulating traits (NFS). Rice genotypes with high NFS are desirable because they addN to the soil-water-plant system without additional farm inputs and reduce dependence onfertilizer. Large genotypic differences in percent N derived from air (% Ndfa) like 1.5% inAbang Basur, medium maturing genotype, to 21% in Oking Seroni, late maturing genotype,indicates potential of isolating genotypes with high NFS for sustainable agriculture. Theexogenous supply of nitrogenous fertilizer to lowland rice significantly inhibited N fixation butimproved plant growth. Where as phosphorous fertilizer did not affect atom % 15N excess and %Ndfa significantly but slight decrease in atom % 15N excess and increase in N2 fixation wasobserved. Inhibitory effect of exogenous supply of N fertilizer indicates limited potential ofassociative N2 fixation to significantly benefit agriculture. Farmers would have to withhold Nfertilizer from their rice crop in order to increase biological N2-fixation associated with rice. Ifthey do such practice the plants will be N deficient and might have a lower yield. However, thedevelopment of N fixation in response to a deficiency of available N may well be an integral partof the N cycle of natural ecosystem and low input farming system there by maintaining a Nbalance in the environment.Key words: Fertilizer; fixation; nitrogen; riceDOI: 10.3126/narj.v6i0.3373Nepal Agriculture Research Journal Vol.6 2005 pp.110-111
Cognition-Based Extraction and Modelling of Topographic Eminences
Authors: Sinha Gaurav , Mark David M.
Published: June 2010

Terrain is generally stored in GIS as an elevation field, whereas human cognition of the landscape is usually object based. To address this mismatch of terrain data models, we propose object-based terrain representation, using topographic eminences, which are landforms that rise up conspicuously from the ground to visibly dominate the landscape, to illustrate our case. We propose a cognition-based methodology for automated detection and delineation of eminences from digital elevation models (DEMs). Alternative conceptualizations of the landscape can be realized by simple manipulation of intuitive parameters such as a peak's relative height and distance. Our approach delimits the extent of eminences based purely on topographic gradient and aspect, much like the delineation of ridges as watershed boundaries. Smaller eminences can be incrementally aggregated into larger cognitive wholes, enabling scale-sensitive landscape reconstruction. The ability to integrate field and object views of the landscape is essential for raster–vector data-layer integration; therefore, we also discuss some database-modelling and ontology-development strategies to manage the extracted landforms within a GIS.
A Common Framework for Visually Reconciling Geographic Data Semantics in Geospatial Data Mapping Portals
Authors: Ahlqvist Ola
Published: June 2010

By leveraging emerging Web 2.0 technologies and approaches, mapping portals have the potential to expand both the capabilities and the user base of geospatial mapping. Tools that address semantic interoperability are central to achieving this vision, and the most common models for category semantics offer largely compatible capabilities to produce various semantic relationship metrics. This article therefore looks beyond any particular model for semantic representation to propose the semantic relationship matrix as a common structure for designing visual displays for semantic evaluation. The matrix provides a structure for separating semantic analysis into three distinct evaluation types, each helping users understand various aspects of concept relationships and their meaning. This approach is illustrated in the context of landcover mapping and the US Geological Survey's National Map, but the author argues that the framework also generalizes to other mapping portals that seek to integrate many data themes and sources into one geovisual interface.
Sphere-to-Sphere Projections: Proportional Enlargement on a Spherical Surface
Authors: Kronenfeld Barry J.
Published: June 2010

An equivalent alignment-preserving projection family is developed to portray a region of the Earth on a spherical surface while altering the proportion of the sphere covered. Shape distortion is evaluated using Airy's criterion and compared to analogous projection onto a planar surface for a range of proportional enlargement factors and for regions varying in central latitude and latitudinal extent. Distortion from projection onto the sphere is found to be comparable with projection onto the plane for mid- to high-latitude regions of moderate geographic extent and proportional enlargement factors up to 25×. Several examples of sphere-to-sphere projection illustrate their potential uses and limitations.
Travelling the Path from Fantasy to History: The Struggle for Original History within Freud's Early Circle, 1908–1913
Authors: Cotti Patricia
Published: June 2010

Between 1908 and 1913, Freud and his disciples debated different theories of the origins of mankind, which Freud analysed in the context of his theory of neuroses. Wittels was the first of this group to present, in 1908, what Freud labelled a ‘fantasy’ on the subject. Wittels contemplated various prehistoric scenarios (such as a murder of the father by his children) which he postulated as potential explanations for the origin of man's conception of religion, law and state. Freud (1913) eventually conceived his own human prehistory which differed significantly from the ideas of Wittels and his other disciples (Jung, Tausk) and allowed him to claim he now held a ‘historical’ point of view that his disciples were missing.
General Framework of Pressure Effects on Structures Formed by Entropically Driven Self-Assembly
Authors: Yoshidome Takashi
Published: June 2010

We review a general framework of pressure effects on the structures formed by entropically driven self-assembly (for example, denaturation of proteins from their native structure and dissociation of ordered structure of the amyloid fibril occur at high pressures). In the framework, the translational entropy of water is an essential factor. Our findings are as follows: at low pressures, the structures almost minimizing the excluded volume (EV) generated for water molecules are stable. On the other hand, at high pressures, the structures possessing the largest possible water-accessible surface area together with sufficiently small EV become more stable. These characteristics are consistent with experimental observations.
Empirical Models of Demand for Out-Patient Physician Services and Their Relevance to the Assessment of Patient Payment Policies: A Critical Review of the Literature
Authors: Skriabikova Olga , Pavlova Milena , Groot Wim
Published: June 2010

This paper reviews the existing empirical micro-level models of demand for out-patient physician services where the size of patient payment is included either directly as an independent variable (when a flat-rate co-payment fee) or indirectly as a level of deductibles and/or co-insurance defined by the insurance coverage. The paper also discusses the relevance of these models for the assessment of patient payment policies. For this purpose, a systematic literature review is carried out. In total, 46 relevant publications were identified. These publications are classified into categories based on their general approach to demand modeling, specifications of data collection, data analysis, and main empirical findings. The analysis indicates a rising research interest in the empirical micro-level models of demand for out-patient physician services that incorporate the size of patient payment. Overall, the size of patient payments, consumer socio-economic and demographic features, and quality of services provided emerge as important determinants of demand for out-patient physician services. However, there is a great variety in the modeling approaches and inconsistencies in the findings regarding the impact of price on demand for out-patient physician services. Hitherto, the empirical research fails to offer policy-makers a clear strategy on how to develop a country-specific model of demand for out-patient physician services suitable for the assessment of patient payment policies in their countries. In particular, theoretically important factors, such as provider behavior, consumer attitudes, experience and culture, and informal patient payments, are not considered. Although we recognize that it is difficult to measure these factors and to incorporate them in the demand models, it is apparent that there is a gap in research for the construction of effective patient payment schemes.
Ecological and Physiological Studies of Gymnodinium catenatum in the Mexican Pacific: A Review
Authors: Band-Schmidt Christine J. , Bustillos-Guzmán José J. , López-Cortés David J. , Gárate-Lizárraga Ismael , Núñez-Vázquez Erick J. , Hernández-Sandoval Francisco E.
Published: June 2010

This review presents a detailed analysis of the state of knowledge of studies done in Mexico related to the dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum, a paralytic toxin producer. This species was first reported in the Gulf of California in 1939; since then most studies in Mexico have focused on local blooms and seasonal variations. G. catenatum is most abundant during March and April, usually associated with water temperatures between 18 and 25 ºC and an increase in nutrients. In vitro studies of G. catenatum strains from different bays along the Pacific coast of Mexico show that this species can grow in wide ranges of salinities, temperatures, and N:P ratios. Latitudinal differences are observed in the toxicity and toxin profile, but the presence of dcSTX, dcGTX2-3, C1, and C2 are usual components. A common characteristic of the toxin profile found in shellfish, when G. catenatum is present in the coastal environment, is the detection of dcGTX2-3, dcSTX, C1, and C2. Few bioassay studies have reported effects in mollusks and lethal effects in mice, and shrimp; however no adverse effects have been observed in the copepod Acartia clausi. Interestingly, genetic sequencing of D1-D2 LSU rDNA revealed that it differs only in one base pair, compared with strains from other regions.
In Vitro Antioxidant Activity and Hepatoprotective Effects of Lentinula edodes against Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Sasidharan Sreenivasan , Aravindran Sugumaran , Latha Lachimanan Yoga , Vijenthi Ratnasamy , Saravanan Dharmaraj , Amutha Santhanam
Published: June 2010

Background: The objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of methanolic extracts of L. edodes and the determination of their total phenolics content. Results: The amount of total phenolics was estimated to be 70.83 mg Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE) per gram of dry extract. The antioxidant activity of the L. edodes extract was 39.0% at a concentration of 1 mg/mL and was also concentration dependant, with an EC50 value of 4.4 mg/mL. Different groups of animals (Wister albino mice) were administered paracetamol (1 g/kg, p.o.). L. edodes extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg was administered to the paracetamol treated mice for seven days. The effects of L. edodes extract on serum transaminases (SGOT, SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bilirubin were measured in the paracetamol-induced hepatotoxic mice. L. edodes extract produced significant (p < 0.05) hepatoprotective effects by decreasing the activity of serum enzymes and bilirubin. Conclusions: From these results, it was suggested that L. edodes extract could perhaps protect liver cells from paracetamol-induced liver damage by its antioxidative effect on hepatocytes, hence diminishing or eliminating the harmful effects of toxic metabolites of paracetamol.
Compounds from Viburnum sargentii Koehne and Evaluation of Their Cytotoxic Effects on Human Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Bae Ki-Eun , Chong Han-Soo , Kim Dong-Sup , Choi Young-Woong , Kim Young-Sook , Kim Young-Kyoon
Published: June 2010

Compounds were isolated from a methanol extract of the dried stem barks of Viburnum sargentii Koehne. The structures of the compounds, namely 9'-O-methylvibsanol (3), furcatoside A (4) and lareciresinol (5) were elucidated by analysis of spectroscopic data and comparison with values for previously known analogues. In addition, (+)-catechin (1), (+)-epicatechin (2) were also isolated. This work also examined the cytotoxic effects of three compounds 3-5 (25-100 μM) in MCF-7 and A549 cells after 24, 48 and 72 h of exposure. Our results showed that 9'-O-methylvibsanol (3) exhibited strong concentration-dependent anticancer effects according to the MTT assay and produced morphological changes consistent with apoptosis, as confirmed by Ho3342 staining analysis revealed that more apoptotic cells were observed after 9'-Omethylvibsanol (3) treatment.
Generation and characterization of 11 novel est derived microsatellites from Vicia faba (Fabaceae)
Authors: Gong Ya‐Ming , Xu Sheng‐Chun , Mao Wei‐Hua , Hu Qi‐Zan , Zhang Gu‐Wen , Ding Ju , Li Ze‐Yun
Published: June 2010

• Premise of the study: Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were developed for faba bean using expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from the NCBI database to study for genetic diversity.

• Methods and Results: A total of 11 novel EST‐SSR loci were generated and characterized when tested on four populations of 29 faba bean individuals from China and Europe. The number of alleles (A) ranged from 1 to 3 in each population, and observed heterozygosity (HO) and expected heterozygosity (HE) ranged from 0 to 0.5000 and 0.6400, respectively. Furthermore, transferable analysis revealed that eight of these loci (72.73%) amplified in Pisum sativum L., six of which (75.00%) detected polymorphism.

• Conclusions: The developed markers in this study will provide valuable tools for genetic diversity, resource conservation, genetic mapping, and marker‐assisted breeding of faba bean in the future.
A surprising new route to 4-nitro-3-phenylisoxazole
Authors: Hopf Henning , Mourad Aboul-fetouh E , Jones Peter G
Published: June 2010

A one-pot synthesis of 4-nitro-3-phenylisoxazole has been carried out by treatment of cinnamyl alcohol dissolved in acetic acid with sodium nitrite; in addition, 4-phenyl-3-furoxanmethanol was obtained in 40% yield.
Effect of administration of rumen fungi on production performance of lactating buffaloes
Authors: Saxena S. , Sehgal J. , Puniya A. , Singh K.
Published: June 2010

Anaerobic fungi were orally dosed to lactating buffaloes to study their effect on the digestibility of a diet (composed of 50% wheat straw and 50% concentrate along with six kg maize green/animal/day), rumen fermentation patterns and milk production. Group I (control) was administered with fungus-free anaerobic broth, while group II and III were administered with Orpinomyces sp. C-14 or Piromyces sp. WNG-12 (250 ml; 3-5 days of growth/animal/ week), respectively. Milk production was higher in group II and III (8.42 and 8.48 kg/d) than in the control (8.03 kg/d) with virtually the same feed intake (i.e. 11.50 and 10.62 and 11.79 kg, respectively). There was an increase of 6% fat-corrected milk yield/animal/day in group II and III, respectively compared to the control. The milk fat was higher in the fungal culture administered groups than in the control group. The digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, cellulose and digestible energy also increased significantly in group II and III. The pH and ammonia nitrogen were lower, whereas total volatile fatty acids, total nitrogen, trichloroacid precipitable nitrogen and number of zoospores/ml of rumen liquor were higher in group II and III when compared to the control. Hence, it can be stated that rumen fungi can be used as a direct-fed microbial in lactating buffaloes, to enhance the digestibility of wheat straw based diets leading to higher production.
Anti-inflammatory properties of probiotic bacteria on Salmonella-induced IL-8 synthesis in enterocyte-like Caco-2 cells
Authors: Malago J. , Tooten P. , Koninkx J.F.
Published: June 2010

Invasion of the gut by pathogenic Salmonella leads to production of IL-8 that initiates inflammatory reactions to combat the bacterium. However, its persistent production causes tissue damage and interventions that suppress IL-8 production prevent tissue damage. We hypothesised that probiotics could mediate their benefits via inhibition of IL-8 synthesis. Caco-2 cells were infected with probiotic Bifidobacterium infantis W52, Lactobacillus casei W56, Lactococcus lactis W58, Lactobacillus acidophilus W70, Bifidobacterium bifidum W23, or Lactobacillus salivarius W24 or pathogenic Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis 857 at 0, 0.2, 1, 2, 10, 20, 100 or 200 bacterial cells/Caco-2 cell for 1 hour. Cells were also exposed to a combination of one probiotic bacterium (200 bacterial cells/Caco-2 cell) and the graded numbers of Salmonella as either co-incubation (1 hour) or pre-incubation of the probiotic bacterium (1 hour) followed by Salmonella (1 hour). The cells recovered for 2 or 24 hours. IL-8 and Hsp70 were determined by ELISA and Western blot respectively. Both probiotics and Salmonella induced a dose- and time-dependent synthesis of IL-8 but probiotics induced far lower IL-8 levels than Salmonella. The Salmonella-induced IL-8 was significantly suppressed by B. infantis W52, L. casei W56 and L. lactis W58 at low numbers of Salmonella (0.2 to 20 bacterial cells/Caco-2 cell) and within 2 hours of recovery. The observed probiotic-mediated reduction in IL-8 secretion was transient, and lost after a few hours. In addition, these three probiotics induced a significant increase in Hsp70 expression while L. acidophilus W70, B. bifidum W23 and L. salivarius W24 induced a weak Hsp70 expression and could not suppress the Salmonella-induced IL-8 synthesis. We conclude that suppression of Salmonella-induced IL-8 synthesis by Caco-2 cells is exhibited by probiotics that induce expression of Hsp70, suggesting that the protective role of probiotics could be mediated, at least in part, via Hsp70 expression. This suppression is limited to a low number of infecting pathogenic Salmonella.
Late rather than early responses of human dendritic cells highlight selective induction of cytokines, chemokines and growth factors by probiotic bacteria
Authors: Verbeek R. , Bsibsi M. , Plomp A. , van Neerven R. , te Biesebeke R. , van Noort J.
Published: June 2010

The probiotic properties of commensal bacteria including lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are likely to be determined at least in part by their effects on dendritic cells. Like traditional immune stimulants such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS), probiotic bacteria promote maturation of cultured human dendritic cells (DC) by inducing elevated expression of MHC-II and co-stimulatory molecules. Different effects have been reported on cytokine induction, especially of major regulatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-12 and IL-10. Yet, these previous analyses have failed to reveal consistent differences between such effects of probiotics on the one hand, and of LPS on the other. Selective response markers for probiotics, however, would be important for our understanding of their biological properties and for a rational selection of strains for in vivo studies. In this study, we compared in detail both early and late effects on cultured human DC of 4 different probiotics with those of LPS. At the early stages of stimulation, all stimuli induced qualitatively very similar responses in DC at the level of surface markers and secretion of cytokines and chemokines. A lower immune stimulatory effect was observed by Bifidobacterium animalis BB-12 as compared to lactobacilli. Late responses, on the other hand, tended to diverge. Microarray transcript profiling for 268 cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and their receptors after 2 days of culture revealed various transcripts to be selectively induced by certain probiotics but not LPS. Our data indicate that late rather than early DC responses may be helpful to clarify the divergent biological effects of probiotics on human innate immune responses.
Diets supplemented with chickpea or its main oligosaccharide component raffinose modify faecal microbial composition in healthy adults
Authors: Fernando W. , Hill J. , Zello G. , Tyler R. , Dahl W. , Van Kessel A.
Published: June 2010

The effects of diets supplemented with either chickpea or its main oligosaccharide raffinose on the composition of the faecal microbial community were examined in 12 healthy adults (18-65 years) in a randomised crossover intervention study. Subjects consumed their usual diet supplemented with soups and desserts that were unfortified, or fortified with either 200 g/d of canned chickpeas or 5 g/d of raffinose for 3 week periods. Changes in faecal bacterial populations of subjects were examined using 16S rRNA-based terminal restriction fragment length polymorphisms (T-RFLP) and clone libraries generated from the diet pools. Classification of the clone libraries and T-RFLP analysis revealed that Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, reported to be an efficient butyrate producer and a highly metabolically active bacterium in the human intestinal microbiota, was more abundant in the raffinose diet and the chickpea diet compared to the control diet. However, no significant difference was observed in the faecal total short chain fatty acid concentration or in the levels of the components (butyrate, acetate and propionate) with the chickpea diet or the raffinose diet compared to the control diet. Bifidobacterium species were detected by T-RFLP in all three diet groups and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) analysis showed a marginal increase in 16S rRNA gene copies of Bifidobacterium with the raffinose diet compared to control (P>0.05). The number of individuals showing TRFs for the Clostridium histolyticum - Clostridum lituseburense groups, which include pathogenic bacteria species and putrefactive bacteria, were lower in the chickpea diet compared to the other two treatments. Diet appeared to affect colonisation by a high ammonia-producing bacterial isolate which was detected in 83%, 92% and 42% of individuals in the control, raffinose and chickpea groups, respectively. Our results indicate that chickpea and raffinose have the potential to modulate the intestinal microbial composition to promote intestinal health in humans.
Xylo-oligosaccharides and lactitol promote the growth of Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus species in pure cultures
Authors: Mäkeläinen H. , Saarinen M. , Stowell J. , Rautonen N. , Ouwehand A.
Published: June 2010

The current screening study aimed at identifying promising prebiotic and synbiotic candidates. The fermentation of xylo-oligosaccharides, xylan, galacto-oligosaccharide, fructo-oligosaccharide, polydextrose, lactitol, gentiobiose and pullulan was investigated in vitro. The ability of these established and potential prebiotic candidates to function as a sole carbon source for probiotic (Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus), intestinal and potential pathogenic microbes (Eubacterium, Bacteroides, Clostridium, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus) was assessed in pure cultures. Xylo-oligosaccharides were fermented with high specificity by the tested Bifidobacterium lactis strains and lactitol by lactobacilli, whereas galacto-oligosaccharides, fructo-oligosaccharides and gentiobiose were utilised by a larger group of microbes. Xylan, polydextrose and pullulan were utilised to a limited extent by only a few of the tested microbes. The results of this screening study indicate that xylo-oligosaccharides and lactitol support the growth of a limited number of beneficial microbes in pure cultures. Such a high degree of specificity has not been previously reported for established prebiotics. Based on these results, the most promising prebiotics and synbiotic combinations can be selected for further testing.
Development of a rapid screening protocol for selection of strains resistant to spray drying and storage in dry powder
Authors: Reimann S. , Grattepanche F. , Baggenstos C. , Rezzonico E. , Berger B. , Arigoni F. , Lacroix C.
Published: June 2010

An efficient screening method for selection of Bifidobacterium longum strains resistant to spray drying and storage
was developed based on randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) for identification of the best survivors in
mixed strains bacterial preparations. Three different primers were used to generate RAPD profiles of 22 B. longum
strains. All strains were distinguished according to their RAPD profiles except for the strain NCC2705 and its H2O2
resistant derivative variant. The 22 strains were grouped in 3 batches of 7, 7 and 8 strains and subjected to spray drying
and storage at 30 and 37 °C under anaerobic conditions. Batch survival rates after spray drying reached 17.1±4.4%.
Strains showing the highest prevalence and/or resistance to storage at 37 °C were selected from individual batches
for subsequent spray drying and storage testing. After 67 days of storage, NCC572 was identified as the dominant
strain in powder. The stability of strain NCC572 was confirmed by performing single spray drying and storage tests.
Out of 22 B. longum strains, a robust strain was identified by combining RAPD with a simultaneous screening test
for survival under spray drying and storage. The method allowed a fast screening of B. longum strains in mixture
for resistance to spray drying and storage compared to traditional screening procedures carried out with individual
strains, in the same conditions. This approach could be applied to other stress conditions.
Possible synergistic effect between high lactate and insufficient intake of peptides caused biomass reduction during high-cell starter culture production
Authors: Boonmee M.
Published: June 2010

Lactic starter culture production is normally subjected to the end-product inhibition on growth, which limits the
biomass produced per production batch. Removal of lactate ions during the biomass production has improved the
biomass production. It allows for the use of higher sugar concentration so that high biomass concentration can
be obtained. Lactate removal by ion exchange resin during Lactococcus lactis NZ133 cultivation was applied as a
strategy for enhancing the production of lactic starter culture biomass. At high lactose concentrations of 180 g/l,
the unexpected reduction in the biomass was evident regardless of the remaining sugar in the fermentation broth.
The amount of protein and proteins/polypeptides pattern profile during cultivation were investigated as protein
availability was suspected to be the potential cause of biomass reduction during high cell cultivation applying the
ion exchange technique. Reduction in biomass concentration, after its maximum of 26 g/l, was observed after the
protein concentration was unchanged while the remaining lactose continued to be utilised. A sharp decrease in
protein concentration following the addition of resin corresponded to the disappearance of the smear band of protein
sized 6,512-26,625 Da when more resin was added to remove lactate. The smear band remained throughout the
conventional batch cultivation period. Based on the results, insufficient supply of peptides caused by the loss through
adsorption onto ion exchange resin which occurred at high lactate level was postulated as the most probable cause
of the biomass reduction. The result also indicated an inefficient use of supplemented protein sources supplied in
correspond to the increase in lactose concentration due to the presence of appreciable amounts of residual protein
at the end of cultivation process.
Building Integrated Agriculture: Utilising Rooftops for Sustainable Food Crop Cultivation in Singapore
Authors: Astee Lim Yinghui , Kishnani Nirmal T
Published: June 2010

Burgeoning population and rapid urbanisation have contributed to two challenges facing cities today: food security and an increasing carbon footprint due to food imports. This paper examines the viability of rooftop farming in urban centres in Asia. A context-specific exploration—sited in Singapore—looks at the challenges of building integrated agriculture. Findings suggest that Singapore's public housing estates are suitable for rooftop farming. Implemented nationwide, such a scheme could result in a 700% increase in domestic vegetable production, satisfying domestic demand by 35.5%. Reducing food imports would also decrease Singapore's carbon footprint by 9,052 tonnes of emissions annually.