bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the Information Society in Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia
Authors: Feltynowski Marcin
Published: January 2012

The article is presenting facts about the politics carried on the EU concerning development of the information society in Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia - countries that in 2004 became members of the EU. Enlargement of the EU structures allowed for more dynamic development of these countries in the information society context. The situation of each country was presented by indicators describing the household and the community situation in information society. Indicators was gained from Eurostat system. The universality of these indicators lets to the assessment of the level and dynamics of development in relation to the EU average. Comparison of Poland and its southern neighbors allows also to observe changes that occur and may allow better progress in this field.
Research and Development Expenditures of Innovative Enterprises in the Time of Crisis
Authors: Lech Aleksandra
Published: January 2012

The paper presents the reaction of companies that have been making the largest outlays on R&D in a global scale to the current economic crisis. The analysis paid special attention to what extent R&D investments had been affected in comparison with net sales and profits and how R&D investment were affected across industries and regions. The analysed enterprises reduced their net sales and profits to a greater extent than outlays on research and development, which confirms an anticyclical character of R&D activity in leading innovative enterprises. It has to be noted that in an analysed sample some companies significantly decreased outlays on R&D, however, there were some that increased these outlays in spite of worsening economic performance. Among investigated sectors the one that proved to be the most crisisresistant was the pharmaceuticals & biotechnology sector - classified as high technology, whereas the most crisis-prone one was the automotive sector. Nonetheless, the thesis that high tech industries are more crisis-resistant cannot be substantiated – outlays on research and development in the following sectors: computer production, office equipment, semiconductors, telecommunications equipment (technology hardware & equipment) – classified as high technology in 2009 were reduced in relation to year 2008. In an analysed group of enterprises the smallest "resistance" to crisis was observed in American companies. The enterprises from the EU also reduced research and development expenditures but the pace of a fall in these expenditures was smaller than in the case of American companies.
Functioning of the Clothing Networks on the Global Markets - Comparative Analysis
Authors: Malinowska-Olszowy Monika
Published: January 2012

The globalisation process contributes to shaping of many diverse consequences, among others it causes the internationalization of production, new, global division of work, increase of competitiveness, it builds the branches of a globalising business. From the point of view of economy, the phenomenon of globalisation influences the deepening of a free float of commodities, services, resources, capital, work, and also information between the countries. These factors significantly contribute to many changes that are visible in the operations of the latter-day enterprises (Penc 2003, p. 152). One of the consequences of the globalisation process, which is directly connected with the functioning of companies, is the necessity of building and managing the brand. As a result it creates many possibilities to global companies from the textile-clothing sector that want to achieve a market success. However, in order to achieve it one has to fulfill many, constantly increasing, expectations of the buyers. The realisation of these challenges is possible only with the share of two crucial factors: proper competitiveness and progressive marketing strategies. In the clothing sector the partnership networks are being created between the economic subject, because such actions are aimed at minimising the risk, as well as to reducing the production and distribution costs. The most often encountered networks in the textile-clothing branch are the franchising networks. The present article concentrates on the competitiveness aspect of the global clothing networks. A comparative analysis of the action of the commercial clothing networks was made, in order to show some features of its operation and proceeding, while focusing on the specified elements of the marketing-mix strategy. The obtained results allowed to show the differences and similarities in the used marketing strategies.
Conditions of the Development of Logistic Centers in Poland in the Context of European States Experiences
Authors: Kaźmierski Jan
Published: January 2012

Development and exploitation of logistic centers in Poland depends on many conditions. The most important ones are: localization, structuralorganizational, economical and legal conditions. The author makes a synthetic analysis of these conditions in the context of experiences of Western Europe states in this field. He gives the examples of solutions that function in high-profile countries, such as: Germany, Italy, Holland, Austria, France, England. The author pays attention to an import ant problem of the state`s engagement in development of logistic centers in Poland. The article is, for the most part, the aftermath of his own examinations carried out in years 2007-2010 and concerning logistic centers development conditioning.
Company Taxation in the European Union
Authors: Wawrzyniak Dorota
Published: January 2012

This paper investigates different measures of corporate tax burden ranging from the most basic ones such as the statutory tax rate to the effective tax rates. Each of these measures has advantages and disadvantages and they may lead to different rankings of countries. One of the reasons lies the fact that they measure different things. The comparison of the statutory tax rates to the effective ones for the EU-27 during the period of 1998-2009 sometimes reveals very significant differences between these indicators. Taking this into consideration, the paper suggests that corporate tax burden analysis should not be limited to the most basic and readily available measure in the form of the statutory tax rate. Different measures are tailored to answer different research questions. Moreover, the article presents changes of company taxation for the EU-27 within 1998-2009.
Earnings Management in Polish Companies
Authors: Brzeszczyński Janusz , Gajda Jerzy , Schabek Tomasz
Published: January 2012

This paper presents results of the investigation of a phenomenon known as "earnings management'' (EM) among the companies listed on the Polish stock market. The distribution of earnings per share (EPS) for the stocks around the threshold value of "zero" and the threshold of "recent performance" was analyzed in the period of years 1997-2010. Moreover, the changes of earnings for the stocks, which are suspected to manipulate their earnings, were also investigated. The results, which indicate asymmetric distribution of earnings around the zero threshold along with the relative deterioration of earnings in the year following the period when the companies were suspected to conduct earnings management practices, provide evidence that this phenomenon exists among Polish stock market companies.
Relationship between Quality and Performance: Tourism Companies in the Czech Republic
Authors: Sedláček Milan , Suchánek Petr , Špalek Jiří , Štamfestová Petra
Published: January 2012

Relationship between Quality and Performance: Tourism Companies in the Czech Republic

This article analyzes perception of quality as a factor of performance of companies operating in the tourism industry. The introduction defines business performance and quality with a focus on tourism companies. A synthesis of findings from empirical studies conducted abroad follows, and is focused on the determinants of performance of a company (success), including the quality management which emerged as one of the important factors, and so these findings justify the importance of quality management in business practice. The aim of this article is to find the perception of quality and emphasis on the quality management of tourism companies in the Czech Republic. To identify the specific characteristics of quality perception and management in this sector, comparative analysis of questionnaire results, and results of a financial analysis of companies from various sectors of the Czech economy, with emphasis on tourism, has been used. It has been proved that enterprises in the sectors surveyed perceive quality as the key factor in business performance; it was also empirically shown that companies with higher levels of service quality reach better values of financial indicators. Also it was found that although tourism companies perceive the service quality of as one of the key success factors, the level of its actual implementing is low. This is related to the fact that relatively good financial results can be achieved in this industry without adjustment of the maximum customer service. This fact is also confirmed by the findings that show that in comparison to companies in other sectors, tourism companies still perceive relationship between quality production and business performance as substandard.
Transformation in Poland
Authors: Žídek Libor
Published: January 2012

Transformation in Poland

The paper analyses transformation process in Poland between 1989 and 2004. The goal of the paper is to clarify the most important steps in the economic policy that were carried out in this period. The structure of the paper follows this general goal. We first of all analyse economic development of the country before the fall of the communist regime because this determined the whole following process. Then we shortly mention political development that had a significant impact on the transformation process, and its results. In the next part we concentrate on the main steps in the economic transformation, and consequently devote place to specific aspects - for example privatisation. The final part analyses the main economic indicators of this period. We conclude that the transformation process achieved its main economic goal and the economy's ability to grow increased.
Sustainability Analysis of Innovative Transport System
Authors: Meiere Ieva , Bazbauers Gatis
Published: January 2012

Sustainability Analysis of Innovative Transport System

The focus of the research is to develop a new approach to transport solution based on the use of a conveyortype system and to compare the environmental impact of the new system with the existing ones. The new transport system consists of a conveyor driven by an electric motor, with a wind power plant supplying electricity, hydrogen storage and a fuel cell for matching the wind power production with the motor load. The research tasks included the evaluation of the consumption of fossil fuels and the associated environmental impact of existing transport system and a comparison with energy consumption and associated environmental impact of the new system. The energy balance of the conveyor transport system was modelled on an hourly basis by using the EnergyPLAN computer program [1] which allows to analyze a combination of intermittent renewable energy technologies, storage and transport systems. The results show that the existing transport system has greater impact on the environment than the proposed one.
Characterization of Environmental Impact of Building Materials for the Purpose of Ecodesign
Authors: Skele Agnese , Repele Mara , Bazbauers Gatis
Published: January 2012

Characterization of Environmental Impact of Building Materials for the Purpose of Ecodesign

-The building material manufacturing sector is one of the sectors with the highest consumption of fossil fuel resources. The "cradle-to-gate" study of the ceramic bricks made in the Āne plant of JSC Lode, Latvia, is performed according to ISO standards 14044:2006. Life cycle inventory data have been collected at the factory site. Three different perspectives of the "Eco-Indicator'99" method are used to conduct an environmental characterization of the building materials to obtain the total impact indicator.
Assessment of Exergy for Renewable Energy Disposable in the Site of Building
Authors: Zekas Vygantas , Martinaitis Vytautas
Published: January 2012

Assessment of Exergy for Renewable Energy Disposable in the Site of Building

Future energy challenges to construct near zero energy buildings and to have a centralized network together with integrated distributed generation from local disposable renewable energy (LdRe) raises new goals of a complex approach to energy supply. In the context of the current scientific sector, a single comprehensive approach to the general LdRe is missing. Following the typical way, all buildings are planned or designed in light of the energy needs of the intended activities in the buildings and only after the determination of these activities are the points and forms of energy supply planned. This article presents another approach in the planning process - a building and its energy needs planning taking into account the LdRe. It also provides the universal system describing the quantity and quality of LdRe. This research includes LdRe flows' assessment, with the building, as LdRe energy user flows linking to the user only as a potential user of this energy. The exergy analysis method is used to determine the LdRe indicator. Actually determined main renewable energy (RE) flow' (solar, wind, soil and air) values are used for the calculations. Standard 1 ha land plot area and set volumes above the land surface and beneath it are analyzed. After determination of disposable RE flows exergy quantity of the exergy change in the period of half year, one typical month and day is depicted.
A comparison of immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization for the detection of porcine circovirus type 2 in pigs
Authors: Szczotka A. , Stadejek T. , Pejsak Z.
Published: January 2012

A comparison of immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization for the detection of porcine circovirus type 2 in pigs

The aim of this study was to develop and to optimize an immunohistochemistry (IHC) method for PCV2 identification and to compare it with an in situ hybridization (ISH) technique. The results demonstrated that both ISH and IHC successfully detected PCV2 viral antigens or nucleic acid in the examined tissues. Most of the slides identified previously in ISH as PCV2-positive were also positive in IHC. In the case of nearly half of the slides the results of IHC examination revealed an increase in the intensity of staining. IHC presented higher sensitivity and specificity than ISH. No negative impact of the time of paraffin block storage on ISH detection results was observed. In addition, IHC results were easier to interpret due to better image quality after staining. Overall results confirmed IHC was a reliable and useful technique for PMWS diagnosis.
The survey of wild birds for West Nile virus in Poland
Authors: Niczyporuk J. , Samorek-Salamonowicz E. , Kozdruń W. , Mizak Z.
Published: January 2012

The survey of wild birds for West Nile virus in Poland

Two thousand one hundred and forty birds belonging to 39 different species from different locations in Poland were examined. The study has taken place from the early spring till late autumn 2007-2010 when the activity of the mosquitoes was the highest. The brain samples were taken from the birds and whole cellular RNA was isolated, then the RT-PCR and NRT-PCR were performed to detect the presence of West Nile virus (WNV). The obtained results were confirmed by the commercial WNV Kit. No genetic material of WNV was found in the examined samples.
Root surface temperature rise of mandibular first molar during root canal filling with high-temperature thermoplasticized Gutta-Percha in the dog
Authors: Lipski M. , Woźniak K. , Lichota D. , Nowicka A.
Published: January 2012

Root surface temperature rise of mandibular first molar during root canal filling with high-temperature thermoplasticized Gutta-Percha in the dog

This in vitro study evaluated the temperature rise on the outer root surface of the mandibular first molar following root canal filling using the high-temperature, thermoplasticized, Gutta-Percha technique (HTTG) (BeeFill) in the dog. Twelve extracted dog mandibular first molars were used. After root canal preparation, the teeth were filled with thermoplasticized Gutta-Percha and root canal sealer. Temperature changes on the vestibular surfaces of the mesial and distal roots of mandibular first molars were measured using a thermal imaging camera. The results of this in vitro study showed that using HTTG to fill mandibular first molars in dogs produces a safe temperature rise on the root surface and, therefore, should not damage the periodontal ligament and/or surrounding tissues.
The influence of α-tocopherol supplementation on plasma concentration of this vitamin and insulin in sedentary or physically trained rats
Authors: Debski B. , Gralak M. , Gronowska-Senger A. , Gornicka M.
Published: January 2012

The influence of α-tocopherol supplementation on plasma concentration of this vitamin and insulin in sedentary or physically trained rats

Male young growing rats of Wistar strain (n=54) were fed a vitamin E deficient diet for 3 days of adaptation period and then 10 days of experimental period. After adaptation half of the rats ran, once per a day, on a treadmill with a rate of 2.0 m/s for 15 minutes for the following 10 days. Animals were given orally 0, 0.5, 1.0 or 4.0 mg/d/rat of α-tocopherol. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of physical training on tocopherol and insulin concentrations in the blood plasma of rats treated with different doses of vitamin E. The concentrations of α-tocopherol (HPLC-UV method used) and insulin (rat insulin specific RIA method used) were estimated in the blood plasma. Lower concentration of vitamin E in physically trained animals was observed, which may suggest increased needs of organisms for antioxidants, as a result of increased free radical production. In trained rats a lower concentration of plasma insulin was also observed. This effect is probably related to improvement in insulin action observed in organisms under physical exercise. The most significant impact on plasma α-tocopherol was due to its supplementation level. The treatment of rats with different doses of α-tocopherol was found to be not related to insulin concentration in plasma. A significant increase in feed conversion factor was noted in vitamin E treated animals. The obtained results suggest that the increased requirement of trained rats for antioxidants might be covered by α-tocopherol supple-mentation.
The influence of selected techniques of bovine leukocyte isolation on their viability and metabolism
Authors: Urban-Chmiel R. , Lisiecka U. , Chłopaś A. , Kurek Ł. , Wernicki A.
Published: January 2012

The influence of selected techniques of bovine leukocyte isolation on their viability and metabolism

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of selected isolation methods on the viability and metabolism of bovine leukocytes. The cells were isolated using a Ficoll 1077, Histopaque 1083 gradient and osmotic shock method, and Ficoll or Histopaque with osmotic shock. Evaluation were made of the total number of cells, viability after isolation and in 24h culture on RPMI 1640 medium and metabolism with NBT reduction assay. Microscopic and cytometric evaluation of the leukocytes revealed that the isolation methods applied had an influence on their number and viability. Based on the results it can be concluded that isolation methods of cells in a Histopaque or Ficoll yield highly pure cell fractions with high viability.
Retroviruses of wild and cultured fish
Authors: Lepa A. , Siwicki A.
Published: January 2012

Retroviruses of wild and cultured fish

Retroviruses comprise a large group of enveloped RNA viruses which have been found in a wide range of vertebrate species including fish. To date a number of fish retrovirus genomes have been partially or completely sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis and genome organization indicate a high diversity of fish retroviruses as well as some unique structural features that have not been found in any other retroviruses. Piscine retroviruses comprise both exogenous and endogenous viruses; most of them are associated with proliferative diseases. Because several of these proliferative diseases have a seasonal trend, they provide an excellent model for studying tumor development and regression. The aim of this work was to review the best-described fish retroviruses.
First record of Homalocephala biumbrata (Wahlberg, 1839) from Bohemia (Czech Republic), with notes on adult behaviour (Diptera: Ulidiidae)
Authors: Roháček Jindřich , Bílek Petr
Published: January 2012

First record of Homalocephala biumbrata (Wahlberg, 1839) from Bohemia (Czech Republic), with notes on adult behaviour (Diptera: Ulidiidae)

Homalocephala biumbrata (Wahlberg, 1839) (Ulidiidae) is a new addition to the fauna of Bohemia, based on records from the locality Na Plachtˇ reserve nr. Hradec Králové (E. Bohemia, Czech Republic). New biological and distributional data about this species are provided together with description of adult courtship behaviour (documented by photography). The importance of this record is discussed.
Lectotypification of Stipa czerepanovii (Poaceae)
Authors: Nobis Marcin , Gudkova Polina
Published: January 2012

Lectotypification of Stipa czerepanovii (Poaceae)

The paper presents lectotypification of Stipa czerepanovii Kotuch. described from the Zaisan basin (eastern Kazakstan). The material designated as the type of Stipa czerepanovii is deposited in the herbarium of the Komarov Institute of Botany, Russian Academy of Sciences (St.-Petersburg) and composed of three sheets. However, specimens on one of the sheets, represent other species of Stipa, and according the Viena code the lectotype should be designated.
Analysis of synanthropic vegetation in the territory of the city of Ostrava
Authors: Opálková Marie , Cimalová ˇárka
Published: January 2012

Analysis of synanthropic vegetation in the territory of the city of Ostrava

This paper is a result of the field research of synanthropic vegetation in the territory of the city of Ostrava in the summer of 2010 (June - August) and in the spring of 2011 (April). A total of 213 reléves were carried out in three types of habitats (borders of fields, ruderal areas and railway tracks). The reléves were transferred to the ‘Turboveg’ database computer programme and analyzed using the Expert system of vegetation of the Czech Republic (the ‘Coctail’ method) in the ‘Juice’ computer programme. This paper contains the evaluation of the occurrence of plant species in particular habitats and of the types of their synanthropy with special regard to endangered and invasive species. A total of 201 species of vascular plants were found, among them 134 apophytes. A total of 4 endangered species and 8 invasive species were found. A total of 5 classes, 15 alliances and 25 associations were found using the analysis of vegetation in the ‘Juice’ computer programme. Only 5 associations occurred in all studied types of habitats. The most common association was Convolvulo arvensis-Elytrigietum repentis.
Interesting records of fungus gnats (Diptera: Mycetophilidae) from the Krkonoˇe Mts (Czech Republic)
Authors: ˇevčík Jan
Published: January 2012

Interesting records of fungus gnats (Diptera: Mycetophilidae) from the Krkonoˇe Mts (Czech Republic)

Twelve species of Mycetophilidae are recorded from the Krkonoˇe Mts as new to Bohemia or the entire Czech Republic. The material was obtained in the years 2006-2009 mainly by means of Malaise traps. Three species are new to the Czech Republic: Mycomya collini Edwards, 1941, Leia martinovskyi ˇevčík & Papp, 2003 and Pseudexechia tuomikoskii Kjærandsen, 2009.
Gomphus pulchellus Sélys, 1840 does not belong to the dragonfly (Odonata) fauna of the Czech Republic
Authors: Jeziorski Petr , Holuˇa Otakar
Published: January 2012

Gomphus pulchellus Sélys, 1840 does not belong to the dragonfly (Odonata) fauna of the Czech Republic

Gomphus pulchellus is an unacceptable record from the Czech Republic in the past. This deciscion is based on the revision of the material deposited in all major Czech and Slovak museums, on the revision of several other dragonfly collections, as well as on an extensive faunistic research carried out by the authors during the last twenty years. In addition, the published data were critically evaluated. In summary, no documented specimen in museums or private collections was found, and there are no recent records from the Czech Republic. Hence deletion of G. pulchellus from the species list of the Czech Republic is suggested. Reasons for the absence in the Czech Republic are discussed.
Records of interesting flies (Diptera) attracted to meat baited pyramidal trap on sapping stump of European walnut (Juglans regia) in Central Bohemia (Czech Republic)
Authors: Barták Miroslav , Roháček Jindˇch
Published: January 2012

Records of interesting flies (Diptera) attracted to meat baited pyramidal trap on sapping stump of European walnut (Juglans regia) in Central Bohemia (Czech Republic)

A pyramidal trap with combined bait is described and illustrated. The trap inserted above sapping stump of European walnut (Juglans regia) in a site in Central Bohemia near Uhlířské Janovice in 2010 yielded a rich spectrum of flies (Diptera). Records of 24 species most interesting from the faunistic, biological and nature conservancy point of view are given with comments upon their distribution and biology but a number of other captured species are also mentioned. Besides species developing in or attracted as adults to sap runs [e.g. Syrphidae: Ceriana conopsoides (Linnaeus, 1758), Aulacigastridae: three Aulacigaster spp., various Drosophilidae], other important components were formed by saproxylic [Xylomyidae: Solva marginata (Meigen, 1820), some Stratiomyidae, many Lonchaeidae, Milichiidae: Milichia ludens (Wahlberg, 1847), some Muscidae], mycophagous (some Asteiidae, Sphaeroceridae, Drosophilidae), necrophagous (some Sepsidae, Acartophtalmidae, Milichiidae, Sphaeroceridae) and saprophagous (some Sepsidae, Carnidae, Milichiidae, Sphaeroceridae) species, both latter attracted to meat-bait used in the trap. Aulacigaster falcata Papp, 1998 is the first record from Bohemia.
A dark colour form of Cordulegaster heros (Odonata: Cordulegastridae)
Authors: Holuˇa Otakar
Published: January 2012

A dark colour form of Cordulegaster heros (Odonata: Cordulegastridae)

In July 2010 a dark colour form of the male of Cordulegaster heros was recorded at the Kamenný potok stream in the village of Modra-Piesok in the southern part of the Malé Karpaty Mts. in Slovakia. Differences between the typical colouring and the dark colour form are described.
New data to the vascular flora of the central Pamir Alai Mountains (Tajikistan, Central Asia). Part II
Authors: Nobis Marcin , Nowak Arkadiusz
Published: January 2012

New data to the vascular flora of the central Pamir Alai Mountains (Tajikistan, Central Asia). Part II

The paper presents the distributional data of three species: Amaranthus deflexus L., Euphorbia maculata L., Rubus praecox Bertol. s. l., new to the flora of the central Pamir Alai Mts in Tajikistan. A list of localities of the species in the Tajik Pamir Alai Mts and habitat preferences are presented. Their distribution is mapped and illustrations of the species are provided.
New records of Polyporivora picta (Meigen, 1830) from the Czech Republic and Greece with notes on its larval biology and distribution in Europe (Diptera: Platypezidae)
Authors: Tkoč Michal
Published: January 2012

New records of Polyporivora picta (Meigen, 1830) from the Czech Republic and Greece with notes on its larval biology and distribution in Europe (Diptera: Platypezidae)

Two new records of flat-footed fly Polyporivora picta (Meigen, 1830) (Diptera: Platypezidae) in the Czech Republic and Greece are documented. The distribution of this species in Europe is reviewed based on published records as well as new records presented here. The distributional map of Europe is presented. Larval biology of Polyporivora picta (Meigen, 1830) and rearing made from host fungus Trametes versicolor (L.) Lloyd. is commented and debated. The phenomenon of recent rediscovery of this species in Central and South Europe is discussed.
Recent findings of mosses from Orthotrichaceae family (Bryophyta) in the Czech part of the Western Carpathians. Part 1. The Moravskoslezské Beskydy Mts and its foothills
Authors: Pláˇek Vítˇzslav
Published: January 2012

Recent findings of mosses from Orthotrichaceae family (Bryophyta) in the Czech part of the Western Carpathians. Part 1. The Moravskoslezské Beskydy Mts and its foothills

Recent distribution of mosses within Orthotrichaceae family in Moravskoslezské Beskydy Mts and its foothill is done. Particularly interesting findings are briefly commented. Among others, findings of the threatened species, e.g. Orthotrichum patens, Zygodon rupestris, are presented.
Linear reaction norm models for genetic merit prediction of Angus cattle under genotype by environment interaction
Authors: Cardoso F. F. , Tempelman R. J.
Published: January 2012

The objectives of this work were to assess alternative linear reaction norm (RN) models for genetic evaluation of Angus cattle in Brazil. That is, we investigated the interaction between genotypes and continuous descriptors of the environmental variation to examine evidence of genotype by environment interaction (G×E) in post-weaning BW gain (PWG) and to compare the environmental sensitivity of national and imported Angus sires. Data were collected by the Brazilian Angus Improvement Program from 1974 to 2005 and consisted of 63,098 records and a pedigree file with 95,896 animals. Six models were implemented using Bayesian inference and compared using the Deviance Information Criterion (DIC). The simplest model was M1, a traditional animal model, which showed the largest DIC and hence the poorest fit when compared with the 4 alternative RN specifications accounting for G×E. In M2, a 2-step procedure was implemented using the contemporary group posterior means of M1 as the environmental gradient, ranging from −92.6 to +265.5 kg. Moreover, the benefits of jointly estimating all parameters in a 1-step approach were demonstrated by M3. Additionally, we extended M3 to allow for residual heteroskedasticity using an exponential function (M4) and the best fitting (smallest DIC) environmental classification model (M5) specification. Finally, M6 added just heteroskedastic residual variance to M1. Heritabilities were less at harsh environments and increased with the improvement of production conditions for all RN models. Rank correlations among genetic merit predictions obtained by M1 and by the best fitting RN models M3 (homoskedastic) and M5 (heteroskedastic) at different environmental levels ranged from 0.79 and 0.81, suggesting biological importance of G×E in Brazilian Angus PWG. These results suggest that selection progress could be optimized by adopting environment-specific genetic merit predictions. The PWG environmental sensitivity of imported North American origin bulls (0.046 ± 0.009) was significantly larger (P < 0.05) than that of local sires (0.012 ± 0.013). Moreover, PWG of progeny of imported sires exceeded that of native sires in medium and superior production levels. On the other hand, Angus cattle locally selected in Brazil tended to be more robust to environmental changes and hence be more suitable when production environments for potential progeny is uncertain.
The Recent Development of Organofluorine Chemistry in China: Asymmetric Construction of Stereogenic Trifluoromethyl-substituted Carbon Centers
Authors: Wen Lele , Shen Qilong , Lu Long
Published: January 2012

The stereospecific incorporation of the trifluoromethyl group into an organic compound has attracted considerable attention and significant progress has been achieved in the past decade. Scholars from China have also contributed greatly to this field, which is the subject of the current
review.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Fluorine-containing Compounds Using Organocatalysts
Authors: Ye Zhengqing , Zhao Gang
Published: January 2012

Asymmetric synthesis of fluorine-containing compounds using organocatalysts has been extensively investigated and several important strategies have been developed in the last decade. This review focuses on the recent advances in the introduction of the fluorine atom into organic molecules
by: i) electrophilic fluorination reactions; ii) the use of easily available fluorine-containing building blocks, both of interest in our research laboratory.
New Developments in Aromatic Halogenation, Borylation, and Cyanation
Authors: Qiu Di , Mo Fanyang , Zheng Zhitong , Zhang Yan , Wang Jianbo
Published: January 2012

Several green procedures have been developed for synthesizing functionalized aromatics: i) AuCl3-catalyzed halogenation of aromatic compounds, including aryl boronates; ii) Fe2O3-catalyzed direct aromatic C–H bond borylation; iii) Pd-catalyzed
direct cyanation of indoles; iv) direct conversion of arylamines to pinacol boronates.
Active Methylene-based Multicomponent Reactions under Microwave Heating
Authors: Jiang Bo , Tu Shu-Jiang
Published: January 2012

The use of emerging multicomponent reactions (MCRs) in conjunction with microwave (MW)-assisted chemistry techniques is dramatically reducing chemical waste and reaction times in several organic syntheses and chemical transformations. MW-assisted active methylene-based multicomponent
reactions serve as a rapid and efficient tool for the synthesis of versatile heterocycles, particularly those containing structural diversity and complexity via a one-pot operation. This minireview covers our recent advances on multicomponent reactions involving active methylene compounds
for the construction of bioactive molecule skeletons. In many cases, MW-assisted MCRs offer considerable improvements in selectivity, chemical yield and purity and constitutes a very simple and extremely rapid method to access a diverse range of heterocyclic motifs.
Self-supported Chiral Catalysts for Heterogeneous Asymmetric Catalysis
Authors: Guo Hongchao , Ding Kuiling
Published: January 2012

A conceptually new strategy for chiral catalyst immobilization, self-supported catalysts, in heterogeneous asymmetric catalysis is highlighted in the present article. Various homochiral metal-organic polymers with diverse structures have been designed and readily prepared through coordination
assembly of modular polytypic/polyfunctional ligands and metal ions without using any supports. These polymers have been successfully employed as chiral catalysts in a variety of heterogeneous asymmetric ractions, including hydrogenation, epoxidation, sulfoxidation, carbonyl-ene reactions,
diethylzinc addition, and Michael addition. The self-supported heterogeneous chiral catalysts showed activity and enanioselectivity comparable or even superior to those obtained with their corresponding homogeneous counterparts, and could be readily recovered and reused several times without
significant loss of activity or enantioslectivity.
Anion Recognition by Charge Neutral Electron-deficient Arene Receptors
Authors: Wang De-Xian , Wang Mei-Xiang
Published: January 2012

Anion-? interactions are newly emerging non-covalent interactions and have attracted considerable attention from both theoreticians and supramolecular chemists. This short review article summarizes the recent advances in anion recognition using charge neutral electron-deficient aromatic
compounds.
Chromatographic Fingerprinting Coupled with Chemometrics for Quality Control of Traditional Chinese Medicines
Authors: Liang Yi-zeng , Wang Wei-Ping
Published: January 2012

The holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is reflected by the integrity of the ingredients contained in herbal medicines, which creates a challenge in establishing quality control standards for raw materials and the standardization of finished herbal drugs because no
single component contributes to the total efficacy. Thus, the chromatographic fingerprinting technique of TCM has proved to be a comprehensive strategy for assessing the intact quality of herbal medicine, since the origin of the herbal medicines could be identified and classified based on
so-called phytoequivalence. On the other hand, chromatographic fingerprinting is essentially a high-throughput technique and an integral tool to explore the complexity of herbal medicines. In order to further control the comprehensive quality of TCMs, some strategies are proposed to trace
the chemical changes of chromatographic fingerprints both in product processing and/or after their administration by modern chromatographic techniques and chemometrics. Combined with the techniques developed in systems biology, it seems also possible to reveal the working mechanism of TCMs
and to further control their intrinsic quality.
Antitumor Cyclic Hexapeptides from Rubia Plants: History, Chemistry, and Mechanism (2005–2011)
Authors: Zhao Si Meng , Kuang Bin , Fan Jun Ting , Yan He , Xu Wen Yan , Tan Ning Hua
Published: January 2012

Rubiaceae-type cyclopeptides (RAs), cyclic hexapeptides from Rubia plants, have shown potential antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo. Based on the review about plant cyclopeptides (Chem. Rev., 2006, 106: 840), this mini-review will highlight new
progress on the discovery, synthesis, and mechanism of RAs isolated during 2005 to 2011, covering recent work in our group.
Advanced Research on cis-Neonicotinoids
Authors: Shao Xusheng , Ye Zhejun , Bao Haibo , Liu Zewen , Xu Xiaoyong , Li Zhong , Qian Xuhong
Published: January 2012

cis-Neonicotinoids are a type of neonicotinoid, in which the nitro or the cyano group are in cis-configuration relative to heteroaromatic moiety, which show excellent activities against a range of insect species. This review covers cis-neonicotinoids with commercialization
perspectives, structural optimization (phenylazoneonicotinoids and chlorothiazolyl analogues of Paichongding), modes of action studies, radiao-synthesis of Paichongding and Cycloxaprid, and photostability of neonicotinoids.
Protoporphyrinogen Oxidase Inhibitor: An Ideal Target for Herbicide Discovery
Authors: Hao Ge-Fei , Zuo Yang , Yang Sheng-Gang , Yang Guang-Fu
Published: January 2012

As the last common enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway leading to heme and chlorophyll, protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO; EC 1.3.3.4) is an ideal target for herbicide development. Currently, about 30 PPO inhibitors have been developed as agricultural herbicides. PPO inhibitors have displayed
environmentally benign, but advantageous characteristics, including low toxicity, low effective concentration, broad herbicidal spectrum (active against both monocotyledon and dicotyledon weeds), quick onset of action, and long lasting effect. Over the last several years, great achievements
have been made in revealing the structural biology of PPO. Five PPO crystal structures, four isolated in enzyme-inhibitor complexes and one in the native form, have been determined, including those from Nicotiana tabacum, Myxococcus Xanthus, Bacillus subtilis, and human. Although PPO
inhibitors have been developed for over forty years, we continue to uncover exciting future prospects for novel PPO-inhibiting herbicides. In this review, we have summarized the structures of PPOs from plants, human, and bacteria; the interactions between PPOs and inhibitors; the quantitative
structure–activity relationships of PPO inhibitors; and the molecular design of new PPO inhibitors.
Les incertitudes identitaires de la famille contemporaine – L'apport des objets flottants
Authors: Caillé Philippe
Published: January 2012

Résumé Les multiples aspects que peut revêtir aujourd’hui ce que nous dénommons « famille » implique que la famille contemporaine est aujourd’hui plus ambitieuse d’innover que de transmettre. Son identité plus incertaine se basera ainsi sur un « récit fondateur » à découvrir et éventuellement à transmettre. Les neurosciences nous ont récemment fait connaître, en particulier par la découverte des « neurones miroirs », comment un tel récit pouvait se construire, dans la synergie des interactions, par l’assemblage d’« engrammes relationnels » appartenant à l’identité profonde de chacun des membres de la famille. Les « objets flottants », en tant que méthodes d’exploration analogique, nous paraissent exceptionnellement utiles pour révéler aux yeux de la famille comme à ceux de l’intervenant la nature de ces « racines incarnées » d’où prend nécessairement naissance ce qui est actuellement leur « récit fondateur », leur permettant dans les meilleurs cas de se réconcilier avec celui qui gère actuellement leur relation ou de s’en inventer un autre, plus favorable, dans un processus commun de co-création.
Le sens de la famille, le nous et le lien
Authors: Eiguer Alberto
Published: January 2012

Résumé L’auteur propose une réflexion sur ce qui, selon lui, constitue le sens de la famille : sa raison d’exister ; au-delà d’une conception de la famille comme agrégat d’individu, il tente d’en cerner le sens à partir de l’enchevêtrement complexe de liens intersubjectifs et trans-subjectifs tissés entre ses membres actuels et ceux des générations antérieures.
Dessinez-nous une nouvelle famille
Authors: Vander Borght Christine
Published: January 2012

Résumé Au départ d’une situation familiale, l’auteure énonce quelques éléments constitutifs des épreuves à franchir pour constituer une « nouvelle » famille, différente de celles que l’on a connues, que ce soit au regard des familles d’origine ou à partir de l’expérience des premiers essais de construction d’une famille à soi. À travers la complexité des processus de recomposition, ces nouveaux assemblages révèlent toutes les embûches et toutes les promesses de ces aventures humaines qui nous concernent de très près.
Une jeunesse comblée dans l'impasse : étude des enjeux individuels et familiaux de l'autonomisation en milieux aisés
Authors: Legendre Sandra , de Coster Lotta , Duret Isabelle
Published: January 2012

Résumé Les auteurs analysent les difficultés que rencontrent aujourd’hui certains jeunes de milieux aisés au niveau de la construction de leur(s) projet(s) de vie à partir d’études de cas. L’objectif principal de la recherche est de comprendre les processus psychiques individuels et familiaux qui sous-tendent ces difficultés. À partir d’entretiens réalisés avec 18 post-adolescents, les auteurs se penchent sur les particularités des systèmes familiaux de ces jeunes en lien avec leur processus d’autonomisation. La fonction des interruptions ou des « mises à l’arrêt » dans le mouvement vers l’autonomie est également questionnée. Elle permet de mettre en lumière l’impact a priori entravant mais paradoxalement salutaire de ces arrêts, vécus pour cette jeunesse « comblée dans l’impasse » comme une source de souffrance mais aussi comme une sorte de tremplin nécessaire permettant l’accès à l’individuation et à la subjectivation.
Les enfants absents dans le contexte de l'exil
Authors: Duterte Pierre
Published: January 2012

Résumé Les réfugiés ont un point commun dans leur histoire : leur départ n’a pas été préparé, a eu lieu dans l’urgence de la survie, Le trajet migratoire s’est fait le plus souvent dans des conditions épouvantables d’insécurité, de mise en danger. Très souvent, les familles sont arrivées incomplètes du fait d’enfants laissés au pays, disparus en route, morts. L’absence de l’enfant est une douleur indescriptible et souvent indicible. Il s’instaure donc une nouvelle règle qui est le silence. Cette règle familiale s’applique aux parents, aux enfants arrivés dans le pays d’asile mais aussi aux enfants nés en exil. Parler des enfants absents met en danger. Le thérapeute se retrouve souvent dans une position délicate devant "l’insupportabilité" de la situation. Parfois, le traumatisme de la disparition accolée à la violence et aux traumatismes vécus par les membres de la famille font que le thérapeute pourrait être tenté, lui aussi, d’appliquer la nouvelle règle, celle du silence.
Accompagnement d'une famille dont l'un des membres présente une maladie dans sa phase terminale
Authors: Fouilleron Véronique , Mauriac Frédéric , Stéphant Philippe
Published: January 2012

Résumé L’impact de la maladie cancéreuse sur la dynamique familiale concerne à la fois ses aspects interpersonnels, fonctionnels et émotionnels. Cet article a pour objectif de réfléchir à la façon d’aider une famille dont le poids des enjeux de mort est à risque de paralyser l’ensemble du système thérapeutique. Après discussion sur les interactions entre maladie cancéreuse et perturbations psychosociales, nous présenterons un cas clinique qui illustre la manière dont, dans ce contexte, des dysfonctionnements relationnels peuvent être exacerbés d’une part, et la manière dont la crise peut constituer un levier thérapeutique d’autre part.
Le paradigme systémique : approche Intersubjective-Narrative versus approche Relationnelle-Générationnelle
Authors: Cigoli Vittorio , Scabini Eugenia
Published: January 2012

Résumé Après avoir discuté de deux approches différentes – intersubjective-narrative et relationnelle-générationnelle – se référant au paradigme systémique, les auteurs présentent le modèle relationnel-symbolique qu’ils ont développé au cours d’une recherche et d’une pratique s’étendant sur plus de vingt ans. Ils y conçoivent le « système familial » comme une unité multiplex au sein de laquelle figure la co-présence du « corps familial » et de ses parties (membres et leurs croyances, intentions et sentiments).
Cyanobacteria: Pioneers of Planet Earth
Authors: Kulasooriya SA
Published: January 2012

Cyanobacteria are among the earliest of inhabitants of Planet Earth and their existence can be traced back to 3.8 billion years. Their oxygenic photosynthesis led to the gradual conversion of the Earth‟s atmosphere from an anaerobic to an aerobic one. This change enabled the advent of aerobic organisms that eventually underwent rapid evolution and became the dominant, highly diverse members of the current global biodiversity. Cyanobacteria are ubiquitous in their distribution and are found in all the latitudes from Arctic and Anatarctic regions to the Tropical deserts perhaps reflecting their pioneering habitation of the primitive earth. They are also unique in their ability to simultaneously perform oxygenic photosynthesis and oxygen labile nitrogen fixation. Through these processes they make significant contributions to the Carbon and Nitrogen bio-geochemical cycles, particularly in the deep oceans. The ability of these organisms to fix N2 either independently or in symbiosis with other organisms not only contributes to natural ecosystems but is applied in certain countries particularly for rice cultivation. Their ability to grow in highly polluted environments is also used in the treatment of sewage and industrial effluents. Cyanobacteria are the most efficient among all living organisms in the harvesting of solar energy and are currently looked at as highly attractive candidates for biofuel production. A few species are being used for the production of highly nutritive food supplements. On the negative side, some cyanobacteria form massive growths called „blooms‟ in water bodies and many of them produce toxins harmful to fish, digastric animals and are suspected to be responsible for certain human ailments. Having reviewed most of these aspects of cyanobacteria, it is concluded that knowledge on these little known organisms would be invaluable not only for students, scientists and environmentalists but also for industrialists and policy makers. Key words: cyanobacteria; blue-green algae; algal toxins; biofertilizers; biofuelsDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/cjsbs.v40i2.3925 CJSBS 2011; 40(2): 71-88