bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helminth Fauna of Roe Deer (Capreolus Capreolus) in Ukraine: Biodiversity and Parasite Community
Authors: Kuzmina T. , Kharchenko V. , Malega A.
Published: March 2010

Helminth Fauna of Roe Deer (Capreolus Capreolus) in Ukraine: Biodiversity and Parasite Community

The results of survey of helminth species diversity of roe deer (Capreolus capreolusLinnaeus, 1758) from nine regions of Ukraine are presented. Ninety-two roe deer from Chernigivska, Zhytomyrska, Kyivska, Vinnytska, Rivnenska, Ternopilska, Khmelnitska, Sumska and Cherkasska regions were examined by the partial helminthological dissection. Totally 30,753 helminth specimens were collected and identified by morphological criteria. Prevalence of roe deer infection with helminths was 92.4%. Sixteen helminth species (1 of the Class Trematoda, 2 — of Cestoda and 13 — of Nematoda) were found.Setaria cervi(prevalence — 10.9%) was found in visceral cavity.Dictyocaulus eckerti(6.9%) andD. capreolus(2.3%) was found in lungs.Taenia hydatigenalarvae (2.3%) were found in mesentery.Paramfistomum cervi(10.9%),Haemonchus contortus(57.6%),Ashworthius sidemi(40.2%),Marshallagia marshalli(15.2%),Nematodirus oiratinus(1.1%),Trichostrongylus axei(3.3%) were found in stomach.Moniesia expansa(1.1%),Bunostomum phlebotomum(10.9%) were found in small intestine.Trichocephalus ovis(18.5%),Oesophagostomum venulosum(7.6%) andO. dentatum(1.1%) were found in caecum.Chabertia ovina(28.3%) was found in large intestine. Forty-four helminth associations were separated in the roe deer examined.
Records of the Grassflies (Diptera, Chloropidae) of the Palaearchearctic Geoelement on the Altai Mountains
Authors: Nartshuk E.
Published: March 2010

Records of the Grassflies (Diptera, Chloropidae) of the Palaearchearctic Geoelement on the Altai Mountains

Four species of grassflies (Diptera, Chloropidae),Lasiambia shatalkiniNartshuk, 1986,Siphunculina stackelbergiDuda, 1933,Centorisoma flavumNartshuk, 1965, andCetema bispinosaDuda, 1933 are found on the Altai Mountains. These species were hitherto known from the Far East of Russia and the latter also from North Mongolia. The new records clarify the western border of ranges of these species. Distribution of the generaCentorisomaBecker, 1910 andCetemaHendel, 1907, each including in the Palaearctic two groups of species with centres of distribution in Europe and the Far East, permits to consider the origin of these genera from Tertiary Turgai forests.
Flexicurity - Challenge to Improve Czech Labour Market
Authors: Potužáková Zuzana
Published: March 2010

Flexicurity - Challenge to Improve Czech Labour Market

Flexicurity reflects the current basic trend of the EU in guaranteeing high employment levels and attainability of national fiscal systems. It was introduced in Denmark in the 1990s and significantly helped reduce unemployment levels. The Czech labour market, despite the transformation process, has still space for further improvement, especially in the time of economic slow-down. The best way is to try to apply elements and components which have been already successfully implemented in the other EU Member States. The aim of the paper is (based on the statistical indicators and official documents concerning labour markets topic) to describe the basic function of the model and find the components of the flexicurity model which could be used also in the Czech Republic and change labour market operation.
Do As I Do: Exercise Habits of Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, and Student Physical Therapists
Authors: Chevan Julia , Haskvitz Esther M.
Published: March 2010

Background

Physical therapy practitioners are among the many health care professionals who can counsel their patients to address the public health care concern of physical inactivity. Health care providers who are physically active themselves are more likely to counsel patients on the benefits of activity.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to examine the leisure-time physical activity habits of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and student physical therapists in the United States using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and American College of Sports Medicine (CDC-ACSM) recommendations and (2) to compare these habits with those of the general population and other health care professionals.

Design

A cross-sectional survey design was used.

Methods

There were 2 data sources. A random sample of American Physical Therapy Association members completed an online survey that included questions about physical activity habits worded in same manner as the leisure-time activities section of the 2005 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). The final study sample comprised 1,238 participants: 923 physical therapists, 210 student physical therapists, and 105 physical therapist assistants. The 2005 NHIS public use data files were the source for the same information about the general US population and for a subset of health care professionals. Rates of participation in vigorous and moderate physical activity were analyzed.

Results

Physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and student physical therapists exercised at higher rates than adults and health-diagnosing professionals in the 2005 NHIS.

Limitations

The study may be limited by sampling and response bias.

Conclusions

This study identified that physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and student physical therapists are meeting CDC-ACSM physical activity guidelines at higher rates than the US adult population and health-diagnosing professionals. These rates exceed the physical activity targets set for adults in Healthy People 2010.
Ulcer diseases in cultured fish in Mymensingh and surrounding districts
Authors: Muniruzzaman M , Chowdhury MBR
Published: March 2010

The status of ulcer diseases in cultured fish in 14 upazilas (sub-districts) of Mymensingh and surrounding six districts were investigated during the winter in 2001-2002 and 2002-2003. Fish were visibly affected by ulcer diseases including epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS). Prevalence of disease varied in different districts, months and fish species in the two years. The highest prevalence of disease was in Jamalpur district where 90% fish ponds in Melandah upazila were affected during 2001-2002, whereas 80% affected ponds were observed in sadar upazila of Mymensingh district during 2002-2003. The highest prevalence was in January and the lowest in October. The prevalence of ulcer diseases in different fish species varied significantly (p<0.01). Among the 10 affected species, six were histopathologically EUS-positive and four EUS-negatives. Cirrhinus cirrhosus and Barbodes gonionotus were highly affected by ulcer diseases including EUS. DOI: 10.3329/bvet.v25i1.4617 Bangl. vet. 2008. Vol. 25, No. 1, 40-49
Performance of broilers fed water-soluble blood meal during growing and finishing period
Authors: Habib MA , Shahidullah M , Ali MA
Published: March 2010

The effect of water-soluble blood meal was tested on the performance of broilers. Forty broiler chickens aged 21 days were reared on slatted floor and the dietary treatments were T0, T1, T2 and T3 where 0, 0.25, 0.50 and 0.75 g blood meal was given/L drinking water, respectively. The blood meal significantly enhanced the growth and feed conversion efficiency. The weight gain and net profit was significantly (p<0.001) higher in chickens with 0.25g/L blood meal in water. It is suggested that blood meal at 0.25g/L may be used in drinking water during growing and finishing period of broilers for better performance. DOI: 10.3329/bvet.v26i1.4625 Bangl. vet. 2009. Vol. 26, No. 1, 8-12
Methods of drying beef and buffalo meat on meat quality
Authors: Malek MA , Hossain MM , Islam R , Akhter S
Published: March 2010

Effects of method of drying beef and buffalo meat and storage time on quality were investigated. Six treatments were applied: drying beef with salt (B1), drying beef without salt (B2), drying beef with salt and spices (B3), drying buffalo meat with salt (B4), without salt (B5) and with salt and spices (B6). Taste and smell of all samples were acceptable up to 120 days of storage. The dry matter (DM), protein, ether extract (EE) and ash content decreased with storage time. The initial DM, crude protein (CP), EE and ash content of the samples were 92.1-95.2%, 77.0-78.6%, 5.0-6.5%, 8.0-12.8%, respectively. After 120 days of storage DM, CP, EE and ash content of the samples ranged from 87.8-89.1%, 72.9-74.0%, 5.0-5.9%, 7.4-9.7%, respectively. CP and EE percentage in beef was higher than buffalo meat, but beef contained less DM and ash. At the end of storage beef dried with salt contained highest protein (74.0%) and buffalo meat dried without salt contained lowest protein (73.0%). There was a significant (p<0.05 to 0.01) effect of drying method, salt and spices in beef and buffalo meat. With the elapse of storage time quality of meat degraded significantly (p<0.05 to 0.01). The degradation was lower in beef dried with salt than in beef dried without salt beef or beef dried with salt and spices, and buffalo meat. It is suggested that salt drying may be a useful method of meat preservation. DOI: 10.3329/bvet.v26i1.4629 Bangl. vet. 2009. Vol. 26, No. 1, 31-38
Increased Level of Phosphorylated ShcA Measured by Chemiluminescence-Linked Immunoassay Is a Predictor of Good Prognosis in Primary Breast Cancer Expressing Low Levels of Estrogen Receptor
Authors: Cicenas Jonas , Küng Willy , Eppenberger Urs , Eppenberger-Castori Serenella
Published: March 2010

The SH2 domain-containing adaptor protein ShcA is a proto-oncogene involved in growth factor receptor signaling. The role of phosphorylated ShcA is to link receptor tyrosine kinases with the SH2-containing adaptor protein Grb2, thus facilitating signal transduction from receptor tyrosine kinases to Ras, leading to MAPK activation. The present study was designed to investigate the prognostic significance of phosphorylated ShcA in primary breast cancer and its association in the interactions between the ER and ErbB2 pathways. Using a two-site chemiluminescence-linked immunosorbent assay, we detected the quantitative expression levels of total tyrosine- and threonine-phosphorylated ShcA in cytosol fractions obtained from fresh frozen tissue samples of 153 selected primary breast cancer patients. ShcA phosphorylation was not associated with nodal status, estrogen receptor (ER) status or grading. High levels of both tyrosine (pYShcA) and serine (pSShcA) phosphorylated ShcA correlated with good prognosis (p < 0.01), with respect to both disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS). In addition, pShcA levels were found to correlate with threonine-phosphorylated ErbB2 and inversely with phosphorylated Akt (pAkt), as well as ErbB2 and ER expression levels. Our findings demonstrate that ShcA activation in primary breast cancer patients correlates with low levels of ER, and is associated with good prognosis.
Biology of Human Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Elias Elias , Hasskamp Joanne , Sharma Bhuvnesh
Published: March 2010

A review of the natural behavior of cutaneous melanoma, clinical and pathological factors, prognostic indicators, some basic research and the present and possible futuristic strategies in the management of this disease are presented. While surgery remains to be the most effective therapeutic approach in the management of early primary lesions, there is no standard adjuvant therapy after surgical resection, or for metastatic disease.
Relaxation Processes and the Maximum Entropy Production Principle
Authors: Županović Paško , Botrić Srećko , Juretić Davor , Kuić Domagoj
Published: March 2010

Spontaneous transitions of an isolated system from one macroscopic state to another (relaxation processes) are accompanied by a change of entropy. Following Jaynes’ MaxEnt formalism, it is shown that practically all the possible microscopic developments of a system, within a fixed time interval, are accompanied by the maximum possible entropy change. In other words relaxation processes are accompanied by maximum entropy production.
Negentropy Generation and Fractality in the Dry Friction of Polished Surfaces
Authors: Fleurquin Pablo , Fort Hugo , Kornbluth Mordechai , Sandler Roman , Segall Mordecai , Zypman Fredy
Published: March 2010

We consider the Robin Hood model of dry friction to study entropy transfer during sliding. For the polished surface (steady state) we study the probability distribution of slips and find an exponential behavior for all the physically relevant asperity interaction-distance thresholds. In addition, we characterize the time evolution of the sample by its spatial fractal dimension and by its entropy content. Starting from an unpolished surface, the entropy decreases during the Robin Hood process, until it reaches a plateau; thereafter the system fluctuates above the critical height. This validates the notion that friction increases information in the neighborhood of the contacting surface at the expense of losing information in remote regions. We explain the practical relevance of these results for engineering surface processing such as honing.
Different Senses of Entropy—Implications for Education
Authors: Haglund Jesper , Jeppsson Fredrik , Strömdahl Helge
Published: March 2010

A challenge in the teaching of entropy is that the word has several different senses, which may provide an obstacle for communication. This study identifies five distinct senses of the word ‘entropy’, using the Principled Polysemy approach from the field of linguistics. A semantic network is developed of how the senses are related, using text excerpts from dictionaries, text books and text corpora. Educational challenges such as the existence of several formal senses of entropy and the intermediary position of entropy as disorder along the formal/non-formal scale are presented using a two-Dimensional Semiotic/semantic Analysing Schema (2-D SAS).
Recovering Matrices of Economic Flows from Incomplete Data and a Composite Prior
Authors: Fernández-Vázquez Esteban
Published: March 2010

In several socioeconomic applications, matrices containing information on flows-trade, income or migration flows, for example–are usually not constructed from direct observation but are rather estimated, since the compilation of the information required is often extremely expensive and time-consuming. The estimation process takes as point of departure another matrix which is adjusted until it optimizes some divergence criterion and simultaneously is consistent with some partial information-row and column margins–of the target matrix. Among all the possible criteria to be considered, one of the most popular is the Kullback-Leibler divergence [1], leading to the well-known Cross-Entropy technique. This paper proposes the use of a composite Cross-Entropy approach that allows for introducing a mixture of two types of a priori information–two possible matrices to be included as point of departure in the estimation process. By means of a Monte Carlo simulation experiment, we will show that under some circumstances this approach outperforms other competing estimators. Besides, a real-world case with a matrix of interregional trade is included to show the applicability of the suggested technique.
Information and Signs: The Language of Images
Authors: Semetsky Inna
Published: March 2010

Since time immemorial, philosophers and scientists were searching for a “machine code” of the so-called Mentalese language capable of processing information at the pre-verbal, pre-expressive level. In this paper I suggest that human languages are only secondary to the system of primitive extra-linguistic signs which are hardwired in humans and serve as tools for understanding selves and others; and creating meanings for the multiplicity of experiences. The combinatorial semantics of the Mentalese may find its unorthodox expression in the semiotic system of Tarot images, the latter serving as the ”keys” to the encoded proto-mental information. The paper uses some works in systems theory by Erich Jantsch and Erwin Laszlo and relates Tarot images to the archetypes of the field of collective unconscious posited by Carl Jung. Our subconscious beliefs, hopes, fears and desires, of which we may be unaware at the subjective level, do have an objective compositional structure that may be laid down in front of our eyes in the format of pictorial semiotics representing the universe of affects, thoughts, and actions. Constructing imaginative narratives based on the expressive “language” of Tarot images enables us to anticipate possible consequences and consider a range of future options. The thesis advanced in this paper is also supported by the concept of informational universe of contemporary cosmology.
Thermodynamic and Differential Entropy under a Change of Variables
Authors: Hnizdo Vladimir , Gilson Michael K.
Published: March 2010

The differential Shannon entropy of information theory can change under a change of variables (coordinates), but the thermodynamic entropy of a physical system must be invariant under such a change. This difference is puzzling, because the Shannon and Gibbs entropies have the same functional form. We show that a canonical change of variables can, indeed, alter the spatial component of the thermodynamic entropy just as it alters the differential Shannon entropy. However, there is also a momentum part of the entropy, which turns out to undergo an equal and opposite change when the coordinates are transformed, so that the total thermodynamic entropy remains invariant. We furthermore show how one may correctly write the change in total entropy for an isothermal physical process in any set of spatial coordinates.
Gas Turbine Combustion and Ammonia Removal Technology of Gasified Fuels
Authors: Hasegawa Takeharu
Published: March 2010

From the viewpoints of securing a stable supply of energy and protecting our global environment in the future, the integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power generation of various gasifying methods has been introduced in the world. Gasified fuels are chiefly characterized by the gasifying agents and the synthetic gas cleanup methods and can be divided into four types. The calorific value of the gasified fuel varies according to the gasifying agents and feedstocks of various resources, and ammonia originating from nitrogenous compounds in the feedstocks depends on the synthetic gas clean-up methods. In particular, air-blown gasified fuels provide low calorific fuel of 4 MJ/m3 and it is necessary to stabilize combustion. In contrast, the flame temperature of oxygen-blown gasified fuel of medium calorie between approximately 9–13 MJ/m3 is much higher, so control of thermal-NOx emissions is necessary. Moreover, to improve the thermal efficiency of IGCC, hot/dry type synthetic gas clean-up is needed. However, ammonia in the fuel is not removed and is supplied into the gas turbine where fuel-NOx is formed in the combustor. For these reasons, suitable combustion technology for each gasified fuel is important. This paper outlines combustion technologies and combustor designs of the high temperature gas turbine for various IGCCs. Additionally, this paper confirms that further decreases in fuel-NOx emissions can be achieved by removing ammonia from gasified fuels through the application of selective, non-catalytic denitration. From these basic considerations, the performance of specifically designed combustors for each IGCC proved the proposed methods to be sufficiently effective. The combustors were able to achieve strong results, decreasing thermal-NOx emissions to 10 ppm (corrected at 16% oxygen) or less, and fuel-NOx emissions by 60% or more, under conditions where ammonia concentration per fuel heating value in unit volume was 2.4 × 102 ppm/(MJ/m3) or higher. Consequently, principle techniques for combustor design for each IGCC were established by the present analytical and experimental research. Also, this paper contains some findings of the author’s previously published own works and engages in wide-ranging discussion into the future development of gasification technologies.
Markup in Engineering Design: A Discourse
Authors: Ding Lian , Liu Shaofeng
Published: March 2010

Today’s engineering companies are facing unprecedented competition in a global market place. There is now a knowledge intensive shift towards whole product lifecycle support, and collaborative environments. It has become particularly important to capture information, knowledge and experiences about previous design and following stages during their product lifecycle, so as to retrieve and reuse such information in new and follow-on designs activities. Recently, with the rapid development and adoption of digital technologies, annotation and markup are becoming important tools for information communication, retrieval and management. Such techniques are being increasingly applied to an array of applications and different digital items, such as text documents, 2D images and 3D models. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of recent research in markup for engineering design, including a number of core markup languages and main markup strategies. Their applications and future utilization in engineering design, including multi-viewpoint of product models, capture of information and rationale across the whole product lifecycle, integration of engineering design processes, and engineering document management, are comprehensively discussed.
The Influence of Priming on Reference States
Authors: Matthey Astrid
Published: March 2010

Experimental and empirical evidence shows that the utility an individual derives from a certain state depends on the reference state she compares it to. According to economic theory, the reference state is determined by past, present and future outcomes of either the individual herself or her reference group. The experiment described in this paper suggests that, in addition, reference states depend to a significant degree on environmental factors not relevant for outcomes. It indicates that reference states - and hence utility - can relatively easily be influenced without changing people’s outcomes, e.g., through priming.
GIS and Injury Prevention and Control: History, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Bell Nathaniel , Schuurman Nadine
Published: March 2010

Intentional and unintentional injury is the leading cause of death and potential years of life lost in the first four decades of life in industrialized countries around the world. Despite surgical innovations and improved access to emergency care, research has shown that certain populations remain particularly vulnerable to the risks and consequences of injury. Recent evidence has shown that the analytical, data linkage, and mapping tools of geographic information systems (GIS) technology provide can further address these determinants and identify populations in need. This paper traces the history of injury prevention and discusses current and future challenges in furthering our understanding of the determinants of injury through the use of GIS.
Climate Change and Health in British Columbia: Projected Impacts and a Proposed Agenda for Adaptation Research and Policy
Authors: Ostry Aleck , Ogborn Malcolm , Bassil Kate L. , Takaro Tim , Allen Diana M.
Published: March 2010

This is a case study describing how climate change may affect the health of British Columbians and to suggest a way forward to promote health and policy research, and adaptation to these changes. After reviewing the limited evidence of the impacts of climate change on human health we have developed five principles to guide the development of research and policy to better predict future impacts of climate change on health and to enhance adaptation to these change in BC. We suggest that, with some modification, these principles will be useful to policy makers in other jurisdictions.
Stress Recovery during Exposure to Nature Sound and Environmental Noise
Authors: Alvarsson Jesper J. , Wiens Stefan , Nilsson Mats E.
Published: March 2010

Research suggests that visual impressions of natural compared with urban environments facilitate recovery after psychological stress. To test whether auditory stimulation has similar effects, 40 subjects were exposed to sounds from nature or noisy environments after a stressful mental arithmetic task. Skin conductance level (SCL) was used to index sympathetic activation, and high frequency heart rate variability (HF HRV) was used to index parasympathetic activation. Although HF HRV showed no effects, SCL recovery tended to be faster during natural sound than noisy environments. These results suggest that nature sounds facilitate recovery from sympathetic activation after a psychological stressor.
Leg Length, Body Proportion, and Health: A Review with a Note on Beauty
Authors: Bogin Barry , Varela-Silva Maria Inês
Published: March 2010

Decomposing stature into its major components is proving to be a useful strategy to assess the antecedents of disease, morbidity and death in adulthood. Human leg length (femur + tibia), sitting height (trunk length + head length) and their proportions, for example, (leg length/stature), or the sitting height ratio (sitting height/stature × 100), among others) are associated with epidemiological risk for overweight (fatness), coronary heart disease, diabetes, liver dysfunction and certain cancers. There is also wide support for the use of relative leg length as an indicator of the quality of the environment for growth during infancy, childhood and the juvenile years of development. Human beings follow a cephalo-caudal gradient of growth, the pattern of growth common to all mammals. A special feature of the human pattern is that between birth and puberty the legs grow relatively faster than other post-cranial body segments. For groups of children and youth, short stature due to relatively short legs (i.e., a high sitting height ratio) is generally a marker of an adverse environment. The development of human body proportions is the product of environmental x genomic interactions, although few if any specific genes are known. The HOXd and the short stature homeobox-containing gene (SHOX) are genomic regions that may be relevant to human body proportions. For example, one of the SHOX related disorders is Turner syndrome. However, research with non-pathological populations indicates that the environment is a more powerful force influencing leg length and body proportions than genes. Leg length and proportion are important in the perception of human beauty, which is often considered a sign of health and fertility.
Potential Effects of Chrysin on MDA-MB-231 Cells
Authors: Hong Teh Ban , Rahumatullah Anizah , Yogarajah Thaneswary , Ahmad Maimunah , Yin Khoo Boon
Published: March 2010

This study aims to elucidate the effects of chrysin on human ER-negative breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231. The study demonstrated that treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with 20 µM chysin for 48 h significantly inhibited the growth of MDA-MB-231 cells and induced cytoplasmic lipid accumulation in the cells, but that the observed of cell death was not caused by apoptosis. The expression of PPARalpha mRNA in chrysin-treated MDA-MB-231 cells was significantly increased, which was likely associated to the proliferation of the cells post chrysin treatment.
Stem Cell Tracking by Nanotechnologies
Authors: Villa Chiara , Erratico Silvia , Razini Paola , Fiori Fabrizio , Rustichelli Franco , Torrente Yvan , Belicchi Marzia
Published: March 2010

Advances in stem cell research have provided important understanding of the cell biology and offered great promise for developing new strategies for tissue regeneration. The beneficial effects of stem cell therapy depend also by the development of new approachs for the track of stem cells in living subjects over time after transplantation. Recent developments in the use of nanotechnologies have contributed to advance of the high-resolution in vivo imaging methods, including positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission tomography (SPECT), magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and X-Ray computed microtomography (microCT). This review examines the use of nanotechnologies for stem cell tracking.
Tyrosinase-Expressing Neuronal Cell Line as in Vitro Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Hasegawa Takafumi
Published: March 2010

Oxidized metabolites of dopamine known as dopamine quinone derivatives are thought to play a pivotal role in the degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson’s disease. Although such quinone derivatives are usually produced via the autoxidation of catecholamines, tyrosinase, which is a key enzyme in melanin biosynthesis via the production of DOPA and subsequent molecules, can potentially accelerate the induction of catecholamine quinone derivatives by its oxidase activity. We have developed neuronal cell lines in which the expression of human tyrosinase was inducible. Overexpression of tyrosinase resulted in increased intracellular dopamine content in association with the formation of melanin pigments in neuronal somata, which eventually causes apoptotic cell death. This cellular model will provide a useful tool for detailed analyses of the neurotoxicity of oxidized catechol metabolites.
Evolutionary Divergence of Duplicate Copies of the Growth Hormone Gene in Suckers (Actinopterygii: Catostomidae)
Authors: Bart Henry L. , Reneau Paulette C. , Doosey Michael H. , Bell Charles D.
Published: March 2010

Catostomid fishes (suckers) have duplicate copies of the growth hormone gene and other nuclear genes, due to a genome duplication event early in the group’s history. Yet, paralogs of GH in suckers are more than 90% conserved in nucleotide (nt) and amino acid (aa) sequence. Within paralogs across species, variation in nt and aa sequence averages 3.33% and 4.46% for GHI, and 3.22% and 2.43% for GHII, respectively. Selection tests suggest that the two GH paralogs are under strong purifying selection. Consensus trees from phylogenetic analysis of GH coding region data for 23 species of suckers, other cypriniform fishes and outgroups resolved cypriniform relationships and relationships among GHI sequences of suckers more or less consistently with analyses based on other molecular data. However, the analysis failed to resolve all sucker GHI and GHII sequences as monophyletic sister groups. This unexpected topology did not differ significantly from topologies constrained to make all GH sequences monophyletic. We attribute this result either to limitations in our GHII data set or convergent adaptive changes in GHII of tribe Catostomini.
Hybrid Integrated Platforms for Silicon Photonics
Authors: Liang Di , Roelkens Gunther , Baets Roel , Bowers John
Published: March 2010

A review of recent progress in hybrid integrated platforms for silicon photonics is presented. Integration of III-V semiconductors onto silicon-on-insulator substrates based on two different bonding techniques is compared, one comprising only inorganic materials, the other technique using an organic bonding agent. Issues such as bonding process and mechanism, bonding strength, uniformity, wafer surface requirement, and stress distribution are studied in detail. The application in silicon photonics to realize high-performance active and passive photonic devices on low-cost silicon wafers is discussed. Hybrid integration is believed to be a promising technology in a variety of applications of silicon photonics.
The Isolated and Combined Effects of Folic Acid and Synthetic Bioactive Compounds against Aβ(25-35)-Induced Toxicity in Human Microglial Cells
Authors: Liew Yih-Fong , Huang Chao-Tzu , Chou Shang-Shing P. , Kuo Yuh-Chi , Chou Shiu-Huey , Leu Jyh-Yih , Tzeng Woan-Fang , Wang Su-Jane , Tang Ming-Chi , Huang Rwei-Fen Syu
Published: March 2010

Folic acid plays an important role in neuronal development. A series of newly synthesized bioactive compounds (NSCs) was reported to exhibit immunoactive and neuroprotective functions. The isolated and combined effects of folic acid and NSCs against β-amyloid (Aβ)-induced cytotoxicity are poorly understood. These effects were tested using human microglia cells (C13NJ) subjected to Aβ(25-35) challenge. According to an MTT assay, treatment of C13NJ cells with Aβ(25-35) at 10~100 μM for 48 h induced 18%~43% cellular death in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). Aβ(25-35) treatment at 25 μM induced nitrite oxide (NO) release, elevated superoxide production, and reduced the distribution of cells in the S phase. Preincubation of C13NJ with 100 μM folic acid protected against Aβ(25-35)-induced cell death, which coincided with a reduction in NO release by folic acid supplements. NSC47 at a level of 50 μM protected against Aβ(25-35)-induced cell death and reduced Aβ-promoted superoxide production (p < 0.05). Folic acid in combination with NSC47 at their cytoprotective doses did not synergistically ameliorate Aβ(25-35)-associated NO release, superoxide production, or cell cycle arrest. Taken together, folic acid or NSC treatment alone, but not the combined regimen, protected against Aβ(25-35)-induced cell death, which may partially, if not completely, be mediated by free radical-scavenging effects.
Hitherto Unrecognized Fluorescence Properties of Coniferyl Alcohol
Authors: Achyuthan Komandoor Elayavalli , Adams Paul David , Datta Supratim , Simmons Blake Alexander , Singh Anup Kumar
Published: March 2010

We instituted a quasi-quality assurance program for demonstrating coniferyl alcohol’s fluorescence and fluorescence diminishment following enzymatic oxidation. The magnitude of diminishment was a measure of catalysis. High throughput screening was performed in pseudo-kinetic and endpoint modes by measuring the fluorescence at 416 nm following excitation at 290, 310 or 340 nm. Dose-response tracings were linear between two and three orders of magnitude with average limits of detection and quantitation of 1.8 and 6.9 mM coniferyl alcohol, respectively. Oxidation was evident with 0.025 mg/mL laccase or 0.003 mg/mL peroxidase or inside 5 min using 0.5 mg/mL laccase or 5 mM substrate. Sodium chloride inhibited (IC50, 25 mM) laccase oxidation of coniferyl alcohol. Fluorescence from 10 concentrations (1 to 1000 mM) of coniferyl alcohol was stable for 24 hours over 14 excitation/emission cycles at 3 different combinations of excitation and emission wavelengths. In conclusion, coniferyl alcohol absorption and fluorescence assays should facilitate biomass lignin analyses and improve delignification.
A Comparative Study of the Antibacterial, Antifungal and Antioxidant Activity and Total Content of Phenolic Compounds of Cell Cultures and Wild Plants of Three Endemic Species of Ephedra
Authors: Parsaeimehr Ali , Sargsyan Elmira , Javidnia Katayoun
Published: March 2010

Investigations were carried out to determine antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and total phenol content of three wild species of Ephedra compared with their respective callus cultures. Callus induction was performed in a standard Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with the following hormonal ranges (mg/L) for every species NAA:1.5, Kin:1 for Ephedra strobiliacea, NAA:2, Kin:1 for Ephedra procera and NAA:2, Kin:0.5 for Ephedra pachyclada. These ranges of PGPR (Plant Growth Promote Regulators) were chosen based on callus induction rates, RGR (Relative Growth Rate) and their fresh weights. An antimicrobial test against five Gram negative and two Gram positive bacteria and two fungi was performed using the disc diffusion method. All methanolic extracts showed antimicrobial activity, but the antimicrobial activity of the callus cultures was lower than those of the wild plants. E. strobilacea showed the highest antimicrobial activity, and all methanolic extracts of the wild plants and callus cultures unexpectedly showed the highest antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) test was conducted to evaluate extracts for antioxidant activity. E. strobilacea with 1.61 ± 0.08 mmol eq quercetin/gextract and 0.278 ± 0.02 mmol eq quercetin/gextract for the wild plant and callus, respectively, showed the highest results.The total phenol content of extracts was measured by a Folin Ciocalteau test. All the chosen species displayed phenol contents but E. strobilacea had the highest amount (504.9 ± 41.51 μmol eq catechin/gextracts and 114.61 ± 15.13 μmol eq catechin/gextracts for the wild plants and callus, respectively).
Influence of Magnolol on the Secretion of α-Toxin by Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Xiang Hua , Qiu Jia-Zhang , Wang Da-Cheng , Jiang You-Shuai , Xia Li-Jie , Deng Xu-Ming
Published: March 2010

In this study we investigated the antimicrobial activity of magnolol on Staphylococcus aureus. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of magnolol against 31 S. aureus strains ranged from 4–32 μg/mL. In addition, hemolysin assays, Western blotting, and real-time RT-PCR were performed to investigate the effect of magnolol on α-toxin secretion by both methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The results indicated that sub-inhibitory concentrations of magnolol dose-dependently inhibited the transcription of hla (the gene encoding α-toxin) in S. aureus, resulting in a reduction of α-toxin secretion and, thus, hemolytic activities.
HTS-Driven Discovery of New Chemotypes with West Nile Virus Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Chung Dong Hoon , Jonsson Colleen B. , Maddox Clinton , McKellip Sara N. , Moore Blake. P. , Heil Marintha , White E. Lucile , Ananthan Subramaniam , Li Qianjun , Feng Shuang , Rasmussen Lynn
Published: March 2010

West Nile virus (WNV) is a positive sense, single-stranded RNA virus that can cause illness in humans when transmitted via mosquito vectors. Unfortunately, no antivirals or vaccines are currently available, and therefore efficient and safe antivirals are urgently needed. We developed a high throughput screen to discover small molecule probes that inhibit virus infection of Vero E6 cells. A primary screen of a 13,001 compound library at a 10 µM final concentration was conducted using the 384-well format. Z′ values ranged from 0.54–0.83 with a median of 0.74. Average S/B was 17 and S/N for each plate ranged from 10.8 to 23.9. Twenty-six compounds showed a dose response in the HT screen and were further evaluated in a time of addition assay and in a titer reduction assay. Seven compounds showed potential as small molecule probes directed at WNV. The hit rate from the primary screen was 0.185% (24 compounds out of 13,001 compounds) and from the secondary screens was 0.053% (7 out of 13,001 compounds) respectively.
The Molecular Mechanism of Action of Artemisinin—The Debate Continues
Authors: O’Neill Paul M. , Barton Victoria E. , Ward Stephen A.
Published: March 2010

Despite international efforts to ‘roll back malaria’ the 2008 World Malaria Report revealed the disease still affects approximately 3 billion people in 109 countries; 45 within the WHO African region. The latest report however does provide some ‘cautious optimism’; more than one third of malarious countries have documented greater than 50% reductions in malaria cases in 2008 compared to 2000. The goal of the Member States at the World Health Assembly and ‘Roll Back Malaria’ (RBM) partnership is to reduce the numbers of malaria cases and deaths recorded in 2000 by 50% or more by the end of 2010. Although malaria is preventable it is most prevalent in poorer countries where prevention is difficult and prophylaxis is generally not an option. The burden of disease has increased by the emergence of multi drug resistant (MDR) parasites which threatens the use of established and cost effective antimalarial agents. After a major change in treatment policies, artemisinins are now the frontline treatment to aid rapid clearance of parasitaemia and quick resolution of symptoms. Since artemisinin and its derivatives are eliminated rapidly, artemisinin combination therapies (ACT’s) are now recommended to delay resistance mechanisms. In spite of these precautionary measures reduced susceptibility of parasites to the artemisinin-based component of ACT’s has developed at the Thai-Cambodian border, a historical ‘hot spot’ for MDR parasite evolution and emergence. This development raises serious concerns for the future of the artemsinins and this is not helped by controversy related to the mode of action. Although a number of potential targets have been proposed the actual mechanism of action remains ambiguous. Interestingly, artemisinins have also shown potent and broad anticancer properties in cell lines and animal models and are becoming established as anti-schistosomal agents. In this review we will discuss the recent evidence explaining bioactivation and potential molecular targets in the chemotherapy of malaria and cancer.
Reactivity and Synthetic Applications of 4,5-Dicyanopyridazine: An Overview
Authors: Alfini Renzo , Cecchi Marco , Giomi Donatella
Published: March 2010

Despite the poor reputation of electron-deficient pyridazines in intermolecular Hetero Diels-Alder (HDA) reactions, 4,5-dicyanopyridazine (DCP) showed a surprising reactivity as a heterocyclic azadiene in inverse electron-demand HDA processes with different dienophiles. The use of alkenes, alkynes and enamines as 2p electron counterparts afforded dicyanocyclohexa-1,3-dienes and substituted phthalonitriles, respectively, while the use of suitable bis-dienophiles provides a general strategy for the one-pot synthesis of polycyclic carbo- and hetero-cage systemsthrough pericyclic three-step homodomino processes. HDA reactions with heterocyclic dienophiles allowed direct benzoannelation: in particular, pyrrole and indole derivatives were converted to dicyano-indoles and -carbazoles. In addition an unprecedented reactivity of DCP as a very reactive heterocyclic electrophile at the C-4 carbon was also evidenced: by changing the experimental conditions, cyanopyrrolyl- and cyanoindolyl-pyridazines were obtained through reactions of pyrrole and indole systems as carbon nucleophiles in formal SNAr2 processes where a CN group of DCP acts as leaving group. Thus, careful control of the reaction conditions allows exploitation of both pathways for the synthesis of different classes of heterocyclic derivatives.
Gene-Regulatory Activity of α-Tocopherol
Authors: Rimbach Gerald , Moehring Jennifer , Huebbe Patricia , Lodge John K.
Published: March 2010

Vitamin E is an essential vitamin and a lipid soluble antioxidant, at least, under in vitro conditions. The antioxidant properties of vitamin E are exerted through its phenolic hydroxyl group, which donates hydrogen to peroxyl radicals, resulting in the formation of stable lipid species. Beside an antioxidant role, important cell signalling properties of vitamin E have been described. By using gene chip technology we have identified α-tocopherol sensitive molecular targets in vivo including christmas factor (involved in the blood coagulation) and 5α-steroid reductase type 1 (catalyzes the conversion of testosterone to 5α-dihydrotestosterone) being upregulated and γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl synthetase (the rate limiting enzyme in GSH synthesis) being downregulated due to a-tocopherol deficiency. α-Tocopherol regulates signal transduction cascades not only at the mRNA but also at the miRNA level since miRNA 122a (involved in lipid metabolism) and miRNA 125b (involved in inflammation) are downregulated by α-tocopherol. Genetic polymorphisms may determine the biological and gene-regulatory activity of a-tocopherol. In this context we have recently shown that genes encoding for proteins involved in peripheral α-tocopherol transport and degradation are significantly affected by the apoE genotype.
Vitamins and Prostate Cancer Risk
Authors: Donkena Krishna Vanaja , Karnes R. Jeffrey , Young Charles Y.F.
Published: March 2010

Prostate cancer (PC) is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. Its prevention and treatment remain a challenge to clinicians. Here we review the relationship of vitamins to PC risk. Many vitamins and related chemicals, including vitamin A, retinoids, several B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D and vitamin E have shown their anti-cancer activities as anti-oxidants, activators of transcription factors or factors influencing epigenetic events. Although laboratory tests including the use of animal models showed these vitamins may have anti-PC properties, whether they can effectively prevent the development and/or progression of PC in humans remains to be intensively studied subjects. This review will provide up-to-date information regarding the recent outcomes of laboratory, epidemiology and/or clinical trials on the effects of vitamins on PC prevention and/or treatment.
Synthesis and Characterization of Organotin Containing Copolymers: Reactivity Ratio Studies
Authors: Al-Deyab Salem S. , Al-Hazmi Ali Mohsen , El-Newehy Mohamed H.
Published: March 2010

Organotin monomers containing dibutyltin groups – dibutyltin citraconate (DBTC) as a new monomer and dibutyltin maleate (DBTM) – were synthesized. Free radical copolymerizations of the organotin monomers with styrene (ST) and butyl acrylate (BA) were performed. The overall conversion was kept low (≤15% wt/wt) for all studied samples and the copolymers composition was determined from tin analysis using the Gillman and Rosenberg method. The reactivity ratios were calculated from the copolymer composition using the Fineman-Ross (FR) method. The synthesized monomers were characterized by elemental analysis, 1H-, 13C-NMR and FTIR spectroscopy.
Synthesis of a Novel Fluorescent Sensor Bearing Dansyl Fluorophores for the Highly Selective Detection of Mercury (II) Ions
Authors: Wanichacheva Nantanit , Watpathomsub Supranee , Lee Vannajan Sanghiran , Grudpan Kate
Published: March 2010

A new macromolecule possessing two dansyl moieties and based on 2-[4-(2-aminoethylthio)butylthio]ethanamine was prepared as a fluorescent sensor and its mercury sensing properties toward various transition metal, alkali, and alkali earth ions were investigated. The designed compound exhibited pronounced Hg2+-selective ON-OFF type fluorescence switching upon binding. The new compoundprovided highly selective sensing to Hg2+ in acetonitrile-water solvent mixtures with a detection limit of 2.49 x 10-7 M or 50 ppb. The molecular modeling results indicated that ions-recognition of the sensor originated from a self assembly process of the reagentand Hg2+ to form a helical wrapping structure with the favorable electrostatic interactions of Hg2+coordinated with sulfur, oxygen, nitrogen atoms and aromatic moieties.
Antimicrobial, Cytotoxicity and Phytochemical Screening of Jordanian Plants Used in Traditional Medicine
Authors: Talib Wamidh , Mahasneh Adel
Published: March 2010

Antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity of fifty one extracts of different parts of 14 plants were studied. Ethanol, methanol, aqueous, butanol, and n-hexane extracts were tested against three Gram negative, two Gram positive bacteria, and two fungi. Cytotoxicity and phytochemical screening were determined using MTT and TLC assays, respectively. Of the fifty one extracts, twenty two showed activities against different microorganisms with MICs ranging from 62.5 to 1000 µg/mL. The highest activity (100% inhibition) was for a butanol extract of Rosa damascena receptacles against Salmonella typhimurium and Bacillus cereus (MIC of 62.5 and 250 µg/mL) respectively. Butanol extract of Narcissus tazetta aerial parts and aqueous extract of Rosa damascena receptacles were both active against Candida albicans (MIC of 125 µg/mL). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was inhibited by butanol, aqueous extracts of Rosa damascena receptacles and butanol extract of Inula viscosa flowers (MIC of 500, 500, and 250 µg/mL) respectively. Rosa damascena receptacles and Verbascum sinaiticum flowers ethanol extract showed lowest cytoxicity against Vero cell line (IC50 of 454.11and 367.11). Most toxic was the ethanol extract of Ononis hirta aerial parts (IC50 72.50 µg/mL). Flavonoids and terpenoids were present in all plants. Ononis hirta and Narcissus tazetta contained alkaloids. The results validate the use of these plants and report for the first time bioactivity of Rosa damascena receptacles and further justifies the use of such screening programs in the quest for new drugs.