bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dominant Owners and Performance of Continental European Firms
Authors: Krivogorsky Victoria , Burton F. Greg
Published: January 2012

We examine dominant ownership in Continental European firms to further refine the distinction between the ability to control and actual control and whether a particular distinct shareholder ownership type is associated with company performance. In addition, we empirically test whether the economic performance of the firms from different countries is consistently affected by the nature of the company's dominant owner. After disaggregating the overall sample by specific ownership type and by country, we find a positive relationship between dominant ownership and performance for firms in which banks and families/individuals are the dominant owners and a negative relationship when corporations are the dominant owners. Additional analysis discloses an even more complicated picture, suggesting that countries are not homogenous in terms of their ownership landscapes and, hence, their effects on performance.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Defects: Proposal for a New Classification Based on Observations in 234 Patients
Authors: Ackerman Kate G. , Vargas Sara O. , Wilson Jay A. , Jennings Russell W. , Kozakewich Harry P.W. , Pober Barbara R.
Published: January 2012

Congenital diaphragmatic defects (CDDs) are a common group of birth defects, yet we presently know little about their pathogenesis. No systematic study documenting the detailed morphology of CDD has been performed, and current classification schemata of diaphragm phenotypes incompletely capture the location and extent of diaphragmatic involvement. To define the range of CDD anatomy, diaphragmatic pathology was reviewed from an examination of 181 autopsy records of children with CDDs at Children's Hospital Boston between 1927 and 2006. Defects were classified according to several parameters, including type (communicating versus noncommunicating) and location (anterior, posterior, etc.). The information permitted development of a phenotyping worksheet for prospective use on patients undergoing diaphragmatic repair at Children's Hospital Boston or MassGeneral Hospital for Children. Fifty-three patients who died between 1990 and 2006 had a total of 63 defects. Thirty-nine had a “classic” CDD phenotype (64% posterolateral, 18% hemidiaphragmatic aplasia, and 18% anterior). The remaining 19 defects, not fitting classical descriptions, were located in the posteromedial, anterolateral, or lateral regions of the diaphragm. Prospective data collected during surgical repair revealed posterolateral defects in 34 of 41 cases that demonstrated wide phenotypic variability in size, location, shape, type, and extent of organ displacement. Congenital diaphragmatic defects display significant phenotypic variation. Because rigorous anatomic evaluation and documentation are important steps towards elucidating the developmental biology of these disorders, we suggest establishment of a new and more precise classification using the model presented herein.
Effects of intravenous, low-dose ketamine-diazepam sedation on the results of hematologic, plasma biochemical, and coagulation analyses in cats
Authors: Reynolds Brice S. , Geffré Anne , Bourgès-Abella Nathalie H. , Vaucoret Sophie , Mourot Maité , Braun Jean-Pierre D. , Trumel Catherine
Published: January 2012

Objective—To evaluate the effects of an IV, low-dose ketamine-diazepam combination used for short-duration chemical restraint on the results of clinicopathologic testing in cats and to assess its practicality and tolerance.

Design—Prospective case series.

Animals—42 client-owned cats of various breeds, ages, and health status.

Procedures—Blood samples were obtained just prior to and just after IV injection of ketamine chlorhydrate (10 mg) and diazepam (0.5 mg). A CBC, plasma biochemistry panel, and coagulation profile were performed on each sample (ie, before and after chemical restraint). Practicality of the procedure was assessed, and cats were monitored for immediate and delayed effects.

Results—Significant changes were observed for most of the analytes tested. However, the magnitude of the observed changes was notably low and likely not of clinical relevance. The chemical-restraint procedure appeared effective, safe, and well tolerated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The IV, low-dose ketamine-diazepam combination used for short-duration chemical restraint in the present study may be suitable to assist physical restraint for blood sampling for assessment of hematologic, serum biochemical, and coagulation parameters in cats.
Dexrazoxane treatment of doxorubicin extravasation injury in four dogs
Authors: Venable Rachel O. , Saba Corey F. , Endicott Melissa M. , Northrup Nicole C.
Published: January 2012

Case Description—4 dogs were treated with dexrazoxane for known or suspected doxorubicin extravasation. Records were retrospectively reviewed. Doses and number of doses of dexrazoxane were variable. Dexrazoxane was administered within 2 hours after known extravasation in 3 dogs and 48 hours after suspected extravasation in 1 dog. Additional medical treatments included tissue cooling in all dogs, topically administered dimethyl sulfoxide ointment in 3, and orally administered piroxicam in 1.

Clinical Findings—Mild erythema and edema at the extravasation site developed within 1 to 6 days after extravasation in the 3 dogs that received dexrazoxane within 2 hours after extravasation. Extensive tissue necrosis occurred in the dog treated 48 hours after suspected extravasation.

Treatment and Outcome—Only the dog with severe tissue necrosis required surgical intervention. Lesions in the other 3 dogs resolved with medical management alone. All dogs survived the event.

Clinical Relevance—To date, use of dexrazoxane in the management of doxorubicin extravasation has not been reported in dogs. Treatment was successful in 3 of 4 patients. The most effective dosage and timing of administration are unknown; however, there is evidence to suggest that administration within 6 hours after the event is warranted. Further studies are needed to confirm efficacy and to optimize use of this drug in the prevention and treatment of anthracycline extravasation injury in veterinary patients.
Effect of sedation with detomidine on intraocular pressure with and without topical anesthesia in clinically normal horses
Authors: Holve Dana L.
Published: January 2012

Objective—To determine the effect of sedation with detomidine on intraocular pressure (IOP) in standing horses and whether topical ocular application of anesthetic alters this effect.

Design—Clinical trial.

Animals—15 clinically normal horses.

Procedures—Horses were assigned to group 1 (n = 7) or 2 (8). Intraocular pressure measurements were obtained at baseline (before sedation) and 10 minutes after IV administration of detomidine (0.02 mg/kg [0.009 mg/lb]). Group 1 horses had an additional IOP measurement at 20 minutes after sedation. For group 2 horses, topical ocular anesthetic was administered 10 minutes prior to baseline IOP measurements.

Results—Mean ± SD baseline IOP for horses without topical anesthesia (group 1 horses; IOP, 24.30 ± 3.09 mm Hg) was significantly lower, compared with that of horses with topical anesthesia (group 2 horses; IOP, 30.40 ± 3.25 mm Hg). Compared with baseline values, IOP at 10 minutes after sedation decreased significantly in all horses (by 3.61 ± 1.48 mm Hg and 5.78 ± 4.32 mm Hg in groups 1 and 2, respectively). In group 1 horses, IOP at 10 (20.69 ± 3.45 mm Hg) and 20 (19.96 ± 2.13 mm Hg) minutes after sedation was significantly decreased, compared with baseline values; however, the difference between IOP at 10 versus 20 minutes was not significant. The difference in IOP between group 1 and 2 horses at 10 minutes after sedation was not significant.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—IV administration of detomidine caused a decrease in IOP in clinically normal horses and may be a safe sedative when performing ocular procedures.
170 Years of Chemistry at the University of Geneva, 1800–1970
Authors: Hauert Jonas
Published: January 2012

On the occasion of the 450th anniversary of the Académie et Université de Genève, a historical account of the developments of chemistry in Geneva from its beginning in the late 18th century to the present time is given.
Physical Chemistry at the University of Geneva
Authors: Hagemann Hans , Weber Jacques , Lucken Edwin Anthony C. , Gülaçar Fazil , Buchs Armand , Bill Hans , Hauser Andreas , Geoffroy Michel , Gagliardi Laura , Berclaz Théo , Wesolowski Tomasz A. , Vauthey Eric
Published: January 2012

A brief historical overview of physical chemistry at the University of Geneva as well as a description of the present research activities at the department of physical chemistry are presented.
The Biochemistry Department of the University of Geneva: Understanding the Molecular Basis and Function of Intracellular Organization
Authors: González-Gaitán Marcos , Gruenberg Jean , Halazonetis Thanos , Laemmli Ulrich K. , Matter Jean-Marc , Riezman Howard , Schaad Olivier , Soldati Thierry , Watanabe Reika
Published: January 2012

The Biochemistry Department at the University of Geneva currently has four full professors, a professor emeritus, one assistant professor, two MER (Maître d'enseignement et de Recherche) and a permanent scientific collaborator. The research interests of the members of the
Biochemistry Department are described.
Macromolecules and Enzymes: The Geneva Heritage from Kurt H. Meyer and Edmond H. Fischer
Authors: Fischer Edmond H. , Piguet Alfred
Published: January 2012

On the 26th May 2009, Edmond Fischer, winner with Ed Krebs of the Nobel prize in physiology or medicine in 1992, and his colleague at the time of his research activities at the Ecole de chimie of the University of Geneva, Alfred Piguet, met with Andreas Hauser, Claude Piguet
and Howard Riezman of the Section de chimie et biochimie of the University of Geneva to talk about how they became scientists under the impetus of Kurt H. Meyer and what became of them thereafter.
The Chemical Society of Geneva, a Vital Link Between the Academy and the City
Authors: Barras Jean-Pierre , Hagemann Hans
Published: January 2012

The historical background and the current activities of the Chemical Society of Geneva are described. Founded 88 years ago from the merger of three student associations, the Society today connects some 190 chemists and biochemists from all professional horizons. The Society's main goal
is to promote molecular sciences studies and applications in Geneva. In addition to regularly organizing scientific lectures and visits, it sponsors major scientific seminars and grants annual awards to secondary school pupils and bachelor students.
Getting Hooked on Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry
Authors: Fromm Katharina M.
Published: January 2012

The author describes the beginnings of her research in Switzerland, the inspiration she received from her senior colleagues as well as her first successful research results in the chemistry of alkaline earth metal aggregates and silver coordination polymer networks. Her current interest
lies in the design of smart materials, using different building blocks from previous projects. These projects evolved in Geneva, Karlsruhe, Basel, and Fribourg, where she became a full professor in 2006.
The Chance of a Lifetime: To Learn from the Best
Authors: Slaveykova Vera I.
Published: January 2012

The author describes her experience as a Maître-assistante at the University of Geneva and the significant influence of Jacques Buffle on her development as an environmental chemist.
Getting the Opportunity to Fly on your own
Authors: Van der Goot F. Gisou
Published: January 2012

The author describes the beginning of her independent scientific career in the Department of Biochemistry of the University of Geneva, at a time when Assistant Professor positions did not exist there and female group leaders in the Section of Chemistry were a rare species. Good timing,
strong support and an excellent atmosphere are what she remembers. Her stay there was absolutely crucial to her success.
Shining Light at Working Interfaces and Chiral Nanoparticles
Authors: Bürgi Thomas
Published: January 2012

In this article we present an overview of our recent research in the fields of in situ spectroscopy, nanomaterials and chirality. Our research focuses around the spectroscopic investigation of chemical reactions taking place at solid–liquid interfaces. This research goesh
and in hand with the development of experimental techniques that enable us to study interface phenomena in situ. Using such techniques we try to shed light on photocatalytic reactions like the decomposition of organic pollutants in water or the reduction of carbon dioxide. We are moreover
interested in chiral surfaces and their ability to discriminate betweenen antiomers. Again this relies on special techniques that highlight the enantiodiscriminating surface–adsorbate interactions. We further more seek to transfer chirality from adsorbates to metal nanoparticles. The
latter are probed by chiroptical techniques, particularly also vibrational circular dichroism (VCD). Finally, we aim at preparing metamaterials with tailored optical properties by organizing plasmonic particles in two and three dimensions.
Membranes for Specific Adsorption: Immobilizing Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Microspheres using Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Büttiker Roman , Ebert Jürgen , Hinderling Christian , Adlhart Christian
Published: January 2012

Molecularly imprinted polymer microspheres were immobilized within a polymer nanofiber membrane by electrospinning. Such membranes simplify the handling of functional microspheres and provide specific recognition capabilities for solid-phase extraction and filtration applications. In
this study, microspheres were prepared by precipitation polymerization of methacrylic acid and divinylbenzene as a cross-linker with the target molecule (?)-cinchonidine and then, they were electrospun into a non-woven polyacrylonitrile nanofiber membrane. The composite membrane showed
specific affinity for (?)-cinchonidine which was attributed to the functional microspheres as confirmed by Raman microscopy. The target molecule capturing capacity of the composite membrane was 5 mg/g or 25 mg/g immobilized functional microsphere. No difference in target affinity was
observed between the immobilized microspheres and the free microspheres. These results reveal that electrospun composite membranes are a feasible approach to immobilizing functional microspheres.
Effects of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on the Growth Performance of Carps in Earthen Ponds through Polyculture System
Authors: Jasmine S. , Ahamed F. , Rahman S.H. , Jewel M.A.S. , Hossain M.Y.
Published: January 2012

Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food-producing sector in the World and has exhibited continuous improving in total production throughout the recent decades. A carp polyculture experiment was carried out to evaluate the growth performance of major carps in semi-intensive fish culture system. Two earthen ponds located at Kadirganj of Boalia thana under Rajshahi district of Bangladesh were selected to study the effect of fertilizer (organic as cowdung and in-organic as triple super phosphate) in supplemented ponds on the growth of carps. Pond -01 was fertilized with cowdung and TSP at the rate of 1728 and 20 kg/h respectively, at 10-day intervals. Pond -02 was without fertilizer. Each pond was stocked with 30% Labeo rohita, 20% Catla catla, 15% Cirrhinus mrigala, 15% Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, and 20% Cyprinus carpio with a total stocking density of 10000/ha. Both ponds were supplemented with mustard oil cake, rice bran and maize bran at the rate of 2.5 kg/ha for each, given for a period of six months as daily basis. The net fish production was found to be 2605 and 1795 kg/ha/year in pond -01 and pond -02, respectively. The results showed that fish production was significantly higher in pond -01 than pond -02 (P<0.05). Pond -01 showed 1.45 times greater fish production than that of pond -02. The results of this study provided invaluable information for the sustainable aquaculture, as well as providing an important baseline for future studies within Bangladesh and surrounding developing countries.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v9i1.5727
Studies on Length-weight and Length-length Relationships of a Cold Water Fish Neolissochilus hexagonolepis (McClelland) from Tamor River, Nepal
Authors: Subba S. , Adhikaree S.
Published: January 2012

Present paper attempts to describe length-weight (LW) and total length-standard length (TL and SL) total length and forkal length relationships of cold water fish Neolissochilus hexagonolepis. Fish of different length and weight were caught using cast net and scoop net at Mulghat vicinity, Dhankuta. The fish were kept in ice box in fresh condition and brought to fish laboratory, Department of Zoology, Post Graduate Campus, Biratnagar .The measurement of the fish samples was done with maximum accuracy. The data obtained from measurement were analysed using the formula W = aLb. The b values estimated for the total length and standard length in relation to body weight were 3.056 and 3.063, respectively. The values of b clearly indicate the isometric growth pattern.For total length, standard length and forkal length relationships, the linear values of b were 0.103 and -0.299. Similarly for the relationship between the forkal length and standard length the linear value of b was 0.346.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v9i1.5748
Ethno-botanical and Germinational Aspects of Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz
Authors: Trivedi M.P. , Kumari R.
Published: January 2012

Rauvolfia serpentina is a medicinal plant of family Apocynaceae. For centuries since pre-Vedic period it has been used for different medicinal purposes in India and Malaysia. Its preparations have been reported for treatment of fever, snake bite and insanity.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v9i1.5750
Environmental and natural resources governance: Rethinking public-private relationships
Authors: Maganda Carmen , Petit Olivier
Published: January 2012

Talking about environmental and natural resources (ENR) governance today is generally related to the search for holistic elements to achieve sustainability. Political ecology clearly points out and debates the need to see ENR, particularly those related to vital necessities, as global public goods. It sounds like an easy equation: How can we achieve sustainability without sharing access, costs, benefits, and of course governance of ENR needed for all human activities? However, as logical as it seems, development inequalities and unregulated market relationships on the management of these resources are still predominant. Therefore, environmental governance and sustainability is still one of the major contemporary global challenges.
Droits liés à l’eau dans la Camargue insulaire : à la croisée de la gouvernance environnementale et de la gestion des risques
Authors: Allouche Aurélien , Nicolas Laurence
Published: January 2012

For a long time the area known as the Camargue (France) had conciliated the different rights related to water uses solely by adjusting its hydraulic system. The limits of this system were shown by the floods that occurred in 1993 that forced the governance paradigm to coordinate actors' rights related to water uses in the public space, and, at the same time, to elaborate new ways of acting upon the hydraulic system. This evolution presents nevertheless the risk to prioritize the plurality of rights, to manage the plurality of technical and natural constraints, and to render essential the movement out of public space of the treatment of data and technical constraints entering the adjustment of the system. Recent initiatives within governance attempt, conversely, to dissociate the space for the expression of rights linked to water from that for actions. By doing so, this inflection allows for profit-sharing and mobilization in the part of the system which other forms of participation had difficulty implicating. However, other problems arise, such as the intersection between the public and the private spheres or plurality between levels of management.

Spanish
Durante mucho tiempo, la Camarga (Francia) ha conciliado los derechos relativos a los usos de agua a través de ajustes de su sistema hidráulico. Los límites de este sistema, puestos en evidencia por las inundaciones de 1993, han conducido al paradigma de gestión a manejar simultáneamente en el mismo espacio público la coordinación de derechos relativos a los usos de agua y las acciones sobre el sistema técnico. Sin embargo, esta evolución corre el riesgo de producir una jerarquía entre los derechos de los usos de agua para gestionar la diversidad de las limitaciones naturales y técnicas, y de desplazar fuera del espacio público una parte del procesamiento de datos y las limitaciones técnicas utilizadas en el ajuste del sistema. Por el contrario, recientes iniciativas en la gobernanza de este recurso están intentando separar el espacio de expresión de los derechos relacionados con el agua de las acciones. De este modo, este cambio permite generar interés y movilizar a una parte del sistema que las otras modalidades de acción no habían conseguido involucrar hasta ahora. Esta nueva reconfiguración no esta libre de desafíos, tales como aquellos generados por la intersección de la esfera pública y privada, por la pluralidad de niveles de gestión.
The price of peace for the second lung of the planet
Authors: Feyder Nadine
Published: January 2012

In the Human Development Report of 2010, 135 countries representing 92% of the world population had a higher Human Development Index than in the 1970s. Three countries were an exception to the rule: Zambia, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). As it celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence, the DRC rates itself 168th out of a total of 169 countries on the Human Development Index scale.
An Evaluation of Modeled Plume Injection Height with Satellite-Derived Observed Plume Height
Authors: Raffuse Sean M. , Craig Kenneth J. , Larkin Narasimhan K. , Strand Tara T. , Sullivan Dana Coe , Wheeler Neil J. M. , Solomon Robert
Published: January 2012

Plume injection height influences plume transport characteristics, such as range and potential for dilution. We evaluated plume injection height from a predictive wildland fire smoke transport model over the contiguous United States (U.S.) from 2006 to 2008 using satellite-derived information, including plume top heights from the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) Plume Height Climatology Project and aerosol vertical profiles from the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP). While significant geographic variability was found in the comparison between modeled plumes and satellite-detected plumes, modeled plume heights were lower overall. In the eastern U.S., satellite-detected and modeled plume heights were similar (median height 671 and 660 m respectively). Both satellite-derived and modeled plume injection heights were higher in the western U.S. (2345 and 1172 m, respectively). Comparisons of modeled plume injection height to satellite-derived plume height at the fire location (R2 = 0.1) were generally worse than comparisons done downwind of the fire (R2 = 0.22). This suggests that the exact injection height is not as important as placement of the plume in the correct transport layer for transport modeling.
Development of Chemiluminescent Lateral Flow Assay for the Detection of Nucleic Acids
Authors: Wang Yuhong , Fill Catherine , Nugen Sam R.
Published: January 2012

Rapid, sensitive detection methods are of utmost importance for the identification of pathogens related to health and safety. Herein we report the development of a nucleic acid sequence-based lateral flow assay which achieves a low limit of detection using chemiluminescence. On-membrane enzymatic signal amplification is used to reduce the limit of detection to the sub-femtomol level. To demonstrate this assay, we detected synthetic nucleic acid sequences representative of Trypanosoma mRNA, the causative agent for African sleeping sickness, with relevance in human and animal health in sub-Saharan Africa. The intensity of the chemiluminescent signal was evaluated by using a charge-coupled device as well as a microtiter plate reader. We demonstrated that our lateral flow chemiluminescent assay has a very low limit of detection and is easy to use. The limit of detection was determined to be 0.5 fmols of nucleic acid target.
Plasmonic Molecular Nanohybrids—Spectral Dependence of Fluorescence Quenching
Authors: Olejnik Maria , Bujak Łukasz , Mackowski Sebastian
Published: January 2012

We demonstrate strong spectral dependence of the efficiency of fluorescence quenching in molecular systems composed of organic dyes and gold nanoparticles. In order to probe the coupling with metallic nanoparticles we use dyes with varied spectral overlap between the plasmon resonance and their absorption. Hybrid molecular structures were obtained via conjugation of metallic nanoparticles with the dyes using biotin-streptavidin linkage. For dyes featuring absorption above the plasmon excitation in gold nanoparticles, laser excitation induces minute changes in the fluorescence intensity and its lifetime for both conjugated and non-conjugated mixtures, which are the reference. In contrast, when the absorption of the dye overlaps with the plasmon resonance, the effect is quite dramatic, reaching 85% and 95% fluorescence quenching for non-conjugated and conjugated mixtures, respectively. The degree of fluorescence quenching strongly depends upon the concentration of metallic nanoparticles. Importantly, the origin of the fluorescence quenching is different in the case of the conjugated mixture, as evidenced by time-resolved fluorescence. For conjugated mixtures of dyes resonant with plasmon, excitation features two-exponential decay. This is in contrast to the single exponential decay measured for the off-resonant configuration. The results provide valuable insight into spectral dependence of the fluorescence quenching in molecular assemblies involving organic dyes and metallic nanoparticles.
Structural Elucidation and Bioactivity of Biflavonoids from the Stems of Wikstroemia taiwanensis
Authors: Chen Li-Yin , Chen Ih-Sheng , Peng Chien-Fang
Published: January 2012

Three new biflavonoids, wikstaiwanones A–C (1–3), along with four known compounds (4–7) were isolated from the stems of Wikstroemia taiwanensis (Thymelaeaceae). Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis. Compounds 4 and 5 showed antitubercular activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis with MIC values of 15 μg/mL, respectively.
Differential Expression of the Demosponge (Suberites domuncula) Carotenoid Oxygenases in Response to Light: Protection Mechanism Against the Self-Produced Toxic Protein (Suberitine)
Authors: Müller Werner E. G. , Wang Xiaohong , Binder Michael , Lintig Johannes von , Wiens Matthias , Schröder Heinz C.
Published: January 2012

The demosponge Suberites domuncula has been described to contain high levels of a proteinaceous toxin, Suberitine, that displays haemolytic activityIn the present study this 7–8 kDa polypeptide has been isolated and was shown to exhibit also cytotoxic effects on cells of the same species. Addition of retinal, a recently identified metabolite of β-carotene that is abundantly present in S. domuncula was found to reduce both the haemolytic and the cell toxic activity of Suberitine at a molar ratio of 1:1. Spectroscopic analyses revealed that the interaction between β-carotene and Suberitine can be ascribed to a reversible energy transfer reaction. The enzyme that synthesises retinal in the sponge system is the β,β-carotene-15,15′-dioxygenase [carotene dioxygenase]. In order to clarify if this enzyme is the only β-carotene-metabolizing enzyme a further oxygenase had been identified and cloned, the (related) carotenoid oxygenase. In contrast to the dioxygenase, the carotenoid oxygenase could not degrade β-carotene or lycopene in Escherichia coli strains that produced these two carotenoids; therefore it had been termed related-carotenoid oxygenase. Exposure of primmorphs to light of different wavelengths from the visible spectrum resulted after 3 days in a strong upregulation of the dioxygenase in those 3D-cell aggregates that had been incubated with β-carotene. The strongest effect is seen with blue light at a maximum around 490 nm. It is concluded that the toxin Suberitine is non-covalently modified by retinal, the cleavage product from β-carotene via the enzyme carotene dioxygenase, a light inducible oxygenase. Hence, this study highlights that in S. domuncula the bioactive metabolite, retinal, has the property to detoxify its homologous toxin.
Studies on 3-Oxoalkanenitriles: Novel Rearrangement Reactions Observed in Studies of the Chemistry of 3-Heteroaroyl-3-Oxoalkanenitriles as Novel Routes to 2-Dialkylaminopyridines
Authors: Al-Matar Hamad M. , Khalil Khaled D. , Al-Kanderi Mona F. , Elnagdi Mohamed H.
Published: January 2012

3-Aroyl and 3-heteroaroyl substituted 3-oxoalkanenitriles were synthesized by the reactions of activated aromatic and hetero-aromatic substances with cyanoacetic acid in the presence of acetic anhydride. As part of studies focusing on the preparation of cyanoacetyl-1-N-methylbenzimidazole, we observed that reaction of N-methyl-benzimidazole with the cyanoanhydride formed by condensation of cyanoacetic acid with acetic anhydride, leads to the formation of 2-(1,3-diacetyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]-imidazol-2-yl)acetonitrile (5), whose structure was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. 3-Oxoalkanenitriles 3a,b were observed to undergo condensation reactions with dimethylformamide dimethyl acetal (DMFDMA) to afford the corresponding enamino-nitriles, which react with malononitrile to give 2-dialkylaminopyridines through a pathway involving a new, unexpected rearrangement process. Reactions of 3-oxoalkanenitriles with ethyl acetoacetate were found to afford 2-oxopyran-3-carbonitriles, also occurring via this unexpected rearrangement process. Mechanisms to account for both rearrangement reactions are suggested. In addition, reactions of 3-oxoalkanenitriles with acetylacetone in acetic acid in the presence of ammonium acetate result in the formation of pyridine-3-carbonitriles. Finally, upon heating in the presence of zeolite 3-oxoalkanenitriles 3b,c self-trimerized to produce the corresponding aniline derivatives 23b,c.
Effect of Wine and Vinegar Processing of Rhizoma Corydalis on the Tissue Distribution of Tetrahydropalmatine, Protopine and Dehydrocorydaline in Rats
Authors: Dou Zhiying , Li Kefeng , Wang Ping , Cao Liu
Published: January 2012

Vinegar and wine processing of medicinal plants are two traditional pharmaceutical techniques which have been used for thousands of years in China. Tetrahydropalmatine (THP), dehydrocorydaline (DHC) and protopine are three major bioactive molecules in Rhizoma Corydalis. In this study, a simple and reliable HPLC method was developed for simultaneous analysis of THP, DHC and protopine in rat tissues after gastric gavage administration of Rhizoma Corydalis. The validated HPLC method was successfully applied to investigate the effect of wine and vinegar processing on the compounds’ distribution in rat tissues. Our results showed that processing mainly affect the Tmax and mean residence time (MRT) of the molecules without changing their Cmax and AUC0–24 h Vinegar processing significantly increased the Tmax of DHC in heart, kidney, cerebrum, cerebrellum, brain stem and striatum and prolonged the Tmax of protopine in brain. No significant changes were observed on the Tmax of THP in rat tissues after vinegar processing. Wine processing reduced the Tmax of protopine and DHC in liver and spleen and Tmax of protopine in lung, but increased the Tmax of THP in all the rat tissues examined. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the effects of processing on the tissue distribution of the bioactive molecules from Rhizoma Corydalis.
Psychotherapy with African American Women with Depression: Is it okay to Talk about Their Religious/Spiritual Beliefs?
Authors: Mengesha Maigenete , Ward Earlise C.
Published: January 2012

A growing body of research focusing on African Americans’ mental health is showing that this group relies heavily on their religious/spiritual beliefs and practices to cope with mental health issues including depression. Unfortunately, the psychotherapy literature provides little guidance on how to incorporate religion/spirituality into psychotherapy with African American women. With the growing cultural diversity of the U.S. population, there has been more emphasis on providing patient-centered culturally sensitive care, which involves providing care that is respectful of, and responsive to, individual patient preferences, needs, and values. This paper provides a synthesis of literature that psychotherapists could use to become more culturally sensitive and patient-centered in their clinical practices; that is, to recognize and integrate religion/spirituality into their work with African American women experiencing depression, and possibly other groups with similar needs.
Computer Reconstruction of Plant Growth and Chlorophyll Fluorescence Emission in Three Spatial Dimensions
Authors: Bellasio Chandra , Olejníčková Julie , Tesař Radek , Šebela David , Nedbal Ladislav
Published: January 2012

Plant leaves grow and change their orientation as well their emission of chlorophyll fluorescence in time. All these dynamic plant properties can be semi-automatically monitored by a 3D imaging system that generates plant models by the method of coded light illumination, fluorescence imaging and computer 3D reconstruction. Here, we describe the essentials of the method, as well as the system hardware. We show that the technique can reconstruct, with a high fidelity, the leaf size, the leaf angle and the plant height. The method fails with wilted plants when leaves overlap obscuring their true area. This effect, naturally, also interferes when the method is applied to measure plant growth under water stress. The method is, however, very potent in capturing the plant dynamics under mild stress and without stress. The 3D reconstruction is also highly effective in correcting geometrical factors that distort measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence emission of naturally positioned plant leaves.
Replication-Competent Recombinant Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) Viruses Expressing Indicator Proteins and Antiviral Cytokines
Authors: Sang Yongming , Shi Jishu , Sang Wenjing , Rowland Raymond R. R. , Blecha Frank
Published: January 2012

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) can subvert early innate immunity, which leads to ineffective antimicrobial responses. Overcoming immune subversion is critical for developing vaccines and other measures to control this devastating swine virus. The overall goal of this work was to enhance innate and adaptive immunity following vaccination through the expression of interferon (IFN) genes by the PRRSV genome. We have constructed a series of recombinant PRRS viruses using an infectious PRRSV cDNA clone (pCMV-P129). Coding regions of exogenous genes, which included Renilla luciferase (Rluc), green and red fluorescent proteins (GFP and DsRed, respectively) and several interferons (IFNs), were constructed and expressed through a unique subgenomic mRNA placed between ORF1b and ORF2 of the PRRSV infectious clone. The constructs, which expressed Rluc, GFP, DsRed, efficiently produced progeny viruses and mimicked the parental virus in both MARC-145 cells and porcine macrophages. In contrast, replication of IFN-expressing viruses was attenuated, similar to the level of replication observed after the addition of exogenous IFN. Furthermore, the IFN expressing viruses inhibited the replication of a second PRRS virus co-transfected or co-infected. Inhibition by the different IFN subtypes corresponded to their anti-PRRSV activity, i.e., IFNω5 » IFNα1 > IFN-β > IFNδ3. In summary, the indicator-expressing viruses provided an efficient means for real-time monitoring of viral replication thus allowing high‑throughput elucidation of the role of host factors in PRRSV infection. This was shown when they were used to clearly demonstrate the involvement of tumor susceptibility gene 101 (TSG101) in the early stage of PRRSV infection. In addition, replication‑competent IFN-expressing viruses may be good candidates for development of modified live virus (MLV) vaccines, which are capable of reversing subverted innate immune responses and may induce more effective adaptive immunity against PRRSV infection.
Immunity to Fish Rhabdoviruses
Authors: Purcell Maureen K. , Laing Kerry J. , Winton James R.
Published: January 2012

Members of the family Rhabdoviridae are single-stranded RNA viruses and globally important pathogens of wild and cultured fish and thus relatively well studied in their respective hosts or other model systems. Here, we review the protective immune mechanisms that fish mount in response to rhabdovirus infections. Teleost fish possess the principal components of innate and adaptive immunity found in other vertebrates. Neutralizing antibodies are critical for long-term protection from fish rhabdoviruses, but several studies also indicate a role for cell-mediated immunity. Survival of acute rhabdoviral infection is also dependent on innate immunity, particularly the interferon (IFN) system that is rapidly induced in response to infection. Paradoxically, rhabdoviruses are sensitive to the effects of IFN but virulent rhabdoviruses can continue to replicate owing to the abilities of the matrix (M) protein to mediate host-cell shutoff and the non‑virion (NV) protein to subvert programmed cell death and suppress functional IFN. While many basic features of the fish immune response to rhabdovirus infections are becoming better understood, much less is known about how factors in the environment affect the ecology of rhabdovirus infections in natural populations of aquatic animals.
Determinants of Length of Stay: A Parametric Survival Analysis
Authors: De Menezes António Gomes , Moniz Ana
Published: January 2012

Length of stay is one of the most important decisions made by tourists as it conditions their overall expenditure and stress caused on local resources. This article estimates survival analysis models to learn the determinants of length of stay as survival analysis naturally lends itself
to study the time elapsed between arrival and departure. It is found that sociodemographic profiles, such as nationality and gender, and trip attributes, such as repeat behavior, travel motive, and type of flight, are important determinants of length of stay. This article's results are important
to design marketing strategies that effectively influence length of stay.
Service Quality in the Airline Industry: Comparison Between Traditional and Low-Cost Airlines
Authors: Ahn Tae-Hong , Lee Timothy Jeonglyeol
Published: January 2012

The aim of this study is to assess service quality in the airline industry from the customer's perspective, explore how perceived service quality affects customer satisfaction and loyalty-related behavior, and whether the factors affecting service quality, customer satisfaction, and
loyalty differ between full-service and low-cost airlines. The data were collected through questionnaires based on previous research and 153 were completed by passengers who had traveled by air in the previous 6 months. Traditional airline passengers have significantly higher perceived service
quality and customer satisfaction. However, there is no significant difference in loyalty-related behavior. Overall service quality has significant influence on customer satisfaction in both traditional and low-cost airlines. However, the effect of service quality on behavioral intentions
is only significant for traditional airlines. The results suggest that management of traditional and low-cost airlines should maintain service quality as it affects customer satisfaction.
Interpreting Franchisors' Preferences in the Travel Agency Industry: The Case of Spain
Authors: Ramirez-Hurtado J. M. , Guerrero-Casas F. M. , Rondan-Cataluña F. J.
Published: January 2012

Travel agency industry is one of the most important and relevant activities of franchise in many countries. One key aspect necessary for the suitable development of the franchise system in any country is the expansion of the franchisors. For this challenge to be a success, the franchisors
must select the franchisees correctly. In this work the characteristics of potential franchisees preferred by franchisors are analyzed. A study was made in one of the most dynamic and important industries of the franchise system, that of travel agencies, and it used a combination of the methodologies
of conjoint analysis and principal component analysis. The results show the profile preferred by the franchisors and give a ranking of the most important characteristics that the franchisors look for in travel agency franchisees.
Shanghai's High-End Hotel Overcapacity in 2011 and Beyond: How Bad it Could be and Why?
Authors: Zheng Tianshu , Gu Zheng
Published: January 2012

Disregarding the oversupplied market, Shanghai's high-end hotel sector has been experiencing rapid expansions in past two decades, especially after the city won the bid to host the World Exposition 2010. New projects are in the pipeline and more developments are expected in the future.
This study attempts to identify the magnitude of overcapacity for Shanghai's four- and five-star hotels in the year of 2011 by forecasting monthly market demand and comparing the forecasts with expected monthly capacity. It also provides forecasted monthly demand on Shanghai's four- and five-star
hotels in the years of 2012 and 2013 to be used as references by stakeholders of the industry. In addition, this study attempts to provide the reasons behind the overcapacity and provides stakeholders with suggestions regarding future hotel developments in Shanghai. Box-Jenkins procedure was
used and Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) models were developed for the forecasting.
Predictors of Terrorism-Related Air Travel Reductions and Associated Tourism Impacts
Authors: Stickel Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2012

This study observes the potential decrease in air travel as a result of terrorist attacks in relation to individuals' sociodemographic variables and media usage. Drawing from a sample of 2,023 respondents in the 2008 General Social Survey data set, this study seeks to identify market
segments that have been most significantly impacted by terrorism events since September 11, 2001. Data are analyzed through direct logistic regression, resulting in a statistically significant model, χ2 (10, N = 685) = 25.40, p = 0.005. Results show two significant
predictors of a terrorist-based decision to reduce air travel: occupational prestige and gender. Conclusions reveal the sociodemographic profile defining the market segment that has reduced air travel because of terrorist activity. Finally, recommendations are provided for enhancing and delivering
marketing advertisements to this market segment.
The Economic Impact of a Heritage Tourism Attraction on a Rural Economy: The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Authors: Ha Inhyuck “Steve” , Grunwell Sandra S.
Published: January 2012

Cultural heritage tourism has emerged as both an important economic tool and marketing tool when seeking a competitive advantage in the tourism industry. This study examined the economic impact a heritage railway has on a regional rural economy, namely the Great Smoky Mountains railroad
(GSMr), a member of American heritage railways. Findings revealed the GSMr has exerted a profound effect on the region. It has contributed significantly to the regional economy, and has provided excellent value for the services rendered based on visitor satisfaction ratings. It has helped
to diversify the regions tourism offerings, enhance its uniqueness and revitalize its tourism industry. Results from this study will assist GSMr management in the future planning and development of its heritage railway train excursions and marketing strategies.
Culture as a Tourism Resource: The Case of North Cyprus (TRNC)
Authors: Debes Tacgey , Alipour Habib
Published: January 2012

The aim of this article is to highlight the cultural aspects and components of a Mediterranean island where tourism is the main economic sector. Today, tourism is the gateway to the global world, where culture and heritage is a significant part of the tourism product. There are numerous
studies indicating that cultural attractions are a fundamental motivation in a tourist's decision to visit a destination. This study attempts to answer the question whether or not tourism planners and policy makers are aware of cultural values as a motivating factor while, at the same time,
how do they go about upholding the values of cultural uniqueness in the context of the tourism industry, as well as in the society as a whole? What sort of plans/policies are in place to support or facilitate moving towards realizing these goals? An assumption made in this article is that,
if governments and tourism policy makers do not clearly define their cultural parameters and values, along with appropriate strategies to restore/sustain their authenticity, it is likely that most of the cultural uniqueness associated with a particular destination will be underutilized and
eventually lost. This, in itself, will undermine the product diversity of Northern Cyprus (formally known as the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus–TRNC), which is perceived or branded as nothing more than a sun, sea, sand destination. In this article a qualitative research strategy has
been employed and in-depth semistructured interview questions have been administered to the informants in numerous culturally involved institutions. The study revealed that, notwithstanding the rich cultural assets and abundance of its heritage, Northern Cyprus has not been able to develop
a clear strategy towards cultural and heritage planning for the purposes of tourists' consumption, and also for the purpose of upholding certain aspects of cultural capital essential for social and economic progress. The study revealed that the approach of both policy makers and institutions
have been superficial, and lack a fundamental understanding of the issues involved in achieving a sustainable harmony between culture as a tourism resource, and tourism as an economic tool.
Why the Gunarsa Art Museum Fails as a Tourism Attraction
Authors: Leiper Neil , Park Sun-Young
Published: January 2012

The Gunarsa Art Museum is Bali's distinctive cultural heritage exhibiting the world's largest collection of classical Balinese paintings. However it fails as a tourist attraction, receiving very few visitors and little income. In this study, a multidisciplinary approach is used to analyze
reasons for its failure based on observations, interviews, and theories on tourist attractions and strategic management. Potential solutions to revive and sustain the museum are also discussed. This study's approach can be applied to other cultural heritage sites where income from tourism
is crucial in the business model to understand and rectify failure factors, and to revitalize them.
Synthesis of fused tricyclic amines unsubstituted at the ring-junction positions by a cascade condensation, cyclization, cycloaddition then decarbonylation strategy
Authors: Coldham Iain , Burrell Adam J M , Guerrand Hélène D S , Watson Luke , Martin Nathaniel G , Oram Niall
Published: January 2012

Heating aldehydes that contain a protected hydroxymethyl group, a tethered alkyl chloride and a tethered alkenyl group at the α-position of the aldehyde with an amine sets up a cascade (tandem) reaction sequence involving condensation to an intermediate imine, then cyclization and formation of an intermediate azomethine ylide and then intramolecular dipolar cycloaddition. The fused tricyclic products are formed with complete or very high stereochemical control. The hydroxymethyl group was converted into an aldehyde – which could be removed to give the tricyclic amine products that are unsubstituted at the ring junction positions – or was converted into an alkene, which allowed the formation of the core ring system of the alkaloids scandine and meloscine.