bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential conformational dynamics in two type-A RNA-binding domains drive the double-stranded RNA recognition and binding
Authors: Parvez Firdousi , Sangpal Devika , Paithankar Harshad , Amin Zainab , Chugh Jeetender
Published: February 2024

Trans-activation response (TAR) RNA-binding protein (TRBP) has emerged as a key player in the RNA interference pathway, wherein it binds to different pre-microRNAs (miRNAs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), each varying in sequence and/or structure. We hypothesize that TRBP displays dynamic adaptability to accommodate heterogeneity in target RNA structures. Thus, it is crucial to ascertain the role of intrinsic and RNA-induced protein dynamics in RNA recognition and binding. We have previously elucidated the role of intrinsic and RNA-induced conformational exchange in the double-stranded RNA-binding domain 1 (dsRBD1) of TRBP in shape-dependent RNA recognition. The current study delves into the intrinsic and RNA-induced conformational dynamics of the TRBP-dsRBD2 and then compares it with the dsRBD1 study carried out previously. Remarkably, the two domains exhibit differential binding affinity to a 12-bp dsRNA owing to the presence of critical residues and structural plasticity. Furthermore, we report that dsRBD2 depicts constrained conformational plasticity when compared to dsRBD1. Although, in the presence of RNA, dsRBD2 undergoes induced conformational exchange within the designated RNA-binding regions and other residues, the amplitude of the motions remains modest when compared to those observed in dsRBD1. We propose a dynamics-driven model of the two tandem domains of TRBP, substantiating their contributions to the versatility of dsRNA recognition and binding.
Functional characterization of all CDKN2A missense variants and comparison to in silico models of pathogenicity
Authors: Kimura Hirokazu , Lahouel Kamel , Tomasetti Cristian , Roberts Nicholas J.
Published: February 2024

Interpretation of variants identified during genetic testing is a significant clinical challenge. In this study, we developed a high-throughput CDKN2A functional assay and characterized all possible
CDKN2A
missense variants. We found that 40% of all missense variants were functionally deleterious. We also used our functional classification to assess the performance of in silico models that predict the effect of variants, including recently reported models based on machine learning. Notably, we found that all in silico models similarly when compared to our functional classifications with accuracies of 54.6 – 70.9%. Furthermore, while we found that functionally deleterious variants were enriched within ankyrin repeats, rarely were all missense variants at a single residue functionally deleterious. Our functional classifications are a resource to aid the interpretation of
CDKN2A
variants and have important implications for the application of variant interpretation guidelines, particularly the use of in silico models for clinical variant interpretation.
Mechanical force of uterine occupation enables large vesicle extrusion from proteostressed maternal neurons
Authors: Wang Guoqiang , Guasp Ryan J , Salam Sangeena , Chuang Edward , Morera Andrés , Smart Anna J , Jimenez David , Shekhar Sahana , Friedman Emily , Melentijevic Ilija , Nguyen Ken C , Hall David H , Grant Barth D , Driscoll Monica
Published: February 2024

Large vesicle extrusion from neurons may contribute to spreading pathogenic protein aggregates and promoting inflammatory responses, two mechanisms leading to neurodegenerative disease. Factors that regulate the extrusion of large vesicles, such as exophers produced by proteostressed C. elegans touch neurons, are poorly understood. Here, we document that mechanical force can significantly potentiate exopher extrusion from proteostressed neurons. Exopher production from the C. elegans ALMR neuron peaks at adult day 2 or 3, coinciding with the C. elegans reproductive peak. Genetic disruption of C. elegans germline, sperm, oocytes, or egg/early embryo production can strongly suppress exopher extrusion from the ALMR neurons during the peak period. Conversely, restoring egg production at the late reproductive phase through mating with males or inducing egg retention via genetic interventions that block egg-laying can strongly increase ALMR exopher production. Overall, genetic interventions that promote ALMR exopher production are associated with expanded uterus lengths and genetic interventions that suppress ALMR exopher production are associated with shorter uterus lengths. In addition to the impact of fertilized eggs, ALMR exopher production can be enhanced by filling the uterus with oocytes, dead eggs, or even fluid, supporting that distention consequences, rather than the presence of fertilized eggs, constitute the exopher-inducing stimulus. We conclude that the mechanical force of uterine occupation potentiates exopher extrusion from proximal proteostressed maternal neurons. Our observations draw attention to the potential importance of mechanical signaling in extracellular vesicle production and in aggregate spreading mechanisms, making a case for enhanced attention to mechanobiology in neurodegenerative disease.
Xenon ameliorates chronic post-surgical pain by regulating mitophagy in microglia and rats mediated by PINK1/Parkin pathway
Authors: Lv Hu , Huang Jiaojiao , Zhang Xin , He Zhiyong , Zhang Jun , Chen Wei
Published: February 2024

Background

Chronic post-surgical pain (CPSP) is one of the important causes of poor postoperative outcomes, the activation of microglia in the spinal cord is closely related to the generation, transmission and maintenance of CPSP. Xenon (Xe), an anesthetic gas, has been reported to be able to significantly reduce intraoperative analgesia and postoperative pain sensation at low doses. However, the mechanism of the regulatory effect of xenon on activated microglia after CPSP remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, CPSP model rats were treated with 50% Xe inhalation for 1 h following skin/muscle incision and retraction (SMIR), once a day for 5 consecutive days, and then the painbehavioraltests (pain behavior indexes paw withdrawal mechanical threshold, PWMT and thermal withdrawal latency, TWL), microglial activation, oxidative stress-related indexes (malondialdehyde, MDA; superoxide dismutase, SOD; hydrogen peroxide, H2O2; and catalase, CAT), mitophagy and PINK1/Parkin pathway were examined.

Results

The present results showed that a single dose of Xe treatment in SMIR rat model could significantly improve PWMT and TWL in the short-term at a single treatment and long-term at multiple treatments. Xe treatment inhibited microglia activation and oxidative stress in the spinal dorsal horn of SMIR rats, as indicated by the decrease of Iba1 and MDA/H2O2 levels and the increase of SOD/CAT levels. Compared with the control group, Xe further increased the CPSP promoted Mito-Tracker (a mitochondrial marker) and LC3 (an autophagy marker) co-localization positive spots and PINK1/Parkin/ATG5/BECN1 (autophagy-related proteins) protein expression levels, and inhibited the Mito-SOX (a mitochondrial reactive oxygen species marker) positive signal, indicating that Xe promoted microglia mitophagy and inhibited oxidative stress in CPSP. Mechanistically, we verified that Xe promoted PINK1/Parkin signaling pathway activation.

Conclusion

Xe plays a role in ameliorating chronic post-surgical pain by regulating the PINK1/Parkin pathway mediated microglial mitophagy and provide new ideas and targets for the prevention and treatment of CPSP.
The margin of stability is affected differently when walking under quasi-random treadmill perturbations with or without full visual support
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Xie Haoyu , Chien Jung H.
Published: February 2024

Background

Sensory-motor perturbations have been widely used to assess astronauts’ balance in standing during pre-/post- spaceflight. However, balance control during walking, where most falls occur, was less studied in these astronauts. A study found that applying either visual or platform oscillations reduced the margin of stability (MOS) in the anterior-posterior direction (MOSap) but increased MOS in the medial-lateral direction (MOSml) as a tradeoff. This tradeoff induced an asymmetric gait. This study extended the current knowledge to investigate overall stability under unpredictable environments. This study aimed to determine (1) whether quasi-random treadmill perturbations with or without full vision support would result in a significant reduction in MOSap but an increase in MOSml and (2) regardless of whether vision support was provided, quasi-random treadmill perturbations might result in asymmetric gait patterns.

Methods

Twenty healthy young adults participated in this study. Three experimental conditions were semi-randomly assigned to these participants as follows: (1) the control condition (Norm), walking normally with their preferred walking speed on the treadmill; (2) the treadmill perturbations with full vision condition (Slip), walking on the quasi-random varying-treadmill-belt-speeds with full vision support; and (3) the treadmill perturbations without full vision condition (Slip_VisionBlocked, blackout vision through customized vision-blocked goggles), walking on the quasi-random varying-treadmill-belt-speeds without full vision support. The dependent variables were MOSap, MOSml, and respective symmetric indices. A one-way repeated ANOVA measure or Friedman Test was applied to investigate the differences among the conditions mentioned above.

Results

There was an increase in MOSap in Slip (p = 0.001) but a decrease in MOSap in Slip_VisionBlocked (p = 0.001) compared to Norm condition. The MOSml was significantly greater in both Slip and Slip_VisionBlocked conditions compared to the Norm condition (p = 0.011; p < 0.001). An analysis of Wilcoxon signed-rank tests revealed that the symmetric index of MOSml in Slip_VisionBlocked (p = 0.002) was greater than in the Norm condition.

Conclusion

The novelty of this study was to investigate the effect of vision on the overall stability of walking under quasi-random treadmill perturbations. The results revealed that overall stability and symmetry were controlled differently with/without full visual support. In light of these findings, it is imperative to take visual support into consideration while developing a sensory-motor training protocol. Asymmetric gait also required extra attention while walking on the quasi-random treadmill perturbations without full vision support to maintain overall stability.
Livestock Risks and Indemnity Insurance in the West Region, Cameroon
Authors: Oben Emmanuel Ebai Enow , Ndi Humphrey Ngala , Tchuikoua Louis Bernard
Published: February 2024

Several risks threaten poultry and pig farming in the West Region of Cameroon. Notwithstanding, the absence of insurance has limited farmers’ risk management options and prevented them from bouncing back rapidly from significant losses. This research explores poultry and pig farming risks and the implications for farming insurance schemes in the West Region of Cameroon. To achieve this, 430 poultry and pig farmers were sampled through a cluster and snowball sampling technique in the Mifi, Bamboutos, Upper-Plateau and Koung-Khi Divisions. The risks farmers faced were assessed as low, medium and high, depending on their likelihood of occurrence and potential impact. Farmers' experiences of livestock losses supported this information. Data on the risks farmers would like to get insurance for was analysed using descriptive statistics. Research results revealed that 75% of risks faced by poultry farmers are ranked low, while 25% are medium. For pig farmers, 64% of risks are low, 27% are medium, and 9 % are high. Diseases (epidemic and non-epidemic) and market/price risks are among the top three risks pig and poultry farmers face. Many farmers are willing to get insurance for epidemic diseases (31.5%) and non-epidemic diseases (26.6%). Most farmers in the Bamboutous Division are more willing to get insurance for non-epidemic diseases (54.5%) and epidemic diseases (32.8%). Comparatively, farmers in the Mifi Division are more willing to get insurance for epidemic diseases (46.7%) and less for non-epidemic diseases (1.5%). Insurance companies can start piloting a disease and market/price fall insurance scheme in the Mifi and Bamboutos Divisions. These companies can create awareness of the importance of livestock insurance through the Interprofessional Association of Pig Farmers and the Interprofessional Association for Poultry Farmers in the West Region.
Exploring the Landscape of Entrepreneurial Behavior among Farmers: A Bibliometric Analysis Using the Dimension Research Database
Authors: Yadav Pradeep Kumar , Mishra N. K.
Published: February 2024

This bibliometric analysis utilizes the Dimension research database to explore publications on entrepreneurial behavior among farmers. Examining metadata such as publication titles, authors, keywords, and citation counts, the study identifies significant journals, trends, and authors in this domain. Initial findings reveal a growing interest in the entrepreneurial dimension of farming, with co-authorship and term co-occurrence studies highlighting thematic landscapes and collaborative patterns. Through a citation analysis, impactful papers are discerned, and journal evaluations provide insights into their individual contributions. The study, drawing on Dimension's extensive dataset, offers a concise yet comprehensive summary of the current state of research on farmers' entrepreneurial activity. Noteworthy concentrations of interest are observed in fields like Commerce, Management, Tourism, and Services. Top author and co-authorship analyses showcase influential contributors and multidisciplinary collaboration. The visual representation of a comprehensive citation analysis illustrates intricate connections among organizations. This research delivers valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the evolving discourse on entrepreneurial behavior among farmers and its implications for agricultural sustainability and development.
Determining Factors of Behavioral Intention to use Digital Payment QRIS at Traditional Market in Purwokerto
Authors: Rahayu Tri Septin Muji , Budiningsih Sulistyani , Purwidianti Wida
Published: February 2024

Aims: This research aims to identify variables that are determinants or factors that influence behavioral intentions to use QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) in the Purwokerto traditional market.

Study Design: The research population is the people of Purwokerto who transact in traditional markets.  The sampling method uses accidental sampling and the sample size in this study was 100 respondence. Data was collected by distributing questionnaires both online and in person.

Methodology: The study used the SPPS 26 vertion analysis tool. The analytical method uses multiple linear regression analysis.

Results: The results of the analysis that performance expectations, social influence, and facilitating conditions variables have a significance effect on behavioral intention to use digital payment QRIS, while variable effort expectations have no significantly affect on behavioral intention to use digital payment QRIS.
Beyond Shelter: Exploring the Roots of Homelessness in Nepal through Multifaceted Lens of Social and Demographic Dynamics
Authors: Parajuli Shivaraj , Silwal Uma Kant
Published: February 2024

Nepal identifies as the country of diversity and three belts (Mountain, Hills and Terai) all together in same county. Sociological views are important to analyze the numerous aspects. Homelessness is a global issue striking Nepal left challenges to the policy makers to understand and manage Urban-Rural issues. This study aims to identified the reason of homeless in Nepal. A longitudinal study covering all seven-Provinces were designed to analysis. A Qualitative-Quantitative study design trailed intruded self-structured questionnaires covering 399 Questions from staff members of the homeless center were collected. Further, FGD with the Homeless people was conducted to verify the fact of the homeless in the centers and KII interview with different Government and private organizations was done to obtain the field reality. Homeless causes due to the onset of floods/ landslides, fire, mega-earthquake of 2015 surge the number in Nepal. The lack of education noticed the prime reason within the homeless peoples. Managing homeless is challenging- district authority through police sent peoples to the respective centers to care. The children less than 16 years are listed high followed by old age and adults respectively. The health and social issues are another vital reason of homelessness. The study concluded as homeless primarily lack of education as well as social, political, cultural and many other domestic cases are concern to it. From the Sociological lens, the policy debate and service providing are the best approach to manage in future. Public and private effort are a must to manage and run the homeless issues.
Investigating the Performance of Different Varieties of Cucumber under Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Condition
Authors: Salman Mohd , Bahadur Vijay
Published: February 2024

Nine cucumber varieties were evaluated at the vegetable research farm Department of Horticulture SHUATS, Prayagraj in randomized block design with three replications during rainy seson September -2022 for growth, yield and fruit qualities. The experimental design was Randomized Block Design consisting of   nine treatment with three replications, with a view to evaluate different cultivars of cucumber viz. KH10 GREEN LONG(T1), F999(T2), C4F9(T3), SS95(T4), CUCUMBER GREEN WONDER(T5), BH05(T6), PRIYA BARSATI(T7), ANUPRIYA(T8), GREEN 4 BARSATI(T9). Cucumber Green Wonder  gave maximum  mean value for  fruits per  plant  (5.20 kg) , fruit weight (174.33 g), fruit yield per plot  (39.33 kg), number of node per vine (15.33) yield   (42 q) , number of male  flower per plant (65.00) , number at which first female flower  (5.33) was observed in same varieties , maximum numbers of male flowers per plant  in variety  Cucumber Green Wonder (65.00) maximum length has been found in Cucumber Green Wonder (151.67) Minimum days were recorded for first Appearance of male flower in KH 10 Green Long  (51.67). The variety Green 4 Barsati has taken minimum (48.00) days to first harvesting followed by F999 (53.00). cucumber green wonder was found superior based on overall performance in terms of growth, yield, quality & Economic returns. The highest cost benefit ratio was found for cucumber variety Cucumber Green Wonder under PrayagrajAgroclimate condition.
The Influence of the Clinical Pharmacist in the Management of Depression: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chao Barbara Mendes Paz , Razera Amanda , Lopes Maria Fernanda , Grosko Suellen Aparecida , Machado Amanda Makohin , Cordeiro Maria Elvira Ribeiro , Camargo Luciana Erzinger Alves de , Tortorella Catiuscie Cabreira da Silva , Bini Ana Carolina Dorigoni
Published: February 2024

Background: Mental disorders are among the top ten causes of overload in health systems worldwide. Although traditional pharmaceutical interventions have proven effective in treating depression, the role of the pharmacist in personalized pharmaceutical care for depressed patients is still an emerging area of research and clinical practice, which may be even more effective.

Methods: This study aimed to perform an integrative literature review using the NCBI/PubMed and EMBASE databases, in articles published until the year 2023, according to pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results: 360 publications were identified. Following the eligibility criteria, 210 duplicate publications were excluded and 145 were discarded because they did not meet the pre-established eligibility criteria. Thus, 5 original articles from 3 countries were included in the present study.

Conclusion: According to the publications analyzed, it is demonstrated that depression has better response when there is pharmaceutical intervention, as well as multiprofessional. It is noted that factors such as adherence to treatment, control of adverse events related to medications, and quality of life of the patient are directly influenced by the intervention of the clinical pharmacist.
Vitamin C Supplementation Lowered Atherogenic Lipid Parameters among Oil and Gas Workers Occupationally Exposed to Petroleum Fumes in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: George-Opuda, I. M  , Etuk, E.J  , Elechi-Amadi, K. N  , Okolonkwo, B. N  , Adegoke, O. A.  , Ohaka, T. P.  , Elekima, I.
Published: February 2024

Aim: To evaluate the effect of vitamin C supplementation on lipid profile parameters among oil and gas workers occupationally exposed to petroleum fumes through inhalation over a period of 12 months.

Study Design: A total of 150 subjects between the age ranges of 18 to 45 years old were recruited for the study of which 50 subjects were exposed to petroleum fumes and were given vitamin C supplementation (group1), 50 were also exposed to petroleum without vitamin C (Group 2) and 50 subjects are non-oil and gas workers (control subjects).

Methodology:  The Group 1 subjects were orally administered vitamin C supplements of 100mg/day for 60 days before sample collection while Group 2 subjects exposed to petroleum fumes were not given vitamin C or took vitamin during the period of the study. The control subjects were non-oil and gas workers. At the end of the experiment (60 days), blood specimens were collected from group 1, group 2, and the control subjects.  Lipid parameters such as cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and very low-density lipoprotein were analysed using enzymatic methods. Statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism and results were expressed as Mean±SD.

Results: The results indicated significantly higher values in total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and very low-density lipoprotein in the petroleum fumes exposed subjects compared to control subjects except for high-density lipoprotein which indicated significantly lower values. When those exposed were given vitamin C supplementation, there was a significant reduction in the lipid parameters except HDL-C which indicated a significantly higher value compared with those exposed without vitamin C supplementation administered orally at 100mg for 60 days at P=.05.

Conclusion: The study has shown that occupational exposure to petroleum fumes is associated with dyslipidaemia.  However, the use of 100mg of vitamin C daily for 60 days ameliorated the degree of dyslipidaemia associated with occupational exposure to petroleum fumes. Vitamin C could be considered as a preventive means to mitigate or ameliorate cardiovascular risks due to occupational exposure to petroleum fumes and products among workers.
The Role of Organisational Commitment in Mediating Employee Work Behavior as Organisational Culture in the ATVI Environment
Authors: Andrian Pieter , Tecoalu Melitina , Ingratubun Adrian
Published: February 2024

This research aims to determine whether Organisational Commitment plays a role in mediating the influence of Organisational Culture and Work Environment on Organisational Citizenship Behavior at the Indonesian Television Academy. This research was conducted at the Indonesian Television Academy. The sampling technique used in this research is a saturated sampling technique, because the number of samples in this research is the entire population of Indonesian Television Academy employees as the educational academy is going to be transformed into higher level educational institution. The data analysis method used is multiple linear analysis. The results of this research are that there is an influence of Organisational Culture on Organisational Commitment, there is an influence of the Work Environment on Organisational Commitment, there is an influence of Organisational Commitment on Organisational Citizenship Behavior. Organisational Commitment mediates the influence of Organisational Culture on Organisational Citizenship Behavior and Organisational Commitment mediates the influence of the Work Environment on Organisational Citizenship Behavior.
Comparative Evaluation of the Physico-Chemical Characterization of Native and Modified Starches from Jackfruit, Corn and Cassava as Potential Additives in Drilling Fluid
Authors: Adewumi C. N. , James J. O. , Ogwuda U. A.
Published: February 2024

The physicochemical properties of starches determine their industrial application, and modification have shown further improvement on the properties of starch. Hence, the physicochemical properties of modified starches obtained from jackfruit were analyzed and compared with native jackfruit (JF), corn (MN) and cassava (CN) starches to determine their usability as additives in drilling fluid formulation. Starch from jackfruit pulp was chemically modified with two carboxymethylation methods (JC1 & JC2) and acetylation method (JA). The physicochemical properties were assessed using Scanning Electron Microscopy, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Thermogravimetric analysis to determine their effectiveness to improve JF properties. The results revealed that at 90 °C, JC2 was found to have the highest swelling power and water holding capacity when compared with other modified and native starches. The result of the thermal properties of the starches showed that JC2 produced better thermal properties with the peak gelatinization temperature in the decreasing trend JC2>JC1>JF>MN>JA>CN. The SEM result showed that modification reduced the particle size of the starches thereby increasing the surface area of the starches for better reactivity than the native jackfruit, corn and cassava starches. The thermal stability of the starches showed that modification by carboxymethylation (JC1 and JC2) improved the stability of the starches while the reverse was the case for JA. In comparison with corn and cassava, the modified starches JC1 and JC2, performed excellently in all the properties analyzed. The possession of the highest swelling power, highest water holding capacity, highest thermal stability and excellent gelatinization temperature of 90 ℃ (Tp) places JC2 above other modification methods thereby making it a potential replacement for corn and cassava as an additive in drilling fluid formulation.
Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis to Determine Interrelationships among Grain Yield and its Components in Maize Genotypes (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Kumar G. Praveen , Sunil N. , Sekhar J. C. , Chary D. Srinivasa
Published: February 2024

Aim: A study was carried out to evaluate the magnitude of correlation between grain yield and its various contributing characters.

Methodology: 39 genotypes of maize, comprising 31 hybrids and 8 parents, were assessed using randomized block design with three replications. The data recorded on twelve quantitative characters including days to 50 percent tasseling, days to 50 percent silking, days to maturity, plant height (cm), ear height (cm), ear length (cm), ear diameter (cm), number of kernel rows per ear, number of kernels per row, 100 kernel weight, shelling percentage and grain yield per plant.

Results: The results of this study showed higher genotypic correlation coefficient for all the characters studied compared to the corresponding phenotypic correlation coefficient. This suggests that, despite the strong inherent association between the traits under study, environments’ influence masked its expression. Ear diameter was found to have a strong and significant positive correlation with grain yield per plant at phenotypic (0.9016) and (0.9540) genotypic level followed by ear length (0.8976, 0.9360), number of kernels per row (0.8905, 0.9247), plant height (0.8399, 0.8697), 100 seed weight (0.8070, 0.8544), ear height (0.7170, 0.7550) and number of kernel rows per ear (0.3240, 0.3901). Days to 50% silking and days to 50% tasselling, however, exhibited significant negative association with grain yield, while days to maturity showed non-significant negative. In path coefficient analysis the maximum positive direct effect on grain yield per plant was found by the ear diameter (0.3505), followed by the 100 seed weight (0.2362), ear length (0.2273), number of kernels per row (0.1827), days to 50% silking (0.1269), and shelling percentage (0.1223).

Conclusion: The strong correlation of ear diameter, 100 seed weight, ear length and number of kernels per row (0.2971) with grain yield per plant appears to be mostly due to their high direct effects. Therefore, improving yield could be achieved through direct selection for these attributes.
The Effect of Ethical Behavior Strategy on Job Voice, Work Ethics as an Interactive Variable: An Applied Study in the Basra South Oil Company
Authors: Atti Liqaa Mutter
Published: February 2024

Ethical behavior and work ethics are among the topics that have received great attention in recent years because of their clear impact on business organizations, as these organizations have begun to work in a continuous movement to issue regulations and ethical codes to form and formulate their goals and principles in a way that frames the ethical responsibility of the organization as well as the extent of their impact on voice performance. career of these organizations After the financial and profit aspect was the goal of business organizations, today they focus on ethical aspects. Rather, organizations seek to outperform competitors by using ethical standards and principles as a criterion for competition. They also determined their impact on the performance of the job voice of employees and the extent to which these standards are reflected in their individual and collective decisions and principles. Therefore, the importance of the study aims to diagnose the extent of the impact of ethical behavior on job performance through work ethics in the South Oil Company / Basra. The study is an applied study in the South Oil Company / Basra. The descriptive analytical statistical approach was adopted, and a questionnaire was prepared and distributed with the aim of testing the study hypotheses. Several questionnaires were distributed to the sample, and a strong direct relationship was found between the variables of the study. One of the most important conclusions reached by the study is that ethical behavior greatly affects job performance, organizational atmosphere, improving relations between employees and senior management, and enhancing trust through adopting work ethics and effective behaviors.
Molecular image‐processing devices based on chemical reaction systems. I: General principles for implementation
Authors: Rambidi N. G. , Maximychev A. V. , Usatov A. V.
Published: May 2005

Potentialities for implementing simple neural information‐processing devices based on chemical and biochemical dynamical media are discussed. Pilot ‘hardware’ models of neural molecualr devices that able to perform image‐processing operations were constructed.
Cerebral hypnogenic centers
Authors: Bremer Frédéric
Published: May 2005

Active cerebral processes can initiate and maintain sleep in mammals. Two distinct hypnogenic structures have been documented in the cat: the nucleus of the solitary tract in the medulla and a region in the basal preoptic area. Their electrical or pharmacological activation results in behavioral and EEG sleep. Both can be activated and inhibited in relation to circulatory or thermic homeostasis and to endocrine regulations, or in conditioned paradigms.

Bilateral destruction or functional elimination of either hypnogenic region is followed by increased vigilance and insomnia. The tonic influence so revealed is increased by the serotonergic raphe nuclei of the pontine region, which is considered to be hypnotonic rather than hypnogenic. Postsynaptic inhibition of the ascending activating reticular system by the hypnogenic centers is involved in sleep onset and maintenance. Electrophysiological evidence is presented that indicates a mutual tonic inhibitory interaction between the brainstem arousal system and the preoptic hypnogenic center. Such reciprocal inhibitory interaction can facilitate the onset of sleep by a positive‐feedback mechanism. In spite of the fact that this retroaction results in break of physiological equilibrium, it should be considered a homeostatic process aimed at maintaining the functional fitness of the forebrain neuronal circuits.
Metastatic tumor of the brain: Development of an experimental model
Authors: Ushio Yukitaka , Chernik Norman L. , Shapiro William R. , Posner Jerome B.
Published: May 2005

The injection of a suspension of Walker 256 carcinoma cells into the carotid artery of rats produced a model of hematogeneously spread cerebral metastases. Most animals died from massive extracerebral tumors of the head and jaw; brain tumors were present in only one‐qaurter. External carotid artery ligation prior to tumor inoculation did not increase the incidence of fatal brain tumor. When cyclophosphamide, 15 mg/kg, was injected as a single doese on the fourteenth day after tumor inoculation, most of the extracerebral tumor disappeared. Fifty percent of the animals so treated were cured of tumor, but 90% of the remainder died of large intracerebral tumors. Severe cytopathic changes resulting from cyclophosphamide were present in extracerebral or choroid plexus tumors but were mild or nonexistent in intracerbral tumors. These selective effects of cyclophosphamide suggest that water‐soluble agents are less effective against tumor in the brain than against extracerebral tumors despite the fact that metastatic tumor breaks down the blood‐brain barrier.
Hemiballismus with lesion of the subthalamic nucleus and neuroaxonal degeneration of the homolateral substantia nigra
Authors: Segal Ricardo , Sroka Hava , Sandbank Uri , Kott Edna
Published: May 2005

A 72‐year‐old farmer developed vigorous hemiballistic movements on the right side of his body. The patient died three and one‐half months later. Postmortem examination revealed hemorrhage and encephalomalacia of the left subthalamic nucleus and neuroaxonal degeneration of the left substantia nigra. The hemiballism had not been suppressed despite the presence of a combined lesion.
Enzymatische Eliminierung von Ammoniak aus Histidin und Phenylalanin: der Friedel‐Crafts‐ähnliche Mechanismus
Authors: Poppe László , Rétey János
Published: May 2005

Die erstaunlich hohe katalytische Aktivität und Selektivität von Enzymen manifestiert sich einerseits in einer Beschleunigung der Zielreaktion und andererseits in der Unterdrückung alternativer Reaktionswege, die ohne das betreffende Enzym kinetisch kompetitiv oder sogar dominant wären. Histidin‐ und Phenylalanin‐Ammoniak‐Lyasen (HALs und PALs) z. B. bewirken eine Abspaltung des nicht‐aciden β‐Protons dieser Aminosäuren, ohne das weitaus acidere Ammonium‐Proton anzutasten. Beide Ammoniak‐Lyasen enthalten eine katalytisch wichtige elektrophile Gruppe, die während dreißig Jahren für Dehydroalanin gehalten wurde. Die Röntgenkristallstruktur von HAL ließ jedoch eine andere elektrophile Gruppe erkennen, nämlich 5‐Methylen‐3,5‐dihydroimidazol‐4‐on (MIO), die UV‐spektroskopisch auch in PAL nachgewiesen wurde. Kürzlich ermittelte Röntgenkristallstrukturen von PAL aus Rhodosporidium toruloides und Petrosilenum crispum bestätigten das Vorliegen der MIO‐Gruppe. Experimente legen nahe, dass die Reaktion durch einen elektrophilen Angriff von MIO auf den aromatischen Ring des Substrates gestartet wird. Diese Friedel‐Crafts‐ähnliche Reaktion aktiviert das β‐Proton und führt zu seiner stereospezifischen Abspaltung mit nachfolgender Eliminierung von Ammoniak und Regenerierung der MIO‐Gruppe. Die Plausibilität eines solchen Mechanismus wird durch ein synthetisches Modell gestützt. Diskutiert wird außerdem die Anwendung der PAL‐Reaktion in der biokatalytischen Synthese von enantiomerenreinen α‐Amino‐β‐arylpropionaten aus Arylacrylaten.
Friedel–Crafts‐Type Mechanism for the Enzymatic Elimination of Ammonia from Histidine and Phenylalanine
Authors: Poppe László , Rétey János
Published: May 2005

The surprisingly high catalytic activity and selectivity of enzymes stem from their ability to both accelerate the target reaction and suppress competitive reaction pathways that may even be dominant in the absence of enzymes. For example, histidine and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyases (HAL and PAL) trigger the abstraction of the nonacidic β protons of these amino acids while leaving the much more acidic ammonium hydrogen atoms untouched. Both ammonia‐lyases have a catalytically important electrophilic group, which was believed to be dehydroalanine for 30 years but has now been revealed by X‐ray crystallography and UV spectroscopy to be a highly electrophilic 5‐methylene‐3,5‐dihydroimidazol‐4‐one (MIO) group. Experiments suggest that the reaction is initiated by the electrophilic attack of MIO on the aromatic ring of the substrate. This incomplete Friedel–Crafts‐type reaction leads to the activation of a β proton and its stereospecific abstraction, followed by the elimination of ammonia and regeneration of the MIO group. The plausibility of such a mechanism is supported by a synthetic model. The application of the PAL reaction in the biocatalytic synthesis of enantiomerically pure α‐amino β‐aryl propionates from aryl acrylates is also discussed.
Degradation profiles of polyester–urethane (hydroxylated polyester/diphenylmethane diisocyanate) and polyester–melamine (hydroxylated polyester/hexamethoxymethylmelamine) coatings: An accelerated weathering study
Authors: Narayan Ramanuj , Chattopadhyay D. K. , Sreedhar B. , Raju K. V. S. N. , Mallikarjuna N. N. , Aminabhavi T. M.
Published: May 2005

The successful material performance of coatings depends on the environmental conditions to which they are exposed. The effects of the diol structure and acetoacetylation on the weathering degradation of hydroxylated polyester (HP)/hexamethoxymethylmelamine and HP/diphenylmethane diisocyanate clear coatings were studied. The acetoacetylation of HPs led to better performance for higher application solids than the acetoacetylation of their base counterparts. Weathering degradation profiles were investigated with dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The structural variations of the building blocks and acetoacetylation were found to be important for enhancing the stability of coatings at higher application solids. Polyester–urethane coatings were more stable toward weathering than polyester–melamine coatings. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 1069–1081, 2005
Preparation of crosslinked composite nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Wen‐Fang , Guo Zhao‐Xia , Yu Jian
Published: May 2005

Crosslinked composite nanoparticles were prepared by adding a trifunctional monomer (trimethyol propane trimethacrylate) or a difunctional monomer (divinyl benzene) as a crosslinker into the emulsion polymerization system of styrene in the presence of inorganic nanosilica. A coupling agent, 3‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS), was added along with the monomer, crosslinker, and silica to improve the interfacial interaction between silica and polymer and thus to obtain high binding efficiency. The role of MPS was examined. The effects of crosslinkers on the kinetics of emulsion polymerization, monomer conversion, and yield were investigated. The morphology of the composite particles was observed by TEM. The particle size and size distribution of composite latex particles were measured by the dynamic light scattering method. The binding efficiency and swelling ratio were determined by reluxing the sample in xylene using a Soxhlet extraction apparatus. FTIR spectra and TGA verified the participation of crosslinker and silica. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 1538–1544, 2005
An automated approach to the analysis of the arrangement of post‐pits at Stanton Drew
Authors: Linford P. K.
Published: May 2005

After the surprising discovery of concentric arrangements of post‐pits within the megalithic stone circles at Stanton Drew in Somerset, it was decided to map their geometry using an automated approach. The algorithm developed relies on the use of correlation registration to allow the locations of pit anomalies to be identified automatically. Concentric circular arrangements of pits are then classified using a modified Hough transform, adapted to detect circular rather than linear patterns. Finally the co‐ordinates of the centres of all pits identified as lying on the same circle are extracted and fed to an algorithm that determines the parameters of the circle of best fit by the method of least squares. The result is an objective determination of the parameters of the nine concentric circles of pits within the Great stone circle and three circles within the south‐southwest stone circle, which it is hoped will help inform the interpretation of the monument. Although the computational procedures described represent a solution to the analysis of a possibly unique data set, it is hoped that elements of the method might provide ideas for techniques that can be generalized for other applications. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of ASTER satellite imagery in archaeological contexts
Authors: Altaweel Mark
Published: May 2005

Multispectral ASTER satellite imagery has recently become available for scholarly research. The overall bandwidth and spatial resolution of the system give it an advantage over older Landsat satellites. In northern Mesopotamia, modern day north Iraq, hollow ways, sites and canals have all been located using the ASTER system. This system has proven to be useful in both verifying results found in CORONA satellite data and locating potential archaeological features that cannot be easily distinguished on CORONA imagery. Spectral signatures and visual manipulation can both be used to assist in the identification of distinct feature types. Reflectance information obtained from imagery can also be checked with ASTER's spectral library. With proper analytical methods applied, significant benefits for landscape archaeology can be achieved. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Complementary integrated geophysical investigation around Al‐Zayyan temple, Kharga oasis, Al‐Wadi Al‐Jadeed (New Valley), Egypt
Authors: Atya M. A. , Kamei H. , Abbas A. M. , Shaaban F. A. , Hassaneen A. Gh. , Alla M. A. Abd , Soliman M. N. , Marukawa Y. , Ako T. , Kobayashi Y.
Published: May 2005

Qasr Al‐Zayyan or Al‐Zayyan temple in Al‐Kharga oasis is documented as a node in the fortress chain that was built by the Romans to secure Darb Al‐Arbain; the slaver's trade caravan route between Asyuit and Sudan. The historical and archaeological background of the temple is very scarce; it has been ascribed to Amenebis and was restored during the reign of Emperor Antoninus AD 138–161. In March 2001, an integrated ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) and magnetic survey to the west of the temple showed the possibility of an existing structural complex intersecting the present temple at about 45°. It was interpreted as a multigate structure or a tomb complex. In March 2002, the relative topographic elevations were measured and the surface archaeological features were marked on a map. Also a complementary integrated geophysical survey including electromagnetic, geomagnetic and GPR was conducted along northern and western extensions of, and partially covering, the formerly prospected structure in the survey of 2001. It was designed to verify the structure, to define its extent on both the northern and western sides, and to decide about a possible excavation.

The results verified the formerly prospected structure of 2001; some of its particular features have been detected. The structure therefore has been mapped over the surveyed area at the northern and western parts of the 2001 structure and it might extend wider than the surveyed area. The former proposition of a multigate structure becomes stronger because of its general appearance, and the idea of a tomb complex still exists owing to the presence of some depressions thought to be graves. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Airborne multi‐spectral prospection for buried archaeology in mobile sand dominated systems
Authors: Winterbottom S. J. , Dawson T.
Published: May 2005

Much of the UK's potential archaeological resource is under threat from coastal erosion. Undiscovered sites are often lost or damaged by erosion before rescue excavation can take place. This project tested the use of multispectral remote sensing for detecting archaeological features in mobile sand‐dominated systems, which are common on the western and northern coasts and islands around the UK. Airborne multispectral data were collected for a number of coastal areas on the Islands of Coll and Tiree. A range of data processing techniques were used to enhance the data for visual interpretation, which highlighted potential features for further inspection in the field. Features that were successfully detected by the methods used included enclosures, cairns, relict field boundaries and cultivation/soil marks, buried walls and buried structures. Multispectral remote sensing provides an extremely useful tool which can be used to significantly enhance the archaeological record, although further work is required to test the techniques under a range of conditions. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring a prehistoric site for remains of human structures by three‐dimensional seismic tomography
Authors: Polymenakos L. , Papamarinopoulos S. P.
Published: May 2005

Seismic tomography is applied in the exploration of the subsurface of a prehistoric site for remains of human structures. Prehistoric sites are important for accessing information on human history in times of limited written evidence. Knowledge of the subsurface character and pattern of possible structural remains can be of great help in excavation design and assessment. A case history of the application of seismic tomography at Palamari prehistoric site, Skyros Island, Aegean Sea, Greece, is presented. Energy sources and recorders are placed on the ground surface. Travel time data are analysed and processed with three‐dimensional tomographic inversion software. Seismic velocity images of the subsurface are constructed. Modelling of the subsurface is used to improve the interpretation and assist in the evaluation of the significance and reliability of the results. Velocity variations are known to correlate well with the lithological character of the earth materials, thus providing important structural and lithological information of the subsurface. The results show a good correlation, in terms of location, geometry and dimensions, with expected and excavated real dimensions and pattern of the foundation and near‐surface structure. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Automated identification of technologically similar organizations
Authors: Breitzman Anthony
Published: May 2005

This article introduces and validates a method for identifying technologically similar organizations, industries, or regions by applying the techniques from information science for term similarity to international patent classifications. Several applications of the method are explored, including identifying hidden competitive threats, finding potential acquisition targets, locating university expertise within a technology, identifying competitor strategy shifts, and more. One advantage of the method is that it is size invariant, meaning, for example, that it is possible for a huge corporation to identify smaller firms in its space before they become significant competitors. Another advantage is that technologically similar organizations can be identified on a large scale without any particular knowledge of the technology or business of either source organizations or target organizations.