bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Demand for Life Insurance Policy Loans
Authors: Liebenberg Andre P. , Carson James M. , Hoyt Robert E.
Published: April 2010

Abstract

Previous research has examined the demand for life insurance policy loans using aggregate policy loan data. In contrast, we use a detailed household survey data set containing life insurance and policy loan information to alternatively, and in some cases more directly, examine the four hypotheses traditionally associated with policy loan demand. Our research provides the first U.S. evidence (in the post–World War II period) in support of the policy loan emergency fund hypothesis. In particular, we find that the more detailed emergency fund proxies used here reveal a significantly positive relation between loan demand and recent expense or income shocks.
Structural Transition and Multiferroic Properties of Eu‐Doped BiFeO3 Thin Films
Authors: Hu Zhongqiang , Li Meiya , Liu Jun , Pei Ling , Wang Jing , Yu Benfang , Zhao Xingzhong
Published: April 2010

The Bi1−xEuxFeO3 (x=0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, and 0.30) thin films were grown by pulsed laser deposition on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates, and the effects of Eu content on the structure and multiferroic properties were investigated. A structural transition from rhombohedral R3c to orthorhombic Pbnm occurred in the film with x=0.15 due to the increase of the Eu content. Superior multiferroic properties were obtained in the film with x=0.10, giving a remanent polarization Pr=74 μC/cm2 and a coercive field Ec=250 kV/cm at an applied electric field E=560 kV/cm, a good antifatigue property, and a saturated magnetization Ms=3.5 emu/cm3. These significantly improved ferroelectric properties could be attributed to the appropriate lattice distortion and the lower leakage current due to the doping, while the enhanced ferromagnetism might be ascribed to the substitution‐induced suppression of the spiral spin modulation.
Unusual pattern of sex‐specific mortality in relation to initial brood sex composition in the black‐billed magpie Pica pica
Authors: Lee Sang‐im , Hwang Youna , Lee Jihoon , Choe Jae Chun
Published: April 2010

In sexually size‐dimorphic species, brood sex composition may exert differential effects on sex‐specific mortality. We investigated the sex‐specific mortality and body condition in relation to brood sex composition in nestlings of the black‐billed magpie Pica pica. Neither significantly sex‐biased production at hatching nor overall sex‐biased mortality during the nestling period was found. Sex‐specific mortality as a function of brood sex composition, however, differed between female and male nestlings. We found higher mortality for females in male‐biased broods and higher mortality for males in female‐biased broods, a phenomenon that we call ‘rarer‐sex disadvantage’. As a result, fledging sex ratios became more biased in the direction of bias at hatching, a phenomenon that cannot be readily explained by previous hypotheses for sex‐specific mortality. Two temporal variables, fledging date and laying date, were also correlated with sex‐specific mortality: female nestlings in earlier broods experienced higher mortality than male nestlings whereas male nestlings in later broods experienced higher mortality. We suggest that this unusual pattern of mortality may be explained by adaptive adjustments of brood sex composition by parents, either through the effects of a slight sex difference in offspring dispersal patterns on parental fitness, or owing to sex differences as regards the benefits of early fledging.
Investigator activities reduce nest predation in blackbirds Turdus merula
Authors: Ibáñez‐Álamo Juan Diego , Soler Manuel
Published: April 2010

The effect of investigator perturbance has been traditionally considered detrimental for avian nesting success in terms of enhanced nest predation. This conclusion was however based on a taxonomically biased group of species and, thus, the study of that effect in additional species was essential for reaching a more firm conclusion. Furthermore, although it has been suggested that the effect of nest visiting could also depend on nest predator community, no study has so far tested this hypothesis yet. Trying to detect possible influence of nest‐visiting rates and predator community on nesting success we visited European blackbird Turdus merula nests at two different experimental rates in two populations that considerably differ in the composition of their nest predator communities and natural nest predation rates. Contrary to the traditional ideas, our results not only show that investigator disturbance significantly reduces nest predation, but also that this reduction is maintained in both populations despite the difference in the community of nest predators. We discuss these findings and suggest that predators, especially mammals, might avoid places disturbed by investigators.
Eggshell characteristics and yolk composition in the common cuckoo Cuculus canorus: are they adapted to brood parasitism?
Authors: Hargitai Rita , Moskát Csaba , Bán Miklós , Gil Diego , López‐Rull Isabel , Solymos Emese
Published: April 2010

The developmental rate of cuckoo embryos and their hatching size is greater than that of host species, which may require more nutrient resources in the egg and more intensive gas exchange during development. In the present study, we compared various egg characteristics of a brood parasite, the common cuckoo Cuculus canorus, and its frequent host, the great reed warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus. As maternally‐derived testosterone is known to enhance growth rate of embryos and hatchlings, cuckoo eggs are expected to contain higher concentration of testosterone than host eggs. In addition, we expected higher concentration of antioxidants in cuckoo eggs to protect embryos from oxidative stress associated with accelerated growth. Our results showed that cuckoo eggs had thicker shells and higher pore density than great reed warbler eggs. Yolk was significantly heavier in cuckoo eggs and contained higher concentrations of carotenoids and vitamin E, however, yolk androgen and immunoglobulin concentrations were lower in cuckoo eggs as compared to great reed warbler eggs. We also examined whether eggshell colour was associated to egg quality, and detected a positive association between blue‐green chroma and yolk antioxidant concentration in both species, suggesting that eggshell colour reflects the antioxidant investment of the female into the eggs. Our results suggest that cuckoo females increase the size, growth rate and competitive ability of their young by providing them with more nutrients and more dietary antioxidants for embryonic development, and not through elevated yolk testosterone or antibody levels. In addition, increased porosity of cuckoo eggshells may allow embryos to develop more rapidly because of a greater capacity of gas exchange.
Phylogenetic relationships of Amazonetta, Speculanas, Lophonetta, and Tachyeres: four morphologically divergent duck genera endemic to South America
Authors: Bulgarella Mariana , Sorenson Michael D. , Peters Jeffrey L. , Wilson Robert E. , McCracken Kevin G.
Published: April 2010

We studied the phylogenetic relationships of four duck genera endemic to South America: Brazilian teal Amazonetta brasiliensis, spectacled duck Speculanas specularis, crested duck Lophonetta specularioides, and four species of steamer ducks Tachyerespatachonicus, T. leucocephalus, T. pteneres, T. brachypterus. Genetic divergence within and among species was compared using population‐level sampling of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region, supplemented with three additional mtDNA genes and six independent nuclear loci from one individual of each species and a variety of outgroup taxa. The monophyly of these four morphologically divergent South American genera was strongly supported. Within this clade, Amazonetta and Speculanas were supported as sister species in all analyses, but different gene regions yielded conflicting or ambiguous results for Lophonetta and Tachyeres. This lack of resolution resulted from little informative variation in nuclear loci and high levels of homoplasy in the mtDNA control region. Control region sequences from the four Tachyeres species fell into two distinct clades. In one clade, T. patachonicus and T. leucocephalus share a set of closely related haplotypes (≤0.6% sequence divergence); while no identical haplotypes were shared between species, the control region phylogeny was insufficiently resolved to either support or reject reciprocal monophyly. The second clade, ~1.7% divergent from the first, comprised haplotypes of the Falkland Islands species T. brachypterus and a captive individual of T. pteneres. These distinctive South American ducks likely experienced two bouts of rapid diversification, thus making analysis of their phylogenetic relationships difficult. Incomplete lineage sorting, founder effects, and perhaps introgression likely have contributed to obscuring the relationships among steamer ducks.
Blunt egg pole holds cues for alien egg discrimination: experimental evidence
Authors: Polačiková L. , Grim T.
Published: April 2010

Eggshell colour patterns play a crucial role in avian host–parasite coevolution. In contrast to many experiments investigating general host egg discrimination abilities, studies testing where specific recognition cues are located on the eggshells (on blunt, sharp or both egg poles) are lacking. Previous studies suggested that discrimination cues might be located at the blunt egg pole, where the shell patterning is typically concentrated. We tested this hypothesis experimentally in species subject to interspecific (great reed warblers Acrocephalus arundinaceus, reed warblers A. scirpaceus), and also intraspecific parasitism (song thrushes Turdus philomelos, blackbirds T. merula). We examined host responses towards two types of intraspecific eggs painted non‐mimetic immaculate blue either at blunt or sharp poles. All four species rejected eggs manipulated at the blunt pole at significantly higher rates, indicating that they perceive the critical recognition cues in the same egg part. Thus, the presence of egg recognition cues at the blunt egg pole may be a general phenomenon in birds parasitized by both intraspecific and interspecific parasites.
Adhesion pattern and growth of primary human osteoblastic cells on five commercially available titanium surfaces
Authors: Passeri Giovanni , Cacchioli Antonio , Ravanetti Francesca , Galli Carlo , Elezi Erida , Macaluso Guido M.
Published: April 2010

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the morphology and proliferation of human osteoblastic cells in vitro on five commercially available titanium surfaces.

Materials and methods: Human primary cells of the osteoblastic lineage were obtained from bone explants. The cells were plated on polished (T1), machined (T2), sand‐blasted/acid‐etched (T3), sand‐blasted/acid‐etched, modified with hydrogen peroxide rinse (T4), and plasma‐sprayed titanium (T5) disks. Cell morphology was studied after 6, 24, 72 h, 7 and 14 days of culture by scanning electron microscopy. The formation and distribution of focal adhesions was investigated by immunocytochemical staining at 3, 6 and 24 h. Cell growth was measured by an MTT assay after 3, 7 and 9 days of culture. Moreover, the production of osteocalcin and osteoprotegerin (OPG) was evaluated in the supernatants by ELISA.

Results: Morphological analysis revealed that substrate topography profoundly affected cells' shape and their anchoring structures. Large lamellipodia were formed on polished and machined surfaces, while thin filopodia were more frequently observed on T3 and T4 samples. Moreover, cells formed stronger focal adhesions on T3 and T4 surfaces, and cell proliferation was higher on rough surfaces. Osteocalcin production was higher on the T4 surface, whereas OPG steadily increased on every surface.

Conclusions: Taken together, these data show that all the surfaces allowed cell attachment, adhesion and proliferation, but T4 and T5 surfaces appeared to be a better substrate for the adhesion, proliferation and differentiation of cells of the osteoblastic lineage.

To cite this article:
 Passeri G, Cacchioli A, Ravanetti F, Galli C, Elezi E, Macaluso GM. Adhesion pattern and growth of primary human osteoblastic cells on five commercially available titanium surfaces. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 756–765. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01906.x
Influence of a microgrooved collar design on soft and hard tissue healing of immediate implantation in fresh extraction sites in dogs
Authors: Shin Soo‐Yeon , Han Dong‐Hoo
Published: April 2010

Objective: This study compared the alveolar bone reduction after immediate implantation using microgrooved and smooth collar implants in fresh extracted sockets.

Material and methods: Four mongrel dogs were used in this study. The full buccal and lingual mucoperiosteal flaps were elevated and the third and fourth premolars of the mandible were removed. The implants were installed in the fresh extracted sockets. The animals were sacrificed after a 3‐month healing period. The mandibles were dissected and each implant site was removed and processed for a histological examination.

Results: During healing, the marginal gaps in both groups, which were present between the implant and the socket walls at implantation, disappeared as a result of bone filling and resorption of the bone crest. The buccal bone crests were located apical of its lingual counterparts. At the 12‐week interval, the mean bone–implant contact in the microgrooved group was significantly higher than that of the turned surface group. From the observations in some of the microgrooved groups, we have found bone attachment to the 12 μm microgrooved surface and collagen fibers perpendicular to the long axis of the implants over the 8 μm microgrooved surface.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, microgrooved implants may provide more favorable conditions for the attachment of hard and soft tissues and reduce the level of marginal bone resorption and soft tissue recession.

To cite this article:
 Shin S‐Y., Han D‐H. Influence of microgrooved collar design on soft and hard tissue healing of immediate implantation in fresh extraction sites in dogs. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 804–814. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01917.x
In vivo degradation of collagen barrier membranes exposed to the oral cavity
Authors: Klinger Avigdor , Asad Rawi , Shapira Lior , Zubery Yuval
Published: April 2010

Objectives: The purpose of this human clinical trial was to compare the degradation profiles of three different collagen membranes under conditions mimicking exposure to the oral cavity.

Materials and methods: Three collagen membranes, ribose cross‐linked (RCL), glutaraldehyde cross‐linked (GCL), and non‐cross‐linked (NCL) were tested. The membranes were placed over the buccal mucosa of 20 human volunteers, apical to the gingival margins in the maxillary premolar and molar region. A periodontal dressing was placed over the membranes and secured in the interproximal spaces. The dressing was removed after 10 days, and membrane integrity was evaluated by two examiners using a Likert‐like grading scale (grades 1–5).

Results: Eight subjects withdrew from the study due to discomfort, pain, or dislodging of the pack. Of the three membranes tested, RCL appeared to be the most resistant to degradation (median grade 5), compared with GCL (2.25) and NCL (1.75).

Conclusions: Marked differences in membrane integrity were found between the three tested membranes after 10 days in the oral cavity. These differences may be part of the important factors determining the outcome of the regenerative treatment modality in cases of premature membrane exposure.

To cite this article:
 Klinger A, Asad R, Shapira L, Zubery Y. In vivo degradation of collagen barrier membranes exposed to the oral cavity. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 873–876. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01921.x
Bacteraemia following dental implants' placement
Authors: Piñeiro A. , Tomás I. , Blanco J. , Álvarez M. , Seoane J. , Diz P.
Published: April 2010

Objective: To investigate the prevalence, duration and aetiology of bacteraemias following the placement of implants as well as the prophylactic efficacy of a chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) mouthrinse.

Material and methods: Fifty patients undergoing implant placement were randomly distributed into two groups:

Control group: 30 patients with no prophylactic intervention before surgery.

CHX group: 20 patients who performed a 0.2% CHX mouthrinse before surgery.

Blood samples were collected at baseline, at 30 s after the insertion of implants and at 15 min after completion of the suturing of the mucoperiosteal flap. Samples were processed in the Bactec 9240, and the subculture and further identification of the isolates were performed using conventional microbiological techniques.

Results: The prevalence of bacteraemias was 2% at baseline. In the control group, the prevalence of bacteraemias was 6.7% at 30 s and 3.3% at 15 min, but no statistically significant differences were achieved compared with the baseline percentage. In the CHX group, there were no positive cultures from blood samples obtained at 30 s or at 15 min.

Conclusions: Implant placement via a mucoperiosteal flap does not carry a significant risk of developing bacteraemias. The use of antibiotic prophylaxis for the prevention of focal infections such as bacterial endocarditis in “at‐risk” patients undergoing dental implants is therefore questionable. Although its efficacy has not been confirmed statistically, we recommend a 0.2% CHX mouthrinse before treatment as proposed previously by the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy.

To cite this article:
 Piñeiro A, Tomás I, Blanco J, Álvarez M, Seoane J, Diz P. Bacteraemia following dental implants' placement. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 913–918. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01928.x
Is ED length of stay before ICU admission related to patient mortality?
Authors: Carter Angus W , Pilcher David , Bailey Michael , Cameron Peter , Duke Graeme J , Cooper Jamie
Published: April 2010

Objective:  To describe and identify the relationship between ED length of stay (LOS) and mortality after ICU admission.

Methods:  We undertook a retrospective cohort study of records from the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society Adult Patient Database (from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2006). Data from 45 hospitals and 48 803 ED patients directly transferred to ICU were included. Patients were divided into ED LOS < 8 h and ED LOS ≥ 8 h. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results:  Median ED LOS was 3.9 h (interquartile range 2.0–6.8). Patients transferred within 8 h (80.9%) were younger (P < 0.001) and more seriously ill (higher mortality and mechanical ventilation rate) than those transferred ≥8 h. There was no clear relationship between ED LOS and hospital survival for patients admitted directly to ICU (odds ratio = 1.01 per hour, 95% confidence intervals 0.99–1.02).

Conclusion:  Although 20% of critically ill patients spend more than 8 h in ED before transfer to ICU, we were unable to demonstrate an adverse relationship between time in ED and hospital mortality.
Hepatic portal venous gas in a patient with intestinal necrosis
Authors: Siswojo Andy , Ihle Benno U
Published: April 2010

This report describes a case of hepatic portal venous gas (HPVG) in a patient with intestinal ischaemia and necrosis resulting from an obstructing lesion in the sigmoid colon. CT images demonstrating a large amount of HPVG are presented.
Bowel perforations induced by multiple magnet ingestion
Authors: Lee Byung Kook , Ryu Hyun Ho , Moon Jeong Mi , Jeung Kyung Woon
Published: April 2010

We report two cases of bowel perforation that presented to the ED after ingesting multiple magnets as diagnosed with exploratory laparotomy. Foreign body ingestion is a common occurrence in the paediatric population. Diagnosis is often delayed because it is difficult to obtain a precise history of foreign body ingestion. Fortunately, in many cases, ingested foreign bodies pass spontaneously without complications. However, surgical intervention is required for about one percent of foreign body ingestions. Multiple magnet ingestion produces bowel injuries, including bowel obstruction, ischaemia, necrosis, perforation and fistula formation, finally requiring surgical intervention. The incidence, which is rare, of magnet ingestion with complications has increased as a result of the popularity of magnetic toys. This case report highlights the complications that might occur with multiple magnet ingestion. We aim to alert physicians that multiple magnet ingestion can be a serious matter.
Investigating moderate to severe paediatric trauma in the Auckland region
Authors: Couch Louise , Yates Kim , Aickin Richard , Pena Andres
Published: April 2010

Objective:  To investigate differences between paediatric patients with moderate to severe trauma admitted from two paediatric ED, with respect to: demographics, patterns of presentation, mechanism of injury, injury severity scores (ISS), interventions and outcome.

Method:  Retrospective cohort study. Moderate to severe trauma was defined as ISS >9. Paediatric patients admitted to hospital via Starship Children's Emergency or KidzFirst ED, with trauma from 1 May 2003 to 30 April 2004, with ISS >9 were identified using multiple databases. The charts were reviewed and data collected included: demographics, hospital of first presentation, diagnoses, ISS, Paediatric trauma score (PTS), Glasgow coma score (GCS), ventilator hours, length of admission, survival and discharge destination. Descriptive statistics with 95% confidence intervals, Mann–Whitney U‐test, χ2‐test and Fisher's exact test were used as appropriate.

Results:  A total of 393 children with moderate to severe trauma were identified using initial search strategies. Of these, 82 children met the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study; 42 children were admitted via KidzFirst ED and 40 via Starship Children's ED. There was no statistically significant difference in ISS (P= 0.86), PTS (P= 0.11), GCS (P= 0.62), hours on a ventilator (P= 0.28) and length of stay (P= 0.87) between children admitted from Starship or KidzFirst ED.

Conclusion:  This study suggests that there are no differences in the numbers or severity of paediatric trauma patients admitted from the Starship and KidzFirst ED. This indicates triage is to the closest ED despite having a tertiary referral centre for paediatric trauma available in Auckland City.
Endothelin-1 Induces Contraction of Female Rat Internal Pudendal and Clitoral Arteries through ETA Receptor and Rho-Kinase Activation
Authors: Allahdadi Kyan J. , Hannan Johanna L. , Tostes Rita C. , Webb R. Clinton
Published: April 2010

Introduction

Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a potent vasoconstrictor peptide, acts mainly through the Gprotein-coupled ETA receptor (ETAR). Increased vascular ET-1 production and constrictor sensitivity have been observed in various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, as well as erectile dysfunction. The internal pudendal artery (IPA) supplies blood to the vagina and clitoris. Inadequate blood flow through the IPA may lead to insufficient vaginal engorgement and clitoral tumescence.

Aim

Characterize the effects of ET-1 on the IPA and clitoral artery (CA).

Methods

IPA and CA from female Sprague Dawley rats (225–250 g) were mounted in myograph chambers. Arterial segments were submitted to increasing concentrations of ET-1 (10-10-10-6 M). Segments were incubated with the ETAR antagonist, atrasentan (10-8 M) or the Rho-kinase inhibitor, Y-27632 (10-6 M) 30 minutes prior to agonist exposure. All Emax values are expressed as % KCl-induced maximal contraction. ETAR, RhoA, and Rho-kinase expression from IPA was evaluated by Western blot. mRNA of preproET-1, ETAR, ETBR, RhoA, and Rho-kinase were measured by real time PCR.

Main Outcome Measures

ET-1 constrictor sensitivity in IPA and CA, protein expression and messenger RNA levels of ET-1-mediated constriction components.

Results

ET-1 concentration-dependently contracted IPA (% Contraction and pD2, respectively: 156 ± 18, 8.2 ± 0.1) and CA (163 ± 12, 8.8 ± 0.08), while ETAR antagonism reduced ET-1-mediated contraction (IPA: 104 ± 23, 6.4 ± 0.2; CA: 112 ± 17, 6.6 ± 0.08). Pretreatment with Y-27632 significantly shifted ET-1 pD2 in IPA (108 ± 24, 7.9 ± 0.1) and CA (147 ± 58 and 8.0 ± 0.25). Protein expression of ETAR, ETBR, RhoA, and Rho-kinase were detected in IPA. IPA and CA contained preproET-1, ETAR, ETBR, RhoA, and Rho-kinase message.

Conclusion

We observed that the IPA and CA are sensitive to ET-1, signaling through the ETAR and Rho-kinase pathway. These data indicate that ET-1 may play a role in vaginal and clitoral blood flow and may be important in pathologies where ET-1 levels are elevated.
IMPROVING THE PREDICTION FOR SENSORY TEXTURE ATTRIBUTES FOR MULTICOMPONENT SNACK BARS BY OPTIMIZING INSTRUMENTAL TEST CONDITIONS
Authors: GREVE PATRICK , LEE YOUNG SEUNG , MEULLENET JEAN‐FRANCOIS , KUNZ BENNO
Published: April 2010

Ten instrumental variables derived from a variety of five test probes (three‐point bending, needle, 2‐mm/6‐mm cylinder compression and small blade shear) and five deformation rates ranging from 5 to 100 cm/min were used to predict the sensory texture attributes for 16 commercial snack bars. Hardness, crispness, brittleness and hand‐evaluated hardness were selected as relevant texture attributes and evaluated from a descriptive analysis by 10 trained panelists. To determine the optimal instrumental test conditions (test probes and deformation rate) for the prediction of each sensory attribute, various model statistics based on partial least squares regression were used. The blade exhibited high predictive abilities, showing validation coefficient determination (Rval) greater than 0.8 for all the sensory attributes evaluated. The results display that, provided the correct instrumental conditions are set, a valuable improvement in the prediction of sensory attributes by instrumental variables can be achieved.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Textural attributes are important drivers of liking for snack bar products. The food industry has made a great deal of efforts in optimizing instrumental methodologies for their routine quality control, especially for texture measurements to maintain consumer acceptance. Therefore, a reliable prediction of sensory attributes derived from the instrumental variables is a crucial issue for the successful launch of instrumental analysis in industrial applications. To satisfactorily predict sensory texture attributes, the optimization of instrumental settings is of uttermost importance.
MULTIGRAIN BREAD – ITS DOUGH RHEOLOGY, MICROSTRUCTURE, QUALITY AND NUTRITIONAL CHARACTERISTICS
Authors: INDRANI D. , SOUMYA C. , RAJIV JYOTSNA , VENKATESWARA RAO G.
Published: April 2010

Effect of replacement of wheat flour with 5, 10, 15 and 20% multigrain mix (MGM) prepared by combining soya bean, oats, fenugreek seeds, flaxseed and sesame seeds on rheological and bread‐making characteristics of wheat flour was studied. Use of increasing amount of MGM from 0 to 20% increased farinograph water absorption, caused disruption of protein matrix, decreased volume and increased crumb firmness value showing adverse effect of MGM on the volume and texture of bread. Addition of combination of additives to wheat flour with 15% MGM brought about significant improvement in the dough strength and overall quality of the bread. The protein, fat and dietary fiber contents of bread with 15% MGM was 1.5, 5.0 and 2.5 times higher than the control. The results showed that bread with improved quality characteristics and perceptible taste of multigrains could be produced by adding 15% MGM and combination of additives.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Multigrain breads are breads made with multiple grains, legumes and seeds. These breads are more nutritious, richer in flavor and tastier than normal bread. This article discusses the effect of replacement of wheat flour with a mix consisting of soya bean, oats, fenugreek seeds, flaxseed and sesame seeds on the dough properties and the quality of bread. This paper also highlights the improvement brought about by the addition of combination of additives on the rheological and bread‐making quality of wheat flour with 15% multigrain mix. This information will have a practical application in the production of acceptable quality multigrain bread having typical grainy taste and improved nutritional characteristics in large scale.
Using next‐generation sequencing for molecular reconstruction of past Arctic vegetation and climate
Authors: SØNSTEBØ J. H. , GIELLY L. , BRYSTING A. K. , ELVEN R. , EDWARDS M. , HAILE J. , WILLERSLEV E. , COISSAC E. , RIOUX D. , SANNIER J. , TABERLET P. , BROCHMANN C.
Published: April 2010

Palaeoenvironments and former climates are typically inferred from pollen and macrofossil records. This approach is time‐consuming and suffers from low taxonomic resolution and biased taxon sampling. Here, we test an alternative DNA‐based approach utilizing the P6 loop in the chloroplast trnL (UAA) intron; a short (13–158 bp) and variable region with highly conserved flanking sequences. For taxonomic reference, a whole trnL intron sequence database was constructed from recently collected material of 842 species, representing all widespread and/or ecologically important taxa of the species‐poor arctic flora. The P6 loop alone allowed identification of all families, most genera (>75%) and one‐third of the species, thus providing much higher taxonomic resolution than pollen records. The suitability of the P6 loop for analysis of samples containing degraded ancient DNA from a mixture of species is demonstrated by high‐throughput parallel pyrosequencing of permafrost‐preserved DNA and reconstruction of two plant communities from the last glacial period. Our approach opens new possibilities for DNA‐based assessment of ancient as well as modern biodiversity of many groups of organisms using environmental samples.
Les arts : valeurs refuge ou accord futur ?
Authors: Dufrêne Thierry
Published: April 2010

Thierry Dufrêne prend pour point de départ la phrase d’Hannah Arendt, selon laquelle « toute discussion sur la culture doit de quelque manière prendre comme point de départ le phénomène de l’art ». L’auteur avait mis l’accent sur la nécessité qu’a chaque culture de négocier avec les autres sa propre conception de ce qu’elle appelle beauté. Elle avait également rappelé la formule d’André Malraux, qui se déclarait incertain sur l’avenir de l’art contemporain, mais convaincu que « l’art des métamorphoses » avait commencé. Reprenant l’idée des métamorphoses, Thierry Dufrêne pose la question des bouleversements de l’art face à la crise des valeurs, à l’accélération des techniques de communication, et à la marchandisation et la médiatisation croissantes. L’art est‐il devenu une simple marchandise ? Même s’il est partout célébré, peut‐on encore le voir, l’entendre et le comprendre ?
Décoloniser l’esprit : le travail de l’imagination créatrice
Authors: Nettleford Rex
Published: April 2010

L’article traite de la décolonisation des esprits dans les pays en voie de développement, qui peinent à faire admettre leur dignité et leur différence, et àêtre ainsi reconnus au sein de la communauté mondialisée. Dans ce contexte, l’art revêt une signification particulière en ce qu’il peut encourager les résistances les plus profondes et s’opposer à la dilution des identités, des spécificités et des appartenances. Or l’enseignement artistique est encore trop peu développé dans nombre de ces pays. Si de nombreux artistes vivent aux Caraïbes, il faut encore étendre l’acquisition des connaissances, des savoir‐faire et du savoir‐vivre ensemble pour libérer l’énergie créatrice.
Nomenclatural notes on the genus Paraphlomis (Lamiaceae: Lamioideae) from China
Authors: Xiang Chun‐Lei , Liu En‐De , Peng Hua
Published: April 2010

Lectotypes of Paraphlomis albiflora (Hemsl.) Hand.‐Mazz. and Paraphlomis gracilis (Hemsl.) Kudô are designated. The name Paraphlomis javanica (Blume) Prain var. angustifolia C. Y. Wu & H. W. Li ex C. L. Xiang, E. D. Liu & H. Peng is validated by a type designation.
Using species distribution models to identify suitable areas for biofuel feedstock production
Authors: EVANS JASON M. , FLETCHER ROBERT J. , ALAVALAPATI JANAKI
Published: April 2010

The 2007 Energy Independence and Security Act mandates a five‐fold increase in US biofuel production by 2022. Given this ambitious policy target, there is a need for spatially explicit estimates of landscape suitability for growing biofuel feedstocks. We developed a suitability modeling approach for two major US biofuel crops, corn (Zea mays) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), based upon the use of two presence‐only species distribution models (SDMs): maximum entropy (Maxent) and support vector machines (SVM). SDMs are commonly used for modeling animal and plant distributions in natural environments, but have rarely been used to develop landscape models for cultivated crops. AUC, Kappa, and correlation measures derived from test data indicate that SVM slightly outperformed Maxent in modeling US corn production, although both models produced significantly accurate results. When compared with results from a mechanistic switchgrass model recently developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), SVM results showed higher correlation than Maxent results with models fit using county‐scale point inputs of switchgrass production derived from expert opinion estimates. However, Maxent results for an alternative switchgrass model developed with point inputs from research trial sites showed higher correlation to the ORNL model than the corresponding results obtained from SVM. Further analysis indicates that both modeling approaches were effective in predicting county‐scale increases in corn production from 2006 to 2007, a time period in which US corn production increased by 24%. We conclude that presence‐only methods are a powerful first‐cut tool for estimating relative land suitability across geographic regions in which candidate biofuel feedstocks can be grown, and may also provide important insight into potential land‐use change patterns likely to be associated with increased biofuel demand.
A simple and innovative method for species identification of phytoplankton cells on minute quantities of DNA
Authors: Masseret Estelle , Enquebecq Marjorie , Laabir Mohamed , Genovesi Benjamin , Vaquer André , Avarre Jean‐Christophe
Published: April 2010

Dinoflagellates belonging to the genus Alexandrium are often involved in harmful algal blooms. Their ecological exploration is thus essential to increase our knowledge on these toxic events. Yet, population genetic studies, taxonomic identification and environmental monitoring are hampered by major constraints: the necessity to establish monoclonal cultures from environmental samples and the sensitivity of available molecular tools. The present work describes a very simple and sensitive method for extraction and amplification of DNA at the infra‐single‐cell level. Its on‐slide format allows for easy visual control of both quality and quantity of the templates. Combined with a semi‐multiplex PCR protocol designed on the 18S‐28S rDNA‐ITS region of Alexandrium catenella and Alexandrium tamarense, this procedure allowed the identification and discrimination of these species from both monoclonal cultures and natural samples.
La comptabilité pour les investissements en actions des compagnies d'assurance‐vie*
Authors: BOYLE PHELIM P.
Published: April 2010

Résumé. Cet article traite de la comptabilité pour les investissements en actions d'une compagnie d'assurance‐vie. On y analyse différentes procédures permettant de comptabiliser des changements non réalisés dans les valeurs du marché des titres de son portefeuille d'investissements. Ces procédures s'échelonnent de la comptabilisation directe des valeurs du marché à la méthode couramment utilisée par les compagnies canadiennes d'assurance‐vie et qui consiste en un lissage complet. On propose des statistiques sommaires qui décrivent les propriétés des chiffres comptables obtenus à partir des diverses procédures de lissage. On considère ces statistiques sommaires comme étant des moyens compacts et économiques de résumer les effets des procédures pour des lecteurs d'états financiers. La deuxième partie de l'article décrit comment un groupe d'utilisateurs particulier peut obtenir une classification des possibilités comptables. On suggère le processus analytique de hiérarchie (Saaty 1980) pour combiner les jugements de différentes personnes dans un groupe de préférence. On illustre par une petite étude‐pilote la faisabilité de la méthode pour classifier diverses propositions concernant le traitement comptable des investissements en actions des compagnies d'assurance‐vie.
The effect of information presentation structures on audit planning and review judgments*
Authors: BORITZ JEFIM EFRIM
Published: April 2010

Abstract. This study examines the effect of data structuring techniques on audit judgments by comparing responses based on information cues arranged according to a hierarchically structured template with the response to identical cues arranged in a simple list.

Forty auditors, at five different levels of expertise, reviewed the audit strategy of a hypothetical senior and provided evaluations of the original plan, a revised set of plans, and reports of their difficulty in making the required judgments. The experimental task involved 16 cases, in which types of transaction processing systems (i.e., manual and computerized), and internal control cues, were manipulated in addition to the format of presenting information.

Structure of information presentation appears to play a significant role in the evaluations and plans of the auditors, but is considered to contribute substantially to the difficulty of making judgments. In most cases, structure appears to contribute to uniformity of responses; but, in some instances it actually seems to exaggerate differences in auditors' judgments.

Résumé. Cette étude examine l'effet des techniques de structure des données sur les jugements en vérification, en comparant les réponses basées sur une information organisée de façon hiérarchique avec les réponses basées sur la même information organisée selon la structure d'une liste simple.

Quarante vérificateurs de cinq niveaux de compétence différents, ont révisé la stratégie de vérification d'une chef d'équipe hypothétique et ont présenté des évaluations du plan original, d'un ensemble de plans révisés et ont fait rapport de leur difficulté en rendant les jugements requis. L'expérience comportait 16 cas dans lesquels des types de systèmes de traitement (i.e. manuels et informatisés) et des éléments de contrôle devaient être pris en considération en plus du format de présentation de l'information.

La structure de présentation de l'information semble jouer un rôle significatif dans les évaluations et les plans des vérificateurs et contribue de façon importante à la difficulté de rendre des jugements. Dans la plupart des cas, la structure de présentation de l'information semble contribuer à l'uniformité des réponses; dans certains cas cependant, elle semble exagérer les différences dans les jugements des vérificateurs.
Distinguishing the two forms of the constant percentage learning curve model
Authors: CHEN JOYCE T. , MANES RENE P.
Published: April 2010

Abstract. There is often evidence of confusion between two forms of the constant percentage learning curve model: the cumulative average and the individual unit forms. Failure to distinguish between the two models can lead to their misuse and to potentially serious errors of estimation. A precise statement of the difference between the two clarifies the errors of misspecification. This note provides an analytical comparsion of the two models and addresses empirical estimation issues.

Résumé. On a souvent la preuve de la confusion entre deux formules de modèle de la courbe d'apprentissage à pourcentage constant: celle de la moyenne cumulative et celle de l'unité individuelle. Le fait de ne pas distinguer les deux modèles peut conduire à une mauvaise utilisation et éventuellement à de sérieuses erreurs d'estimation. Un examen précis de la différence entre les deux peut clarifier les erreurs de spécification. Cet article présente une comparaison analytique des deux modèles et traite des questions d'estimation empirique.
Of paradigms and metaphors in auditing thought*
Authors: DIRSMITH MARK W. , COVALESKI MARK A. , MCALLISTER JOHN P.
Published: April 2010

Abstract. Assumptions serve as the basis from which we reason and therefore pervasively influence the nature of our understanding of any substantive area. Auditing is no exception. Yet, the core assumptions that underlie auditing thought have largely been left unexamined.

The purpose of this paper is to examine the core ontological assumptions, (assumptions as to the primitive elements of what constitutes reality), and epistemological assumptions, (assumptions as to how knowledge is attained), that underlie contemporary auditing thought. It is concluded: 1) that auditing is characterized by an overwhelming domination of a functionalist paradigm, which views reality as concrete and objective (rather than uncertain and subjective) and which emphasizes a regularized, patterned existence (rather than one characterized by intrinsic tension and contradiction); and 2) that this paradigm ultimately influences and constrains our understanding of auditing. Alternative paradigms are used to examine the concepts of audit evidence and auditor consensus to dramatize the effects of making alternative assumptions of reality. Implications for practitioners and for researchers are also explored.

Résumé. Les hypothèses servent de fondement à nos raisonnements et par conséquent, influencent l'essence de notre compréhension de tout domaine. La vérification n'est pas une exception et les hypothèses essentielles qui sous‐tendent la pensée en vérification, n'ont pas vraiment été examinées.

L'objectif de cet article est d'examiner les hypothèses essentielles ontologiques (hypothèses concernant les éléments primitifs de ce qui constitue la réalité) et les hypothèses épistémologiques (hypothèses relatives au comment de l'atteinte de la connaissance) qui sous‐tendent la pensée contemporaine en vérification. On y conclut: 1) que la vérification est caractérisée par une domination écrasante d'un paradigme fonctionnel qui voit la réalité comme étant concrète et objective (plutôt qu'incertaine et subjective) et qui met l'emphase sur une existence régularisée et modelée (plutôt qu'une existence caractérisée par la contradiction et une tension intrinsèque); et 2) que ce paradigme influence et contraint ultimement notre compréhension de la vérification. Des paradigmes alternatifs sont utilisés pour examiner les concepts d'information probante et de consensus du vérificateur afin de dramatiser les effets d'utiliser des hypothèses alternatives de la réalité. Les implications pour les practiciens et les chercheurs sont également considérées.
Audit planning: an algorithmic approach*
Authors: AHITUV NIV , HALPERN JONATHAN , WILL HART
Published: April 2010

Abstract. A major task in audit planning is the design of a proper evaluation procedure for the existing accounting and internal control system. In an era when most accounting systems are “engineered” and computerized, a structured “systems approach” can replace the traditional audit planning methods with formal algorithms to assure that the evaluation is economical and within time and resource constraints.

This paper combines the concepts of reliability modeling of internal control systems with those of sequential covering in mathematical programming and provides an algorithm for audit planning in two situations: (1) a dichotomous, deterministic condition where each control mechanism can either operate properly or fail, and (2) a probabilistic situation in which probabilities of success and failure are considered. The objective function is the minimization of audit cost in the first case and is the minimization of expected audit cost in the second one. In addition to the optimization effect achieved by applying the algorithm, a “stopping rule” is defined for the termination of the audit investigation.

Résumé. Une tâche importante dans la planification en vérification est de concevoir une procüdure d‘évaluation appropriée pour le système de contrôle interne comptable considéré. Dans une ère où la plupart des systèmes comptables sont “machinés” et informatisés, une “approche système” structurée peut remplacer les méthodes traditionnelles de planification en vérification par des algorithmes formels, afin de donner l'assurance que l’évaluation est économique et à l'intérieur des contraintes de temps et de ressources.

Cet article combine les concepts de la fiabilité du modelage des systèmes de contrôle interne avec ceux de couverture séquentielle en programmation mathématique, et présente un algorithme pour la planification en vérification dans deux situations: (1) une condition dichotomique et déterministique où chaque mécanisme de contrôle peut soit fonctionner correctement ou ne pas fonctionner, et (2) une situation probabilistique où l'on considère les probabilitès de succès et d‘échec. La fonction “objectif” est de minimiser le coût de la vérification dans le premier cas et de minimiser le coût prévu de la vérification dans le deuxième cas. En plus de l'effet d'optimisation atteint par l'utilisation de l'algorithme, on définit une “règle de fin de vérification” visant à mettre fin à la vérification.
Slack budgeting, information distortion and self‐esteem*
Authors: BELKAOUI AHMED
Published: April 2010

Abstract. A week after taking a self‐esteem test, subjects were provided with false feedback (either positive or negative) and neutral feedback about their self‐esteem score. They were then asked to make two budgeting decisions, one cost estimate first and then one sales estimate for a fictional budgeting decision. In general, the individuals who were provided with information which temporarily caused them to lower their self‐esteem were more apt to distort input information than those who were made to raise their self‐esteem. It is concluded that, whereas slack budgeting may be consistent with generally low self‐esteem feedback, it is inconsistent with generally high or neutral self‐esteem feedback.

Résumé. Une semaine après avoir subi un test d'estime de soi, on a présenté aux sujets un faux “feedback” (soit positif ou négatif) et un “feedback” neutre relativement aux résultats de leur test. On leur a alors demandé de prendre deux décisions budgétaires dans une situation fictive: la première sur une estimation de coûts et la deuxième sur une estimation de ventes. En général, les individus qui recevaient l'information qui temporairement les amenait à diminuer leur estime de soi, étaient plus aptes à déformer l'information reçue que ceux qui étaient amenés à augmenter leur estime de soi. On conclut, qu'un budget qui a du jeu, peut être compatible avec les “feedback” qui sont généralement du type faible estime de soi, et non compatible avec les “feedback” qui sont généralement du type haute ou neutre estime de soi.