bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fusion on Citrus Image Data from Cold Mirror Acquisition System
Authors: Li Peilin , Lee Sang-Heon , Hsu Hung-Yao
Published: March 2013

In this paper, an image fusion is presented to improve the citrus identification by filtering the incoming data from two cameras. The citrus image data has been photographed by using a portable bi-camera cold mirror acquisition system. The prototype of the customized fixture has been manufactured to position and align a classical cold mirror with two CCD cameras in relative kinematic position. The algorithmic registration on the pairwise images has been bypassed by both the spatial alignment of two cameras with recourse of software calibration and the triggering synchronization in temporal during the photographing. The pairwise frames have been fused by using the Daubechies wavelets decomposition filters. The pixel level fusion index rule is proposed to combine the low pass coefficients of the visible image and the low pass coefficients of the near-infrared image convoluted by the complementary of entropy filter from the visible low pass coefficients. In the study, the fused artifact color image and the non-fused color image have been processed and compared by some classification methods such as low dimensional projection, self-organizing map and the support vector machine.
A Vulnerability-Based Model of Cyber Weapons and its Implications for Cyber Conflict
Authors: Czosseck Christian , Podins Karlis
Published: March 2013

Throughout history, mankind has developed and employed novel weapons and countermeasures. Both offensive and defensive weapon systems are limited by the laws of nature. Consequently, military concepts and doctrines were designed by implicitly taking into account those limitations. The digital age has introduced a new class of weaponry that poses an initial challenge to the common understanding of conflict and warfare due to their different characteristics: cyber weapons. This article explores the crucial differences between the conventional weapon and cyber weapon domains, starting a debate as to what extent classical concepts and doctrines are applicable to cyberspace and cyber conflict. The authors propose a definition of cyber weapons being an instrument consisting primarily of data and knowledge, presenting them in the form of prepared and executed computer codes on or a sequence of user interactions with a vulnerable system. The authors describe a vulnerability-based model for cyber weapons and for cyber defence. This model is then applied to describe the relationship between cyber-capable actors (e.g. States). The proposed model clarifies important implications for cyber coalition-building and disarmament. Furthermore, it presents a general solution for the problem of the destruction of cyber weapons, i.e., in the context of cyber arms control.
Securing America Against Cyber War
Authors: McCune Jayson , Haworth Dwight A.
Published: March 2013

This paper expands on one aspect of Clarke and Knake’s (2010) recommendation for defending the United States’ Internet infrastructure from external attack. First it summarizes the threat that has been demonstrated in the recent past. Included are a number of data compromises that have been traced to servers in China. Also identified are potential physical attacks against facilities that employ supervisory control networks, with the Stuxnet virus being a recent example. Lastly, the fact that malware has been planted on computers in the electric power grid for later use makes an ability to block the command messages or the remote login sequence an absolute necessity. The paper identifies the 12 entry points into the United States’ Internet and, following Clarke and Knake’s (2010, p. 196) suggestion, specifies a firewall platform for those entry points. The total one-time cost for this defensive effort is estimated and found to be feasible. Finally, limitations of this approach are considered.
Using Geographic Information Systems to Analyze the Distribution and Abundance of Aedes aegypti in Africa
Authors: Behrens Jess Joseph Wetherilt , Moore Chester G.
Published: March 2013

Increasing attention is being paid to the impact of global climate change on yellow fever and dengue outbreaks. While useful, these studies neglect the role that travel may play in the distribution of Aedes aegypti, the primary vector of both viruses. Even less attention has been paid to the role travel patterns play in affecting the ecology of this vector. To help refocus the debate and illustrate how geographic information systems (GIS) can assist analysis, a global study of Ae. aegypti was digitized. Subsequently, several basic and advanced analyses of the surveys located in Africa were undertaken. Publicly available road data for the continent were included, along with recently published LandScan population data. A novel method for examining correlations within the data at various distances was developed. These correlations were then substantiated using Monte Carlo simulation techniques and found to be significant at p<0.001.
An Empirical Analysis of Antecedents to the Assimilation of Sensor Information Systems in Data Centers
Authors: Alaraifi Adel , Molla Alemayehu , Deng Hepu
Published: March 2013

This paper is concerned with studying the antecedents to and the assimilation of sensor information systems (SIS) in Data Centers. Using the Technology Organization and Environment Framework as a guide and drawing from the Natural resource based view and Diffusion of Innovation theories and five case studies, the paper builds a theoretical framework to investigate the factors that explain the assimilation (diversity and intensity) of SIS. The framework is tested based on data collected from a survey of 107 Data Centers. The findings show that the compatibility of SIS, knowledge of Data Centre managers, green data centre orientation and pressure from peers in the industry affect the assimilation of SIS to manage the facility, power and cooling and computing functions of Data Centers. Further the type of Data Centre, whether it is corporate or co-located or managed has a significant influence on both the level of the SIS assimilation as well as the antecedent factors that influence assimilation.
Requirements Prioritization and Design Considerations for the Next Generation of Corporate Environmental Management Information Systems
Authors: Gräuler Matthias , Teuteberg Frank , Mahmoud Tariq , Gómez Jorge Marx
Published: March 2013

A multitude of heterogeneous data must be converted to environmental-conscious information and kept ready by Corporate Environmental Management Information Systems (CEMIS) to support environmental protection, sustainability, and energy efficiency within companies. Since these systems are currently not applying strategic information and decision support, contemporary systems do not cope with requirements from the sustainability discussion. Early identification of cause-and-effect-relationships is vitally important to be able to anticipate environmental impacts of decisions and, thus, to intervene in time. Otherwise the potential for acting precautious would remain unemployed. A resource-friendly design of business processes and their energy- and material-efficient control additionally demands for sustainability-oriented organizational structures as well as incentives for all stakeholders involved. The authors strive for developing a new generation of CEMIS that copes with strategic sustainability aspects. They present the results from a survey that prioritizes the requirements the authors have gained from former inquiries, workshops and expert interviews. As a direct result of the survey, first implications for architectural concepts are presented.
Modeling Indirect Influence on Twitter
Authors: Shuai Xin , Ding Ying , Busemeyer Jerome , Chen Shanshan , Sun Yuyin , Tang Jie
Published: March 2013

Social influence in social networks has been extensively researched. Most studies have focused on direct influence, while another interesting question can be raised as whether indirect influence exists between two users who’re not directly connected in the network and what affects such influence. In addition, the theory of complex contagion tells us that more spreaders will enhance the indirect influence between two users. The authors’ observation of intensity of indirect influence, propagated by n parallel spreaders and quantified by retweeting probability in two Twitter social networks, shows that complex contagion is validated globally but is violated locally. In other words, the retweeting probability increases non-monotonically with some local drops. A quantum cognition based probabilistic model is proposed to account for these local drops.
Immunization with Escherichia coli Outer Membrane Vesicles Protects Bacteria-Induced Lethality via Th1 and Th17 Cell Responses
Authors: Kim Oh Youn , Hong Bok Sil , Park Kyong-Su , Yoon Yae Jin , Choi Seng Jin , Lee Won Hee , Roh Tae-Young , Lötvall Jan , Kim Yoon-Keun , Gho Yong Song
Published: March 2013

Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), secreted from Gram-negative bacteria, are spherical nanometer-sized proteolipids enriched with outer membrane proteins. OMVs, also known as extracellular vesicles, have gained interests for use as nonliving complex vaccines and have been examined for immune-stimulating effects. However, the detailed mechanism on how OMVs elicit the vaccination effect has not been studied extensively. In this study, we investigated the immunological mechanism governing the protective immune response of OMV vaccines. Immunization with Escherichia coli–derived OMVs prevented bacteria-induced lethality and OMV-induced systemic inflammatory response syndrome. As verified by adoptive transfer and gene-knockout studies, the protective effect of OMV immunization was found to be primarily by the stimulation of T cell immunity rather than B cell immunity, especially by the OMV-Ag–specific production of IFN-γ and IL-17 from T cells. By testing the bacteria-killing ability of macrophages, we also demonstrated that IFN-γ and IL-17 production is the main factor promoting bacterial clearances. Our findings reveal that E. coli–derived OMV immunization effectively protects bacteria-induced lethality and OMV-induced systemic inflammatory response syndrome primarily via Th1 and Th17 cell responses. This study therefore provides a new perspective on the immunological detail regarding OMV vaccination.
TNFR-Associated Factor 6 Regulates TCR Signaling via Interaction with and Modification of LAT Adapter
Authors: Xie Ji-Ji , Liang Jia-Qi , Diao Liang-Hui , Altman Amnon , Li Yingqiu
Published: March 2013

TNFR-associated factor (TRAF)6 is an essential ubiquitin E3 ligase in immune responses, but its function in adaptive immunity is not well understood. In this study, we show that TRAF6 is recruited to the peripheral ring of the T cell immunological synapse in Jurkat T cells or human primary CD4+ T cells conjugated with staphylococcal enterotoxin E–pulsed B cells. This recruitment depends on TRAF6 interacting with linker for activation of T cells (LAT) via its TRAF domain. Although LAT was indispensable for TCR/CD28-induced TRAF6 ubiquitination and its ligase activity, RNA interference–induced TRAF6 knockdown in T cells decreased TCR/CD28-induced LAT ubiquitination, tyrosine phosphorylation, and association with tyrosine kinase ZAP70. Overexpression of TRAF6 or its catalytically inactive form C70A promoted and decreased, respectively, LAT tyrosine phosphorylation upon stimulation. Moreover, LAT was ubiquitinated at Lys88 by TRAF6 via K63-linked chain. In addition, TRAF6 was required for and synergized with LAT to promote the TCR/CD28-induced activation of NFAT. These results reveal a novel function and mechanism of TRAF6 action in the TCR–LAT signaling pathway distinct from its role in TCR-induced NF-κB activation, indicating that LAT also plays an adapter role in TCR/CD28-induced activation of TRAF6.
Enhanced Immunogenicity of a Tricomponent Mannan Tetanus Toxoid Conjugate Vaccine Targeted to Dendritic Cells via Dectin-1 by Incorporating β-Glucan
Authors: Lipinski Tomasz , Fitieh Amira , St. Pierre Joëlle , Ostergaard Hanne L. , Bundle David R. , Touret Nicolas
Published: March 2013

In a previous attempt to generate a protective vaccine against Candida albicans, a β-mannan tetanus toxoid conjugate showed poor immunogenicity in mice. To improve the specific activation toward the fungal pathogen, we aimed to target Dectin-1, a pattern-recognition receptor expressed on monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Laminarin, a β-glucan ligand of Dectin-1, was incorporated into the original β-mannan tetanus toxoid conjugate providing a tricomponent conjugate vaccine. A macrophage cell line expressing Dectin-1 was employed to show binding and activation of Dectin-1 signal transduction pathway by the β-glucan–containing vaccine. Ligand binding to Dectin-1 resulted in the following: 1) activation of Src family kinases and Syk revealed by their recruitment and phosphorylation in the vicinity of bound conjugate and 2) translocation of NF-κB to the nucleus. Treatment of immature bone marrow–derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) with tricomponent or control vaccine confirmed that the β-glucan–containing vaccine exerted its enhanced activity by virtue of dendritic cell targeting and uptake. Immature primary cells stimulated by the tricomponent vaccine, but not the β-mannan tetanus toxoid vaccine, showed activation of BMDCs. Moreover, treated BMDCs secreted increased levels of several cytokines, including TGF-β and IL-6, which are known activators of Th17 cells. Immunization of mice with the novel type of vaccine resulted in improved immune response manifested by high titers of Ab recognizing C. albicans β-mannan Ag. Vaccine containing laminarin also affected distribution of IgG subclasses, showing that vaccine targeting to Dectin-1 receptor can benefit from augmentation and immunomodulation of the immune response.
Antisense Oligonucleotide Treatment Enhances the Recovery of Acute Lung Injury through IL-10–Secreting M2-like Macrophage-Induced Expansion of CD4+ Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Guo Zhongliang , Wen Zhenke , Qin Andong , Zhou Ya , Liao Zhenyuan , Liu Zhongmin , Liang Yongjie , Ren Tao , Xu Lin
Published: March 2013

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown as an important regulator in the pathologies of acute lung injury (ALI). However, the potential effect of miRNA-based therapeutic studies in ALI remains poorly understood. We assessed the effect of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) against miR-155 on the development of ALI using a murine ALI model. We found that miR-155 ASO treatment could enhance the recovery of ALI as evidenced by accelerated body weight back, reduced level of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) protein and proinflammatory cytokines, and reduced number of BAL cells. Adoptive cell transfer assay in RAG1−/− mice showed that CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) mediated the enhanced recovery of ALI. Mechanistic evidence showed that enhanced expansion of Tregs in vivo, dominantly induced by IL-10–secreting M2-like macrophages, was critical for their elevated proportion in miR-155 ASO-treated ALI mice. Finally, we report that C/EBPβ, a target molecule of miR-155, was upregulated and associated with IL-10 secretion and M2-like phenotype of macrophages. These data provided a previously unknown mechanism for miRNA-based therapy against ALI, which could ultimately aid the understanding of recovery of ALI and the development of new therapeutic strategies against clinical inflammatory lung disease.
Structural myocardial involvement in adult patients with type 1 myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Dhand Upinder K. , Raja Faisal , Aggarwal Kul
Published: March 2013

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is the commonest muscular dystrophy in adults, affecting multiple organs in addition to skeletal muscles. Cardiac conduction system abnormalities are well recognized as an important component of DM1 phenotype; however, primary structural myocardial abnormalities, which may predispose these patients to congestive heart failure, are not as well characterized. We reviewed the retrospective analysis of the clinical and echocardiographic findings in adult patients with DM1. Among 27 patients (16 male; age 19-61 years) with DM1, the echocardiogram (ECHO) was abnormal in 10 (37%) including one of 6 patients (16%) with congenital myotonic dystrophy. Reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≤50%) was noted in 5, diastolic dysfunction in 4, left atrial dilatation in 3, left ventricular hypertrophy in 2, apical hypokinesia in 1 and mitral valve prolapse in 3 patients. One patient had paradoxical septal movement in the setting of left bundle branch block. Echocardiographic abnormalities significantly correlated with older age; however, patients with systolic dysfunction on echocardiogram ranged in age from 27 to 52 years including 2 patients aged 27 and 34 years. We can conclude that echocardiographic abnormalities are frequent in adult patients with DM1. The incidence is similar in the classical and congenital type of DM1. Overall, echocardiographic abnormalities in DM1 correlate with increasing age; however, reduced LVEF is observed even at young age. Cardiac assessment and monitoring in adult patients with DM1 should include evaluation for primary myocardial involvement.
A global historical ozone data set and signatures of El Niño and the 11-yr solar cycle
Authors: Brönnimann S. , Bhend J. , Franke J. , Flückiger S. , Fischer A. M. , Bleisch R. , Bodeker G. , Hassler B. , Rozanov E. , Schraner M.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. We present a vertically resolved (with pressure as the vertical coordinate) zonal mean monthly mean global ozone data set spanning the period 1900 to 2008, called HISTOZ.1.0. It is based on a new approach that combines information from an ensemble of chemistry climate model (CCM) simulations with historical total ozone information. The CCM simulations incorporate important external drivers of stratospheric chemistry and dynamics (in particular solar and volcanic effects, greenhouse gases and ozone depleting substances, sea-surface temperatures, and the Quasi-Biennial Oscillation). The historical total ozone observations include ground-based measurements from the 1920s onward and satellite observations from 1970 to 1976. An off-line data assimilation approach (Ensemble Square Root Filter) is used to combine model simulations, observations, and information on the observation error. The period starting in 1979 was used for validation with existing ozone data sets and therefore only ground-based measurements were assimilated. Results demonstrate considerable skill from the CCM simulations alone. While the observations provide little additional skill at the full spatio-temporal resolution, they do increase the skill at lower spatio-temporal resolutions and specifically for total ozone. Analyses of HISTOZ.1.0 with respect to the effects of El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and of the 11 yr solar cycle on stratospheric ozone from 1934 to 1979 qualitatively confirm previous studies that focussed on the post-1979 period. However, a more pronounced effect of ENSO and slightly weaker effect of the 11 yr solar cycle are found in the earlier period. Several possible future improvements of HISTOZ.1.0 are discussed.
Exploring model sensitivity issues across different scales in landslide susceptibility
Authors: Catani F. , Lagomarsino D. , Segoni S. , Tofani V.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Despite the large number of recent advances and developments in landslide susceptibility mapping there is still a lack of studies focusing on specific aspects of LSM model sensitivity. For example, the influence of factors of paramount importance such as the survey scale of the landslide conditioning variables (LCVs), the resolution of the mapping unit (MUR) and the optimal number and ranking of LCVs have never been investigated analytically, especially on large datasets. In this paper we attempt this experimentation concentrating on the impact of model tuning choice on the final result, rather than on the comparison of methodologies. To this end, we adopt a simple implementation of the random forest (RF) classification family to produce an ensemble of landslide susceptibility maps for a set of different model settings, input data types and scales. Random forest is a combination of tree (usually binary) bayesian predictors that permits to relate a set of contributing factors with the actual landslides occurrence. Being it a nonparametric model, it is possible to incorporate a range of numeric or categorical data layers and there is no need to select unimodal training data. Many classical and widely acknowledged landslide predisposing factors have been taken into account as mainly related to: the lithology, the land use, the land surface geometry (derived from of DTM), the structural and anthropogenic constrains. In addition, for each factor we also included in the parameter set the standard deviation (for numerical variables) or the variety (for categorical ones). The use of random forest enables to estimate the relative importance of the single input parameters and to select the optimal configuration of the regression model. The model was initially applied using the complete set of input parameters then, with progressively smaller subsamples of the parameter space. Considering the best set of parameters we also studies the impact of scale and accuracy of input variables and the of RF model random component on the susceptibility results. We apply the model statistics to a test area in central Italy, the basin of the Arno river (ca. 9000 km2), we present the obtained results and discuss them. Results confirm that the choice of parameter set, mapping unit resolution and training sampling method highly influences the overall accuracy of classification and prediction results. This, in turn, implies that a careful sensitivity analysis making use of traditional and new tools should always be performed before producing final susceptibility maps at all levels and scales.
The Mediterranean Sea system: a review and an introduction to the special issue
Authors: Tanhua T. , Hainbucher D. , Schröder K. , Cardin V. , Álvarez M. , Civitarese G.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. The Mediterranean is a semi-enclosed sea characterized by high salinities, temperatures and densities. The net evaporation exceeds the precipitation, driving an anti-estuarine circulation through the Strait of Gibraltar, contributing to very low nutrient concentrations. The Mediterranean Sea has an active overturning circulation, one shallow cell that communicates directly with the Atlantic Ocean, and two deep overturning cells, one in each of the two main basins. It is surrounded by populated areas and is thus sensitive to anthropogenic forcing. Several dramatic changes in the oceanographic and biogeochemical conditions have been observed during the past several decades, emphasising the need to better monitor and understand the changing conditions and their drivers. During 2011 three oceanographic cruises were conducted in a coordinated fashion in order to produce base-line data of important physical and biogeochemical parameters that can be compared to historic data and be used as reference for future observational campaigns. In this article we provide information on the Mediterranean Sea oceanographic situation, and present a short review that will serve as background information for the special issue in Ocean Science on "Physical, chemical and biological oceanography of the Mediterranean Sea". An important contribution of this article is the set of figures showing the large-scale distributions of physical and chemical properties along the full length of the Mediterranean Sea.
Gravity effect of glacial ablation in the Eastern Alps – observation and modeling
Authors: Arneitz P. , Meurers B. , Ruess D. , Ullrich C. , Abermann J. , Kuhn M.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Absolute gravity measurements have been regularly performed in the Austrian Eastern Alps since 1985. A gravity increase of 300 nm s−2 has been observed so far. The gravity trend is explained by ablation effects within surrounding glaciers. Ice thickness changes derived from 3 successive glacier inventories of 1969, 1997 and 2006 are used for quantitative 3-D modeling based on rectangular prisms with basis areas of ≤ 8 m × 8 m. Local topographic changes due to man-made mass displacements close to the measuring site are modeled by a polyhedron approach. Two-thirds (2/3) of the observed gravity increase can be explained by the ablation model response and man-made effects. A positive trend of about 100 nm s−2 remains. The origin of the residual trend remains open. Correcting for geodynamical processes like Alpine uplift or postglacial deformation is expected to cause a slight increase of this trend. The observed gravity signal shows seasonal gravity variations as well, which are probably due to snow cover effects but cannot be quantified due to the lack of appropriate snow cover information.
Recent mass balance of Purogangri ice cap, central Tibetan Plateau, by means of differential X-band SAR interferometry
Authors: Neckel N. , Braun A. , Kropáček J. , Hochschild V.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Due to their remoteness, altitude and harsh climatic conditions, little is known about the glaciological parameters of ice caps on the Tibetan Plateau (TP). This study presents an interferometrical approach aiming at surface elevation changes of Purogangri ice cap, located on the central TP. Purogangri ice cap covers an area of 397 ± 9.7 km2 and is the largest ice cap on the TP. Its behavior is determined by dry and cold continental climate suggesting a polar-type glacier regime. We employed data from the actual TerraSAR-X mission and its add-on for Digital Elevation Measurements (TanDEM-X) and compare it with elevation data from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). These datasets are ideal for this approach as both datasets feature the same wavelength of 3.1 cm and are available at a fine grid spacing. Similar snow conditions can be assumed since the data were acquired in early February 2000 and late January 2012. The trend in glacier extend was extracted using a time series of Landsat data. Our results show a balanced mass budget for the studied time period which is in agreement with previous studies. Additionally, we detected an exceptional fast advance of one glacier tongue in the eastern part of the ice cap between 1999 and 2011.
Cyclone impact on sea ice in the central Arctic Ocean: a statistical study
Authors: Kriegsmann A. , Brümmer B.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. This study investigates the impact of cyclones on the Arctic Ocean sea ice for the first time in a statistical manner. We apply the coupled ice–ocean model NAOSIM which is forced by the ECMWF analyses for the period 2006–2008. Cyclone position and radius detected in the ECMWF data are used to extract fields of wind, ice drift, and concentration from the ice–ocean model. Composite fields around the cyclone centre are calculated for different cyclone intensities, the four seasons, and different regions of the Arctic Ocean. In total about 3500 cyclone events are analyzed. In general, cyclones reduce the ice concentration on the order of a few percent increasing towards the cyclone centre. This is confirmed by independent AMSR-E satellite data. The reduction increases with cyclone intensity and is most pronounced in summer and on the Siberian side of the Arctic Ocean. For the Arctic ice cover the impact of cyclones has climatologic consequences. In winter, the cyclone-induced openings refreeze so that the ice mass is increased. In summer, the openings remain open and the ice melt is accelerated via the positive albedo feedback. Strong summer storms on the Siberian side of the Arctic Ocean may have been important reasons for the recent ice extent minima in 2007 and 2012.
Relationships between Innovation Capabilities, Business Performance, Marketing Performance and Financial Performance: A Literature Review
Authors: Alam Syed Shah , Arumugam Vijayesvaran , Mohd Nor Noor Gani , Kaliappan Pushpa , Fang Lee Sze
Published: March 2013

Innovation is one of the basic component use by the corporate as a stretegy to improve productive manufacturing processes, to be able to compete in the market and to establish good reputation to gain positive status in customers’s perception. This paper has been designed to review the existing literature available on firm innovation capabilities and its influence on performance (i.e. business, marketing and financial performance). After reviewing the existing literature on firm innovation capabilities, the researchers have found that firm innovation capabilities have greater influence on business performance, marketing performance and ultimately influence on financial performance. Theoretical framework has been develop on the basis of the reviewed literiture, showing the relationship between firm innovation capabilities and performance.
Proteolytic Activity in Actomyosinfrom Mantle and Fin of Squid (Illexargentinus) Stored at 2-4°C. Influence on the Physicochemical and Functional Properties of the Protein
Authors: Mignino Lorena. A. , Crupkin Marcos , Paredi María E.
Published: March 2013

Actomyosin (AM) of mantle and fin from squid was stored at 2-4°C and the possible presence of proteolytic activity was investigated. Similar SDS-PAGE 10% patterns were obtained with both AM at zero time of storage. In absence of protease inhibitors, a decrease in the intensity of the band of the myosin heavy chain (MHC) and an increase in those of 155 kDa and 55 kDa bands of stored AM was observed. In presence of either PMSF (phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride) or EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) both AM showed a minor degradation of the MHC, being the EDTA more effective. Proteolytic changes were accompanied by a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the proteinsurface hydrophobicity, (So: 1-anilino-8-naphtalene sulfonic acid (ANS)), the emulsion activity index (EAI) and the emulsion stability (ES) at 24 h of storage. At the same time, the reduced viscosity (VER) decreased significantly (p < 0.05). No significative changes (p > 0.05) in VER, IAE and ES of both AM occur in presence of protease inhibitors.A proteolytic activity closely associate with actomyosin from squid mantle and fin, was detected. Both serine and metalloproteinase activities were responsible for the autolysis of stored actomyosin. The best emulsifiying properties were obtained with AM without inhibitors. Because of this fins proteins could be and inexpensive source of functional ingredients with potential application as emulsifier agents in food product.
Bioavailability of Essential Minerals from Staples Commonly Consumed in the Tropics
Authors: Dilworth Lowell L. , Brown Kesi J. , Asemota Helen N.
Published: March 2013

This study assessed essential minerals in sweet cassava (Manihot esculenta), Lucea yam (Dioscorea rotundata), plantain (Musa sp.) and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) by atomic absorption spectrophotometry while mineral bioavailabilities were assessed by in vitro enzymatic digestion.

Undigested cassava samples displayed highest calcium concentrations (3150 ± 320 mg/Kg) while the highest iron concentrations were recorded in pumpkin samples (81.5 ± 4.7 mg/Kg). Magnesium concentrations were highest in ripe plantain samples (963 ± 15.18 mg/Kg) while the highest zinc concentrations were recorded in cassava (15.23 ± 4.07 mg/Kg). Cooked samples displayed higher percentages of available minerals than uncooked ones with unripe plantain displaying highest percentage soluble calcium (12.945), iron (37.19%) and magnesium (23.37%) while the highest percentage soluble zinc was observed in sweet cassava (9.87%).
 The samples assessed are important contributors of essential dietary minerals especially in the cooked states. These staples have untapped potential for increased economic relevance especially with increasing costs of food production. Studies aimed at increasing mineral bioavailability in some samples are needed.
The Origins of Business Ethics in American Universities, 1902–1936
Authors: Abend Gabriel
Published: March 2013

The history of the field of business ethics in the U.S. remains understudied and misunderstood. In this article I begin to remedy this oversight about the past, and I suggest how it can be beneficial in the present. Using both published and unpublished primary sources, I argue that the business ethics field emerged in the early twentieth century, against the backdrop of the establishment of business schools in major universities. I bring to light four important developments: business ethics lectures at the University of California and Yale University, Leon Marshall’s curriculum at the College of Commerce of the University of Chicago, and the William A. Vawter Foundation on Business Ethics at Northwestern University. Then, I consider the payoffs of my historical account for business ethics theory, pedagogy, and practice. Specifically, I present four implications of my account under these headings: business ethics as a public problem; the place of ethics in business schools; historicizing business ethics; and historical self-knowledge.
The Influence of Ethical Leadership and Regulatory Focus on Employee Outcomes
Authors: Neubert Mitchell J. , Wu Cindy , Roberts James A.
Published: March 2013

Regulatory focus theory is proposed as offering an explanation for the influence of ethical leadership on organizational citizenship behaviors and employee commitments. The prevention focus mindset of an employee is argued to be the mechanism by which an ethical leader influences extra-role compliance behavior as well as normative commitment, whereas the promotion focus mindset of an employee is argued to be the mechanism by which an ethical leader influences extra-role voice behavior as well as affective commitment. Moreover, leader-member exchange is proposed as a moderator of the relationship of ethical leadership to regulatory focus mindsets and employee behavior and commitments. Using the data collected in two waves from 250 working adults, we tested the proposed relationships with moderated mediation bootstrap procedures. The findings generally support the hypothesized relationships and point toward important implications for ethical leadership in work settings.
Gestão estratégica e as competências gerenciais no departamento de marketing: estudo de uma indústria de bebidas
Authors: Baisch Lindiane Da Veiga , Estrada Rolando Juan Soliz , Scherer Flávia Luciane , Hahn Ivanete Schneider , Thurner Bruno Da Veiga
Published: March 2013

This work presents the study in a beverage industry, in the city of Santa Maria in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, that uses strategic planning in its activities. The research aimed to identify the managing competences of the marketing manager at the studied company. In order to achieve this goal, we studied the Estrada (2007) strategic management model, where we analyzed the present and expected roles and the competences of the marketing manager. In order to collect data, we applied a semi structured interview to the marketing manager, his/her boss and his/her subordinates. We analyze the managing competences that this professional has and should have, for an efficient performs at its functions and the optimization of the company strategic management.
Determinantes de la capacidad de innovación en PYMES regionales
Authors: Fernández-Jardón Carlos Maria
Published: March 2013

The innovativeness is a core competence to innovate and therefore enhancing competitiveness, especially in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This capability is constrained by internal and external factors. This article discusses how the company combines these factors to improve innovativeness. First, the company generates a core competence called human resource management and technology from internal intellectual capital. Furthermore, the company organizes another core competence called resource management and territorial relations from tangible resources associated with intellectual capital territory and fruit of the relationship with the environment. Using partial least squares techniques applied to a sample of small and medium enterprises in a region in northwest Spain is shown that both factors influence innovativeness. This study helps to define what the factors that enhance innovativeness are and how those factors associated company, indicating the process of building core competencies to improve their innovativeness. Consequently, for thought suggests to develop policies to support business innovation.
As influências da Institucionalização Organizacional na operacionalização da Ecologia Industrial: possíveis facilidades e obstáculos
Authors: Trevisan Marcelo , Nascimento Luis Felipe , Madruga Lúcia Rejane da Rosa Gama , Neutzling Daiane Mülling , Figueiró Paola Schmitt , Bossle Marilia Bonzanini
Published: March 2013

Industrial Ecology (IE) is pointed as an alternative to the sustainable development because it accosts the permeability between human activities and biosphere. However, it presents poor emerging perspectives of insights to the social sciences. In turn, the New Institutionalism considers the influence of the social and cultural factors in the functioning of the organizations. It proposes that the environment exerts influences in relation to the organization and the human being is semi conscious before the institutional forces according as their decisions are conditioned by the socio and environmental structures. Thus, there is an institution when an organization is legitimized by the society in accordance to their cultural rules. This theoretical essay aims to analyze the aspects found in the institutionalization of the organizations that can facilitate or hinder the operational process of the IE. As elements presented in the institutionalization of the organization that can facilitate process of IE included: cultural norms socially accepted and parameters for how to act; an institution seen as an effective and necessary and institutions stabilize expectations. Among the factors of the difficulties are: action by habit, distance from the essence of the cause of change; difficulty in adopting innovations and attitude of self-defense.
Universidade empreendedora e o desenvolvimento regional sustentável: proposta de um modelo
Authors: Casado Frank Leonardo , Siluk Julio Cesar Mairese , Zampieri Nilza Luiza Venturini
Published: March 2013

Universities, are creators of knowledge, are potential actors of sustainable development practices and social responsibility. Even if it is evident the importance of effective actions that are being carried out within the framework of the universities, it is known that society expects much more than they've been doing. Highlights therefore following paradox: on the one hand, the universities, primarily the federal institutions of higher education (IFES), develop many social actions (extension), generate new technologies (search) and form quality professionals (teaching). On the other hand, it is possible to say that a larger contribution is required to meet the demands of the population where are inserted, if making urgent greater participation in the process of sustainable development of their regions of comprehensiveness. The quest-to achieve these goals, it was the preparation of foundations for implementation of a program of innovative entrepreneurship. Which shows necessary for allowing the unification of isolated initiatives today, the search for financing of strategic projects, the definition and implementation of policy on entrepreneurship and innovation of institution and the consolidation of administrative structure capable of supporting the demands of teaching, research and extension.
Indigenous Production of Bovine/Bubaline Reproductive Hormones
Authors: Muralidhar Kambadur
Published: March 2013

The research work of our laboratory on buffalo pituitary hormones is summarized here in the context of MOET programme of our country. All the anterior pituitary protein hormones of this species (i.e. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Growth Hormone (GH) and others) have been purified from freshly frozen pituitaries. These hormones have been extensively characterized with regard to physico chemical, immunochemical and biological features. We have also produced buffalo Prolactin (PRL), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), FSH and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) by recombinant DNA techniques.
Outbreak of Fatal Subacute Bubaline Fasciolosis in Wayanad, Kerala, India
Authors: Jyothimol G. , Jayesh V. , Satheeshkumar KK , Ajithkumar KG , Priya MN , Deepa CK , Syamala K , Ravindran Reghu
Published: March 2013

Present communication deals with a fatal outbreak of subacute fasciolosis in male buffalo calves in Wayanad district. During first week of February 2012, six out of 25 male buffalo calves aged 6-9 months, owned by a farmer residing near the dam site of Karappuzha, Wayanad district died suddenly during a period of 3-4 days. The animals were brought to Kerala 4 weeks back from Andhrapradesh for fattening. On post-mortem examination, the peritoneal cavity was filled with ascitic fluid. Liver was enlarged and large numbers of migrating flukes were observed. Snails collected from nearby water bodies released only echinostome cercariae. It was concluded that the infection occurred not from Kerala and might have happened from Andhrapradesh. Treatment with Triclabendazole at the dose rate of 24 mg/Kg body weight saved the rest of the animals.
An Analysis of pXRF Obsidian Source Attributions from Tikal, Guatemala
Authors: Moholy-Nagy Hattula , Meierhoff James , Golitko Mark , Kestle Caleb
Published: March 2013

Portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (pXRF) was used to obtain source determinations for 2,235 obsidian artifacts. These were supplemented by 48 previously published results made by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) to bring the total sample to 2,283. Thirteen geological sources have been identified by instrument to date. Three sources in Highland Guatemala accounted for nearly 98 percent of all attributions, with approximately 2 percent from 10 green and gray obsidian sources in central Mexico. Geological sources can be brought into cultural context by examining their distributions among types of artifacts, recovery contexts, structure group types, distance from the Classic period epicenter of the city, and chronological relationships. Several procurement systems operated to import obsidian cores and other artifacts. Consumers obtained obsidian artifacts primarily through marketplace exchange, but other kinds of distribution are also indicated. The reliability, portability, rapidity, ease of use, non-destructive nature, and relatively low cost of pXRF show promise for the acquisition of the source attributions needed to construct the past cultural contexts of obsidian procurement and use. This method produces results comparable to those obtained by other kinds of instrumental analysis, and with a considerably higher degree of reliability than visual determinations.
Elements For a Synergetic Approach to Peirce’s Semiotics and Adamczewski’s Linguistics
Authors: Cosculluela Cécile M.
Published: March 2013

How legitimate is the use of numbers by linguistic operators zero, phase 1 and phase 2? It seems that these references to the philosophy of mathematics pose a problem that is inherently tied to the core of the science of linguistics. The Peircean categories of firstness, secondness and thirdness not only offer terminogical solutions, but also corollary epistemological openings that allow for the substitution of linguistic’s empiricism by a semiotic basis.
Integrated Game Based Guidance with Nonlinear Autopilot Design for Maneuvering Target Interception
Authors: Hsueh Ming‐Hsiung , Wang Ting-Kuo , Fu Li‐Chen
Published: March 2013

The integrated game theory based guidance law with nonlinear autopilot (GGNA) system is presented in this paper. The guidance law is designed based on linear differential game theory while considering the motion of the target in 3‐D space such that the distance between the missile and the target is minimized faster than before. The autopilot system based on quaternion representation is developed using sliding mode control method to generate the attitude command. The stability of the integrated guidance and nonlinear autopilot system is analyzed with Lyapunov stability theory. In addition, this research assumes wingless missiles in our context in order to reduce the nonlinear effect from the aerodynamics. Furthermore, in order to extend the operation range of missiles from endo‐atmosphere to exo‐atmosphere, the missiles are equipped with Thrust Vector Control (TVC) mechanisms and Divert Control System (DCS). Finally, extensive simulations incorporating aerodynamic models are demonstrated to verify the validity of the proposed integrated guidance/autopilot systems. Moreover, the simulation results reveal that the mission of intercepting a maneuvering target is successfully accomplished.
Spectrofluorimetric determination of tobramycin in human serum and pharmaceutical preparations by derivatization with fluorescamine
Authors: Tekkeli Serife Evrim Kepekci , Önal Armağan , Sağırlı A.Olcay
Published: March 2013

A simple, sensitive and selective spectrofluorimetric method has been developed for the determination of tobramycin (TOB) in human serum and pharmaceutical preparations. The method is based on the reaction between the primary amino group of TOB and fluorescamine in borate buffer, pH 8.5, to give a highly fluorescent derivative which is measured at 469 nm after excitation at 388 nm. The fluorescence intensity was directly proportional to the concentration over the range 300–1500 ng/mL, with a limit of detection of 65  ng/mL and limit of quantitation of 215  ng/mL. All variables were investigated to optimize the reaction conditions. The method was validated according to International Conference on Harmonization guidelines in terms of specificity, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, accuracy, precision and robustness. Good recoveries were obtained ranging from 97.4 to 100.64%, indicating that no interference was observed from concomitants usually present in pharmaceutical dosage forms. The method was successfully, applied for the analysis of the drug substance in its pharmaceutical preparations and spiked serum samples. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative determination of duloxetine and its metabolite in rat plasma by HPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Chae Jung‐woo , Baek Hyun‐moon , Kim Sang Kyum , Kang Ho‐il , Kwon Kwang‐il
Published: March 2013

The major metabolite of duloxetine is a glucuronide conjugate of 4‐hydroxy duloxetine (4‐HD). However, interestingly, there have been no reports determining concentrations of 4‐HD and no fully validated method has been established for measuring duloxetine and 4‐HD in rat plasma. We developed a method for the simultaneous quantification of duloxetine and its metabolite in rat plasma using high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Duloxetine and 4‐HD were analyzed on a reverse‐phase C18 analytical column after protein precipitation of the plasma sample with methanol, using carbamazepine as an internal standard. The isocratic mobile phase of 5 mm ammonium acetate–methanol (4:6, v/v) was eluted at 0.4 mL/min. Quantification was performed on a triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometer using electrospray ionization, and the ion transition monitored in selective reaction monitoring mode. The coefficient of variation for assay precision was <18.0%, and the accuracy was 84.0–118.0%. This method was successfully used to measure the concentrations of duloxetine and its metabolite in plasma following the oral administration of a single 40 mg/kg dose in rats. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.