bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Youth Migration in Italy: A New Working Class?
Authors: Ricucci Roberta
Published: May 2012

The study of integration processes focused specifically on the educational field has reached a crucial stage with the emergence of the second generation of immigrants. Even in a recent migration country like Italy, awareness has increased of the strategic importance of schools facing immigration, and the shaping of Italy as a multiethnic society. This article presents some aspects of extensive qualitative research carried out in Turin on the relationship between the education paths and integration processes of immigrant pupils in Italy. The various phases of welcoming, integration, and then either school success or failure, are crucial in order to understand how students with migratory backgrounds (or themselves migrants) are defining their careers, both at school and in the labour market. In other words, does school integration promote highly-qualified education paths?
The effect of anatase crystal morphology on the photocatalytic conversion of NO by TiO2-based nanomaterials
Authors: Abreu Marco , Morgado Edisson , Jardim Paula , Marinkovic Bojan
Published: May 2012

Hydrogen titanate nanotubes (H-TTNT) were synthesized by the alkali hydrothermal method followed by proton exchange and then submitted either to thermal treatment or to acid hydrothermal reaction to generate TiO2-anatase nanocrystals of different morphologies. The samples were characterized by XRPD, TGA, sulfur analysis, N2 physisorption, UV-Vis spectroscopy and TEM. Their photocatalytic activities were determined by measuring the NO conversion in inert gas stream passed through the powder catalyst bed under UV radiation. Incomplete transformation into anatase resulted in nanomaterials with low activity due to coexistence with H-TTNT or TiO2-B precursors. Anatase specimens derived from H-TTNT aged in strong sulfuric acid media contained equidimensional nanoparticles, but retention of sulfate negatively affected their photocatalytic activity. Combining milder acidic pH with higher aging temperature, allowed synthesis of a sulfate free anatase with the same optical properties and specific surface area as the counterpart produced by calcination of H-TTNT at 550°C; however, the former exhibited truncated bi-pyramid nanocrystals and the other adopted the form of nanorods. This latter showed the highest photocatalytic activity for NO abatement, outperforming the benchmark photocatatyst TiO2-P25; this improved activity was tentatively ascribed to the maximization of high energy {001} facets in anatase nanorods formed during calcination of H-TTNT.
Trans influence of triphenylphosphines and pseudohalogens on Ni-S bonds: Synthesis, spectral and single crystal X-ray structural studies on NiS2PN and NiS2PC chromophores
Authors: Ramalingam Kuppukkannu , Thiruneelakandan Raghavan , Bocelli Gabriele , Righi Lara
Published: May 2012

Trans influence of triphenylphosphines and pseudohalogens on Ni-S bonds of NiS2PN and NiS2PC chromophores has been investigated by synthesizing and characterizing them. The complexes show the characteristic thioureide IR band at ∼ 1530 cm−1. Electronic spectrum of the cyanide analogue shows a strong blue shift relative to others. X-ray structures of [Ni(pipdtc)(4-MP)(NCS)] (1), [Ni(pipdtc)(PPh3)(NCS)] (2) and [Ni(pipdtc)(PPh3)(CN)] (3) (pipdtc = piperidinecarbodithioate anion, 4-MP = tri(4-methylphenyl)phopshine) are reported. Ni-S bond distance trans to 4-MP(1) is longer than the distances in (2) and (3) and Ni-S bond distances trans to Ni-NCS/CN decrease as follows: (3) > (2) > (1). Particularly, 4-MP shows a highly significant trans influence than triphenylphosphine on Ni-S bond. Similarly, CN− exerts a marginally significant trans influence compared to NCS-. Thioureide C-N distances are relatively very short due to the drift of electron density towards the metal. The Ni-N-C angle (163.5(2)°) observed in (2) indicates deviation from linearity to a larger extent compared to that in (1) (176.3(3)°) due to the steric effect of the 4-methyl group. The reduction potentials (CV) for the mixed ligand complexes are much less compared to that of the parent NiS4 chromophore due to the π-acidic phosphines.
Electrode mechanism and voltammetric determination of selected guanidino compounds
Authors: Skrzypek Sławomira
Published: May 2012

The present review describes the recent results on the electrochemical activity of bio-guanidino compounds, such as famotidine, metformin, acyclovir, ganciclovir, zanamivir, moroxydine as well as guanidino compounds, such as S-[(2-guanidino-thiazol-4-yl)methyl]isothiourea hydrochloride, 2-guanidino-1,3-thiazole, 2-guanidinobenzimidazole. The focus is on analyzing the electrode mechanism of the guanidino compounds at the hanging mercury drop electrode and at the silver amalgam film electrode, as well as on the character of the square wave (SW) voltammetric signals. It has been stated, that the compounds can act as electrocatalysts — they are protonated and adsorbed at the surface of the electrode, after which the protonated forms of the compounds are irreversibly reduced, yielding their initial form and hydrogen. The experimental adsorption data obtained by measuring the differential capacity of the double layer, the zero charge potential, and the surface tension at the zero charge potential have established the adsorption processes underlying their electrochemical activity. The analytical application of the obtained voltammetric signals in the determination of these compounds in biological samples is also presented. This review concentrates on our own results in the context of general developments in the field.
Temperature effects on the adsorption of polyvinyl alcohol on silica
Authors: Wiśniewska Małgorzata
Published: May 2012

The influence of temperature on the adsorption of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) on a silica surface was studied from 15–35°C. The structure of the polymer adsorption layer was determined from spectrophotometric, viscosity and thermogravimetric measurements. The amount of PVA adsorbed, macromolecules’ conformation in solution, thickness of the polymer adsorption layer, and changes in the heating curve of SiO2 with adsorbed polymer were determined. Temperature influences the PVA chain conformation in solution and the structure of the polymer adsorption layer. A temperature rise causes relaxation of polymer coils which results in an increase in the linear dimensions of PVA chains in the solution, the creation of a thicker adsorption layer, and an increase in polymer adsorbed. Polymer adsorption on the silica surface also causes changes in the heating curve of these systems. The mass losses due to heating are smallest for the systems obtained at 15°C because the least polymer is adsorbed at this temperature.
Extraction-spectrophotometric investigations on two ternary ion-association complexes of gallium(III)
Authors: Stojnova Kirila , Gavazov Kiril , Toncheva Galya , Lekova Vanya , Dimitrov Atanas
Published: May 2012

Complex formation and liquid-liquid extraction were studied in systems containing Ga(III), azoderivative of resorcinol {4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol (PAR) or 4-(2-thiazolylazo)resorcinol (TAR)}, 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC), water and chloroform. The optimum conditions w.r.t. pH, extraction time, concentration of ADR and concentration of TTC for the extraction of Ga(III) as an ion-associate complex were found.. The composition of the extracted complexes, (TT+)[Ga(PAR)2] (I), (TT+)[Ga(TAR)2] (II) or (TT+)2[Ga(OH)(TAR)2] (III), and the constants of association (β) between 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium cation (TT+) with corresponding anionic chelates were established by several methods. The constants of distribution (KD) and extraction (Kex) of the principal species I and III were determined as well. The apparent molar absorptivities of the chloroform extract at the optimum extraction-spectrophotometric conditions were ɛ′510=9.5×104 L mol−1 cm−1 (I) and ɛ′530=4.6×104 L mol−1 cm−1 (III). The validity of Beer’s law was checked and analytical characteristics that were calculated are reported herein.
Synthesis and biological activity of novel heavy metal complexes of 5-amino-1, 10-phenanthroline and 1,10-phenanthroline
Authors: Kaloyanov Nikolay , Neykov Mihail , Wesselinova Diana , Dimitrov Georgi
Published: May 2012

Novel heavy metal complexes: Sr(5-NH2-phen)4(NO3)(OH)(H2O)2 (1) (synthesized via a static self-assembly process) and Sn(phen)(NO3)(OH)(H2O) (2), Sn(5-NH2-phen)(OH)(Cl)(H2O) (3), Pb(5-NH2-phen)(NO3)2(H2O) (4) (obtained via metal competitive reactions under mild conditions) were reported. The coordination compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR-spectroscopy and FAB-mass spectrometry. Their cytotoxicity was measured by MTS-test towards human tumour (MDA-MB-231, HT-29, HeLa, HepG2) and non-tumour diploid (Lep-3) cell lines. The most pronounced cytotoxic effect on all cancer lines showed 1 and 4 at their high concentrations as well as 1 at its lower ones (≤ 4×10−2 mg). Therefore, strontium complex of 5-amino-o-phenanthroline (1) exhibited the widest antitumour spectrum activity, having no toxicity to non-tumour cells at quantities ≤ 4×10−2 mg. The computed EC50 values of 1–4 against MDA-MB-231, HT-29, HeLa, HepG2 varied from 1.40×10−3 to 6.31×10−6 M. Towards Lep-3 substances 2–4 showed IC50 7.52×10−4 − 0.44 M. Substance 1 possess EC50=1.26×10−7 M to the non-tumour cells.
Simulating pollutant transport over complex terrain: the hydrological component
Authors: Mita Constantina , Catsaros Nicolaos
Published: May 2012

The accurate determination of surface water flow pathways is of primary importance when assessing the impact of pollutant transport and watershed physical characteristics on overland and channel water quality. The mathematical description of hydrological processes over natural watersheds, requires a detailed representation of the topography, on which the accurate determination of overland and channel flow trajectories often poses difficulties. The hydrological component of the DELTA code aims to provide valuable insight into this direction by using the semi-irregular triangulated (semi-TIN) topography model DELTA/HYDRO for establishing surface flow paths that can represent reliably the natural characteristics of a watershed, addressing several major physical hydrodynamic processes. The validity of the generated paths is tested via the integration of a conventional distributed hydrological model by routing excess rainfall over ground surface and through a channel network to the watershed outlet, for a series of storm episodes on a small, but relatively complex watershed. The encouraging results obtained demonstrate the promising application potential of the model, which can be additionally complemented with a pollutant transport component to address the interactions of soluble chemicals between soil surface and overland/channel flow, in the context of a fully integrated model.
Diironcarbonyl-coumarin complex: preparation, intramolecular electron transfer, and electro-generation of hydrogen
Authors: Mebi Charles , Trujillo Joshua , Bhuiyan Anwar
Published: May 2012

A new organometallic complex coupling photoactive coumarin to a diironhexacarbonyl unit has been successfully prepared and its composition and electronic structure confirmed by elemental and spectroscopic analyses. Emission spectral analysis of the complex reveals photoinduced intramolecular electron transfer from coumarin to the iron-carbonyl moiety. The compound is electrochemically reduced at −1.24 V vs. Fc/Fc+. This reduction is irreversible, attesting to the instability of the complex. Electrochemical evolution of hydrogen in the presence of the complex has been studied and results are discussed.
TiO2-assisted photodegradation of pharmaceuticals — a review
Authors: Tong Alfred , Braund Rhiannon , Warren David , Peake Barrie
Published: May 2012

Pharmaceutical compounds have been detected in the environment and potentially arise from the discharge of excreted and improperly disposed medication from sewage treatment facilities. In order to minimize environmental exposure of pharmaceutical residues, a potential technique to remove pharmaceuticals from water is the use of an advanced oxidation process (AOP) involving titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalysis. To evaluate the extent UV/TiO2 processes have been studied for pharmaceutical degradation, a literature search using the keywords ‘titanium dioxide’, ‘photocatalysis’, ‘advanced oxidation processes’, ‘pharmaceuticals’ and ‘degradation’ were used in the ISI Web of Knowledge TM, Scopus TM and ScienceDirect TM databases up to and including articles published on 23 November 2011. The degradation rates of pharmaceuticals under UV/TiO2 treatment were dependent on type and amount of TiO2 loading, pharmaceutical concentration, the presence of electron acceptors and pH. Complete mineralization under particular experimental conditions were reported for some pharmaceuticals; however, some experiments reported evolution of toxic intermediates during the photocatalytic process. It is concluded that the UV/TiO2 system is potentially a feasible wastewater treatment process, but careful consideration of the treatment time, the loading and the type of TiO2 (doped vs. undoped) used for a particular pharmaceutical is necessary for a successful application (198 words).
Altered membrane amino acids composition in human colorectal cancer tissue
Authors: Szachowicz-Petelska Barbara , Sulkowski Stanisław , Figaszewski Zbigniew
Published: May 2012

Cancer transformation is characterized by changes in cell metabolism, which can alter the structure and function of cell membrane components, including integral membrane proteins. Qualitative and quantitative estimations of integral membrane protein are necessary for studies aimed at understanding their modifications under pathological conditions. Herein, we used a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-based approach that involved selective hydrolysis of isolated tissue cell membrane proteins to peptides, resolution by chromatography and determination of the amino acid content (phenylalanine (Phe), tyrosine (Tyr), cysteine (Cys) and lysine (Lys)) in individual peptides. The results demonstrate decrease in peptide levels and their amino acids content in integral membrane proteins in human colorectal cancer tissue. Therefore, cancer transformation causes a decrease in the levels of integral membrane proteins, which may in turn lead to an increase in the levels of other charged molecules on the cell surface, such as phospholipids. It might lead to the reconstruction and functional rearrangement of the cell membrane, for example: the permeability, electric properties, fluidity etc.
A study of the antioxidative behavior of phenolic acids, in aqueous herb extracts, using a dsDNA biosensor
Authors: Skeva Elina , Girousi Stella
Published: May 2012

Electrochemical DNA biosensors are promising tools for the fast, inexpensive and simple in vitro analysis for the determination of free radicals and antioxidants. High concentrations of antioxidants in such compounds as phenolic acids and plant extracts, act as free radical terminators which reduce the effect of the oxidative dam-age on DNA. The electrochemical behavior of three representative phenolic acids, caffeic acid, gallic acid and trolox were studied by cyclic voltammetry. Moreover, the determination of the above antioxidants under the optimized conditions (scan rate, deposition potential and time) using differential pulse voltammetry was also investigated. In vitro studies focused on their antioxidative effect were performed by adsorptive transfer stripping voltammetry and dsDNA biosensor. Using Fenton’s system, with FeSO4 and H2O2 was chosen as a strong oxidative system. This biosensor was applied as a screening antioxidant test in order to estimate the antioxidant capacity of aqueous herb extracts.
The interaction of [Pd(N,N-dimethylaminopropylamine)(H2O)]2+ with dicarboxylic acids and inosine: Thermodynamic model for carboplatin drug
Authors: Shehate Mohamed , Shoukry Mohamed , Ragab Mona
Published: May 2012

The Pd(DMPA)Cl2 complex, where DMPA = N,N-dimethylaminoproylamine, was synthesized and characterized. The stoichiometry and stability constants of the complexes formed between various dicarboxylic acids and [Pd(DMPA)(H2O)2]2+ were investigated. The effect of solvent dielectric constant, chloride ion concentration of the medium and temperature on the stability constant of the cyclobutanedicaroxylic acid (CBDCA) complex was investigated. The equilibrium constants for the displacement of coordinated CBDCA by inosine, taken as an example of DNA constituents, were calculated. The results are expected to contribute to the chemistry of antitumour agents.
Prediction of properties of biodiesel-diesel blends using spectrofluorimetry and multivariate calibration
Authors: Meira Marilena , Quintella Cristina , Pepe Iuri , Costa Neto Pedro , Santos Tanajura Alessandra , Silva Humbervânia
Published: May 2012

Regressions based on fluorescence spectroscopy were developed to provide relatively inexpensive and rapid measurements of the concentration, viscosity, and specific gravity of biodiesel-diesel blends. The methods involved obtaining a mathematical model from spectrofluorimetric data and data from a given property (concentration, dynamic viscosity, or specific gravity) using partial least squares (PLS) regression, which was then applied as a model for predicting properties of interest. The predicted concentrations, dynamic viscosities, and specific gravities of the biodiesel-diesel blends were compared with actual values and agreed reasonably well with the obtained results. The models showed high correlation between real and predicted values. The R-square values near 1 indicated excellent model accuracy for predicting concentrations, specific gravities, and dynamic viscosities of biodiesel-diesel blends. The residual distribution did not follow a trend with respect to the predicted variables, indicating an excellent fit to the data.
A promising absorbent of acrylic acid/poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel prepared by glow-discharge electrolysis plasma
Authors: Lu Quanfang , Yu Jie , Gao Jinzhang , Yang Wu , Li Yan
Published: May 2012

An acrylic acid/poly(ethylene glycol) (AAc/PEG) hydrogel was synthesized in aqueous solution by a simple one-step method using glow-discharge electrolysis plasma (GDEP) technique. The structure of AAc/PEG hydrogel was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Factors influencing the adsorption of heavy-metal ions such as solution pH, contact time, initial heavy-metal ion concentration were examined systematically by batch experiments. Results showed that both chemical complexation and ion exchange played an important role for heavy-metal ion adsorption onto AAc/PEG hydrogel. The adsorption isothermals followed the Langmuir isotherm and the adsorption kinetics fitted the pseudo-second-order model at 25°C with a pH 6. In addition, AAc/PEG hydrogel can be also regenerated and re-used.
Voltammetric and amperometric determination of metoclopramide on boron-doped diamond film electrode
Authors: Dejmkova Hana , Dag Candan , Barek Jiri , Zima Jiri
Published: May 2012

New methods for the determination of metoclopramide, antiemetic and gastroprokinetic pharmaceutical, were developed, using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and flow injection analysis (FIA) with amperometric detection on a boron-doped diamond film electrode. Electrode pretreatment necessary to ensure the stable results was investigated and it was found, that while DPV requires frequent electrode cleaning, FIA with a sufficiently high flow rate can maintain a stable signal with no signs of electrode passivation. The calculated quantification limits of the DPV and FIA with amperometric detection were 0.13 μmol L−1 and 0.015 mmol L−1, respectively. The applicability of the new methods was verified by the determination of metoclopramide in a pharmaceutical preparation. FIA with amperometic detection proved to be sensitive, accurate and, due to the resistance of the electrode to the passivation, also simple to handle.
The dominant contribution on wet deposition of water-soluble main ions in the South-Eastern Adriatic region
Authors: Đurašković Pavle , Tošić Ivana , Unkašević Miroslava , Ignjatović Ljubiša , Đorđević Dragana
Published: May 2012

The results of content of water-soluble ions measured in 604 samples of precipitation collected in South-Eastern Adriatic region during 6 years have been analyzed. The HYSPLIT model was used to study the air mass paths. Although the ion concentrations of investigated ions in precipitation of air masses from the continental parts of Europe were significant, the total wet deposition is dominated by precipitation coming over the Mediterranean Sea. The sea salt components are significantly correlated. The correlations between Ca2+ and Mg2+, Ca2+ and SO42− and Ca2+ and K+ indicate the main terrigeneous ions.
Use of an immiscible diluent in ionic liquid / ion pair LC for the assay of an injectable analgesic
Authors: Galaon Toma , Radulescu Medeea , David Victor , Medvedovici Andrei
Published: May 2012

Injectable solutions used in treatment of intense pain are based on combinations of active ingredients such as metamizole sodium (MTZ), pitofenone hydrochloride (PTF) and fenpiverine bromide (FPB). The simultaneous chromatographic assay of such combinations poses difficulties due to their structural variety, highly polar character, and wide concentration ranges (500 mg mL−1 for MTZ, 2 mg mL−1 for PTF and 0.02 mg mL−1 for FPB). Fast hydrolysis of MTZ on aqueous dilution causes additional problems due to impurity (MTC) formation. Sodium hexane sulphonate (10 mM) was used as ion pairing agent for PTF, FPB and MTC in a mobile phase consisting of 48/52 (v/v) methanol and aqueous 0.2% triethylamine at pH=3. The ionic liquid 1-butyl-1-methyl-pyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate (10 mM) was used as mobile phase additive to preserve the MTZ peak symmetry. The minor active ingredient FPB was selectively extracted into 1-octanol by ion pair formation with picric acid. A 20 µL aliquot of the organic layer was directly injected into the column.
The classification of solvents based on solvatochromic characteristics: the choice of optimal parameters for artificial neural networks
Authors: Pushkarova Yaroslava , Kholin Yuriy
Published: May 2012

The Taft-Kamlet-Abboud hydrogen-bond acidity, hydrogen-bond basicity and polarity-polarizability are widely used as empirical characteristics of solvent-solute interactions. These solvatochromic parameters are determined from the absorption band positions of solvatochromic probes in the standard medium and in the medium under study. The practice of solvatochromic probing is growing rapidly, and the values of solvatochromic parameters are refined from time to time. As these values are rather close for many media, the classification of media based on these values can be tedious. This increases the choice of algorithms that can be employed in order to decrease the ambiguity of classification. The classification algorithms stable to small variations of solvatochromic parameters are of special interest. The artificial neural networks (ANN) proved to be a powerful tool for the supervised classification. The paper focuses on the search of optimal parameters of probabilistic, dynamic, Elman, feed-forward, and cascade ANN for the classification of solvent on the basis of their solvatochromic characteristics. Also, the influence of data variation on the stability of classification is examined. The dynamic and probabilistic neural networks have been found to be error-free and stable; they have significantly become such a common tool for supervised classification as linear discriminant analysis.
Thermo-responsiveness of polysiloxanes grafted with poly(dimethyl acrylamide) segments
Authors: Rusu Hodorog Anca , Ibanescu Constanta , Moleavin Ioana , Hurduc Nicolae
Published: May 2012

Thermo-sensitive polymers are of outstanding importance due to their ability to undergo controlled major changes in their properties as a response to minor modifications in temperature. The syntheses of novel polymers by grafting polysiloxane containing chlorobenzyl groups in the side chain by the homopolymerization of N,N′-dimethyl acrylamide (DMA) or the copolymerization of DMA and methyl methacrylate (MMA) using SET-LRP technique are presented. The polymers were characterized by 1H-NMR, UV, and fluorescence spectroscopy, and DSC. The thermo-sensitivity and the lower critical solution temperature (LCST), as well as the aggregation phenomena during the phase transition are evidenced by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and rheology.
Development of multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for simultaneous detection of matrix, haemagglutinin and neuraminidase genes of H5N1 avian influenza virus
Authors: Mojumder R. , Chowdhury E. H. , Parvin R , Begum J. A. , Giasuddin M. , Islam M. R.
Published: May 2012

Influenza A virus, subtype H5N1 causes a fatal disease in domestic poultry and could spread directly from poultry to humans. The aim of this study was to develop a multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (mRT-PCR) for simultaneous detection of Type A influenza virus-specific matrix protein (M) gene as well as H5 and N1 genes of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses. Finnzymes Phusion-Flash High- Fidelity PCR Master Mix (Finnzymes Oy, Finland) and Qiagen one-step RT-PCR enzyme mix (Qiagen, Germany) were used in a one-step RT-PCR. RNA was extracted from two known positive samples using Qiagen RNA extraction kit. RT-PCR was carried out with a mixture of primers specific for the Type A influenza virus matrix protein (M), and H5 and N1 genes of H5N1 HPAI viruses in a single reaction system. The mRT-PCR cDNA products were visualized by gel electrophoresis. The mRT-PCR yielded fragments of 245 bp for M, 545 bp for H5 and 343 bp for N1 genes of HPAI virus, which were clearly distinguishable. The mRT-PCR using the Finnzymes Phusion-Flash High-Fidelity PCR Master Mix (Finnzymes Oy, Finland) with Qiagen one-step RT-PCR Enzyme Mix (Qiagen, Germany) required only one hour and 20 minutes. (Bangl. vet. 2011. Vol. 28, No. 2, 55  59)DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bvet.v28i2.10653
Effects of age on growth and development of vagina in ISA Brown chickens
Authors: Ferdous K. A. , Parvez M. N. H. , Rahman M. T.
Published: May 2012

Structure and postnatal development of vagina in 21 ISA brown chickens was studied at three, 23 and 46 weeks of age. At 3 weeks of age the vagina was narrower and thicker then the uterus. The undifferentiated wall of vagina consisted of low primary mucosal folds lined by simple columnar epithelium to a pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium and a connective tissue layer underneath. At three weeks of age, scattered smooth muscle fibres were in the subepithelial connective tissue layer. Rapid structural changes occurred at 23 weeks of age in the adult bird, mucosal folds were narrowed and tongue-shaped. Lamina propia was devoid of glands and contained lymphocytes. Tunica muscularis was well developed at 23 and 46 weeks.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bvet.v28i2.10676Bangl. vet. 2011. Vol. 28, No. 2, 75  79
Pathological study on the upper respiratory tract infection of chickens and isolation, identification of causal bacteria
Authors: Popy N. , Asaduzzaman M. , Miah M. S. , Siddika A. , Sufian M. A. , Hossain M. M.
Published: May 2012

The proportional occurrence of bacteria and pathological lesions in the nasal sinuses and trachea of dead chickens were determined during 2008-2009. Nasal sinus and tracheal swabs from 50 dead birds were collected in sterile nutrient broth. The histopathological samples were collected in 10% neutral buffered formalin and studied with light microscope. The isolation and identification of bacteria were performed by culture, staining and biochemical tests. The proportional occurrence of bacteria in trachea (n = 50) and nasal sinuses (n = 50) of dead chickens was Klebsiella sp. (6.0%), Escherichia coli (38.8%), Pasteurella sp. (8.6%), Bacillus sp. (5.2%) and Staphylococcus sp. (41.4%). Congested trachea (n=3) and mucus-filled sinuses (n = 3) of dead chickens were studied for histopathology. Microscopically, rhinitis was characterized by infiltration of macrophages, lymphocytes and few neutrophils. The epithelium of nasal passage revealed pyknotic nucleus with disruption of epithelium. There was sinusitis with purulent and necrotic changes around the nasal sinus. The nasal sinuses were infiltrated with macrophages, lymphocytes and few plasma cells. The mucosal layer of the nasal turbinates showed pus and necrosis. There was disruption of different mucous glands with accumulation of macrophages, lymphocytes and plasma cells in the submucosa.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bvet.v28i2.10677 Bangl. vet. 2011. Vol. 28, No. 2, 60  69
Effects of probiotics on serum biochemical parameters in rats
Authors: Mustari A. , Ahmad N.
Published: May 2012

Twelve one-month-old rats (Rattus norvegicus) were randomly divided into three groups of four. All groups were fed commercial diet, 20 g/rat for seven days. In addition, groups A and B were given home made probiotic (curd), commercial probiotic (Bio-Top®). Total serum cholesterol in A, B and C was 91.6 ± 3.6, 92.1 ± 1.2 mg, 122.3 ± 4.9 mg/dl, respectively. Triglyceride in A (47.5 ± 16.4 mg/dl), B (44.0 ± 5.0 mg/dl) and C (146.4 ± 25.4 mg/dl) differed significantly (P<0.01). High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) in A (79.2 ± 0.4 mg/dl), B (80.5 ± 0.9 mg/dl), C (73.7 ± 1.3 mg/dl) and Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) in A (2.8 ± 0.2 mg/dl), B (2.9 ± 0.3 mg/dl), C (19.3 ± 5.9 mg/dl) also differed significantly (P<0.01). Serum aspartate transaminase (AST) in A (112.8 ± 1.4 U/L), B (110.5 ± 6.0 U/L),       C (134.2 ± 3.5 U/L), Serum alanine transaminase (ALT) in A (31.7 ± 2.3 U/L), B (27.3 ± 2.2 U/L), C (40.7 ± 5.7 U/L) differed significantly (P<0.01). Creatinine in A (0.8 ± 0.1 mg/dl), B (0.7 ± 0.1 mg/dl), C (0.7 ± 0.1 mg/dl) did not differ significantly. It is suggested that the probiotics altered blood chemistry in the rats.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bvet.v28i2.10685Bangl. vet. 2011. Vol. 28, No. 2, 70  74
Comparative performance of different regional native sheep in Bangladesh
Authors: Hassan M. R. , Talukder M. A. I.
Published: May 2012

This study was undertaken to investigate the performance of native sheep in Bangladesh. Data were collected during 2004-2010 from sheep of the Barind, Jamuna and Coastal areas. The phenotypic characteristics did not differ significantly, but ears were shorter in Barind than in Jamuna and Coastal sheep. The coat colour was 45% white, 26% brown, 24% white brown and 3% black brown in Barind and Jamuna sheep, but white (70%) and white brown (30%) in Coastal sheep. Differences were not significant for age at first heat, age at first pregnancy and age at first lambing. Days open and post-partum ewe weight were significantly (P<0.01) different. Onset of post-partum heat, lambing interval, gestation length, number of services per pregnancy, litter size and placental weight did not differ significantly. Birth weight was significantly (P<0.05) higher in Coastal sheep than in Barind and Jamuna. Higher (P<0.05) wool yield was obtained in Coastal sheep and in the summer. Though the wool was coarse and hairy, wool from Coastal sheep had more (P<0.05) bends per inch, and was finer. Diarrhoea, pneumonia in lambs and skin diseases were the most common diseases in all sheep. Though sheep from the different areas had similar performance, better reproductive performance was obtained in the Barind sheep.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bvet.v28i2.10692Bangl. vet. 2011. Vol. 28, No. 2, 85  94
Peritoneal Dialysis in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Okpechi Ikechi G. , Rayner Brian L. , Swanepoel Charles R.
Published: May 2012

Background

Chronic kidney disease is a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), which encompasses 70% of the least-developed countries in the world. Most people in SSA have no access to any form of renal replacement therapy (RRT). Given its ease of performance and patient independence, peritoneal dialysis (PD) should be an ideal form of RRT in SSA, but several complex and interdependent factors make PD a difficult option in SSA. The present review describes the practice of PD in SSA, with emphasis on Cape Town, South Africa.

Methods and Results

After a review of the recent PubMed literature on RRT in SSA and an appraisal of nephrology practice in South Africa, factors that make the provision of RRT (especially PD) a challenge in SSA include the low number of qualified health care workers, socio-demographic issues (poor housing, electricity, and water supplies), and the cost of PD fluids in the region. Although South Africa has the largest PD population in all of SSA, the growth of PD in South Africa is specifically impeded by the system of RRT rationing, which favors HD; the methods of funding for dialysis and for remuneration of doctors in private practice; and many other socio-economic factors. The peritonitis rate remains relatively high, and it is a significant contributor to morbidity in PD patients in Cape Town.

Conclusions

In many parts of SSA, PD could be the main dialysis modality. However, African governments must start taking responsibility for their people by providing adequate funds for renal replacement programs. Attempts to produce PD fluids locally and to train and educate health care workers will greatly improve the use of PD as a RRT option in SSA.
IS EAST ASIA AS PREPARED AS EUROZONE FOR MONETARY UNION?
Authors: Quah Chee-Heong
Published: May 2012

Based on optimum currency areas (OCA) theory and recent developments in the exchange rate regime literature, this paper evaluates the level of preparedness of East Asia for monetary integration by using the EMU as benchmark. Ten macroeconomic dimensions are explored in which the first five facets are measured relative to a reference country, namely the US, Japan, or China whilst the remaining five facets are measured in absolute terms, over the most recent years. In some ways, the exercise does signify the relative economic dominance of the three largest economies to the region. Results suggest that East Asia might be fairly prepared for a monetary integration especially when the reference country is the US. Another interesting observation is that amongst the eurozone founding members, Ireland has shown the lowest degree of conformity in a number of the criteria.
HUMAN CAPITAL AND SOCIAL CAPITAL IN ENTREPRENEURS AND MANAGERS OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES
Authors: Felício J. Augusto , Couto Eduardo , Caiado Jorge
Published: May 2012

This paper uses factor analysis methods to identify structures associated with human and social capital in a small country with an open-economy, based on a survey of small- and medium-sized companies across different sectors. The purpose of this research is to investigate the influences of entrepreneurial and managerial behaviours on the relationship between human capital and social capital. The results indicate that the principal factor is highly correlated to the variables of experience, professional proficiency and cognitive ability, which are predominant characteristics of the entrepreneur, as well as status variables such as interlinking, family support, personal relations and social relations. The study also suggests that links between human capital and social capital are more salient in manufacturing and construction companies than in the wholesale trade, retail trade and services sectors.
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER AND ENTERPRISE PERFORMANCE: A FIRM-LEVEL ANALYSIS IN CHINA
Authors: Bilgin Mehmet Huseyin , La Chi Keung Marco , Karabulut Gokhan
Published: May 2012

This paper attempts to explore the relationship between openness and a Chinese firm's productivity using 1999–2002 panel data on 26 industries covering 2400 enterprises. The current literature has focused mainly on the relationship between productivity and exports, using country-level data, leaving a gap in the relationship between imports and productivity unfilled, in particular at the firm specific level. However, our study complements the existing literature by using the latest set of data, and more importantly, by examining the effects of exports and importing machinery on the firm's performance. Using the dynamic panel data econometrics technique, we find evidence that firms can improve productivity by importing more capital good and utilizing foreign technologies from technologically advanced economies. Finally the effects of importing capital goods on productivities and that of exporting activities are compared.
CEO TURNOVER AND CORPORATE PERFORMANCE RELATIONSHIP IN PRE- AND POST- IFRS PERIOD: EVIDENCE FROM TURKEY
Authors: Durukan Banu , Ozkan Serdar , Dalkilic Fatih
Published: May 2012

This study investigates CEO turnover and corporate performance relationship as a measure of the effectiveness of a corporate governance system. The impact of different financial accounting regimes on the turnover/performance relationship is also analyzed. If systems replace poorly performing managers, they are considered as not ineffective. The results provide evidence that corporate governance systems with poor governance characteristics may not be ineffective, due to the existence of alternative governance mechanisms. The disciplinary CEO turnover is found to be more strongly associated with corporate performance compared to voluntary CEO turnover, whereas in the IFRS subsample the relationship is stronger with contemporaneous performance measures.
ARE THE DETERMINANTS OF YOUNG SME PROFITABILITY DIFFERENT? EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE USING DYNAMIC ESTIMATORS
Authors: Nunes Paulo Maçãs , Viveiros Ana , Serrasqueiro Zélia
Published: May 2012

Using two step method, namely probit regressions and dynamic estimators, and on the basis of two sub-samples of Portuguese SMEs: 1) 495 young SMEs; and 2) 1350 old SMEs, this study seeks to verify if age is a important factor of the relationships between determinants and profitability. Age, size, liquidity and long-term debt are of greater relative importance for the increased profitability, while risk is of greater relative importance for diminished profitability of young SMEs, compared to the case of old SMEs. R&D expenditure is of greater relative importance for increased profitability in old SMEs. Additionally, old SMEs have more persistent profitability than do young SMEs.
MORE THAN JUST GOOD GRADES: CANDIDATES’ PERCEPTIONS ABOUT THE SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES EMPLOYERS SEEK IN NEW GRADUATES
Authors: Velasco Manuel Salas
Published: May 2012

There is a common belief among university students that they have to study hard attempting to earn high grades because employers are targeting graduates with outstanding academic records. However, this idea does not seem to capture what is actually happening in organizations, as firms value more aspects related with personality and other personal qualities of young graduates. We present a case study of the hiring process of recent university graduates to test these hypotheses. The methodology used follows a two stage approach. Principal component analysis allows us to identify first key categories of skills and attributes that influence the selection process. Then, using econometric analysis, a matrix classifies them according to employer size and type, degree, position and industry. The results show that soft skills (personality and other qualities) are the most required attributes in the selection process. Good academic records only matter in the public sector.
THE EFFECT OF PRO-ENTREPRENEURSHIP ARCHITECTURE ON ORGANISATIONAL OUTCOMES
Authors: Urban Boris
Published: May 2012

Recent years have seen considerable work at the interface between business, management, entrepreneurship and strategy and as a result, new research domains have appeared including corporate entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial strategy. The purpose of this article is to understand the effect that corporate entrepreneurship strategy has on firms to revitalize, reconfigure resources and transform into firms that are ready to compete in the global economy. Empirical tests are conducted to determine to what extent elements of pro-entrepreneurship architecture are able to predict development capability, strategic repositioning, and growth based outcomes. A first-phase survey is conducted to verify the presence and strength of entrepreneurial orientation while the second phase of the study identifies elements of organizational architecture able to predict firm outcomes. The main contribution of this article is that firms resourcing and rewarding policies, as well as cultural and structural orientations, derived from a corporate entrepreneurship strategy, play a significant role in realizing desired outcomes. The study has important implications for emerging economies where growth is often the primary goal of organizations, and where corporate entrepreneurship can be critical for firm profitability and survival.
A RESOURCE-BASED PERSPECTIVE ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SERVICE DIVERSIFICATION AND FIRM PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM ITALIAN FACILITY MANAGEMENT FIRMS
Authors: Giachetti Claudio
Published: May 2012

In this article, a theoretical framework to study the effect of service diversification on firm financial performance is demonstrated. Data on 48 Italian facility management firms from between 2000 and 2009 show a consistent inverse U-shaped relationship between service diversification and firm performance, with the slope positive at low and moderate levels of service diversification but negative at high levels of service diversification. Further, the results show that firm experience in the service industry and firm affiliation to a consortium positively moderate the relationship between service diversification and performance. The results of this study provide evidence of the importance of service diversification strategies for gaining a competitive advantage.
ESTABLISHING SPV FOR POWER PROJECTS IN ASIA: AN ANALYSIS OF CRITICAL FINANCIAL AND LEGAL FACTORS
Authors: Chowdhury Abu Naser , Chen Po-Han , Tiong Robert Lee Kong
Published: May 2012

One of the main reasons for the success of Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects is the creation of separate commercial venture named ‘Special Purpose Vehicle’ (SPV). SPV provides a good framework for raising funds, linking participants legally and assuring supply, production and marketing of products. SPV brings together various parties like lenders, financial institutions, public sector and export credit agencies, guarantors, suppliers and off-takers. There is often a lack of precedents to identify factors of SPV and the process is further hampered by undeveloped financial and legal structures of a country. A number of factors need to be considered before setting up of SPV for PPP projects. A questionnaire survey was thus conducted to explore the most important factors in setting up SPV for PPP power projects from a wide range of personnel involved in the PPP processes in Asia. The objective of this paper is to investigate the current practice of setting up SPV and associated legal and financial impacts onto it. Analysis of the response data reflects experts’ opinion in identifying the influential factors and the choices in setting up SPV for PPP power projects in Asia. The findings of the paper would help the public sector in implementing PPP power policy development and private sector sponsors in managing the projects.
Larval diet prior to and following virus ingestion influences the efficacy of two nucleopolyhedroviruses in whitemarked tussock moth (Orgyia leucostigma) caterpillars
Authors: Brodersen Garrett , Johns Rob , Lapointe Renée , Thumbi David , Thurston Graham , Lucarotti Christopher J. , Quiring Dan
Published: May 2012

Food quality can influence the performance of immature insects and their interactions with pathogens, such as viruses. In manipulative field studies, virus-free caterpillars of the whitemarked tussock moth (WMTM) (Orgyia leucostigma (Smith)) had higher survival, more female-biased sex ratios, and were larger when feeding on white birch (Betula papyrifera Marshall) versus balsam fir (Abies balsamea (Linnaeus) Miller) or red spruce (Picea rubens Sargent). Subsequent laboratory studies with two nucleopolyhedroviruses, derived from WMTMs and Douglas-fir tussock moths, indicated that caterpillars fed high quality food (i.e., artificial diet) prior to infection had less mortality associated with virus infection than those feeding on lower quality foliage (i.e., birch). In field studies, caterpillars fed birch following infection had significantly lower mortality than those feeding on relatively lower quality foliage (i.e., balsam fir). We postulate that higher nutritional quality in artificial diet relative to birch (previrus-ingestion nutrition) and in birch relative to balsam fir foliage (postvirus-ingestion nutrition) has a positive effect on the ability of tussock moth caterpillars to resist or recover from viral infections, although the specific mechanisms responsible for observed resistance remain unclear.
Lethal and sublethal effects of some insecticides recommended for wild blueberry on the pollinator Bombus impatiens
Authors: Gradish A.E. , Scott-Dupree C.D. , Frewin A.J. , Cutler G.C.
Published: May 2012

Managed and wild colonies of common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens Cresson) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) are effective pollinators of wild blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Aiton) (Ericaceae) in Atlantic Canada. Because insecticides are used during bloom to manage insect pests, bumble bees may be at risk of exposure. We therefore assessed the susceptibility of B. impatiens to some insecticides used or projected for use in blueberry pest management. Workers were killed by topical applications of spinosad, spinetoram, deltamethrin, and phosmet, but not flubendiamide. Similarly, when ingested in honey solution, spinetoram and deltamethrin were toxic, whereas flubendiamide did not cause mortality up to double its recommended label rate. In another experiment, workers were fed one sublethal dose of contaminated honey solution and placed in microcolonies to assess impacts on feeding, life span, and reproduction. The highest concentration of deltamethrin (17 mg a.i./L) reduced feeding. Workers treated with deltamethrin had shortened life spans and produced fewer males. Flubendiamide (2000 mg a.i./L) and spinetoram (0.8 mg a.i./L) caused no sublethal effects. These results indicate that flubendiamide should be safe to apply to blueberries where B. impatiens is foraging, while some other insecticides we tested may be hazardous under different exposure scenarios.