bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Business Process Representation Type on Assessment of Business and Control Risks: Diagrams versus Narratives
Authors: Boritz J. Efrim , Borthick A. Faye , Presslee Adam
Published: February 2012

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) (U.S. House of Representatives 2002) mandates the assessment of internal controls over financial reporting, and many organizations are using diagrams to document their internal control processes. While educators regularly stress the effectiveness of diagrammatic representation of process information over textual representation, no prior study has offered convincing evidence that diagrammatic representation leads to improved performance. In an experiment, we examine students' performance on a business process risk and control assessment task using two informationally equivalent methods that are commonly taught in the classroom to document business processes: descriptive narrative (hereafter, textual) and diagrammatic. We also examine whether students' academic achievement and perceptions of their ability (self-efficacy) affect performance by type of representation. First, we find that while the method of representation has no effect on students' accuracy, those receiving the textual representation were more efficient and had a greater weighted-average performance than those receiving the diagrammatic representation. Second, we find academic achievement increases students' accuracy, decreases their efficiency, and has no effect on their weighted-average performance. Third, we find self-efficacy has no effect on students' accuracy, has no effect on their efficiency, and decreases their weighted-average performance. Finally, we find that both self-efficacy and academic achievement interact with the type of representation to affect students' performance. Implications for education and practice are discussed.
Glucose-Induced Nuclear Shuttling of ChREBP Is Mediated by Sorcin and Ca2+ Ions in Pancreatic β-Cells
Authors: Noordeen Nafeesa A. , Meur Gargi , Rutter Guy A. , Leclerc Isabelle
Published: February 2012

Carbohydrate-responsive element-binding protein (ChREBP) is a regulator of pancreatic β-cell gene expression and an important mediator of glucotoxicity. Glucose increases the activity and nuclear localization of ChREBP by still ill-defined mechanisms. Here we reveal, using both MIN6 and primary mouse β-cells, a unique mechanism behind ChREBP nuclear translocation. At low glucose concentrations, ChREBP interacts with sorcin, a penta EF hand Ca2+ binding protein, and is sequestered in the cytosol. Sorcin overexpression inhibits ChREBP nuclear accumulation at high glucose and reduced the activity of L-type pyruvate kinase (L-PK) and TxNIP promoters, two well-characterized ChREBP target genes. Sorcin inactivation by RNA interference increases ChREBP nuclear localization and in vivo binding to the L-PK promoter at low glucose concentrations. Ca2+ influx was essential for this process since Ca2+ chelation with EGTA, or pharmacological inhibition with diazoxide and nifedipine, blocked the effects of glucose. Conversely, mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ with ATP caused the nuclear accumulation of ChREBP. Finally, sorcin silencing inhibited ATP-induced increases in intracellular Ca2+ and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. We therefore conclude that sorcin retains ChREBP in the cytosol at low glucose concentrations and may act as a Ca2+ sensor for glucose-induced nuclear translocation and the activation of ChREBP-dependent genes.
Sodium Butyrate Stimulates Expression of Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 in Liver by Inhibition of Histone Deacetylase 3
Authors: Li Huating , Gao Zhanguo , Zhang Jin , Ye Xin , Xu Aimin , Ye Jianping , Jia Weiping
Published: February 2012

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) stimulates fatty acid oxidation and ketone body production in animals. In this study, we investigated the role of FGF21 in the metabolic activity of sodium butyrate, a dietary histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. FGF21 expression was examined in serum and liver after injection of sodium butyrate into dietary obese C57BL/6J mice. The role of FGF21 was determined using antibody neutralization or knockout mice. FGF21 transcription was investigated in liver and HepG2 hepatocytes. Trichostatin A (TSA) was used in the control as an HDAC inhibitor. Butyrate was compared with bezafibrate and fenofibrate in the induction of FGF21 expression. Butyrate induced FGF21 in the serum, enhanced fatty acid oxidation in mice, and stimulated ketone body production in liver. The butyrate activity was significantly reduced by the FGF21 antibody or gene knockout. Butyrate induced FGF21 gene expression in liver and hepatocytes by inhibiting HDAC3, which suppresses peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-α function. Butyrate enhanced bezafibrate activity in the induction of FGF21. TSA exhibited a similar set of activities to butyrate. FGF21 mediates the butyrate activity to increase fatty acid use and ketogenesis. Butyrate induces FGF21 transcription by inhibition of HDAC3.
Comparison of Various Lipid Variables as Predictors of Coronary Heart Disease in Japanese Men and Women With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Sone Hirohito , Tanaka Sachiko , Tanaka Shiro , Iimuro Satoshi , Ishibashi Shun , Oikawa Shinichi , Shimano Hitoshi , Katayama Shigehiro , Ohashi Yasuo , Akanuma Yasuo , Yamada Nobuhiro ,   on behalf of the Japan Diabetes Complications Study Group
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

To determine the best lipid variable to predict coronary heart disease (CHD) in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Eligible Japanese men and women (1,771) aged 40–70 years with type 2 diabetes from 59 institutes nationwide were followed for a planned 8-year period. The performance of eight conventional lipid variables, i.e., total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (LDLC), HDL-cholesterol (HDLC), triglycerides (TGs), non-HDLC, TC/HDLC ratio, LDLC/HDLC ratio, and TG/HDLC ratio, as predictors of incident CHD were evaluated by four methods: hazard ratio (HR) per one SD increment by multivariate Cox analysis, χ2 likelihood ratio test, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and tertile analysis.

RESULTS

Although all variables significantly predicted CHD events in men, non-HDLC (HR per one SD 1.78 [95% CI 1.43–2.21]; AUC 0.726) and TC/HDLC (HR 1.63 [1.36–1.95]; AUC 0.718) had the better predictive performances among the variables, including LDLC. In women, TGs (log-transformed; HR 1.72 [1.21–2.43]; AUC 0.708) were the best predictor according to results of tertile analysis (HR of the top tertile versus the bottom tertile 4.31 [1.53–12.16]). The associations with incident CHD were linear and continuous.

CONCLUSIONS

For Japanese diabetic men, non-HDLC and TC/HDLC were the best predictors, whereas TGs were most predictive for women. These findings, which included prominent sex differences, should be considered among clinical approaches to risk reduction among East Asians with diabetes.
One Risk Assessment Tool for Cardiovascular Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, and Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Alssema Marjan , Newson Rachel S. , Bakker Stephan J.L. , Stehouwer Coen D.A. , Heymans Martijn W. , Nijpels Giel , Hillege Hans L. , Hofman Albert , Witteman Jacqueline C.M. , Gansevoort Ron T. , Dekker Jacqueline M.
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

Individuals at high risk for chronic cardiometabolic disease (cardiovascular disease [CVD], type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease [CKD]) share many risk factors and would benefit from early intervention. We developed a nonlaboratory-based risk-assessment tool for identification of people at high cardiometabolic disease risk.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data of three population-based cohorts from different regions of the Netherlands were merged. Participants were 2,840 men and 3,940 women, white, aged 28–85 years, free from CVD, type 2 diabetes, and CKD diagnosis at baseline. The outcome was developing cardiometabolic disease during 7 years follow-up.

RESULTS

Age, BMI, waist circumference, antihypertensive treatment, smoking, family history of myocardial infarction or stroke, and family history of diabetes were significant predictors, whereas former smoking, history of gestational diabetes, and use of lipid-lowering medication were not. The models showed acceptable calibration (Hosmer and Lemeshow statistics, P > 0.05) and discrimination (area under the receiver operating characteristic [ROC] curve 0.82 [95% CI 0.81–0.83] for women and 0.80 [0.78–0.82] for men). Discrimination of individual outcomes was lowest for diabetes (area under the ROC curve 0.70 for men and 0.73 for women) and highest for CVD mortality (0.83 for men and 0.85 for women).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate that a single risk stratification tool can identify people at high risk for future CVD, type 2 diabetes, and/or CKD. The present risk-assessment tool can be used for referring the highest risk individuals to health care for further (multivariable) risk assessment and may as such serve as an important part of prevention programs targeting chronic cardiometabolic disease.
Combined Influence of Insulin Resistance, Overweight/Obesity, and Fatty Liver as Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Sung Ki-Chul , Jeong Woo-Shin , Wild Sarah H. , Byrne Christopher D.
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

There is dissociation between insulin resistance, overweight/obesity, and fatty liver as risk factors for type 2 diabetes, suggesting that different mechanisms are involved. Our aim was to 1) quantify risk of incident diabetes at follow-up with different combinations of these risk factors at baseline and 2) determine whether each is an independent risk factor for diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We examined 12,853 subjects without diabetes from a South Korean occupational cohort, and insulin resistance (IR) (homeostasis model assessment-IR ≥75th centile, ≥2.0), fatty liver (defined by standard ultrasound criteria), and overweight/obesity (BMI ≥25 kg/m2) identified at baseline. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident diabetes at 5-year follow-up were estimated using logistic regression.

RESULTS

We identified 223 incident cases of diabetes from which 26 subjects had none of the three risk factors, 37 had one, 56 had two, and 104 had three. In the fully adjusted model, the OR and CI for diabetes were 3.92 (2.86–5.37) for IR, 1.62 (1.17–2.24) for overweight/obesity, and 2.42 (1.74–3.36) for fatty liver. The OR for the presence of all three factors in a fully adjusted model was 14.13 (8.99–22.21).

CONCLUSIONS

The clustering of IR, overweight/obesity, and fatty liver is common and markedly increases the odds of developing type 2 diabetes, but these factors also have effects independently of each other and of confounding factors. The data suggest that treatment for each factor is needed to decrease risk of type 2 diabetes.
Reliability of Fiber Post Bonding to Root Canal Dentin After Simulated Clinical Function In Vitro
Authors: Bitter K , Perdigão J , Exner M , Neumann K , Kielbassa AM , Sterzenbach G
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of thermomechanical loading (TML) on the bond strength of fiber posts luted with three different resin cements.

Sixty-six extracted human anterior teeth were endodontically treated and restored with fiber posts (RelyX Fiber Posts, 3M ESPE) using three commercially available resin cements and three corresponding core build-up materials (n=22 each): Panavia F 2.0/Clearfil DC Core Automix (Kuraray), Variolink II/Multicore Flow (Ivoclar Vivadent), and RelyX Unicem/Filtek Z250 (3M ESPE). Twelve specimens of each group received all-ceramic crowns and were subjected to TML. The other 10 specimens were stored in saline solution for 24 hours. The roots were sectioned and bond strength was measured using a push-out test. Adhesive interfaces of two specimens of each group subjected to TML were analyzed using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM).

Bond strengths of fiber posts were significantly affected by the type of resin cement (p<0.0005) and TML (p<0.0005; two-way analysis of variance). TML significantly reduced bond strengths for all materials ((6.0 (6.2) MPa)) compared with initial bond strengths ((14.9 (10.4) MPa)). RelyX Unicem resulted in significantly higher bond strengths before ((18.3 (10.3) MPa)) and after TML ((9.8 (7.5) MPa)) compared with the other materials (p<0.0005; Tukey HSD). Using FESEM, Variolink II and Panavia F demonstrated a hybrid layer partly detached from the underlying resin cement, whereas no hybrid layer was observed for RelyX Unicem.

The decrease in bond strength after TML suggests that retention of fiber posts may be reduced after clinical function. Therefore, endodontically treated teeth that are restored using fiber posts may benefit from additional reinforcement via coronal restorations using adequate ferrules and/or adhesive techniques.
Enhanced Sweet Corn Propagation: Studies on Transplanting Feasibility and Seed Priming
Authors: El-Hamed Khalid , Elwan Mohammed , Shaban Walied
Published: February 2012

Enhanced Sweet Corn Propagation: Studies on Transplanting Feasibility and Seed Priming

Sweet corn hybrids with high-sugar genotypes (sh2
) has inherent problem of low seed emergence and stand in the field. This study was conducted to determine the effect of seed size, tray cell size and growing media components on sweet corn transplant transplanting. Other objectives were to evaluate the effect of priming sweet corn seeds on germination in the field. Bio-priming with Trichoderma and Bacillus, osmopriming with KNO3, and hydro-priming with H2O have been tested. The results indicated that transplanting sweet corn is feasible with high quality transplants from seeds that germinate well in disease-free environment. Large sweet corn seeds, large tray cells, and vermiculite-based growing media proved to gave higher germination percentages. While same factors did not show pronounced effect on seedling performance in terms of root and shoot length and fresh weight. In the priming experiment, the bio-priming treatment showed the highest germination of seeds percentage among other priming treatments and the control. Sweet corn seeds treated with Bacillus megaterium germinated 50% higher than seeds treated with Trichoderma spp. as bio-control agents. Aspergillus niger, and Penicillium represented 65% of pathogens responsible for failure of sweet corn seed germination. The results of this study demonstrated the feasibility of enhanced sweet corn seed propagation through transplanting and seed priming to improve emergence and field stand.
The Meatring of Beetroot Seeds Sowing Quality with the Use of Precision Seed Plate Planter
Authors: Zarajczyk Janusz , Sobczak Paweł
Published: February 2012

The Meatring of Beetroot Seeds Sowing Quality with the Use of Precision Seed Plate Planter

This paper presents the results of the laboratory research concerning assessment of the quality of sowing Czerwona Kula beetroot seeds by means of S071 Kruk seeder. The research showed significant influence of the seeder operating speed on the quality of sowing, expressed in percentage of single, double and skipped plants. The most regular dosage of seeds in a row was obtained at the seeder's operating speed of 0.6 m·s-1 and sowing disk's peripheral speed of 0.6 m·s-1. Increase of the seeder operating speed above 0.6 m·s-1 caused deterioration of the beetroot seeds distribution in a row. Thus, it can be concluded that the seeder operating speed significantly affected the quality of Czerwona Kula beetroot sowing.
Carpophore Dry Matter Content of Several Agaricus Bisporus (Lange) Imbach and Agaricus Bitorquis (Quel) Sacc. Strains Found in Natural Habitats
Authors: Sobieralski Krzysztof , Siwulski Marek , Lisiecka Jolanta , Szymański Jan , Jasińska Agnieszka
Published: February 2012

Carpophore Dry Matter Content of Several Agaricus Bisporus (Lange) Imbach and Agaricus Bitorquis (Quel) Sacc. Strains Found in Natural Habitats

Carpophore dry matter content of several strains of A. bisporus and A. bitorquis obtained from natural habitats was investigated. Two cultivated mushroom strains were used as the control. It was found that the dry matter content of the fruiting bodies differed depending on the strain as well as the species of the analyzed mushrooms. The highest carpophore dry matter content was determined in the strains obtained from the natural environment. The highest dry matter content in the fruiting bodies was determined in A. bisporus Ab/ZW/4 - 11.2% and A. bitorquis Ab/L/11 - 9.6%, as well as in the cultivated strain K26 - 9.3%.
Neopterin, cellular adhesion molecules and myeolperoxidase in patients with stable and unstable angina pectoris
Authors: Tretjakovs Pēteris , Jurka Antra , Bormane Inga , Miķelsone Indra , Reihmane Dace , Krieviņa Gita , Marksa Iveta , Elksne Karlīna , Verbovenko Jurijs , Bahs Guntis
Published: February 2012

Neopterin, cellular adhesion molecules and myeolperoxidase in patients with stable and unstable angina pectoris

Recent data indicate that the serum level of neopterin, a marker of inflammation and immune modulator secreted by monocytes/macrophages, is elevated in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and seems to be a prognostic marker for major cardiovascular events. Soluble cellular adhesion molecules (sCAMs) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels are also related to ACS. The aim of the present study was to evaluate differences in serum levels of neopterin, sCAMs and MPO between coronary artery disease and metabolic syndrome (CAD-MetS) patients with stable and unstable angina pectoris (SAP, UAP), and to clarify the relationships between neopterin and other biomarkers. The study included 60 patients with CAD-MetS who were classified into two groups, 30 patients with SAP and 30 patients with UAP. Twenty healthy subjects were selected as controls (C). Serum soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), sE-selectin and MPO levels were measured by Luminex xMAP technology, and serum neopterin concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay. Results: Serum levels of neopterin, MPO, sVCAM-1, sICAM-1, and sE-selectin were significantly higher in patients with UAP in comparison with the group of healthy controls (P < 0.05). Patients with SAP also had higher levels of these biomarkers than those in healthy controls (P < 0.05), except for sE-selectin. The biomarker level did not differ between the two patient groups, except for MPO, which was significantly higher in the USP group (P < 0.05). Neopterin was significantly correlated only with sVCAM-1 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, CAD-Met patients with SAP had more apparent raised levels of serum sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1, simultaneously with higher MPO and neopterin concentrations, in comparison to those in healthy subjects. However, UAP is also associated with more substantial changes in MPO and significantly increased sE-selectin levels. Neopterin concentration was had a close correlation only with sVCAM-1.
Methods for Estimation of Optical Fiber Non-Linearity Using Self-Phase Modulation Effect
Authors: Supe A. , Porins J.
Published: February 2012

Methods for Estimation of Optical Fiber Non-Linearity Using Self-Phase Modulation Effect

Due to ever increasing channel density in WDM systems the nonlinear optical effects in fibers become a limiting factor for the high-speed data transmission, which necessitates determination of such important characteristic as the coefficient of optical nonlinearity. To measure it, two methods are proposed: continuous wave self-phase modulation (CW-SPM) and pulse phase self-modulation (P-SPM). The research work has been carried out both in the form of calculations and experimentally, taking as wavelength the central one from the third optical transparency window, λ = 1550 nm. Based on the OptSim 5.2 simulations and experimental results, the sought-for nonlinear coefficients have been calculated. In the paper, comparative analysis and estimation of the results are performed for two different optical fibers.
An Adaptive Vibration Control Procedure Based on Symbolic Solution of Diophantine Equation
Authors: Leniowska Lucyna
Published: February 2012

In this paper, the adaptive control based on symbolic solution of Diophantine equation is used to suppress circular plate vibrations. It is assumed that the system to be regulated is unknown. The plate is excited by a uniform force over the bottom surface generated by a loudspeaker. The axially-symmetrical vibrations of the plate are measured by the application of the strain sensors located along the plate radius, and two centrally placed piezoceramic discs are used to cancel the plate vibrations. The adaptive control scheme presented in this work has the ability to calculate the error sensor signals, to compute the control effort and to apply it to the actuator within one sampling period. For precise identification of system model the regularized RLS algorithm has been applied. Self-tuning controller of RST type, derived for the assumed system model of the 4th order is used to suppress the plate vibration. Some numerical examples illustrating the improvement gained by incorporating adaptive control are demonstrated.
Numerical study of fluid flow and power consumption in a stirred vessel with a Scaba 6SRGT impeller
Authors: Ameur Houari , Bouzit Mohamed , Helmaoui Mustapha
Published: February 2012

Numerical study of fluid flow and power consumption in a stirred vessel with a Scaba 6SRGT impeller

The present work deals with agitation of non-Newtonian fluids in a stirred vessel by Scaba impellers. A commercial CFD package (CFX 12.0) was used to solve the 3D hydrodynamics and to characterise at every point flow patterns especially in the region swept by the impeller. A shear thinning fluid with yield stress was modelled. The influence of agitator speed, impeller location and blade size on the fluid flow and power consumption was investigated. The results obtained are compared with available experimental data and a good agreement is observed. It was found that an increase in blade size is beneficial to enlargement of the well stirred region, but that results in an increased power consumption. A short distance between the impeller and the tank walls limits the flow around the agitator and yields higher power consumption. Thus, the precise middle of the tank is the most appropriate position for this kind of impeller.
Modelling of NO adsorption in fixed bed on activated carbon
Authors: Kuboňová Lenka , Obalová Lucie , Vlach Oldřich , Troppová Ivana , Kalousek Jaroslav
Published: February 2012

Modelling of NO adsorption in fixed bed on activated carbon

Adsorption experiments of nitric oxide in nitrogen carrier gas were held on activated carbon in a fixed bed flow system. Breakthrough curves describing the dependence of exit concentrations of nitric oxide on time were matched with theoretical response curves calculated from the linear driving force model (LDF). The model assumes Langmuir adsorption isotherm for the description of non-linear equilibrium and overall mass transfer coefficient for mass transfer mechanism. Overall mass transfer coefficients were obtained by the method of least squares for fitting numerically modelled breakthrough curves with experimental breakthrough curves. It was found that LDF model fits all the breakthrough curves and it is a useful tool for modelling purposes.
Anti-solvent sonocrystallisation of lactose
Authors: Patel Sanjaykumar , Murthy Z.
Published: February 2012

Anti-solvent sonocrystallisation of lactose

The present work deals with ultrasound assisted crystallisation of lactose from lactose solution. The crystallisation of lactose was completed rapidly by applying the ultrasound waves in the presence of an anti-solvent (n-propanol), at the room temperature (30±3°C). The yield of lactose was found to be more than 85% (w/w) in 4 minutes of sonication. The spread of the crystal size distribution was found to decrease with increase in sonication time.
Cholesterol and Lipid Peroxides in Animal Products and Health Implications - A Review
Authors: Orczewska-Dudek Sylwia , Bederska-Łojewska Dorota , Pieszka Marek , Pietras Mariusz
Published: February 2012

Cholesterol and Lipid Peroxides in Animal Products and Health Implications - A Review

The level of oxysterols in animal products depends on the temperature used in food processing, duration of heating, and storage time and conditions. High temperature, oxygen, exposure to light, chemical composition of the product and low level of antioxidants accelerate the formation of cholesterol oxidation products (COPs). Also the high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in meat and eggs favours the formation of oxysterols. Dairy products are characterized by the lowest content of COPs of all animal products. The most common oxysterols present in products of animal origin are 7-ketocholesterol, 20α-hydroxycholesterol, 25-hydroxycholesterol and α, β-epoxycholesterol. Numerous studies have confirmed the adverse effects of COPs on animal and human health. They exhibit mutagenic, carcinogenic, angiogenic and toxic action, damage cell membranes, and inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis. The use of certain antioxidants in animal nutrition limits the formation of COPs during technological processing of meat, eggs and milk, as well as during storage of fresh products. The excessive oxidation of cholesterol can be additionally prevented through the use of appropriate packaging that limits oxygen and light exposure.
The Effects of Crossing Balkan and Saanen Goat Breeds on Carcass Traits and Certain Quality Parameters of Kid Meat
Authors: Stanišić Nikola , Žujović Miroslav , Tomić Zorica , Maksimović Nevena , Bijelić Zorica , Ivanović Snežana , Memiši Nurgin
Published: February 2012

The Effects of Crossing Balkan and Saanen Goat Breeds on Carcass Traits and Certain Quality Parameters of Kid Meat

The possibility for improvement of carcass traits and quality of kid meat of the autochthonous Balkan goat breed by crossing with Saanen breed was investigated in this study. The trial was carried out on one group of Balkan goat kids and three groups of kid crosses of Balkan and Saanen goats with different proportion of Saanen genes: 25, 50 and 75%. Each group had 16 male kids, which were slaughtered at the average body weight of 18 kg. With the increase in the proportion of Saanen genes, the age of kids that reached preslaughter weight decreased, the chilling loss increased and the proportion of fat tissue (kidney and pelvic fat) in the carcass side decreased (P≤0.05). The crossing also increased the proportion of carcass parts of the first category (leg and loin section), as well as muscle tissue in those parts. The highest proportion of muscle tissue in the thigh (74.91%) and loin section (75.66%) was determined in kids from the group with 75% of Saanen genes, and kids from this group also had the highest proportion of intramuscular fat (2.48%) in samples of m. longissimus dorsi. Slight differences between kid groups were established in indicators of technological meat properties, such as water binding capacity and tenderness, with the increase in the proportion of Saanen genes in the genotype. Sensory score for roasted meat was high, and scores for tenderness and juiciness were slightly higher in kid crosses with 50% and 75% of Saanen genes (P≤0.05). Results presented in this study confirm the positive effect of crossing the Saanen breed with the Balkan breed on carcass traits and for obtaining meat of more desirable quality.
Theoretical shortcomings of the Grossman model
Authors: Hren Rok
Published: February 2012

Theoretical shortcomings of the Grossman model

This article contains a review of the seminal Grossman model from a perspective of assumptions and simplifications, which were necessary to make the model tractable. The Grossman model emphasises health as a fundamental commodity, which implies that the demand for healthcare is a derived demand; in the model, individuals are both consumers and producers of health. The model predicts that an individual would invest in health until the marginal benefit of health equals its marginal cost; this equilibrium demand for health entails that the length of an individual's life would be determined endogenously. This review also discusses the model's refinements and extensions that have relaxed some of the constraints of the original model. In spite of its shortcomings, the Grossman model remains — even after 40 years — one of the few models in the realm of health economics, which attempts to conceptualise the complex demand for health and healthcare both theoretically and empirically.
Perceptions of usability and usefulness of digital libraries
Authors: Matusiak Krystyna K.
Published: February 2012

This paper provides an overview of a case study research that investigated the use of Digital Library (DL) resources in two undergraduate classes and explored faculty and students' perceptions of educational digital libraries. This study found that students and faculty use academic DLs primarily for textual resources, but turn to the open Web for visual and multimedia resources. The study participants did not perceive academic libraries as a useful source of digital images and used search engines when searching for visual resources.

The limited use of digital library resources for teaching and learning is associated with perceptions of usefulness and ease of use, especially if considered in a broader information landscape, in conjunction with other library information systems, and in the context of Web resources. The limited use of digital libraries is related to the following perceptions: 1) Library systems are not viewed as user-friendly, which in turn discourages potential users from trying DLs provided by academic libraries; 2) Academic libraries are perceived as places of primarily textual resources; perceptions of usefulness, especially in regard to relevance of content, coverage, and currency, seem to have a negative effect on user intention to use DLs, especially when searching for visual materials.
In the Blink of an Eye: Investigating the Role of Awareness in Fear Responding by Measuring the Latency of Startle Potentiation
Authors: Åsli Ole , Flaten Magne A.
Published: February 2012

The latency of startle reflex potentiation may shed light on the aware and unaware processes underlying associative learning, especially associative fear learning. We review research suggesting that single-cue delay classical conditioning is independent of awareness of the contingency between the conditioned stimulus (CS) and the unconditioned stimulus (US). Moreover, we discuss research that argues that conditioning independent of awareness has not been proven. Subsequently, three studies from our lab are presented that have investigated the role of awareness in classical conditioning, by measuring the minimum latency from CS onset to observed changes in reflexive behavior. In sum, research using this method shows that startle is potentiated 30 to 100 ms after CS onset following delay conditioning. Following trace fear conditioning, startle is potentiated 1500 ms after CS presentation. These results indicate that the process underlying delay conditioned responding is independent of awareness, and that trace fear conditioned responding is dependent on awareness. Finally, this method of investigating the role of awareness is discussed and future research possibilities are proposed.
The Genetics of Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation: Comparative Genomics of 14 Rhizobia Strains by Resolution of Protein Clusters
Authors: Black Michael , Moolhuijzen Paula , Chapman Brett , Barrero Roberto , Howieson John , Hungria Mariangela , Bellgard Matthew
Published: February 2012

The symbiotic relationship between legumes and nitrogen fixing bacteria is critical for agriculture, as it may have profound impacts on lowering costs for farmers, on land sustainability, on soil quality, and on mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions. However, despite the importance of the symbioses to the global nitrogen cycling balance, very few rhizobial genomes have been sequenced so far, although there are some ongoing efforts in sequencing elite strains. In this study, the genomes of fourteen selected strains of the order Rhizobiales, all previously fully sequenced and annotated, were compared to assess differences between the strains and to investigate the feasibility of defining a core ‘symbiome’—the essential genes required by all rhizobia for nodulation and nitrogen fixation. Comparison of these whole genomes has revealed valuable information, such as several events of lateral gene transfer, particularly in the symbiotic plasmids and genomic islands that have contributed to a better understanding of the evolution of contrasting symbioses. Unique genes were also identified, as well as omissions of symbiotic genes that were expected to be found. Protein comparisons have also allowed the identification of a variety of similarities and differences in several groups of genes, including those involved in nodulation, nitrogen fixation, production of exopolysaccharides, Type I to Type VI secretion systems, among others, and identifying some key genes that could be related to host specificity and/or a better saprophytic ability. However, while several significant differences in the type and number of proteins were observed, the evidence presented suggests no simple core symbiome exists. A more abstract systems biology concept of nitrogen fixing symbiosis may be required. The results have also highlighted that comparative genomics represents a valuable tool for capturing specificities and generalities of each genome.
cDNA Cloning, Overexpression, Purification and Pharmacologic Evaluation for Anticancer Activity of Ribosomal Protein L23A Gene (RPL23A) from the Giant Panda
Authors: Sun Bing , Hou Yi-Ling , Hou Wan-Ru , Zhang Si-Nan , Ding Xiang , Su Xiu-Lan
Published: February 2012

RPL23A gene encodes a ribosomal protein that is a component of the 60S subunit. The protein belongs to the L23P family of ribosomal proteins, which is located in the cytoplasm. The purpose of this paper was to explore the structure and anti-cancer function of ribosomal protein L23A (RPL23A) gene of the Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). The cDNA of RPL23A was cloned successfully from the Giant Panda using RT-PCR technology. We constructed a recombinant expression vector containing RPL23A cDNA and over-expressed it in Escherichia coli using pET28a plasmids. The expression product obtained was purified by using Ni chelating affinity chromatography. Recombinant protein of RPL23A obtained from the experiment acted on Hep-2 cells and human HepG-2 cells, then the growth inhibitory effect of these cells was observed by MTT (3-[4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl]-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) assay. The result indicated that the length of the fragment cloned is 506 bp, and it contains an open-reading frame (ORF) of 471 bp encoding 156 amino acids. Primary structure analysis revealed that the molecular weight of the putative RPL23A protein is 17.719 kDa with a theoretical pI 11.16. The molecular weight of the recombinant protein RPL23A is 21.265 kDa with a theoretical pI 10.57. The RPL23A gene can be really expressed in E. coli and the RPL23A protein, fusioned with the N-terminally His-tagged protein, gave rise to the accumulation of an expected 22 KDa polypeptide. The data showed that the recombinant protein RPL23A had a time- and dose-dependency on the cell growth inhibition rate. The data also indicated that the effect at low concentrations was better than at high concentrations on Hep-2 cells, and that the concentration of 0.185 μg/mL had the best rate of growth inhibition of 36.31%. All results of the experiment revealed that the recombinant protein RPL23A exhibited anti-cancer function on the Hep-2 cells. The study provides a scientific basis and aids orientation for the research and development of cancer protein drugs as well as possible anti-cancer mechanisms. Further research is on going to determine the bioactive principle(s) of recombinant protein RPL23A responsible for its anticancer activity.
Benzyl and Methyl Fatty Hydroxamic Acids Based on Palm Kernel Oil as Chelating Agent for Liquid-Liquid Iron(III) Extraction
Authors: Haron Md Jelas , Jahangirian Hossein , Silong Sidik , Yusof Nor Azah , Kassim Anuar , Rafiee-Moghaddam Roshanak , Mahdavi Behnam , Peyda Mazyar , Abdollahi Yadollah , Amin Jamileh
Published: February 2012

Liquid-liquid iron(III) extraction was investigated using benzyl fatty hydroxamic acids (BFHAs) and methyl fatty hydroxamic acids (MFHAs) as chelating agents through the formation of iron(III) methyl fatty hydroxamate (Fe-MFHs) or iron(III) benzyl fatty hydroxamate (Fe-BFHs) in the organic phase. The results obtained under optimized conditions, showed that the chelating agents in hexane extract iron(III) at pH 1.9 were realized effectively with a high percentage of extraction (97.2% and 98.1% for MFHAs and BFHAs, respectively). The presence of a large amount of Mg(II), Ni(II), Al(III), Mn(II) and Co(II) ions did affect the iron(III) extraction. Finally stripping studies for recovering iron(III) from organic phase (Fe-MFHs or Fe-BFHs dissolved in hexane) were carried out at various concentrations of HCl, HNO3 and H2SO4. The results showed that the desired acid for recovery of iron(III) was 5 M HCl and quantitative recovery of iron(III) was achieved from Fe(III)-MFHs and Fe(III)-BFHs solutions in hexane containing 5 mg/L of Fe(III).
Synthesis and Properties of Poly(Isothianaphthene Methine)s with Chiral Alkyl Chain
Authors: Innami Yu , Kawashima Hirotsugu , Kiebooms Rafaël H. L. , Aizawa Hideaki , Matsuishi Kiyoto , Goto Hiromasa
Published: February 2012

We synthesized poly(isothianaphthene methine)s with chiral alkyl chains in the substituent. Resultant polymers are soluble in THF and CHCl3. Structure of the polymers was characterized with FT-IR, FT-Raman, and UV-Vis-NIR optical absorption spectroscopy. They showed low-bandgap both in solution and in a form of film. Optical activity of the polymers was confirmed with optical rotatory dispersion. Doping effects on the polymer were also examined with UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy and ESR measurement.
Steroids from the Soft Coral Sinularia crassa
Authors: Chao Chih-Hua , Chou Kuei-Ju , Huang Chiung-Yao , Wen Zhi-Hong , Hsu Chi-Hsin , Wu Yang-Chang , Dai Chang-Feng , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: February 2012

One new sterol, crassarosterol A (1), and four new steroidal glycosides, crassarosterosides A–D (2–5) were isolated from the Formosan soft coral Sinularia crassa. The absolute configuration of 1 was determined using the Mosher’s method. The absolute configurations for the sugar moieties of 2–5 were determined by HPLC analysis on the o-tolylthiocarbamates derived from the liberated sugar after acid hydrolysis. Compounds 2 and 4 could significantly inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory iNOS protein at 10 µM. In contrast, 1–3 were found to stimulate the expression of COX-2 protein at this concentration. Steroids 1 and 4 also showed cytotoxicity toward the selected human liver cancer cells.
Anti-Melanogenic Property of Geoditin A in Murine B16 Melanoma Cells
Authors: Cheung Florence W. K. , Guo Jia , Ling Yick-Hin , Che Chun-Tao , Liu Wing-Keung
Published: February 2012

Geoditin A, an isomalabaricane triterpene isolated from marine sponge Geodia japonica, has been demonstrated to induce apoptosis in leukemia HL60 cells and human colon HT29 cancer cells through an oxidative stress, a process also interfering with normal melanogenesis in pigment cells. Treatment of murine melanoma B16 cells with geoditin A decreased expression of melanogenic proteins and cell melanogenesis which was aggravated with adenylate cyclase inhibitor SQ22536, indicating melanogenic inhibition was mediated through a cAMP-dependent signaling pathway. Immunofluorescence microscopy and glycosylation studies revealed abnormal glycosylation patterns of melanogenic proteins (tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein 1), and a co-localization of tyrosinase with calnexin (CNX) and lysosome-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP-1), implicating a post-translational modification in the ER and a degradation of tyrosinase in the lysosome. Taken together, potent anti-melanogenic property and the relatively low cytotoxicity of geoditin A have demonstrated its therapeutic potential as a skin lightening agent.
Probiotic Ferulic Acid Esterase Active Lactobacillus fermentum NCIMB 5221 APA Microcapsules for Oral Delivery: Preparation and in Vitro Characterization
Authors: Tomaro-Duchesneau Catherine , Saha Shyamali , Malhotra Meenakshi , Coussa-Charley Michael , Kahouli Imen , Jones Mitchell L. , Labbé Alain , Prakash Satya
Published: February 2012

Probiotics possess potential therapeutic and preventative effects for various diseases and metabolic disorders. One important limitation for the oral delivery of probiotics is the harsh conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT) which challenge bacterial viability and activity. One proposed method to surpass this obstacle is the use of microencapsulation to improve the delivery of bacterial cells to the lower GIT. The aim of this study is to use alginate-poly-L-lysine-alginate (APA) microcapsules to encapsulate Lactobacillus fermentum NCIMB 5221 and characterize its enzymatic activity and viability through a simulated GIT. This specific strain, in previous research, was characterized for its inherent ferulic acid esterase (FAE) activity which could prove beneficial in the development of a therapeutic for the treatment and prevention of cancers and metabolic disorders. Our findings demonstrate that the APA microcapsule does not slow the mass transfer of substrate into and that of the FA product out of the microcapsule, while also not impairing bacterial cell viability. The use of simulated gastrointestinal conditions led to a significant 2.5 log difference in viability between the free (1.10 × 104 ± 1.00 × 103 cfu/mL) and the microencapsulated (5.50 × 106 ± 1.00 × 105 cfu/mL) L. fermentum NCIMB 5221 following exposure. The work presented here suggests that APA microencapsulation can be used as an effective oral delivery method for L. fermentum NCIMB 5221, a FAE-active probiotic strain.
Preparation and Characterization of Amino Acids-Based Trimethoprim Salts
Authors: ElShaer Amr , Hanson Peter , Worthington Tony , Lambert Peter , Mohammed Afzal R.
Published: February 2012

Trimethoprim (TMP) is a dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) inhibitor which prevents the conversion of dihydrofolic acid into tetrahydrofolic acid, resulting in the depletion of the latter and leading to bacterial death. Oral bioavailability of TMP is hindered by both its low solubility and low permeability. This study aims to prepare novel salts of TMP using anionic amino acids; aspartic and glutamic acid as counter ions in order to improve solubility and dissolution. TMP salts were prepared by lyophilisation and characterized using FT-IR spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Both the amino acids formed salts with TMP in a 1:1 molar ratio and showed a 280 fold improvement in solubility. Investigation of the microbiological activity of the prepared salts against TMP sensitive Escherichia coli showed that the new salts not only retained antibacterial activity but also exhibited higher zone of inhibition which was attributed to improved physicochemical characters such as higher solubility and dissolution. The results are an important finding that could potentially impact on faster onset of antibacterial activity and reduced therapeutic dose when administered to patients. Studies are underway investigating the effect of ion-pairing TMP with amino acids on the permeability profile of the drug.
Versatile Route to Synthesize Heterobifunctional Poly(ethylene glycol) of Variable Functionality for Subsequent Pegylation
Authors: Mahou Redouan , Wandrey Christine
Published: February 2012

Pegylation using heterotelechelic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) offers many possibilities to create high-performance molecules and materials. A versatile route is proposed to synthesize heterobifunctional PEG containing diverse combinations of azide, amine, thioacetate, thiol, pyridyl disulﬁde, as well as activated hydroxyl end groups. Asymmetric activation of one hydroxyl end group enables the heterobifunctionalization while applying selective monotosylation of linear, symmetrical PEG as a key step. The azide function is introduced by reacting monotosyl PEG with sodium azide. A thiol end group is obtained by reaction with sodium hydrosulfide. The activation of the hydroxyl end group and subsequent reaction with potassium carbonate/thioacetic acid yields a thioacetate end group. The hydrolysis of the thioester end group by ammonia in presence of 2,2′-dipyridyl disulfide provides PEG pyridyl disulﬁde. Amine terminated PEG is prepared either by reduction of the azide or by nucleophilic substitution of mesylate terminated PEG using ammonia. In all cases, >95% functionalization of the PEG end groups is achieved. The PEG derivatives particularly support the development of materials for biomedical applications. For example, grafting up to 13% of the Na-alg monomer units with α-amine-ω-thiol PEG maintains the gelling capacity in presence of calcium ions but simultaneous, spontaneous disulfide bond formation reinforces the initial physical hydrogel.
Reinforced Materials Based on Chitosan, TiO2 and Ag Composites
Authors: Amin Khairul Anuar Mat , Panhuis Marc in het
Published: February 2012

This study investigates the mechanical reinforcement of chitosan with TiO2 and Ag nanoparticles, as well as their water vapour transmission rates and water resistance behaviour. The mechanical properties of chitosan were improved by addition of TiO2 or Ag, with significant increases in Young’s modulus (from 25 MPa to ~300 MPa), tensile strength (from 6 MPa to 18–35 MPa) and toughness (from 1.3 J g−1 to 7–8 J g−1). The water vapour transmission rates (368–413 g m−2 d−1) were found to be similar for both materials. Inclusion of Ag reduced the water resistance (from 823% to 1,000%), while inclusion of TiO2 yielded significant improvement in water resistance (from 823% to 100%).
Parallel- and serial-contact electrochemical metallization of monolayer nanopatterns: A versatile synthetic tool en route to bottom-up assembly of electric nanocircuits
Authors: Berson Jonathan , Zeira Assaf , Maoz Rivka , Sagiv Jacob
Published: February 2012

Contact electrochemical transfer of silver from a metal-film stamp (parallel process) or a metal-coated scanning probe (serial process) is demonstrated to allow site-selective metallization of monolayer template patterns of any desired shape and size created by constructive nanolithography. The precise nanoscale control of metal delivery to predefined surface sites, achieved as a result of the selective affinity of the monolayer template for electrochemically generated metal ions, provides a versatile synthetic tool en route to the bottom-up assembly of electric nanocircuits. These findings offer direct experimental support to the view that, in electrochemical metal deposition, charge is carried across the electrode–solution interface by ion migration to the electrode rather than by electron transfer to hydrated ions in solution.