bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FIN 48 and Tax Compliance
Authors: Mills Lillian F. , Robinson Leslie A. , Sansing Richard C.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: We develop a model to examine the effects of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (FIN 48), on the strategic interaction between publicly traded corporate taxpayers and the government. Several of our findings contradict conjectures voiced by members of the business community regarding the economic effects of implementing FIN 48. Specifically, taxpayers with strong facts obtain higher expected payoffs from uncertain tax benefits and some disclosed liabilities understate the expected tax liability. Consistent with the common conjectures, however, some taxpayers are more likely to be audited or are deterred from entering into transactions that generate uncertain tax benefits because of FIN 48.
The Effects of a Supervisor’s Active Intervention in Subordinates’ Judgments, Directional Goals, and Perceived Technical Knowledge Advantage on Audit Team Judgments
Authors: Peecher Mark E. , Piercey M. David , Rich Jay S. , Tubbs Richard M.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Prior research shows that an audit supervisor’s active intervention in a subordinate’s judgment distorts that judgment. However, subordinates’ judgments are only one input into audit team judgments. How do supervisors finalize audit team judgments after actively intervening in their subordinates’ judgments? In an experiment using audit teams, supervisors with weaker or stronger goals to reach a client-preferred conclusion either were or were not asked to first actively coach a subordinate’s judgment (i.e., active intervention) before reviewing it and finalizing the audit team’s judgment. Supervisors’ intervention influenced subordinates’ inputs, which, in turn, supervisors incorporated into their final judgments. More interestingly, intervention biased supervisors’ final judgments, controlling for supervisor directional goal strength and for concurrent effects on subordinates’ inputs. However, supervisors distorted their judgments less as they perceived a larger technical knowledge advantage over subordinates. In a second experiment, auditors appear aware of the bias-reducing knowledge advantage effects but unaware of the bias-increasing active intervention effects. We discuss implications for audit team judgments and audit quality control.
Biochemical and agro-biological diversity of Viburnum opulus genotypes
Authors: Česonienė Laima , Daubaras Remigijus , Venclovienė Jonė , Viškelis Pranas
Published: August 2010

Interest in the biochemical composition of Viburnum opulus fruit has intensified due to the food industry’s demand for natural vitamins, pigments and other substances that enhance the value of different foods. The present study was conducted to determine the agro-biological and biochemical variability of V. opulus and to select the genotypes that could best serve as sources of health promoting substances. Twelve selected genotypes were evaluated. ‘Leningradskaya Otbornaya’, V. opulus var. americanum, ‘Zarnitsa’, and local clone P2 were determined to be the best genotypes for growth in commercial plantations. Fruits of the local clone P3 were characterised by large amounts of total phenolics, ascorbic acid, and reducing sugars. V. opulus var. sargentii and V. opulus var. americanum contained exceptionally large amounts of total phenolics, 1460.0 and 1400.0 mg/100 g, respectively. The amount of ascorbic acid varied from 12.4 to 41.4 mg/100 g, the amount of carotenoids varied from 1.4 to 2.8 mg/100 g, the amount of anthocyanins varied from 23.2 to 44.6 mg/100 g, and the amount of total phenolics varied from 753.0 to 1460.0 mg/100 g. The presence of these large amounts of biologically active compounds enables their use as potent antioxidants. The data describing agro-biological characteristics, biochemical components, and health promoting activities of V. opulus fruits will increase the understanding of this plant and facilitate its use in the food and pharmaceuticals industry.
Investigating the effects of laser beams (532 nm and 660 nm) in annihilation of pistachio mould fungus using spectrophotometry analysis
Authors: Saghafi Saiedeh , Penjweini Rozhin , Becker Klaus , Kratky Karl W. , Dodt Hans-Ulrich
Published: August 2010

When moulds are illuminated by visible electromagnetic-EM radiations, several effects on nucleus materials and nucleotides can be detected. These effects have a significant influence on mould generation or destruction. This paper presents the effects and implications of a red diode laser beam (660 nm), a second-harmonics of a Nd:YAG laser emitting green beam (532 nm), or the combination of both, on the eradication of Pistachio mould fungus. Incident doses (ID) of both beams are kept identical throughout the experiment. The absorption spectrums of irradiated mouldy samples and the bright-greenish-yellow-fluorescence (BGYF) of fungus occurring in mould texture due to electronic excitation are investigated. We found that a combination of a green and a red laser beam with an ID of 0.5 J/cm2 provides the optimal effects on Pistachio mould fungus eradication.
Isolation of Plasma Proteins from Bovine Blood by Cold Ethanol Precipitation and Anion Exchange Chromatography
Authors: Ekwumemgbo Patricia Adamma , Kagbu James Adagadzu , Nok Andrew Jonathan , Omoniyi Israel Kehinde , Ameh Paul Ocheme , Oladunni Nathaniel
Published: August 2010

Plasma (100.00 ml) obtained from bovine blood by centrifugation was fractionatedinto seven precipitates by cold ethanol precipitation. The yield (amount) of proteins in theprecipitates calculated from the standard curve of BSA was 1160.83 mg, 806.57 mg,1149.94 mg, 8.79 mg, 19.88 mg, 21.98 mg, and 13.97 mg respectively, while the totalamount of protein obtained was 3180.00 mg. The precipitates were fractionated into 25fractions each by Anion Exchange Chromatography (AEC) and the amount of protein ineach fraction was obtained by Bradford protein assay. SDS-PAGE analysis was performedon the fractions with proteins and their estimated molecular weights were obtained with theaid of the molecular weight marker. The result indicated that cold ethanol precipitation andanion exchange chromatographic techniques are valuable tools for the purification ofbovine blood to obtain high grade α, β and γ-fibrinogen, IgM (μ-globulin), IgG (γ -globulin),alpha (α –globulin), β-globulin (E-globulin) and albumin.Keywords: Plasma; Chromatography; Electrophoresis; Albumin; Fibrinogen; GlobulinDOI: 10.3126/jncs.v26i0.3624Journal of Nepal Chemical SocietyVol. 26, 2010Page: 2-12
Removal of Lead from Aqueous Medium Using Xanthate Modified Apple Juice Residue
Authors: Bashyal Deepak , Homagai Puspa Lal , Ghimire Kedar Nath
Published: August 2010

This study investigated the feasibility of chemically modified apple juice residue as anovel type of adsorbent for lead removal from aqueous medium. FTIR studies were carriedout to understand the type of functional groups in unmodified and modified apple juiceresidue responsible for metal binding process. Equilibrium adsorption data were fitted interms of monolayer adsorption at pH 4 by batch method. The kinetics was studied forbiosorption processes and data were described by pseudo second order model. Theequilibrium constant and Gibbs free energy of the adsorption at 25°C were determined. Themechanism of sorption was found to obey the ion exchange and complexation method.Keywords: Heavy metal; Biosorption; Xanthate; Iion exchange; ComplexationDOI: 10.3126/jncs.v26i0.3632Journal of Nepal Chemical SocietyVol. 26, 2010Page: 53-60
Pratiques de littératie à l'école. Pour une approche ethnographique de la classe en deuxième année d'immersion en Colombie-Britannique
Authors: Moore Danièle , Sabatier Cécile
Published: August 2010

Résumé

À partir d'un corpus recueilli dans trois classes de deuxième année de l'école primaire en immersion française en Colombie-Britannique, l'article explore le concept de littératie(s) dans son articulation avec les notions de contexte et de culture éducative, et présente la méthodologie et les classes observées selon une perspective ethnographique. L'analyse des données insiste sur les pratiques de littératie dans les classes pour, dans sa conclusion, poser les jalons d'une réflexion qui envisage la question de l'agir professionnel et de la formation des enseignants. Cette étude met ainsi l'emphase sur le travail pédagogique des enseignants, en proposant une description minutieuse de l'éventail des pratiques de littératie qui font le quotidien des élèves et de leurs enseignants.
Predicting Protein-protein Interaction Using Amino Acid Sequence Information: A Computational Approach
Authors: Shoyaib Mohammad , Abdullah-Al-Wadud M. , Baker Syed Murtuza , Islam Mohammad Nurul , Chae Oksam
Published: August 2010

An improved computational approach which implements a protein-protein interaction prediction system based on the sequence information of a protein has been presented. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) is trained with this sequence information to predict the interactions. This interaction prediction technique exhibits 79.81% accuracy over a wide range of data, which is a significant improvement over other conventional computational protein-protein interaction prediction methods. Key words: Protein-protein interaction, Amino acid sequence, Computational approach D.O.I. 10.3329/ptcb.v20i1.5963 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 20(1): 37-45, 2010 (June)
The Role of Drought Stress on Anther Culture of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Islam S. M. Shahinul
Published: August 2010

Drought stress was found to pose a significant effect on anther culture of wheat, namely Barkat, Kanchan and Pavon-76. Regeneration potentials of these varieties were determined by estimating the percentage of anther response, embryo induction, embryo regeneration and production of green and albino plants. It was observed that out of five treatments such as T1 (1 hr), T2 (3 hr), T3 (5 hr), T4 (7 hr) and T5 (9 hr) only T2 showed highest percentage of embryo yield and green plantlets. The T1 and T3 also gave significantly better results compared to the control. All the genotypes produced embryos and green plantlets and of them Barkat showed best performance followed by Kanchan and Pavon 76. Genotypes, under this study, produced green plants in addition to albinos but T4 and T5 showed three - fourfold higher albino plant production in comparison to treatments.  Key words: Anther culture, Drought stress, Haploids, Triticum aestivum D.O.I. 10.3329/ptcb.v20i1.5965 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 20(1): 55-61, 2010 (June)
In vitro Propagation of Polygonum hydropiper L. from Shoot Tips
Authors: Hasan M. F. , Sikdar B.
Published: August 2010

An efficient protocol for plant regeneration through multiple shoots induction from shoot tips of Polygonum hydropiper (L.) was established. The highest percentage (96.6) of multiple shoot induction and number of shoots (9.0) per culture were found on MS supplemented with 2.0 mg/l Kn. The induced shoots were excised and inoculated on to MS contains different concentrations of IBA or NAA for rooting. The highest percentage (90.0) of root induction and the highest number of roots per shoot (12.0) was found on MS having 1.0 mg/l IBA. Well rooted plantlets were acclimated properly and transplanted in the soil under natural condition, where cent per cent plantlets survived and grew successfully. Key words:  Polygonum hydropiper, Shoot tips, In vitro propagation D.O.I. 10.3329/ptcb.v20i1.5970 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 20(1): 73-79, 2010 (June)
Molecular Characterization of 12 Mango Germplasm Using RAPD markers
Authors: Jena R. C. , Samal K. C. , Chand P. K. , Das B. K.
Published: August 2010

Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used for the genetic variation and relationship analysis among 12 Mango (Mangifera indica L.) germplasm. Five oligonucleotide primers were employed to amplify DNA from 12 cultivars. PCR amplification with five primers generated 45 reproducible, clear and distinct bands, out of which 41 bands are considered polymorphic and the remaining four fragments (8.88%)  monomorphic. The size of amplified product ranged from 200 (RPI-5) to 3000 base pairs (RPI-1) with an average of nine bands per primer. The average polymorphism in all the 12 cultivars using the five primers was found to be 91.91%. Among all the primers RPI-2 and RPI-4 have shown 100% polymorphism while RPI-5 was found to be least polymorphism (81.81%). One specific band, namely was found with RPI-5, in a particular variety, Chiratpuri. The UPGMA (Unweighted Pair Group Method of Arithmetic Mean) dendrogram based on Jaccard’s similarity coefficient segregated the 12 mango germplasm into two clusters. Langra, Chiratpuri, Pravasankar, Alphanso, Sindhu and Kesar formed one cluster and rest six mango germplasm grouped together into another cluster. Sindhu and Alphanso cultivar pair was very close to each other with highest similarity coefficient (0.78), which was comparatively higher than all other cultivar pairs. On the other hand, Pravasankar and Neelam cultivar pair was more distinct to each other with the lowest intervarietal similarity coefficient 0.38. This study showed clearly that cultivars from Orissa unveiled maximum diversity and indicated the potential of RAPD markers for the identification of management of mango germplasm for breeding purposes.  Key words: Molecular characterization, Mango germplasm, Dversity  D.O.I. 10.3329/ptcb.v20i1.5972 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 20(1): 91-99, 2010 (June)
Liver Fibrosis Changes in HIV–HBV-Coinfected Patients: Clinical, Biochemical and Histological Effect of Long-Term Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Use
Authors: Boyd Anders , Lasnier Elisabeth , Molina Jean Michel , Lascoux-Combe Caroline , Bonnard Philippe , Miailhes Patrick , Wendum Dominique , Meynard Jean-Luc , Girard Pierre-Marie , Lacombe Karine
Published: August 2010

Background

Data on liver fibrosis evolution in HIV–HBV-coinfected patients treated with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) are scarce. The effect of TDF on liver fibrosis in 148 HIV–HBV-coinfected patients was prospectively evaluated using Fibrometer® scores and liver biopsies in a subset of patients.

Methods

The mean change from baseline (Δ) in Fibrometer score was modelled using a generalized estimating equation. Homogeneous continuous-time Markov models were used to study risk factors for regression or progression of liver fibrosis.

Results

Median follow-up of patients treated with TDF was 29.5 months (25th–75th percentile 20.9–38.1). The distribution of scored fibrosis at TDF initiation was F0–F1 n=65, F2 n=37 and F3–F4 n=46. In patients with a baseline fibrosis score of F3–F4, Fibrometer score decreased with a triphasic shape (Fibrometer Δ at 12, 24 and 36 months after TDF initiation was -0.079, -0.069 and -0.102, respectively). Despite duration on TDF, higher fibrosis scores were noted in F3–F4 patients with high HBV viral load and HDV coinfection, and in F0–F2 patients who had high HBV viral load and low CD4+ T-cell count. Progression in fibrosis score over time was influenced by age, alcohol consumption, low CD4+ T-cell count and HCV coinfection, whereas HDV coinfection and longer duration of HBV infection prevented fibrosis regression. No influence of antiretrovirals other than TDF was found.

Conclusions

The use of TDF in HIV–HBV-coinfected patients led to a decrease in liver fibrosis score in patients with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis. Sustainability of its direct antiviral and indirect antifibrotic effects on the liver need to be studied further.
Bone Tumors of the Clavicle: Risk of Malignancy in the Elderly and Safe Needle Biopsy
Authors: Basarir Kerem , Polat Onur , Saglik Yener , Yildiz Yusuf
Published: August 2010

The clavicle is a rare site for bone tumors and little is known from the limited literature about the prognostic factors and management techniques, including biopsy. The method of biopsy is controversial in the clavicle because of the risk of injury to the neighboring neurovascular structures. Twenty patients with clavicular lesions were retrospectively reviewed with clinical, radiological, and histopathological reports. A needle biopsy was planned in the presence of an osteolytic lesion providing nonforceful entry of the needle, detailed knowledge obtained about the local anatomy, and known availability of an oblique angle for the needle entry away from vascular structures. A needle or tru-cut biopsy was performed for preoperative histopathological diagnosis in 6 selected patients with no complications. Considering the histological diagnosis and prevalence of clavicular bone tumors, benign and malignant lesions had a similar prevalence rate; however, malignant tumors occurred in an older (>50 years) population (P=005). Statistical analysis revealed that the best cutoff point for age for discriminating malignant lesions was 50 years with high sensitivity. The main concern for these patients is primary lesion site treatment and symptom palliation. Every clavicular lesion in patients older than 50 years should be considered as malignant unless proven otherwise. This article demonstrates that needle biopsy can be performed safely in selected lesions with particular attention to cross-sectional local anatomy during needle insertion.
Dynamic Compression Plate and Cancellous Bone Graft for Aseptic Nonunion After Intramedullary Nailing of Femoral Fracture
Authors: Chen Chuan-Mu , Su Yu-Pin , Hung Shih-Hsin , Lin Che-Li , Chiu Fang-Yao
Published: August 2010

We evaluated the effect of revision with dynamic compression plate and cancellous bone graft for aseptic nonunion after intramedullary nailing of femoral shaft fracture.

Fifty patients with aseptic nonunion of femoral shaft fracture after intramedullary nailing were reviewed and analyzed retrospectively between 1996 and 2007. There were 40 men and 10 women with an average age of 44 years (range, 19–76 years). Thirty-five were diaphyseal fractures, 8 were distal fractures, and 7 were proximal fractures. Twenty-eight fractures were defined as atrophic nonunion, 13 fractures were hypertrophic nonunion, and 9 fractures could not be defined clearly. All fractures were managed by retaining previous implants, open reduction and internal fixation with dynamic compression plate, and supplementation by cancellous bone graft. The average follow-up period was 76 months (range, 24–128 months). Functional evaluations were done by Harris Hip score and Hospital for Special Surgery knee score.

All nonunions united on average at 24 weeks (range, 18–32 weeks). One superficial wound infection occurred. At follow-up, each patient was evaluated to have satisfactory function results, with near normal hip/knee functions without noticeable pain, and full return to preinjury activities/work without pain.

Augmentative dynamic compression plate with cancellous bone graft is a reliable and effective treatment for revision of aseptic nonunion of femoral shaft fracture after intramedullary nailing.
Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures: A Systematic Review of Management
Authors: Alpantaki Kalliopi , Bano Artan , Pasku Dritan , Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Papagelopoulos Panayiotis J. , Sapkas George S. , Korres Demetrios S. , Katonis Pavlos
Published: August 2010

The management of thoracolumbar burst fractures remains challenging. Ideally, it should effectively correct the deformity, induce neurological recovery, allow early mobilization and return to work, and be associated with minimal risk of complication. This article reviews the related studies reporting their clinical data for the management of thoracolumbar burst fractures, discusses the most suitable approach in cases such as these, highlights specific treatment recommendations, and proposes a treatment algorithm. Using PubMed and Scopus databases to search the term thoracolumbar burst fractures, abstracts and original articles in English investigating the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures were searched and analyzed.
The Case: Talocalcaneal Coalition
Authors: Varich Laura , Bancroft Laura
Published: August 2010

A 14-year-old boy presented with foot pain, which had increased over the past several months.
TCR Repertoire, Clonal Dominance, and Pulmonary Trafficking of Mycobacterium-Specific CD4+ and CD8+ T Effector Cells in Immunity Against Tuberculosis
Authors: Du George , Chen Crystal Y. , Shen Yun , Qiu Liyou , Huang Dan , Wang Richard , Chen Zheng W.
Published: August 2010

Clonal responses of Mycobacterium tuberculosis-specific CD4+ or CD8+ T effector cells producing antituberculosis cytokine IFN-γ in the context of immune protection against tuberculosis remain poorly characterized in humans. Utilizing decade-long TCR expertise, we previously developed a useful method to isolate clonotypic TCR sequences from Ag-specific IFN-γ–producing T cells and to specifically measure clonotypic TCR frequencies in the T cell pool. In this study, we investigated TCR Vβ repertoires/CDR3 usage, clonal expansion or dominance, and pulmonary trafficking or accumulation for purified protein deritative (PPD)-specific T effector cells producing IFN-γ during bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination and subsequent M. tuberculosis challenge of macaques. We found that while PPD-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T effector clones employed diverse TCR Vβ repertoires, 30–33% of IFN-γ+CD4+ T cell clones from three M. tuberculosis-infected macaques expressed TCR bearing a conserved residue leucine in CDR3. Many Ag-specific IFN-γ+ CD4+ and few CD8+ T effector cells emerged as dominant clones during mycobacterial infections and underwent major recall expansion after pulmonary M. tuberculosis infection of BCG-vaccinated macaques. PPD-specific T cell clones readily trafficked to the airway or lung after BCG vaccination or M. tuberculosis infection, and some of them continuously accumulated in lungs during M. tuberculosis infection even after they became undetectable in the circulation. Importantly, remarkable recall expansion and pulmonary accumulation of T effector cells coincided with BCG-induced protection against tuberculosis. Thus, rapid clonal expansion and pulmonary accumulation of Ag-specific T effector cells appear to be one of the immune mechanisms underlying immunity against tuberculosis.
The Roles of Several Residues of Escherichia coli DNA Photolyase in the Highly Efficient Photo‐Repair of Cyclobutane Pyrimidine Dimers
Authors: Xu Lei , Zhu Guoping
Published: August 2010

Escherichia coli DNA photolyase is an enzyme that repairs the major kind of UV‐induced lesions, cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) in DNA utilizing 350–450 nm light as energy source. The enzyme has very high photo‐repair efficiency (the quantum yield of the reaction is ~0.85), which is significantly greater than many model compounds that mimic photolyase. This suggests that some residues of the protein play important roles in the photo‐repair of CPD. In this paper, we have focused on several residues discussed their roles in catalysis by reviewing the existing literature and some hypotheses.
Mantle lithosphere structure beneath southeast Baffin Island, Nunavut from teleseismic studies
Authors: Snyder D B
Published: August 2010

Earthquakes recorded at the Canadian National Seismic Network station FRB at Iqaluit, Nunavut between 1993 and 2009 were analyzed using receiver-function and SKS-splitting techniques in order to determine seismic discontinuities and anisotropy beneath the
station. Discontinuities typically represent strong, localized changes in rock properties and therefore can indicate the presence of mul-tiple or dipping layers if these layers are regionally continuous. Both methods produce consistent results. Several stacked layers are interpreted to dip at
approximately 15° to the northeast beneath station FRB at depths between 50 km and 150 km. The layers are defined primarily by their anisotropic characteristics that typically represent different rock fabrics. Geochemical evidence from kimberlite xenocrysts located 125 km to the northeast
suggests that the layers are partly composed of harzburgite. Surface geological models suggest that the layers represent underthrusted or subducted parts of the Sugluk or Meta Incognita microcontinent blocks. A Moho depth of 43 km is estimated beneath station FRB.
Une minoration du minimum essentiel sur les variétés abéliennes
Authors: Galateau Aurélien
Published: August 2010

On étend à la codimension générale la minoration du minimum essentiel sur les variétés abéliennes obtenue dans [Gal08], sous une conjecture concernant leurs idéaux premiers ordinaires. Cette minoration est optimale “à ε près” en le degré de la sous-variété et rend inconditionnelle la démonstration, par Viada, de la conjecture de Zilber–Pink pour une courbe plongée dans une puissance de courbe elliptique.

We extend to the general codimension the lower bound for the essential minimum on abelian varieties found in [Gal08], under a conjecture about ordinary primes in abelian varieties. This lower bound is the best expected, “up to an ε”, in the degree of the subvariety and completes Viada’s proof of the Zilber–Pink conjecture for a curve embedded in a power of an elliptic curve.
A norm compatible system of Galois cohomology classes for $\mathrm{GSp}(4)$
Authors: Lemma Francesco
Published: August 2010

For a given de Rham

p

-adic Galois representation

M

, a conjecture of Perrin–Riou associates a

p

-adic

L

-function for

M

to a norm compatible system of Galois cohomology classes in the projective limit

\varprojlim {}_n \mathrm{H}^1(ℚ(ζ_{p^n}), M)

. We construct such a norm compatible system for the symplectic group

\mathrm{G}\overleftarrow{\mathrm{Sp}}_4

. Our classes are cup-products of torsion sections of the large elliptic polylogarithm pro-sheaf; we rely on its norm compatibility and on some computations of weights in the cohomology of Siegel threefolds of our previous work.
Evaluation of the Globo.com Portal Efficiency: A Case Study in Light of the Fuzzy Set Theory
Authors: Domech More Jesus , Fagundes Mattoso Luciana , Gonçalves Altaf Joyce , Bonorino Xexéo Geraldo
Published: August 2010

The emergence of Internet has revolutionized the way people communicate. However, due to the large number of websites available, web users usually feel lost and very often frustrated for not achieving their goals. This paper aims to develop a model which is capable of evaluating the level of flexibility and efficiency of the Globo.com portal, as one of the usability metrics considered by Nielsen. Forty one attributes were assessed based on the opinions of 10 developers and 8 users of the Globo.com portal. The fuzzy set theory was the tool used to address uncertainties. As a result, a Flexibility and Efficiency Index of the Portal was obtained and some changes are recommended to improve its use.
Electronic Governance Index of Brazilian States (2009): Within the Executive Branch
Authors: Ribeiro de Mello Gilmar , Slomski Valmor
Published: August 2010

This research aims to propose an index to measure and monitor the development of electronic governance in Brazilian States and the Federal District, specifically within the executive branch. Bibliographic research was used to construct the theoretical platform and identify electronic governance practice. The IGEB (Electronic Governance Index of Brazilian States) was proposed in view of subgroups of equally weighted practices and validated through structural equation modeling. Research data were collected from the websites of the States and the Federal District between February 18th and 28th 2009. The IGEB permitted verifying the percentage of practice the States and the Federal District had already put in practice, highlighting São Paulo with 71.40% of the suggested practices, and Mato Grosso do Sul with only 37.31%. It is concluded that, in general, the most developed states rank best, that is, they have implamented the highest number of electronic governance practices.
Parameterization for subgrid-scale motion of ice-shelf calving-fronts
Authors: Albrecht T. , Martin M. , Haseloff M. , Winkelmann R. , Levermann A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A parameterization for the motion of ice-shelf fronts on a Cartesian grid in finite-difference land-ice models is presented. The scheme prevents artificial thinning of the ice shelf at its edge, which occurs due to the finite resolution of the model. The intuitive numerical implementation diminishes numerical dispersion at the ice front and enables the application of physical boundary conditions to improve the calculation of stress and velocity fields throughout the ice-sheet-shelf system. Numerical properties of this subgrid modification are assessed in the Potsdam Parallel Ice Sheet Model (PISM-PIK) for different geometries in one and two horizontal dimensions and are verified against an analytical solution in a flow-line setup.
Detonation Nanodiamond and Onion‐Like‐Carbon‐Embedded Polyaniline for Supercapacitors
Authors: Kovalenko Igor , Bucknall David G. , Yushin Gleb
Published: August 2010

The detonation nanodiamond is a versatile low‐cost nanomaterial with tunable properties and surface chemistry. In this work, it is shown how the application of nanodiamond (ND) can greatly increase the performance of electrochemically active polymers, such as polyaniline (PANI). Symmetric supercapacitors containing PANI‐ND nanocomposite electrodes with 3–28 wt% ND show dramatically improved cycle stability and higher capacitance retention at fast sweep rate than pure PANI electrodes. Contrary to other PANI‐carbon nanocomposites, specific capacitance of the selected PANI electrodes with embedded ND increases after 10 000 galvanostatic cycles and reaches 640 F g−1, when measured in a symmetric two‐electrode configuration with 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte. The demonstrated specific capacitance is 3–4 times higher than that of the activated carbons and more than 15 times higher than that of ND and onion‐like carbon (OLC).
Single‐Crystalline Dodecahedral and Octodecahedralα‐Fe2O3 Particles Synthesized by a Fluoride Anion–Assisted Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Lv Baoliang , Liu Zhenyu , Tian Hong , Xu Yao , Wu Dong , Sun Yuhan
Published: August 2010

Despite significant advances in iron oxide nanoparticles, it is still a challenge to synthesize regular polyhedral single‐crystalline α‐Fe2O3 particles because the surface energies of several low‐index planes are fairly similar. In the work presented here, well‐dispersed and single‐crystalline dodecahedral and octodecahedral α‐Fe2O3 particles are synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method with the aid of F− anions. The crystalline structure of the polyhedral particles is disclosed by various characterization techniques. The dodecahedral particles are of hexagonal bipyramidal shape and enclosed by twelve equivalent (101) planes. The octodecahedral particles are formed by adding six equivalent (111) planes on the two tips of a dodecahedral particle, that is, they are enclosed by twelve (101) planes and six (111) planes. The existence of F− anions plays a crucial role in the control of polyhedral particle shape. The function of F− anions in the shape formation of the polyhedral particles is proposed as follows: 1) A high concentration of exposed Fe3+ cations induces preferential adsorption of F− anions on the (100) plane and leads to the slowest growth along the [100] direction. When the concentration of F− anions is higher than 24 mM, a stable speed ratio of growth along the [001] and [100] directions results in the exposure of (101) planes. 2) With a lower concentration of F− anions, six symmetrical (111) planes with low concentration of exposed Fe3+ cations are present at the tops of a dodecahedral particle to form an octodecahedron. Furthermore, the dodecahedral and octodecahedral α‐Fe2O3 particles show much stronger magnetism than the previously reported α‐Fe2O3 nanostructures, having coercivities of 4986 Oe and 6512 Oe, respectively. Such high coercivities are attributed to a large local magnetic anisotropy, which might be induced by the polyhedron with equivalent crystallographic planes and/or the presence of F− anions.
A General and Efficient Route to Fabricate Carbon Nanotube‐Metal Nanoparticles and Carbon Nanotube‐Inorganic Oxides Hybrids
Authors: Li Haiqing , Jo Jung Kyu , Zhang Lidong , Ha Chang‐Sik , Suh Hongsuk , Kim Il
Published: August 2010

Novel pyrenyl‐moieties‐decorated hyperbranched polyglycidol (pHBP) is synthesized and utilized for the functionalization of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via a non‐covalent (non‐destructive) process. Mediated by a pHBP layer on the CNT sidewall, Au, Ag and Pt nanoparticles and uniform SiO2, GeO2 and TiO2 coatings are generated in situ and deposited onto the as‐prepared CNT/pHBP hybrids, forming versatile homogeneous CNT‐based nanohybrid sols. The coverage of metal nanoparticles and oxide coatings is controllable simply by changing the employed amount of precursors. This easy synthetic strategy provides a general and convenient route to efficiently assemble a wide range of metal nanoparticles and inorganic oxide components on the sidewalls of CNTs, and enables the construction of heterogeneous nanostructures with novel functionalities. As a means of demonstrating the versatility of the fabricated hybrid materials, the catalytic function of CNT/pHBP/Pt hybrids towards the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol and the incorporation of dye molecules into the CNT/pHBP/SiO2 matrix resulting in fluorescent nanofibers are investigated.
Layered LaSrGa3O7‐Based Oxide‐Ion Conductors: Cooperative Transport Mechanisms and Flexible Structures
Authors: Tealdi Cristina , Mustarelli Piercarlo , Islam M. Saiful
Published: August 2010

Novel melilite‐type gallium‐oxides are attracting attention as promising new oxide‐ion conductors with potential use in clean energy devices such as solid oxide fuel cells. Here, an atomic‐scale investigation of the LaSrGa3O7‐based system using advanced simulation techniques provides valuable insights into the defect chemistry and oxide ion conduction mechanisms, and includes comparison with the available experimental data. The simulation model reproduces the observed complex structure composed of layers of corner‐sharing GaO4 tetrahedra. A major finding is the first indication that oxide‐ion conduction in La1.54Sr0.46Ga3O7.27 occurs through an interstitialcy or cooperative‐type mechanism involving the concerted knock‐on motion of interstitial and lattice oxide ions. A key feature for the transport mechanism and high ionic conductivity is the intrinsic flexibility of the structure, which allows considerable local relaxation and changes in Ga coordination.
Poly[oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate] Brush Substrate for Sensitive Surface Plasmon Resonance Imaging Protein Arrays
Authors: Hu Weihua , Liu Yingshuai , Lu Zhisong , Li Chang Ming
Published: August 2010

Surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) is a unique microarray method for label‐free and multiplexed bio‐assays. However, it currently cannot be used to detect human serum samples due to its low sensitivity and poor specificity. A poly[oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate] (POEGMA‐co‐GMA) brush was synthesized by surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI‐ATRP) and used as a unique supporting matrix for SPRi arrays to efficiently load probe proteins for high sensitivity while reducing nonspecific adsorptions for good selectivity. Results indicate that the polymer brush has a high protein loading capacity (1.8 protein monolayers), low non‐specific protein adsorption (below the SPR detection limit), and high immobilization stability. Three model biomarkers, α‐fetoprotein, carcinoembryonic antigen, and hepatitis B surface antigen were simultaneously detected in human serum samples by a SPRi chip for the first time, showing detection limits of 50, 20, and 100 ng mL−1, respectively. This work demonstrates great potential for a SPRi biochip as a powerful label‐free and high‐throughput detection tool in clinical diagnosis and biological research. Since the SPR detection is limited by the sensing film thickness, this approach particularly offers a unique way to significantly improve the sensitivity in the SPR detecting thickness range.
Biomimetic Nanopatterns as Enabling Tools for Analysis and Control of Live Cells
Authors: Kim Deok‐Ho , Lee Hyojin , Lee Young Kwang , Nam Jwa‐Min , Levchenko Andre
Published: August 2010

It is becoming increasingly evident that cell biology research can be considerably advanced through the use of bioengineered tools enabled by nanoscale technologies. Recent advances in nanopatterning techniques pave the way for engineering biomaterial surfaces that control cellular interactions from the nano‐ to the microscale, allowing more precise quantitative experimentation capturing multi‐scale aspects of complex tissue physiology in vitro. The spatially and temporally controlled display of extracellular signaling cues on nanopatterned surfaces (e. g., cues in the form of chemical ligands, controlled stiffness, texture, etc.) that can now be achieved on biologically relevant length scales is particularly attractive enabling experimental platform for investigating fundamental mechanisms of adhesion‐mediated cell signaling. Here, we present an overview of bio‐nanopatterning methods, with the particular focus on the recent advances on the use of nanofabrication techniques as enabling tools for studying the effects of cell adhesion and signaling on cell function. We also highlight the impact of nanoscale engineering in controlling cell‐material interfaces, which can have profound implications for future development of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Effect of the hard‐segment structure on the dielectric relaxation of crosslinked polyurethanes
Authors: Oprea Stefan
Published: August 2010

Two series of crosslinked polyurethanes based on poly(tetramethylene ether) glycol soft segments and hexamethylene diisocyanate/1,4‐butane diol and glycerin or castor oil as a hard segments were synthesized, and their dielectric properties were examined. We examined the influence of the structural heterogeneity of the copolymers (as a function of the quantity and structure of the hard segments and crosslinking density, as measured by comonomer composition), frequency, and temperature as experimental variables by observing changes in the dielectric behavior. Two relaxation peaks were observed in the temperature range of −30 to 40°C for polyurethanes with various hard‐segment contents. The dangling chains of the castor oil presented a plasticizing effect that was exerted during the relaxation processes, an effect that was studied. It was found that both the amount and the structure of the hard segment strongly affected the dielectric behavior. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Effect of fluvastatin, lovastatin, nifedipine and verapamil on the systemic exposure of nateglinide in rabbits
Authors: Kim Youngmin , Park Kyemyung , Kang Wonku
Published: August 2010

A diabetic patient may suffer simultaneously from cardiovascular disease; thus, lipid‐lowering or anti‐hypertensive agents could be given together with nateglinide. The pharmacokinetics of nateglinide were investigated in the presence and absence of HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors (fluvastatin, lovastatin) and calcium channel blockers (verapamil, nifedipine) in rabbits. A pharmacokinetic modeling approach was used to quantify the effects of the drugs that significantly influenced the pharmacokinetics of nateglinide. Fluvastatin and nifedipine shifted the time course of serum nateglinide concentrations upwards; there was no significant change with verapamil or lovastatin. TheCmaxandAUCinfincreased 1.5‐ (p<0.05) and 1.3‐fold in the presence of fluvastatin and 1.8‐ (p<0.01) and 2.4‐fold (p<0.01) in the presence of nifedipine, respectively. In a simultaneous nonlinear regression, fluvastatin and nifedipine decreased the elimination rate constant, by 76% and 32%, respectively. Fluvastatin and nifedipine increased the systemic exposure of nateglinide in rabbits, probably due to their inhibitory action on the metabolism of nateglinide by CYP2C5 (human CYP2C9). The concomitant use of fluvastatin and/or nifedipine with nateglinide is quite likely; therefore, the clinical consequences of long‐term treatments must be considered. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extremely low‐frequency electromagnetic fields affect the immune response of monocyte‐derived macrophages to pathogens
Authors: Akan Zafer , Aksu Burak , Tulunay Aysin , Bilsel Serpil , Inhan‐Garip Ayse
Published: August 2010

This study aimed to determine the effect of extremely low‐frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF‐EMF) on the physiological response of phagocytes to an infectious agent. THP‐1 cells (human monocytic leukemia cell line) were cultured and 50 Hz, 1 mT EMF was applied for 4–6 h to cells induced withStaphylococcus aureusor interferon gamma/lipopolysaccharide (IFγ/LPS). Alterations in nitric oxide (NO), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels, heat shock protein 70 levels (hsp70), cGMP levels, caspase‐9 activation, and the growth rate ofS. aureuswere determined. The growth curve of exposed bacteria was lower than the control. Field application increased NO levels. The increase was more prominent forS. aureus‐induced cells and appeared earlier than the increase in cells without field application. However, a slight decrease was observed in iNOS levels. Increased cGMP levels in response to field application were closely correlated with increased NO levels. ELF‐EMF alone caused increased hsp70 levels in a time‐dependent manner. When cells were induced withS. aureusor IFγ/LPS, field application produced higher levels of hsp70. ELF‐EMF suppressed caspase‐9 activation by a small extent. These data confirm that ELF‐EMF affects bacterial growth and the response of the immune system to bacterial challenges, suggesting that ELF‐EMF could be exploited for beneficial uses. Bioelectromagnetics 31:603–612, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Iron chelation by cranberry juice and its impact on Escherichia coli growth
Authors: Lin Baochuan , Johnson Brandy J. , Rubin Robert A. , Malanoski Anthony P. , Ligler Frances S.
Published: August 2010

The various health benefits of Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry) are well documented and have been attributed mainly to its antioxidant capacity and anti‐adhesive activity. Several different mechanisms have been proposed to explain the possible role of cranberries, cranberry juice, and cranberry extracts in inhibiting bacterial growth. These mechanisms of action (i.e., inhibition of the microbial growth) have not been thoroughly studied. Here, we took advantage of current advances in microarray technology and used GeneChip® Escherichia coli genome 2.0 arrays to gain insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in the impact of cranberry juice on the properties of E. coli growth. The inclusion of cranberry juice in bacterial growth media was found to significantly impact the doubling time of E. coli. The gene expression results revealed altered expression of genes associated with iron transport and essential metabolic enzymes as well as with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis and fumarate hydratase in these cultures. The altered expression of genes associated with iron transport was consistent with the strong iron chelating capability of proanthocyanidins, a major constituent of cranberry juice. The iron depletion effect was confirmed by adding exogenous iron to the growth media. This addition partially reversed the inhibitory effect on bacterial growth observed in the presence of cranberry juice/extracts.
Opioid‐modulating properties of the neuropeptide FF system
Authors: Moulédous Lionel , Mollereau Catherine , Zajac Jean‐Marie
Published: August 2010

Opioid receptors are involved in the control of pain perception in the central nervous system together with endogenous neuropeptides, termed opioid‐modulating peptides, participating in a homeostatic system. Neuropeptide FF (NPFF) and related peptides possess anti‐opioid properties, the cellular mechanisms of which are still unclear. The purpose of this review is to detail the phenomenon of cross‐talk taking place between opioid and NPFF systems at thein vivopharmacological level and to propose cellular and molecular models of functioning. A better knowledge of the mechanisms underlying opioid‐modulating properties of NPFF has potential therapeutic interest for the control of opioid functions, notably for alleviating pain and/or for the treatment of opioid abuse. © 2010 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Retinoic acid: A key player in immunity
Authors: Pino‐Lagos Karina , Guo Yanxia , Noelle Randolph J.
Published: August 2010

For the past 100 years, vitamin A has been implicated as an essential dietary component in host resistance to infectious disease. However, only recently have studies begun to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of how vitamin A regulates cell‐mediated and humoral‐mediated immunity. In this review, we present an overview of the recent discoveries of the role that vitamin A and its metabolite, retinoic acid (RA), play in the regulation of immune cells. How RA impacts on leukocyte growth, differentiation, and homing is discussed with special attention to inflammatory responses and solid tumor microenvironment. © 2010 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Three‐dimensional morphometry of the A2 segment of the anterior cerebral artery with neurosurgical relevance
Authors: Żurada Anna , Gielecki Jerzy , Tubbs R. Shane , Loukas Marios , Cohen‐Gadol Aaron A. , Chlebiej Michał , Maksymowicz Wojciech , Nowak Dariusz , Zawiliński Jarosław , Michalak Maciej
Published: August 2010

Most prior morphometry data regarding the A2 segment of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) have been based on cadaveric measurements. With newer imaging modalities, surgical techniques, and minimally invasive procedures, new standards for the anatomy of this vessel are necessary. A novel computer‐based data system was used to analyze the three‐dimensional (3D) morphometry of 230 A2 segments. In addition, tortuosity (TI) and deviation indices (DI) for this segment were calculated. The mean internal diameter of the A2 segment was 1.86 mm, and segments tended to be larger in men and on left sides. A2 segments were asymmetrical in 43%, and this was more common in women. Lengths tended to be greater on right sides and in men. Volumes were greater in men and increased with age, which was statistically significant. These gender differences were found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05), for both volume and diameter. TI was equal among sides, but DI was more often greater on right sides. The correlation coefficient ratio for length and DI was statistically significant. It is important to understand various 3D morphometrical differences particularly between genders. By constructing blood flow simulation models and during revascularization procedures, surgeons are able to gain a better understanding of each patient's vascular anatomy. These additional 3D data regarding the anatomy of the postcommunicating parts of the ACA may be useful to the neurosurgeon and interventional neuroradiologist. These data may assist with an earlier diagnosis of pathologies affecting the 3D morphology of the ACA. Clin. Anat. 23:759–769, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.