bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applicant attraction to foreign companies: the case of Japanese companies in Vietnam
Authors: Kim Soyeon , Froese Fabian Jintae , Cox Anne
Published: August 2012

The ability to recruit talented employees in foreign markets has become crucial to the success of multinational corporations. This study investigated how foreign companies attract local employees by considering the case of Japanese companies in Vietnam. The results of a survey of 326 respondents indicate that individual values yielded both direct and indirect effects on their attraction to Japanese companies. Specifically, work‐centric, money‐oriented, and collectivistic job‐seekers were more attracted to Japanese companies. Further, individual values moderated the relationship between organizational characteristics and applicant attraction. These results provide support for the Attraction‐Selection‐Attrition framework and Person‐Organization fit theory in an Asian setting and have important theoretical and practical implications.
External knowledge and performance of offshore IT service providers in India: the mediating role of talent management
Authors: Chadee Doren , Raman Revti
Published: August 2012

The global shortage of IT professionals has been identified as one of the most serious threats against the continued growth of offshore IT service providers (OSPs). As a result, talent management has become a key competitive strategy for OSPs. However, how talent management contributes towards the performance of OSPs remains poorly understood in relation to its interaction with knowledge. To examine this issue, we draw on a sample of 68 OSPs in India to test the effects of talent management and external knowledge on performance. The results confirm that both external knowledge and talent management are positively related to firm performance and that the latter has strong mediating effects on the relationship between external knowledge and firm performance. The results suggest that OSPs should consider talent management as a mechanism through which knowledge resources can be exploited to enhance firm performance. The managerial implications and limitations of the findings are also discussed.
Effects of Time and Temperature of Annealing on Rheological and Thermal Properties of Rice Starch Suspensions during Gelatinization
Authors: Tsutsui Kazumi , Katsuta Keiko , Matoba Teruyoshi , Takemasa Makoto , Funami Takahiro , Sato Emiko , Nishinari Katsuyoshi
Published: August 2012

Effects of annealing time, t
a, and annealing temperature on the rheological and thermal properties of rice starch suspensions during the gelatinization were studied by dynamic viscoelasticity, steady shear viscosity, η, and differential scanning calorimetry measurements. When t
a increased, for the sample which was annealed at almost the same temperature as the gelatinization temperature (= T
gel; 62C), 58 or 62C, the onset temperatures at which the storage and loss moduli, G′ and G″, started to increase shifted to higher temperatures, and G′ and G″ decreased in the temperature range from 65 to about 75C. Further, G′ and G″ of the sample annealed at higher T than T
gel, 65C, increased in the temperature range from 50 to 75C. The amorphous and thermally unstable portion in the starch decreased with increasing t
a. Effects of annealing on the temperature dependence of η were found to be almost the same as those of G′ and G″. The annealing tended to prevent starch sample from shear thinning.

Practical Applications

This article shows the effects of annealing time, t
a, and annealing temperature on the rheological and thermal properties of rice starch suspensions. When t
a increased, the storage and loss moduli, G′ and G″, of rice starch decreased in the temperature range from 65 to about 75C and the gelatinization temperature increased due to the increase of the amount of leached‐out amylose. For the sample annealed at 62C for 15 min, it was observed that the annealing tended to prevent starch sample from shear thinning. These findings are helpful to control rheological and thermal properties during cooking of starch‐based foods.
Social Networks and Credit Card Overspending Among Young Adult Consumers
Authors: SOTIROPOULOS VENETA , D'ASTOUS ALAIN
Published: August 2012

Research that has looked at the reasons why young individuals overspend using their credit cards has not paid attention to the perceptions that they have about important others' credit card debt, their expectations as to how much to spend when they consume in the presence of them, and how the strength of the social relationships within their social network potentially influences the extent to which they overspend using their credit cards. A survey of 225 US university students composing a culturally diverse sample revealed that these social norms and network variables have interactive effects on credit card overspending. Specifically, the results show that the perceptions that young adult consumers have about important others' credit card debt impact their overspending using credit cards when they feel that they are expected to consume at the same level as important others in shared experiences, and when they are strongly connected to these individuals.
In vivo divisional tracking of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Takizawa Hitoshi , Manz Markus G.
Published: August 2012

Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) division leads to self‐renewal, differentiation, or death of HSCs, and adequate balance of this process results in sustained, lifelong, high‐throughput hematopoiesis. Despite their contribution to hematopoietic cell production, the majority of cells within the HSC population are quiescent at any given time. Recent studies have tackled the questions of how often HSCs divide, how divisional history relates to repopulating potential, and how many HSCs contribute to hematopoiesis. Here, we summarize these recent findings on HSC turnover from different experimental systems and discuss hypothetical models for HSC cycling and maintenance in steady‐state and upon hematopoietic challenge.
Epigenetic differences between sister chromatids?
Authors: Lansdorp Peter M. , Falconer Ester , Tao Jiang , Brind’Amour Julie , Naumann Ulrike
Published: August 2012

Semi‐conservative replication ensures that the DNA sequence of sister chromatids is identical except for replication errors and variation in the length of telomere repeats resulting from replicative losses and variable end processing. What happens with the various epigenetic marks during DNA replication is less clear. Many chromatin marks are likely to be copied onto both sister chromatids in conjunction with DNA replication, whereas others could be distributed randomly between sister chromatids. Epigenetic differences between sister chromatids could also emerge in a more predictable manner, for example, following processes that are associated with lagging strand DNA replication. The resulting epigenetic differences between sister chromatids could result in different gene expression patterns in daughter cells. This possibility has been difficult to test because techniques to distinguish between parental sister chromatids require analysis of single cells and are not obvious. Here, we briefly review the topic of sister chromatid epigenetics and discuss how the identification of sister chromatids in cells could change the way we think about asymmetric cell divisions and stochastic variation in gene expression between cells in general and paired daughter cells in particular.
Reprogramming cell fates: insights from combinatorial approaches
Authors: Pereira Carlos‐Filipe , Lemischka Ihor R. , Moore Kateri
Published: August 2012

Epigenetic reprogramming can be achieved in different ways, including nuclear transfer, cell fusion, or the expression of transcription factors (TFs). Combinatorial overexpression provides an opportunity to define the minimal core network of TFs that instructs specific cell fates. This approach has been employed to induce mouse and human pluripotency and differentiated cell types from cells that can be also as distant as cells from different germ layers. This suggests the possibility that any specific cell type may be directly converted into another if the appropriate reprogramming TF core is determined. Herein, we review the factors used for reprogramming multiple cell identities and raise the question of whether there is a common underlying blueprint for reprogramming factors. In addition to the generation of human cell types of interest for cell‐replacement therapies, we propose that the TF‐mediated conversion of differentiated cell types, especially somatic stem cells, will have an impact on our understanding of their biological development.
Enhancing engraftment of cord blood cells via insight into the biology of stem/progenitor cell function
Authors: Broxmeyer Hal E.
Published: August 2012

Cord blood (CB) transplantation has been used over the last 24 years to treat patients with malignant and nonmalignant disorders. CB has its advantages and disadvantages compared with other sources of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for transplantation. More knowledge of the cytokines and intracellular signaling molecules regulating HSCs and HPCs could be used to modulate these regulators for clinical benefit. This review provides information about the general field of CB transplantation and about studies from the author's laboratory that focus on regulation of HSCs and HPCs by CD26/DPPIV, SDF‐1/CXCL12, the Rheb2‐mTOR pathway, SIRT1, DEK, cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors, and cytokines/growth factors. Cryopreservation of CB HSCs and HPCs is also briefly discussed.
Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of human bone marrow– and amnion‐derived MSC subsets
Authors: Sivasubramaniyan Kavitha , Lehnen Daniela , Ghazanfari Roshanak , Sobiesiak Malgorzata , Harichandan Abhishek , Mortha Elisabeth , Petkova Neli , Grimm Sabrina , Cerabona Flavianna , de Zwart Peter , Abele Harald , Aicher Wilhelm K. , Faul Christoph , Kanz Lothar , Bühring Hans‐Jörg
Published: August 2012

Bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are nonhematopoietic cells that are able to differentiate into osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondrocytes. In addition, they are known to participate in niche formation for hematopoietic stem cells and to display immunomodulatory properties. Conventionally, these cells are functionally isolated from tissue based on their capacity to adhere to the surface of culture flasks. This isolation procedure is hampered by the unpredictable influence of secreted molecules, the interactions between cocultured hematopoietic and other unrelated cells, and by the arbitrarily selected removal time of nonadherent cells before the expansion of MSCs. Finally, functionally isolated cells do not provide biological information about the starting population. To circumvent these limitations, several strategies have been developed to facilitate the prospective isolation of MSCs based on the selective expression, or absence, of surface markers. In this report, we summarize the most frequently used markers and introduce new targets for antibody‐based isolation procedures of primary bone marrow‐ and amnion‐derived MSCs.
G protein–coupled receptor crosstalk and signaling in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Möhle Robert , Drost Adriana C.
Published: August 2012

A variety of G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) is expressed in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HPCs), including the chemokine receptor CXCR4, the leukotriene receptor CysLT1, the sphingosine 1‐phosphate receptor S1P1, the cannabinoid receptor CB2, and the complement receptor C3aR. While the role of CXCR4 in stem cell homing is largely established, the function of the other GPCRs expressed in HPCs is only partially understood. CXCR4 and CysLT1 inhibit their own activation after ligand binding (homologous desensitization). Stimulation of S1P1 or C3aR has been shown to activate CXCR4 in HPCs that may sensitize CXCR4‐dependent stem cell homing. In contrast, activation of CXCR4 results in a loss of CysLT1 function, which is most likely mediated by protein kinase C (PKC) signaling (heterologous desensitization) and could explain the ineffectiveness of CysLT1 antagonists to mobilize HPCs in vivo. Further characterization of GPCR crosstalk will allow a better understanding of HPC trafficking.
Hematopoietic stem cells are regulated by Cripto, as an intermediary of HIF‐1α in the hypoxic bone marrow niche
Authors: Miharada Kenichi , Karlsson Göran , Rehn Matilda , Rörby Emma , Siva Kavitha , Cammenga Jörg , Karlsson Stefan
Published: August 2012

Cripto has been known as an embryonic stem (ES)‐ or tumor‐related soluble/cell membrane protein. In this study, we demonstrated that Cripto has a role as an important regulatory factor for hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Recombinant Cripto sustained the reconstitution ability of HSCs in vitro. Flow cytometry analysis uncovered that GRP78, one of the candidate receptors for Cripto, was expressed on a subset of HSCs and could distinguish dormant/myeloid‐biased HSCs and active/lymphoid‐biased HSCs. Cripto is expressed in hypoxic endosteal niche cells where GRP78+ HSCs mainly reside. Proteomics analysis revealed that Cripto‐GRP78 binding stimulates glycolytic metabolism‐related proteins and results in lower mitochondrial potential in HSCs. Furthermore, conditional knockout mice for HIF‐1α, a master regulator of hypoxic responses, showed reduced Cripto expression and decreased GRP78+ HSCs in the endosteal niche area. Thus, Cripto‐GRP78 is a novel HSC regulatory signal mainly working in the hypoxic niche.
Role of N‐cadherin in the regulation of hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow niche
Authors: Arai Fumio , Hosokawa Kentaro , Toyama Hirofumi , Matsumoto Yoshiko , Suda Toshio
Published: August 2012

Cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix interactions between hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and their niches are critical for the maintenance of stem cell properties. Here, it is demonstrated that a cell adhesion molecule, N‐cadherin, is expressed in hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) and plays a critical role in the regulation of HSPC engraftment. Furthermore, overexpression of N‐cadherin in HSCs promoted quiescence and preserved HSC activity during serial bone marrow (BM) transplantation (BMT). Inhibition of N‐cadherin by the transduction of N‐cadherin short hairpin (sh) RNA (shN‐cad) reduced the lodgment of donor HSCs to the endosteal surface, resulting in a significant reduction in long‐term engraftment. shN‐cad‐transduced cells were maintained in the spleen for six months after BMT, indicating that N‐cadherin expression in HSCs is specifically required in the BM. These findings suggest that N‐cadherin‐mediated cell adhesion is functionally essential for the regulation of HSPC activities in the BM niche.
Current insights into neutrophil homeostasis
Authors: Bugl Stefanie , Wirths Stefan , Müller Martin R. , Radsak Markus P. , Kopp Hans‐Georg
Published: August 2012

Neutrophil granulocytes represent the first immunologic barrier against invading pathogens, and neutropenia predisposes to infection. However, neutrophils may also cause significant collateral inflammatory damage. Therefore, neutrophil numbers are tightly regulated by an incompletely understood homeostatic feedback loop adjusting the marrow's supply to peripheral needs. Granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) is accepted to be the major determinant of neutrophil production, and G‐CSF levels have, soon after its discovery, been described to be inversely correlated with neutrophil counts. A neutrophil sensor, or “neutrostat,” has, therefore, been postulated. The prevailing feedback hypothesis was established in adhesion molecule–deficient mice; it includes macrophages and Th17 cells, which determine G‐CSF levels in response to the number of peripherally transmigrated, apoptosing neutrophils. Recent work has deepened our understanding of homeostatic regulation of neutrophil granulopoiesis, but there are still inconsistent findings and unresolved questions when it comes to a plausible hypothesis, similar to the feedback control models of red cell or platelet homeostasis.
Caudal genes in blood development and leukemia
Authors: Lengerke Claudia , Daley George Q.
Published: August 2012

Members of the caudal gene family (in mice and humans: Cdx1, Cdx2, and Cdx4) have been studied during early development as regulators of axial elongation and anteroposterior patterning. In the adult, Cdx1 and Cdx2, but not Cdx4, have been intensively explored for their function in intestinal tissue homeostasis and the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal cancers. Involvement in embryonic hematopoiesis was first demonstrated in zebrafish, where cdx genes render posterior lateral plate mesoderm competent to respond to genes specifying hematopoietic fate, and compound mutations in cdx genes thus result in a bloodless phenotype. Parallel studies performed in zebrafish embryos and murine embryonic stem cells (ESCs) delineate conserved pathways between fish and mammals, corroborating a BMP/Wnt‐Cdx‐Hox axis during blood development that can be employed to augment derivation of blood progenitors from pluripotent stem cells in vitro. The molecular regulation of Cdx genes appears complex, as more recent data suggest involvement of non‐Hox–related mechanisms and the existence of auto‐ and cross‐regulatory loops governed by morphogens. Here, we will review the role of Cdx genes during hematopoietic development by comparing effects in zebrafish and mice and discuss their participation in malignant blood diseases.
Thermal Tolerance and Survival of Cronobacter sakazakii in Powdered Infant Formula Supplemented with Vanillin, Ethyl Vanillin, and Vanillic Acid
Authors: Yemiş Gökçe Polat , Pagotto Franco , Bach Susan , Delaquis Pascal
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  The thermal tolerance Cronobacter sakazakii was examined in sterile powdered infant formula (PIF) rehydrated at 58 °C in water or apple juice supplemented with vanillin, ethyl vanillin, or vanillic acid. All three compounds decreased thermal tolerance during‐rehydration and the lowest decimal reduction time (D‐value, 0.19 ± 0.01 min) was measured in PIF rehydrated in apple juice supplemented with 20 mM vanillic acid. At this level of supplementation no C. sakazakii were detected in PIF stored for 48 h at 10 and 24 h at 21 °C subsequent to a sublethal heat treatment. Thermal tolerance during rehydration and survival in reconstituted PIF were influenced by compound type, concentration, and temperature. Supplementation of PIF with vanillin, ethyl vanillin, or vanillic acid could enhance the safety of PIF or other dehydrated foods contaminated with C. sakazakii.
Characterization of Myosin Subfragment‐1 of Summer and Winter Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) Muscle
Authors: Zheng Liang , Yu Kefeng , Yuan Chunhong , Wang Xichang , Chen Shunsheng , Kimura Ikuo , Konno Kunihiko
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  Myosin subfragment‐1 (S1) was prepared from myofibrils of summer and winter silver carp by chymotryptic digestion in the presence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Two S1 heavy chain isoforms with different molecular sizes of 91 kDa and 95 kDa were detected in the fast skeletal muscle from summer and winter silver carp, respectively. ATPase inactivation assay indicated that winter S1 was about 20‐fold unstable comparing to summer S1. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight/mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) further confirmed that summer and winter myosin S1 heavy chain isoforms were homologous to myosin high‐temperature type and myosin low‐temperature type S1 heavy chain, respectively. Moreover, both types of myosin S1 heavy chain isoforms were identified at the intermediate stage. The results indicated that myosin was expressed in a season‐specific manner; different types of myosin isomer expressed in different seasons, showing different thermostabilities.

Practical Application:  Silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, is one of the most abundant freshwater fish species in China. The structure thermal stability of myosin rod from silver carp was affected by season change. The gel‐forming abilities of surimi prepared in different seasons were different. This study investigated the seasonal differences in structure thermal stability of myosin S1 which is vital for gel formation of myosin. The results of this study will aid understanding of the relationship between the structure and function of myosin, and effective production of surimi from freshwater fish species in different seasons.
Selenium Bioaccumulation in Shiitake Mushrooms: A Nutritional Alternative Source of this Element
Authors: Nunes Regiane Gonçalves Feitosa Leal , Luz Jose Maria R. da , Freitas Rodrigo de B. , Higuchi Angela , Kasuya Maria Catarina M. , Vanetti Maria Cristina D.
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  Mushrooms have effective mechanisms to absorb and accumulate trace elements from substrates and, therefore could be used as a strategy to produce mineral‐enriched food and nutritional supplements. This study aimed to enrich shiitake mushrooms with selenium (Se), an important dietary element in human health. Strains of Lentinula edodes (Berk.) were grown on artificial logs composed of eucalyptus sawdust, and were subjected to cold shock in water containing sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) at concentrations of up to 1.28 mM. The content of Se in the mushrooms increased linearly with increasing amounts of Na2SeO3 added to the cold water although above 0.96 mM, mushroom formation was inhibited. Concentrations greater than 17 mg Se 100/g of dried mushrooms were observed after treatment with 0.64 mM Na2SeO3. Shiitake mushroom had a demonstrate potential to offer an effective and economical way to produce Se‐enriched products and, the strategy of adding selenite in cold water, used in this study, showed promising once it does not interfere with mycelial growth.

Practical Application:  Selenium is an essential trace element for both human and animals and is required for the 21st amino acid, selenocysteine, which is used for the synthesis of about a dozen selenoenzymes. In this study, it is demonstrated that shiitake mushroom is a good Se accumulator and only one step during fructification was necessary to obtained enriched mushroom. Se enriched shiitake mushroom can be considered to be an excellent source of this element and used to consumption in different ways.
Ultraviolet‐B Radiation Induced Cross‐linking Improves Physical Properties of Cold‐ and Warm‐Water Fish Gelatin Gels and Films
Authors: Otoni Caio G. , Avena‐Bustillos Roberto J. , Chiou Bor‐Sen , Bilbao‐Sainz Cristina , Bechtel Peter J. , McHugh Tara H.
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  Cold‐ and warm‐water fish gelatin granules were exposed to ultraviolet‐B radiation for doses up to 29.7 J/cm2. Solutions and films were prepared from the granules. Gel electrophoresis and refractive index were used to examine changes in molecular weight of the samples. Also, the gel strength and rheological properties of the solutions as well as the tensile and water vapor barrier properties of the films were characterized. SDS‐PAGE and refractive index results indicated cross‐linking of gelatin chains after exposure to radiation. Interestingly, UV‐B treated samples displayed higher gel strengths, with cold‐ and warm‐water fish gelatin having gel strength increases from 1.39 to 2.11 N and from 7.15 to 8.34 N, respectively. In addition, both gelatin samples exhibited an increase in viscosity for higher UV doses. For gelatin films, the cold‐water fish gelatin samples made from irradiated granules showed greater tensile strength. In comparison, the warm‐water gelatin films made from irradiated granules had lower tensile strength, but better water vapor barrier properties. This might be due to the UV induced cross‐linking in warm‐water gelatin that disrupted helical structures.
Identification of Geometrical Isomers and Comparison of Different Isomeric Samples of Astaxanthin
Authors: Qiu Dan , Wu Yue‐Chan , Zhu Wen‐Li , Yin Hong , Yi Long‐Tao
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  A high‐performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) analysis system for isomeric astaxanthin was developed. The separation system consisted of a C30 column and an elution system of methanol/MTBE/water/dichloromethane (77 : 13 : 8 : 2, v/v/v/v). Using the combination of HPLC diode array detector and HPLC atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry, 11 geometrical isomers and 4 epoxides of astaxanthin were successfully identified. Referred to crystal, only isomerization with different degrees was found for solvent dissolving and iodine catalysis, while melting of astaxanthin caused isomerization, slight oxidation, and more noticeable polymerization confirmed by gel permeation chromatography. Chemical changes in isomeric samples all caused a decrease in UV content. The vibrational spectra (infrared and Raman) showed that epoxide was the only new functional group generated for melting. Changes of several key bands and formations of new bands were found in iodine catalysis and melting samples because of isomerization.

Practical Application:  Eleven geometrical isomers and 4 epoxides, which were normally generated for solvent dissolving, iodine catalysis, and melting of astaxanthin, have been identified by C30‐HPLC‐MS technology. Furthermore, different samples were measured by gel permeation chromatography, UV, infrared, and Raman, based on the analysis of messages, the effect of each processing was well understood.
Separation of Phospholipids from Hen Egg Yolk by Short Packed Silica Gel Column Chromatography
Authors: Lei Lin , Li Jing , Hu Jiang‐ning , Liu Rong , Fan Ya‐wei , Tang Liang , Deng Ze‐yuan
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  Short packed silica gel column chromatography has been performed to optimize the production of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylcholine (PC) from hen egg yolk with very low or no toxic solvents. The effects of silica type, sample loading amount, dimension of the glass chromatotube, and mobile phase compositions were investigated and high separation efficiency was achieved: gradient elution as 200 mL ethanol followed by 300 mL 95% ethanol to fractionate PE and PC after neutral lipids (NL) removed by 120 mL ethyl acetate, 40 mm silica gel (54 to 74 μm) bed height of the chromatotube with 22 mm inner dia (ID), and 0.25 g sample loading amount. By this procedure, 3.69 g PE and 2.88 g PC per 100 g egg yolk lipids were obtained, respectively. The refined PE and PC were identified by high‐performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet detector (HPLC‐UV) with purity over 96%. The fatty acids in egg yolk revealed that PE and PC characterized higher ratios of n− 6/n− 3 (PE, 7.41; PC, 8.99). 18:2 n− 6 of PC (15.21%) predominated over PE (10.29%), whereas the level of 20:4 n− 6 of PC (8.78%) was lower than PE (15.67%).
Reduction of Listeria monocytogenes in Raw Catfish Fillets by Essential Oils and Phenolic Constituent Carvacrol
Authors: Desai Monil A. , Soni Kamlesh A. , Nannapaneni Ramakrishna , Schilling M. Wes , Silva Juan L.
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  The antimicrobial activity of various essential oils and carvacrol was determined on fresh raw catfish fillets against a 4‐strain Listeria monocytogenes mixture representing serotypes 1/2b, 3b, 4b, and 4c that were predominantly isolated from catfish processing environments. Thyme oil, oregano oil and carvacrol exhibited concentration and time dependent responses in broth against L. monocytogenes; for example 0.5% concentrations resulted in 4 log CFU/mL reduction within 30 min whereas 0.1% concentrations required more than 24 h for the same level of reduction. Lemon, orange, and tangerine oils, at 0.5% showed listeriostatic effect in which 4 log CFU/mL of the initial L. monocytogenes load was unchanged at 4 °C in 10 d whereas 1% concentrations were listericidal in a time dependent manner. Apart from carvacrol, efficacy of tested essential oils in reducing L. monocytogenes and total microbial load from catfish fillet was very limited. Dipping treatment of catfish fillets in 2% carvacrol solution for 30 min at 4 °C reduced L. monocytogenes to an undetectable level from their initial load of 5 log CFU/g and reduced total microbial load from catfish fillets by approximately 5 log CFU/g. In sensory analysis trained panelist preferred control samples over 2% carvacrol treated samples implying potential limitation in applicability of carvacrol for fillet treatments.
Predicting Guar Seed Splitting by Compression between Two Plates Using Hertz Theory of Contact Stresses
Authors: Vishwakarma R. K. , Shivhare U. S. , Nanda S. K.
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  Hertz's theory of contact stresses was applied to predict the splitting of guar seeds during uni‐axial compressive loading between 2 rigid parallel plates. The apparent modulus of elasticity of guar seeds varied between 296.18 and 116.19 MPa when force was applied normal to hilum joint (horizontal position), whereas it varied between 171.86 and 54.18 MPa when force was applied in the direction of hilum joint (vertical position) with in moisture content range of 5.16% to 15.28% (d.b.). At higher moisture contents, the seeds yielded after considerable deformation, thus showing ductile nature. Distribution of stresses below the point of contact were plotted to predict the location of critical point, which was found at 0.44 to 0.64 mm and 0.37 to 0.53 mm below the contact point in vertical and horizontal loading, respectively, depending upon moisture content. The separation of cotyledons from each other initiated before yielding of cotyledons and thus splitting of seed took place. The relationships between apparent modulus of elasticity, principal stresses with moisture content were described using second‐order polynomial equations and validated experimentally.

Practical Application:  Manufacture of guar gum powder requires dehulling and splitting of guar seeds. This article describes splitting behavior of guar seeds under compressive loading. Results of this study may be used for design of dehulling and splitting systems of guar seeds.
Removal of Chloramphenicol by Macroporous Adsorption Resins in Honey: A Novel Approach on Reutilization of Antibiotics Contaminated Honey
Authors: Cheng Ni , Gao Hui , Deng Jianjun , Wang Bini , Xu Ruihan , Cao Wei
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  The effects of different steps in honey production on chloramphenicol (CAP) levels and CAP removal from honey using macroporous adsorption resins (MARs) were investigated in this study. CAP residues in honey were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay after each processing step including preheating, filtration, vacuum concentration and pasteurization. Vacuum concentration contributes the most reduction of CAP level (9.9%). Meanwhile, 5 types of MARs (including LSI‐1, LSI‐2, LSI‐3, LS‐803, and LS‐903) were used in CAP adsorption. The results showed that LS‐803 resin had higher adsorption rate of 86% than other resins in removing CAP from honey, and its optimal adsorption time and temperature were 40 min and 55 °C, respectively. The treated honey could be used as feed additive or biomass energy. Therefore, it would be a novel approach to reutilization of antibiotics contaminated honey.
Optimization of Ultrasonic‐Assisted Extraction of Total Saponins from Eclipta prostrasta L. Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Hu Ting , Guo Yan‐Yun , Zhou Qin‐Fan , Zhong Xian‐Ke , Zhu Liang , Piao Jin‐Hua , Chen Jian , Jiang Jian‐Guo
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  Eclipta prostrasta L. is a traditional Chinese medicine herb, which is rich in saponins and has strong antiviral and antitumor activities. An ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE) technique was developed for the fast extraction of saponins from E. prostrasta. The content of total saponins in E. prostrasta was determined using UV/vis spectrophotometric methods. Several influential parameters like ethanol concentration, extraction time, temperature, and liquid/solid ratio were investigated for the optimization of the extraction using single factor and Box‐Behnken experimental designs. Extraction conditions were optimized for maximum yield of total saponins in E. prostrasta using response surface methodology (RSM) with 4 independent variables at 3 levels of each variable. Results showed that the optimization conditions for saponins extraction were: ethanol concentration 70%, extraction time 3 h, temperature 70 °C, and liquid/solid ratio 14:1. Corresponding saponins content was 2.096%. The mathematical model developed was found to fit well with the experimental data.

Practical Application:  Although there are wider applications of Eclipta prostrasta L. as a functional food or traditional medicine due to its various bioactivities, these properties are limited by its crude extracts. Total saponins are the main active ingredient of E. prostrasta. This research has optimized the extraction conditions of total saponins from E. prostrasta, which will provide useful reference information for further studies, and offer related industries with helpful guidance in practice.
Development of a Hull‐Less Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) Seed Oil Press‐Cake Spread
Authors: Radočaj Olga , Dimić Etelka , Vujasinović Vesna
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  A stable, oil‐based spread rich in the omega‐3 (ω‐3) and omega‐6 (ω‐6) fatty acids was developed using a hull‐less pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo L.) oil press‐cake, a by‐product of the pumpkin oil pressing process, along with cold‐pressed hemp oil. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to investigate the effects of two factors, as the formulation's compositional variables: a commercial stabilizer (X1) and cold‐pressed hemp oil (X2) added to the pumpkin seed oil press‐cake in the spread formulations. A central composite, 2‐factorial experimental design on 5 levels was used to optimize the spreads where model responses were ω‐3 fatty acids content, spreadability (hardness), oil separation, and sensory evaluation. The selected responses were significantly affected by both variables (P < 0.05). The spreads resembled commercial peanut butter, both in appearance, texture and spreadability; were a source of ω‐3 fatty acids and with no visual oil separation after 1 mo of storage. An optimum spread was produced using 1.25% (w/w) of stabilizer and 80% of hemp oil (w/w, of the total added oil) which had 0.97 g of ω‐3 fatty acids per serving size; penetration depth of 68.4 mm; oil separation of 9.2% after 3 mo of storage; and a sensory score of 17.5.

Practical Application:  A use of by‐products generated from different food processing technologies, where the edible waste is successfully incorporated as a value‐added ingredient, has become a very important area of research to support global sustainability efforts. This study contributes to the knowledge of a product design process for oil‐based spread development, where oil press‐cake, a by‐product of the oil pressing process of the naked pumpkin seeds, was used and where results have demonstrated that a new product can be successfully developed and potentially manufactured as a functional food.
A new β0‐thalassemia frameshift mutation [β 48 (‐T)] in a Uruguayan family
Authors: Da Luz J. , López P. , Kimura E. M. , Albuquerque D. M. , Costa F. F. , Sans M. , Sonati M. F.
Published: August 2012

We describe here a new frameshift mutation of β‐thalassemia in a Uruguayan family with Italian ancestry [β48 (‐T); HBB:c.146delT]. This frameshift results in formation of premature stop codon (TGA) 40 bp downstream and in a short unstable product that is degraded in the cell.
Compromises between international habitat conservation guidelines and small‐scale fisheries in Pacific island countries
Authors: Hamel Mélanie A. , Andréfouët Serge , Pressey Robert L.
Published: August 2012

Wallis, Alofi, and Futuna are three small islands in the central Pacific Ocean, characterized by different reef geomorphologies. Following a request from the local Environment Service, we developed an indicative conservation plan for each island with two objectives: (1) representing 20% of the extent of each coral reef habitat within no‐take areas while (2) keeping all subsistence fishing grounds open for extraction. The first objective was more ambitious than the current Convention on Biological Diversity (Aichi) targets. We found that both objectives could not be achieved simultaneously and that large compromises are needed. Due to the small size of these islands, and the dependence of local communities on coral reef resources, the fishery objective significantly limited the extent of most habitats available for conservation. The problem is exacerbated if the conservation plan uses larger conservation units and more complex habitat typologies. Our results indicate that international conservation guidelines should be carefully adapted to small Pacific islands and that incentives to make feasible the necessary reductions in available fishing grounds will probably be needed.
Leaf glandular trichomes in Empetrum nigrum: morphology, histochemistry, ultrastructure and secondary metabolites
Authors: Muravnik Lyudmila E. , Shavarda Alexey L.
Published: August 2012

The morphology, histochemistry and ultrastructure of the glandular trichomes on Empetrumnigrum leaves have been studied and more than a third of the metabolites were identified. Samples of the leaves were fixed and processed for light and electron microscopy. Glandular trichomes are situated on the inner surface of the rolled leaves. They have a clavate head and a short stalk. Histochemical tests and fluorescent microscopy demonstrate differentiated staining of the various cell types in the glandular trichome for proteins, pectins, lipids, tannins and phenylpropanoids. During secretion, the secretory cells contain rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi stacks with large vesicles, diversiform leucoplasts in contact with a reticular sheath and opaque deposits in the vacuoles. There are ultrastructural and functional differences between the secretory cells in the trichome head: synthesis of hydrophilic substances predominately occurs in the upper and middle secretory cells, whereas synthesis of lipophilic compounds takes place in the middle and lower secretory cells. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to determine the content of metabolites in the methanol extracts from the leaves. Many phenolic compounds (phenolic acids, bibenzyls, catechins, flavanones and flavan‐3‐ols) as well as several terpenoids were found. Two chalcones (2′,4′‐dimethoxydihydrochalcone and 2′,4′,6′‐trihydroxydihydrochalcone), one bibenzyl (batatasin III), one flavanone (7‐hydroxyflavanone) and 8 terpenoids (including phytol, α‐tocopherol, ß‐sitosterol, α‐amyrin, uvaol, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid and dehydroursolic acid) were identified in E. nigrum leaf extracts. The total yield of phenolic compounds is five to six times higher than the yield of terpenoids. It has been established that chalcones have no hydroxyl groups in ring B whereas bibenzyls have a hydroxyl group in the 3‐position in ring B. On the basis of the histochemistry, fluorescent microscopy, ultrastructure and chemical analysis, it may be concluded that synthesis and accumulation of phenolic substances and terpenoids takes place in the clavate glandular trichomes. Secondary metabolites synthesized in the trichomes protect leaf tissues from viruses, bacteria and pathogenic fungi.
Photinia taishunensis sp. nov. (Rosaceae) from Zhejiang, eastern China
Authors: Xia Guo‐Hua , Lou Lu‐Huan , Jin Shui‐Hu , Li Gen‐You
Published: August 2012

Photinia taishunensis G. H. Xia, L. H. Lou & S. H. Jin (Rosaceae, Spiraeoideae) from Zhejiang, China, is described and illustrated. It has previously been confused with P. lochengensis Yü, but differs in details of habit, leaf size, leaf shape, inflorescence, flower size and pubescence. The pollen grains of P. taishunensis are monads, elliptical with trisulcate apertures, and the exine is rugulose, dotted with sparse punctures.
Limonium cedrorum sp. nov. (Plumbaginaceae) from Lebanon
Authors: Domina Gianniantonio , Raimondo Francesco M.
Published: August 2012

Limonium cedrorum Domina & Ramondo, a new species belonging to the L. palmare aggr., is described and illustrated from the inland near Becharre (Lebanon). Its relationships with morphologically close taxa are discussed. Limonium cedrorum differs from L. sieberi and L. postii mainly by looser inflorescences and larger flowers. It differs from L. galilaeum by longer outer bract and longer scale below the first inflorescence branch, few sterile branches, thicker base of the inflorescence and denser spikes, and from L. graecum by the shape of the inflorescence, longer basal internodes and the shape of the calyx.
Treatment Abandonment in Feline Sporotrichosis – Study of 147 Cases
Authors: Chaves A. R. , de Campos M. P. , Barros M. B. L. , do Carmo C. N. , Gremião I. D. F. , Pereira S. A. , Schubach T. M. P.
Published: August 2012

This study describes the epidemiological, clinical and mycological aspects of feline sporotrichosis cases attending the Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonosis in Domestic Animals – Evandro Chagas Clinical Research Institute (LAPCLIN‐DERMZOO/IPEC/FIOCRUZ), from 1998 to 2005. It was possible to get in contact with 147 (19.2%) cat owners. One hundred and thirteen (76.9%) cats were male, 117 (79.6%) had no defined race and 87 (59.2%) were sexually intact. The age ranged from 72 to 216 months (median = 108 months). Nineteen cats were reassessed: eleven (57.8%) were male, thirteen (36.8%) were breed and fifteen (47.3%) castrated. Fourteen (52.6%) animals lived at home and did not roamed the streets. Seven (36.8%) had normal clinical findings and negative mycological examination. Twelve (63.1%) cats had skin lesions compatible with sporotrichosis. Thirty‐one (21%, n = 147) cats disappeared after abandoning treatment, 36 (24.5%, n = 147) were alive and 80 (54.4%, n = 147) had died. Causes of death informed by the owners were: sporotrichosis in 35 (43.7%, n = 80), accidental death in 27 (33.7%, n = 80) and other diseases in 18 (22.5%, n = 80). Withdrawal of treatment occurred mainly at the time of clinical improvement and may represent a serious obstacle to the control of sporotrichosis.
A Markov Chain Model for an EMS System with Repositioning
Authors: Alanis Ramon , Ingolfsson Armann , Kolfal Bora
Published: August 2012

We propose and analyze a two‐dimensional Markov chain model of an Emergency Medical Services system that repositions ambulances using a compliance table policy, which is commonly used in practice. The model is solved via a fixed‐point iteration. We validate the model against a detailed simulation model for several scenarios. We demonstrate that the model provides accurate approximations to various system performance measures, such as the response time distribution and the distribution of the number of busy ambulances, and that it can be used to identify near‐optimal compliance tables. Our numerical results show that performance depends strongly on the compliance table that is used, indicating the importance of choosing a well‐designed compliance table.
Team Dispersion, Information Technology, and Project Performance
Authors: Bardhan Indranil , Krishnan Vish V. , Lin Shu
Published: August 2012

The impact of information technology (IT) on the performance of distributed projects is not well understood. Although prior research has documented that dispersion among project teams has an adverse effect on project performance, the role of IT as an enabler of communication to bridge the spatial distance among team members in distributed networks has not been empirically studied. We focus on the role of IT as a moderator of the relationship between team dispersion and project performance using projects as the unit of analysis. We find that IT mitigates the negative effect of team dispersion on project performance, especially in high information volume projects. Our central contribution is the development of an empirically tested model to improve the understanding of the operational impact of IT as a vehicle to bridge spatial dispersion among distributed teams that are engaged in knowledge‐intensive work.
Leveraging Open Innovation Using Intermediary Networks
Authors: Billington Corey , Davidson Rhoda
Published: August 2012

Open innovation, fuelled by the rise of the Internet, has made it feasible and cheaper for firms to open themselves up to a wide range of external sources of innovative ideas. The explosive growth of open innovation intermediary networks, such as InnoCentive or Linked‐in, enables the rapid pairing of firms seeking knowledge to address a wide range of business challenges (seekers) with other firms or individuals who already have relevant knowledge (solvers or knowledge brokers). These intermediary networks allow procurement departments to source codified and un‐codified knowledge from firms or individuals outside their traditional supplier networks using one‐off transactional relationships. Although sourcing ideas in this way theoretically poses problems for knowledge search and transfer, we have found that companies can draw on processes and integration mechanisms developed by procurement and design engineering to develop effective organizational learning routines. These routines are strategically vital to source new ideas through open innovation using intermediary networks and create competitive advantage.
A Performance Metric and Goal‐Setting Procedure for Deadline‐Oriented Processes
Authors: Doerr Kenneth Howard , Gue Kevin R.
Published: August 2012

A performance metric and goal‐setting procedure is defined for an order fulfillment operation. In this operation, order requests arrive continuously, and filled orders are shipped at a specific time each day. The metric links the continuous operation of order fulfillment to the scheduled shipment times. To prescribe goals against the metric, a performance model is developed that incorporates the motivational effect of a goal. Goal‐Setting Theory is used to establish the performance goal and to show how to match arriving orders to deadlines based on their arrival times and expected processing times. Monte Carlo simulation on data from a large distribution center is used to demonstrate that setting these two parameters in the light of motivational research yields quite different results than doing so with an intuitive method. Moreover, a motivational goal leads to better operational performance; that is, correctly setting up the metric causes more customers to receive their orders sooner.
Nursing Interventions for Adult Intensive Care Patients With Risk for Corneal Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: Werli‐Alvarenga Andreza , Ercole Flávia Falci , Herdman T. Heather , Chianca Tânia Couto Machado
Published: August 2012

PURPOSE:  Sedated patients in induced comas may experience ineffective eyelid closure, presenting higher risk for corneal ulcer. The objective was to identify evidence‐based practice for corneal ulcer prevention within the intensive care unit.

METHODS:  A systematic literature review of nine articles was performed.

CONCLUSIONS:  Questions remain about which care practice is most effective, although most studies consider a humidity chamber with polyethylene film to be the best practice.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE:  A proposed NANDA‐I nursing diagnosis, risk for corneal injury, reflects this human response that demands nursing assessment and intervention. This study provides evidence toward developing nursing interventions and practice guidelines for the care of these patients.