bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammation, Defective Insulin Signaling, and Mitochondrial Dysfunction as Common Molecular Denominators Connecting Type 2 Diabetes to Alzheimer Disease
Authors: De Felice Fernanda G. , Ferreira Sergio T.
Published: June 2014

A growing body of evidence supports an intriguing clinical/epidemiological connection between Alzheimer disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). T2D patients have significantly increased risk of developing AD and vice versa. Recent studies have begun to reveal common pathogenic mechanisms shared by AD and metabolic disorders, notably obesity and T2D. In T2D and obesity, low-grade chronic inflammation is a key mechanism leading to peripheral insulin resistance, which progressively causes tissue deterioration and overall health decline. In the brain, proinflammatory signaling was recently found to mediate impaired neuronal insulin signaling, synapse deterioration, and memory loss. Here, we review evidence indicating that inflammation, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial dysfunction are common features in AD and T2D. We further propose the hypothesis that dementia and its underlying neuronal dysfunction are exacerbated or driven by peripheral inflammation. Identification of central and peripheral inflammation as potential mediators of brain dysfunction in AD may lead to the development of effective treatments for this devastating disease.
Effect of Lowering the Glycemic Load With Canola Oil on Glycemic Control and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jenkins David J.A. , Kendall Cyril W.C. , Vuksan Vladimir , Faulkner Dorothea , Augustin Livia S.A. , Mitchell Sandra , Ireland Christopher , Srichaikul Korbua , Mirrahimi Arash , Chiavaroli Laura , Blanco Mejia Sonia , Nishi Stephanie , Sahye-Pudaruth Sandhya , Patel Darshna , Bashyam Balachandran , Vidgen Edward , de Souza Russell J. , Sievenpiper John L. , Coveney Judy , Josse Robert G. , Leiter Lawrence A.
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVE

Despite their independent cardiovascular disease (CVD) advantages, effects of α-linolenic acid (ALA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and low-glycemic-load (GL) diets have not been assessed in combination. We therefore determined the combined effect of ALA, MUFA, and low GL on glycemic control and CVD risk factors in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The study was a parallel design, randomized trial wherein each 3-month treatment was conducted in a Canadian academic center between March 2011 and September 2012 and involved 141 participants with type 2 diabetes (HbA1c 6.5%–8.5% [48–69 mmol/mol]) treated with oral antihyperglycemic agents. Participants were provided with dietary advice on either a low-GL diet with ALA and MUFA given as a canola oil–enriched bread supplement (31 g canola oil per 2,000 kcal) (test) or a whole-grain diet with a whole-wheat bread supplement (control). The primary outcome was HbA1c change. Secondary outcomes included calculated Framingham CVD risk score and reactive hyperemia index (RHI) ratio.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine percent of the test group and 90% of the control group completed the trial. The test diet reduction in HbA1c units of −0.47% (−5.15 mmol/mol) (95% CI −0.54% to −0.40% [−5.92 to −4.38 mmol/mol]) was greater than that for the control diet (−0.31% [−3.44 mmol/mol] [95% CI −0.38% to −0.25% (−4.17 to −2.71 mmol/mol)], P = 0.002), with the greatest benefit observed in those with higher systolic blood pressure (SBP). Greater reductions were seen in CVD risk score for the test diet, whereas the RHI ratio increased for the control diet.

CONCLUSIONS

A canola oil–enriched low-GL diet improved glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, particularly in participants with raised SBP, whereas whole grains improved vascular reactivity.
Comparison of the spectral-angular properties of light scattered in the Baltic Sea and oil emulsions
Authors: Freda W.
Published: June 2014

Angular distributions of scattered light, which are described by one of two forms, i.e. the Volume Scattering Function (VSF) or the phase function, are the least-known optical properties of seawater. This is because there is currently no commercially available instrument commonly used for such measurements. In particular, little is known about the spectral variability of VSF. The spectral properties of VSF can be presented by linear slopes of a scattering spectrum separately for all scattering angles. Through research conducted using a prototype Volume Scattering Meter (VSM), the linear slopes were determined for three Baltic Sea marine regions: open Baltic Sea waters, the Gulf of Gdańsk and the mouth of the Vistula River. In this paper, the spectral slopes of VSFs of those waters are compared with VSFs of oil-in-water emulsions. The optical properties of crude oil extracted from the Baltic seabed, called Petrobaltic, were taken for calculations. The results show that VSFs of oil emulsions differ from those of natural waters, especially close to the perpendicular direction of scattering. For scattering angles between 70° and 120° there is an increase observed for oil emulsions which distinguishes them from VSFs of Baltic waters. While the spectral slopes of VSFs of oil emulsions differ from those of Baltic water across almost the entire angular range, excluding backward directions close to 180°.
Occurrence of Pasteurellosis and Newcastle Disease in indigenous chickens in Sirajgonj district
Authors: Belal SMSH
Published: June 2014

A study was carried out on indigenous layer chickens to know occurrence of Avian Pasteurellosis (AP) and Newcastle disease (ND) in Sirajgonj during the period from January/2012 to December/2013. The clinical signs showed before death was recorded by taking history and the birds were subjected to post mortem examination. In addition to the clinical and necropsy findings, ND was detected by Anigen® rapid antigen detection kit. The AP was confirmed by isolation and identification of Pasteurella (P.) multocida from liver, spleen and heart samples. The P. multocida was found to grow on nutrient broth, nutrient agar, blood agar and Eosin Methylene Blue agar where it produced whitish, opaque, round, flat, translucent colonies. It produced turbidity on nutrient broth. The organism was not found to grow on MacConkey agar media and did not cause hemolysis on blood agar media. The impression smear of liver and heart blood were stained by Grams staining, Leishman staining and Methylene blue staining techniques to detect P. multocida. P. multocida organism was also found to fermnt dextrose, lactose and mannitol with the production of only acid but did not ferment maltose and lactose. P. mutocida was found non-motile, indole positive and urease negative. On triple sugar iron test it produced H2S and fermented only glucose. It was found negative to both methyl red test and Voges Proskauer test. Out of 360 birds tested 59.72% (215) was AP positive and 40.28% was ND positive. Age, Sex, season and mortality due to other diseases were not considered.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v11i2.19123 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2013). 11 (2): 97-105
Serological and pathological investigation of brucellosis in dairy cows of Mymensingh district, Bangladesh
Authors: Dey SK , Rahman MS , Rima UK , Hossain MZ , Chowdhury GA , Pervin M , Habib MA , Khan MAHNA
Published: June 2014

Brucellosis is a widespread and economically important infectious disease of animals and humans caused by the members of the genus Brucella. The disease is manifested by abortion, birth of unthrifty calves and retained placentae in female animals. The correct and prompt diagnosis is important for controlling and eradicating the disease from animals. This experiment was carried out in the Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh to detect Brucella antibody in dairy cows using Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (i-ELISA) and histopathology. The study was carried out between the periods of January 2012 to September 2012. Placental tissue obtained from aborted cow and internal organs of aborted fetus were used in histopathological study. A total of 190 sera sample were collected with the history of reproductive disorders, like late abortion, retained placenta and anestrous from Veterinary Hospital, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) and meat market Kewatkhali, Mymensingh. The seroprevalance of brucellosis using RBPT and iELISA were 2.63% and 1.05% respectively. Histopathological study revealed multifocal necrosis in hepatic parenchyma, depletion of lymphocytes in spleen and lymphnodes and distended trabeculi in spleen and lymphnodes in aborted calf, diffuse fibrosis around the placental epithelia and in placental tissues. Distinct histopathological lesions in the liver and spleen of Brucella suspected calf were not evident but the retained fetal membrane showed characteristics fibrosis and reactive cellular infiltration. It needs to adopt nucleic acid based technologies in order to confirm the species of Brucella involved and as well as to avoid cross reactivity of antibodies as seen in RBPT and iELISA.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v11i2.19124 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2013). 11 (2): 107-112
Prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthes in buffaloes in Barisal district of Bangladesh
Authors: Saha SS , Bhowmik DR , Chowdhury MMR
Published: June 2014

A total 270 samples were collected from July 2012 to December 2012 from three upazilas (Barisal sadar, Bakergonj and Mehendigonj) of Barisal district to know the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthes. Samples were collected in 10% neutral buffered formalin and shifted to Parasitology laboratory of the department of Pathology and Parasitology under the Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine (ANSVM) faculty of Patuakahli Science and Technology University. Samples were examined by direct smear method and simple sedimentation method of fecal sample examination technique. Among 270 samples 107 (39.6%) samples were found positive for gastrointestinal helminthes. Five types of helminthes were identified namely Fasciola gigantica (26.17%), Amphistomes (60.75%), Neoascaris vitulorum (1%), Schistosoma bovis (1%), Trichostrongylus axei (2%). The prevalence of mixed infection with Fasciola gigantica and Amphistomes was 9.34%. No cestode was found in this study. Comparative study among three different upazila shows highest prevalence in Barisal sadar (44%) and lowest in Mehendigonj (25%). Geographical location of different char island of Sadar upazila and season of sample collection may be the cause of highest prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthes in Sadar upazila of the district. Study period covered rainy season and part of winter season only. Highest parasitic ova were found in rainy season (44.32%) than winter season (29.41%). The age specific prevalence were 12.15%, 14.02%, 40.19%, 33.65% in 0-6 months, 7 months-2 years, 3 years- 6 years & 7 years - above respectively. History of administering anthelmintic (Levamisole hydrochloride) to the calf may be the cause of lowest prevalence of parasitic infection at early age in the study area. In this study, highest number (60.75%) of Amphistomes was found among positive cases. Some important Amphistomes of buffalo are Paramphistomum, Cotylophoron, Gigantocotyle, Gastrothylax etc. are difficult to differentiate through fecal sample examination. So, to understand the detail epidemiology, at least a year study using gross morphological examination with molecular characterization of helminthes is needed.DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v11i2.19137Bangl.J.Vet.Med. (2013).11(2): 131-135
Retrospective study of clinical diseases and disorders of cattle in Sirajganj district in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker MAS , Aktaruzzaman M , Rahman AKMA , Rahman MS
Published: June 2014

A retrospective-epidemiological study of cattle diseases/disorders was conducted at Baghabari Milking zone of Bangladesh starting from June 2008 to May 2012. Out of 22066 cases, 73.95% and 17.16% diseases/disorders were recorded in cows and calves respectively. About 58.42%, 23.56% 12.48% and 5.54% cases were general and systemic, infectious, production and reproductive and surgical diseases/disorders respectively. The most common general and systemic diseases/disorders were fever (17.91%), anorexia (17.55%) and weakness (14.71%). Among infectious diseases, 78.2%, 7.02% and 6.32% respectively were mastitis, FMD and black quarter. The predominant production and reproductive diseases were milk fever (33.48%), repeat breeder (17.10%), retained placenta (14.27%), metritis (13.11) and anestrous (11.44%). The most common surgical disorders were navel ill (46.9%), wound (20.19%), abscess (8.99%) and urolithiasis (8.67%). Statistically significant variation of diseases in different seasons was also noted. We recommend for undertaking research focusing on the causes of fever, anorexia and weakness as they were the most predominant general and systemic disorders of cattle. Control measure should be initiated to reduce the burden of mastitis, repeat breeder, retained placenta and anestrous which were most common production and reproductive diseases in the study area. A case control study may help to reveal the factors responsible for such a high level of occurrence of navel ill in calves. This study generated information which is valuable not only for the clinicians, researchers, animal health companies and policy planners but also for the academicians to update veterinary curricula.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v11i2.19138Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2013).11(2): 137-144
Isolation and identification of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli causing colibacillosis in calf in selective areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain MK , Rahman M , Nahar A , Khair A , Alam MM
Published: June 2014

This study was carried out to isolate, identify and characterize Escherichia coli from diarrheic calves, their prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity pattern during the period from November 2011 to December 2012. For this purpose 100 diarrheic fecal samples were collected from four different areas of Bangladesh. The samples were aseptically collected and brought to the laboratory of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. The organisms were identified as E. coli on the basis of cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. Further the isolated bacteria were confirmed by amplification of E. coli specific 16sRNA gene. The antibiotic resistant pattern of the isolates was also performed. Out of 100 samples 49 (49%) were found to be positive for E. coli. The highest prevalence was found in Shahjadpur, Sirajganj (53.33%) while lowest was in BAU, Mymensingh (40%). The antibiogram study revealed that all isolates were resistant against ampicillin, erythromycin, azithromycin and streptomycin where erythromycin was 100% resistant, whereas 100% sensitivity was found to tetracycline and gentamicin which might be the best choice of drug for the treatment of diarrheagenic E. coli causing colibacillosis in calves.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v11i2.19139Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2013).11(2): 145-149
Biochemical and immunological characterization of anthrax spore vaccine in goat
Authors: Roy P. Roy , Rashid MM , Ferdoush MJ , Dipti M , Chowdury MGA , Mostofa MG , Roy SK , Khan MAHNA , Hossain MM
Published: June 2014

Anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis bacterium and an acute infectious febrile septicemic disease of all warm-blooded animals including human. It is a disease of major economic importance in ruminant specially in goat characterized principally by a rapid fatal course followed by sudden death. The present investigation was under taken to determine the biochemical characterization of anthrax spore vaccine bacteria and to determine the immunological response in goat after anthrax vaccination. Anthrax vaccine was collected from local government veterinary hospital, Mymensingh which was prepared by LRI.  The goats were selected from different regions of Bangladesh. The used methods were culture of vaccine bacterial sediment in different media, staining of bacteria with Grams stain, and sugar fermentation tests for biochemical characterization of anthrax vaccine bacteria. Slide agglutination test and indirect ELISA tests were performed for immunological response after vaccination. Morphologically anthrax vaccine bacteria was gram positive rod shaped or short chain in anthrax vaccine sediment, culture in nutrient agar and nutrient broth. The anthrax vaccine bacteria fermented three sugars (dextrose, maltose and sucrose) and produced only acid but did not ferment two sugars (lactose and mannitol). Immunuglobulin of collected serum (Day0, Day30 and Day90) also agglutinated anthrax antigen on Day 30 and Day 90 of post immunization and onwards. Indirect ELISA provided evidence that immunization of captive and free range goat generated level of anti anthrax 1gG antibody response at Day 0 (OD Value 0.5474±0.0466) of immunization and reached its peak at Day 30 (OD Value 0.9604±0.0936) and maintained that level up to the end of the study (Day 90, OD Value 1.217±0.1129). After vaccination, immunological response was found in goat. However whether this immune response can protect natural anthrax infection need to be evaluated through challenge dose of fields isolates of Bacillus anthracis in future.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v11i2.19140Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2013).11(2): 151-157
Screening of chloramphenicol residues in chickens and fish in Chittagong city of Bangladesh
Authors: Bakar MA , Morshed AJM , Islam F , Karim R
Published: June 2014

Chloramphenicol, an illegal antibiotic has been widely used in aquaculture and poultry as an anti-microbial agent which has been banned in many countries for its toxic side effects. A random screening of chloramphenicol residues in some poultry and fishes by Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) have been carried out. The determined concentrations of chloramphenicol in farmed and wild chickens and its liver, various types of farmed fishes were in the range of minimum value of 0.133 µg/ kg to the highest value of 0.515 µg/ kg. The lowest concentration of 0.133 µg/ kg was determined in Pungas fish and the highest of 0.515 µg/ kg in Rui fish. Minimum Required Performance Limit (MRPL) in food of animal origin like Meat, Eggs, Milk, Urine, Honey and Aquaculture products for Chloramphenicol is 0.3 µg/ kg. The results of eight samples out of thirteen have been exceeded the limit of MRPL. So it is a matter of great concern for us.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v11i2.19144Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2013).11(2): 173-175
LiDAR Remote Sensing of Forest Structure and GPS Telemetry Data Provide Insights on Winter Habitat Selection of European Roe Deer
Authors: Ewald Michael , Dupke Claudia , Heurich Marco , Müller Jörg , Reineking Björn
Published: June 2014

The combination of GPS-Telemetry and resource selection functions is widely used to analyze animal habitat selection. Rapid large-scale assessment of vegetation structure allows bridging the requirements of habitat selection studies on grain size and extent, particularly in forest habitats. For roe deer, the cold period in winter forces individuals to optimize their trade off in searching for food and shelter. We analyzed the winter habitat selection of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in a montane forest landscape combining estimates of vegetation cover in three different height strata, derived from high resolution airborne Laser-scanning (LiDAR, Light detection and ranging), and activity data from GPS telemetry. Specifically, we tested the influence of temperature, snow height, and wind speed on site selection, differentiating between active and resting animals using mixed-effects conditional logistic regression models in a case-control design. Site selection was best explained by temperature deviations from hourly means, snow height, and activity status of the animals. Roe deer tended to use forests of high canopy cover more frequently with decreasing temperature, and when snow height exceeded 0.6 m. Active animals preferred lower canopy cover, but higher understory cover. Our approach demonstrates the potential of LiDAR measures for studying fine scale habitat selection in complex three-dimensional habitats, such as forests.
Protecting Health from Climate Change in the WHO European Region
Authors: Wolf Tanja , Martinez Gerardo , Cheong Hae-Kwan , Williams Eloise , Menne Bettina
Published: June 2014

“How far are we in implementing climate change and health action in the WHO European Region?” This was the question addressed to representatives of WHO European Member States of the working group on health in climate change (HIC). Twenty-two Member States provided answers to a comprehensive questionnaire that focused around eight thematic areas (Governance; Vulnerability, impact and adaptation (health) assessments; Adaptation strategies and action plans; Climate change mitigation; Strengthening health systems; Raising awareness and building capacity; Greening health services; and Sharing best practices). Strong areas of development are climate change vulnerability and impact assessments, as well as strengthening health systems and awareness raising. Areas where implementation would benefit from further action are the development of National Health Adaptation Plans, greening health systems, sharing best practice and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in other sectors. At the Parma Conference in 2010, the European Ministerial Commitment to Act on climate change and health and the European Regional Framework for Action to protect health from climate change were endorsed by fifty three European Member States. The results of this questionnaire are the most comprehensive assessment so far of the progress made by WHO European Member States to protecting public health from climate change since the agreements in Parma and the World Health Assembly Resolution in 2008.
Microbial Community Structures and Dynamics in the O3/BAC Drinking Water Treatment Process
Authors: Tian Jian , Lu Jun , Zhang Yu , Li Jian-Cheng , Sun Li-Chen , Hu Zhang-Li
Published: June 2014

Effectiveness of drinking water treatment, in particular pathogen control during the water treatment process, is always a major public health concern. In this investigation, the application of PCR-DGGE technology to the analysis of microbial community structures and dynamics in the drinking water treatment process revealed several dominant microbial populations including: α-Proteobacteria, β-Proteobacteria, γ-Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria Firmicutes and Cyanobacteria. α-Proteobacteria and β-Proteobacteria were the dominant bacteria during the whole process. Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were the dominant bacteria before and after treatment, respectively. Firmicutes showed season-dependent changes in population dynamics. Importantly, γ-Proteobacteria, which is a class of medically important bacteria, was well controlled by the O3/biological activated carbon (BAC) treatment, resulting in improved effluent water bio-safety.
Evaluating Determinants of Environmental Risk Perception for Risk Management in Contaminated Sites
Authors: Janmaimool Piyapong , Watanabe Tsunemi
Published: June 2014

Understanding the differences in the risk judgments of residents of industrial communities potentially provides insights into how to develop appropriate risk communication strategies. This study aimed to explore citizens’ fundamental understanding of risk-related judgments and to identify the factors contributing to perceived risks. An exploratory model was created to investigate the public’s risk judgments. In this model, the relationship between laypeople’s perceived risks and the factors related to the physical nature of risks (such as perceived probability of environmental contamination, probability of receiving impacts, and severity of catastrophic consequences) were examined by means of multiple regression analysis. Psychological factors, such as the ability to control the risks, concerns, experiences, and perceived benefits of industrial development were also included in the analysis. The Maptaphut industrial area in Rayong Province, Thailand was selected as a case study. A survey of 181 residents of communities experiencing different levels of hazardous gas contamination revealed rational risk judgments by inhabitants of high-risk and moderate-risk communities, based on their perceived probability of contamination, probability of receiving impacts, and perceived catastrophic consequences. However, risks assessed by people in low-risk communities could not be rationally explained and were influenced by their collective experiences.
High-Salt Intake Suppressed MicroRNA-133a Expression in Dahl SS Rat Myocardium
Authors: Guo Tong-Shuai , Zhang Jie , Mu Jian-Jun , Liu Fu-Qiang , Yuan Zu-Yi , Ren Ke-Yu , Wang Dan
Published: June 2014

Salt-sensitive individuals show earlier and more serious cardiac damage than nonsalt-sensitive ones. Some studies have suggested that microRNA-133a could reduce cardiac hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis. The current study aims to investigate the different functions of high-salt intake on salt-sensitive (SS) rats and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and the involvement of microRNA-133a in these roles. After high-salt intervention, the left ventricular mass (LVW) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) of the salt-sensitive high salt (SHS) group were obviously higher than those of the salt-sensitive low salt (SLS) group. However, the difference between the Sprague-Dawley high salt (DHS) group and the Sprague-Dawley low salt (DLS) group was not significant. Compared with SLS group, collagen I and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in the heart of SHS group were significantly higher, whereas no statistical difference was observed between the DHS group and the DLS group. Compared with low-salt diet, microRNA-133a in the heart of both strains were significantly decreased, but that in the SHS group decreased more significantly. These results suggest that high salt intervention could down-regulate the expression of myocardial microRNA-133a, which may be one of the mechanisms involved in myocardial fibrosis in salt-sensitive hypertension.
Comparisons of Non-Gaussian Statistical Models in DNA Methylation Analysis
Authors: Ma Zhanyu , Teschendorff Andrew , Yu Hong , Taghia Jalil , Guo Jun
Published: June 2014

As a key regulatory mechanism of gene expression, DNA methylation patterns are widely altered in many complex genetic diseases, including cancer. DNA methylation is naturally quantified by bounded support data; therefore, it is non-Gaussian distributed. In order to capture such properties, we introduce some non-Gaussian statistical models to perform dimension reduction on DNA methylation data. Afterwards, non-Gaussian statistical model-based unsupervised clustering strategies are applied to cluster the data. Comparisons and analysis of different dimension reduction strategies and unsupervised clustering methods are presented. Experimental results show that the non-Gaussian statistical model-based methods are superior to the conventional Gaussian distribution-based method. They are meaningful tools for DNA methylation analysis. Moreover, among several non-Gaussian methods, the one that captures the bounded nature of DNA methylation data reveals the best clustering performance.
A Counterfactual Impact Analysis of Fair Use Policy on Copyright Related Industries in Singapore
Authors: Ghafele Roya , Gibert Benjamin
Published: June 2014

Are more flexible fair use approaches, which require a test for determining whether new uses should be permitted, correlated with economic growth? Using the example of Singapore, we assess the extent to which fair use is related with growth in private copying technology and copyright markets. With reference to a differences-in-differences (DiD) methodology applied to the 2005 fair use amendments of the Singapore Copyright Act we test the law’s implications on private copying technology and copyright sectors in Singapore. The modifications of the Singapore Copyright Act were part of a set of changes of its Intellectual Property (IP) laws undertaken in the context of a Free Trade Agreement with the United States. Our findings seem to support the hypothesis that a more flexible fair use policy is correlated with faster growth rates in private copying technology industries. However, the counterfactual impact analysis did not support our second hypothesis, that flexible fair use policy would be correlated with higher growth in the copyright industries (indirectly via the growth of private copying technology industries). Thus, while the growth of copyright industries slowed down to a limited extent after 2005, the industrial group did not experience the degree of negative impact we expected. Moreover, this limited negative impact was offset by the positive impact of fair use policy correlated with higher growth in private copying technology industries. We caution that a counterfactual analysis cannot be used to attribute a causal relationship. It can only establish a correlation between a policy and a given outcome. Our findings must be read in this light. Further research, containing more comprehensive data sets and possibly also singling out international trade aspects, would benefit the debate on the interplay of copyright law and economic growth.
Bioresolution Production of (2R,3S)-Ethyl-3-phenylglycidate for Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of the Taxol C-13 Side Chain by Galactomyces geotrichum ZJUTZQ200, a New Epoxide-Hydrolase-Producing Strain
Authors: Wei Chun , Ling Jinlong , Shen Honglei , Zhu Qing
Published: June 2014

A newly isolated Galactomyces geotrichum ZJUTZQ200 strain containing an epoxide hydrolase was used to resolve racemic ethyl 3-phenylglycidate (rac-EPG) for producing (2R,3S)-ethyl-3-phenylglycidate ((2R,3S)-EPG). G. geotrichum ZJUTZQ200 was verified to be able to afford high enantioselectivity in whole cell catalyzed synthesis of this chiral phenylglycidate synthon. After the optimization of the enzymatic production and bioresolution conditions, (2R,3S)-EPG was afforded with high enantioselectivity (e.e.S > 99%, E > 49) after a 8 h reaction. The co-solvents, pH buffer solutions and substrate/cell ratio were found to have significant influences on the bioresolution properties of G. geotrichum ZJUTZQ200. Based on the bioresolution product (2R,3S)-EPG, taxol’s side chain ethyl (2R,3S)-3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate was successfully synthesized by a chemoenzymatic route with high enantioselectivity (e.e.S > 95%).
Biological Effects of Clinically Relevant CoCr Nanoparticles in the Dura Mater: An Organ Culture Study
Authors: Papageorgiou Iraklis , Abberton Thomas , Fuller Martin , Tipper Joanne , Fisher John , Ingham Eileen
Published: June 2014

Medical interventions for the treatment of spinal disc degeneration include total disc replacement and fusion devices. There are, however, concerns regarding the generation of wear particles by these devices, the majority of which are in the nanometre sized range with the potential to cause adverse biological effects in the surrounding tissues. The aims of this study were to develop an organ culture model of the porcine dura mater and to investigate the biological effects of CoCr nanoparticles in this model. A range of histological techniques were used to analyse the structure of the tissue in the organ culture. The biological effects of the CoCr wear particles and the subsequent structural changes were assessed using tissue viability assays, cytokine assays, histology, immunohistochemistry, and TEM imaging. The physiological structure of the dura mater remained unchanged during the seven days of in vitro culture. There was no significant loss of cell viability. After exposure of the organ culture to CoCr nanoparticles, there was significant loosening of the epithelial layer, as well as the underlying collagen matrix. TEM imaging confirmed these structural alterations. These structural alterations were attributed to the production of MMP-1, -3, -9, -13, and TIMP-1. ELISA analysis revealed that there was significant release of cytokines including IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α, ECP and also the matrix protein, tenascin-C. This study suggested that CoCr nanoparticles did not cause cytotoxicity in the dura mater but they caused significant alterations to its structural integrity that could lead to significant secondary effects due to nanoparticle penetration, such as inflammation to the local neural tissue.
The Role of FADS1/2 Polymorphisms on Cardiometabolic Markers and Fatty Acid Profiles in Young Adults Consuming Fish Oil Supplements
Authors: Roke Kaitlin , Mutch David
Published: June 2014

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids (FAs) known to influence cardiometabolic markers of health. Evidence suggests that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the fatty acid desaturase 1 and 2 (FADS1/2) gene cluster may influence an individual’s response to n-3 FAs. This study examined the impact of a moderate daily dose of EPA and DHA fish oil supplements on cardiometabolic markers, FA levels in serum and red blood cells (RBC), and whether these endpoints were influenced by SNPs in FADS1/2. Young adults consumed fish oil supplements (1.8 g total EPA/DHA per day) for 12 weeks followed by an 8-week washout period. Serum and RBC FA profiles were analyzed every two weeks by gas chromatography. Two SNPs were genotyped: rs174537 in FADS1 and rs174576 in FADS2. Participants had significantly reduced levels of blood triglycerides (−13%) and glucose (–11%) by week 12; however, these benefits were lost during the washout period. EPA and DHA levels increased significantly in serum (+250% and +51%, respectively) and RBCs (+132% and +18%, respectively) within the first two weeks of supplementation and remained elevated throughout the 12-week period. EPA and DHA levels in RBCs only (not serum) remained significantly elevated (+37% and +24%, respectively) after the washout period. Minor allele carriers for both SNPs experienced greater increases in RBC EPA levels during supplementation; suggesting that genetic variation at this locus can influence an individual’s response to fish oil supplements.
The Effect of Salt on the Complex Coacervation of Vinyl Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Perry Sarah , Li Yue , Priftis Dimitrios , Leon Lorraine , Tirrell Matthew
Published: June 2014

Complex coacervation is an electrostatically-driven phase separation phenomenon that is utilized in a wide range of everyday applications and is of great interest for the creation of self-assembled materials. Here, we utilized turbidity to characterize the effect of salt type on coacervate formation using two vinyl polyelectrolytes, poly(acrylic acid sodium salt) (pAA) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (pAH), as simple models for industrial and biological coacervates. We confirmed the dominant role of salt valence on the extent of coacervate formation, while demonstrating the presence of significant secondary effects, which can be described by Hofmeister-like behavior. These results revealed the importance of ion-specific interactions, which are crucial for the informed design of coacervate-based materials for use in complex ionic environments, and can enable more detailed theoretical investigations on the role of subtle electrostatic and thermodynamic effects in complex coacervation.
A Bayesian Based Method to Generate a Synergetic Land-Cover Map from Existing Land-Cover Products
Authors: Xu Guang , Zhang Hairong , Chen Baozhang , Zhang Huifang , Yan Jianwu , Chen Jing , Che Mingliang , Lin Xiaofeng , Dou Xianming
Published: June 2014

Global land cover is an important parameter of the land surface and has been derived by various researchers based on remote sensing images. Each land cover product has its own disadvantages and limitations. Data fusion technology is becoming a notable method to fully integrate existing land cover information. In this paper, we developed a method to generate a synergetic global land cover map (synGLC) based on Bayes theorem. A state probability vector was defined to precisely and quantitatively describe the land cover classification of every pixel and reduce the errors caused by legends harmonization and spatial resampling. Simple axiomatic approaches were used to generate the prior land cover map, in which pixels with high consistency were regarded to be correct and then used as benchmark to obtain posterior land cover map. Validation results show that our hybrid land cover map (synGLC, the dataset is available on request) has the best overall performance compared with the existing global land cover products. Closed shrub-lands and permanent wetlands have the highest uncertainty in our fused land cover map. This novel method can be extensively applied to fusion of land cover maps with different legends, spatial resolutions or geographic ranges.
Organization of Laundry Facility Types and Energy Use in Owner-Occupied Multi-Family Buildings in Sweden
Authors: Borg Lena , Högberg Lovisa
Published: June 2014

The way in which we plan and produce buildings today will influence our energy consumption in the future. This paper explores how the types of laundry facilities provided in owner-occupied multi-family buildings in Sweden have changed since the 1990s and seeks to draw attention to how this may impact energy consumption for laundry. Three factors are analyzed that influence energy consumption: the number of laundry appliances, energy performance in laundry appliances and user demand for laundry. The results indicate that there has been a change in building practices, from the domination of communal laundry rooms towards in-unit laundry facilities. The findings imply that the changes in provision of laundry facilities increase the number of appliances but do not necessarily increase energy consumption during the usage phase depending on energy performance and user behavior. Thus, developers should consider laundry facility organization when designing multi-family buildings in order to optimize the use of space and resources, given user demand and building regulations. This paper is exploratory in nature and indicates a shift in building practices that up until now has been undocumented in a research context which in turn opens up for many new research questions related to resource use but also related to the economics of developers, housing firms and households.
The Carbon Subsidy Analysis in Remanufacturing Closed-Loop Supply Chain
Authors: Li Jian , Du Weihao , Yang Fengmei , Hua Guowei
Published: June 2014

Carbon subsidy is an important measure for the government to encourage enterprises to reduce carbon emission. This paper analyzes the impact of carbon subsidy on remanufacturing closed-loop supply chain (RCLSC). We explore the profits and the carbon emission quantities of three types of a supply chain: forward supply chain, remanufacturing closed-loop supply chain, and RCLSC with the carbon subsidy. This paper also discusses when and how the government implements the policy of carbon subsidy to encourage an enterprises’ behavior of cutting carbon emission from the view of RCLSC. We provide the close form of the conditions under which the government should implement the carbon subsidy strategy and the carbon subsidy of government could increase the profits of agents of the supply chain and deduce the carbon emission of the whole supply chain simultaneously. It is found that the government should implement the carbon subsidy strategy only when the recycling price is within a certain range, and the carbon subsidy of government should be within a reasonable range.
Water Footprint and Impact of Water Consumption for Food, Feed, Fuel Crops Production in Thailand
Authors: Gheewala Shabbir , Silalertruksa Thapat , Nilsalab Pariyapat , Mungkung Rattanawan , Perret Sylvain , Chaiyawannakarn Nuttapon
Published: June 2014

The proliferation of food, feed and biofuels demands promises to increase pressure on water competition and stress, particularly for Thailand, which has a large agricultural base. This study assesses the water footprint of ten staple crops grown in different regions across the country and evaluates the impact of crop water use in different regions/watersheds by the water stress index and the indication of water deprivation potential. The ten crops include major rice, second rice, maize, soybean, mungbean, peanut, cassava, sugarcane, pineapple and oil palm. The water stress index of the 25 major watersheds in Thailand has been evaluated. The results show that there are high variations of crop water requirements grown in different regions due to many factors. However, based on the current cropping systems, the Northeastern region has the highest water requirement for both green water (or rain water) and blue water (or irrigation water). Rice (paddy) farming requires the highest amount of irrigation water, i.e., around 10,489 million m3/year followed by the maize, sugarcane, oil palm and cassava. Major rice cultivation induces the highest water deprivation, i.e., 1862 million m3H2Oeq/year; followed by sugarcane, second rice and cassava. The watersheds that have high risk on water competition due to increase in production of the ten crops considered are the Mun, Chi and Chao Phraya watersheds. The main contribution is from the second rice cultivation. Recommendations have been proposed for sustainable crops production in the future.
Designing Events for Social Interaction
Authors: Nordvall Anders , Pettersson Robert , Svensson Bo , Brown Steve
Published: June 2014

Socialization motivates people to visit events and social interactions between event visitors influence their experience of the event. Consumer-to-consumer interactions in service settings and leisure activities have received increased attention in research; however, very few studies
have focused on and analyzed the impact of other visitors on an individual's event experience. The purpose of this study is to explore how interaction between event visitors influences the individual's total event experience and how events can be designed in respect to such social interactions.
The conclusions are based on a literature review and empirical data collected at a Swedish music festival. The research found that social interactions between event visitors are an important part of the event experience and the level of satisfaction for the individual attending an event.
Social interactions consist of three main types: known-group socialization; external socialization; audience socialization. Every part of the event (theme and program, setting, consumables, service) can be designed to facilitate positive experiences and to constrain negative experiences related
to such interactions.
Predicting Volunteers' Intention to Return: An Examination of Brand Personality, Prestige, and Identification of Sporting Events
Authors: Bang Hyejin , Lee Soonhwan , Swart Kamilla
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship among four variables: brand personality traits, prestige of a sporting event, brand identification, and individuals' intention to return to volunteer for future sporting events. Five personality traits were included in the study:
sincerity, excitement, competence, sophistication, and ruggedness. A proposed conceptual model was developed and tested with a sample of volunteers at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Two hundred twenty-four individuals participated in a self-administered questionnaire during the event.
Results from structural equation model analysis showed that three brand personality dimensions—sincerity, competence, and sophistication—were associated with individuals' prestige of the sporting event. Furthermore, event prestige positively influenced brand identification, which
had a positive impact on volunteers' intention to return for volunteering.
Subject Areas and Future Research Agendas in Exhibition Research: Exhibitors' Perspectives
Authors: Lee Myong Jae , Kang Yong Soo
Published: June 2014

Over the last two decades, exhibitions have drawn serious attention from researchers in tourism and general trade and management. This article identifies main research trends in current exhibition research and sets directions for future exhibition research through the content analysis
of extant exhibition literatures. A total of 55 exhibition articles published in academic journals during the last two decades were collected for this thematic review. Thorough review of these publications highlighted several research themes in exhibition research. The research themes discussed
in this article focus on exhibitors: (1) the role of exhibitions, (2) motives for exhibition participation, (3) exhibition participation process, and (4) exhibition service marketing. Based on the results of the thematic review, we make recommendations for future exhibition research.
Attributes Influencing Meeting Planners' Destination Selection: A Case of Orlando, Florida
Authors: Hayat Adi , Severt Kimberly , Breiter Deborah , Nusair Khaldoon , Okumus Fevzi
Published: June 2014

The current study used Orlando, Florida as a case study, and investigated whether there are differences between the three meeting planner types (association, corporate, third party) in regard to destination selection attributes. The study further identified attributes that affect future
bookings to Orlando. Data were collected from a nationwide survey of meeting planners with a usable sample of 2,388 completed phone surveys and 118 completed online questionnaires. One significant difference was found between the three meeting planner types. This research was performed in
the midst of the recent recession and explored the impact the recession has had on planning meetings. Some effects of the economic downturn on the events industry are decreased attendance and more conservative budgets. Most association meeting planners did not cancel or postponed their events,
although all planners agree that attendance to their meetings decreased. Third-party planners seemed to be the most sensitive to budget allocations.
Ischemic Digital Ulcers Affect Hand Disability and Pain in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Mouthon Luc , Carpentier Patrick H. , Lok Catherine , Clerson Pierre , Gressin Virginie , Hachulla Eric , Bérezné Alice , Diot Elisabeth , Khau Van Kien Aurélie , Jego Patrick , Agard Christian , Duval-Modeste Anne Bénédicte , Sparsa Agnès , Puzenat Eve , Richard Marie-Aleth ,   on behalf of the ECLIPSE Study Investigators
Published: June 2014

Objective.

Ischemic digital ulcers (DU) are frequent and severe complications of systemic sclerosis (SSc). The purpose of our study was to assess the effect of DU on hand disability and pain in patients with SSc.

Methods.

The Evaluation of the Impact of Recurrent Ischemic DU on Hand Disability in Patients with SSc (ECLIPSE) is a prospective, multicenter, noninterventional study with a 2-year followup. Patients with SSc who experienced at least 1 DU in the previous year and received bosentan therapy were included between October 2009 and March 2011. This cohort is described at the time of inclusion.

Results.

There were 190 patients (132 females) from 53 centers. Mean age ± SD was 43 ± 15 years at SSc diagnosis and 53 ± 15 years at inclusion. In 105 patients (56.2%), DU were the first non-Raynaud symptoms of SSc. The mean time interval between the occurrence of Raynaud phenomenon and the first DU episode was 6.6 ± 9.1 years. The mean numbers of active DU and fingers affected per patient for both hands were 2.3 ± 1.8 and 2.2 ± 1.6, respectively. Presence of active DU at inclusion was significantly associated with pain and impaired hand function: Visual Analog Scale for pain (0 to 10) was 6.2 ± 2.6 versus 2.5 ± 2.4 (p < 0.0001) and Cochin Hand Function Scale for hand disability (0 to 90) was 38 ± 20 versus 25 ± 19 (p < 0.0001), respectively.

Conclusion.

DU represent a major sign of SSc, often affecting multiple fingers and both hands. They are significantly associated with pain and hand disability.