bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cleaner Routes for Friedel-Crafts Acylation
Authors: Aribert Nicolas , Camy Severine , Peres Lucchese Yolande , Condoret Jean-Stéphane , Cognet Patrick
Published: March 2010

Friedel-Crafts acylation is among the most fundamental and useful reactions to yield aromatic ketones but it is one of the less acceptable in terms of unwanted polluting by-products or atom economy because of the overconsumption of catalyst which is used in stoichiometric quantities in the conventional process. This route is nevertheless widely used in the fine chemical industry.In recent years, awareness of the impact of industrial activities on the environment has led chemists to work on new chemical routes, less dangerous and more environmentally friendly.We considered here the acylation of a benzofurane derivative by an acyl chloride, as an intermediary step for a pharmaceutical product. In this study, one of the first alternatives was to replace conventional catalysts (FeCl3 or AlCl3), by reusable solid catalysts. Indeed, a wide variety of new solid catalysts, more efficient and less polluting, has now emerged (zeolites, ion-exchange resins). In this work, these catalysts were first tested in conventional conditions, i.e., using an organic solvent (1,2-dichlorobenzene in our case), to determine the best one, in terms of reactivity, lifetime and reusability. The zeolite Y was found the most appropriate.However, the use of an organic solvent still remains questionable and the use of supercritical carbon dioxide as the solvent was also considered. Its inherent properties include non-flammability, mild critical conditions, tuneable solubility near to the critical point and very low environmental impact. The reaction was operated using a continuous high pressure fixed bed. Results concerning yield and selectivity are presented.
Separation and Hydrodynamic Performance of Air-Kerosene-Water System by Bubble Column
Authors: Sulaymon Abbas H. , Mohammed Ahmed Abed
Published: March 2010

The separation of emulsified kerosene in water (concentration 250-750ppm) was investigated in a bubble column15.6 cm diameter and 120 cm height. The effective behaviors of bubble characteristics (bubble diameter, bubble rise velocity and air hold-up) on the removal efficiency were measured by electroresistivity probe. The effects of kerosene concentration, air flow rate,bubble diameter, liquid height, liquid viscosity, NaCl concentration, and alum on the removal rate were found. The experimental results showed that the removal efficiency increased with increasing air flow rate (1.09-2.6cm/s) and decreased with increasing CMC concentration. The results also showed that adding anionic surfactants (SLES and SDBS) leads to increase removal rate. The the flotation process was found to be first order kinetics. New correlations of air holdup and bubble diameter using dimensionless groups were derived.
Experiments on Enhanced Heat Transfer of Self-Exciting Mode Oscillating-Flow Heat Pipe with Non-Uniform Structure
Authors: Shang Fu-Min , Liu Deng-Ying , Xian Hai-Zhen , Liu Jian-Hong , Chen Guo-Hua
Published: March 2010

Experiments were performed on a closed loop self-exciting mode oscillating flow heat pipe (SEMOS HP) with uniform and non-uniform structures under the same tested conditions. The heat transfer characteristics are analyzed by comparing the temperature of wall of the heat pipe and output power when the heat input of the electric heating board and heating position are changed. The result shows that the heat transfer rate could be improved by using a non-uniform structure under low or middle heat input, and it gives the highest heat transfer performance when the non-uniform diameter section is at the bottom of the heat pipe and the heating source located below the non-uniform section.
Microencapsulation of Gram-Negative Bacteria by Spray Drying
Authors: Yu Caiyuan , Han Dongdong , Wang Wei
Published: March 2010

This paper presents an experimental study on the preparation of gram-negative bacteria microcapsules by spray drying. Effects of operating conditions on the bacteria survival rate were examined by single factor analysis. Through orthogonal experiment, appropriate conditions were determined as 160°C of the inlet air temperature, 12.5 ml/min of the feed flow rate, 1:9 of the ratio between gum arabic and maltodextrin, and 50 ml of fluid nutrient medium with the bacteria. The bacteria survival rate reaches 84.57% associated with above conditions. Examination of storage performance shows that after preserving in plastic film bag for 6 months under ambient temperature from 18°C to 30°C, quantity of the viable gram-negative bacteria was increased by 148%, which was significantly improved compared to those inoculated from laboratory.
Effect of Endogenous GLP-1 on Insulin Secretion in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Salehi Marzieh , Aulinger Benedict , Prigeon Ronald L. , D'Alessio David A.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

The incretins glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) account for up to 60% of postprandial insulin release in healthy people. Previous studies showed a reduced incretin effect in patients with type 2 diabetes but a robust response to exogenous GLP-1. The primary goal of this study was to determine whether endogenous GLP-1 regulates insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Twelve patients with well-controlled type 2 diabetes and eight matched nondiabetic subjects consumed a breakfast meal containing d-xylose during fixed hyperglycemia at 5 mmol/l above fasting levels. Studies were repeated, once with infusion of the GLP-1 receptor antagonist, exendin-(9–39) (Ex-9), and once with saline.

RESULTS

The relative increase in insulin secretion after meal ingestion was comparable in diabetic and nondiabetic groups (44 ± 4% vs. 47 ± 7%). Blocking the action of GLP-1 suppressed postprandial insulin secretion similarly in the diabetic and nondiabetic subjects (25 ± 4% vs. 27 ± 8%). However, Ex-9 also reduced the insulin response to intravenous glucose (25 ± 5% vs. 26 ± 7%; diabetic vs. nondiabetic subjects), when plasma GLP-1 levels were undetectable. The appearance of postprandial ingested d-xylose in the blood was not affected by Ex-9.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that in patients with well-controlled diabetes, the relative effects of enteral stimuli and endogenous GLP-1 to enhance insulin release are retained and comparable with those in nondiabetic subjects. Surprisingly, GLP-1 receptor signaling promotes glucose-stimulated insulin secretion independent of the mode of glucose entry. Based on rates of d-xylose absorption, GLP-1 receptor blockade did not affect gastric emptying of a solid meal.
Novel Assay of Metformin Levels in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Varying Levels of Renal Function
Authors: Frid Anders , Sterner Gunnar N. , Löndahl Magnus , Wiklander Clara , Cato Anne , Vinge Ellen , Andersson Anders
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To study trough levels of metformin in serum and its intra-individual variation in patients using a newly developed assay.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Trough serum levels of metformin were measured once using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LCMSMS) in 137 type 2 diabetic patients with varying renal function (99 men) and followed repeatedly during 2 months in 20 patients (16 men) with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 body surface.

RESULTS

Patients with eGFR >60, 30–60, and <30 ml/min/1.73 m2 had median trough metformin concentrations of 4.5 μmol/l (range 0.1–20.7, n = 107), 7.71 μmol/l (0.12–15.15, n = 21), and 8.88 μmol/l (5.99–18.60, n = 9), respectively. The median intra-individual overall coefficient of variation was 29.4% (range 9.8–74.2).

CONCLUSIONS

Determination of serum metformin with the LCMSMS technique is useful in patients on metformin treatment. Few patients had values >20 μmol/l. Metformin measurement is less suitable for dose titration.
Evaluation of an Algorithm to Guide Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Treated With Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion on How to Respond to Real-Time Continuous Glucose Levels
Authors: Jenkins Alicia J. , Krishnamurthy Balasubramanium , Best James D. , Cameron Fergus J. , Colman Peter G. , Farish Steven , Hamblin Peter S. , O'Connell Michele A. , Rodda Christine , Rowley Kevin , Teede Helena , O'Neal David N.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate an algorithm guiding responses of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII)–treated type 1 diabetic patients using real-time continuous glucose monitoring (RT-CGM).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Sixty CSII-treated type 1 diabetic participants (aged 13–70 years, including adult and adolescent subgroups, with A1C ≤9.5%) were randomized in age-, sex-, and A1C-matched pairs. Phase 1 was an open 16-week multicenter randomized controlled trial. Group A was treated with CSII/RT-CGM with the algorithm, and group B was treated with CSII/RT-CGM without the algorithm. The primary outcome was the difference in time in target (4–10 mmol/l) glucose range on 6-day masked CGM. Secondary outcomes were differences in A1C, low (≤3.9 mmol/l) glucose CGM time, and glycemic variability. Phase 2 was the week 16–32 follow-up. Group A was returned to usual care, and group B was provided with the algorithm. Glycemia parameters were as above. Comparisons were made between baseline and 16 weeks and 32 weeks.

RESULTS

In phase 1, after withdrawals 29 of 30 subjects were left in group A and 28 of 30 subjects were left in group B. The change in target glucose time did not differ between groups. A1C fell (mean 7.9% [95% CI 7.7–8.2to 7.6% [7.2–8.0]; P < 0.03) in group A but not in group B (7.8% [7.5–8.1] to 7.7 [7.3–8.0]; NS) with no difference between groups. More subjects in group A achieved A1C ≤7% than those in group B (2 of 29 to 14 of 29 vs. 4 of 28 to 7 of 28; P = 0.015). In phase 2, one participant was lost from each group. In group A, A1C returned to baseline with RT-CGM discontinuation but did not change in group B, who continued RT-CGM with addition of the algorithm.

CONCLUSIONS

Early but not late algorithm provision to type 1 diabetic patients using CSII/RT-CGM did not increase the target glucose time but increased achievement of A1C ≤7%. Upon RT-CGM cessation, A1C returned to baseline.
Long-Term Trends in Cardiorespiratory Fitness and the Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Sawada Susumu S. , Lee I.-Min , Naito Hisashi , Noguchi Jun , Tsukamoto Koji , Muto Takashi , Higaki Yasuki , Tanaka Hiroaki , Blair Steven N.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

Whereas single assessments of cardiorespiratory fitness have been shown to predict lower incidence of type 2 diabetes, there are no data on long-term trends in fitness and risk. We investigated the relationship between long-term trends in fitness and the incidence of type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A cohort of 4,187 Japanese men free of diabetes completed annual health checkups and fitness tests for estimated maximal oxygen uptake at least four times over 7 years (1979–1985). We modeled the trend in fitness over 7 years for each man using simple linear regression. Men were then divided into quartiles based on the regression coefficient (slope) from the model. During the follow-up period (1985–1999), 274 men developed diabetes. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for the incidence of diabetes were obtained using the Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

Men in the lowest quartile of the distribution decreased in fitness over the 7 years (median slope −1.25 ml/kg/min), whereas men in the highest quartile increased in fitness (median slope 1.33 ml/kg/min). With adjustment for age, initial fitness level, BMI, systolic blood pressure, cigarette smoking, alcohol intake, and a family history of diabetes and use of the lowest quartile, the HRs (95% CI) for the second through fourth quartiles were 0.64 (0.46–0.89), 0.40 (0.27–0.58), and 0.33 (0.21–0.50), respectively (Ptrend < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that the long-term trend in fitness is a strong predictor of the incidence of type 2 diabetes in Japanese men.
DURATION-1: Exenatide Once Weekly Produces Sustained Glycemic Control and Weight Loss Over 52 Weeks
Authors: Buse John B. , Drucker Daniel J. , Taylor Kristin L. , Kim Terri , Walsh Brandon , Hu Hao , Wilhelm Ken , Trautmann Michael , Shen Larry Z. , Porter Lisa E. ,   for the DURATION-1 Study Group
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

In the Diabetes Therapy Utilization: Researching Changes in A1C, Weight and Other Factors Through Intervention with Exenatide Once Weekly (DURATION-1) study, the safety and efficacy of 30 weeks of treatment with the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist exenatide once weekly (exenatide QW; 2 mg) was compared with exenatide BID in 295 patients with type 2 diabetes. We now report the safety and efficacy of exenatide QW in 1) patients who continued treatment for an additional 22 weeks (52 weeks total) and 2) patients who switched from exenatide BID to exenatide QW after 30 weeks.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this randomized, multicenter, comparator-controlled, open-label trial, 258 patients entered the 22-week open-ended assessment phase (n = 128 QW-only; n = 130 BID→QW). A1C, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), body weight, blood pressure, fasting lipids, safety, and tolerability were assessed.

RESULTS

Patients continuing exenatide QW maintained A1C improvements through 52 weeks (least squares mean −2.0% [95% CI −2.1 to −1.8%]). Patients switching from exenatide BID to exenatide QW achieved further A1C improvements; both groups exhibited the same A1C reduction and mean A1C (6.6%) at week 52. At week 52, 71 and 54% of all patients achieved A1C <7.0% and ≤6.5%, respectively. In both treatment arms, FPG was reduced by >40 mg/dl, and body weight was reduced by >4 kg after 52 weeks. Nausea occurred less frequently in this assessment period and was predominantly mild. No major hypoglycemia was observed.

CONCLUSION

Exenatide QW elicited sustained improvements in glycemic control and body weight through 52 weeks of treatment. Patients switching to exenatide QW experienced further improvements in A1C and FPG, with sustained weight loss.
Variation of Interstitial Glucose Measurements Assessed by Continuous Glucose Monitors in Healthy, Nondiabetic Individuals
Authors:   Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Continuous Glucose Monitoring Study Group
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To characterize glucose levels during daily living using continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in nondiabetic individuals.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Seventy-four healthy children, adolescents, and adults aged 9–65 years with normal glucose tolerance used a blinded CGM device for 3 to 7 days.

RESULTS

Sensor glucose concentrations were 71–120 mg/dl for 91% of the day. Sensor values were ≤60 or >140 mg/dl for only 0.2% and 0.4% of the day, respectively. Sensor glucose concentrations were slightly higher in children than adults (P = 0.009) and were slightly lower during the night than day (95 vs. 99 mg/dl, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Glucose values ≤60 and >140 mg/dl, measured with CGM, are uncommon in healthy, nondiabetic individuals. CGM may be useful to evaluate glucose tolerance in nondiabetic individuals over time. Furthermore, these data provide a basis for comparison for studies that use CGM to assess glucose control in subjects with diabetes.
Day-to-Day Variation of Insulin Requirements of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and End-Stage Renal Disease Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Sobngwi Eugene , Enoru Sostanie , Ashuntantang Gloria , Azabji-Kenfack Marcel , Dehayem Mesmin , Onana Arnold , Biwole Daniel , Kaze François , Gautier Jean-François , Mbanya Jean-Claude
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate day-to-day variations of insulin needs in type 2 diabetic patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on maintenance hemodialysis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We developed a 24-h euglycemic clamp in patients who received an average of 2,200 calories in a standardized three-meal and two-snack regimen per day, adjusted to body size and sex. Intravenous insulin was adjusted every 30 min to achieve 5.5 ± 1.1 mmol/l glycemia over 24 h prehemodialysis, during hemodialysis session, and 24 h posthemodialysis in 10 type 2 diabetic patients, aged 55.7 ± 8.7 years with 11.9 ± 4.5 years diabetes duration, undergoing maintenance hemodialysis for 2.3 ± 2.3 years. Insulin requirements were derived from the dose of insulin administered to maintain euglycemia per period of time and day-to-day comparisons performed.

RESULTS

Mean capillary glycemia was 5.5 ± 0.3 mmol/l prehemodialysis and 5.3 ± 0.2 mmol/l posthemodialysis (P = 0.39). Pre- and posthemodialysis areas under the glucose curve were comparable. This was achieved by infusing 23.6 ± 7.7 IU/24 h prehemodialysis vs. 19.9 ± 4.9 IU/24 h posthemodialysis, indicating a 15.3% decrease posthemodialysis (P = 0.09). Basal insulin needs decreased from 0.4 ± 0.1/h prehemodialysis to 0.3 ± 0.1/h posthemodialysis (P = 0.01). Total boluses were decreased by 2.2 ± 3.1 IU (P = 0.15). Changes in blood urea did not correlate with changes in insulin needs (r = 0.1, P = 0.79).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study has demonstrated a significant 25% reduction in basal insulin requirements the day after dialysis compared with the day before. No significant change in boluses was observed, and overall the reduction of total insulin requirements was −15% equivalent to −4 IU/day posthemodialysis of marginal statistical significance.
Detecting birds and estimating their velocity vectors by means of MRL-5 meteorological radar
Authors: Dinevich Leonid , Leshem Yosi , Pinsky Mark , Sterkin Alexander
Published: March 2010

Detecting birds and estimating their velocity vectors by means of MRL-5 meteorological radar

The computerised bird monitoring system devised on the basis of MRL-5 meteorological radar enables to perform around-the-clock automated bird monitoring. The paper presents an algorithm for identifying bird signals against a background of other objects. The radar signal reflected from a flying bird changes its location in space. In case the flight direction remains unchanged, the coordinates of the corresponding radio echoes obtained as a result of successive azimuth scans form a straight line. This enables to isolate bird radio echoes from those of motionless or chaotically moving objects, such as ground clutter, clouds, precipitation, atmospheric inhomogeneities, etc. In the proposed algorithm, the coordinates thus obtained are used for estimation of vectors of individual birds and bird groups.

In order to identify a bird signal, its fluctuation pattern is analysed. A fluctuation pattern is determined by the frequency of wing-flapping that is characteristic of a certain bird species. The analysis of the spectra of signals obtained in the study indicates that the proposed algorithm enables to isolate bird radio echoes with approximately 85% confidence. The technique implying simultaneous measurements of signal fluctuation pattern and of the effective scattering area (ESA) forms a promising basis for further studies aimed at determining the species of flying birds by means of radar.
Observer error in measurements of nestling wing length in small passerines
Authors: Kania Wojciech
Published: March 2010

Observer error in measurements of nestling wing length in small passerines

Wing lengths of nestlings of Great Tit Parus major, Blue Tit P. caeruleus and Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca measured by one observer (WK) were compared with the measurements taken concurrently by one of 30 other observers. In total 1321 pairs of measurements were analysed. The differences between the measurers were found to: (1) depend on wing length; (2) vary between distinct wing-length classes and species; (3) be bigger in the case of inexperienced measurers (4) be small, only exceeding ± 1 mm in 7% cases and ± 2 mm in 0.5% cases. Such small measurement errors did not significantly bias the wing-length-based age estimation. The average differences between the age estimates derived from wing length taken by WK and other experienced measurers ranged from -0.3 to +0.3 day for various measurers, species and wing-length classes when 1-3 day-old nestlings (1-5 day-old in Blue Tit) were excluded. For the latter nestlings as well as for inexperienced measurers that range was -0.4-. +0.8 day.
Bird migration study-site Siemianówka (E Poland) in 2002-2003
Authors: Polakowski Michał , Broniszewska Monika , Krasnodębska Alicja , Tumiel Tomasz , Wnorowska Anna
Published: March 2010

Bird migration study-site Siemianówka (E Poland) in 2002-2003
Variability in expression of male fertility in triticale (Xtriticosecale wittmack) with Triticum timopheevi cytoplasm
Authors: Góral Halina , Tyrka Mirosław , Stojałowski Stefan , Wędzony Maria
Published: March 2010

Variability in expression of male fertility in triticale (Xtriticosecalewittmack) withTriticum timopheevicytoplasm

We present a reliable, visual method for evaluation of the level of male fertility during flowering, that is indispensable for breeding of hybrid cultivars of winter triticale based on the cms-T.timopheevisystem. Detailed observations of anther development were performed on 20 F2and BC1plants derived from crosses between male-sterile and fertility restoring lines. Variation of anther development within florets, spikelets, spikes, and among spikes of the same plant was examined. Hierarchic analysis showed significant role of these factors in determination of anther development, irrespective of the level of plant fertility. The sterilizing effect of cytoplasm was always better visible in the tip and base spikelets of the spike, in the third floret, and the anther adjacent to the floret axis. Our data indicate that during selection toward male-sterile plants at anthesis, at least 5 spikes should be evaluated. Special attention should be paid to the development of the anthers at the 2ndand 7thspikelet of the spike along with the variability in anther development within spikelet and floret. The anthers in the tip and base spikelets of the spike must be precisely evaluated during selection toward restorer lines.
Requirements analysis of Multi-Agent Based Intelligent Tutoring Systems
Authors: Lavendelis Egons , Grundspenkis Janis
Published: March 2010

Requirements analysis of Multi-Agent Based Intelligent Tutoring Systems

The agent oriented software engineering research proposes general assumptions for agent oriented software development, while intelligent tutoring system (ITS) research proposes specific ITS architecture and other specific knowledge for ITS development. Both of these views should be taken into consideration while developing multi-agent based ITSs. Thus there is a need for specific approaches for all phases of agent based ITS development which take into consideration main ideas from both agent oriented software engineering and ITS research. In this paper we propose a requirements analysis approach for multi-agent based ITSs. A case study of a simple ITS is included, too. Requirements analysis in the proposed approach consist of two main steps, namely goal modelling and use case modelling. During the goal modelling the main goals of the system are identified and a goal hierarchy for the system is created. During the use case modelling use cases needed to achieve each lower level goal and their descriptions are created. The proposed approach of the requirements analysis is intended to be a part of the full life cycle methodology for multi-agent based ITS development. The developed use case model (especially use case scenarios) is used during the agent interaction design and task definition. Goal hierarchy during the design phase is mainly used for checking, if the results of design achieve all system's goals.
The effective management approach: integration of business, quality management and knowledge management processes
Authors: Galandere-Zīle Imandra
Published: March 2010

The effective management approach: integration of business, quality management and knowledge management processes

In the nowadays' dynamic environment only those organizations can survive that are able quickly react to opportunities and threats from the environment and to produce innovation ideas and turn them into products and services at a quicker pace then the competition. Therefore organizations seek different ways how to get ahead competitors. As quality management and knowledge management have proved themselves as perspective fields author of the paper proposes the integrated approach of both areas in order organizations can gain the most possible benefit from applying them. This paper shows the deeper aspects of both of these fields from the point of view of the process approach. Here is discussed the interactions of quality management, knowledge management and business processes. An elaborated organizational business and quality management process chart shows how quality management processes support the organization's management by providing information about system effectiveness, process performance, customer satisfaction and requirements. This information can be successfully used as a basis for decision-making concerning the necessary improvements and organization future goals. An integrated organizational business, quality management and knowledge management process chart demonstrates how effective management of an organization's knowledge assets can help to improve the organization's tasks in the sense of organizational performance, effectiveness and innovations. This paper is a beginning of the research toward the development of knowledge management services for quality management.
Information security governance as key performance indicator for financial institutions
Authors: Kryukov Dmitry , Strauss Raimonds
Published: March 2010

Information security governance as key performance indicator for financial institutions

Due to their nature financial institutions and their performance are in constant focus of attention from different stakeholder groups. These groups according to their functions and interests are implementing different sets of key performance indicators for financial institution performance assessment. In the proposed paper authors present a hypothesis of information security governance being a financial institution key performance indicator. Authors provide high level overview of existing situation in key performance indicator domain for financial institutions. The overview of stakeholder groups interested in financial institution performance management is provided. In the same way as corporate governance is treated as financial and operational performance reflecting and influencing factor, information security governance as a component of corporate governance, according to authors' opinion, should be treated as key performance indicator for financial institutions. In the paper the most indicative financial performance indicators as well as their calculation methods are defined for financial institutions. The paper contains overview of information security assessment models and researches in this field. Authors have chosen information security maturity model to use in testing hypothesis. The paper contains description of calculation methodology for financial performance indicators and information security maturity indicators. The hypothesis has been proved performing analysis of correlation between calculated financial performance indicators and information security governance model indicators for chosen Latvian financial institutions.
Definition of General Requirements for Graph Visualization Software
Authors: Zabiniako Vitaly , Rusakov Pavel
Published: March 2010

Definition of General Requirements for Graph Visualization Software

This paper contains comparative analysis of some modern graph visualization packages (for example, "Graphviz", "yFiles", "Wilmascope 3D", etc) in order to outline and characterize general requirements that could be useful for development of new graph visualization software (GVS). Relations between identified requirements and necessary related components of potential GVS are being derived. To precise these requirements there were studied an additional theoretical information sources. The main goal of this research is to improve development of new GVS providing mechanism of design templates for different kinds of tasks (for example - visualization of general graphs, diagrams, routing and communication networks, etc). The result of this research is presented in tabular form. That allows identifying the set of main components of new frameworks at early stages of software development (starting with a list of desired features and transforming it into a list of necessary components). An example of using such table in DBMS MS Access environment is provided in a study of development of imaginary GVS as a part of generic air traffic control routing system. There is made conclusion about the achieved results. It is presented information about future researches in this field.
Perspectives on Data Mining
Authors: Adams Niall M.
Published: March 2010

As a data analysis technology, data mining has matured to the extent that there are now a number of sophisticated commercial software packages available. The purpose of this article is to explore what data mining has become, its relationship to statistics and its relevance in market research.
Purchasing Behaviour in an Online Supermarket
Authors: Marimon Frederic , Vidgen Richard , Barnes Stuart , Cristóbal Eduard
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to assess the applicability of the four dimensions of online service quality, as proposed in the E-S-QUAL scale, to the setting of an online supermarket; and, second, to propose and test a model that links these e-quality dimensions with loyalty and purchasing behaviour in the setting of an online supermarket.

An online questionnaire was used to survey 131 customers of an online Spanish supermarket using the E-S-QUAL scale. The data were analysed by exploratory factor analysis to test the applicability of the E-S-QUAL scale to the setting of an online supermarket and generate an extended model (including constructs for ‘perceived value’, ‘loyalty’ and ‘actual purchases’). The model was then checked by structural equation modelling (SEM).

The four dimensions proposed by the E-S-QUAL scale were confirmed in the setting of an online Spanish supermarket. The influence of these various quality dimensions on perceived value, loyalty and actual purchases are delineated here.

The study reassures online vendors that E-S-QUAL is an appropriate instrument by which to measure online service quality. The study also provides empirical evidence that high levels of e-service quality have a positive influence on purchasing behaviour.

The study is the first to provide definitive empirical evidence of the commonly presumed linkage between the quality dimensions proposed in the E-S-QUAL scale and the constructs of loyalty and actual – not self-reported – purchase behaviour.
From the Ganglioside GQ1b? to Glycomimetic Antagonists of the Myelin-Associated Glycoprotein (MAG)
Authors: Ernst Beat , Schwardt Oliver , Mesch Stefanie , Wittwer Matthias , Rossato Gianluca , Vedani Angelo
Published: March 2010

The tetrasaccharide 4, a substructure of ganglioside GQ1b?, shows a remarkable affinity for the myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) and was therefore selected as starting point for a lead optimization program. In our search for structurally simplified and pharmacokinetically
improved mimics of 4, antagonists with modifications of the core disaccharide Gal?(1-3)GalNAc, as well as the terminal ?(2-3)- and the internal ?(2-6)-linked neuraminic acid were synthesized and tested in target-based binding assays. Compared to the reference
tetrasaccharide 4, the most potent antagonist 17 exhibits a 360-fold improved affinity. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic parameters such as stability in the cerebrospinal fluid, logD and permeation through the BBB indicate the drug-like properties of antagonist 17.
In vivo Neutralization of Naturally Existing Antibodies against Linear ?(1,3)-Galactosidic Carbohydrate Epitopes by Multivalent Antigen Presentation: A Solution for the First Hurdle of Pig-to-Human Xenotransplantation
Authors: Duthaler Rudolf O. , Ernst Beat , Fischer Reto , Katopodis Andreas G. , Kinzy Willy , Marterer Wolfgang , Oehrlein Reinhold , Streiff Markus B. , Thoma Gebhard
Published: March 2010

Pig-to-human xenotransplantation of islet cells or of vascularized organs would offer a welcome treatment alternative for the ever-increasing number of patients with end-stage organ failure who are waiting for a suitable allograph. The main hurdle are preexisting antibodies, most of
which are specific for 'Linear-B', carbohydrate epitopes terminated by the unbranched Gal-?(1,3)Gal disaccharide. These antibodies are responsible for the 'hyper-acute rejection' of the xenograft by complement mediated hemorrhage. For depletion of such antibodies we have developed an
artificial injectable antigen, a glycopolymer (GAS914) with a charge neutral poly-lysine backbone (degree of polymerization n = 1000) and 25% of its side chains coupled to Linear-B-trisaccharide. With an average molecular weight of 400 to 500 kD, presenting 250 trisaccharide
epitopes per molecule, this multivalent array binds anti-?Gal antibodies with at least three orders of magnitude higher avidity on a per-saccharide basis than the monomeric epitope. In vivo experiments with non-human primates documented that rather low doses – 1 to 5 mg/kg
of GAS914 injected i.v. – efficiently reduce the load of anti-Linear-B antibodies quickly by at least 80%. This treatment can be repeated without any sensitization to GAS914. Interestingly, although the antibody levels start raising 12 h after injection, they do not reach pretreatment
levels. The polymer is degraded and excreted within hours, with a minute fraction remaining in lymphoid tissue of anti-?Gal producing animals only, probably binding to and inhibiting antibody-producing B-cells. The results of pig-to-non-human primate xenotransplantations established
GAS914 as a relevant therapeutic option for pig-to-human transplantations as well. The synthesis of GAS914 was successfully scaled up to kg amounts needed for first clinical studies. Key was the use of galactosyl transferases and UDP-galactose for the synthesis of the trisaccharide.
The Design and Synthesis of Biologically Active Organophosphorus Compounds – The Role of a Central Research Laboratory
Authors: Hall Roger G.
Published: March 2010

The properties and benefits offered by incorporating phosphorus into molecules are varied and numerous as shown by the many divisional research programs within Ciba-Geigy in the early eighties. This paper describes how a Central Research Group developed new materials in organophosphorous
chemistry and identified new leads for life science applications.
Continuous Non-Invasive Ophthalmic Glucose Sensor for Diabetics
Authors: Domschke Angelika M.
Published: March 2010

A contact lens with an embedded glucose sensor hologram has been developed for continuous non-invasive monitoring of glucose levels in diabetics. This article describes the development and initial clinical testing of this ophthalmic glucose sensor and provides a comparison to current
continuous glucose monitors.
Highly Enantioselective Catalytic Asymmetric Synthesis of a (R)-Sibutramin Precursor
Authors: Berens Ulrich , Hafner Andreas , Dosenbach Oliver , Tritschler Tanja , Schwarzenbach Franz , Kirner Hans-Jörg , Malan Christophe , Mai-Huynh Oanh
Published: March 2010

The first highly enantioselective, catalytic asymmetric synthesis of di-des-methylsibutramine 3 is described. Dienamide 10, prepared by acetic acid anhydride quenching of the condensation product of nitrile 4 with a methallyl magnesium chloride, proved to be an
excellent substrate for ruthenium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation with atropisomeric diphosphine ligands. Hydrogenation with a ruthenium/(R)- MeOBiPheP catalyst at S/C = 500, gave the chiral amide (R)-9 in 98.5% ee in almost quantitative yield. After acidic amide
hydrolysis the desired amine (R)-3 was obtained without erosion of enantioselectivity. It is anticipated that the overall process will be amenable to large-scale production.
Closing Remarks at the Symposium in Honour of Daniel Belluš Pharmacenter, University of Basel, February 6, 2009
Authors: Ganter Camille
Published: March 2010

In the Closing Remarks at the Symposium on 'Frontiers in Bioorganic Chemistry' (Friday, February 6, 2009, Pharmacenter, University of Basel) in honour of Daniel Belluš, his arrival in Zürich in fall 1967 and especially his postdoctoral work at the Laboratorium für Organische
Chemie at the Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) in Zürich throughout the year 1967/68 were mentioned. In his most remarkable paper (published in 1969 in Helv. Chim. Acta), the photochemistry of the ?,?-unsaturated cyclohexenones O-acetyl-testosterone and
10-methy-?1,9-octalon-(2) is described in detail. Change of solvent leads to lowering or increasing of the n,?*- and (?,?*)-triplet energies, resulting in a crossing of the two energy levels. Personal remarks on Daniel Belluš and warmest thanks to him, to Profs.
Beat Ernst and Bernd Giese (the organizers of the symposium) and to all the speakers concluded this most special event.
How Long is the Peer Review Process for Journal Manuscripts? A Case Study on Angewandte Chemie International Edition
Authors: Bornmann Lutz , Daniel Hans-Dieter
Published: March 2010

One of the most frequently raised criticisms of the review process for manuscripts is that the length of time between submission of a manuscript and the editorial decision is overly long. Taking the journal Angewandte Chemie International Edition as an example and based on nearly
2000 manuscripts, the present study examined just how long the peer review process takes.
Biotech Research: Bringing Better Therapies to the People The Olten Meeting 2009
Authors: Heinzelmann Elsbeth
Published: March 2010

Biotech specialists met on November 19, 2009 for their traditional 'Olten Meeting'. On their agenda: to orientate biotech research to more efficient diagnostic instruments and therapies to lead the fight against incurable diseases. A look behind the scenes of current research in Swiss
biotechnology.
Editorial Vol.2(1)
Authors: Editor The
Published: March 2010

DOI: 10.3126/bodhi.v2i1.2860 Bodhi Vol.2(1) 2008
Representation of Vietnam in 2006:A Comparative Study between Western and Local Media
Authors: Thanh Le Trieu
Published: March 2010

But, like any frame that delineates a world, the news frame may be considered problematic. The view through a window depends upon whether the window is large or small, has many panes or few, whether the glass is opaque or clear, whether the windows faces a street or a backyard. The unfolding scene also depends upon where one stands, far or near, craning one's neck to the side, or gazing straight ahead, eyes parallel to the wall in which the window is encased" (Gaye Tuchman - Making news: A study in the Construction of Reality, 1978, p.1) DOI: 10.3126/bodhi.v2i1.2864 Bodhi Vol.2(1) 2008 p.64-88
Discourses of Biratā (Bravery) and Shānti (Peace) in School Level Nepalese textbooks
Authors: Aryal Deepak
Published: March 2010

DOI: 10.3126/bodhi.v2i1.2865 Bodhi Vol.2(1) 2008 p.89-116
Commodification of Personal Letters: The Cultural Politics of Print Industry in Nineteenth Century England
Authors: Acharya Khagendra
Published: March 2010

DOI: 10.3126/bodhi.v2i1.2869Bodhi Vol.2(1) 2008 p.176-187
Culture and Nationalism in Devkota’s Shakuntala
Authors: Sharma Bal Krishna
Published: March 2010

Laxmi Prasad Devkota's reputation as one of the most accomplished literary figures in Nepal needs any elaborate explication. A cursory glance at his English writings reveals that he was as good in English language as in Nepali. His English renderings include essays, poems and translations. Kafle (2007) puts Devkota's English writings in three categories: first, those originally written in English; second, the translations of his own works; and third, the translations of other contemporary writers (p. 19). The famous epic Shakuntala is considered greatest among his works written both in English and Nepali. DOI: 10.3126/bodhi.v2i1.2872 Bodhi Vol.2(1) 2008 p.205-210
Portrayal of Women’s Issues in PTV Drama Serials: An Overview
Authors: Qaiser Saleem Abbas , Jabeen Firasat
Published: March 2010

This article attempts to present an overview of portrayal of women's issues in Pakistan Television (PTV) drama serials. Women's issues have been concerns of PTV programs since its early days. Particularly, drama serials have been significant in this regard. However, it is a matter of study whether they are really serious on the problems of women or whether they portray women in a stereotypical images. DOI: 10.3126/bodhi.v2i1.2873 Bodhi Vol.2(1) 2008 p.211-218
Online News Portals in Nepal: An Overview
Authors: Kshetri Indra Dhoj
Published: March 2010

DOI: 10.3126/bodhi.v2i1.2876 Bodhi Vol.2(1) 2008 p.260-267
NO2 Concentration in Banepa Valley, Nepal
Authors: Majumder Ahmad Kamruzzaman , Murthy V Krishna , Khanal Sanjay Nath , Giri Dhiraj
Published: March 2010

This study comprised of air quality monitoring during the day time at three municipalities of Banepa, Dhulikhel and Panauti(Known as Banepa Valley) in Kavre district of Nepal. The study was conducted in order to establish a baseline air quality data for those municipalities as the first time ever in the district. In each of those municipalities three air monitoring stations were established representing predominant industrial, commercial and residential areas. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) had been estimated from air sampling programme which spanned 7 months and a total of 126 days reflecting winter, premonsoon and monsoon seasons. Low Volume Air (LVA) Sampler and Personal air sampler were used for sampling. UV spectrophotometer was used for estimation of the NO2. The study found that during winter season the concentration of NO2 was more and among the areas commercial area found to be highest level pollution. The over all mean, minimum and maximum level of NO2 was found to be 24.62μg/m3, 11.26μg/m3, 91.20μg/m3 in the Banepa valley. The seasonal trend in pollution levels show that winter > pre-monsoon > monsoon. The pollution concentration trend noted among the areas was commercial > industrial > residential on almost all the occasions. This finding conclude that, most of the time NO2 level are below the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and World Health Organization (WHO) guideline representing little risk at present in Banepa Valley however commercial area of Banepa is more polluted and is associated with higher NO2 concentration compared to other areas. Keywords: NO2, Nepal, Banepa, air quality, personal air sampler DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v4i1.2878 Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.4, No.1, September 2008, pp 1-11
Effect of Fuzzy Logic Controller Implementation on a Digitally Controlled Robot Movement
Authors: Soh Azura Che , Alwi Erny Aznida , Rahman Ribhan Zafira Abdul , Fey Li Hong
Published: March 2010

Advanced intelligent control design cannot entirely replace the application of conventional controller in robotic system. On the other hand, intelligent controllers can be implemented into conventional controller design to increase its performance and ability. Most of intelligent control in movement control involves fuzzy logic and neural network system. This study features the influence of fuzzy logic controller upon the performance of robot movement simulation, which is controlled by a digital controller. Model design and simulation are done in SIMULINK, using Fuzzy Logic Toolbox provided by MATLAB software to control the movement speed of a robotic designed system. Finally, the movement speed is found better off controlled with the additional of fuzzy logic controller instead of the digital controller solely. Keywords: Intelligent Control; Fuzzy Logic; Digital Controller; Robot Movement; Simulink. DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v4i1.2881Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.4, No.1, September 2008, pp 28-39
A Comparative Retrospective Study of Poisoning Cases in Central, Zonal and District Hospitals
Authors: Pokhrel Deepak , Pant Sirjana , Pradhan Anupama , Mansoor Saffar
Published: March 2010

The 582 data collected from Central, Zonal and District level Hospitals, which occurred from Magh 2057 to Poush 2058 produced significant results. Various parameters (age, sex, marital status, time of ingestion, month of occurrence, Agent responsible for the incidence, type of poisoning, outcome and duration of treatment) were analyzed. Similarly the pattern of frequency distribution of the above-mentioned parameter in central, zonal and district level of hospitals were compared. Hypothesis were made and tested. Females were found to be more susceptible to the intentional incidence than male (p = 0.000). Intentional poisoning for unmarried male was found to be more (34%) than for female. On the contrary, intentional poisoning in female was high in case of married subjects (57%)(p = 0.000). The most common type of poisoning causing the intentional attempt was organophosphates (40%) followed by Phosphides (14%). On the other hand unintentional poisoning was most common due to the unclassified and other agents (8%), which were followed by hydrocarbons (6.3%). (p = 0.000). The most common organophosphate used for intentional attempt for poisoning is methyl parathion (31%) when compared with other groups of organophosphates (26%). Sedative and hypnotics were the most common type of drugs (43%) used for intentional attempt. Nighttime incidence was more frequent (31%). Homicidal poisoning occurring in both central and district hospital were equal being 3.6% of the total types of attempt of incidence. Most of the cases as obvious were found to be cured (84.8% out of total cases). The zonal hospital shows the highest cure rate (89.2%) followed by district hospital (74.2%)-the comparison however excludes central level hospitals. The mortality however is similar in both hospitals (4.4% and 4.5% respectively in zonal and district hospitals). Accidental intake of hydrocarbon was found to be most frequent in the children (33%) while intentional intakes of other agents were more frequent in adults (97%). The rainy season was the most common season for the attempt of intentional incidence (47.8%) adding to mortality. The most common age group of subjects exposed to intentional attempt that adds to the mortality is 15-24 years (39.1%). The TYPE, primarily adding to mortality was intentional intake (91.3%) (p = 0.008). Most of the intentional incidence adding to mortality is caused by organophosphates (66.7%) followed by Phosphides (19%). Subjects between age group 15-24 are more likely to cause the intentional exposure (44%) while children below five years are more likely to cause accidental exposure (6%) (p = 0.000). Seasonal comparison showed a high incidence in rainy season (24%) as compared to that of autumn (23%). Key words: Central Hospital; Zonal Hospital; District Hospital; Aluminium Phosphide; Intentional Poisoning. DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v4i1.2882 Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.4, No.1, September 2008, pp 40-48