bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economics of marigold cultivation in some selected areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Haque MA , Miah MA Monayem , Hossain S , Alam M
Published: April 2013

Marigold cultivation is now a profitable enterprise to the farmers, but the socioeconomic data and information of this flower are very scarce in Bangladesh. Therefore, the study was conducted to identify agronomic practices, analyze relative profitability, and input-output relationship during February 2011. Primary data were collected from 100 randomly selected farmers from Jessore and Jhenaidah districts. The results indicated that 95% farmers cultivated T- 004 line and only 5% farmers cultivated T- 003 line of marigold. The per hectare costs of marigold cultivation were Tk. 1,47,234 and Tk. 1,02,858 on full cost and variable cost, respectively. The major share of full cost was for human labour (34%), land use (18%), fertilizer (15%), and irrigation (10%). The yield of marigold was 2,650,447 flowers per hectare. The gross margin and net return were Tk.1, 62,186 and Tk.1, 17,812 per hectare, respectively. The net return was 81% higher than lentil, 85% higher than mustard, and 6% lower than potato cultivation. The benefit cost ratios were 2.57 and 1.80 on variable cost and full cost basis, respectively. Cobb-Douglas production function revealed that human labour, land preparation, seedling, urea, TSP, MoP, and irrigation had positive effect on marigold cultivation. The lack of technical knowledge, nonavailability of high yielding variety, and infestation of insects and diseases were major problems for marigold cultivation. Therefore, necessary steps from concerned authority are needed to overcome these problems. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v37i4.14395 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 37(4): 711-720, December 2012
Evaluation of tropical sugarbeet genotypes under Bangladesh condition
Authors: Islam MS , Ahmad S , Uddin MN , Sattar MA
Published: April 2013

An investigation was undertaken to study the feasibility of sugarbeet cultivation under Bangladesh condition during winter season of 2009-2010. Seeds of 14 sugarbeet genotypes were sown in the experimental field of Horticulture Research Centre of BARI, Gazipur on 10 November 2009. Visible root swelling in all genotypes started between 36 and 40 days after sowing (DAS). Nine genotypes had white root colour while rest were red purple. Plant height varied from 26.8 cm to 55.0 cm at 165 DAS. Similarly, whole plant weight among the genotypes ranged from 0.76 kg to 1.60 kg. Mean root yield in all genotypes was 66.22 t/ha when harvested at 165 DAS, which was decreased to 56.29 t/ha at 180 DAS. However, the highest root yield was recorded from the genotypes SB001 (85.30 t/ha) closely followed by SB006 (84.40 t/ha) at 165 DAS. All the genotypes showed lower yield potential at 180 DAS compared to 165 DAS. Severe leaf shedding and drying up of the root in the later stage might be the reason for yield reduction. Nine genotypes had more than 10% sucrose and can be considered for sugar producing genotypes. Five genotypes had very less sucrose content in the root and can be useful for vegetable purpose. The genotypes SB001 and SB006 had comparatively high amount of sucrose (13.0%) in the root. The fungal disease Sclerotium root rot and the insect Spodoptera litura were found the most limiting factor for sugarbeet cultivation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v37i4.14396 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 37(4): 721-728, December 2012
Effect of different packaging systems and chlorination on the quality and shelf life of green chili
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Mizanur , Miaruddin Md , Chowdhury Md. Golam Ferdous , Khan Md. Hafizul Haque , Matin MA
Published: April 2013

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of packaging materials on the quality and shelf life of green chili (Capsicum annuum) using passive modification of modified atmosphere packaging system. The modified atmosphere was created by making perforation in the polypropylene packets. Green chili pre-treated with chlorine water and then packaging in 0.3% perforated polypropylene packet resulted substantial reduction of weight loss and rotting/shriveling. These treatment combinations also considerably retained vitamin C, ß-carotene, moisture content, etc. Under this condition the retention of quality and shelf life of green chili could be extended up to 10 days at ambient condition as compared to non-treated and without packaging. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v37i4.14397 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 37(4): 729-736, December 2012
Power Collection from Wave Energy Farms
Authors: Sjolte Jonas , Tjensvoll Gaute , Molinas Marta
Published: April 2013

Most Wave Energy Converters (WECs) produce highly distorted power due to thereciprocal motion induced by ocean waves. Some WEC systems have integrated energystorage that overcomes this limitation, but add significant expenses to an already costlysystem. As an alternative approach, this article investigates the direct export option thatrelies on aggregate smoothing among several WECs. By optimizing the positioning of theWEC devices with respect to the incoming waves, fluctuations may be mutually canceledout between the devices. This work is based on Fred. Olsen’s WEC system Lifesaver, anda WEC farm consisting of 48 devices is designed in detail and simulated. The major costdriver for the electrical export system is the required oversize factor necessary for transferof the average power output. Due to the low power quality, this number can be as high as20 at the entry point of the electrical system, and it is thus crucial to quickly improve thepower quality so that the downstream power system is efficiently utilized. The simulationsundertaken in this work indicate that a high quality power output can be achieved at the farmlevel, but that a significant oversize factor will be required in the intermediate power systemwithin the farm.
Predicting the Response of Molluscs to the Impact of Ocean Acidification
Authors: Parker Laura , Ross Pauline , O'Connor Wayne , Pörtner Hans , Scanes Elliot , Wright John
Published: April 2013

Elevations in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) are anticipated to acidify oceans because of fundamental changes in ocean chemistry created by CO2 absorption from the atmosphere. Over the next century, these elevated concentrations of atmospheric CO2 are expected to result in a reduction of the surface ocean waters from 8.1 to 7.7 units as well as a reduction in carbonate ion (CO32−) concentration. The potential impact that this change in ocean chemistry will have on marine and estuarine organisms and ecosystems is a growing concern for scientists worldwide. While species-specific responses to ocean acidification are widespread across a number of marine taxa, molluscs are one animal phylum with many species which are particularly vulnerable across a number of life-history stages. Molluscs make up the second largest animal phylum on earth with 30,000 species and are a major producer of CaCO3. Molluscs also provide essential ecosystem services including habitat structure and food for benthic organisms (i.e., mussel and oyster beds), purification of water through filtration and are economically valuable. Even sub lethal impacts on molluscs due to climate changed oceans will have serious consequences for global protein sources and marine ecosystems.
Support Vector Regression Model Based on Empirical Mode Decomposition and Auto Regression for Electric Load Forecasting
Authors: Fan Guo-Feng , Qing Shan , Wang Hua , Hong Wei-Chiang , Li Hong-Juan
Published: April 2013

Electric load forecasting is an important issue for a power utility, associated with the management of daily operations such as energy transfer scheduling, unit commitment, and load dispatch. Inspired by strong non-linear learning capability of support vector regression (SVR), this paper presents a SVR model hybridized with the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) method and auto regression (AR) for electric load forecasting. The electric load data of the New South Wales (Australia) market are employed for comparing the forecasting performances of different forecasting models. The results confirm the validity of the idea that the proposed model can simultaneously provide forecasting with good accuracy and interpretability.
The Contribution of Neighbourhood Material and Social Deprivation to Survival: A 22-Year Follow-up of More than 500,000 Canadians
Authors: Ross Nancy , Oliver Lisa , Villeneuve Paul
Published: April 2013

Background: We examined the incremental influence on survival of neighbourhood material and social deprivation while accounting for individual level socioeconomic status in a large population-based cohort of Canadians. Methods: More than 500,000 adults were followed for 22 years between 1982 and 2004. Tax records provided information on sex, income, marital status and postal code while a linkage was used to determine vital status. Cox models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) for quintiles of neighbourhood material and social deprivation. Results: There were 180,000 deaths over the follow-up period. In unadjusted analyses, those living in the most materially deprived neighbourhoods had elevated risks of mortality (HRmales 1.37, 95% CI: 1.33–1.41; HRfemales 1.20, 95% CI: 1.16–1.24) when compared with those living in the least deprived neighbourhoods. Mortality risk was also elevated for those living in socially deprived neighbourhoods (HRmales 1.15, CI: 1.12–1.18; HRfemales 1.15, CI: 1.12–1.19). Mortality risk associated with material deprivation remained elevated in models that adjusted for individual factors (HRmales 1.20, CI: 1.17–1.24; HRfemales 1.16, CI: 1.13–1.20) and this was also the case for social deprivation (HRmales 1.12, CI: 1.09–1.15; HRfemales 1.09, CI: 1.05–1.12). Immigrant neighbourhoods were protective of mortality risk for both sexes. Being poor and living in the most socially advantageous neighbourhoods translated into a survival gap of 10% over those in the most socially deprived neighbourhoods. The gap for material neighbourhood deprivation was 7%. Conclusions: Living in socially and materially deprived Canadian neighbourhoods was associated with elevated mortality risk while we noted a “healthy immigrant neighbourhood effect”. For those with low family incomes, living in socially and materially deprived areas negatively affected survival beyond their individual circumstances.
Bioaccumulation of Trace Elements in Ruditapes philippinarum from China: Public Health Risk Assessment Implications
Authors: Yang Feng , Zhao Liqiang , Yan Xiwu , Wang Yuan
Published: April 2013

The Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum is one of the most important commercial bivalve species consumed in China. Evaluated metal burden in bivalve molluscs can pose potential risks to public health as a result of their frequent consumption. In this study, concentrations of 10 trace elements (Cu, Zn, Mn, Se, Ni, Cd, Cr, Pb, Hg and As) were determined in samples of the bivalve Ruditapes philippinarum, collected from nine mariculture zones along the coast of China between November and December in 2010, in order to evaluate the status of elemental metal pollution in these areas. Also, a public health risk assessment was untaken to assess the potential risks associated with the consumption of clams. The ranges of concentrations found for Cu, Zn, Mn, Se, Ni, Cd, Cr, Pb, Hg and As in R. philippinarum were 12.1–38.0, 49.5–168.3, 42.0–68.0, 4.19–8.71, 4.76–14.32, 0.41–1.11, 0.94–4.74, 0.32–2.59, 0.03–0.23 and 0.46–11.95 mg·kg−1 dry weight, respectively. Clear spatial variations were found for Cu, Zn, Cr, Pb, Hg and As, whereas Mn, Se, Ni, and Cd did not show significant spatial variation. Hotspots of trace element contamination in R. philippinarum can be found along the coast of China, from the north to the south, especially in the Bohai and Yellow Seas. Based on a 58.1 kg individual consuming 29 g of bivalve molluscs per day, the values of the estimated daily intake (EDI) of trace elements analyzed were significantly lower than the values of the accepted daily intake (ADI) established by Joint Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization Expert Committee on Food Additives (JFAO/WHO) and the guidelines of the reference does (RfD) established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Additionally, the risk of trace elements to humans through R. philippinarum consumption was also assessed. The calculated hazard quotients (HQ) of all trace elements were less than 1. Consequently, there was no obvious public risk from the intake of these trace elements through R. philippinarum consumption.
Distinct Signaling Cascades Elicited by Different Formyl Peptide Receptor 2 (FPR2) Agonists
Authors: Cattaneo Fabio , Parisi Melania , Ammendola Rosario
Published: April 2013

The formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2) is a remarkably versatile transmembrane protein belonging to the G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) family. FPR2 is activated by an array of ligands, which include structurally unrelated lipids and peptide/proteins agonists, resulting in different intracellular responses in a ligand-specific fashion. In addition to the anti-inflammatory lipid, lipoxin A4, several other endogenous agonists also bind FPR2, including serum amyloid A, glucocorticoid-induced annexin 1, urokinase and its receptor, suggesting that the activation of FPR2 may result in potent pro- or anti-inflammatory responses. Other endogenous ligands, also present in biological samples, include resolvins, amyloidogenic proteins, such as beta amyloid (Aβ)-42 and prion protein (Prp)106–126, the neuroprotective peptide, humanin, antibacterial peptides, annexin 1-derived peptides, chemokine variants, the neuropeptides, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP)-27, and mitochondrial peptides. Upon activation, intracellular domains of FPR2 mediate signaling to G-proteins, which trigger several agonist-dependent signal transduction pathways, including activation of phospholipase C (PLC), protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms, the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway, the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, p38MAPK, as well as the phosphorylation of cytosolic tyrosine kinases, tyrosine kinase receptor transactivation, phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of regulatory transcriptional factors, release of calcium and production of oxidants. FPR2 is an attractive therapeutic target, because of its involvement in a range of normal physiological processes and pathological diseases. Here, we review and discuss the most significant findings on the intracellular pathways and on the cross-communication between FPR2 and tyrosine kinase receptors triggered by different FPR2 agonists.
Magnetic Drug Targeting Reduces the Chemotherapeutic Burden on Circulating Leukocytes
Authors: Janko Christina , Dürr Stephan , Munoz Luis , Lyer Stefan , Chaurio Ricardo , Tietze Rainer , Löhneysen Sarah , Schorn Christine , Herrmann Martin , Alexiou Christoph
Published: April 2013

Magnetic drug targeting (MDT) improves the integrity of healthy tissues and cells during treatment with cytotoxic drugs. An anticancer drug is bound to superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION), injected into the vascular supply of the tumor and directed into the tumor by means of an external magnetic field. In this study, we investigated the impact of SPION, mitoxantrone (MTO) and SPIONMTO on cell viability in vitro and the nonspecific uptake of MTO into circulating leukocytes in vivo. MDT was compared with conventional chemotherapy. MTO uptake and the impact on cell viability were assessed by flow cytometry in a Jurkat cell culture. In order to analyze MTO loading of circulating leukocytes in vivo, we treated tumor-bearing rabbits with MDT and conventional chemotherapy. In vitro experiments showed a dose-dependent MTO uptake and reduction in the viability and proliferation of Jurkat cells. MTO and SPIONMTO showed similar cytotoxic activity. Non-loaded SPION did not have any effect on cell viability in the concentrations tested. Compared with systemic administration in vivo, MDT employing SPIONMTO significantly decreased the chemotherapeutic load in circulating leukocytes. We demonstrated that MDT spares the immune system in comparison with conventional chemotherapy.
Fabrication of Magnetic-Antimicrobial-Fluorescent Multifunctional Hybrid Microspheres and Their Properties
Authors: Xiao Ling-Han , Wang Tao , Zhao Tian-Yi , Zheng Xin , Sun Li-Ying , Li Ping , Liu Feng-Qi , Gao Ge , Dong Alideertu
Published: April 2013

Novel magnetic-antimicrobial-fluorescent multifunctional hybrid microspheres with well-defined nanostructure were synthesized by the aid of a poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) template. The hybrid microspheres were fully characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and digital fluorescence microscope. The as-synthesized microspheres PGMA, amino-modified PGMA (NH2-PGMA) and magnetic PGMA (M-PGMA) have a spherical shape with a smooth surface and fine monodispersity. M-PGMA microspheres are super-paramagnetic, and their saturated magnetic field is 4.608 emu·g−1, which made M-PGMA efficiently separable from aqueous solution by an external magnetic field. After poly(haxemethylene guanidine hydrochloride) (PHGH) functionalization, the resultant microspheres exhibit excellent antibacterial performance against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The fluorescence feature originating from the quantum dot CdTe endowed the hybrid microspheres with biological functions, such as targeted localization and biological monitoring functions. Combination of magnetism, antibiosis and fluorescence into one single hybrid microsphere opens up the possibility of the extensive study of multifunctional materials and widens the potential applications.
The Treatment of Verrucae Pedis Using Falknor’s Needling Method: A Review of 46 Cases
Authors: Longhurst Belinda , Bristow Ivan
Published: April 2013

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) related verrucae pedis persist, seemingly evading host immune surveillance, yet sometimes disappear with inflammation. The absence, or reduction, of a cellular immune response may explain why verrucae treatments are not uniformly successful and treatment can be difficult even in immune-competent individuals. Little investigation has been undertaken into the potential benefit and efficacy of needling verrucae, a treatment modality causing HPV infected keratinocyte destruction in addition to inducing an assumed enhanced immune response. A review of clinical practice is presented, reporting the treatment method and results of data collected from a retrospective review of 45 patients. Thirty-one (69%) cases demonstrated complete resolution of verrucae following needling treatment. Three patients demonstrated reduction in size and pain whilst 11 showed no improvement. No adverse events were noted. Needling may have a place in the management of verrucae pedis in an adult population but a large scale study utilising objective measures and a control intervention would provide more detailed efficacy data along with a greater understanding of the effects of this treatment on long term immunity.
6″-Debromohamacanthin A, a Bis (Indole) Alkaloid, Inhibits Angiogenesis by Targeting the VEGFR2-Mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathways
Authors: Kim Gi , Cheong Oug , Bae Song , Shin Jongheon , Lee Sang
Published: April 2013

Hamacanthins, bis (indole) alkaloids, are found in a few marine sponges, including Spongosorites sp. Hamacanthins have been shown to possess cytotoxic, antibacterial and antifungal activities. However, the precise mechanism for the biological activities of hamacanthins has not yet been elucidated. In the present study, the anti-angiogenic effects of 6″-debromohamacanthin A (DBHA), an active component of isolated hamacanthins, were evaluated in cultured human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC) and endothelial-like cells differentiated from mouse embryonic stem (mES) cells. DBHA significantly inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced cell proliferation, migration and tube formation in the HUVEC. DBHA also suppressed the capillary-like structure formation and the expression of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (PECAM), an endothelial biomarker, in mES cell-derived endothelial-like cells. To further understand the precise molecular mechanism of action, VEGF-mediated signaling pathways were analyzed in HUVEC cells and mES cell-derived endothelial-like cells. DBHA suppressed the VEGF-induced expression of MAPKs (p38, ERK and SAPK/JNK) and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. In addition, DBHA inhibited microvessel sprouting in mES/EB-derived embryoid bodies. In an ex vivo model, DBHA also suppressed the microvessel sprouting of mouse aortic rings. The findings suggest for the first time that DBHA inhibits angiogenesis by targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2)-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in endothelial cells.
Isolation and Structure Elucidation of Three New Dolastanes from the Brown Alga Dilophus spiralis
Authors: Ioannou Efstathia , Vagias Constantinos , Roussis Vassilios
Published: April 2013

Three new dolastane diterpenes (1–3) and five previously reported perhydroazulenes were isolated from the organic extracts of the brown alga Dilophus spiralis. The structure elucidation and the assignment of the relative configurations of the isolated natural products were based on extensive analyses of their spectroscopic data, whereas the absolute configuration of metabolite 2 was determined through its chemical conversion to a previously isolated compound of known configuration.
Biological Activities of Ethanolic Extracts from Deep-Sea Antarctic Marine Sponges
Authors: Turk Tom , Avguštin Jerneja , Batista Urška , Strugar Gašper , Kosmina Rok , Čivović Sandra , Janussen Dorte , Kauferstein Silke , Mebs Dietrich , Sepčić Kristina
Published: April 2013

We report on the screening of ethanolic extracts from 33 deep-sea Antarctic marine sponges for different biological activities. We monitored hemolysis, inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, cytotoxicity towards normal and transformed cells and growth inhibition of laboratory, commensal and clinically and ecologically relevant bacteria. The most prominent activities were associated with the extracts from sponges belonging to the genus Latrunculia, which show all of these activities. While most of these activities are associated to already known secondary metabolites, the extremely strong acetylcholinesterase inhibitory potential appears to be related to a compound unknown to date. Extracts from Tetilla leptoderma, Bathydorus cf. spinosus, Xestospongia sp., Rossella sp., Rossella cf. racovitzae and Halichondria osculum were hemolytic, with the last two also showing moderate cytotoxic potential. The antibacterial tests showed significantly greater activities of the extracts of these Antarctic sponges towards ecologically relevant bacteria from sea water and from Arctic ice. This indicates their ecological relevance for inhibition of bacterial microfouling.
Spongiatriol Inhibits Nuclear Factor Kappa B Activation and Induces Apoptosis in Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Guzmán Esther , Maher Michael , Temkin Alexis , Pitts Tara , Wright Amy
Published: April 2013

Pancreatic cancer, the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the US, is highly resistant to all current chemotherapies, and its growth is facilitated by chronic inflammation. The majority of pro-inflammatory cytokines initiate signaling cascades that converge at the activation of the Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NFκB), a signal transduction molecule that promotes cell survival, proliferation and angiogenesis. In an effort to identify novel inhibitors of NFκB, the HBOI library of pure compounds was screened using a reporter cell line that produces luciferin under the transcriptional control of NFκB. Seven compounds were identified through this screen, but in the case of five of them, their reported mechanism of action made them unlikely to be specific NFκB inhibitors. Spongiatriol, a marine furanoditerpenoid that was first isolated in the 1970s, is shown here to inhibit NFκB transcriptional activity in a reporter cell line, to reduce levels of phosphorylated (active) NFκB in the AsPC-1 cell line, to have an IC50 for cytotoxicity in the low micromolar range against the AsPC-1, BxPC-3, MiaPaCa-2 and Panc-1 pancreatic cancer cell lines, and to induce moderate but significant apoptosis in both the AsPC-1 and the Panc-1 cell lines.
NMR-Based Milk Metabolomics
Authors: Sundekilde Ulrik , Larsen Lotte , Bertram Hanne
Published: April 2013

Milk is a key component in infant nutrition worldwide and, in the Western parts of the world, also in adult nutrition. Milk of bovine origin is both consumed fresh and processed into a variety of dairy products including cheese, fermented milk products, and infant formula. The nutritional quality and processing capabilities of bovine milk is closely associated to milk composition. Metabolomics is ideal in the study of the low-molecular-weight compounds in milk, and this review focuses on the recent nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics trends in milk research, including applications linking the milk metabolite profiling with nutritional aspects, and applications which aim to link the milk metabolite profile to various technological qualities of milk. The metabolite profiling studies encompass the identification of novel metabolites, which potentially can be used as biomarkers or as bioactive compounds. Furthermore, metabolomics applications elucidating how the differential regulated genes affects milk composition are also reported. This review will highlight the recent advances in NMR-based metabolomics on milk, as well as give a brief summary of when NMR spectroscopy can be useful for gaining a better understanding of how milk composition is linked to nutritional or quality traits.
Synthesis of a Pseudodisaccharide α-C-Glycosidically Linked to an 8-Alkylated Guanine
Authors: Huang Mu-Hua , Duchek Jan , Vasella Andrea
Published: April 2013

The synthesis of stable guanofosfocin analogues has attracted considerable attention in the past 15 years. Several guanofosfocin analogues mimicking the three constitutional elements of mannose, ribose, and guanine were designed and synthesized. Interest in ether-linked pseudodisaccharides and 8-alkylated guanines is increasing, due to their potential applications in life science. In this article, a novel guanofosfocin analogue 6, an ether-linked pseudodisaccharide connected α-C-glycosidically to an 8-alkylated guanine, was synthesized in a 10-longest linear step sequence from known diol 13, resulting in an overall yield of 26%. The key steps involve the ring-opening of cyclic sulfate 8 by alkoxide generated from 7 and a reductive cyclization of 4-N-acyl-2,4-diamino-5-nitrosopyrimidine 19 to form compound 6.
A Novel Flexible Room Temperature Ethanol Gas Sensor Based on SnO2 Doped Poly-Diallyldimethylammonium Chloride
Authors: Zhan Shuang , Li Dongmei , Liang Shengfa , Chen Xin , Li Xia
Published: April 2013

A novel flexible room temperature ethanol gas sensor was fabricated and demonstrated in this paper. The polyimide (PI) substrate-based sensor was formed by depositing a mixture of SnO2 nanopowder and poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDDAC) on as-patterned interdigitated electrodes. PDDAC acted both as the binder, promoting the adhesion between SnO2 and the flexible PI substrate, and the dopant. We found that the response of SnO2-PDDAC sensor is significantly higher than that of SnO2 alone, indicating that the doping with PDDAC effectively improved the sensor performance. The SnO2-PDDAC sensor has a detection limit of 10 ppm at room temperature and shows good selectivity to ethanol, making it very suitable for monitoring drunken driving. The microstructures of the samples were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR), and the sensing mechanism is also discussed in detail.
Formaldehyde Gas Sensors: A Review
Authors: Chung Po-Ren , Tzeng Chun-Ta , Ke Ming-Tsun , Lee Chia-Yen
Published: April 2013

Many methods based on spectrophotometric, fluorometric, piezoresistive, amperometric or conductive measurements have been proposed for detecting the concentration of formaldehyde in air. However, conventional formaldehyde measurement systems are bulky and expensive and require the services of highly-trained operators. Accordingly, the emergence of sophisticated technologies in recent years has prompted the development of many microscale gaseous formaldehyde detection systems. Besides their compact size, such devices have many other advantages over their macroscale counterparts, including a real-time response, a more straightforward operation, lower power consumption, and the potential for low-cost batch production. This paper commences by providing a high level overview of the formaldehyde gas sensing field and then describes some of the more significant real-time sensors presented in the literature over the past 10 years or so.
Enantioselective reduction of ketoimines promoted by easily available (S)-proline derivatives
Authors: Bonsignore Martina , Benaglia Maurizio , Raimondi Laura , Orlandi Manuel , Celentano Giuseppe
Published: April 2013

The behavior of readily synthesized and even commercially available (S)-proline derivatives, was studied in the trichlorosilane-mediated reduction of ketoimines. A small library of structurally and electronically modified chiral Lewis bases was considered; such compounds were shown to promote the enantioselective reduction of different substrates in good chemical yields. In the HSiCl3 addition to the model substrate N-phenylacetophenone imine, the organocatalyst of choice led to the formation of the corresponding amine with good stereoselectivity, up to 75% ee. Theoretical studies were also performed in order to elucidate the origin of the stereoselection.
INTUITIONISTIC FUZZY PRIORITIZED OPERATORS AND THEIR APPLICATION IN MULTI-CRITERIA GROUP DECISION MAKING
Authors: Yu Dejian
Published: April 2013

Intuitionistic fuzzy set is a very useful tool to depict uncertainty. Lots of multi-criteria group decision making methods under intuitionistic fuzzy environment have been developed. Current methods are under the assumption that the criteria and the decision makers are at the same priority level. However, in real group decision making problems, criteria and decision makers have different priority level commonly. In this paper, multi-criteria group decision making problems where there exists a prioritization relationship over the criteria and decision makers are studied. First, the intuitionistic fuzzy prioritized weighted average (IFPWA) and the intuitionistic fuzzy prioritized weighted geometric (IFPWG) operators are proposed. Then, some of their desirable properties are investigated in detail. Furthermore, the procedure of multi-criteria group decision making based on the proposed operators is given under intuitionistic fuzzy environment. Finally, a practical example about talent introduction is provided to illustrate the developed method.
A COMPLEX PROPORTIONAL ASSESSMENT METHOD FOR GROUP DECISION MAKING IN AN INTERVAL-VALUED INTUITIONISTIC FUZZY ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Hajiagha Seyed Hossein Razavi , Hashemi Shide Sadat , Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras
Published: April 2013

Multi-criteria decision making is an implicational field that concerns with selecting or designing the best scenarios among a finite set of scenarios based on a finite set of criteria. Different methods and techniques for handling this issue have been proposed. Complex proportional assessment is an analytical tool for solving multi-criteria decision making problems. Originally, the COPRAS method has been developed for decision making under a deterministic environment. Since uncertainty is an unavoidable property of decision making due to a lack of knowledge, this paper suggests an extended form of the COPRAS method used for group decision making problems in an uncertain environment where such uncertainty is captured through a generalized form of fuzzy sets - the so called interval valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets. An algorithmic scheme for the COPRAS-IVIF method has been introduced thus examining its application with reference to two numerical examples. It seems that the recommended framework of COPRAS-IVIF can be satisfactorily implemented in decision making problems under ambiguous and ill-defined conditions.
EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF SELF-EMPLOYMENT FACTORS ON SELF-EMPLOYMENT DURATION IN THE COUNTRY WITH TRANSITION ECONOMY: A LITHUANIAN CASE
Authors: Startienė Gražina , Remeikienė Rita
Published: April 2013

The focus of this article is the factors of self-employment duration having the bidirectional effect (positive or negative) on a self-employed person. The research of the impact of bidirectional self-employment factors on self-employment direction has been encouraged by several reasons. Firstly, the scientific literature lacks of the research to focus on the factors motivating self-employment sustainability. The more abilities a person has to sustain self-employment activity, the more benefits he brings to the country (GDP creation, increase of employment, taxes paid) and his personal environment (ensured material well-being, good psychological state, realized objectives). Secondly, realising the impact of self-employment factors on self-employment duration, the government of the country can start application of the targeted business regulation measures that can help to increase the employment rate in the country. Using the methods of expert evaluation and correlation analysis, the impact of the highlighted self-employment factors on self-employment duration in the country with transition economy (Lithuanian case) has been evaluated: self-employment development is positively influenced by financial and non-financial business promotion measures, decreasing gross domestic product (GDP), extraversion, low level of neuroticism, openness, younger people, education andmarital status defined by having older children; it is negatively influenced by inflexible labour market, high unemployment rate, high income taxes and the immigrants. The article highlights the specificity of the country with transition economy considering the fact that business environment conditions in such countries are more difficult than in industrial countries.
Etanercept Improves Lipid Profile and Oxidative Stress Measures in Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: De Sanctis Sara , Marcovecchio M. Loredana , Gaspari Stefania , Del Torto Marianna , Mohn Angelika , Chiarelli Francesco , Breda Luciana
Published: April 2013

Objective.

To investigate the effect of 1-year treatment with the anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) drug etanercept on lipid profile and oxidative stress in children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods.

Thirty children with JIA (22 females; mean age 12.3 ± SD 5.7 yrs), all eligible for anti-TNF-α treatment, were assessed at baseline and after 6- and 12-month treatment with etanercept. Disease activity was determined using the Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score (JADAS). Blood samples were drawn to measure the acute-phase reactants C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), lipids, and the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and interferon-γ. To measure the oxidative stress marker 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α, 24-h urine samples were collected.

Results.

Inflammatory indicators (CRP and ESR) and JADAS scores improved significantly after 1 year of etanercept treatment (all p < 0.001). Proinflammatory cytokines showed significant reduction during the study period (all p < 0.001). Similar reductions were detected in total cholesterol (p < 0.001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.04), and triglycerides (p < 0.001), whereas no significant change was found in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. No side effects were observed during the treatment period.

Conclusion.

This study shows for the first time that anti-TNF-α therapy for JIA is associated not only with a beneficial effect on clinical disease activity and inflammatory indexes, but also with improved lipid profile and oxidative stress. These findings suggest that TNF-α blockers might reduce atherosclerotic risk in children with JIA.
Et si le marketing devenait moins segmenté et plus inclusif ?
Authors: David-Ignatieff Arabella
Published: April 2013

La segmentation permet de regrouper les consommateurs selon des critères précis afin de mieux les cibler. Cette réflexion montre comment deux exemples de segmentation, concernant les individus âgés de plus de 50 ans et les femmes ayant un surplus de poids, peuvent conduire des entreprises à négliger ou à ostraciser des marchés rentables de consommateurs. Afin d’éviter ce genre de situation, les entreprises doivent retourner aux sources du marketing en se posant la question : « À quels besoins du consommateur notre campagne de marketing répond-elle ? » Cela mènera à des campagnes plus inclusives qui tenteront de satisfaire les besoins fondamentaux de toutes les personnes, à savoir les besoins d’identité, de relation, d’utilité, d’adaptation et d’énergie.
L'institutionnalisation de l'évaluation des politiques publiques en Wallonie : une réponse propre à des influences externes
Authors: Fyalkowski Pol , Aubin David
Published: April 2013

L’évaluation des politiques publiques représente un enjeu important dans nos sociétés confrontées à des choix complexes. En éclairant les mandataires politiques, les responsables administratifs mais aussi les citoyens sur les effets des politiques adoptées, l’évaluation peut contribuer à améliorer l’efficacité et la légitimité de l’action publique. Dans ce contexte, cet article vise à retracer et analyser le processus d’institutionnalisation de l’évaluation des politiques publiques en Wallonie en identifiant le rôle joué par trois variables explicatives : l’européanisation de l’action publique, la nouvelle gestion publique (NGP) et la crise de légitimité de l’action publique. Nos recherches tendent à montrer que les pressions externes de l’Union européenne et de l’univers de la NGP ont une influence sur l’institutionnalisation de la pratique évaluative en Wallonie.
Evaluation of resistance to aflatoxin contamination in kernels of maize genotypes using a GFP-expressingAspergillus flavus strain
Authors: Rajasekaran K. , Sickler C.M. , Brown R.L. , Cary J.W. , Bhatnagar D.
Published: April 2013

Resistance or susceptibility of maize inbreds to infection byAspergillus flavus was evaluated by the kernel screening assay. A green fluorescent protein-expressing strain ofA. flavus was used to measure fungal spread and aflatoxin levels in real-time following fungal infection of kernels. Among the four inbreds tested, MI82 showed the most resistance and Ga209 the least. TZAR101 was also resistant to fungal infection, whereas Va35 was susceptible to fungal infection. However, Va35 produced lower aflatoxin levels compared to the susceptible line Ga209. Fluorescence microscopy indicated that the site of entry of the fungus into the kernel was consistently through the pedicel. Entry through the pericarp was never observed in undamaged kernels. In view of these results, incorporation or overexpression of antifungal proteins should be targeted to the pedicel and basal endosperm region in developing kernels. Once the fungus has entered through the pedicel, it spreads quickly through the open spaces between the pericarp and the aleurone layer, ultimately colonising the endosperm and scutellum and, finally, the embryo. A clear correlation was established between fungal fluorescence and aflatoxin levels. This method provides a quick, reliable means of evaluating resistance toA. flavus in undamaged kernels and provides breeders with a rapid method to evaluate maize germplasm.
Rapid and sensitive LC-MS/MS determination of ergot alkaloids in buffered solutions: application toin vitro testing of a clay-based mycotoxin binder
Authors: Malysheva S.V. , Di Mavungu J. Diana , Schoeters E. , Larionova D.A. , Goryacheva I.Y. , De Saeger S.
Published: April 2013

A rapid liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) method was developed for the determination of ergot alkaloids in buffered solutions fromin vitro studies. The method implied a liquid-liquid extraction of the analytes under alkaline conditions prior to LC-MS/MS analysis and resulted in good recovery (91-123%) of the six ergot alkaloids defined by the European Food Safety Authority as most important, namely ergometrine, ergosine, ergotamine, ergocornine, ergokryptine and ergocristine, as well as their corresponding epimers. The method also proved to be sensitive, repeatable, linear, accurate and robust. Furthermore, the method was applied to evaluate thein vitro binding efficacy of a clay-based mycotoxin binder towards ergometrine, ergosine and ergocornine, through a design encompassing pH 3.0 and 6.8 to mimic the digestive tract. The binder demonstrated binding efficacy of 24, 93 and 97%, respectively, for these ergot alkaloids.
E-Learning Development Trends in Computer and Engineering Education
Authors: Uhomoibhi James Onohuome , Ross Margaret
Published: April 2013
Framework Entrepreneurship Process
Authors: Pires José Adriano Gomes , Peñalvo Francisco José García , Sampaio Jorge Humberto Marinho , Vázquez Rosa María Martínez
Published: April 2013

The thematic of entrepreneurship has assumed a great importance in recent times and is regarded by the governments of all countries as a lever for economic and social development of nations. Entrepreneurship is generally recognized by the process that leads to the creation of companies, and consequently, creates wealth and employment. In their genesis, entrepreneurial ventures, emerged mainly as small business, associated with creative ideas or innovative approaches implemented in most situations, using empirical processes, without major concerns with the scientific rigor that can also contribute in a sustainable way to add value to these business initiatives. In this way, together with the empirical component, resulting from the business opportunity perception by promoter, the process of setting up a business, commonly known as entrepreneurship, should follow a methodology and make use of tools and techniques best suited to each stage of the process. The perspective proposed, Framework Entrepreneurship Process, intends to position itself as a guide for business creation, which took as its starting point a particular idea with potential business leads in a systematic process of transforming it into a successful company. This framework intends to provide an integrated view of the whole process of setting up a company, while it indexes each of the different stages of the process, a set of techniques and tools, perfectly validated in scientific contexts.
Consumer-Centric Marketing Strategies
Authors: Di Pietro Loredana , Pantano Eleonora
Published: April 2013

In recent years, the increase in social network users showed new platforms for collecting data on market trends and products acceptance, as well as for supporting the relationships with clients and adapting firms’ communication strategies. As a consequence, marketers are forced to consider these systems as tool for attracting, maintaining, and managing clients in order to increase the firms’ profitability. This chapter aims at advancing our knowledge on the use of social networks, such as Facebook, as tools for improving Consumer Relationship Management, by focusing on a case study. In particular, the chapter investigates the case study of the Calabrian scenario, characterized by small-sized and family-run firms, which use traditional forms of marketing tools. Due to the ease and fast access to Web-technology-based platforms, these firms are capable of operating in a global perspective, by understanding market trends and quickly adapting their strategies. Hence, the case study of Calabrian industries can represent an interesting case study for analyzing to what extent these technologies can become a new marketing mix element for improving firms’ profitability, for both SMEs and larger firms. In particular, the adoption of Facebook by managers allows advancing our knowledge on the impact of the social networks on their marketing strategies, and on the relationships with clients. The results outline useful issues for researches and practitioners. Furthermore, the research has an interdisciplinary value, involving Psychology, Marketing, and Organizational points of view.
An Exploratory Investigation of the Barriers to the Adoption of Open Source ERP by Belgian SMEs
Authors: Ven Kris , Van Nuffel Dieter
Published: April 2013

Notwithstanding the increasing interest in open source ERP (OS-ERP) products in the past few years, their adoption by Belgian organizations is still very limited. To gain more insight into this phenomenon, we performed an exploratory investigation of which barriers inhibit the adoption of OS-ERP by Belgian SMEs. Based upon our previous research, we identified two main barriers, namely a lack of functionality and a lack of support. Next, we performed a screening of the Belgian OS-ERP market to investigate the functionality and support offered by various OS-ERP products. This allowed us to determine how the perceptions of organizations compare to the actual market for OS-ERP in Belgium. Our results provide more insight into the barriers to the adoption of OS-ERP by Belgian SMEs and provide various avenues for future research.
A Research Model for Open Innovation
Authors: Rahman Hakikur , Ramos Isabel
Published: April 2013

With the advent of innovative technologies and long the setting of entrepreneurship development philosophy, context and business handling have been transformed from being traditional to innovative. Depending on diversity and nature of the transformation, innovation has been shifted from closed peripheries to open dimension. Looking at the immense benefits, ranging from small entrepreneurs to corporate to multinational, business houses are adopting various innovation techniques. However, the road to innovation, despite being a paradigm shift is not smooth and ready for many, particularly the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) who mainly deal with the clients at the outer peripheries of the social circle. Moreover, there is a research gap within the context of SME development through open innovation strategies. This chapter intends to initiate a research model for carrying out research on the development of SMEs through utilization of open innovation strategies. Along these contexts it has tried to synthesize aspects of opportunities and challenges surrounding SMEs development utilizing open and collaborative approaches. To set the research model, the paper has developed an innovation opportunity framework, both at the policy level and at the entrepreneur level. To validate the research hypothesis, the chapter hints at carrying out a three phase survey comprising selected SMEs.
Championing SME eCollaboration
Authors: Jones Michael , Burgess Lois
Published: April 2013

Collaboration and eCollaboration are arguable necessities for firms in today’s economic age. Gone are the times when a firm could stand alone in the market warding off the competitive pressures of rival firms. Today, just the competitive forces of globalization alone are significant drivers to enable collaboration amongst rivals. The advantages of collaboration and eCollaboration for SMEs are profuse, providing small firms a measure of economic security in a world in which many industries face hyper-competition, particularly from countries with very low costs of labor. In discussing the nature and advantages of eCollaboration, the need for an eCollaboration champion becomes apparent. This case discusses eCollaboration from the perspective of 70 Australia SMEs and presents a model for the successful championship. In so doing, it discusses the multiple roles a champion must embrace and the various issues and dilemmas that are contingent to these roles.