bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Luminal Substrate “Brake” on Mucosal Maltase‐glucoamylase Activity Regulates Total Rate of Starch Digestion to Glucose
Authors: Quezada‐Calvillo Roberto , Robayo‐Torres Claudia C , Ao Zihua , Hamaker Bruce R , Quaroni Andrea , Brayer Gary D , Sterchi Erwin E , Baker Susan S , Nichols Buford L 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTBackground:Starches are the major source of dietary glucose in weaned children and adults. However, small intestine α‐glucogenesis by starch digestion is poorly understood due to substrate structural and chemical complexity, as well as the multiplicity of participating enzymes. Our objective was dissection of luminal and mucosal α‐glucosidase activities participating in digestion of the soluble starch product maltodextrin (MDx).Patients and Methods:Immunoprecipitated assays were performed on biopsy specimens and isolated enterocytes with MDx substrate.Results:Mucosal sucrase‐isomaltase (SI) and maltase‐glucoamylase (MGAM) contributed 85% of total in vitro α‐glucogenesis. Recombinant human pancreatic α‐amylase alone contributed <15% of in vitro α‐glucogenesis; however, α‐amylase strongly amplified the mucosal α‐glucogenic activities by preprocessing of starch to short glucose oligomer substrates. At low glucose oligomer concentrations, MGAM was 10 times more active than SI, but at higher concentrations it experienced substrate inhibition whereas SI was not affected. The in vitro results indicated that MGAM activity is inhibited by α‐amylase digested starch product “brake” and contributes only 20% of mucosal α‐glucogenic activity. SI contributes most of the α‐glucogenic activity at higher oligomer substrate concentrations.Conclusions:MGAM primes and SI activity sustains and constrains prandial α‐glucogenesis from starch oligomers at approximately 5% of the uninhibited rate. This coupled mucosal mechanism may contribute to highly efficient glucogenesis from low‐starch diets and play a role in meeting the high requirement for glucose during children's brain maturation. The brake could play a constraining role on rates of glucose production from higher‐starch diets consumed by an older population at risk for degenerative metabolic disorders.
Vitamin C Status in Iranian Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Evidence for Increased Utilization
Authors: Neyestani Tirang R , Fereydouni Zahra , Hejazi Sima , Salehi‐Nasab Fatemeh , Nateghifard Fariba , Maddah Mohsen , Karandish Majid 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTVitamin C status and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was assessed in 28 hospitalized patients and 30 apparently healthy control subjects. It was determined that whereas vitamin C intake in patients with ALL was more than twice as much as in controls, plasma and urinary concentrations of vitamin C were more than 10 times and 2.5 times higher in controls than in the patients with ALL, respectively (P < 0.001). Accordingly, serum TAC levels in the patients with ALL were lower than in healthy subjects (P < 0.001). Vitamin C utilization is increased in children with ALL.
Percutaneous Liver Biopsy Practice Patterns Among Pediatric Gastroenterologists in North America
Authors: Banerjee Sanjoy , Bishop Warren , Valim Clarissa , Mahoney Lisa B , Lightdale Jenifer R 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTObjectives:To document current percutaneous liver biopsy (PLB) practices among pediatric gastroenterologists.Materials and Methods:A total of 699 practicing pediatric gastroenterologists received an e‐mail invitation to participate in a Web‐based survey. Our primary outcome was whether or not pediatric gastroenterologists reported currently performing PLB. We queried a number of practice preferences and potential factors that affect preferences among all of the participants.Results:Of 474 participants who opened the e‐mail, 317 (67%) completed the survey. Of those, 35% said that they performed no PLBs in an average month, instead referring patients who require the procedure to interventional radiologists. Patient safety and desire for ultrasound guidance were rated the most important reasons for referral. Adjusted analysis showed that pediatric gastroenterologists in academic settings were twice as likely to report performing PLB as those practicing elsewhere (P = .003). The interval since fellowship training was not associated with PLB performance in crude or adjusted analyses. Among those participants who did report performing PLB, substantial variation was found in preferred biopsy device, use of ultrasound assistance, and routine hospital admission post‐PLB. No practice preferences were found to be associated with routine admission.Conclusions:Many pediatric gastroenterologists report systematically and rationally referring children to interventional radiologists for PLB, rather than performing the procedure themselves. Crude numbers suggest that many who do not perform PLB are in academic practice settings, where fellowship training is presumably affected. Those pediatric gastroenterologists who do report performing PLB vary greatly in their preprocedure, patient disposition, and postprocedure routines.
Serum and Intestinal Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV (DPP IV/CD26) Activity in Children With Celiac Disease
Authors: Detel Dijana , Peršić Mladen , Varljen Jadranka 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTObjective:Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV/CD26) is involved in the degradation of proline‐rich proteins such as gliadin and in modulation of the immune response. The aim of this study was to examine the possible causal connection between DPP IV enzyme activities and celiac disease (CD) in children.Patients and Methods:Intestinal mucosal biopsy specimens were obtained from 97 patients. The patients were divided into 3 groups: patients with active CD (n = 38), patients with malabsorption syndrome (MS) of other causes (n = 37), and control patients (n = 22). In addition, blood samples were collected from 48 patients with active CD and 50 control patients without gastrointestinal diseases. DPP IV enzyme activity was measured in the intestinal mucosal biopsy specimens and in the serum samples.Results:DPP IV activity in the small intestine correlated inversely with the grade of mucosal damage in the CD (r = −0.92, P < 0.001) and MS groups (r = −0.90, P < 0.001). Intestinal DPP IV activity was statistically significantly lower in the CD and MS groups than in the control group (P < 0.001). By contrast, serum DPP IV activity was not significantly different between the CD and control groups.Conclusions:Our results suggest that the decrease in intestinal DPP IV activity is not specific to CD because it correlates with the level of mucosal damage in both patients with CD and those with MS. In addition, it seems that serum DPP IV activity cannot be used as a specific noninvasive diagnostic or prognostic marker of CD.
Dietary Macronutrient Intake During the First 10 Years of Life in a Cohort of Italian Children
Authors: Verduci E , Radaelli G , Stival G , Salvioni M , Giovannini M , Scaglioni S 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTObjective:To describe the longitudinal pattern of dietary energy and macronutrient intakes during the first 10 years of life in a sample of healthy Italian children.Patients and Methods:Sixty‐one healthy children were followed from birth to 10 years of age. At 1, 5, 8, and 10 years of age, anthropometric measurements were taken and nutritional habits evaluated using a standardized food frequency questionnaire.Results:Compared to the Italian recommended dietary allowances, the children's diet was high in protein at any age, high in lipids from age 5 onward, and high in calories at 5 years of age. At 1 year, mean (SD) protein, carbohydrate, and lipid intake, expressed as percentage of total energy, was 20% (3%), 48% (7%), and 34% (5%), respectively. Afterward, the corresponding mean value ranged around 14% to 15%, 57% to 60%, and 29% to 32%. The mean glycemic load and overall glycemic index ranged around 143 to 150 and 58 to 59, respectively. A difference between boys and girls was found in the longitudinal pattern for the intake of energy (P < 0.0001) and glycemic load (P < 0.0001). The individual longitudinal dietary pattern varied over time for the intake of total energy (P < 0.0001), any macronutrient (P < 0.0001), and overall glycemic index (P = 0.05).Conclusions:Although the amount of energy intake was in accordance with the Italian recommended dietary allowances, children consumed a high‐protein and high‐lipid diet. Early and continuous dietary education of children and parents may provide support for adequate nutritional habits throughout their childhood.
Correlation between the corrosivity of naphthenic acids and their chemical structures
Authors: Qu Ding‐Rong , Zheng Yu‐Gui , Jiang Xiu , Ke Wei 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe objective of the present work was to study the influence of chemical compositions of five naphthenic acids (NAs) extracted from Liaohe crude oil on their corrosivity.Design/methodology/approachFourier‐transform infrared spectrometry and electron impact mass spectrometry were used to characterize the chemical structures and compositions if five NAs. The corrosivities of the NAs were assessed by stagnant NA corrosion (NAC) tests. An attempt was made to identify any correlation between the chemical composition of the NAs and their corrosiveness.FindingsThe acidic species in all five NA samples were saturated aliphatic and naphthenic acids and the amount of aromatic and unsaturated acids was negligible. A relationship between the carboxylic acid distribution and the molecular weight was obtained. Most of the carboxylic acids in five NAs contained 0‐3 ring structures. NAs with lower molecular weight and fewer ring structures usually were more corrosive.Originality/valueThe findings have important implications for assessing the corrosivity of acidic crude oils from various resources.
Corrosion behaviours of several thermal spray coatings used on boiler tubes at elevated temperatures
Authors: Rezakhani D. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeFour thermal spray coatings were subjected to high temperature corrosive environments of oil‐fired boiler conditions to compare their corrosion protection under simulated conditions. The coatings included FeCrAl, Tafaloy 45CT, which were arc‐sprayed, 50Ni‐50Cr and Cr3C2‐NiCr, which were coated by high velocity oxy fuel spray (HVOF) method.Design/methodology/approachThe coating substrates used were SA213TP 347H, SA213 T11 and SA213 T22 alloys that are widely used as boiler tube materials. Specimens were covered with a synthetic ash mixture of 70 per cent V2O5‐20 per cent Na2SO4‐10 per cent NaCl and exposed to 550°C and 650oC°for 192 h (6 cycles). After high temperature corrosion tests, weight change curves were obtained; specimens were examined by metallographical techniques, scanning electron microscopy and EDX analyses.FindingsSalt deposits attacked steels and coatings during the exposure. The corrosion rates were strongly affected by the composition of the scale formed adjacent to the steels and coatings surfaces. Austenitic steel was only bare material that experienced uniform corrosion in the tests. Ferritic steels were primarily attacked by grain boundary corrosion. Thermally sprayed coatings were mainly attached through oxides and voids at splat boundaries. FeCrAl and 50Ni‐50Cr were prone to spalling. Tafaloy 45CT is also a promising method for producing homogenous coatings. Cr3C2‐NiCr 80/20 coating remained mostly intact.Originality/valueThis paper provides useful information about corrosion behaviours of four coatings used for common boiler tubes. It shows with a practical explanation how the bare material and coatings react in corrosion simulated environments.
ABB high‐speed picking robots establish themselves in food packaging
Authors: Connolly Christine 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo report some successful applications of vision‐controlled robots in picking and packing of foodstuffs.Design/methodology/approachThe design and capabilities of ABB's two picking robots are explained, and the specialist software that integrates vision guidance and product inspection. Then two food‐picking applications are described in detail.FindingsThe delta robot design combines low weight with high stiffness, giving very fast picking capability. The Cognex‐based vision system also produces high speed and precision, and is able to guide the robot and perform 100 per cent inspection in real time. Hygienic robot design allows it to handle open food.Practical implicationsABB's FlexPicker robot has moved from being a niche product to a volume product, bringing high‐speed picking capability to a wider market.Originality/valueShowcases the capability and flexibility of a powerful vision‐guided high‐speed robot.
An introduction to computational intelligence techniques for robot control
Authors: Bullinaria John A. , Li Xiaoli 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss the application of computational intelligence techniques to the field of industrial robot control.Design/methodology/approachThe core ideas behind using neural computation, evolutionary computation, and fuzzy logic techniques are presented, along with a selection of specific real‐world applications.FindingsTheir practical advantages and disadvantages relative to more traditional approaches are made clear.Originality/valueThe reader will appreciate the power of computational intelligence techniques for industrial robot control, and hopefully be encouraged to explore further the possibility of using them to achieve improved performance in their own applications.
The robot reliability design and improvement method and the advanced Toyota production system
Authors: Sakai Hirohisa , Amasaka Kakuro 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo demonstrate the theory and effectiveness of reliability‐improvement countermeasures for line equipment, specifically industrial robots for automotive production engineering.Design/methodology/approachSuggests an efficient method of life‐cycle maintenance. The defects of industrial robots are analysed using Weibull analysis.FindingsFrom the analysis, a strategy of countermeasures is framed for component screening, reliability design and lifetime estimation.Originality/valueThis method has been implemented worldwide in Toyota's factories, and has produced a better operating life cycle for industrial robots.
Industrial robot track modeling and vibration suppression
Authors: Tao WeiMin , Zhang MingJun , Ma Ou , Yun XiaoPing 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the vibration suppression of industrial track robot and propose a practical solution.Design/methodology/approachRoot‐cause analysis through dynamic modeling, and vibration suppression using the acceleration smoother.FindingsThe vibration is due to insufficient damping based on the model analysis. The solution achieved significant performance improvement without redesign of robot hardware and controller.Research limitations/implicationsThe design of the proposed acceleration smoother is still empirical based, which is unable to achieve optimal design.Practical implicationsThis solution is very easy to implement. It is robust, reliable and is able to generate consistent results.Originality/valueA very practical industrial solution, especially useful for upgrading the existing systems in the field without redesign the hardware and controller.
End‐to‐end business process scenarios
Authors: Frye Douglas W. , Gulledge Thomas R. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeEnterprise integration endeavors are complex because they compel an organization to understand how its cross‐organizational business processes are enabled by multiple systems. For any large‐scale implementation project, specific business process and system information is included in the enterprise‐solution architecture. To understand the totality of any organization's business processes, managers must define and document all core and support processes.Design/methodology/approachThe examples used in this paper are from large public sector organizations, but the underlying methodology and conceptual basis for the paper apply to any complex organization.FindingsThe main conclusion of this paper is that end‐to‐end (E2E) business process scenarios must be used for defining the requirements for any system implementation project in any organization. If the new system does not align with the E2E‐business processes, then management requirements cannot be realized. We also note that E2E scenarios must be considered when implementing enterprise software in a non‐enterprise environment.Originality/valueThe paper notes that E2E scenarios represent the requirements definition level for composite applications enabled in a service‐oriented architecture (SOA). Traditional implementation methodologies that enable standard software modules (or integration scenarios across modules) are not effective in non‐enterprise environments.
Testing resource‐based propositions about IS sourcing decisions
Authors: Alvarez‐Suescun Emilio 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis research analyzes and tests the impact of some resource‐based determinants on sourcing decisions in an IS domain.Design/methodology/approachBy applying the insights provided by the resource‐based view of the firm, some hypotheses to explain sourcing decisions regarding the implementation of an information system was developed. These hypotheses are tested in a specific functional area – human resources – using binomial logistic models. Primary data was collected through a survey of large Spanish firms.FindingsResults confirm that HRIS implementation capabilities, and not the mere set of technical skills, play a major role in sourcing decisions. However, only when a specific level of both experience in that function and relationship between client and provider teams is reached will these capabilities allow the firm to outperform competitors and become a key determinant of the governance mode. Support for the influence of the strategic contribution of the HRIS was also found.Originality/valueUnlike prior research, which stopped with the theoretical application of a resource‐based perspective to explain IS sourcing decisions, the author takes things a step further and operationalizes its insights. By using the IS function as the unit of analysis, a theoretically derived multidimensional measure of IS implementation capability was developed. Moreover, timing issues was considered when measuring this concept.
An improved process model for internal auditing
Authors: Elliott Michael , Dawson Ray , Edwards Janet 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo investigate and understand the reasons why internal auditing is often perceived to not add value. This paper describes the development of a new process model and approach that will improve the actual and perceived value of auditing.Design/methodology/approachProcess analysis, identified areas of potential inefficiency and conflict. The literature review identified the standards and guidance that influence the way internal auditing is managed and its current trends. A questionnaire was sent to auditors and auditees at AWE Plc., to gain their views on audit effectiveness and quantify their perception of value.FindingsQuestionnaire results show variations in the perceived value of internal auditing, particularly of some key stages in the process. The management of internal auditing is too focused on programme achievement, not the resulting value from improvement action.Research limitations/implicationsThe new process model has yet to be tried in practice, and this identifies an area of future research. It is envisaged that some additional audit preparation would be required, and the time taken to conduct an audit may also increase slightly. The financial benefits quoted by applying the new model would be estimated and may require some justification.Practical implicationsThe new model should improve audit effectiveness and its perceived value as the focus changes from simply undertaking an audit, to demonstrating its actual financial value. It has the potential to significantly influence the way both internal and external auditing is conducted in the future.Originality/valueThe improved process model and cost‐benefit audit methodology approach was found to be unique within the scope of the literature review.
Organizational risk in large audit firms
Authors: Jeppesen Kim K. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe main purpose of the paper is to analyze and discuss organizational risk in large‐audit firms. A secondary purpose is to contribute to auditing theory on how organizational risk may be analyzed.Design/methodology/approachThe study is conducted as a review of literature on audit‐firm organization, risk management, professions and organization theory.FindingsLarge‐audit firms are commonly organized as partnerships relying on hierarchy and standardization of work processes to control work. The paper argues that this may be an effective way of organizing audit work in a stable environment. In a volatile environment, however, the strategy becomes highly risky.Research limitations/implicationsThe focus of the paper is on the organization of large‐audit firms and its findings do, therefore, not necessarily apply to small audit firms. The paper presents a general view of the way large‐audit firms are organized and controlled. Local variations may occur but these are not analyzed in the paper.Practical implicationsThe paper analyzes the inherent organizational risk of the common way of organizing audit work and is therefore of direct interest to partners and other professionals in large‐audit firms. It may also be seen as an example of how organizational‐risk analysis can be applied in the audit process and it discusses the competences needed to perform such analysis. In this respect, the paper is also of interest to practicing auditors as well as teachers and students of auditing.Originality/valueMost of the literature on the organization of large‐audit firms is relatively old and this paper seeks to update and critically reinterpret knowledge in the area. It also contributes to an understanding on how to apply organizational‐risk analysis in the audit process.
The business of business law
Authors: Gale Chris 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe article aims to show the need for business students to receive a relevant introduction to law.Design/methodology/approachThis article is an opinion piece based on current and recent trends.FindingsThe article finds that the feeling of the disinterested teaching the disengaged is emerging.Originality/valueExpresses the view that there is a need to ensure that students are getting a relevant introduction to law so that they may be equipped for further legal study enervated by their first brushes with the discipline. This will make them better business employees and managers in due course.