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Ultrafast time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy has been used to investigate the excited-state dynamics of the basic eumelanin building block 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid (DHICA), its acetylated, methylated, and carboxylic ester derivatives, and two oligomers, a dimer and a trimer in the O-acetylated forms. The results show that (1) excited-state decays are faster for the trimer relativ
Cyclic AMP potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin release and mediates the stimulatory effects of hormones such as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) on pancreatic b-cells. By inhibition of cAMP-degrading phosphodiesterase (PDE) and, in particular, selective inhibition of PDE3 activity, stimulatory effects on insulin secretion have been observed. Molecular and functional information on b-cell PDE3 is
Heparan sulfate 3-O-sulfotransferase transfers sulfate to the 3-OH position of a glucosamine residue of heparan sulfate (HS) to form 3-O-sulfated HS. The 3-O-sulfated glucosamine residue contributes to two important biological functions of HS: binding to antithrombin and thereby carrying anticoagulant activity, and binding to herpes simplex viral envelope glycoprotein D to serve as an entry recept
In this paper, which was prepared as part of IEA Bioenergy Task XV (“Greenhouse Gas Balances of Bioenergy Systems”), we outline a standard methodology for comparing the greenhouse gas balances of bioenergy systems with those of fossil energy systems. Emphasis is on a careful definition of system boundaries. The following issues are dealt with in detail: time interval analysed and changes of carbon
So far, the use of epostane, a relatively new inhibitor of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/delta 5-delta 4 isomerase enzyme system (3 beta-HSD), has been confined to short-term interference with luteal and placental function. This study explored whether epostane treatment from the beginning of the cycle for approximately 1 month would also inhibit ovarian follicular function. Twenty females wi
Many paleoceanographic reconstructions of the glacial North Atlantic include estimates of iceberg discharge, which are based on the variable abundance of ice-rafted detritus (IRD) in deep-sea sediments. IRD abundance is most often determined by the mechanical separation and painstaking counting of terrigenous particles larger than a specified threshold grain size, typically 150 mum. Here we presen
This paper analyses a recognition of prior learning (RPL) placement process where health care assistants' prior learning is recognised through dialogue with and observation by tutors. This process is part of a procedure that uses RPL for accreditation through the administration of an in-service training program in the health care sector. The aim of the reconstructive analysis in this paper is to e
The overall aim of this thesis is to examine how walking as a transport mode is constructed in the planning realm, affected by the built environment and perceived by the individual. This aim is related to the following research questions: (1) How are pedestrians and walking understood, constructed and perceived in the planning context? (2) How does individual traits and the built environment affec
Abstract: Administrative regions do not necessarily correspond to areas that are homogenous in terms of innovation intensity. Although this has been recognized in the literature, quantitative evidence that explicitly considers this problem is rare. Using spatial exploratory analysis on detailed regional data derived from a census of R&D performers in the Czech Republic, we identify local spati
The aim of this research is to critically investigate and analyze the possible links between the emerging paradigm of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable tourism, as well if it can be considered for further improvements of mass tourism planning and management in the islands of the Bahamas. This study enquires into the Bahamas’ relative history of mass tourism, the role of mass to
This research shows the impact of credit rating change (thereafter CRC) announcements on the combined entities following mergers and acquisitions. In looking at the effect of CRC announcements on share prices, we measure the level of influence that a credit upgrade or downgrade has on the equity value of firms. Existing literature disputes the applicability of share price as a measure of value cre
Nowadays, innovation and technological development are considered as crucial for the development and economic growth of regions and nations. Knowledge interactions hold a central position in the innovation process. In line with this, researchers as well as politicians emphasize that knowledge interactions need to be facilitated. This approach has been adapted to the cross-border regional context a
Scientists estimate that in order to contain global warming below 2°C, only around 900 GtCO2, can be emitted between 2013 and 2050. Recent research shows that in order to meet this target, global demand for fossil fuels has to decline. In their 2014 report, The Carbon Tracker Initiative calculated that a global emission restriction in accordance with the 2-degree target would require a market pric
The aim of this thesis is to analyze the impact of China’s entry into the WTO on European banks’ market access in China and Chinese banks’ market access in the EU. To answer the above question the best way of research is to make a survey from the industry’s perspective. In the legal part, I made a broad analysis of banking legislation for market access in the EU and China. In the business part, pr
Noting increasing ethos of free choice on childcare decisions, this study examines the implications of cash-for-childcare on women’s gender equality in the Korean welfare state. In order to do so, this study used the mixed methods analysis for looking at care responsibility and the women with young children’s decisions for cash-for-childcare, respectively. From quantitative phase, this study demon
This thesis discusses ethical consumption with a focus on individual’s identity, the notion of reflexivity and the importance of information in being an ethical consumer in a globalized world. The concepts of reflexivity, habitus, self- and social identities are reviewed. Using hermeneutic approach to analysis of in-depth semi-structured interviews of individuals who identify themselves as ethical
