bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do stakeholders matter in strategic decision making of a sports organization?
Authors: Miragaia Dina Alexandra Marques , Ferreira João , Carreira André
Published: November 2014

This study aims to identify and prioritize the stakeholders involved in making decisions in a sports organization. A multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess the influence of the attributes of power, legitimacy and urgency on the salience of the various stakeholders. The results showed a convergence of external and internal decision makers' perceptions, concerning the three main stakeholder groups: top management, sponsors and member association. Pearson correlations identified four types of stakeholder: definitive, dangerous, demanding and non-stakeholders. A generalized differentiation was also found in stakeholder classification, regarding evaluation of attributes, between external and internal decision makers. In addition, the study suggests the success of organizations' management will depend on correct identification of stakeholders and consequent assessment of their relevance, in order to highlight who should get priority, and how, in strategic decision making.
Dependence relationship between the critical quality factors and social impact
Authors: Álvarez García José , Cruz Del Río Rama María de la , Vila Alonso Mercedes , Fraiz Brea José Antonio
Published: November 2014

This paper shows the results of the empirical study conducted in 186 tourist accommodation businesses in Spain certified under the "Q for Tourist Quality", own System Quality Management. It was raised with the purpose of analyzing the structure of the relationship between critical quality factors and results-social impact, how they operate and the level of their influence on obtaining these results within the company. Starting from a deep theoretical revision we propose a theoretical model together with the hypotheses to be tested, and we proceed to validation using the technique of Structural Equation Models. The results obtained show that companies wishing to improve their social impact should take into account that leadership is the most important factor to achieve it. Leadership indirectly affects the social impact through its influence on alliances and resources, quality policy/planning, personnel management and learning.
Aplicação da análise envoltória de dados (AED) na avaliação da eficiência operacional relativa entre usinas de cana-de-açúcar no território brasileiro
Authors: Salgado Junior Alexandre P. , Carlucci Fabio V. , Novi Juliana C.
Published: November 2014

Este estudo tem por objetivo analisar o impacto das variáveis tamanho e localização na eficiência operacional de usinas de cana-de-açúcar no Brasil na safra 2008/2009. Para tanto, realizou-se um estudo de eficiência operacional, por meio da aplicação da Análise Envoltória de Dados (AED), na qual foi possível identificar as usinas mais eficientes dentre um universo de 355 e classificá-las por tamanho e localização. A análise quantitativa sugere que existe maior concentração de usinas classificadas como eficientes e de tamanho grande, localizadas no estado de São Paulo. Objetivando uma análise em profundidade, foi realizado um estudo de múltiplos casos em um grupo de usinas. Conclui-se que a eficiência operacional de usinas de cana-de-açúcar depende da variável tamanho, na medida em que as usinas de maior porte tendem a investir mais em tecnologias que proporcionam maior ganho de eficiência operacional. A eficiência também depende da variável localização, na medida em que o estado de São Paulo apresenta condições edafoclimáticas mais favoráveis à extração de uma cana-de-açúcar com maior teor de sacarose, que, consequentemente, pode influenciar na eficiência operacional de usinas de cana-de-açúcar.
Para uma clínica do uso de álcool e drogas com adolescentes das comunidades do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Fernandes Francisco Leonel F.
Published: November 2014

Analisando circunstâncias e elementos clínicos paradigmáticos, constata-se que as trajetórias de jovens das comunidades populares no que se refere a problemas com a Lei por uso e tráfico de drogas são, na verdade, típicas, isto é: indicam, sob eventos meramente singulares, uma produção intensa e institucionalizada desses jovens enquanto "foras da lei". Omitir esta dimensão do problema pode tornar a pesquisa científica aliada de estruturas que produzem delinquência. No entanto, uma prática derivada da clínica psicanalítica e amparada por uma reflexão sobre a institucionalidade questiona como a relação que esses adolescentes constroem com sua própria palavra nas instâncias de tratamento pode deslocar esses mecanismos institucionais.
O abuso de substâncias tóxicas na adolescência: uma tentativa de incorporação do objeto?
Authors: Zornig Silvia Maria Abu-Jamra
Published: November 2014

Procura-se discutir a função do objeto na adolescência a partir de um fragmento clínico em que a relação aos objetos se dá por uma lógica incorporativa que impede o acesso às experiências de introjeção e aos processos de simbolização. Apesar de a adolescência ser definida por alguns autores psicanalistas como um momento lógico de apropriação subjetiva e confronto com a castração e a finitude, este texto procura ressaltar a importância do acompanhamento 'vivo' do analista para que o investimento do vazio possa se dar sem angústia de aniquilamento.
Dependência e adolescência: a recusa da diferença
Authors: Cardoso Marta Rezende
Published: November 2014

Este artigo é dedicado à problemática da dependência psíquica na adolescência a partir de dois eixos de análise: a relação eu/outro e a polaridade interioridade/exterioridade. A experiência de separação do objeto está implicada nessa passagem da vida infantil à vida adulta, vertente central da questão da dependência, em particular nas adições. Pretende-se mostrar o caráter paradoxal do processo de separação na adolescência, seu núcleo primário e edipiano em cujo entrelaçamento situa-se o fundamento de seus impasses. A dependência patológica é marcante na contemporaneidade. Na busca de um prazer absoluto, o sujeito tende a se ver numa situação de isolamento o qual poderá ser mascarado pelo estabelecimento de um elo passional com o objeto.
Dépendance aux images et élaboration de la violence
Authors: Houssier Florian
Published: November 2014

Dans cet article, l'auteur explore l'usage des images violentes dans un jeu vidéo en interrogeant la fonction métapsychologique des images à l'adolescence. A partir de l'exposé d'un cas clinique, une discussion s'ouvre sur la différence entre le retrait sur les objets internes et l'importance des rêveries adolescentes que le jeu vidéo prolongerait, au service du processus adolescent.
Olhares e reflexões contemporâneas sobre o triângulo sociedade-educação-tecnologias e suas influências no ensino das ciências
Authors: Morais Carla , Paiva João
Published: November 2014

Quando se combinam termos como sociedade, educação e tecnologias, parece destacar-se a ideia de que as tecnologias têm sido associadas a algumas das mais expressivas mudanças ocorridas na sociedade do século XX e início do século XXI, e têm sido relatadas como capazes de influenciar aspetos diversos e significativos da realidade social, a ponto de alguns autores dizerem que estamos perante uma nova forma de organização da sociedade e do sistema econômico, à qual o sistema educativo deveria procurar corresponder, adequando-se. Neste artigo, apresentam-se algumas perspetivas e olhares que julgamos úteis para alavancar uma reflexão sustentada e projetiva sobre o passado, o presente e o futuro das inter-relações entre as esferas social, educativa e tecnológica e as possíveis influências daí decorrentes para o ensino das ciências. Assim, de forma mais descritiva, importa referir que este artigo é constituído por cinco tópicos que julgamos relevantes para consubstanciar a reflexão sobre a temática em apreço. Começando por apresentar algumas considerações sobre a sociedade da informação, a metáfora da rede e o potencial coletivo, segue-se um enfoque nas tecnologias e na sua relação com as "escolas que aprendem". Na medida em que o letramento digital não se esgota na competência tecnológica, a instituição escolar - e os seus agentes pode assumir um papel de mediação entre os desafios da sociedade do conhecimento e as novas gerações. Nesse contexto de interdependências múltiplas, termina-se o artigo com algumas reflexões sobre a educação em ciência, o ensino das ciências e o letramento científico na sociedade da informação.
Diagnóstico de competências individuais de tutores que atuam na modalidade a distância
Authors: Borges João Paulo Fonseca , Coelho Junior Francisco Antonio , Faiad Cristiane , Rocha Natália Ferreira da
Published: November 2014

Neste trabalho, considera-se que a educação a distância (EaD) tem representado papel imprescindível à aquisição de competências por parte de aprendizes nos cenários nacional e internacional. O papel dos tutores é estratégico à sua efetividade, especialmente no que tange a competências técnicas, relativas ao uso do ambiente virtual de aprendizagem (AVA), e comportamentais, estimulando o aprendiz a se comprometer e a não evadir. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo geral diagnosticar, empiricamente, competências individuais (técnicas e comportamentais) necessárias ao desempenho efetivo da função de tutor no ensino a distância no âmbito da Universidade Aberta do Brasil (UAB). Por meio de dois estudos, foi realizada triangulação de dados, que envolveu fase qualitativa, composta por análise documental, entrevistas e grupos de foco (Estudo 1), e fase quantitativa, com aplicação de questionário fechado (Estudo 2). O tratamento dos dados qualitativos foi feito por análise de conteúdo, e dos dados quantitativos, por meio de análise estatística. A amostra (N=200) foi predominantemente feminina, atuando há pelo menos dois anos com tutoria. Os resultados apontaram baixas lacunas de competência, o que indica que as atividades de captação, treinamento e desenvolvimento de competências provavelmente têm sido realizadas de forma condizente com as necessidades das atribuições dos tutores. Sugere-se, para pesquisas futuras, a investigação com maior número de participantes, de modo a permitir análises estatísticas mais complexas.
Perícia contábil e a “Justiça entre iguais”
Authors: Hoog Wilson Alberto Zappa
Published: November 2014

Apresenta-se uma breve análise sobre o sentido e a importância das demandas judiciais, tendo como referência a frase: a justiça só se faz entre iguais. A pesquisa está lastreada em ensinamentos filosóficos que evidenciam o seu objetivo principal, estratégias e táticas em demandas, com a participação de perito-contador na assistência dos litigantes. Neste estudo tem-se a arte da guerra, como um ferramental a corroborar para o aumento da possibilidade do êxito. Conclui-se neste labor que, para o resultado de uma demanda judicial, não se pode admitir, como verdade absoluta, a existência da justiça em sua plenitude social-econômica, mas sim, o direito e uma segurança jurídica em sua plenitude social-econômica, ainda que o espírito das leis possa ser impuro, pois fatores podem alterar a boa intenção das normas jurídicas, como a falta de sabedoria ou os interesses de grupos que dizem “ser a mola que move os congressistas que aprovam as Leis”.
As melhores práticas de controladoria: o balanced scorecard como ferramenta de gestão
Authors: Carpes Antonio M. da Silva , Pertuzatti Elizandra , Merlo Roberto Aurélio
Published: November 2014

As constantes mudanças no ambiente competitivo moderno exigem cada vez mais o aprimoramento dos sistemas de informações. O estudo apresenta o Balanced Scorecard (BSC) e discute sua importância como uma ferramenta de gestão que desafia a empresa e tem por objetivo apresentar uma proposta de avaliação estratégica, fundamentada no conceito de Balanced Scorecard, alinhada às estratégias das empresas objeto de estudo. Como objetivos específicos buscou-se conceituar o BSC como instrumento de gestão, caracterizar as empresas objeto de estudo, identificar a missão, a visão e a estratégia respectivas, para aplicar os meios disponíveis, alinhados àquelas estratégias. Para atingir esses objetivos, utilizou-se pesquisa exploratória, por meio de um estudo multicaso, com abordagem qualitativa. A pesquisa de campo envolveu três empresas do Estado de Santa Catarina, por meio de entrevistas semi-estruturadas em que foram identificadas as necessidades e as informações necessárias para a proposta de um conjunto de indicadores estratégicos do BSC. Os resultados da pesquisa evidenciam a importância do BSC como ferramenta de gestão.
Stochastic dynamics of a warmer Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Cooper Jennifer K. , Spencer Matthew , Bruno John F.
Published: November 2014

Pressure on natural communities from human activities continues to increase. Even unique ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), that until recently were considered near‐pristine and well‐protected, are showing signs of rapid degradation. We collated recent (1996–2006) spatiotemporal relationships between benthic community composition on the GBR and environmental variables (ocean temperature and local threats resulting from human activity). We built multivariate models of the effects of these variables on short‐term dynamics, and developed an analytical approach to study their long‐term consequences. We used this approach to study the effects of ocean warming under different levels of local threat. Observed short‐term changes in benthic community structure (e.g., declining coral cover) were associated with ocean temperature (warming) and local threats. Our model projected that, in the long term, coral cover of less than 10% was not implausible. With increasing temperature and/or local threats, corals were initially replaced by sponges, gorgonians, and other taxa, with an eventual moderately high probability of domination (>50%) by macroalgae when temperature increase was greatest (e.g., 3.5°C of warming). Our approach to modeling community dynamics, based on multivariate statistical models, enabled us to project how environmental change (and thus local and international policy decisions) will influence the future state of coral reefs. The same approach could be applied to other systems for which time series of ecological and environmental variables are available.
Risk Factors for Early Postoperative Complications after Surgery for Crohn's Disease
Authors: Joksimović Vladimir , Karagjozov Aleksandar , Jota Gjorgi , Milev Ilija , Gelevski Radomir
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to show the influence of various risk factors on early postoperative complications following surgery for Crohn’s disease (CD). In this review, an online internet database was searched, and also systematic review of the literature was performed. Three different studies from different countries were analyzed and compared with the results obtained in our University Clinic of Digestive Surgery - Skopje. The first review shows the influence of positive resection margins in CD on septical complications occurrence in patients undergoing ileocolic resection for CD at the Tel Aviv Medical Centre - Israel. The second review shows the risk factors for complications after bowel surgery in Korean patients with CD using data from the Asan Medical Centre - Seul, Korea. The third review shows that the delay of surgery is associated with inferior postoperative outcome in patients treated for perforating Crohn’s ileitis, and the study was conducted using data from the medical records of patients treated at the Department of Surgery at the University of Regensburg, Germany. Finally, we analyzed the influence of the most common risk factors on early postoperative complications in patients that underwent surgery for Crohn’s disease in a five-year period at the University Clinic of Digestive Surgery in Skopje, Macedonia and compared them with the results in the aforementioned articles.
Thelazia Callipaeda and Eye Infections
Authors: Otašević Suzana , Božinović Marija Trenkić , Tasić Aleksandar , Petrović Aleksandar , Petrović Vladimir
Published: November 2014

Eye infections can be caused by metazoans - helminths and for long this parasitosis was believed to spread only in tropical regions of the world. Lately, mostly subconjunctival infections of adults or immature forms of D. repens, which is nematoda- filaria of canids, have been described and the man is just an accidental host. The genus Thelazia (Spirurida, Thelaziidae) comprises a cosmopolitan group of eye worm spirurids responsible for eye infections of domestic and wild animals and humans, carried by different kinds of flies. Nematodes localized in the conjunctival space, lacrimal canals and surrounding ocular tissues of humans can cause symptoms from mild to very serious and severe ones if not treated. The chief aim of this paper was to describe the morphological characteristics, life cycle, prevalence and clinical significance of Thelazia spp. as a parasite of the eye. To ensure the diagnosis of thelasiosis and appropriate treatment, it is necessary to have continuing medical reports and increase the awareness of this infection.
The establishment and significance of district/regional roof cadastres in the utilization of solar energy
Authors: Szalontai Lajos
Published: November 2014

After its establishment, the roof cadastre - solar cadastre I wish to introduce in this article will form a database, with the help of which we will be able to analyse solar radiation factors on the local level (street, house), and a map display will also be available. Through the implementation of the appropriate methods, we can establish roof/solar cadastres on the settlement/district/regional level and these can help to increase the rate of utilization of renewable energy sources.
Mechanical Damage to Chickpea Seeds as Affected by Npk Fertilization
Authors: Shahbazi F. , Falah S. , Eisvand H.R.
Published: November 2014

The aim of research was to determine the effect of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizers onthe some physical properties and mechanical damage to chickpea seeds under impact. The martial for tests was from a field experiment with varied levels fertilization with nitrogen (0 and 50 kg/ha, N), phosphorus (0 and 100 kg/ha, P2O5) and potassium (0 and 100 kg/ha, K2O). The variation of the mechanical damage was analyzed depending on the mode of varied fertilization, seed moisture content and impact energy. It was found that the chickpea seeds were bigger with NPK supply. The effects of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers rates on the mechanical damage to chickpea seeds was significant at 1% probability level (P<0.01) and increased its hardness and resilience therefore caused the better resistance to impact damage. Potassium fertilization ratehad the most influence and phosphorus fertilization rate had the least. The effect of the nitrogen fertilizer rate was not significant (P>0.05). Harvesting chickpea seeds at higher moisture content and lower impact energy should give lower breakage when NPK is supplied, as well as when no NPK is supplied.
Estimation of Quality Deterioration in Different Rice Genotypes Infested by Tribolium Castaneum (Herbst) Under a Biotic Stress
Authors: Khaliq A. , Sagheer M. , Javed M.
Published: November 2014

Rice being a major crop of Pakistan contributes major part of our economy and provides energy to a major population. So study was carried out to determine potential of nutritive losses in six rice genotypes against red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) at 28°C, 32°C and 35°C. For nutritive losses, crude protein, fiber, ash and moisture content was analyzed through proximate analysis after 90 days of beetle infestation. Results deduced from the present findings shown significantly (P < 0.05) substantial variations in nutritional composition of rice grains in some advanced rice genotypes when exposed to artificial infestation of red flour beetle. High moisture content was observed in KSK-133 and Basmati-2006 as compared to KSK-282. Loss in crude fat and protein were maximum in KSK-282 and minimum in KSK-133 and Basmati-2006. Crude fiber was significantly (P < 0.05) high where insect infestation was low and least value where maximum infestation caused by insect. Ash content was severely affected by destructive activity of insects in all genotypes. In aggregate qualitative losses were significantly (P < 0.05) high in KSK- 133, Basmati-2006 and Basmati-515 and low in Basmati-385 and KSK-133 proving susceptible and resistance respectability, respectively. Findings should be incorporate in breeding programme and can also be helpful in post-harvest storage.
National diversity versus citizenship as social capital exemplified by Polish families living in the Vilnius Region
Authors: Szerląg Alicja
Published: November 2014

National diversity within one statehood generates number of problems that determine not only the quality of social relations but also the cultural self-identification of the members of culturally diverse communities, affecting the sense and range of their civic commitments. As a consequence, it concerns social capital of a multinational state. Therefore, exploring the quality of social relations of national provenance, specificity of the national dualism along with their cultural and socialisational consequences shall all be recognized necessary for conceptualisation of social capital in a multinational society. The presented research results allowed to outline the specificity of the cultural diversification in Lithuania, distance and recognition of national provenance, significant for the researched areas of their everyday functioning accompanied by cultural interspersion and family socialisation. The proposed conclusions provide foundation for description of the specificity of social capital of nationally diverse local communities.
Love knows no boundaries. The study of contemporary Czech-Polish family relations inspired by the documentary entitled "Para mieszana"
Authors: Ładyżyński Andrzej
Published: November 2014

The article discusses Polish documentary film “Para mieszana” (“Mixed couple”). Film was released in 2005, directed by Kinga Dębska and Lenka Wimmerová. The document shows episodes of everyday life of four mixed couples living together in Czech Republic and Poland. Their life is shown on many levels: marriage, family and career. Every couple is in different stage of live, dealing with various difficulties. The article presents interpretation of family structure, language and space of their living activities as well as their world of values.
Frequency of movement in bed to assess risk of pressure ulcer – A systematized review / Häufigkeit von Bewegung im Bett zur Einschätzung der Dekubitusgefährdung – Eine systematisierte Übersichtsarbeit
Authors: Panfil Eva-Maria , Volmajer Zdenka , Taeymans Jan
Published: November 2014

The key criteria for identification of pressure ulcer risk are mobility and activity. In practice and research, it is currently not possible to assess these criteria with reliable instruments. New technical methods allow a quantified metric measurement of the mobility of patients lying in bed. However, it is unclear how to interpret such data. Therefore, the aim of this systematized literature review was to identify (i) reference values for frequencies of movements during sleep, and (ii) critical values for the clinical diagnosis of pressure ulcer risk. A literature search was conducted in the MedLine, CINAHL, Trip Database, the Cochrane Library, PEDro, Google Scholar databases and by handsearching the reference lists of eligible manuscripts for the period 2008-2013. One review and nine primary studies were selected. Pressure ulcer risk studies showed poor methodological quality while they showed a high heterogeneity of the measurement methods for the detection of movement during sleep. This observed heterogeneity did not allow to compare the study results. Less studies reported reference values compared to studies reporting correlations with pathological conditions such as sleep quality and pressure ulcer risk. After critically reviewing the studies, no valid data on the frequency of movement during sleep and on critical values for the clinical diagnosis of pressure ulcer risk was found. To interpret the results of a new measurement method and its efficacy, more diagnostic studies and high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed.
Innovation in Hungary - The Impact of EU Accession and Integration into Global Value Chains
Authors: Szalavetz Andrea
Published: November 2014

This paper argues that EU accession has brought about minimal changes in the patterns of innovation in Hungary. The reason why is not that the ‘EU factor’ is of minor importance; rather, it is Hungary's inability to use EU resources effectively, so as to fully benefit from EU membership. The Hungarian story also demonstrates that the EU cannot block member states from reversing reform or abusing the opportunities EU membership offers to them. We contend that globalization (global value chain integration) has more effectively contributed to Hungary's knowledge-based upgrading than Europeanization (in the sense of policy transfer; access to EU Structural & Cohesion Funds, and integration in the European Research Area). This argument is substantiated with a case study on innovation strategy design and implementation, which illustrates the ambiguous impact of Europeanization, which is contrasted with our investigation of integration in global value chains, conducted through interviews of foreign-owned manufacturing companies about their R&D-based upgrading experience.
Time and temperature dependent sorption behaviour of dimethoate pesticide in various Indian soils
Authors: Rani Sunita , Sud Sant Dhiraj
Published: November 2014

Experiments were conducted to study the sorption behaviour of dimethoate in three Indian soils at different temperatures. A kinetic study showed that adsorption equilibrium was reached within 15 h at different initial levels of pesticide concentration. Applicability of the pseudo second order kinetic model suggested that the adsorption process was complex and several mechanisms were involved. The Freundlich model explained the adsorption behaviour adequately and the isotherms were of S-type. The adsorption process was found to be strongly affected by temperature. The Gibbs free energy change, ΔGº values (from -15.81 to -16.60 kJ mol-1) indicated that the process was spontaneous and exothermic in nature. The change in enthalpy of adsorption, ΔH° values (from -17.729 to -21.539 kJ mol-1) suggested that relatively weak H-bond forces were the main driving forces for adsorption. Desorption was found to be concentration- and temperature-dependent with higher desorption occurring at higher temperature and concentration levels. The results signify the importance of temperature in controlling the mobility of dimethoate in water bodies.
Compression loading behaviour of sunflower seeds and kernels
Authors: Selvam Thasaiya A. , Manikantan Musuvadi R. , Chand Tarsem , Sharma Rajiv , Seerangurayar Thirupathi
Published: November 2014

The present study was carried out to investigate the compression loading behaviour of five Indian sunflower varieties (NIRMAL-196, NIRMAL-303, CO-2, KBSH-41, and PSH- 996) under four different moisture levels (6-18% d.b). The initial cracking force, mean rupture force, and rupture energy were measured as a function of moisture content. The observed results showed that the initial cracking force decreased linearly with an increase in moisture content for all varieties. The mean rupture force also decreased linearly with an increase in moisture content. However, the rupture energy was found to be increasing linearly for seed and kernel with moisture content. NIRMAL-196 and PSH-996 had maximum and minimum values of all the attributes studied for both seed and kernel, respectively. The values of all the studied attributes were higher for seed than kernel of all the varieties at all moisture levels. There was a significant effect of moisture and variety on compression loading behaviour.
LAPTM4B Gene Expression And Polymorphism As Diagnostic Markers Of Breast Cancer In Egyptian Patients
Authors: Shaker Olfat , Taha Fatma , Salah Maha , El-Marzouky Mohamed
Published: November 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between LAPTM4B gene polymorphism and the risk of breast cancer among Egyptian female patients. Also, measurement was done of its serum level to evaluate its significance as a diagnostic marker for breast cancer.

Methods: This case control study was done on 88 breast cancer patients, 40 with fibroadenoma and 80 healthy subjects. Genotyping of the LAPTM4B polymorphism was determined by PCR. Serum LAPTM4B level was measured using ELISA.

Results: There was a significant difference in the (*1/2+ *2/2) genotypes in breast cancer patients (59.1) compared to the control subjects (43.8%) (P=0.047; OR=1.86; 95% CI=1.01–3.43). The frequency of the allele 2* of the LAPTM4B gene was significantly higher in breast cancer patients (36.4%) than in the control (25.6%) (p=0.034; OR=1.66; 95% CI=1.04–2.65). Genotypes (*1/2+*2/2) were significantly associated with the differential classification of TNM. Serum level of LAPTM4B was significantly higher in breast cancer patients than in control and fibroadenoma and in fibroadenoma patients than in control. In breast cancer patients, serum LAPTM4B was significantly higher in stage III and in large tumor size. Serum LAPTM4B was significantly higher in the cancer patients’ genotypes (*1/2+*2/2).

Conclusions: Genetic polymorphism of LAPTM4B is a potential risk factor for the development of breast cancer. Serum LAPTM4B may be used as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for breast cancer.
Assessing the Quality of a Local Authority Conference and Hospitality Venue Using the ServQual Model
Authors: Donnelly Mike , White Edward P
Published: November 2014

The close attention paid to service quality by successful private companies has become part of the environment within which most public service organizations now operate. The ServQual model has been used with success to help companies quantify customers' expectations and perceptions of their service and to use this analysis as the basis for improvement. More recently, the ServQual approach has been applied in public service contexts with mixed reliability and validity. This paper reports on the application of the ServQual model to a conference and hospitality venue operated by a Scottish local authority. The study investigates five distinct customer segments: conferences, meetings, receptions, performances, and weddings. The expectations-perceptions gaps are assessed for each of these segments using the ServQual model and the size and antecedents of ServQual Gap 1 is also examined.
Innovative Integrated Management System (IIMS) for Sustainable Food Industry
Authors: Suttiprasit Prasert
Published: November 2014

It is evident that the long-term survival and growth of global food industry depend on the availability and efficient use of raw materials, energy and water and other facilities under the concept of sustainable practice, i.e. in environment, society and economics. Quality and safety managements are essential to ensure that the industry can continue to support the communities in which it operates. Awarding a number of certifications to show the high standing of international quality and hygiene characteristics are currently necessary, e.g. ISO 9001: 2000, GMP/GHP, HACCP, ISO 22000, BRC and etc. To minimize the cost and maximize the efficiency, the Innovative Integration Management System (IIMS) has been implemented effectively under the frameworks of sustainability in a numbers of national and international food production companies in Thailand during the past years. This will allow the organization to integrate all common processes such as management review, document control, record control, training, monitoring & measuring, data analysing, internal audits, and corrective and preventive actions whereas the critical or specific processes required by each standard are still retained harmoniously with the others.
Quality Education Management in self-funded Post Secondary Education Institutions in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong Edwin K. P.
Published: November 2014

This article discusses the management of external validation exercises (academic audit). Such exercises are now seen as providing an important means for assessing the quality of education in self-funded Post Secondary Education Institutions in Hong Kong, and therefore careful preparation for them is essential. Relevant individual's implicit/tacit knowledge has been converted to explicit knowledge for organizational formal transfer. Ten implementation strategies for the achievement of key performance results are proposed, and a check list of twenty tasks is formulated, against which institutions might assess their level of achievement and evaluate their readiness for external validation.
Sustainable Quality Management - You Know It, But Do You Have It?
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamad Ishak Bin Mohamad , Yaacob Mashkuri Bin
Published: November 2014

The key issue in higher education quality is the significance of strategic quality initiatives in fulfilling the desire of our stakeholders who may have different perspective views on higher education. The most important issue is to have a direct understanding of quality initiatives, the attributes of quality being used for day to day operations, and the sort of performance driven indicators that are being developed to measure quality. Therefore it is imperative to identify the best practice as a holistic approach that supersedes individual's needs and desires. Touching on soft skills based on core values to sustain strategic quality initiatives plays a vital role. Quality management (QM) initiatives in service companies have been an ongoing effort whereby some have achieved considerable success while others have been less successful. This paper highlights the experience by UNITEN in its drive towards the vision of being a leading quality university.
Innovative Performance Measurement: an Integrative Perspective of Stakeholder's View
Authors: López-Fresno Palmira , Fernández-González Fernando
Published: November 2014

Business Process Management (BPM) has been increasingly focused as an holistic approach to manage organizations for better organizational effectiveness. BPM involves the use of innovative performance measurement systems to follow up, coordinate, control and improve processes and overall business efficacy and efficiency. In this paper we propose a global holistic perspective of integrated information, combining the view of all stakeholders and both qualitative and quantitative information, as a basic prerequisite for quality of information for better decision making. The paper includes findings from an empirical case study of measuring Parkinson's Disease Neurosurgery process, including stakeholder's view with an integrative perspective.
Innovative Outcome Assessment in Graduate Business Education and Continuous Improvement
Authors: Chattopadhyay Satya P. , Moylan Mary Elizabeth
Published: November 2014

The changed environment of global economy with painful austerity and restructuring measures causing severe economic dislocations in many diverse parts of the world have brought into focus the usefulness and value of management education in general and graduate management education in particular. The various accrediting bodies in America, Europe and Asia in recent years have shifted their emphasis to ensuring that learning outcomes of students in the program are tied to the goals and missions of the academic institution and meet the needs of the external partners of the academic enterprise that the students go on to serve. This has resulted in rapid advances in the field of innovative outcome assessment, and measurement of competency in performing higher order tasks as well as demonstration of traits related to successful transition into the business world and contribution to the success of the enterprise where the students are employed. The mere assessment/measurement of traits is not the end, but rather the first step in the cycle of continuous improvement in the tradition of the Plan-Do-Study-Act tradition of TQM. The goal is to identify shortcomings or opportunities for improvement via the assessment process and then to “close the loop” by introducing planned changes to improve system performance.
Gastrointestinal Tolerance to Daily Canned Chickpea Intake
Authors: Dahl Wendy J. , Hanifi Abdulah , Zello Gordon A. , Tyler Robert T.
Published: November 2014

Purpose: Consumption of pulses is recommended to improve diet quality and decrease the risk of chronic disease. However, their constituent α-galactosides, including raffinose, are commonly thought to contribute to unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms.

Methods: Using a random crossover design, healthy adults (n = 12) received control foods, control foods with 5 g raffinose, and foods with 200 g of canned chickpea (11 g fibre per day), each for three weeks following a 3-day diet rotation. Gastrointestinal symptoms (rating 0 = none to 3 = severe), compliance, and stool frequency were recorded daily.

Results: No change in daily stool frequency (mean ± SD) was found with chickpea (1.7 ± 0.3) or raffinose (1.7 ± 0.4) compared with control (1.5 ± 0.3). Reported flatulence (mean ± SD) was rated higher with chickpea (1.0 ± 0.2, P < 0.001) and raffinose (0.7 ± 0.2, P < 0.001) compared with control (0.4 ± 0.1). Although bloating was infrequent, ratings were higher with chickpea (0.2 ± 0.1, P < 0.001) and raffinose (0.3 ± 0.1, P < 0.001) compared with control (0.0). No differences were found for diarrhea or abdominal pain.

Conclusions: As gastrointestinal symptoms were mild for most participants, canned chickpea may be a feasible way of increasing pulse intake and improving overall diet quality.
Losing Literature: The Reduction of the GDR to History
Authors: Steding Elizabeth Priester
Published: November 2014

Federal and state curricula not only determine much of what is taught in school, they also reveal what is important to political and cultural leaders and ultimately help shape a country's narrative. This article examines how the GDR currently is addressed in history and literature curricula for the Oberstufe. While state history curricula consistently require coverage of the GDR, literature curricula vary widely, with a few states clearly including GDR literature and many states completely omitting it. If GDR literature is ignored in state curricula, it risks being ignored in the classroom, limiting student understanding of the GDR to historical facts and depriving them of an opportunity to better understand both past and current German society.
Synthesis and Rheological Characterization of Water-Soluble Glycidyltrimethylammonium-Chitosan
Authors: Rwei Syang-Peng , Chen Yu-Ming , Lin Wen-Yan , Chiang Whe-Yi
Published: November 2014

In this study, chitosan (CS) grafted by glycidyltrimethylammonium chloride (GTMAC) to form GTMAC-CS was synthesized, chemically identified, and rheologically characterized. The Maxwell Model can be applied to closely simulate the dynamic rheological performance of the chitosan and the GTMAC-CS solutions, revealing a single relaxation time pertains to both systems. The crossover point of G′ and Gʺ shifted toward lower frequencies as the CS concentration increased but remained almost constant frequencies as the GTMAC-CS concentration increased, indicating the solubility of GTMAC-CS in water is good enough to diminish influence from the interaction among polymer chains so as to ensure the relaxation time is independent of the concentration. A frequency–concentration superposition master curve of the CS and GTMAC-CS solutions was subsequently proposed and well fitted with the experimental results. Finally, the sol-gel transition of CS is 8.5 weight % (wt %), while that of GTMAC-CS is 20 wt %, reconfirming the excellent water solubility of the latter.
Five New Secondary Metabolites Produced by a Marine-Associated Fungus, Daldinia eschscholzii
Authors: Hu Zheng-Xi , Xue Yong-Bo , Bi Xiao-Bin , Zhang Jin-Wen , Luo Zeng-Wei , Li Xiao-Nian , Yao Guang-Min , Wang Jian-Ping , Zhang Yong-Hui
Published: November 2014

Five new compounds, including a benzopyran ribonic glycoside, daldiniside A (1), two isocoumarin ribonic glycosides, daldinisides B (2) and C (3), and two alkaloids, 1-(3-indolyl)-2R,3-dihydroxypropan-1-one (4) and 3-ethyl-2, 5-pyrazinedipropanoic acid (5), along with five known compounds (6–10), were isolated from the EtOAc extract of the marine-associated fungus, Daldinia eschscholzii. Their structures were elucidated by extensive physicochemical and spectroscopic properties, besides comparison with literature data. The absolute configurations of compounds 1–3 were corroborated by chemical transformation, GC analysis and X-ray crystallographic analysis. Meanwhile, the absolute configuration of compound 4 and the planar structure of compound 6 were also determined based on the X-ray diffraction analysis. The cytotoxicity of compounds 1–10, antifungal and anti-HIV activities of compounds 1–5 and the in vitro assay for glucose consumption of compounds 1–3 were done in the anti-diabetic model, whereas none showed obvious activity.
Dendrochronology et archéologie : problèmes méthodologiques et théoriques (Exposé de synthèse)
Authors: Lambert G.
Published: November 2014

L'application de la dendrochronologie à l'archéologie pose les mêmes problèmes que ceux qui se sont posés successivement à divers autres domaines de la recherche : géologie, botanique (palynologie), physique, chimie, etc.. A savoir que l'archéologue saisit la réalité par le détail, et non pas par ses aspects généraux. Il s'ensuit une complication considérable de la démarche qui doit permettre de passer de l'observation d'une mosaïque de faits particuliers à des lois plus générales. L'accumulation de micro-observations .VRAISEMBLABLEMENT utilisables d'une manière ou d'une autre se produit aussi dans le domaine des bois lacustres. Il faut notamment s'accomoder d'accidents climaciques courts de toutes espèces #qui sont des paramètres de perturbation au regard des procédures généralement utilisées et nous sommes contraints de développer petit à petit des processus de décision qu'on devrait bien plus appeler dendro-typologie que dendro-chronologie.
Radiocarbon dating by mass spectrometry : progress at Oxford
Authors: Hall E. T. , Hedges Robert E. M. , Wand J. O. , White N. R.
Published: November 2014

II est rendu compte de la méthode et des progrès réalisés depuis l'année dernière grâce à la construction de l'accélérateur consacré au radiocarbone à Oxford. La préparation des échantillons à petite échelle est aussi décrite, en insistant sur l'extraction des matériaux datables de l'os, en particulier le collagène et l 'hydroxyproline. Les graphiques préliminaires indiquant la quantité du collagène et de 1 'hy- droxyproline en fonction de l'âge et de l'environnement, sont aussi donnés.
Précision des datations au ¹⁴C des pluviaux holocènes sahariens le point de vue de l'archéologue
Authors: Muzzolini Alfred
Published: November 2014

La détermination des oscillations climatiques holocènes au Sahara dépend du pouvoir de résolution de la méthode du C14. Aux "bruits" naturels (notamment l'âge initial du bois, les incertitudes sur les carbonates) s'ajoutent ceux inhérents à la mesure et surtout les incertitudes sur le principe de simultanéité (latitudinal effect, possibles distorsions à l'équateur géomagnétique) . Les confirmations par 1 'archéo- magnétisme, les dates historiques, les dendrochronologies sont seulement partielles. La cohérence globale est réelle mais imparfaite. Au total, une incertitude ni importante, ni négligeable, non englobée dans le chiffre du laboratoire. On propose de "lire" les dates sahariennes holocènes avec une incertitude de +_ 5 %. Elles permettent de situer grossièrement 2 Humides et un Aride, les prétendues oscillations mineures n'étant probablement que des artefacts. Une lecture plus "fine" paraît pour l'instant illusoire.
Application of pre-dose dating to dental enamel
Authors: Benko L. , Koszorus L.
Published: November 2014

The thermoluminescent characteristics of synthetic hydroxyl apatite have been examined ; this material being the fundamental inorganic constituant of the enamel of teeth. In vue of trying to obtain an archaeological dating of teeth by TL, a chemical processus of de-proteinisation of the enamel has been adjusted. The predose effects of the grains extracted from human teeth - of an archaeological date between 100 and 6 000 years - have been studied.
Étude de quelques figurines de terre cuite de Myrina
Authors: Drilhon F. , Gautier J. , Lahanier Christian
Published: November 2014

This first study of the production of Myrina undertaken at L.R.M.F. has been voluntarily limited to be a test to determine what was the best scientific approach for this specific type of object. Two outstanding workshops are studied through three techniques : radiography, microscopy, X-Ray fluorescence. The results which are obtained are concordant. The products of the different workshops present definite characteristics, mineralogical , chemical, technological. The main axis of our future investigations are as follows : 1°) To set up series of reference to analyse the development of the output of Myrina, its geological distribution and timing. 2°) To identify the origin of the fresh volcanic components shown up in one of the workshops.
The influence of post-burial conditions on trace element composition of ancient sherds
Authors: Franklin U. M. , Hancock R. G. V.
Published: November 2014

In provenance studies it is normally assumed that the concentrations of elements used for diagnostic discrimination are not affected by post-burial conditions. We analyzed 28 well preserved sherds, stored under wet conditions in a Roman garbage pit at Cologne. We also analyzed 79 sherds from assorted garbage pits and other sites about Cologne. These sherds included both well preserved and poorly preserved specimens of different types of wares. All of them were made available to us by Dr. R.C.A. Rottlander (Tubingen). As well, artificial leaching experiments were conducted. The results were augmented by optical and mineralogical analyses. The study showed that the variations in elemental concentrations among and within the subgroups did not correspond to changes in the preservation of the objects.
Analysis of egyptian bronzes
Authors: Riederer Josef
Published: November 2014

At the Rathgen-Research Laboratory at Berlin about 1000 bronze egyptian statuettes from the 7th century B.C. to the roman period have been analyzed by means of atomic absorption spectrometry. The elements which have been determined quantitatively are copper, tin, lead, zinc, iron, nickel, silver, antimony and arsenic. The amounts of the main elements (Cu, Sn, Pb), as well as of the trace elements vary considerably : Copper is found from 65 to 100 %, tin from 0 to 15 %, lead between 0 to 30 %. By that an origin from different workshops and periods is highly probable. By means of a cluster analysis it was found that certain images of egyptian gods (Hathor, Min) all are made from the same alloy. Other images of more essential gods (Osiris, Isis) are made from different alloys which form quite distinct groups in the cluster analysis. Differences of alloys used in upper, middle and lower Egypt exist if the localization because of stilistic features is correct. A temporal variation of the alloys is indicated by an increase of lead in later objects.
Discovery of ancient gold mining on Thasos (Greece)
Authors: Wagner G.A. , Pernicka E. , Gentner Wolfgang , Vavelidis M.
Published: November 2014

Near Kinyra, at the eastern coast of Thasos several ancient galleries were found during the 1979 field- season. The galleries extend up to 100 m into the ridge of Klisidi. They contain numerous traces of ancient mining activity. Mineralogical and chemical studies on limonitic ore samples reveal that gold is the only metal in these galleries which was worth mining in antiquity. The galleries very likely belong to the ancient gold mines which Herodotus described in this area and which, so far, had not been re-located.