bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and characterization of human UDP-glucuronosyltransferases responsible for the in-vitro glucuronidation of arctigenin
Authors: Xin Hong , Xia Yang-Liu , Hou Jie , Wang Ping , He Wei , Yang Ling , Ge Guang-Bo , Xu Wei
Published: September 2015

Objectives

This study aimed to characterize the glucuronidation pathway of arctigenin (AR) in human liver microsomes (HLM) and human intestine microsomes (HIM).

Methods

HLM and HIM incubation systems were employed to catalyse the formation of AR glucuronide. The glucuronidation activity of commercially recombinant UGT isoforms towards AR was screened. A combination of chemical inhibition assay and kinetic analysis was used to determine the UGT isoforms involved in the glucuronidation of AR in HLM and HIM.

Key findings

AR could be extensively metabolized to one mono-glucuronide in HLM and HIM. The mono-glucuronide was biosynthesized and characterized as 4′-O-glucuronide. UGT1A1, 1A3, 1A7, 1A8, 1A9, 1A10, 2B4, 2B7 and 2B17 participated in the formation of 4′-O-G, while UGT2B17 demonstrated the highest catalytic activity in this biotransformation. Both kinetic analysis and chemical inhibition assays demonstrated that UGT1A9, UGT2B7 and UGT2B17 played important roles in AR-4′-O-glucuronidation in HLM. Furthermore, HIM demonstrated moderate efficiency for AR-4′-O-glucuronidation, implying that AR may undergo a first-pass metabolism during the absorption process.

Conclusion

UGT1A9, UGT2B7 and UGT2B17 were the major isoforms responsible for the 4′-O-glucuronidation of AR in HLM, while UGT2B7 and UGT2B17 were the major contributors to this biotransformation in HIM.
Baicalin inhibits inflammation and attenuates myocardial ischaemic injury by aryl hydrocarbon receptor
Authors: Xue Yiqiang , Shui Xiaorong , Su Weiqing , He Yuan , Lu Xinlin , Zhang Yu , Yan Guosen , Huang Shian , Lei Wei , Chen Can
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Recent evidence indicates that suppressing inflammation by specific drug target and treatment measures contributes to attenuate ischaemic injury and the related heart diseases. This study aimed to investigate the potential effect of baicalin on myocardial ischaemic injury through inhibition of inflammation by inactivating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR).

Methods

The mouse model with myocardial ischaemic injury was prepared by the left anterior descending coronary artery-amputation and then treated using baicalin. After observing the expression of AhR by immunohistochemical staining, the AhR and inflammatory mediators in circulation and myocardial tissues, including high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6, were detected based on enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot methods.

Key findings

The results showed that (1) substantial expression of AhR was observed in myocardial tissues; (2) ischaemic injury caused myocardial necrosis and remodelling, and stimulated hsCRP, IL-1β and IL-6 by activation of AhR; and (3) baicalin alleviated the myocardial injury and inflammatory response by inhibiting the expression of AhR.

Conclusion

Our findings extend the list of AhR ligands beyond exogenous toxins and endogenous molecules to cardiac immunological factors, and moreover it could be considered potential drug targets due to its pathological modulatory properties, while baicalin demonstrated promise as a novel vehicle for ischaemic heart disease.
New diagnostic characters for the order Sporolithales (Corallinophycidae, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Bahia Ricardo G. , Maneveldt Gavin W. , Amado‐Filho Gilberto M. , Yoneshigue‐Valentin Yocie
Published: September 2015

The diagnosis of the order Sporolithales is currently restricted to tetrasporangial anatomy. Until recently, there were few reports about gametangial, and more specifically carposporangial material for the Sporolithales. This study provides the first detailed observations of the anatomy of the mature carposporophyte phase from three species of Sporolithales commonly found in rhodolith beds from Brazil: Sporolithon episporum, S. ptychoides, and Sporolithon sp. Using these observations, along with previously published descriptions and illustrations from other representative species in the order, a comparison was made with the other three orders (Corallinales, Hapalidiales, and Rhodogorgonales) of the Corallinophycidae. We amend the diagnosis of the order Sporolithales to include the anatomy of the mature carposporophyte as follows: carposporangial conceptacles that lack a central fusion cell, but instead with numerous, short, one to two‐celled, filaments that bear oblong terminal carposporangia that are distributed across the conceptacle chamber floor and walls.
Delimiting species in the Phacus longicauda complex (Euglenida) through morphological and molecular analyses
Authors: Łukomska‐Kowalczyk Maja , Karnkowska Anna , Milanowski Rafał , Łach Łukasz , Zakryś Bożena
Published: September 2015

Although Phacus longicauda is the type species of the genus Phacus and one of the most common species among autotrophic euglenids, its correct identification is nearly impossible. Over 30 morphologically similar taxa appear in the literature, but there are no good diagnostic features to distinguish them. Using environmental sampling and whole genome amplification, we delimited species within the Phacus longicauda complex. Morphological and molecular characters were analyzed for 36 strains isolated from environmental samples (mainly from Poland). DNA was obtained from a small number of cells (20–30) isolated with a micropipette from every sample (i.e., without setting up laboratory cultures), and phylogenetic analyses were based on variation in nSSU rDNA. Apart from Phacus longicauda, three other species (Phacus circumflexus, Phacus helikoides, and Phacus tortus) were distinguished. Phacus cordata comb. nov. Zakryś et M. Łukomska and Phacus rotunda comb. nov. Zakryś et M. Łukomska had their taxonomic ranks changed and two species new to science, Phacus cristatus sp. nov. Zakryś et M. Łukomska and Phacus crassus sp. nov. Zakryś et M. Łukomska, were described. For all verified species, diagnostic descriptions were amended and epitypes designated.
Using the Nutrition Compass model for building healthy meals
Authors: Samuels F. , Hare J. , De Man W.
Published: September 2015

Mars Food UK commissioned the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) to develop the Nutrition Compass, and have applied this to building healthy recipes and meals. The research conducted by BNF, comparing popular meals in the UK against a set of nutritional criteria based on UK nutrient and food‐based recommendations, culminated in this tool, which can be applied to evaluate the ‘healthiness’ of a recipe based on the criteria developed. Key outcomes showed that meals made from partly pre‐prepared ingredients compare well with meals cooked from scratch provided they are used in a meal occasion that includes a healthy balance of food groups such as starchy carbohydrates, vegetables and protein‐rich foods. The development of the Nutrition Compass has allowed recipes and recipe suggestions to be optimised using partly pre‐prepared ingredients. Small changes in a recipe can result in a significantly healthier meal (e.g. adding vegetables or baking rather than frying, which is comparable for taste, convenience and affordability). Mars Food UK is exploring how this tool can be used more widely across the business and how it can be used to enable consumers to eat healthier meals.
Inhomogeneities in the propagation of the slow wave in the stomach
Authors: Lammers W. J.
Published: September 2015

The propagation of the slow wave in the stomach and its role in inducing sweeping peristaltic contractions toward the pylorus, essential for a proper digestion and emptying, have been studied for many years. Irregularities in the timing or in the pattern of propagation of the slow wave have been known to induce various gastric malfunctions and, recently, several types of gastric dysrhythmias have been described which could lead to gastric contraction abnormalities. In this study, Du et al. have analyzed the disturbances caused by a simple transmural incision in a human stomach, performed to obtain a biopsy of the muscle, on the propagation pattern of the slow wave. In addition, they show that such an incision may by itself also induce new types of gastric dysrhythmias. These results are important in demonstrating that the function of the stomach can easily be disturbed by such procedures. This mini‐review describes several ways in which inhomogeneities in propagation may affect the conduction pattern of the slow wave, including the genesis of several dysrhythmias, and what is currently known about their impact on gastric contraction and digestion.
Integrating plant carbon dynamics with mutualism ecology
Authors: Pringle Elizabeth G.
Published: September 2015

Plants reward microbial and animal mutualists with carbohydrates to obtain nutrients, defense, pollination, and dispersal. Under a fixed carbon budget, plants must allocate carbon to their mutualists at the expense of allocation to growth, reproduction, or storage. Such carbon trade‐offs are indirectly expressed when a plant exhibits reduced growth or fecundity in the presence of its mutualist. Because carbon regulates the costs of all plant mutualisms, carbon dynamics are a common platform for integrating these costs in the face of ecological complexity and context dependence. The ecophysiology of whole‐plant carbon allocation could thus elucidate the ecology and evolution of plant mutualisms. If mutualisms are costly to plants, then they must be important but frequently underestimated sinks in the terrestrial carbon cycle.

Contents

Summary
71

I.
Introduction
71

II.
The carbon dynamics of plant mutualisms
72

III.
Tracking carbon allocation to mutualism
73

IV.
Mutualisms and the global carbon cycle
74

V.
Conclusions
74

Acknowledgements
74

References
74
Hydroalcoholic extract of Carum carvi L. in oral mucositis: a clinical trial in male golden hamsters
Authors: Mardani M , Afra SM , Tanideh N , Andisheh Tadbir A , Modarresi F , Koohi‐Hosseinabadi O , Iraji A , Sepehrimanesh M
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Several studies have attempted to prevent or improve oral mucositis (OM) but have not produced a qualified treatment yet. This study evaluates the effects of Carum carvi L. (caraway) hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) as one of the traditional medicinal plants in 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU)‐induced OM in golden hamsters.

Materials and methods

OM was induced in 54 male golden hamsters by 5‐FU and cheek pouch scratching. Starting from day 12, 500 and 1000 mg kg−1 per day topical CHE were administered. Pouch histopathology score, malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione contents, and activity of myeloperoxidase plus microbial cultures of cheek pouch, antimicrobial properties of CHE, and essential oil constituents were evaluated.

Results

Lower histopathology score (0, 1, and 2) and malondialdehyde level, higher reduced glutathione level and activities of myeloperoxidase were detected in 1000 and 500 mg kg−1 per day topical CHE and control groups, respectively (P < 0.001). The CHE was more potent against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Streptococcus intermedius. γ‐Terpinene (37.2%) was identified as the main constituent of essential oil.

Conclusion

The use of CHE in topical form may be associated with reduced intensity of OM. This may be due to appropriate antibacterial activity and terpinene contents.
Retracted: Oral Polypodium leucomotos increases the anti‐inflammatory and melanogenic responses of the skin to different modalities of sun exposures: a pilot study
Authors: Calzavara‐Pinton Pier Giacomo , Rossi Maria Teresa , Zanca Arianna , Arisi Mariachiara , Gonzalez Salvador , Venturini Marina
Published: September 2015

Background

The effects on the inflammatory and tanning responses of sunlight/UVR of several oral antioxidants are still unknown.

Objective

Assess intensity, time course of the inflammatory, and tanning responses to increasing dosages of solar‐simulated radiation (SSR) at baseline and after oral supplementation of an extract of Polypodium leucotomos (PLE).

Methods

Ten healthy subjects underwent phototesting with SSR with a visual and spectrophotometrical assessment of the responses with or without daily oral supplementation of two tablets containing 240 mg of PLE for a total of 15 days.

Results

Polypodium leucotomos supplementation induced a significant increase of the minimal erythema dose (MED), a faster recovery of the inflammation following the delivery of super‐erythemal doses, and no significant changes of the minimal melanogenic dose (MMD). Spectrophotometric assessment of the Δa* in test areas exposed to equally doses of SSR did not show differences.

Conclusions

Polypodium leucotomos supplementation increased the MED and induced a faster recovery of the inflammation and a stronger tanning response with no changes in the melanogenic threshold.
Statistics: a Data Science for the 21st Century
Authors: Diggle Peter J.
Published: September 2015

The rise of data science could be seen as a potental threat to the long-term status of the statistics discipline. I first argue that, although there is a threat, there is also a much greater opportunity to re-emphasize the universal relevance of statistical method to the interpretation of data, and I give a short historical outline of the increasingly important links between statistics and information technology. The core of the paper is a summary of several recent research projects, through which I hope to demonstrate that statistics makes an essential, but incomplete, contribution to the emerging field of ‘electronic health’ research. Finally, I offer personal thoughts on how statistics might best be organized in a research-led university, on what we should teach our students and on some issues broadly related to data science where the Royal Statistical Society can take a lead.
Profiles of perfectionism, parental climate, and burnout among competitive junior athletes
Authors: Gustafsson H. , Hill A. P. , Stenling A. , Wagnsson S.
Published: September 2015

Recent research suggests that groups of athletes which differ in terms of perfectionism and perceptions of achievement climate can be identified. Moreover, these groups also differ in terms of burnout symptoms. The purpose of the current study was to extend this research by examining whether discernible groups can be identified based on scores of perfectionism and perceptions of parent‐initiated climate and, then, whether these groups differ in terms of burnout. Two‐hundred and thirty‐seven Swedish junior athletes (124 males and 113 females aged 16–19) from a variety of sports completed measures of athlete burnout, multidimensional perfectionism, and parent‐initiated motivational climate. Latent profile analysis identified four groups: non‐perfectionistic athletes in a task‐involving climate, moderately perfectionistic athletes in a task‐involving climate, highly perfectionistic athletes in a task‐involving climate, and highly perfectionistic athletes in a mixed climate. The latter two groups reported higher levels of burnout in comparison to other groups. The findings suggest that junior athletes high in perfectionism may be at comparatively greater risk to burnout and that this may especially be the case when they perceive their parents to emphasize concerns about failure and winning without trying one's best.
ACE inhibition modifies exercise‐induced pro‐angiogenic and mitochondrial gene transcript expression
Authors: van Ginkel S. , Ruoss S. , Valdivieso P. , Degens H. , Waldron S. , de Haan A. , Flück M.
Published: September 2015

Skeletal muscle responds to endurance exercise with an improvement of biochemical pathways that support substrate supply and oxygen‐dependent metabolism. This is reflected by enhanced expression of associated factors after exercise and is specifically modulated by tissue perfusion and oxygenation. We hypothesized that transcript expression of pro‐angiogenic factors (VEGF, tenascin‐C, Angpt1, Angpt1R) and oxygen metabolism (COX4I1, COX4I2, HIF‐1α) in human muscle after an endurance stimulus depends on vasoconstriction, and would be modulated through angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibition by intake of lisinopril. Fourteen non‐specifically trained, male Caucasians subjects, carried out a single bout of standardized one‐legged bicycle exercise. Seven of the participants consumed lisinopril in the 3 days before exercise. Biopsies were collected pre‐ and 3 h post‐exercise from the m. vastus lateralis. COX4I1 (P = 0.03), COX4I2 (P = 0.04) mRNA and HIF‐1α (P = 0.05) mRNA and protein levels (P = 0.01) showed an exercise‐induced increase in the group not consuming the ACE inhibitor. Conversely, there was a specific exercise‐induced increase in VEGF transcript (P = 0.04) and protein levels (P = 0.03) and a trend for increased tenascin‐c transcript levels (P = 0.09) for subjects consuming lisinopril. The observations indicate that exercise‐induced expression of transcripts involved in angiogenesis and mitochondrial energy metabolism are to some extent regulated via a hypoxia‐related ACE‐dependent mechanism.
Sequence‐based typing identification of a novel HLA‐A*33:95 variant in a Chinese family
Authors: Wang X.‐J. , Han C. , Zhang Y. , Li Q.‐H. , Ru K.
Published: September 2015

One nucleotide replacement in codon 17 (CGC>CAC) of HLA‐A*33:03:01 results in a novel allele, HLA‐A*33:95.
Ultra‐fast alterations in mRNA levels uncover multiple players in light stress acclimation in plants
Authors: Suzuki Nobuhiro , Devireddy Amith R. , Inupakutika Madhuri A. , Baxter Aaron , Miller Gad , Song Luhua , Shulaev Elena , Azad Rajeev K. , Shulaev Vladimir , Mittler Ron
Published: September 2015

The acclimation of plants to changes in light intensity requires rapid responses at several different levels. These include biochemical and biophysical responses as well as alterations in the steady‐state level of different transcripts and proteins. Recent studies utilizing promoter::reporter constructs suggested that transcriptional responses to changes in light intensity could occur within seconds, rates for which changes in mRNA expression are not routinely measured or functionally studied. To identify and characterize rapid changes in the steady‐state level of different transcripts in response to light stress we performed RNA sequencing analysis of Arabidopsis thaliana plants subjected to light stress. Here we report that mRNA accumulation of 731 transcripts occurs as early as 20–60 sec following light stress application, and that at least five of these early response transcripts play an important biological role in the acclimation of plants to light stress. More than 20% of transcripts accumulating in plants within 20–60 sec of initiation of light stress are H2O2‐ and ABA‐response transcripts, and the accumulation of several of these transcripts is inhibited by transcriptional inhibitors. In accordance with the association of rapid response transcripts with H2O2 and ABA signaling, a mutant impaired in ABA sensing (abi‐1) was found to be more tolerant to light stress, and the response of several of the rapid response transcripts was altered in mutants impaired in reactive oxygen metabolism. Our findings reveal that transcriptome reprogramming in plants could occur within seconds of initiation of abiotic stress and that this response could invoke known as well as unknown proteins and pathways.
Recurrent sequence exchange between homeologous grass chromosomes
Authors: Wicker Thomas , Wing Rod A. , Schubert Ingo
Published: September 2015

All grass species evolved from an ancestor that underwent a whole‐genome duplication (WGD) approximately 70 million years ago. Interestingly, the short arms of rice chromosomes 11 and 12 (and independently their homologs in sorghum) were found to be much more similar to each other than other homeologous regions within the duplicated genome. Based on detailed analysis of rice chromosomes 11 and 12 and their homologs in seven grass species, we propose a mechanism that explains the apparently ‘younger’ age of the duplication in this region of the genome, assuming a small number of reciprocal translocations at the chromosome termini. In each case the translocations were followed by unbalanced transmission and subsequent lineage sorting of the involved chromosomes to offspring. Molecular dating of these translocation events also allowed us to date major chromosome ‘fusions’ in the evolutionary lineages that led to Brachypodium and Triticeae. Furthermore, we provide evidence that rice is exceptional regarding the evolution of chromosomes 11 and 12, inasmuch as in other species the process of sequence exchange between homeologous chromosomes ceased much earlier than in rice. We presume that random events rather than selective forces are responsible for the observed high similarity between the short arm ends of rice chromosomes 11 and 12.
Rethinking art and geopolitics through aesthetics: artist responses to the Iraq war
Authors: Ingram Alan
Published: September 2015

A growing literature examines art in relation to the geopolitics of war, militarism and security. This paper argues that while this work has broadened the scope of critical research on geopolitics by attending to a hitherto under‐explored field of practice, it has been inhibited by a lack of attention to questions of aesthetics. To address this, the paper begins to conceptualise art and geopolitics in relation to this field. Emphasising the ambiguous and paradoxical nature of the aesthetic and attending to the implications of divergent understandings of aesthetic politics, the argument is developed empirically through a consideration of British artists' responses to the 2003 invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq. It is argued that the ambivalence of these responses further underscores the aporetic nature of art in relation to geopolitics and the need for this to be addressed both methodologically and in terms of broader conceptual and theoretical debates about the politics of the aesthetic itself.
Changes in adherence to cardiopulmonary resuscitation guidelines in a single referral center from January 2009 to June 2013 and assessment of factors contributing to the observed changes
Authors: Holmes Andrea C. , Clark Louise
Published: September 2015

Background

This retrospective study reviewed compliance to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) teaching at a small animal referral center from January 2009 to June 2013. CPR training commenced in October 2009. This was a lecture format by European specialists in veterinary anesthesia and analgesia. Teaching was originally based on published guidelines. Changes made to the content of the lectures after publication of the Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) guidelines in 2012 are discussed.

Key Findings

Data regarding basic life support and monitoring equipment were collected from all cases requiring CPR. A Mann–Kendall test for trend showed a significant increased use of both capnography (P = 0.017) and suction to aid tracheal intubation (P = 0.017) over the period of study. There was a significant increase in capnography use in 2011 (P = 0.046), 2012 (P = 0.002), and 2013 (P = 0.002) compared to 2009 (1/15).

Significance

The sequential increase in capnography use without any change to the number or availability of capnography units provides evidence that CPR teaching has altered clinical practice. The publication of the RECOVER guidelines provided an evidence base upon which to refine and improve teaching of CPR.
Manipulating crop row orientation and crop density to suppress Lolium rigidum
Authors: Borger C P D , Hashem A , Powles S B
Published: September 2015

Light is an important resource that crops and weeds compete for and so increased light interception by the crop can be used as a method of weed suppression in cereal crops. This research investigated the impact of altered availability of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) (from crop row orientation or seeding rate) on the growth and fecundity of Lolium rigidum. Wheat and barley crops were sown in an east–west (EW) or north–south (NS) direction, at a high or low seeding rate, in three field trials in 2010 and 2011 (at Merredin, Wongan Hills and Katanning, Western Australia). The average PAR available to L. rigidum in the inter‐row space of EW crops compared with NS crops was 78% to 91% at crop tillering, 39% to 56% at stem elongation, 28% to 53% at boot/anthesis and 41% to 59% at grain fill. Reduced PAR in the EW crop rows resulted in reduced L. rigidum fecundity in five of the six trials (average of 2968 and 5705 L. rigidum seeds m−2 in the EW and NS crops). Availability of PAR was not influenced by seeding rate, but the high seeding rate reduced fecundity in three of the six trials (average of 3354 and 5092 seeds m−2 in the crops with high and low seeding rate). Increased competitive ability of crops (through increased interception of PAR or increased crop density) was highly effective in reducing L. rigidum fecundity and is an environmentally friendly and low cost method of weed suppression.
Bargaining for Contract Academic Staff at English Canadian Universities
Authors: Hughes Jula , Bell David
Published: September 2015

Successful unionization of, and conclusion of collective agreements for, contract academic staff in English Canada challenges the received wisdom that the Wagner Act model is an insurmountable obstacle to the unionization of contingent labor. It provides an example that might prove instructive for other contingent workers. This article describes the process of unionization of contract academic staff in English Canada and seeks to explain its relative success. The exceptional situation of contract academic staff as nonunionized workers in an otherwise unionized environment, access to the expertise and resources of large, national unions or associations and a sophisticated national strategy were contributing factors to successful unionization. The article also considers the degree to which contract academic staff collective agreements fulfill the promise of unionization. We analyze sample collective agreements, noting the variety and strength of various contractual models. We conclude by suggesting that contract academic staff have benefitted considerably from unionization. Despite these successes, the experience of contract academic staff supports critiques of the Wagner Act model as applied to contingent labor.
Pathogen Loading From Canada Geese Faeces in Freshwater: Potential Risks to Human Health Through Recreational Water Exposure
Authors: Gorham T. J. , Lee J.
Published: September 2015

Canada geese (Branta canadensis) faeces have been shown to contain pathogenic protozoa and bacteria in numerous studies over the past 15 years. Further, increases in both the Canada geese populations and their ideal habitat requirements in the United States (US) translate to a greater presence of these human pathogens in public areas, such as recreational freshwater beaches. Combining these factors, the potential health risk posed by Canada geese faeces at freshwater beaches presents an emerging public health issue that warrants further study. Here, literature concerning human pathogens in Canada geese faeces is reviewed and the potential impacts these pathogens may have on human health are discussed. Pathogens of potential concern include Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella Typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, Helicobacter canadensis, Arcobacter spp., Enterohemorragic Escherichia coli pathogenic strains, Chlamydia psitacci, Cryptosporidium parvum and Giardia lamblia. Scenarios presenting potential exposure to pathogens eluted from faeces include bathers swimming in lakes, children playing with wet and dry sand impacted by geese droppings and other common recreational activities associated with public beaches. Recent recreational water‐associated disease outbreaks in the US support the plausibility for some of these pathogens, including Cryptosporidium spp. and C. jejuni, to cause human illness in this setting. In view of these findings and the uncertainties associated with the real health risk posed by Canada geese faecal pathogens to users of freshwater lakes, it is recommended that beach managers use microbial source tracking and conduct a quantitative microbial risk assessment to analyse the local impact of Canada geese on microbial water quality during their decision‐making process in beach and watershed management.
Reducción del riesgo sísmico para el patrimonio arquitectónico. Una comparación entre experiencias de Colombia y Japón
Authors: Niglio Olimpia , Valencia Mina William
Published: September 2015

El riesgo sísmico es una problemática en muchos países, sobre todo de América Latina, del Medio Oriente y del extremo Oriente, y en particular Japón. A partir del análisis de la sismicidad y el patrimonio construido en Japón y Colombia, este artículo presenta el primer resultado de una investigación comparativa entre los dos países, las diferentes
metodologías de intervención y de gestión para la protección el patrimonio arquitectónico, lo cual es importante para reducir su vulnerabilidad. Este documento también presenta algunas reflexiones sobre las normas jurídicas y técnicas tanto en Japón como en Colombia para la salvaguardia del patrimonio cultural construido en zonas con un
nivel de amenaza sísmica importante y sus estrategias de prevención.
Análisis de ciclo de vida en el sector agrícola:el caso del municipio de Viotá, Cundinamarca(Colombia)
Authors: Arango Ramírez Alejandro , Carmona Luis Gabriel , Romero Saida Alejandra
Published: September 2015

El objetivo de este artículo es hacer algunas recomendaciones sobre las vías que espreciso explorar en el fortalecimiento de estudios sobre análisis de ciclo de vida (acv)en agricultura. Metodológicamente, se consideró la identificación en la literatura delas principales barreras específicas al acv agrícola y su contraste con la experienciade los autores en el desarrollo de un estudio de la “finca al mercado”, sobre cadenasagrícolas del municipio de Viotá. Se identificaron dos particularidades sobre elacv agrícola: i) dificultades sobre ausencia de datos y ii) limitaciones derivadasde la variedad de contextos en cuanto a escala, técnica y límites del sistema deproducción. Las recomendaciones fueron pensadas desde el marco institucionalcolombiano y para contextos de producción informal y débil aplicación de criteriostécnico-administrativos.
Dinámicas sociodemográficas, economía y potencialidades de desarrollo sostenible de la Comarca de Guadix (España)
Authors: Duran Francisco Entrena , Alvarez Lorente Tamara
Published: September 2015

El presente artículo muestra los resultados más importantes de una investigación sobrelas dinámicas sociodemográficas y económicas en la Comarca española de Guadix.Los autores hacen hincapié en la necesidad de incidir en políticas de desarrollo ruralmás adecuadas y efectivas para esta zona rural en declive. Ello porque si bien desdehace tiempo se están ideando y ejecutando acciones encaminadas a conseguirdicho desarrollo, las pérdidas demográficas siguen siendo significativas; sobre todo,de los efectivos poblacionales más jóvenes. Sin embargo, debido a su localizacióngeográfica y a la calidad de sus cuantiosos recursos socioculturales y naturales,estamos ante un territorio sostenible social y ambientalmente, en el que ademástales recursos constituyen factores potenciales de desarrollo socioeconómico.
Beyond Budgeting en las empresas de construcción civil
Authors: Isidro Pereira Francisco
Published: September 2015

En los negocios de la construcción civil esusual enfrentarse con la lógica del presupuesto que se relacionaexclusivamente a la ejecución de la obra, pero ignorael instrumental presupuestario en el contexto de las operacionesempresariales. Al apropiarse de ese escenario, elestudio contrasta el modelo beyond budgeting en un campoempírico empresarial para responder hasta qué punto elbeyond budgeting reduciría el diletantismo de la planeacióny el control presupuestario de las actividades propias de lasempresas constructoras. El marco temporal correspondióa veinte meses entre 2012 y 2014. Como opción metodológicase adoptó el estudio de caso. La elección de la unidadempresarial se dio en función de la facilidad de accesoa los datos. De conformidad con el diseño del estudio, seutilizaron la entrevista semiestructurada y la observaciónparticipante. El registro de los datos se concretó por mediode un bloque de apuntes que, tras una revisión crítica, seinsertaron en un modelo computacional y se confrontaroncon el contenido teórico y con las bases de reflexión obtenidasa partir de la simulación. Dada la realidad del objetode campo, el estudio arroja dudas sobre el uso de todos losprincipios que subyacen en la implementación del modelode beyond budgeting.
Medición de activos no financieros. Un análisis de los elementos que intervienen en la decisión de la gerencia al optar por el modelo del valor razonable
Authors: Castellanos Sánchez Heiberg Andrés
Published: September 2015

Las Normas Internacionales de Información Financiera (2014) prevén un tratamiento alternativo para la medición posterior de activos no financieros. A tal efecto, al momento de definir sus políticas contables, la gerencia de la entidad debe seleccionar entre el modelo del costo histórico y el modelo del valor razonable. Este trabajo investigativo se centra en examinar los elementos que intervienen en la decisión de la gerencia al optar por la aplicación del valor razonable en la medición de activos no financieros. El estudio se enmarca en un enfoque cualitativo, circunscrito a la modalidad documental. En esta revisión, destaca la identificación de elementos relacionados con relevancia de la información financiera, restricción del costo, medidas de rentabilidad, medidas de endeudamiento, medidas de costo de oportunidad y perfil de la gestión empresarial.
Adiós a Gabriel García Márquez
Authors: Perilli Carmen
Published: September 2015

Extracto del ensayo: "Mi historia personal, como la de muchos otros de mi generación, está unida a la lectura de Cien años de soledad. La escena de lectura de la primera edi- ción del barquito, en una siesta interminable en un pueblo de provincia, donde siempre es lunes, me volcó, de modo definitivo, hacia la literatura. A lo largo de estos años las innumerables incursiones en sus páginas dieron lugar a mi trabajo de tesis. Hoy continúan alimentando mi escritura y mis seminarios donde vuelvo una y otra vez sobre el mundo del colombiano. La muerte de Gabriel García Márquez me desafió a recorrer nuevamente el viejo  libro. Y volví a ser atrapada en ese mundo sorprendente que, a cada instante, asalta con invenciones de la imaginación y que tiene la virtud de decir la realidad de una manera luminosa. Cada lectura, una aventura incomparable, en un  espacio desconocido y miste- rioso de papel".
Lenguas viajeras: hacia una imaginación geolingüística
Authors: Pratt Mary Louise
Published: September 2015

En la extensa literatura de hoy sobre globalización, el lenguaje no ha sido una categoría de análisis. Por lo general su fuerza ha sido sencillamente omitida en las teorizaciones de globalidad, movilidad, mercados y geopolítica. Sin embargo, los procesos globales están a cada paso determinados por el lenguaje. El siguiente ensayo tiene como objetivo estudiar las dimensiones lingüísticas de este manojo de realineaciones planetarias sociales, ecológicas, económicas, políticas e imaginarias al que denominamos globalización.
Desarrollo territorial rural y cooperativas: un análisis desde las políticas públicas
Authors: Buendía-Martínez Inmaculada , Côté Alain
Published: September 2015

Las zonas rurales enfrentan un conjunto de desafíos globales como resultado de las actuales transformacioneseconómicas y sociales. La contribución de las cooperativas, en tanto que empresas de estructura colectiva conuna fuerte adscripción territorial, ha originado que sean consideradas en algunos países como un pilar de laspolíticas rurales. Este trabajo analiza una exitosa iniciativa pública de casi treinta años: las cooperativas dedesarrollo regional. Su función como promotoras del movimiento cooperativo de Quebec es fundamentalpara la diversidad empresarial y el empleo de las regiones rurales.
Obtención de biodiesel a partir de aceite usado de cocina por trans-esterificación
Authors: Bocanegra Jenny Paola , Malagón Dionisio Humberto , López Luisa Fernanda
Published: September 2015

La evaluación de diferentes aceites vegetales para la obtención de biocombustibles se ha convertido en una estrategia global en la producción de biodiesel, con miras a la reducción de costos de producción, aumentar el rendimiento de la reacción, evitar el uso de materias primas consideradas como alimentos y disminuir la contaminación ambiental. En el presente trabajo se evaluó la obtención de biodiesel a partir de aceite usado de cocina, por medio de catálisis con hidróxido de sodio y potasio. Se evaluaron tres relaciones molares de metanol:aceite, 6:1, 9:1 y 12:1, dos catalizadores KOH y NaOH y dos porcentajes de catalizador 1% y 2%; se realizó un diseño factorial por duplicado. La temperatura se mantuvo en 60°C y el tiempo de reacción en 2 horas. Se determinó el contenido de metil ésteres, mono, di y triglicéridos mediante cromatografía de gases. Las mejores condiciones para NaOH y KOH como catalizadores se obtuvieron cuando el porcentaje de catalizador fue 1% y la relación molar alcohol:aceite fue 12:1. En estas condiciones se obtuvo una conversión del 64,1 %, un rendimiento de 98 % y un porcentaje de metil ésteres de 99,1% cuando el catalizador fue NaOH; con KOH la conversión fue 63,2%, el rendimiento fue 88% y el porcentaje de metil-ésteres fue 98,4%. Los resultados de este estudio muestran un alto rendimiento de la reacción usando aceite usado, por lo cual su implementación a nivel industrial dependerá de la evaluación económica.

 
Reutilización de un residuo de la industria petrolera (FCC) en la producción de elementos constructivos
Authors: Caicedo Casso Eduard Andrés , Mejía de Gutiérrez Ruby , Gordillo Suárez Marisol , Torres Agredo Janneth
Published: September 2015

Este trabajo analiza la viabilidad de utilizar un residuo de catalizador gastado (FCC) del proceso de craqueo catalítico, procedente de una empresa petrolera colombiana, en la producción de elementos constructivos, tipo bloques y adoquines. Para definir la mezcla optima de cemento/FCC, se preparan morteros de cemento portland con proporciones de FCC entre 0 y 70% como reemplazo del cemento y se evalúa su resistencia a compresión a edades hasta de 28 días de curado. Mediante un procesamiento estadístico, aplicando la metodología de respuesta, se optimizan las proporciones de cada componente en la mezcla, para posteriormente su implementación en la producción de bloques y adoquines vibro-compactados. Complementariamente se realiza el estudio del proceso de hidratación, por técnicas de difracción de rayos X (DRX) y análisis térmico diferencial (TG/DTG). Los resultados indican que es posible incorporar FCC al concreto sustituyendo el cemento hasta en un 45% y obtener un elemento con características mecánicas comparables a los disponibles comercialmente. En la norma colombiana actual, los bloques desarrollados clasifican como bloques no-estructurales y los adoquines como adoquines de piso. Se plantea esta como una alternativa de utilización del subproducto y un aporte a la sostenibilidad ambiental.
Sistema de identificación de intención de movimiento para el control mioeléctrico de una prótesis de mano robótica
Authors: Quinayas Burgos Cesar Augusto , Gaviria López Carlos Alberto
Published: September 2015

Este artículo presenta un sistema embebido que detecta en tiempo real la intención de movimiento para el control de un prototipo de prótesis de mano robótica. El trabajo muestra que usando características temporales de cálculo simple, es posible obtener un agrupamiento de vectores de características lo suficientemente discriminante como para que se puedan usar clasificadores de patrones muy simples. Así, en este trabajo se propone un clasificador basado en la mínima distancia al centroide de los grupos que caracterizan a los movimientos a identificar, modificando el conocido algoritmo k vecinos próximos para sacar mayor provecho de la fase de entrenamiento del clasificador en la fase de clasificación y obtener respuesta en tiempo real. Se presentan resultados de clasificación de intención de movimiento obtenidos con el sistema desarrollado usando el porcentaje de éxito como medida de efectividad, al realizar  pruebas sobre tres sujetos con músculos sanos. Los resultados experimentales muestran que el sistema puede ser utilizado efectivamente para el control de ejecución de cuatro primitivas motoras de un prototipo de prótesis de mano robótica.
Effect of Aging on the Properties of Asphalt and Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Higuera Sandoval Carlos Hernando , Camargo Amaya Xiomara Vanessa , Suárez Molano Edwin Alexander
Published: September 2015

This article presents the results of the analysis of the effect of aging on the properties of asphalt and asphalt mixtures. The objective of this study was to compare the properties of the original asphalt and aged asphalt and the dynamic modulus of asphalt mixtures. The long-term aging was simulated by using Pressure Asphalt Vessel (PAV). Marshall and RAMCODES methodologies were used to determine the formula of work; values of dynamic modulus of designed mixtures were obtained by the indirect tensile test, using the Nottingham Asphalt Tester (NAT). The results showed an increase in the rigidity of the aged asphalt. Also, an increase of the stability and a decreased flow in the mixtures made with this type of binder was found. The dynamic modulus values of the mixtures containing aged asphalt showed an increase up to three times compared with those elaborated with original asphalt mixtures.
Ontology, Epistemology, Strategy and Method in Educational Research. A Critical Realist Approach
Authors: Scott David
Published: September 2015

This article focuses on the development of a meta-theory for the use and application of qualitative strategies and methods. This meta-theory is sometimes referred to as critical realism, though it is important to acknowledge that there are in existence a number of rival theories that are described as critical realist. The suggestion being made here is that methods and strategies used by researchers to collect and analyse data in the world cannot be a-epistemic, but in every case are underpinned by ontological and epistemological frameworks. In particular, the issue of causality is central to any framework that is adopted. Since researchers cannot avoid these philosophical issues then it is obligatory for them to base their methods, strategies and modus operandi on a meta-theory which is both more rational and, in addition, fully comprehensive.
Polos epistemológicos: uso y construcción de teoría en investigación cualitativa en educación
Authors: Guzmán-Valenzuela Carolina
Published: September 2015

En este artículo se proponen e ilustran los conceptos de polo epistemológico I (cercano a los marcos teóricos del investigador)y polo epistemológico II (cercano a la perspectiva de los participantes de una realidad educativa). Se plantea queel tránsito constante y permanente entre ambos polos y la puesta en marcha del mecanismo de vigilancia epistemológica permiten la construcción de conocimiento teórico en investigación cualitativa. Al finalizar, se presta especial atención al uso de la teoría durante las diversas etapas del proceso investigativo y las formas en que las teorizaciones iniciales pueden ser descartadas o ampliadas.
Análisis comparado de las políticas públicas de defensa de México y Brasil. Retos de una nueva contrainsurgencia*
Authors: Montero Moncada Luís Alexander , Herrera Ángela , Abril Pérez Liliana
Published: September 2015

La evolución de la doctrina de contrainsurgencia ha tenido en el escenario latinoamericano un espacio interesante para matizar las diferentes escuelas teóricas y para experimentar adecuacionesespeciales según las necesidades imperantes en la región. En ese sentido, las políticas públicas de seguridad y defensa de México y Brasil ofrecen patrones claros de retos y amenazas que desarrollannuevas formas de atacar a los Estados, así como las respuestas que se han concebido desde novedosas concepciones de contrainsurgencia.
LA CIENCIA POLÍTICA EN COLOMBIA. Análisis de los planes de estudio, sus áreas y sus énfasis
Authors: Duque Daza Javier
Published: September 2015

El artículo analiza las características de los planesde estudio del campo de la ciencia política en Colombia. Se estudian cinco dimensiones de la enseñanza de la ciencia política en el país: 1) las intersecciones y convergencias en subcampos de la disciplina, 2) los énfasis, 3) los planes de estudio, 4) los contextos políticos y 5) la investigaciónformativa. El argumento central es que no obstante la diversidad en los nombres y contenidos de los planes de estudio, hay lugares de encuentro y convergencia en la formación, hay intersecciones que permiten hablar de un núcleo compartido por gran parte de los planes de estudio relacionado con la ciencia política y los que suelen ser considerados como los subcampos de la disciplina. Además de las intersecciones,encontramos que hay diversos grados de desarrollo y consolidación de los programas y diferencias y variedad en los énfasis formativos y en la valoración e importancia asignada a la formación investigativa.
La narrativa de las políticas públicas en la jurisprudencia de la Corte Constitucional colombiana
Authors: Cano Blandón Luisa Fernanda
Published: September 2015

Pese a que la referencia al Derecho en la teoría  de las políticas públicas es escasa, en Colombia ha crecido el interés jurídico en este tema en los últimos años. En la vía inversa, los analistas de políticas públicas han prestado mayor atenciónal Derecho –y a los derechos– más allá de asumirlo como el marco jurídico institucional de toda política. Una de las razones de esta reciente conexión es la reiterativa referencia al concepto de políticas públicas en la jurisprudenciaconstitucional colombiana. El objetivo  de este escrito es reconstruir la narrativa de la Corte Constitucional alrededor de la noción de políticas públicas desde la promulgación de la Constitución de 1991 hasta el año 2013. El referente para esta tarea es el análisis narrativo de políticas públicas sustentado principalmente por Emery Roe (1994).La reconstrucción de tal narrativa se lleva a cabo en dos momentos: en primer lugar, se exploran los distintos escenarios en los cuales la Corte se refiere a las políticas públicas. En segundo lugar, se aborda el aspecto formal de su narrativa, es decir, los distintos modos cómo la Corte entiende las políticas públicas y cuál es la forma o acto jurídico a la que deben ser llevadas.
ANÁLISIS DE LAS NUEVAS PRERROGATIVAS DEL AUTOR SOBRE LAS OBRAS DERIVADAS DE LA SUYA —A LA LUZ DEL ARTÍCULO 21 DEL TRLPI EN ESPAÑA
Authors: Contreras Jaramillo Juan Camilo
Published: September 2015

El artículo 21 del Real Decreto Legislativo 1/1996, de 12 de abril, del TextoRefundido de la Ley de Propiedad Intelectual, TRLPI, no solo consagrael derecho de transformación del autor sobre su propia obra, además, abrela posibilidad a la participación del mismo autor como titular de derechosde propiedad intelectual sobre las obras derivadas que sean producidaspor terceros con su autorización; esto es, conservando la potestad paraautorizar cualquier uso de la obra resultante. Esta reinterpretación delo que la doctrina ha entendido por el derecho de transformación es laconsecuencia no querida de la implementación de una Directiva Europeasobre bases de datos. Este artículo de reflexión sobre la disposiciónanteriormente citada pretende hacer evidente el ensanchamiento de lasfacultades de los titulares de derechos sobre las obras derivadas en lalegislación española.