bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palmitic Acid and Ergosta-7,22-dien-3-ol Contribute to the Apoptotic Effect and Cell Cycle Arrest of an Extract from Marthasterias glacialis L. in Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Pereira David , Correia-da-Silva Georgina , Valentão Patrícia , Teixeira Natércia , Andrade Paula
Published: December 2013

We describe the effect of a chemically characterized lipophilic extract obtained from Marthasterias glacialis L. against human breast cancer (MCF-7) and human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cell lines. Evaluation of DNA synthesis revealed that both cell lines were markedly affected in a concentration-dependent way, the SH-SY5Y cell line being more susceptible. Cell cycle arrest was observed, an effect induced by the sterol, ergosta-7,22-dien-3-ol, present in the extract. Morphological evaluation of treated cells showed the advent of lipid droplets and chromatin condensation compatible with apoptosis, which was confirmed by the evaluation of caspase-3 and -9 activities. Palmitic acid was the main compound responsible for this apoptotic effect by a ceramide-independent mechanism that involved endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress with upregulation of CCAAT/-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP).
Sad State of Phage Electron Microscopy. Please Shoot the Messenger
Authors: Ackermann Hans-W.
Published: December 2013

Two hundred and sixty publications from 2007 to 2012 were classified according to the quality of electron micrographs; namely as good (71); mediocre (21); or poor (168). Publications were from 37 countries; appeared in 77 journals; and included micrographs produced with about 60 models of electron microscopes. The quality of the micrographs was not linked to any country; journal; or electron microscope. Main problems were poor contrast; positive staining; low magnification; and small image size. Unsharp images were frequent. Many phage descriptions were silent on virus purification; magnification control; even the type of electron microscope and stain used. The deterioration in phage electron microscopy can be attributed to the absence of working instructions and electron microscopy courses; incompetent authors and reviewers; and lenient journals. All these factors are able to cause a gradual lowering of standards.
Involvement of CUL4A in Regulation of Multidrug Resistance to P-gp Substrate Drugs in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Wang Yunshan , Ma Guangxin , Wang Qin , Wen Mingxin , Xu Yangyang , He Xiuquan , Zhang Pengju , Wang Yuli , Yang Taomei , Zhan Panpan , Wei Guangwei
Published: December 2013

CUL4A encodes a core component of a cullin-based E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that regulates many critical processes such as cell cycle progression, DNA replication, DNA repair and chromatin remodeling by targeting a variety of proteins for ubiquitination and degradation. In the research described in this report we aimed to clarify whether CUL4A participates in multiple drug resistance (MDR) in breast cancer cells. We first transfected vectors carrying CUL4A and specific shCUL4A into breast cancer cells and corresponding Adr cells respectively. Using reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions and western blots, we found that overexpression of CUL4A in MCF7 and MDA-MB-468 cells up-regulated MDR1/P-gp expression on both the transcription and protein levels, which conferred multidrug resistance to P-gp substrate drugs, as determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. On the other hand, silencing CUL4A in MCF7/Adr and MDA-MB-468/Adr cells led to the opposite effect. Moreover, ERK1/2 in CUL4A-overexpressing cells was highly activated and after treatment with PD98059, an ERK1/2-specific inhibitor, CUL4A-induced expression of MDR1/P-gp was decreased significantly. Lastly, immunohistochemistry in breast cancer tissues showed that P-gp expression had a positive correlation with the expression of CUL4A and ERK1/2. Thus, these results implied that CUL4A and ERK1/2 participated in multi-drug resistance in breast cancer through regulation of MDR1/P-gp expression.
Organically Modified Silica with Pyrazole-3-carbaldehyde as a New Sorbent for Solid-Liquid Extraction of Heavy Metals
Authors: Radi Smaail , Tighadouini Said , Bacquet Maryse , Degoutin Stéphanie , Cazier Francine , Zaghrioui Mustapha , Mabkhot Yahia
Published: December 2013

A new chelating matrix, SiNP, has been prepared by immobilizing 1.5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carbaldehyde on silica gel modified with 3-aminopropyl-trimethoxysilane. This new chelating material was well characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, cross polarization magic angle spinning solid state 13C-NMR, nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm, BET surface area, BJH pore size, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The new product exhibits good chemical and thermal stability as determined by thermogravimetry curves (TGA). The new prepared material was used as an adsorbent for the solid-phase extraction (SPE) of Pb(II), Cd(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) from aqueous solutions using a batch method, prior to their determination by flame atomic adsorption spectrometry. The adsorption capacity was investigated using kinetics and pH effects. Common coexisting ions did not interfere with separation and determination.
Multiple Exciton Generation in Colloidal Nanocrystals
Authors: Smith Charles , Binks David
Published: December 2013

In a conventional solar cell, the energy of an absorbed photon in excess of the band gap is rapidly lost as heat, and this is one of the main reasons that the theoretical efficiency is limited to ~33%. However, an alternative process, multiple exciton generation (MEG), can occur in colloidal quantum dots. Here, some or all of the excess energy is instead used to promote one or more additional electrons to the conduction band, potentially increasing the photocurrent of a solar cell and thereby its output efficiency. This review will describe the development of this field over the decade since the first experimental demonstration of multiple exciton generation, including the controversies over experimental artefacts, comparison with similar effects in bulk materials, and the underlying mechanisms. We will also describe the current state-of-the-art and outline promising directions for further development.
Breastfeeding and Active Bonding Protects against Children’s Internalizing Behavior Problems
Authors: Liu Jianghong , Leung Patrick , Yang Amy
Published: December 2013

Breastfeeding is associated with numerous health benefits to offspring and mothers and may improve maternal-infant bonding. Ample evidence suggests breastfeeding can improve child neurodevelopment, but more research is needed to establish whether breastfeeding is linked to the development of child psychopathology. This paper aims to explore the effects of both breastfeeding and mother-child interactions on child behavioral outcomes at a later age. Children from the China Jintan Child Cohort Study (N = 1267), at age six years old were assessed, along with their parents. Children who were breastfed exclusively for a period of time in the presence of active bonding were compared to those who were breastfed in the absence of active bonding as well as to children who were not exclusively breastfed, with or without active bonding. Results from ANOVA and GLM, using SPSS20, indicate that children who were breastfed and whose mothers actively engaged with them displayed the lowest risk of internalizing problems (mean = 10.01, SD = 7.21), while those who were neither exclusively breastfed nor exposed to active bonding had the least protection against later internalizing problems (mean = 12.79, SD = 8.14). The effect of breastfeeding on internalizing pathology likely represents a biosocial and holistic effect of physiological, and nutritive, and maternal-infant bonding benefits.
Triggering of Suicidal Erythrocyte Death by Penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose
Authors: Alzoubi Kousi , Honisch Sabina , Abed Majed , Lang Florian
Published: December 2013

The polyphenolic 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-beta-d-glucose from several medicinal herbs triggers apoptosis and has, thus, been proposed for treatment of malignancy. The substance is at least partially effective through caspase activation. In analogy to apoptosis of nucleated cells, erythrocytes may enter suicidal death or eryptosis, which is characterized by cell shrinkage and by phosphatidylserine translocation to the erythrocyte surface. Eryptosis is triggered by increase of cytosolic Ca2+-activity ([Ca2+]i). The sensitivity to [Ca2+]i is enhanced by ceramide. The present study explored whether penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose stimulates eryptosis. Cell volume was estimated from forward scatter, phosphatidylserine exposure from annexin V binding, hemolysis from hemoglobin-release, [Ca2+]i from Fluo3-fluorescence and ceramide abundance from fluorescent antibodies. A 48-h exposure of human erythrocytes to penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose significantly decreased forward scatter (50 µM) and significantly increased annexin V binding (10 µM). Up to 50 µM penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose did not significantly modify [Ca2+]i. However, the effect of penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (25 µM) induced annexin V binding was slightly, but significantly, blunted by removal of extracellular Ca2+, pointing to sensitization of erythrocytes to the scrambling effect of Ca2+. Penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (25 µM) further increased ceramide formation. In conclusion, penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose stimulates suicidal erythrocyte death or eryptosis, an effect partially due to stimulation of ceramide formation with subsequent sensitization of erythrocytes to Ca2+.
DEPENDENCES OF SMA MIXTURE AND ITS BITUMINOUS BINDER PROPERTIES ON BITUMEN BATCHING SYSTEM, MIXING TIME AND TEMPERATURE ON ASPHALT MIXING PLANT
Authors: Bražiūnas Justas , Sivilevičius Henrikas , Virbickas Romualdas
Published: December 2013

Bitumen holds the aggregate in hot mix asphalt (HMA). Without asphalt binder, HMA would simply be crushed stone or gravel. A bitumen batching system (BBS) is comprised of bitumen storage, transportation, weighing and discharge equipment in an asphalt mixing plant (AMP). The function of the equipment is to batch the binder heated up to working temperature and to discharge it into a mixer in batches. In the entire system, the binder is exposed to high temperature and oxygen. Bitumen is slowly oxidized when it is in contact with oxygen. The degree of oxidation is highly dependent on temperature, time and thickness of a bitumen film. This article models the key factors influencing on the dynamics of bitumen oxidation in BBS equipment. Stone mastic asphalt (SMA) mixture was produced from the same materials according to the same job-mix formula (JMF) in neighbouring batch type AMP by changing the mixing time of materials from 20 to 60 s. Bitumen binder was separated from the taken SMA samples and its gradation was identified. Thus, Marshall specimens were produced and tested. Penetration Pen25 of bitumen binder recovered in rotary evaporator, softening point Tsp was determined and penetration index Ip was calculated. The presented findings of experimental investigation show that the properties of bitumen binder in BBS working at two different technologies changed inconsistently. Due to gravitation, the bitumen intensively flowing into a mixer (BBS1) is impacted by oxidation more than the bitumen batched by a high-pressure pump (BBS2).
THE INFLUENCE OF GEOMETRIC PARAMETERS ON STRENGTH PROPERTIES OF THE AGGREGATES USED TO PRODUCE ASPHALT MIXTURES
Authors: Bulevičius Matas , Petkevičius Kazys , Čirba Stasys
Published: December 2013

Physical and mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures have a significant impact on a condition of fitted pavement, its stability and reliability during the entire period of its operation. These properties not only depend on bituminous binders chosen for an asphalt mixture and properties of mineral filler, but also on geometric and physical properties of the aggregate. An analysis of these indexes showed physical and geometrical indexes of aggregate of different origins (granite, dolomite and gravel). While researching mineral materials used for asphalt mixtures, the values of flakiness and shape index (FI and SI), impact value SZ and Los Angeles coefficient LA were determined. After calculations, the hypotheses for the average of flakiness and shape indexes of researched rocks (granite, dolomite and gravel) and proximity of dispersions were tested in order to determine the authenticity of geometric quality parameters and similarity of their sampling dispersion. Results of statistical data calculations determined a correlation between geometric parameters of researched aggregate FI and SI and geometrical, strength parameters of the aggregate. The hypotheses, whether research data of these indexes were distributed by normal distribution, were tested by drawing frequency histograms of granite, dolomite and gravel flakiness and shape indexes.
A PRECONDITIONED ITERATIVE SOLUTION SCHEME FOR NONLINEAR PARABOLIC SYSTEMS ARISING IN AIR POLLUTION MODELING
Authors: Karatson Janos , Kurics Tamas
Published: December 2013

A preconditioned iterative solution method is presented for nonlinear parabolic transport systems. The ingredients are implicit Euler discretization in time and finite element discretization in space, then an outer-inner (outer damped inexact Newton method with inner preconditioned conjugate gradient) iteration, further, as a main part, preconditioning via an l-tuple of independent elliptic operators. Numerical results show that the suggested method works properly for a test problem in air pollution modeling.
ASYMPTOTICS FOR A DISSIPATIVE DYNAMICAL SYSTEM WITH LINEAR AND GRADIENT-DRIVEN DAMPING
Authors: Wu Yuhu , Xue Xiaoping
Published: December 2013

We study, in the setting of a real Hilbert space H, the asymptotic behavior of trajectories of the second-order dissipative dynamical system with linear and gradient-driven nonlinear damping where λ > 0 and f, Φ: H → R are two convex differentiable functions. It is proved that if Φ is coercive and bounded from below, then the trajectory converges weakly towards a minimizer of Φ. In particular, we state that under suitable conditions, the trajectory strongly converges to the minimizer of Φ exponentially or polynomially.
THREE-LAYER APPROXIMATION OF TWO-LAYER SHALLOW WATER EQUATIONS
Authors: Chertock Alina , Kurganov Alexander , Kurganov Alexander , Qu Zhuolin , Wu Tong
Published: December 2013

Two-layer shallow water equations describe flows that consist of two layers of inviscid fluid of different (constant) densities flowing over bottom topography. Unlike the single-layer shallow water system, the two-layer one is only conditionally hyperbolic: the system loses its hyperbolicity because of the momentum exchange terms between the layers and as a result its solutions may develop instabilities. We study a three-layer approximation of the two-layer shallow water equations by introducing an intermediate layer of a small depth. We examine the hyperbolicity range of the three-layer model and demonstrate that while it still may lose hyperbolicity, the three-layer approximation may improve stability properties of the two-layer shallow water system.
EXPLORING THE EFFECT OF INTERNET MARKETING ORIENTATION, LEARNING ORIENTATION AND MARKET ORIENTATION ON INNOVATIVENESS AND PERFORMANCE: SME (EXPORTERS) PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Aziz Norzalita A. , Omar Nor Asiah
Published: December 2013

This study explores the relationship between Internet Marketing Orientation, Market Orientation, Learning Orientation, Innovation Capabilities and Performance. The study also investigates the role of Internet Marketing Orientation integration in the linkage between Market Orientation-Innovativeness and Learning Orientation-Innovativeness. From an analysis of usable survey data from 101 Bumiputera SMEs-Exporters, three dimensions of Market Orientation (Customer Focus, Inter-Functional Coordination, Information Dissemination), two dimensions of Learning Orientation (Shared Knowledge, and Vision and Commitment to Learning), one dimension of Internet Marketing Orientation and one dimension of Innovation Capabilities and Performance are extracted from the factor analysis results. The results of regression analysis show that Customer Focus, Shared Knowledge and Vision, and Internet Marketing Orientation directly influenced SMEs’ Innovation Capabilities. However, Internet Marketing Orientation is more influential in developing innovation capabilities among SMEs compared to others. While, Shared Knowledge and Vision is the crucial factor in enhancing the business performance among SME (exporters). The relationship among a firm's Internet Marketing Orientation, Learning Orientation, Market Orientation and Innovation Capabilities and Performance are considered a crucial research area in developing countries. The implications for Malaysian SMEs are discussed.
LOGIT MODELS FOR EARLY WARNING OF DISTRESSED CAPITAL PROJECTS
Authors: Chen Hong Long
Published: December 2013

The focus of this study is to demonstrate how probabilistic models may be employed to provide early warnings for distressed capital projects. While identifying the key determinants of project performance is important, few studies test discriminatory power of variables for predicting distressed capital projects. Thus, this longitudinal study of 121 capital projects identifies key variables in the initiation and planning phases of projects that differentiate between healthy and distressed projects at completion. Subsequent univariate logistic analysis shows that the Quality variable provides the highest univariate classification accuracy. Hierarchical logistic-regression analysis reveals high classification accuracy and relatively small differences in overall classification rates. Out-of-sample forecasting validation demonstrates that the optimal model provides a reasonably good overall classification rate of 85.37%. Ultimately, our findings suggest that it is feasible to discriminate simultaneously between healthy and distressed projects prior to the project execution phase in the capital facility delivery process, providing an early warning of projects in distress.
CHINESE AIRLINE COMPETITIVENESS EVALUATION BASED ON EXTENDED BINARY RELATIVE EVALUATION(BRE) MODEL
Authors: Wu Chong , Wang Xin , Zhang Xinying , Li Yongli , O’Brien Brad
Published: December 2013

In order to eliminate the impact of the sample's objective merits on the evaluation results, this research built a two-stage model of Chinese airline competitiveness evaluation to reflect the subjective management and performance. In the first stage, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Factor Analysis (FA) models were used to analyze the data from 2008 to 2009. In the second stage, two kinds of comprehensive evaluation indexes in 2008 were taken as the reference index set, and two kinds of comprehensive evaluation indexes in 2009 as the current index set. The four sets of data were calculated with the Group Decision-making Model Based on Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) with Restraint Cone. This paper has (1) enriched the theory of airline competitiveness,(2) built a more scientific and comprehensive evaluation index system of airlines’ competitiveness, (3) constructed a competitiveness evaluation model based on BRE, and (4) conducted an empirical study of the improved model based on the 2008 and 2009 data from 15 Chinese airlines. The ranking results of the proposed method, theory and model coincide with the real conditions of the airline market demonstrating that our evaluation of airline competitiveness based on BRE is accurate, reliable and objective.
IMPACT OF OWNERSHIP TYPE AND FIRM SIZE ON ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AND ON THE ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE-EFFECTIVENESS LINKAGE
Authors: Zeng Kaisheng , Luo Xiaohui
Published: December 2013

This paper aims to extend the extant (primarily Western) organizational culture literature to emerging economies by explicitly incorporating two key contextual variables-ownership type and firm size into organizational culture model. Based on the theoretical model developed by Denison and his colleagues, we examined the impact of ownership type and firm size on organizational culture, as well as the moderating effect of the two contextual variables on the linkage between organizational culture and firm effectiveness. Using survey data from foreign-invested and state-owned firms in China, we find that ownership type and firm size have significant influence on organizational culture. We also find that different ownership type and firm size result in different organizational cultural effect on performance.
THE VALUE OF BLOCKHOLDERS SHAPED BY MODERATORS
Authors: Rocca Maurizio La , Montalto Fabiola
Published: December 2013

This paper investigates the role of moderators in affecting the relationship between ownership and value. The results generally reveal a positive influence of blockholders on performance, that is significantly affected by moderating factors. The link becomes negative in listed firms, as well as in family ones, and vanishes in financial constrained ones. Moreover, in case of managerial opportunism, the role of blockholders increases the positive effect of ownership on performance. Conversely, new governance reforms, improving the investors’ protection, have resized the centrality of the majority shareholder. Overall, results can be used to make recommendations on how to improve corporate and country-specific governance mechanisms.
FUZZY MULTI-CRITERIA AND MULTI-EXPERTS EVALUATION OF GOVERNMENT INVESTMENTS IN HIGHER EDUCATION: THE CASE OF TURKEY
Authors: Kahraman Cengiz
Published: December 2013

Higher education refers to a level of education that is provided at academies, universities, colleges, seminaries, institutes of technology, and certain other collegiate-level institutions. Government investment policy should be concerned with the marginal rate of return when deciding on whether to increase their expenditure on higher education. Government investment in higher education is a decision making problem, which includes multiple and conflicting criteria. We use fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to take these criteria into account and to handle vague and incomplete data. We also use fuzzy TOPSIS to compare the results of AHP. A case study for Turkey is realized. In this case study, our multi-criteria decision model evaluates three possible higher education investment alternatives. A sensitivity analysis based on different scenarios of experts’ preferences is also given.
NEW MCEQLS TFN METHOD FOR EVALUATING QUALITY AND REUSABILITY OF LEARNING OBJECTS
Authors: Kurilovas Eugenijus , Serikovienė Silvija
Published: December 2013

The aim of the paper is to present a new simple to use and efficient MCEQLS (Multiple Criteria Evaluation of the Quality of Learning Software) TFN (Trapezoidal Fuzzy Numbers) method for the expert evaluation of the quality and reusability of learning objects (LOs). MCEQLS and TFN methods are analysed, improved, and practically applied to present the decision analysis process for selecting LOs suitable to reuse in different pedagogical situations and in different education systems. The research results are implemented in eQNet – a three-year strategic pan-European project focused on reusability of LOs. A novel method of consecutive application of Fuzzy Numbers theory to establish the weights of LOs quality criteria and MCEQLS approach to establish final evaluation results are explored in more detail. A number of multiple criteria decision analysis principles are applied to create a comprehensive quality model (criteria system) for evaluating the quality and reusability of LOs. Several practical examples of LOs evaluated against the proposed MCEQLS TFN method are presented in the paper. The research results have shown that the proposed method is quite objective, exact, simple to use, and efficient for selecting qualitative reusable LOs alternatives in the market.
RAISING EFFECTIVENESS OF ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS BY APPLYING MULTI-CRITERIA DECISION ANALYSIS: PART 1 – PROBLEM DEFINITION
Authors: Marozas Leonardas , Goranin Nikolaj , Cenys Antanas , Radvilavičius Lukas , Turskis Zenonas
Published: December 2013

Currently, control of access to information and physical resources has become extremely important. Numerous methods and solutions for architecture of systems aimed at controlling physical access are available; however, there is little information about application of Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis methods when evaluating separate logical components, needed for the design of access control systems and their interconnection in the final architecture.This paper is the first part of a two-part article, discussing application of multi-criteria decision making for architecture of access control systems. The first part defines the problem and discusses the possibility to use Multi Criteria Decision Making techniques when designing access control systems, including risk analysis for specific criteria and practical application of the developed model. In the second part, the possible solution model will be presented.
DER WEG DER ROTEN FAHNE. ART IN CORRELATION TO ARCHITECTURE, URBAN PLANNING AND POLICY
Authors: Fülscher Christiane
Published: December 2013

The presented research focuses on the relationship between art and architecture. On the example of the mural Der Weg der Roten Fahne (The Path of the Red Flag) installed at the western façade of the Kulturpalast Dresden(Palace of Culture in Dresden) the author analyses the necessity of the mural as an immanent element to communicate political decisions of the German Democratic Republic's government to the public by using architecture. Up until now the mural reinforces the political value of the International Style building in function and shape and links its volume to the urban layout.
THE IMPACT OF STREET PROPERTIES ON COGNITIVE MAPS
Authors: Mohsenin Mahsan , Sevtsuk Andres
Published: December 2013

This paper investigates the relationship between street properties and cognitive maps. It is focused on the question of how human cognition of the built environment is affected by street properties. Building on the foundations of Kevin Lynch's studies of environmental perception (Lynch 1960) and recent configuration measurement techniques of the built environment, it addresses an important question that Lynch has left unresolved: Why do people have more complete recollections of some parts of the urban environment, and not others?

This paper proposes an analytical measurement framework based on graph theory to compare the results of cognitive maps with objective spatial properties of the corresponding built environment. In order to test our hypothesis, street geometry is measured and defined based on graph theory in two selected areas with similar geometries in Kenmore, Boston and Kendall Sq., Cambridge, MA. Cognitive maps are then collected based on specifically designed map drawing surveys. Finally, the relationship between graph results and cognitive maps is examined in order to identify the ways that street properties affect human perception.
HANDLING TRADITION FOR A SYSTEMIC INNOVATION
Authors: Voyatzaki Maria
Published: December 2013

There is always something from the past embedded in the new, establishing a synergetic and sympathetic relationship which gives meaning and value to this new creation. Innovation is about creating new values. Contemporary trends in architectural contemplation and creation are looking into a redefinition of innovation as an inventive systemic synergy of multiple parameters, the dynamic modeling of which, with the aid of new digital technologies, can suggest the appropriate form and materiality of architectural design. Sympathy and synergy are not mere situations, but primarily values that nurture architectural design and open up new challenges for architectural education. Materialised architecture is the expression of worldviews and values. Its form and materiality constitute the meaningful platform on which the relationship between tradition and innovation are represented. Tradition and innovation have always been in a binary opposition. Through the act of creation, invention, innovation, change and transformation are introduced. However, there has always been something in the new that comes from the existent. This condition can become the foundation for a new conception of innovation to emerge, a systemic innovation in which tradition is reflected upon and exploited as a constraint that will leverage and foster it.
Comparative Analysis of Educational Policies Research
Authors: Vasilache Simona , Dima Alina Mihaela
Published: December 2013

The chapter discusses the possibility for European education to convergence in the Bologna framework by studying the literature dedicated to educational policies in leading academic journals. Using a content analysis methodology, the qualitative research aims to highlight the key topics and research concerns of academics in European higher education and to correlate their research focuses, which are being promoted and implemented in European universities as effective policy. The results may serve as guidelines for both policy makers and executives in higher education, as well as for broader categories of stakeholders.
Ontology-based Multi-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm for Deriving Software Services from Business Process Model
Authors: Soltani Mokhtar , Benslimane Sidi Mohamed
Published: December 2013

Various approaches uses business process models as starting point to derive software services. The first and the important task for developing service-oriented models is service identification. However, the majority of existing methods for service identification are developed manually because, on the one hand, they are based on the competence of the developers and, on the other hand, the business process models do not comprise sufficient knowledge to identify services automatically. The integration of Business Process Modeling (BPM), Model-Driven Development (MDD), and Ontology-based Semantic Annotation (OSA) allows the automation of the SOA (Service-Oriented Architecture) services development. Three steps are used for developing an SOA solution: service identification, service specification and finally service realization. In this paper, the authors illustrate a method called MOOSI (Multi-Objective Optimization-based Service Identification) that automatically identifies the architecturally significant elements from an annotated business process model in order to specify service model artifacts. The main goal of this work is to support the automation of the development process of service-oriented enterprise information system. The implementation results of our proposed method are discussed. This result shows that MOOSI can achieve high performance in terms of execution time and important quality in terms of modularization quality of identified services compared with other solution.
CCR1 Inhibition Ameliorates the Progression of Lupus Nephritis in NZB/W Mice
Authors: Bignon Alexandre , Gaudin Françoise , Hémon Patrice , Tharinger Hugo , Mayol Katia , Walzer Thierry , Loetscher Pius , Peuchmaur Michel , Berrebi Dominique , Balabanian Karl
Published: December 2013

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease, the development of which is characterized by a progressive loss of renal function. Such dysfunction is associated with leukocyte infiltration in the glomerular and tubulointerstitial compartments in both human and experimental lupus nephritis. In this study, we investigated the role of the Ccr1 chemokine receptor in this infiltration process during the progression of nephritis in the lupus-prone New Zealand Black/New Zealand White (NZB/W) mouse model. We found that peripheral T cells, mononuclear phagocytes, and neutrophils, but not B cells, from nephritic NZB/W mice were more responsive to Ccr1 ligands than the leukocytes from younger prenephritic NZB/W mice. Short-term treatment of nephritic NZB/W mice with the orally available Ccr1 antagonist BL5923 decreased renal infiltration by T cells and macrophages. Longer Ccr1 blockade decreased kidney accumulation of effector/memory CD4+ T cells, Ly6C+ monocytes, and both M1 and M2 macrophages; reduced tubulointerstitial and glomerular injuries; delayed fatal proteinuria; and prolonged animal lifespan. In contrast, renal humoral immunity was unaffected in BL5923-treated mice, which reflected the unchanged numbers of infiltrated B cells in the kidneys. Altogether, these findings define a pivotal role for Ccr1 in the recruitment of T and mononuclear phagocyte cells to inflamed kidneys of NZB/W mice, which in turn contribute to the progression of renal injury.
(Re)Introducing Communication Competence to the Health Professions
Authors: Spitzberg Brian H.
Published: December 2013

Despite the central role that communication skills play in contemporary accounts of effective health care delivery in general, and the communication of medical error specifically, there is no common or consensual core in the health professions regarding the nature of such skills. This lack of consensus reflects, in part, the tendency for disciplines to reinvent concepts and measures without first situating such development in disciplines with more cognate specialization in such concepts. In this essay, an integrative model of communication competence is introduced, along with its theoretical background and rationale. Communication competence is defined as an impression of appropriateness and effectiveness, which is functionally related to individual motivation, knowledge, skills, and contextual facilitators and constraints. Within this conceptualization, error disclosure contexts are utilized to illustrate the heuristic value of the theory, and implications for assessment are suggested.
The Use of Collaboration to Implement Evidence-Based Safe Practices
Authors: Clarke John R.
Published: December 2013

The Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority receives over 235,000 reports of medical error per year. Near miss and serious event reports of common and interesting problems are analysed to identify best practices for preventing harmful errors. Dissemination of this evidence-based information in the peer-reviewed Pennsylvania Patient Safety Advisory and presentations to medical staffs are not sufficient for adoption of best practices. Adoption of best practices has required working with institutions to identify local barriers to and incentives for adopting best practices and redesigning the delivery system to make desired behaviour easy and undesirable behaviour more difficult. Collaborations, where institutions can learn from the experiences of others, have show decreases in harmful events. The Pennsylvania Program to Prevent Wrong-Site Surgery is used as an example. Two collaborations to prevent wrong-site surgery have been completed, one with 30 institutions in eastern Pennsylvania and one with 19 in western Pennsylvania. The first collaboration achieved a 73% decrease in the rolling average of wrong-site events over 18 months. The second collaboration experienced no wrong-site operating room procedures over more than one year.
A Case of Error Disclosure: A Communication Privacy Management Analysis
Authors: Petronio Sandra , Helft Paul R. , Child Jeffrey T.
Published: December 2013

To better understand the process of disclosing medical errors to patients, this research offers a case analysis using Petronios's theoretical frame of Communication Privacy Management (CPM). Given the resistance clinicians often feel about error disclosure, insights into the way choices are made by the clinicians in telling patients about the mistake has the potential to address reasons for resistance. Applying the evidenced-based CPM theory, developed over the last 35 years and dedicated to studying disclosure phenomenon, to disclosing medical mistakes potentially has the ability to reshape thinking about the error disclosure process. Using a composite case representing a surgical mistake, analysis based on CPM theory is offered to gain insights into conversational routines and disclosure management choices of revealing a medical error. The results of this analysis show that an underlying assumption of health information ownership by the patient and family can be at odds with the way the clinician tends to control disclosure about the error. In addition, the case analysis illustrates that there are embedded patterns of disclosure that emerge out of conversations the clinician has with the patient and the patient's family members. These patterns unfold privacy management decisions on the part of the clinician that impact how the patient is told about the error and the way that patients interpret the meaning of the disclosure. These findings suggest the need for a better understanding of how patients manage their private health information in relationship to their expectations for the way they see the clinician caring for or controlling their health information about errors.
Disclosure of Adverse Events in the United States and Canada: An Update, and a Proposed Framework for Improvement
Authors: Wu Albert W. , Boyle Dennis J. , Wallace Gordon , Mazor Kathleen M.
Published: December 2013

There is consensus that physicians, health professionals and health care organizations should discuss harm that results from health care delivery (adverse events), including the reasons for harm, with patients and their families. Thought leaders and policy makers in the USA and Canada support this goal. However, there are gaps in both countries between patients and physicians in their attitudes about how errors should be handled, and between disclosure policies and their implementation in practice. This paper reviews the state of disclosure policy and practice in the two countries, and the barriers to full disclosure. Important barriers include fear of consequences, attitudes about disclosure, lack of skill and role models, and lack of peer and institutional support. The paper also describes the problem of the second victim, a corollary of disclosure whereby health care workers are also traumatized by the same events that harm patients. The presence of multiple practical and personal barriers to disclosure suggests the need for a comprehensive solution directed at multiple levels of the health care system, including health departments, institutions, local managers, professional staff, patients and families, and including legal, health system and local institutional support. At the local level, implementation could be based on a translating-evidence-into-practice framework. Applying this framework would involve the formation of teams, training, measurement and identification of local barriers to achieving universal disclosure of adverse events.
Fragmentation of Patient Safety Research: A Critical Reflection of Current Human Factors Approaches to Patient Handover
Authors: Manser Tanja
Published: December 2013

The integration of human factors science in research and interventions aimed at increased patient safety has led to considerable improvements. However, some challenges to patient safety persist and may require human factors experts to critically reflect upon their predominant approaches to research and improvement. This paper is a call to start a discussion of these issues in the area of patient handover. Briefly reviewing recent handover research shows that while these studies have provided valuable insights into the communication practices for a range of handover situations, the predominant research strategy of studying isolated handover episodes replicates the very problem of fragmentation of care that the studies aim to overcome. Thus, there seems to be a need for a patient-centred approach to handover research that aims to investigate the interdependencies of handover episodes during a series of transitions occurring along the care path. Such an approach may contribute to novel insights and help to increase the effectiveness and sustainability of interventions to improve handover.
A 3-Year Serological and Virological Cattle Follow-Up in Madagascar Highlands Suggests a Non-Classical Transmission Route of Rift Valley Fever Virus
Authors: Nicolas Gaëlle , Durand Benoit , Rakotoarimanana Tafika Tojofaniry , Lacote Sandra , Chevalier Véronique , Marianneau Philippe
Published: December 2013

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-borne infection of livestock and human which causes a potentially severe disease. In 2008–2009, a RVF outbreak occurred in a temperate and mountainous area located on the highlands of Madagascar. A three-year cattle follow-up (2009–2011) was conducted in a pilot area of this highland. A seroprevalence rate of 28% was estimated in 2009 and a seroconversion rate of 7% in 2009–2010. A third cross-sectional survey showed a seroconversion rate of 14% in 2010–2011. In 2011 the longitudinal study suggested a RVFV circulation during the year. In this area where vectors density is low and cattle exchanges are linked to the virus local spread, we raise hypotheses that may explain the local persistence of the virus.
A New Insight into the Morphology of the Human Liver: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Vinnakota Sunitha , Jayasree Neelee
Published: December 2013

Background. Day to day advances in the fields of radiology like sonography and CT need to revive interest in the cadaveric study of morphological features of liver, as the accessory fissures are a potential source of diagnostic errors. Accessory fissures vary from single to multiple over different parts of the liver. Aim. In the present study the morphological features of human liver specimens were evaluated by macroscopic examination and morphometric analysis. Methods. The study was conducted on 58 specimens obtained from cadavers utilized for routine dissection for medical undergraduates from the year 2004 to 2012 in the Anatomy Department of MIMS Medical College. Results. In the present study the livers as described in the established anatomical literature with normal surfaces, fissures, and borders were considered normal. Out of the 58 specimens, 24 were normal without any accessory fissures or lobes and with normal contours. Two specimens were with hypoplastic left lobes. Lingular process of left lobe was observed in only one specimen. Conclusions. Knowledge of the various accessory fissures of liver prevents misdiagnosis of cystic lesions or any pathological lesions of the liver.
Microencapsulation Quality and Efficiency of Lactobacillus casei by Spray Drying Using Maltodextrin and Vegetable Extracts
Authors: Hernández-Carranza Paola , López-Malo Aurelio , Jiménez-Munguía Maria-Teresa
Published: December 2013

Survival and quality efficiency of Lactobacillus casei microencapsulated by spray drying using different vegetable extracts (asparagus, artichoke, orange or grapefruit peel) were evaluated. Aqueous suspensions of the vegetable extracts with or without maltodextrin (adjusting to 25% w/w) were prepared for the microencapsulation of L. casei. The evaluated spray drying conditions were at a fixed air inlet temperature (Tin) of 145 °C and varying the aqueous suspensions flux (Q) of 10 or 15 g/min. Survival of L. casei was evaluated after the spray drying process and after 60 days of storage at 25 °C. The quality efficiency of the microencapsulated L. casei was evaluated by measuring in the product, physicochemical properties (moisture content, aw), determining moisture gain and modeling adsorption isotherms, besides analyzing micrographs. Results demonstrated that moisture content of the different spray drying powders was less than 2% wb and less than 0.30 of aw. It was evidently that the use of maltodextrin reduced 50% the powders moisture gain (hygroscopicity) therefore reducing stickiness problems during storage. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) confirmed individual particles formation with a homogeneous coat when using vegetable extracts+maltodextrin and hence better powder quality than without it. The microbial reduction of L. casei after the spray drying process was of one log cycle and significantly different (p < 0.05) with the presence of maltodextrin when using orange or grapefruit peel. A microbial population over 107 cfu/g of L. casei microencapsulated was maintained after 60 days of storage which guarantees its use to develop functional food.
Mycodiversity of Nature Reserves in Central Italy
Authors: Salerni Elena , Perini Claudia
Published: December 2013

Seven nature reserves situated in the province of Arezzo (Tuscany, Central Italy), presenting various habitats, plants and animals of comunitary interest according to the Habitat Directive, have been observed from a myco-floristic viewpoint. A synthesis of the results on fungal investigations is given. Interesting the finding of rare species such as Ramariopsis pulchella and Mycena diosma.
Mycological monitoring in the Hungarian Biodiversity Monitoring System
Authors: Pál-Fám Ferenc , Siller Irén , Fodor Lívia
Published: December 2013

The results of a mycological monitoring, carried out from 2001 until 2003 in two forest reserves (in the Bükk and the Mecsek Mountains) within the frame of a project of the Hungarian Biodiversity Monitoring System (HBMS) aiming to monitor forest reserves and managed forests, are presented. Standard sampling method had to be developed and methods of data analysis (a so-called protocol) had to be elaborated for monitoring activities.
Xylaria oxyacanthae Tul. et C. Tul., a new species for Poland
Authors: Kujawa Anna , Karasiński Dariusz
Published: December 2013

The paper presents information about Xylaria oxyacanthae Tul. & C. Tul., a new species for Poland. The fungus was for the first time found in the mid-field shelterbelt near Turew village and in the city park in Kraków.
New data on some rare species of Hyphomycetes from Lithuania
Authors: Markovskaja Svetlana
Published: December 2013

The paper presents new data on ecological peculiarities of five anamorphic fungi species, Cladorrhinum foecundissimum, Dwayaangam cornuta, Lateriramulosa uni-inflata, Pyramidospora herculiformis and Tetraploa setifera, their distribution and substrate preferences are discussed. Short description, illustration and map of localities in Lithuania of recorded species are presented.
Biodiversity of zoosporic fungi in polluted water drainages across Niles’Delta region, Lower Egipt
Authors: Ali Esam H.
Published: December 2013

Thirty-four identified in addition to five unidentified species appertaining to ten genera of zoosporic fungi were identified and isolated from eighty four polluted water samples, which were randomly collected from different polluted sites of the water drainages along the Niles Delta in Lower Egypt. Baiting sesame seeds culture technique was employed at 20±2º C for the recovery of zoosporic fungi. The genera; Pythium and Saprolegnia (8 and 7 zoosporic fungal species, respectively) showed the broadest spectra of species diversity whereas Aqualinderella was only represented by one species (A. fermentans). Saprolegnia delica and Dictyuchus carpophorus (the greatest fungal populations) were the most dominant isolated zoosporic fungal species where they were highly occurred especially at the hyper-polluted waters with the heavy metals. These two species could be considered as indicators for the response of the structure and function of microbial communities for water pollution. Several zoosporic fungal species were rarely encountered. Both Aqualinderella fermentans and Pythium rostratum were recovered in moderate frequency of occurrence. Water samples which had high concentrations in heavy metals were the poorest in the species diversity of zoosporic fungi. Despite that, fungal species belonging to the family Saprolegniaceae flourished in hyper polluted water samples whilst those belonging to the family Pythiaceae predominated in more diluted water samples. Also, the prevalent species; S. delica and D. carpophorus were not affected by heavy metals concentrations being as indicators for water pollution with the heavy metals. pH values of the polluted water samples had no influence on the occurrence of zoosporic fungi. Water samples characterized by high organic matter content and low total soluble salts were the richest in zoosporic fungal species.