bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The E3 SUMO ligase Nse2 regulates sumoylation and nuclear-to-cytoplasmic translocation of skNAC-Smyd1 in myogenesis
Authors: Berkholz Janine , Michalick Laura , Munz Barbara
Published: July 2014

Skeletal and heart muscle-specific variant of the alpha subunit of nascent polypeptide associated complex (skNAC) is exclusively found in striated muscle cells. Its function, however, is largely unknown. Previous reports could demonstrate that skNAC binds to Smyd1/m-Bop, a multi-functional protein regulating myogenesis both via the control of transcription and the modulation of sarcomerogenesis, and that both proteins undergo nuclear-to-cytoplasmic translocation at later stages of myogenic differentiation. Here, we show that skNAC binds to the E3 SUMO ligase mammalian Mms21/Nse2 and that knockdown of Nse2 expression inhibits specific aspects of myogenic differentiation, accompanied by a partial blockade of the nuclear-to-cytoplasmic translocation of the skNAC/Smyd1 complex, retention of the complex in PML-like nuclear bodies, and disturbed sarcomerogenesis. In addition, we show that the skNAC interaction partner Smyd1 contains a putative sumoylation motif and is sumoylated in muscle cells, with depletion of Mms21/Nse2 leading to reduced concentrations of sumoylated Smyd1. Taken together, our data suggest that the function, specifically the balance between nuclear and cytosolic roles of the skNAC/Smyd1 complex, might be regulated by sumoylation.
Μέτρηση δεικτών φλεγμονής και αυξητικών παραγόντων που ενέχονται στην παθογένεια του συνδρόμου ενδομήτριας καθυστέρησης της ανάπτυξης (IUGR)
Authors: Καλαμπόκας Εμμανουήλ
Published: July 2014

Στόχος: Ο σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης ήταν να διαπιστωθεί αν τα επίπεδα των Human Adiponectin (HA), Placental Growth Factor (PLGF) και Annexin Α5 σε δείγματα αμνιακού υγρού από το δεύτερο τρίμηνο της κύησης συνδέονται με τον ενδομήτριο περιορισμό της ανάπτυξης του εμβρύου (IUGR).Σχεδιασμός μελέτης: Δείγματα αμνιακού υγρού από το δεύτερο τρίμηνο της κύησης συλλέχθηκαν με αμνιοπαρακέντηση κατά τις 15-22 εβδομάδες της κύησης από 300 έγκυες γυναίκες. H Human Adiponectin, o PLGF και η Annexin Α5 προσδιορίστηκαν με τη μέθοδο ELISA σε 21 IUGR, σε 13 LGA έμβρυα και 44 AGA έμβρυα που αποτελούσαν την ομάδα ελέγχου. Αποτελέσματα: H adiponectin και ο PLGF ανιχνεύθηκαν στο ΑΥ. Η διάμεση συγκέντρωση της adiponectin (25η–75η εκατοστιαία θέση), ήταν 16.1 (10.9-32.3) ng/ml στα IUGR, 19.5 (15.1-30.9) ng/ml στα AGA και 18.2 (14.7-30.8) ng/ml στα LGA. Η διάμεση συγκέντρωση του PLGF (25η–75η εκατοστιαία θέση), ήταν 24.2 (19.9–34.9) pg/ml στα IUGR, 26.4 (20.9–33.8) pg/ml στα AGA και 33.5 (21.8-40.4) pg/ml στα LGA. Οι διαφορές δεν ήταν στατιστικά σημαντικές. Παρ 'όλα αυτά, υπάρχει ένδειξη της διαφοροποίησης των συγκεντρώσεων στα IUGR και LGA έμβρυα που βρίσκονται στις ακραίες εκατοστιαίες θέσεις της κατανομής. Η Annexin Α5 δεν ανιχνεύτηκε στα δείγματα αμνιακού υγρού.Συμπέρασμα: Η μελέτη υποδεικνύει την πιθανή σχέση της adiponectin και του PLGF στο αμνιακό υγρό σε παρεκκλίσεις της εμβρυικής ανάπτυξης,14όπως τα IUGR και LGA έμβρυα. Η καλύτερη κατανόηση των εν λόγω διαταραχών μπορεί να προσφέρει νέες προοπτικές για παρεμβάσεις ελέγχου που θα ξεκινήσουν νωρίτερα στην κύηση.
Structural integrity assessment of aerostructures using innovative non-destructive evaluation techniques
Authors: Γραμματικός Σωτήριος
Published: July 2014

Προηγμένα σύνθετα υλικά χρησιμοποιούνται κατά κόρον στην αεροναυπηγική τεχνολογία τα τελευταία χρόνια λόγω των εξαιρετικών μηχανικών τους ιδιοτήτων. Η αεροναυπηγική βιομηχανία επενδύει στην έρευνα προηγμένων συνθέτων υλικών με σκοπό την περαιτέρω αύξηση των ειδικών μηχανικών τους ιδιοτήτων. Παράλληλα, η ολοένα αυξανόμενη ηλικία του αεροναυπηγικού στόλου έχει ανάγκη από νέες τεχνολογίες επισκευής οι οποίες θα διασφαλίσουν αξιόπιστες κατασκευές στα αεροσκάφη και εν συνεχεία ασφαλείς πτήσεις. Όπως είναι προφανές, καινοτόμοι Μη-Καταστροφικοί Έλεγχοι (ΜΚΕ) κρίνονται ως υψίστης σημασίας σε αεροδιαστημικές κατασκευές, σκοπεύοντας στην αποδοτική και ολοκληρωμένη εκτίμηση της δομικής τους ακεραιότητας. Αντικείμενο της διατριβής είναι η αξιολόγηση εσωτερικής βλάβης σε σύνθετα υλικά πολυμερικής μήτρας και ινώδους ενίσχυσης αλλά και σε επισκευές με χρήση επικολλώμενων επιθεμάτων ινωδών συνθέτων υλικών πολυμερικής μήτρας, κάνοντας χρήση πληθώρας καινοτόμων ΜΚΕ. Πιο αναλυτικά, έλαβε χώρα ποιοτική αξιολόγηση κατασκευών και υλικών μέσω ηλεκτρικών, θερμογραφικών αλλά και ακουστικών μεθόδων ΜΚΕ. Οι ηλεκτρικές τεχνικές χρησιμοποιήθηκαν για καταγραφή αλλά και χαρτογράφηση βλάβης μέσω μέτρησης της ηλεκτρικής αντιστάσεως όπως και του ηλεκτρικού δυναμικού. Η μέθοδοι Θερμογραφίας που μελετήθηκαν ήταν η Θερμογραφίας παλμού, φάσης παλμού όπως και η Θερμογραφία lock-in. Η τεχνική ακουστικής εκπομπής αλλά και η μέθοδος υπερήχων (B /C-scan) χρησιμοποιήθηκαν ως επαληθευτικές /συνδυαστικές τεχνικές σε όλα τα στάδια της διατριβής. Στο πλαίσιο της διατριβής, αναπτύχθηκε μια καινοτόμος προσέγγιση ΜΚΕ η οποία συνδυάζει τις τεχνικές Θερμογραφίας και ηλεκτρικών ιδιοτήτων όπου χρησιμοποιείται συνεχές ηλεκτρικό ρεύμα ως εξωτερική πηγή θερμικής διέγερσης.Οι εξεταζόμενες μεθοδολογίες της διατριβής μη-καταστροφικού ελέγχου μελετήθηκαν ξεχωριστά αλλά και σε συνδυασμό για την ανίχνευση και παρακολούθηση βλάβης σε ποικιλία υλικών και κατασκευών χρησιμοποιώντας διάφορους τύπους εξωτερικής διέγερσης αλλά και αυτό-διάγνωσης. Συγκεκριμένα, η δομική αξιολόγηση των εξεταζόμενων υλικών μελετήθηκε σε δύο επίπεδα: σε εκτός (κατά απαίτηση) λειτουργίας και εν-λειτουργία (σε πραγματικό χρόνο) συνθήκες. Σε πρώτη φάση η έλαβε χώρα η ανίχνευση βλάβης σε κατάσταση εκτός λειτουργίας, όπως είθισται σε περιπτώσεις συντήρησης αεροσκαφών. Στη συνέχεια, οι ΜΚΕ τεχνικές εφαρμόσθηκαν σε πραγματικό χρόνο για την παρακολούθηση της δημιουργίας και εξέλιξης βλάβης σε εν-λειτουργία συνθήκες. Η αποτίμηση της αποδοτικότητας των ΜΚΕ σε κατασκευαστικές λεπτομέρειες, προηγήθηκε του αποκορυφώματος της διατριβής, το οποίο ήταν η χρήση η παρακολούθηση και αποτίμηση βλάβης σε μια πραγματική κατασκευή ενός φτερού ελικοπτέρου (SW–4 /PZL-Swidnik /AgustaWestland).
Κυανό και αιθυνυλό-πυρανονουκλεοζίτες
Authors: Κυρίτσης Χρήστος
Published: July 2014

Τα τελευταία χρόνια, τα νουκλεοζιτικά ανάλογα έχουν προσελκύσει μεγάλο επιστημονικό ενδιαφέρον λόγω των πολλά υποσχόμενων θεραπευτικών τους εφαρμογών. H παρούσα διατριβή εστιάστηκε κυρίως στη σύνθεση νέων διακλαδισμένων C-κυανο ή C-αιθυνυλο νουκλεοζιτών, οι οποίοι διαθέτουν εξαμελή υδατανθρακικό δακτύλιο. Λαμβάνοντας υπόψη τα πρόσφατα ευρήματα ότι πολλοί διακλαδισμένοι C-κυανο και C-αιθυνυλο φουρανονουκλεοζίτες αποτελούν αντιικούς παράγοντες, και βασιζόμενοι στο γεγονός ότι ένας αριθμός αυτών έχει αναφερθεί ότι εμφανίζει ισχυρές και ευρέως φάσματος αντικαρκινικές ιδιότητες, θεωρήθηκε ενδιαφέρουσα η σύνθεση νέων τάξεων διακλαδισμένων πυρανονουκλεοζιτών, οι οποίοι θα φέρουν την κυανο και την αιθυνυλο ομάδα ως διακλαδισμένη αλυσίδα στον υδατανθρακικό δακτύλιο.Αρχικά αναφέρθηκε η σύνθεση μιας νέας τάξης νουκλεοζιτικών αναλόγων τα οποία φέρουν την αιθυνυλομάδα στην 3΄ θέση του σακχάρου. Η παρουσία του τριπλού δεσμού στους C-αιθυνυλο-πυρανονουκλεοζίτες αποτέλεσε αφορμή για τη σύνθεση νέων δικέφαλων νουκλεοζιτών. Επιπρόσθετα, ελήφθησαν οι 3΄-C-κυανο-πυρανονουκλεοζίτες ακολουθώντας μια παρόμοια σειρά αντιδράσεων όπως αυτή που χρησιμοποιήθηκε για τα C-αιθυνυλο-παράγωγα. Επίσης παρουσιάστηκε η σύνθεση των αντίστοιχων 3΄-δεοξυ-3΄-C-κυανο-πυρανονουκλεοζιτών. Σε μια προσπάθεια να μελετηθούν οι σχέσεις δομής δράσης στους διακλαδισμένους C-κυανο πυρανονουκλεοζίτες, επιτεύχθηκε και η σύνθεση των 4΄-C-κυανο και 4΄-δεοξυ-4΄-C-κυανο αναλόγων. Τέλος, αναπτύχθηκε ένα απλό και αποτελεσματικό πρωτόκολλο για τη σύνθεση των 2΄-C-κυανο και 2΄-δεοξυ-2΄-C-κυανο πυρανονουκλεοζιτών. Τα νέα 2΄-υποκατεστημένα ανάλογα μετατράπηκαν εν συνεχεία στα πυρανονουκλεοζιτικά ανάλογα που έφεραν ένα σπειρανικό δακτύλιο στη 2΄-θέση του σακχάρου.Οι τελικοί νουκλεοζίτες αποτιμήθηκαν για τις αντιικές και κυτταροστατικές τους ιδιότητες χρησιμοποιώντας διάφορα ιικά στελέχη και καρκινικές κυτταρικές σειρές. Είναι αξιοσημείωτο ότι κάποια C-κυανο νουκλεοζιτικά ανάλογα, εμφάνισαν παρόμοιο φάσμα κυτταροστατικότητας με αυτό της ελεύθερης 5-φθοροουρακίλης.
Ταυτόχρονος φθορισμομετρικός προσδιορισμός βιογενών αμινών σε δείγματα τροφίμων με τις τεχνικές της υγρής χρωματογραφίας υψηλής πίεσης και των διαδοχικών εγχύσεων.
Authors: Νότου Μαρία
Published: July 2014

Οι βιογενείς αμίνες, σε χαμηλές συγκεντρώσεις, είναι απαραίτητες για πολλές φυσιολογικές λειτουργίες του ανθρώπινου οργανισμού. Αντίθετα, σε υψηλές συγκεντρώσεις μπορεί να εμφανίσουν τοξική δράση, που καθορίζεται από την επιδεκτικότητα του κάθε ατόμου και την πιθανή παρουσία παραγόντων, που δρουν συνεργιστικά. Τα κλινικά συμπτώματα εμφανίζονται άμεσα και συνήθως είναι ήπια, ωστόσο έχουν αναφερθεί ακόμη και θανατηφόρα περιστατικά. Για το λόγο αυτό, κρίνεται απαραίτητη η ανάπτυξη ευαίσθητων, εκλεκτικών και αξιόπιστων μεθόδων ελέγχου των επιπέδων των βιογενών αμινών στα λεγόμενα τρόφιμα υψηλής επικινδυνότητας, όπως τα ιχθυηρά και τα τυριά, αλλά και σε τρόφιμα ευρείας κατανάλωσης, όπως το γάλα. Στην παρούσα διατριβή αναπτύχθηκαν και βελτιστοποιήθηκαν χρωματογραφικές μέθοδοι για τον ταυτόχρονο προσδιορισμό μίγματος βιογενών αμινών σε τρόφιμα ζωικής προέλευσης, μετά από παραγωγοποίησή τους με ναφθαλινο-2,3-δικαρβοξαλδεΰδη. Κατά την ανάπτυξη των μεθόδων, μελετήθηκαν και βελτιστοποιήθηκαν οι συνθήκες του χρωματογραφικού διαχωρισμού, της αντίδρασης παραγωγοποίησης και της φθορισμομετρικής ανίχνευσης. Η παραγωγοποίηση πραγματοποιήθηκε πριν το χρωματογραφικό διαχωρισμό είτε με συμβατικό τρόπο είτε αυτοματοποιημένα με σύζευξη του χρωματογραφικού συστήματος με αναλυτή διαδοχικής έγχυσης δείγματος σε ροή. Επίσης, βρέθηκαν οι βέλτιστες συνθήκες προκατεργασίας για δείγματα φρέσκου και κονσερβοποιημένου τόνου, τυριού φέτας, κασεριού, ημιαποβουτυρωμένου αγελαδινού και σοκολατούχου γάλακτος, καθώς και πλήρους αγελαδινού γάλακτος. Στην παρούσα διατριβή παρουσιάζεται για πρώτη φορά η ανίχνευση των κυανο-βενζο-ισοϊνδολο-παραγώγων των βιογενών αμινών σε τρόφιμα, καθώς και η παραγωγοποίηση σε συνθήκες ροής με το συγκεκριμένο αντιδραστήριο. Η παραγωγοποίηση με το συγκεκριμένο αντιδραστήριο αποδείχτηκε ιδιαίτερα εκλεκτική και ευαίσθητη, προσφέροντας τουλάχιστον μία τάξη μεγέθους υψηλότερη ευαισθησία για όλες τις αμίνες συγκριτικά με άλλες μεθόδους που χρησιμοποιούν παραγωγοποίηση με ΟΡΑ και Dns-Cl (εκτός από την πουτρεσκίνη και την καδαβερίνη). Η ενσωμάτωση του αναλυτή SIA στο χρωματογραφικό σύστημα, επιτρέπει την πλήρως αυτοματοποιημένη παραγωγοποίηση, ελαχιστοποιώντας το χρόνο αντίδρασης και τα σφάλματα χειρισμού. Όλες οι αναπτυχθείσες μέθοδοι κάνουν χρήση απλών προγραμμάτων έκλουσης, που οδηγούν στον πλήρη διαχωρισμό όλων των αναλυτών. Οι μέθοδοι περιλαμβάνουν μία απλή, αποτελεσματική, σύντομη και χαμηλού κόστους προκατεργασία των δειγμάτων, τα οποία εγχύονται στο χρωματογραφικό σύστημα χωρίς να απαιτείται περαιτέρω καθαρισμός τους. Η καλή γραμμικότητα, οι ικανοποιητικές ανακτήσεις, η υψηλή ευαισθησία και ακρίβεια, και η εξαιρετική ευρωστία των μεθόδων αυτών συνιστούν τη χρήση τους για αναλύσεις υψηλής ποιότητας.
Information Analysis System for Evaluation of Fire-risk Seasons Intensity
Authors: Коган  , Kogan R. , Глаголев  , Glagolev V.
Published: July 2014

The paper develops a method of calculating the fire-risk seasons intensity index. It creates an information analysis system for significant rates’ determination, interpolation and calculation of boundary values, calculation of intensity index on the basis of partial and generalized desirability functions, examining tendencies and causes of fire intensity change. The system is designed for assessment of fire-risk seasons based on the range of natural-anthropogenic factors, and for analysis of formation, tendencies and causes of fire-danger for vegetation in different regions. System verification was processed in the Khabarovsk territory and Jewish autonomous region and illustrated through seasons of the second half of XX – beginning of XXI centuries. It revealed a high correlation rate between intensity index and fire density, and indicated areas with low, medium and high intensity.
A PRELIMINARY CATHENA THERMALHYDRAULIC MODEL OF THE CANADIAN SCWR FOR SAFETY ANALYSIS
Authors: Wang D.F. , Wang S.
Published: July 2014

The supercritical water-cooled reactor (SCWR) is one of six reactor concepts under development in the Generation-IV International Forum (GIF). As a member of GIF, Canada is developing a pressure-tube type SCWR, which has the potential to fulfill all major GIF goals on enhanced safety, sustainability, economics, and proliferation resistance. The system thermalhydraulics code CATHENA will be used in the safety analyses for the Canadian SCWR. Based on the current conceptual design of the Canadian SCWR, a CATHENA idealization has been developed. This model includes all 336 fuel channels with a detailed model of heat transfer in the reactor core. Also modeled are the main pumps, inlet plenum, outlet plenum, turbines, and heavy water moderator. In this paper, the CATHENA idealization of the Canadian SCWR conceptual design is described. Simulation results for steady-state normal operations are also presented for the current Canadian SCWR conceptual design.
A novel approach to reconstruct a large full thickness abdominal wall defect: Successful treatment with Matriderm® and Split
Authors: Tong E. , Martin F. , Shelley O.
Published: July 2014

Objective:

Reconstruction of large abdominal wall defects is a challenging procedure, often contraindicated in critically ill patients, with high incidences of complications. We present a case of a patient with a large abdominal wall defect who had reconstruction with MatriDerm® (an engineered dermal template) and split thickness skin grafting (SSG) as an alternative to reconstruction with myo- or fascio-cutaneous flaps. Successful wound closure was achieved with a single technique, while providing a robust reconstruction and an interface between skin and underlying viscera, should further surgery be necessary.
Effective safety-netting in prescribing practice
Authors: Silverston Paul
Published: July 2014

There are a number of steps that need to be taken during the prescribing process, such as clinical assessment, clinical decision-making and developing and implementing a safe management plan for the patient. It is essential to incorporate the principles and practices of effective safety-netting into the patient management plan to protect both the patient and the clinician. This article will discuss the importance of developing good safety-netting skills and demonstrate their use in clinical practice.
Gas-Phase Plume from Laser-Irradiated Fiberglass-Reinforced Polymers via Imaging Fourier Transform Spectroscopy
Authors: Acosta Roberto I. , Gross Kevin C. , Perram Glen P. , Johnson Shane M. , Dao Ly , Medina David F. , Roybal Robert , Black Paul
Published: July 2014

Emissive plumes from laser-irradiated fiberglass-reinforced polymers (FRP) were investigated using a mid-infrared imaging Fourier transform spectrometer, operating at fast framing rates (50 kHz imagery and 2.5 Hz hyperspectral imagery) with adequate spatial (0.81 mm2 per pixel) and spectral resolution (2 cm−1). Fiberglass-reinforced polymer targets were irradiated with a 1064 nm continuous wave neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser for 60 s at 100 W in air. Strong emissions from H2O, CO, CO2, and hydrocarbons were observed between 1800 and 5000 cm−1. A single-layer radiative transfer model was developed for the spectral region from 2000 to 2400 cm−1 to estimate spatial maps of temperature and column densities of CO and CO2 from the hyperspectral imagery. The spectral model was used to compute the absorption cross sections of CO and CO2 using spectral line parameters from the high-temperature extension of the HITRAN. The analysis of pre-combustion spectra yields effective temperatures rising from ambient to 1200 K and suddenly increasing to 1515 K upon combustion. The peak signal-to-noise ratio for a single spectrum exceeds 60:1, enabling temperature and column density determinations with low statistical error. For example, the spectral analysis for a single pixel within a single frame yields an effective temperature of 1019 ± 6 K, and CO and CO2 column densities of 1.14 ± 0.05 and 1.11 ± 0.03 × 1018 molec/cm2, respectively. Systematic errors associated with the radiative transfer model dominate, yielding effective temperatures with uncertainties of > 100 K and column densities to within a factor of 2–3. Hydrocarbon emission at 2800 to 3200 cm−1 is well correlated with CO column density.
Structural Characterization of Hydrogen Peroxide-Oxidized Anthracites by X-ray Diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and Raman Spectra
Authors: Zhang Yude , Kang Xiaojuan , Tan Jinlong , Frost Ray L.
Published: July 2014

The structural characteristics of raw coal and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-oxidized coals were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectra, and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The results indicate that the derivative coals oxidized by H2O2 are improved noticeably in aromaticity and show an increase first and then a decrease up to the highest aromaticity at 24 h. The stacking layer number of crystalline carbon decreases and the aspect ratio (width versus stacking height) increases with an increase in oxidation time. The content of crystalline carbon shows the same change tendency as the aromaticity measured by XRD. The hydroxyl bands of oxidized coals become much stronger due to an increase in soluble fatty acids and alcohols as a result of the oxidation of the aromatic and aliphatic C-H bonds. In addition, the derivative coals display a decrease first and then an increase in the intensity of aliphatic C-H bond and present a diametrically opposite tendency in the aromatic C-H bonds with an increase in oxidation time. There is good agreement with the changes of aromaticity and crystalline carbon content as measured by XRD and Raman spectra. The particle size of oxidized coals (<200 nm in width) shows a significant decrease compared with that of raw coal (1 μm). This study reveals that the optimal oxidation time is ∼24 h for improving the aromaticity and crystalline carbon content of H2O2-oxidized coals. This process can help us obtain superfine crystalline carbon materials similar to graphite in structure.
Editorial
Authors: Guadagna Roberto
Published: July 2014

Nota editorial N° 1
Una manera de optimizar el portfolio financiero
Authors: Mas María Magdalena
Published: July 2014

Este trabajo es el informe final del curso de Posgrado de Matemática y Finanzas con Matlab, dictado por el Dr Carlos Neuman en el marco de la Maestría de Matemática de la Facultad de Ingeniería Química de la Universidad Nacional del Litoral. El tema que se aborda en éste trabajo es la Optimización de un Portfolio de acciones tomando como datos el Superfondo de Acciones del Banco Santander; cuyo objetivo es estudiar los aspectos matemáticos del problema de Optimización de Portfolios aplicando la teoría de Markowitz y utilizando el Matlab. La metodología está basada en un diseño cualitativo, de investigación documental no estadística, teórica. En una primera etapa, la investigación se inició como exploratoria, para luego transformarse en descriptiva. Se trata además de una investigación orientada a la aplicación. De carácter no experimental, dado que se observan fenómenos "económicos" como se dan en su contexto natural para después analizarlos. En un primer momento se indaga sobre los conceptos básicos referidos a las Finanzas formando un Glosario (que se adjunta al final del trabajo). Luego se investiga específicamente sobre el Modelo de Markowitz. En un tercer momento se analizan las funciones propias de Finanzas en el Matlab. Por último se aplica lo estudiado a un caso concreto. Como resultado se obtuvo la conformación de un portfolio óptimo, donde se logra la mayor rentabilidad para un nivel de riesgo mínimo acordado.
Medidas de Diversificación y su Aplicabilidad a las Cooperativas de Comercialización de Granos Santafesinas
Authors: Depetris de Guiguet Edith
Published: July 2014

A pesar de que gran parte de las "cooperativas agropecuarias" argentias son multiactivas, muy poco se ha investigado sobre el grado de diversificación, sus causas, sus consecuencias sobre el desempeño y competitividad empresarial y sectorial. Esta característica, a nivel global, también dificulta el uso de estadísticas oficiales dado que la clasificación existente no permite distinguir entre actividades principales y secundarias y no hay indicadores adicionales en ese sentido. Ante esa carencia, este estudio evalúa la aplicabilidad de medidas de diversificación seleccionadas a las cooperativas que comercializan granos en la provincia de Santa Fe y la consistencia de sus resultados. Adicionalmente, haciendo uso de las mismas a nivel provincial, explora diferencias en el grado de diversificación de las cooperativas según la localización regional y el tamaño. Los indicadores utilizados muestran coherencia en los resultados, reconociéndose limitaciones metodológicas en su elaboracion por los diferentes criterios de exposición de resultados seccionales de las cooperativas. Se recomienda profundizar el análisis de criterios qeu permitan un mejor conocimiento y armado de una base estadística sectorial que sea confiable para los propios integrantes y para quienes tienen que tomar decisiones de política sectorial.
Abordaje Analítico Versus Abordaje por Medios Tecnológicos
Authors: Municoy María Cecilia
Published: July 2014

El presente artículo aborda la problemática de la conveniencia y/o ventajas que presenta el desarrollo analítico de un concepto matemático frente a la resolución por medios tecnológicos a través de un ejemplo concreto, como es el caso de la resolución de un sistema de ecuaciones diferenciales con solución en el campo complejo. Se focalizan las diferencias que presentan ambos abordajes.
Investigación científica: El registro contable de transacciones no exteriorizadas. El caso de los blanqueos tributarios
Authors: Hauque Sergio , Haquín Nestor
Published: July 2014

Más allá de las discusiones sobre los posibles defectos del sistema de información contable ligados a diferencias en los criterios de reconocimiento de elementos patrimoniales y su valuación, el principal elemento de distorsión de la información contable en los entes pequeños y medianos de nuestro país resultan las “transacciones no registradas” surgidas del imperio de una economía informal. El trabajo concluye que la principal consecuencia de las diferencias entre la Macro y la Microcontabilidad en relación con la exteriorización de estas transacciones, consiste en que la primera debería sólo corregir su información con los datos que surjan de estas “amnistías fiscales”, mientras que la segunda deberá registrar concienzudamente sus efectos. Esto es así, porque estas exteriorizaciones de activos tienen origen en transacciones de períodos anteriores no declaradas que determinaban la existencia de hechos imponibles no tomados en cuenta en los informes contables de los entes privados y del Sector Público.
Divulgación científica: El nuevo escenario global: tendencias y perspectivas
Authors: Buchieri Flavio , Wheber Pablo
Published: July 2014

La crisis financiera acaecida primero en Estados Unidos y luego exportada a Europa, principalmente a través del stress en los mercados provocados por las debilidades emergentes de las economía de Grecia, España, Irlanda y Portugal, abren el debate acerca de cuáles son los principales tópicos que en materia económica –y política- dominarán la agenda mundial en los próximos años. Agenda que refleja los desequilibrios existentes y donde nuevos actores han aparecido con peso estratégico en la arena del juego geo-estratégico a nivel internacional. Actores que no sólo desafían liderazgos sino que obligarán, en muchos casos, a discutir quiénes, dónde y cómo se toman decisiones que afectan al curso del desarrollo futuro del planeta.
La extensión universitaria está tramando medios comunitarios
Authors: Arach Minella Karina , Schmuck María Emilia , Wursten Andrés Gabriel
Published: July 2014

En el Equipo de Medios del Área de Comunicación Comunitaria de la Facultad de Ciencias de Educación de la Universidad Nacional de Entre Ríos trabajamos en formación y extensión universitaria desde marzo de 2009 con la intención de hacer intervenciones de comunicación comunitaria en comunidades educativas. De esta iniciativa surge el Proyecto de Extensión “Comunicación y juventudes: tramando medios comunitarios”. Su finalidad es capacitar para la construcción colectiva de un medio de comunicación comunitario en las siguientes instituciones escolares: Escuela de Educación Técnica Particular Incorporada nº 2028 San Lorenzo, de la ciudad de Santa Fe, y Escuela EPNM nº 3 Monseñor Doctor Abel Bazán y Bustos de la ciudad de Paraná.
Adultos mayores: desafíos ciudadanos en escenarios de vulnerabilidad y riesgo
Authors: Marzioni Cristina , López Liliana , Córdoba Anabella
Published: July 2014

A fines de 1986, un pequeño grupo multidisciplinario reflota con la normalización universitaria en esta Universidad Nacional del Litoral, luego de casi veinte años de oscurantismo democrático: período de silencio que determinara que desde la Facultad de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales durante todo ese lapso se interrumpiera la investigación en Ciencias Sociales.En la temática gerontológica comienza siendo una investigación unipersonal, avalada por esta unidad académica y subsidiada y aprobada por el Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas de la Nación. Finalmente se convierte en multidisciplinaria al sumar la Ciencias Médicas para redactar las líneas de acción de política normativa para nuestro país. Dicha temática continúa en forma ininterrumpida a partir de ese año hasta nuestros días, convirtiéndose tímidamente en multidisciplinaria primero e interdisciplinaria más tarde.
Interaction of linear polyamines with negatively charged phospholipids: the effect of polyamine charge distance
Authors: Finger Sebastian , Schwieger Christian , Arouri Ahmad , Kerth Andreas , Blume Alfred
Published: July 2014

The binding of cationic polyamines to negatively charged lipid membranes is driven by electrostatic interactions and additional hydrophobic contributions. We investigated the effect of polyamines with different number of charges and charge separation on the phase transition behavior of vesicles of phosphatidylglycerols (dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol and dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol) to differentiate between effects caused by the number of charges, the charge distance, and the hydrophobicity of the methylene spacer. Using differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy complemented with monolayer experiments, we found that the binding constant of polyamines to negatively charged lipid vesicles depends as expected on the number of charges. However, for diamines, the effect of binding on the main phase transition of phosphatidylglycerols (PGs) is also strongly influenced by the charge distance between the ammonium groups in the backbone. Oligoamines with charges separated by two or three methylene groups bind more strongly and have larger stabilizing effects on the lipid gel phase of PGs. With multivalent polyamines, the appearance of several transition peaks points to effects of molecular crowding on the surface, i.e., binding of only two or three charges to the surface in the case of spermine, and possible concomitant domain formation.
Biophysical and biochemical analysis of hnRNP K: arginine methylation, reversible aggregation and combinatorial binding to nucleic acids
Authors: Moritz Bodo , Lilie Hauke , Naarmann-de Vries Isabel S. , Urlaub Henning , Wahle Elmar , Ostareck-Lederer Antje , Ostareck Dirk H.
Published: July 2014

Analysis of arginine methylation, which affects specific protein interactions in eukaryotic cells, requires access to methylated protein for biophysical and biochemical studies. Methylation of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K) upon co-expression with protein arginine methyltransferase 1 in E. coli was monitored by mass spectrometry and found to be identical to the modification of hnRNP K purified from mammalian cells. Recombinant non-methylated and arginine-methylated hnRNP K (MethnRNP K) were used to characterize self-aggregation and nucleic acid binding. Analytical ultracentrifugation and static light scattering experiments revealed that hnRNP K methylation does not impact reversible self-aggregation, which can be prevented by high ionic strength and organic additives. Filter binding assays were used to compare the binding of non-methylated and MethnRNP K to the pyrimidine repeat-containing differentiation control element (DICE) of reticulocyte 15-lipoxygenase mRNA 3′ UTR. No affinity differences were detected for both hnRNP K variants. A series of oligonucleotides carrying various numbers of C4 motifs at different positions was used in steady state competition assays with fluorescently-labeled functional differentiation control element (2R). Quantitative evaluation indicated that all hnRNP K homology domains of hnRNP K contribute differentially to RNA binding, with KH1–KH2 acting as a tandem domain and KH3 as an individual binding domain.
Primary Intracranial Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma
Authors: Sebastián Cristina , Vela Ana Carmen , Figueroa Ramón , Marín Miguel Ángel , Alfaro Jorge
Published: July 2014

Low-grade B cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas typically arise from the marginal zone of the secondary lymphatic follicles. Their intracranial expression is very rare, most frequently affecting the dura mater and the choroid plexus glomi in the lateral ventricles. Their initial evaluation requires the exclusion of more common extra-axial lesions, such as meningiomas, dural metastasis, granulomatous lesions or secondary lymphoproliferative dural extension from body lymphomas. Whenever a ventricular lesion is present, the patient's age and lesion location help narrow the differential diagnosis. Dural-based lymphomas and ventricular/choroid plexus lymphomas are slow-growing lesions with imaging features similar to meningiomas, which is typically their main differential consideration. Diffusion-weighted images frequently show restricted diffusion behaviour on lymphomas, helping to differentiate them from the typical meningiomas.
The effect of nitrogen fertilization and crop year precipitation on the protein and wet gluten content of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain
Authors: Horváth Cs. , Kis J. , Tarnawa Á. , Kassai K. , Nyárai H. , Jolánkai Márton
Published: July 2014

Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield samples taken from a consecutive series of crop years representing drought, normal and moist conditions at the Nagygombos experimental site of the Szent István University have been evaluated. The impact of N topdressing and crop year conditions on the performance of protein and wet gluten content were studied.The results suggest that ascending levels of N topdressing, and increased number of applications had a beneficial effect on the protein content, as well as on wet gluten values. Crop year had a significant effect on quality manifestation. The drier the crop year, the better the recorded quality performance. The magnitude of changes was bigger in case of gluten than in that of protein values. There were minor differences between the two varieties examined, especially in their response patterns to nitrogen supply. Dough formation depends mainly on the gliadin/ glutenin ratio, but there is less information on the agronomic and climatic impacts that may cause alterations in that.
Spatial variation of contaminant elements in roadside dust of Budapest and Seoul
Authors: Sager M. , Chon H. , Márton László
Published: July 2014

Roadside dusts were studied to explain the spatial variation, and present level of contaminant elements (including Pt, Pd and Ir) in Budapest and Seoul, the capitals of Hungary and Seoul. Road dust samples were obtained twice from traffic focal points in Budapest centre (four bridges, Margaret Island, two main railway stations, main roads) and the agglomeration (suburbs) of Budapest. Similarly, samples were collected from six sites having high traffic volumes in Seoul metropolitan city and from two control sites within the suburbs of Seoul, for comparison. The samples were analysed for contaminant elements by ICP-AES and for Pt, Pd and Ir by ICP-MS.The level of contaminant elements in road dusts were in the range of 67.6 g∙kg−1 and 0.6 μg∙kg−1 for Budapest; 50.2 g∙kg−1 and 0.5 μg∙kg−1 for Budapest suburbs; 43.5 g∙kg−1 and 3.3 μg∙kg−1 for Seoul samples. The Geo-Accumulation Indexes (GAI) of contaminant elements for Budapest, Budapest suburbs and Seoul ranged between 3.88 and −0.03; 2.74 and −0.13; 4.23 and 1.22; Pollution Indexes (PI) of the contaminant elements were in the range of 4.2 and 0.6; 0.9 and 0.4; 7.8 and 2.7; Contamination Indexes (CI) of the contaminant elements ranged from 27.1 to 3.3; 4.9 to 2.7; 21.8 to 10.2, respectively.Pt, Pd and Ir concentration levels (μg∙kg−1) were in the range of 133 and 1.9, 170 and 12.8, 4.5 and 0.4 for Budapest; 37 and 3.6, 39.4 and 11.3, 0.8 and 0.2 for Budapest suburbs; 98.5 and 25.6, 148 and 30.6, 5.6 and 2.1 for Seoul.Correlations between the Pollution Index (PI) and Contamination Index (CI) of the platinum metals in road dust samples were: −0.4090 (Ir), −0.3098 (Pd), −0.1994 (Pt) for Budapest centre; 0.8343 (Ir), −0.7652 (Pt), −0.7626 (Pd) for Budapest bridges; 0.5266 (Ir), −0.2863 (Pd), −0.0333 (Pt) for Budapest suburbs; and 0.3193 (Pd), 0.2874 (Ir), −0.0017 (Pt) for Seoul, respectively. The highest Pt, Pd and Ir levels in road dusts were found in samples originating from the major roads with high traffic volume. Significant differences in Pollution Index (PI) and Contamination Index (CI) between Seoul and Budapest were 4.0 and 5.9 for heavy traffic roads; 2.9 and 11.0 for roads with light traffic. Light traffic roads reflect that an important source of Pt, Pd and Ir in roadside environment is the automobile catalytic converter. Road dusts with high Pt, Pd and Ir levels were enriched with traffic-related contaminant elements as well.
How income influences the choice of tourism destination?
Authors: Djeri Lukrecija , Armenski Tanja , Jovanović Tamara , Dragin Aleksandra
Published: July 2014

This paper tries to contribute to the literature that covers the issues of the decision-making process when choosing a tourism destination by conducting a survey among the inhabitants of the Bačka region (province of Vojvodina in the Republic of Serbia). Following the information-processing theory, the decision-making process is defined with the five phases: need awareness, information search, estimation of alternatives, purchase, and purchase evaluation. 252 respondents took part in the research. Multivariate analysis (MANOVA) and discriminative analysis were used in the statistical procedure of data analysis. The results show that the level of income does not affect the first phase of need awareness, but strongly affects all the other phases of the decision-making process. The researchers also managed to address the most sensitive and vulnerable indicators of the decision-making process. Finally, comprehensive management implications for practitioners are discussed.
Clinical Benefit Assessment of Vismodegib Therapy in Patients With Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Dreno Brigitte , Basset-Seguin Nicole , Caro Ivor , Yue Huibin , Schadendorf Dirk
Published: July 2014

Purpose.

Vismodegib was approved for the treatment of advanced basal cell carcinoma (aBCC) based on the pivotal ERIVANCE BCC study. The primary endpoint (objective response rate [ORR]) was assessed 9 months after the last patient was enrolled. To confirm the clinical benefit of vismodegib, an additional analysis was performed 12 months after the primary analysis.

Materials and Methods.

ERIVANCE BCC was a multicenter, nonrandomized, two-cohort study of 104 patients with histologically confirmed aBCC. Patients received 150 mg oral vismodegib daily until disease progression, intolerable toxicity, or withdrawal. An independent review panel comprising three expert clinicians reviewed patient photographs individually and as a consensus panel to evaluate baseline disease severity and clinical benefit after vismodegib treatment in 71 patients with locally advanced BCC (laBCC).

Results.

Sixty-three patients were efficacy evaluable; baseline and postprogression photographs for 61 were available for review. Baseline disease severity was judged as 5 or 4 (very severe or moderately severe) in 71.4%. Clinical benefit was observed in 76.2% (significant: 65.1%; some: 11.1%). Interpanelist agreement (maximum difference ≤1 point among panelists’ scores in 65.1% and 87.3% of patients for clinical benefit and baseline disease severity, respectively) and correlation between individual and panel reviews were strong. Clinical benefit scores showed good concordance with the protocol-specified ORR obtained by an independent review facility and with investigator-assessed response.

Conclusion.

Clinical benefit assessed by independent review based on expert clinical judgment provides strong evidence that treatment with vismodegib results in clinically meaningful and durable responses in patients with laBCC.
Dependence of Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale Wigg.) Seed Reproduction Indices on Intensity of Motor Traffic Pollution
Authors: Erofeeva Elena A.
Published: July 2014

Dandelion ( Taraxacum officinale Wigg.) seed reproduction indices such as the total number of seeds, the number of normally developed seeds and underdeveloped seeds per anthodium, and seed weight are suggested to assess the level of environmental pollution (bioindication). However, the non-monotonic dose-response dependences (hormesis and paradoxical effects) of these indices are insufficiently explored upon exposure to pollution. We studied the dependence of some T. officinale seed reproduction indices on intensity of motor traffic pollution in wide range of values over 2 years of observation. In 2010, the increase in traffic intensity induced a monotonic increase in the total seed number and the number of normally developed seeds. Besides, motor traffic pollution decreased the number of undeveloped seeds and seed weight in comparison with the control. In 2011, for all studied T. officinale indices except seed weight, complicated non-monotonic dependences on traffic intensity were found that could be attributed to paradoxical effects. It is hypothesised that the significant differences in the studied dependencies in 2010–2011 were caused by changes in weather conditions because traffic intensity did not differ significantly between the two observation years.
The impact of education on adolescents’ sun behavior: Experiences from Serbia
Authors: Miljkovic Suzana , Baljozovic Djordje , Krajnovic Dusanka , Tasic Ljiljana , Sbutega-Milosevic Gorica
Published: July 2014

Introduction. In Serbia, there have been no broad campaigns or educational
programs focused on adolescents? sun protection. Objective. The aim of the
study was to assess whether an educational program would have impact on
changes of attitudes and sun-protective behaviors of high school students.
More specific aim was to examine whether sex and age differences in sun
behavior exists. Methods. Educational program was designed to provoke changes
in attitudes towards sun protection and sun behavior. The investigation was
carried out in Belgrade, Serbia in two educational cycles, during spring 2007
and 2008. Sixteen- and 17-year old high schools students were targeted and
assessed before and after the educational intervention by means of
self-report questionnaire designed for this study (about skin types and sun
behavior). The students? attitudes towards sun protection and sun behavior
before and after the educational intervention were compared and analyzed by
the Pearson's chi-square test and logistic regression analyses. In the second
educational cycle (2008) age and gender differences in sun behavior were
analyzed. Results. Overall 3205 students in 2007, and 2155 students in 2008
year from 11 high schools participated. A statistically significant behavior
change was observed for the use of sunglasses in 2007 - the number of
students using them increased from 41.6 % to 45.6% (p<0.05). There were no
significant changes in other ways of protection i.e. sunscreen use,
protective clothes or staying in shade. Conclusion. Educational program had
an impact, but broader activities involving schools, local communities and
media are needed for significant changes in sun behavior and attitude.
Teachers' Perceptions of National Identity in the English and Taiwanese Citizenship Curricula: Civic or Ethnic Nationalism?
Authors: Hung Cheng-Yu
Published: July 2014

This article examines and compares the hotly debated issue of national identity in the Taiwanese and English citizenship curricula and investigates the extent to which schoolteachers' perceptions fall in line with the written curriculum. The author describes the background to the evolution of national identity in each country. Following this preliminary understanding, the theory of civic-ethnic nationalism is used as the criterion to examine the nature of nationalism underlying the curriculum. The Taiwanese citizenship curriculum with its 60-year long history has transformed from being a tool for the promotion of an ‘imagined’ Chinese national identity to a more Taiwan-oriented programme. With fewer disagreements, ‘Britishness’, as a consensual identity constructed from a civic construct, creates an inclusive umbrella to accommodate citizens with different ethnic, cultural, and religious identities. However, English citizenship education teachers question whether it has a robust-enough and deep-enough magnet to engage every citizen with varying backgrounds and further enhance social consolidation. On the other hand, this umbrella-type national identity seems to provide a valid solution for the Taiwanese citizenship curriculum designers to heal the long-lasting tensions caused by the ‘Taiwanese-Chinese identity’ divide. On closer examination, the Taiwanese curriculum chooses to sidestep this contentious issue and is therefore strongly criticised by the school teachers interviewed here. This research attempts to demonstrate the strengths and limitations of each curriculum's discourses of national identity and suggest what each may learn from each other.
Foreign Language Teaching: An International Comparison of Teacher Beliefs
Authors: Kissau Scott , Rodgers Marion , Haudeck Helga
Published: July 2014

Recent research has reported professional agreement among foreign language (L2) teachers with respect to the beliefs and behaviors associated with effective L2 teaching. While such research may contribute to an emerging professional consensus, it must be acknowledged that the participating teachers in the related studies were all living and working in the United States. To better understand if the teaching beliefs agreed upon by hundreds of American L2 teachers are supported by L2 teachers in other countries, the researchers used a mixed methodology to compare the beliefs of over 250 L2 teachers and L2 teacher candidates in the United States and Germany to investigate the extent to which the two groups shared similar beliefs about L2 teaching. The study's results suggested there to be a core set of fundamental beliefs associated with effective L2 teaching held by both groups. However, they also underscored the influence of contextual factors in each country on the degree to which various beliefs and behaviors associated with L2 teaching are deemed appropriate. These results serve to inform all teachers currently teaching or planning to teach an L2 abroad.
Did the 2007 PCAOB Disciplinary Order against Deloitte Impose Actual Costs on the Firm or Improve Its Audit Quality?
Authors: Boone Jeff P. , Khurana Inder K. , Raman K. K.
Published: July 2014

We examine whether the December 2007 PCAOB disciplinary order against Deloitte affected Deloitte's switching risk, audit fees, and audit quality relative to the other Big 4 firms over a three-year period following the censure. Our findings suggest that the PCAOB censure was associated with a decrease in Deloitte's ability to retain clients and attract new clients, and a decrease in Deloitte's audit fee growth rates. However, methodologies used in extant archival studies yield little or no evidence to suggest that Deloitte's audit quality was different from that of the other Big 4 firms during a three-year window either before or after the censure. Overall, our results suggest that the PCAOB censure imposed actual costs on Deloitte.

Data Availability: All data are publicly available.
Statistical Analyses of Bioaerosol Concentration at Municipal Landfill Site
Authors: Frączek Krzysztof , Różycki Henryk , Ropek Dariusz
Published: July 2014

Air microbial quality of the municipal landfill site and in its surroundings was evaluated. Adverse impact of the municipal landfill site in Tarnow on the atmospheric environment was noted, despite the use of correct waste disposal technology. The sampling site and season of the year significantly affected the numbers of various groups of air microorganisms at the municipal landfill site and in its vicinity. For most cases, the effects of the sampling site on the microbial numbers were stronger than that of the season of the year. In this study, higher microbial numbers were observed at the sampling sites located in the area of the active landfill site compared to those located in its vicinity. The obtained results indicate, that despite the lack of current limits for bioaerosol levels the landfill site, even after its closing and reclamation, may still not be a suitable place for any public usage. Therefore, any regular microbiological studies of air should be carried out for a long time both at the area of landfill site and in its vicinity. These results could allow to define the time, when the landfill site become stable, regarding the numbers of microorganisms released to air.
Technical and Economic Aspects of Photovoltaic Conversion of Southern Poland
Authors: Rodziewicz Tadeusz , Zaremba Aleksander , Wacławek Maria
Published: July 2014

The article presents the results of a 13-year tests and analysis of performance and energy and electrical charge yield for typical photovoltaic modules made of different absorbers. Modules were installed on the south wall of Opole University building (at kard. B. Kominka Street). Registered in this period (2001-2013) values energy and charge of tested modules are presented in reference to 1 Wp their nominal power and to 1 m2 of PV modules. Their annual and monthly distributions, with particular emphasis on the seasonal changes of its parameters and phenomena of aging and degradation of the PV modules structure were shown. In the final part of the article was presented an economic analysis of the profitability of investment in 20 kWp grid connected PV system with and without implemented the program to support investment in renewable energy, which respect to the newly implemented in Poland Act on RES.
Application of Generalized Student’s T-Distribution In Modeling The Distribution of Empirical Return Rates on Selected Stock Exchange Indexes
Authors: Purczyńskiz Jan , Bednarz-Okrzyńska Kamila
Published: July 2014

This paper examines the application of the so called generalized Student’s t-distribution in modeling the distribution of empirical return rates on selected Warsaw stock exchange indexes. It deals with distribution parameters by means of the method of logarithmic moments, the maximum likelihood method and the method of moments. Generalized Student’s t-distribution ensures better fitting to empirical data than the classical Student’s t-distribution.