bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responsabilidad de las entidades financieras en eventos de fraudes electrónicos
Authors: Guarnizo Muñoz Paula Natalia , Segura Contreras María Camila
Published: March 2019

Este artículo fue desarrollado con el ánimo de analizar la responsabilidad de las entidades bancarias en eventos de fraudes electrónicos desde los tópicos de la responsabilidad subjetiva y objetiva, para luego determinar cuál es la más adecuada. Desde este último, fue necesario abordar el ámbito de las teorías del riesgo para comprobar si la responsabilidad de las entidades en estos eventos se ajustaría o no a ellas. Además de ello, para cumplir con el objetivo planteado, el ejercicio del estudio está dado en la comprensión de la labor encargada a la Superintendencia Financiera respecto de la protección a los consumidores financieros, y por otro lado, el de su entendimiento de que esta actividad se reputa de interés general. Todo esto para llegar a la conclusión que en relación a los casos de fraudes electrónicos la responsabilidad por parte de las entidades financieras es objetiva.
Secuelas de la armonización en el derecho privado
Authors: Pulido Riveros Juan C.
Published: March 2019

En el año 2012, mediante la Ley 1563 “por medio de la cual se expide el Estatuto de Arbitraje Nacional e Internacional y se dictan otras disposiciones” (Diario Oficial 48.489 de 12 de julio de 2012), el Estado colombiano adoptó la ley modelo de arbitraje comercial internacional de la Comisión de las Naciones Unidas para el Derecho Mercantil Internacional (en adelante CNUDMI o UNCITRAL, por sus siglas en ingles) de 1985, reformada en 2006. La adopción de la mencionada Ley, se enmarca dentro al proceso de armonización jurídica internacional que se ha fortalecido en las últimas décadas. Al mismo tiempo, la profusión de dicha armonización, se explica por el acomodamiento que ante los replanteamientos de paradigmas traídos por la globalización, está experimentando a escala global el derecho privado en sus distintas aristas. Ahora bien, siendo que la armonización jurídica internacional es susceptible de ser acogida en los estados nacionales mediante distinta s vías –básicamente, mediante la jurisprudencia, la práctica contractual y la legislación–, éste escrito centra su atención en la asimilación del proceso de armonización que opera en virtud de la iniciativa tomada por el legislador colombiano, como cuando en la elaboracion de una ley se guia por una norma de soft law, i.e. una guía legislativa o ley modelo. Puestas así las cosas, este artículo plantea el estudio del Estatuto de Arbitraje Internacional Colombiano como resultado del proceso de armonización jurídica internacional. En ese contexto, se hace alusión a si dicha clase de secuelas de la armonización jurídica internacional, pueden ser consideradas como manifestaciones de la nueva lex mercatoria, tan en boga actualmente en la doctrina.
Límites de la dignidad humana
Authors: Ardila Arévalo Camilo Andrés
Published: March 2019

This paper proposes to answer if a non-human animal which is used in circuses can be considered subject of law regarding to the value of human dignity as it is established by the Constitution of 1991. Therefore, the discourses about human dignity and inclusion of non-human animals as subjects of law are explored. Consequently, at the end, it will be evident the manner in which these discourses have influenced the case of the use of wild animals in circuses.
Evaluación, valores y tecnología
Authors: Vera Hernández María Cristina
Published: March 2019

This article aims to discuss the issue of utilizing technology in schooling compared with long established educational methods and practices as well as their impact on the ethical behavior of future generations. Education became a big business. It assumed the teaching of human values. This education is a mission that must be given at home. That idea generated different sorts of speeches out of the realia. This believed also created opposing paradigms not capable to face the social needs and challenges of the 21st century. The ethical and moral standards look to be outdated. It seems that new generations do not want to be acquainted with these issues.
Fomento de la cultura solidaria en el proceso de asimilación del conflicto interno colombiano dentro de la formación de los nuevos profesionales, como primer paso para la construcción de la paz
Authors: Zapateiro Altamiranda Orlando , Ávila Martínez Karolina , Aristizabal William David
Published: March 2019

En la actualidad Colombia vive en un entorno de conflicto y desigualdad que conlleva a situaciones de injusticia social al interior de las diferentes regiones que estructuran la geografía nacional, muchas de ellas carentes de oportunidades que permitan satisfacer necesidades fundamentales para el desarrollo sostenido y sustentable de la comunidad. Si bien es cierto que la economía es uno de los motores que impulsa el desarrollo armónico de un país, es la educación en valores y principios el eje transversal que funciona como punta de lanza para la creación de una sociedad solidaria, ávida de paz y con fundamentos democráticos sólidos. Por lo mencionado, las instituciones de educación superior de Colombia deben considerar como uno de sus objetivos perfilar su estructura de formación humanística hacia una cultura de solidaridad, basada en el desarrollo del pensamiento crítico y de la diversidad, que oriente con una mirada consecuente al nuevo profesional en todas sus disciplinas hacia el cuestionamiento de la problemática social nacional, y que sea capaz de generar ambientes de paz para enfrentar la era del pos-conflicto en el país.
Aspectos de innovación schumpeteriano
Authors: Labarcés Ballestas Carlos
Published: March 2019

La redistribución del ingreso y el dinamismo económico de un país se sustenta sobre la competitividad empresarial y de la capacidad emprendedora de sus habitantes. Es decir, un emprendedor y empresario individual detecta oportunidades de negocio que explota a través de pequeñas y medianas empresas en cuyo capital, normalmente, participa; lleva a cabo un arbitraje o simplemente “vende la idea”, tiene un perfil de ingenio, busca incesante nuevas alternativas. Dado el resultado de esta actividad económica, se genera un cambio social, financiero y moral en la vida del emprendedor y empresario, visionarios en el mundo económico. El empresario schumpeteriano se asocia con un perfil de iniciativa, visión, imaginación y emociones (Goss, 2005); de ahí que rompe los esquemas tradicionales, el dogmatismo y se sumerge de dotes de liderazgo para hacer una transformación en la organización (Schumpeter, 1934). Ese proceso de transformación en la teoría Schumpeteriana es atractivo para hacer aplicaciones en las organizaciones modernas del mundo actual; sin embargo, ¿cuáles son los pilares que hacen que el proceso de la destrucción creativa sea inminente en las nuevas empresas? Si bien en la apertura de este artículo de investigación no se pretende a ciencia cierta describir todos los pilares que sostienen de una u otra forma las posibilidades de acercarse a los aspectos que Schumpeter plantea como revolución empresarial, pero sí dejar evidente los principales pilares que conduzcan a aplicar la destrucción creativa como arma estratégica en las unidades de negocios. Finalmente, se logran cambios transformacionales que promueven una ventaja ante otras organizaciones y se goza de un beneficio extra, producto de una cultura innovadora continua, para enfrentar los retos del mundo en etapa de posmodernidad.
Incidencia del tlc colombia-estados unidos en las pymes con vocación exportadora
Authors: Márceles Guerrero Victor S.
Published: March 2019

El presente artículo tiene como propósito presentar la incidencia del Tratado de Libre Comercio, TLC, vigente en 2013 entre Colombia y los Estados Unidos de América, EE.UU. en las Pymes colombianas con vocación exportadora. Para llevar a cabo el propósito planteado, se ha organizado el trabajo con los siguientes tópicos: 1. Antecedentes del TLC Colombia–EE.UU.; 2. Síntesis de los aspectos relevantes del APC Colombia -EE.UU.-: su Alcance y Contenido; 3. El APC entre la República de Colombia y EE.UU. a un año de su entrada en vigencia, y 4. Conclusiones y Recomendaciones para un mejor aprovechamiento de las oportunidades de negocios por parte de las Pymes colombianas con vocación exportadora, en el marco del APC entre la República de Colombia y EE.UU.
Fungi pathogenic to humans: molecular bases of virulence of Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Aspergillus fumigatus.
Authors: Karkowska-Kuleta Justyna , Rapala-Kozik Maria , Kozik Andrzej
Published: March 2019

The frequency of severe systemic fungal diseases has increased in the last few decades. The clinical use of antibacterial drugs, immunosuppressive agents after organ transplantation, cancer chemotherapy, and advances in surgery are associated with increasing risk of fungal infections. Opportunistic pathogens from the genera Candida and Aspergillus as well as pathogenic fungi from the genus Cryptococcus can invade human organism and may lead to mucosal and skin infections or to deep-seated mycoses of almost all inner organs, especially in immunocompromised patients. Nowadays, there are some effective antifungal agents, but, unfortunately, some of the pathogenic species show increasing resistance. The identification of fungal virulence factors and recognition of mechanisms of pathogenesis may lead to development of new efficient antifungal therapies. This review is focused on major virulence factors of the most common fungal pathogens of humans: Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus and Cryptococcus neoformans. The adherence to host cells and tissues, secretion of hydrolytic enzymes, phenotypic switching and morphological dimorphism contribute to C. albicans virulence. The ability to grow at 37 degrees C, capsule synthesis and melanin formation are important virulence factors of C. neoformans. The putative virulence factors of A. fumigatus include production of pigments, adhesion molecules present on the cell surface and secretion of hydrolytic enzymes and toxins.
Involvement of Rac/Cdc42/PAK pathway in cytoskeletal rearrangements.
Authors: Szczepanowska Joanna
Published: March 2019

The p21-activated kinases (PAKs) are serine/threonine protein kinases interacting with small GTPases - Rac and Cdc42. PAKs are found in most eukaryotes and play an evolutionarily conserved role in many cellular processes. Six human PAKs have been identified, and based on homology, they can be classified into two groups. This review focuses specifically on the role of Rac/Cdc42 regulated PAKs in maintaining and remodeling cytoskeletal structure in various organisms. A list of PAKs substrates and binding partners implicated directly and indirectly in cytoskeletal reorganization is presented. Also perturbations of the Rac/Cdc42/PAK pathway leading to tumorigenesis and neurodegenerative diseases are reviewed.
Influence of vitamin D(3) analogues in combination with budesonid R on proliferation of nasal polyp fibroblasts.
Authors: Rostkowska-Nadolska Beata , Fraczek Marcin , Gawron Wojciech , Latocha Małgorzata
Published: March 2019

Vitamin D (VD) and its different analogues, besides their classic role as regulators of calcium and phosphor homeostasis, have emerged as a large family of antiproliferative agents. Such properties suggested VD potential as a therapy for chronic inflammatory diseases, including nasal polyposis (NP). NP growth involves both an inflammatory process and the proliferation of fibroblast as an important factor inducing aberrations in the phenotype of the epithelium. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible influence of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (calcitriol) and 1alpha,24(R)-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (tacalcitol) in monotherapy and in combination with budesonid R (BR) on NP fibroblast proliferation.
The study involved 26 samples of NP. NP cells were cultured on 96-well plates beginning with a concentration of 5 x 10(3) cells per well with RPMI 1640 medium supplemented with antibiotics and 10% foetal bovine serum. After the fourth to sixth passage the medium was replaced with a nutrient medium with calcitriol or tacalcitol in a defined concentration (from 10(-9) M to 10(-3) M) alone or in combination with BR in 1:1, 1:3 or 3:1 ratios, each at concentrations from 10(-5) M to 10(-3) M.
Growth inhibition of nasal fibroblasts exposed to calcitriol or tacalcitol was noted. Significant antiproliferating activity was observed at calcitriol concentrations of 10(-4) M and 10(-3) M after 48 h, and at a concentration of 10(-3) M after 72 h with the percentage of proliferating cells reduced to 30% compared to the control samples (P < 0.05). In cells treated with tacalcitol the maximal effect was seen at 10(-4) M after 48 h and at 10(-3)M after 72 h with a 60% inhibition with respect to the control (P < 0.05). The inhibition of fibroblast proliferation reached the maximal level when they were exposed to calcitriol: BR (1 : 1) or tacalcitol: BR (1 : 1), each at a concentration of 10(-4) M, after 72 h (82% and 69%, respectively).
The antiproliferative activity of calcitriol and tacalcitol in NP cultures was confirmed. Because of its lower toxicity and higher activity tacalcitol seems to be the more promising agent in NP therapy, both as a single medication and in treatment protocols with BR.
A comparative study of the effects of genistein, estradiol and raloxifene on the murine skeletal system.
Authors: Sliwiński Leszek , Folwarczna Joanna , Nowińska Barbara , Cegieła Urszula , Pytlik Maria , Kaczmarczyk-Sedlak Ilona , Trzeciak Hanna , Trzeciak Henryk I
Published: March 2019

Genistein, a major phytoestrogen of soy, is considered a potential drug for prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of genistein, estradiol and raloxifene on the skeletal system in vivo and in vitro. Genistein (5 mg/kg), estradiol (0.1 mg/kg) or raloxifene hydrochloride (5 mg/kg) were administered daily by a stomach tube to mature ovariectomized Wistar rats for 4 weeks. Bone mass, mineral and calcium content, macrometric parameters and mechanical properties were examined. Also the effects of genistein, estradiol and raloxifene (10(-9)-10(-7) M) on the formation of osteoclasts from neonatal mouse bone marrow cells and the activity of osteoblasts isolated from neonatal mouse calvariae were compared. In vivo, estrogen deficiency resulted in the impairment of bone mineralization and bone mechanical properties. Raloxifene but not estradiol or genistein improved bone mineralization. Estradiol fully normalized the bone mechanical properties, whereas genistein augmented the deleterious effect of estrogen-deficiency on bone strength. In vitro, genistein, estradiol and raloxifene inhibited osteoclast formation from mouse bone marrow cells, decreasing the ratio of RANKL mRNA to osteoprotegerin mRNA expression in osteoblasts. Genistein, but not estradiol or raloxifene, decreased the ratio of alkaline phosphatase mRNA to ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase 1 mRNA expression in osteoblasts. This difference may explain the lack of genistein effect on bone mineralization observed in ovariectomized rats in the in vivo study. Concluding, our experiments demonstrated profound differences between the activities of genistein, estradiol and raloxifene towards the osseous tissue in experimental conditions.
Arginase isoenzymes in human cirrhotic liver.
Authors: Chrzanowska Alicja , Gajewska Beata , Barańczyk-Kuźma Anna
Published: March 2019

Cirrhosis leads to an inability of the liver to perform its biochemical functions. It can also lead to hepatocellular carcinoma in which, as we showed lately, arginase isoenzyme pattern changes. The present work presents our results on arginase isoenzymes and their possible role in liver cirrhosis. The study was performed on tissues obtained during liver transplantation from 60 patients with liver cirrhosis, and on samples of histologically normal liver (control) from 40 patients with benign or colorectal cancer liver metastases removed during surgery, 6-7 cm from the tumor border. Arginase isoenzymes AI (so-called liver-type arginase) and AII (called extrahepatic arginase) were identified by Western blotting and isolated by ion-exchange chromatography. Their expression on mRNA level was studied by RT-PCR. A significant decrease in arginase activity, dependent of the liver clinical stage, was observed in cirrhotic tissue. Arginase AI activity and its mRNA level were significantly decreased in cirrhotic liver, whereas the activity and expression of arginase AII were concurrently raised, as compared to normal liver. Since arginase AI is a key enzyme of the urea cycle, whereas arginase AII most probably takes part in the biosynthesis of ornithine and polyamines, the defective ammonia inactivation and increased collagen biosynthesis observed in cirrhotic liver may be related to the changes in arginase AI and AII levels, respectively.
Natural phenolic acids may increase serum estradiol level in ovariectomized rats.
Authors: Zych Maria , Folwarczna Joanna , Trzeciak Henryk I
Published: March 2019

Natural phenolic acids are commonly present in plants consumed in the diet. Recently we have observed that different natural phenolic acids exert differential effects on the body mass gain in ovariectomized and non-ovariectomized female rats. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of ferulic, caffeic, p-coumaric and chlorogenic acids on serum estradiol and total cholesterol levels in ovariectomized and non-ovariectomized rats. The experiments were carried out on 3-month old female Wistar Cmd:(WI)WU rats, divided into following groups (n=8 in each group): non-ovariectomized control rats and non-ovariectomized rats receiving ferulic, caffeic, p-coumaric or chlorogenic acids, sham-operated control rats, ovariectomized control rats and ovariectomized rats receiving the same phenolic acids. The phenolic acids were administered at a dose of 10 mg/kg p.o. daily for 4 weeks. Serum estradiol and total cholesterol levels on the next day after the last administration of the phenolic acids were examined. The phenolic acids did not affect serum estradiol or total cholesterol levels in non-ovariectomized rats. In ovariectomized rats, caffeic acid and to a lesser extent p-coumaric acid increased serum estradiol level, which effect correlated with a decreased body mass gain. All the phenolic acids decreased serum cholesterol level in ovariectomized rats. Concluding, the anti-obesity activity of some phenolic acids may be, at least partially, connected with estrogenic pathways.
Use of HIV as a gene transfer vector.
Authors: Pluta Krzysztof , Kacprzak Magdalena Marta
Published: March 2019

Despite the extensive research efforts over the past 25 years that have focused on HIV, there is still no cure for AIDS. However, tremendous progress in the understanding of the structure and biology of the HIV virus led to the development of safe and potent HIV-based transgene delivery vectors. These genetic vehicles are referred to as lentiviral vectors. They appear to be better suited for particular applications, such as transgene delivery into stem cells, compared to other viral- and non-viral vectors. This is because Lentivirus-based vectors can efficiently infect nondividing and slowly dividing cells. In the present review article, the current state of understanding of HIV-1 is discussed and the main characteristics that had an impact on vector design are outlined. A historical view on the vector concept is presented to facilitate discussion of recent results in vector engineering in a broader context. Subsequently, a state of the art overview concerning vector construction and vector production is given. This review also touches upon the subject of lentiviral vector safety and related topics that can be helpful in addressing this issue are discussed. Finally, examples of Lentivirus-based gene delivery systems and their applications are presented, with emphasis on animal transgenesis and human gene therapy.
Elements regulating Potato leafroll virus sgRNA1 translation are located within the coding sequences of the coat protein and read-through domain.
Authors: Łoniewska-Lwowska Adrianna , Chełstowska Sylwia , Zagórski-Ostoja Włodzimierz , Pałucha Andrzej
Published: March 2019

Translation of viral proteins from subgenomic RNAs (sgRNAs) is a common strategy among positive-stranded RNA viruses. Unlike host mRNA, sgRNA of Potato leafroll virus (PLRV) does not possess a cap at its 5' end nor a poly(A) tail at the 3' terminus, both of which are known to be crucial for translation of RNA in eukaryotic cells. Here, we demonstrate, that in wheat germ extract (WGE) truncation of the sgRNA1 5' UTR increases translation efficiency, as it has previously been observed in rabbit reticulocyte lysate (RRL), whereas removal of the 3' UTR does not affect translation. We also describe two regulatory elements located within the coding sequence of the coat protein (CP) gene and its read-through domain (RTD) and are responsible for regulation of in vitro translation of the PLRV sgRNA1. The frst element is composed of the purine sequence AAAGGAAA located between the AUG codons of the CP and 17K genes. Deletion of this domain or its substitution by pyrimidines reduced by half the translation of both genes, whereas deletion of the RTD resulted in a 3.6-fold reduction in translation efficiency. This is the first report of translation regulatory elements of plant viruses located within a coding region.
Elevated advanced oxidation protein products levels in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Authors: Zuwała-Jagiełło Jolanta , Pazgan-Simon Monika , Simon Krzysztof , Warwas Maria
Published: March 2019

Serum concentrations of advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) and glycation end products (AGEs) were assessed with respect to functional compromise of liver, as determined by the Child-Pugh and MELD scores. Patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis (Child-Pugh B and C) exhibited significantly higher serum concentrations of AOPPs than both patients with compensated liver cirrhosis (Child-Pugh A) and controls. The levels of plasma AGEs in all liver cirrhotic patients were higher when compared with those with the controls and this difference was statistically significant. Plasma total antioxidant status of the patients was significantly lower than that of controls. Significant positive correlations between AOPPs level and the MELD score and between the oxidative stress index and the MELD score were found in all patients with liver cirrhosis. Altered AOPPs levels in decompensated patients may influence the potency of oxidative stress and the progression of liver disease.
Arachidonic acid-induced apoptosis in rat hepatoma AS-30D cells is mediated by reactive oxygen species.
Authors: Dymkowska Dorota , Wojtczak Lech
Published: March 2019

Arachidonic acid at micromolar concentrations produced a drastic increase of the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in rat hepatoma AS-30D cells cultivated in vitro along with an increase in the incidence of apoptotic cell death. Both processes were prevented by trolox, a water-soluble tocopherol derivative, and tempol, a known antioxidative agent. A synthetic hybrid of lipoic acid and trolox or preincubation with N-acetylcysteine were less effective. Preincubation of the cells with etomoxir, a known highly specific irreversible inhibitor of carnitine-palmitoyltransferase I, partly decreased the ROS formation induced by arachidonic acid but it did not affect the increase in apoptosis. Cumulatively, these results indicate that apoptosis induced in hepatoma cells by arachidonic acid is mediated by ROS. They also suggest that this effect is due to arachidonic acid as such and not to its mitochondrial oxidative metabolites.
Full length genome sequence of Polish isolate of Beet soil-borne virus confirms low level of genetic diversity.
Authors: Borodynko Natasza , Hasiów-Jaroszewska Beata , Rymelska Natalia , Pospieszny Henryk
Published: March 2019

The complete nucleotide sequence of a Polish isolate of Beet soil-borne virus was determined for the first time. The genome organization was identical with those previously established for isolates from Germany and China. A comparison of the Polish isolate with others deposited in GenBank revealed high level of nucleotide identity, about 98-100%, throughout the genome analyzed. The ratio between non-synonymous and synonymous substitutions was rather low suggesting a negative selective pressure. The non-synonymous mutations were particulary frequent in triple gene block.
Influence of megestrol acetate on nutrition and inflammation in dialysis patients - preliminary results.
Authors: Gołebiewska Justyna , Lichodziejewska-Niemierko Monika , Aleksandrowicz Ewa , Majkowicz Mikołaj , Lysiak-Szydłowska Wiesława , Rutkowski Bolesław
Published: March 2019

Malnutrition is a common clinical problem in dialysis patients. So far the management of malnutrition in this population has not been fully successful. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of use of megestrol acetate suspension in malnourished dialysis patients. Twenty-six hypoalbuminemic (albumin < or = 3.8 g/dl) dialysis patients took 160 mg of megestrol acetate daily for a period of two months. Anthropometry (dry weight, body mass index) and biochemical measurements of nutrition (serum albumin, triglycerides, total cholesterol) and inflammation (hsCRP, IL-1beta, IL-6) were performed on a monthly basis. The treatment led to a statistically significant increase (P < 0.05) in anthropometry and albumin concentration, with no statistically significant changes in total cholesterol, triglycerides and indices of inflammation. Side effects included overhydration, diarrhoea and hyperglycaemia. Thus, megestrol acetate may be an effective therapeutic agent in improving the nutritional status of carefully selected dialysis patients, while it might not mitigate inflammation. Because of the prevalent side effects it must be monitored closely.
Giant unilamellar vesicles - a perfect tool to visualize phase separation and lipid rafts in model systems.
Authors: Wesołowska Olga , Michalak Krystyna , Maniewska Jadwiga , Hendrich Andrzej B
Published: March 2019

Model systems such as black lipid membranes or conventional uni- or multilamellar liposomes are commonly used to study membrane properties and structure. However, the construction and dimensions of these models excluded their direct optical microscopic observation. Since the introduction of the simple method of liposome electroformation in alternating electric field giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) have become an important model imitating biological membranes. Due to the average diameter of GUVs reaching up to 100 microm, they can be easily observed under a fluorescent or confocal microscope provided that the appropriate fluorescent probe was incorporated into the lipid phase during vesicle formation. GUVs can be formed from different lipid mixtures and they are stable in a wide range of physical conditions such as pH, pressure or temperature. This mini-review presents information about the methods of GUV production and their usage. Particularly, the use of GUVs in studying lipid phase separation and the appearance and behavior of lipid domains (rafts) in membranes is discussed but also other examples of GUVs use in membrane research are given. The experience of the authors in setting up the GUV-forming equipment and production of GUVs is also presented.
Cloning and expression of a new recombinant thrombolytic and anthithrombotic agent - a staphylokinase variant.
Authors: Kowalski Michał , Brown George , Bieniasz Magdalena , Oszajca Katarzyna , Chabielska Ewa , Pietras Tadeusz , Szemraj Zofia , Makandjou-Ola Eusebio , Bartkowiak Jacek , Szemraj Janusz
Published: March 2019

To develop a more potent antithrombin agent with thrombolytic and antiplatelet properties, a new staphylokinase (SAK) variant was constructed. The kringle 2 domain (K2) of tissue type-plasminogen activator (t-PA) containing a fibrin-specific binding site (i), the RGD sequence (Arg-Gly-Asp) for the prevention of platelet aggregation (ii) and the antithrombotic agent - hirulog (iii) was assembled to the C-terminal part of recombinant staphylokinase (r-SAK). cDNA for the hybrid protein SAK-RGD-K2-Hirul was cloned into Pichia pastoris pPIC9K yeast expression vector. The introduction of K2 t-PA, the RGD sequence and hirulog into the C-terminus of r-SAK did not alter the staphylokinase activity. We observed a higher clot lysis potency of SAK-RGD-K2-Hirul as evidenced by a faster and more profound lysis of (125)I-labeled human fibrin clots. The potency of thrombin inhibition by the hirulog C-terminal part of the recombinant fusion protein was almost identical to that of r-Hir alone. These results suggest that the SAK-RGD-K2-Hirul construct can be a more potent and faster-acting thrombolytic agent with better antithrombin and antiplatelet properties compared to r-SAK and SAK-RGD-K2-Hir.
Purification and characterization of antibacterial proteins from granular hemocytes of Indian mud crab, Scylla serrata.
Authors: Yedery Roshan Dinesh , Reddy Kudumula Venkata Rami
Published: March 2019

Marine invertebrates depend upon antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as a major component of innate immunity, as they are rapidly synthesized and diffuse upon pathogen invasion. In this study, we report the identification and characterization of a 11 kDa antimicrobial protein, which we name SSAP (for Scylla serrata antimicrobial protein), from granular hemocytes of the mangrove crab S. serrata. The protein is highly similar to scygonadin, a male-specific AMP isolated from the ejaculatory duct of S. serrata. SSAP was isolated using various chromatographic techniques, viz. ion-exchange, ultra filtration and RP-HPLC, and demonstrated antibacterial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Full length mRNA encoding SSAP was amplified using a combination of RT-PCR and RACE. The nucleotide sequence revealed a full-length ORF of 381 bp coding for a preprotein of 126 amino acids comprising a signal peptide of 24 amino acids and a mature protein of 102 amino acids with a predicted mass of 11435 Da and pI of 5.70. Unlike scygonadin, SSAP is expressed in several tissues of both male and female crabs, as evidenced by RT-PCR, Northern and Western blot analyses. The study suggests that SSAP might be an isoform or a variant of scygonadin and might play an important role in regulating the immunity of the crab upon microbial infection.
Translational and structural analysis of the shortest legume ENOD40 gene in Lupinus luteus.
Authors: Podkowinski Jan , Zmienko Agnieszka , Florek Blazena , Wojciechowski Pawel , Rybarczyk Agnieszka , Wrzesinski Jan , Ciesiolka Jerzy , Blazewicz Jacek , Kondorosi Adam , Crespi Martin , Legocki Andrzej
Published: March 2019

Two early nodulin 40 (enod40) genes, ENOD40-1, the shortest legume ENOD40 gene, and ENOD40-2, were isolated from Lupinus luteus, a legume with indeterminate nodules. Both genes were expressed at similar levels during symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. ENOD40 phylogeny clustered the L. luteus genes with legumes forming determinate nodules and revealed peptide similarities. The ENOD40-1 small ORF A fused to a reporter gene was efficiently expressed in plant cells, indicating that the start codon is recognized for translation. The ENOD40-1 RNA structure predicted based on Pb(II)-induced cleavage and modeling revealed four structurally conserved domains, an absence of domain 4 characteristic for legumes of indeterminate nodules, and interactions between the conserved region I and a region located upstream of domain 6. Domain 2 contains Mg(II) ion binding sites essential for organizing RNA secondary structure. The differences between L. luteus and Glycine max ENOD40 RNA models suggest the possibility of a switch between two structural states of ENOD40 transcript.
Phenotype modifiers of spinal muscular atrophy: the number of SMN2 gene copies, deletion in the NAIP gene and probably gender influence the course of the disease.
Authors: Jedrzejowska Maria , Milewski Michał , Zimowski Janusz , Borkowska Janina , Kostera-Pruszczyk Anna , Sielska Danuta , Jurek Marta , Hausmanowa-Petrusewicz Irena
Published: March 2019

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive neuromuscular disorder caused by mutations of the SMN1 gene. It is characterized by significant phenotype variability. In this study, we analyzed possible phenotype modifiers of the disease - the size of the deletion in the SMA region, the number of SMN2 gene copies, as well as the effect of gender. Among the factors analyzed, two seem to influence the SMA phenotype: the number of SMN2 gene copies and a deletion in the NAIP gene. A higher number of SMN2 copies makes the clinical symptoms more benign, and the NAIP gene deletion is associated with a more severe phenotype. The influence of gender remains unclear. In a group of 1039 patients, 55% of whom were male, the greatest disproportion was in the SMA1 (F/M = 0.78) and SMA3b (F/M = 0.45) forms. In SMA1 a deletion in the NAIP gene was seen twice as frequently in girls compared to boys. In three patients, we observed genotypes atypical for the chronic forms of SMA: two patients with SMA3a and 3b had a deletion of the NAIP gene, and a third patient with SMA2 had one copy of the SMN2 gene.
Identification and tissue distribution of a novel rat glucocorticoid receptor splice variant.
Authors: Ju Huiming , Wang Xia , Liu Zongping , Liu Ping , Zhao Yan , Xiong Renping , Zhou Yuanguo , Chen Xingyun
Published: March 2019

Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a steroid hormone receptor that has been shown to play important roles in diverse cellular and physiological processes. More and more evidence has revealed that the effects of glucocorticoids are mediated by the glucocorticoid receptor through genomic or nongenomic mechanisms. A growing number of glucocorticoid receptor splice variants have been identified in human tissues, but few are known in rat tissues. In this work, a novel rGR cDNA, called rGRbeta, was cloned from Sprague Dawlay (SD) rat liver. Sequence analysis revealed that the rGRbeta mRNA was 39 base pairs (bp) shorter than the rGR mRNA reported earlier. The deleted segment is located in exon 1 and encodes 13 repeated glutamine residues. Both the rGR and rGRbeta mRNAs were quantitated by Northern blot hybridization using non-homologous glucocorticoid cDNA probes. Results showed that the rGR and rGRbeta mRNAs were most abundant in the lung, the least abundant in the heart, and there were more rGR and rGRbeta mRNAs in the kidney than in the liver. The identification of rGRbeta may contribute to the understanding of the genomic or nongenomic effects of glucocorticoids.
Nucleoside diphosphate kinase isoforms regulated by phytochrome A isolated from oat coleoptiles.
Authors: Hetmann Anna , Kowalczyk Stanisław
Published: March 2019

Nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NDPK) (EC 2.7.4.6), the enzyme transferring the phosphate residue from ATP to nucleoside diphosphates, is localized mainly in the cytoplasm and mitochondria and in smaller amounts in cell nuclei and the microsomal fraction. Exposure of etiolated oat seedlings to red light causes an increase of the enzyme activity by about 42% in nuclear fraction, 7% in etioplastic and 14% in postetioplastic fraction. Endogenous phytochrome A, as visualized by an immunochemical method, translocates from the cytoplasm into the nucleus upon red, far-red or white light activation. Nuclei purified from oat seedlings contain two, and the postnuclear fraction four easily separated forms of NDPK. One of the nuclear isoforms (I(n)) and one isoform isolated from the postnuclear fraction (II(pn)) are activated by red light in the presence of phytochrome A purified from etiolated oat coleoptiles. Both phytochrome A-activated NDPKs purified to electrophoretic homogeneity have the same molecular mass (17-18 kDa) determined by SDS/PAGE. Both enzymes in the native form have similar molecular masses (71 and 63 kDa).
Localization of the attachment site of oligoglucans to Mesorhizobium loti HAMBI 1148 murein.
Authors: Karaś Magdalena , Russa Ryszard
Published: March 2019

The location and nature of the linkage between peptidoglycan and oligoglucans in the cell wall of Mesorhizobium loti HAMBI 1148 have been defined by the analysis of nitrous acid deamination of peptidoglycan glucosaminyl residues. The MurNH(2)-Glc(n) fraction was obtained after converting deaminoacylated and N-deacetylated muramyl residues in the cell wall preparation to lactam forms which were stable during subsequent deamination, followed by reduction and opening of the lactams. GC/MS analysis of this material, subjected to partial hydrolysis and reduction or to methanolysis followed by peracetylation, confirmed the presence of glucosyl residues glycosidically attached to muramic acid. The MALDI-TOF spectroscopic analysis of the deaminated material also revealed the presence of [M-H](-) or [M+Na-2H](-) ions representing fragments containing muramic acid with one to three linked glucose residues. The analysis of fully methylated neutral oligosaccharides released from the peptidoglycan with lysozyme followed by borohydride reduction showed the presence of di- and trisaccharides lacking the reducing end.
Combination of combretastatin A4 phosphate and doxorubicin-containing liposomes affects growth of B16-F10 tumors.
Authors: Mitrus Iwona , Sochanik Aleksander , Cichoń Tomasz , Szala Stanisław
Published: March 2019

The study aimed to check the effectiveness of anticancer therapy combining a vascular-disruptive drug (combretastatin phosphate, CA4P) and a liposomal formulation of a chemotherapeutic (doxorubicin). CA4P was synthesized in our laboratory according to a previously described procedure. The antivascular drug and long-circulating doxorubicin-loaded liposomes were used to treat B16-F10 murine melanoma experimental tumors. Seventy-four hours after drug administration, a decrease in the number of tumor blood vessels was apparent and necrotic areas within tumors were visible. Combination therapy consisting of alternate administrations of CA4P and liposomal doxorubicin yielded greater inhibition of tumor growth than monotherapies alone. The best therapeutic results were obtained with the antivascular drug administered intratumorally every second day at 50 mg/kg body mass. In the case of combined therapy, the best results were obtained when the vascular-disruptive agent (CA4P) and the antineoplastic agent (liposomal doxorubicin) were administered in alternation.
Detection of selective cationic amphipatic antibacterial peptides by Hidden Markov models.
Authors: Polanco Carlos , Samaniego Jose L
Published: March 2019

Antibacterial peptides are researched mainly for the potential benefit they have in a variety of socially relevant diseases, used by the host to protect itself from different types of pathogenic bacteria. We used the mathematical-computational method known as Hidden Markov models (HMMs) in targeting a subset of antibacterial peptides named Selective Cationic Amphipatic Antibacterial Peptides (SCAAPs). The main difference in the implementation of HMMs was focused on the detection of SCAAP using principally five physical-chemical properties for each candidate SCAAPs, instead of using the statistical information about the amino acids which form a peptide. By this method a cluster of antibacterial peptides was detected and as a result the following were found: 9 SCAAPs, 6 synthetic antibacterial peptides that belong to a subregion of Cecropin A and Magainin 2, and 19 peptides from the Cecropin A family. A scoring function was developed using HMMs as its core, uniquely employing information accessible from the databases.
Identification of a novel protein encoded by third conserved gene within RAG locus.
Authors: Kasztura Monika , Miazek Arkadiusz , Cebrat Małgorzata , Kisielow Paweł
Published: March 2019

Recently, a third evolutionarily conserved gene, NWC, was discovered within the recombination activating gene (RAG) locus, known to contain the RAG1 and RAG2 genes. Here, we identify and characterize the murine endogenous NWC protein which has no homology to any known protein and is ubiquitously expressed. In the cell, the NWC protein which has been suggested to function as a transcriptional repressor, is found in the cytoplasm as well as in the nucleus.
Praktyczny wymiar opiekuńczej roli państwa – domy dziennego pobytu
Authors: Michalak Dorota
Published: March 2019

Jedną z form pomocy państwa dla osób starszych są Domy Pomocy Społecznej, które świadczą usługi bytowe, opiekuńcze, wspomagające i edukacyjne. Te placówki, które zapewniają tylko opiekę dzienną nazywają się Domami Dziennego Pobytu (DDP). Zadaniem niniejszego artykułu jest określenie zapotrzebowania i stopnia dostępności Domów Dziennego Pobytu, stopnia zaspokajania potrzeb i oczekiwań osób do nich uczęszczających oraz przedstawienie zasad ich finansowania. W tym celu przeprowadzono indywidualny wywiad pogłębiony z pracownikiem Miejskiego Ośrodka Pomocy Społecznej w Łodzi zatrudnionym na stanowisku Starszego Inspektora (Dział Planowania) oraz ankietę wśród 96 pensjonariuszy Domów Dziennego Pobytu w Łodzi. Jak wynika z przeprowadzonego badania ankietowego chętne osoby nie muszą długo czekać na możliwość korzystania z Domów Dziennego Pobytu w Łodzi. Badanie sprawdza funkcjonalność opisanej instytucji, która jest zgodna z ustawą o pomocy społecznej. Podkreśla ono również znaczenie instytucji w pomocy osobom starszym w życiu codziennym, zapobieganiu poczucia bezużyteczności i wykluczenia społecznego.
INTERNALIZATION MANAGEMENT OF RELIGION VALUES THROUGH ISLAMIC EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF CHARACTERS OF STUDENTS OF SMAN 1 MALANG
Authors: Thoifah I’anatut
Published: March 2019

This study aims to investigate the planning, implementation, and evaluation of religious value internalization through an Extracurricular program of Islamic religious division and its relevance to a character building at SMAN 1 Malang. The data collections of this study were observation, interview, and documentation. In analyzing the data, the researcher used qualitative descriptive analysis which means that she described and interpreted the data to figure out the phenomenon in a real condition. The result of this study showed that the member of students in Islamic religious division planned and implemented the programs and activities based on the religious value through materials, methods, and times they arranged. Besides, the internalization management of religious value through this extracurricular program has relevance to a character building. This extracurricular program also facilitates the students to implement their knowledge into a good character based on religious value. In other words, the students can apply their experience they have got in the classroom into the activities in the extracurricular program, to have a good character, in which it also becomes the purpose and the relevance of internalization management of religious value through an extracurricular program and character building.

Keywords: Management of Internalization of Religious Values; Extracurricular Section of Islamic Spirituality; Character Education

 
Climate Finance and Its Role towards the Transition to Low-Carbon, Climate-Resilient Development in Ethiopia
Authors: Dendir Zelalem
Published: March 2019

Achieving and sustaining stability for economic growth remain the greatest and most immediate development challenge for Ethiopia. For natural resource-based economies especially maintaining stability and growth depends fundamentally upon climate change adaptation and mitigation. The close links between climate and Ethiopia’s economy are reflected by the strong relationship between GDP growth rate and rainfall variability. A study by the World Bank projects that unless steps to build resilience are effective, climate change will reduce Ethiopia’s GDP growth by between 0.5 and 2.5% each year. Along with the challenges posed by climate change, a number of development opportunities are emerging in response to climate change which includes access to international climate finance. The international response to climate change in the form of external development finance plays a key role to support developing countries in their transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient and sustainable development pathway. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the flow and the overall contribution of climate finance to sustainable development in Ethiopia. Specifically, focused on outlining how climate finance is currently reconciled in the existing Ethiopian climate change governance and its contribution to sustainable development. In order to achieve these objectives, data were collected from different sources. The Rio Marker methodology applied to review climate financial flow over the 5 year period. The result reveals that, climate change is central to development agendas despite its recent emergence in the mainstream, with various initiatives under way to combat or reduce its impacts in Ethiopia. In addition, the amount of climate finance from the developed countries to Ethiopia shows some fluctuation for the past five years. In general, the overall flow of climate finance mostly targeted climate adaptation actions which spur and enable the transition towards climate-resilient growth and sustainable development.
Stress Energy Tensor Study in Fluid Mechanics
Authors: Baudrimont Roman
Published: March 2019

This paper is to summarize the involvement of the stress energy tensor in the study of fluid mechanics. In the first part we will see the implication that carries the stress energy tensor in the framework of general relativity. In the second part, we will study the stress energy tensor under the mechanics of perfect fluids, allowing us to lead third party in the case of Newtonian fluids, and in the last part we will see that it is possible to define space-time as a no-Newtonian fluids.
An Overview: Internet of Things, 5G Communication System and Cloud Computing
Authors: Nuruddeen Abdulhamid Usman
Published: March 2019

This article will provide an overview on internet of things (IoT), 5G communication System and Distributed Clouds. The basic concepts and benefits will be briefly presented, along with current standardization activities. In a nutshell, but the research will focus on relating internet of things, 5G and Distributed Cloud Computing.
An Efficient Iterative Method for Looped Pipe Network Hydraulics
Authors: Brkić Dejan , Praks Pavel
Published: March 2019

Original and improved version of the Hardy Cross iterative method with related modifications are today widely used for calculation of fluid flow through conduits in loops-like distribution networks of pipes with known node fluid consumptions. Fluid in these networks is usually natural gas for distribution in the municipalities, water in waterworks or hot water in district heating system, air in the case of ventilation systems in buildings or mines, etc. Since, the resistances in these networks depend of flow, problem is not linear like in electrical circuits, and iterative procedure must be used. In both version of the Hardy Cross method, in original and in the improved one, initial results of calculation in iteration procedure is not flow, but rather the correction of flow. Unfortunately, these corrections should be added to or subtracted from a flow calculated in previous iteration according to complicate algebraic rules. After the here presented node-loop method, final results in each of the iterations is flow directly rather than flow correction. In that way complex algebraic scheme for sign of flow correction is avoided, while the final results still remain unchanged. Numbers of required iterations for the same results are comparable with the improved Hardy Cross method.