bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Χρήση μεθόδου Power Doppler στη μελέτη προκαρκινικών και καρκινικών αλλοιώσεων του τραχήλου της μήτρας
Authors: Μπελίτσος Παναγιώτης
Published: July 2014

Η τρισδιάστατη Power Doppler υπερηχογραφία είναι μια μέθοδος που χρησιμοποιείται για τη μελέτη τη αγγείωσης και της αιματικής ροής εντός συμπαγών οργάνων. Η αγγείωση εκφράζεται από το δείκτη αγγείωσης (VI) και η αιματική ροή από το δείκτη ροής (FI), ενώ υπάρχει και δείκτης αγγείωσης-ροής (VFI) που προκύπτει από του άλλους δύο δείκτες. Στη διεθνή βιβλιογραφία υπάρχουν λίγες μελέτες που ασχολούνται με την εφαρμογή της 3D Power Doppler υπερηχογραφίας στη μελέτη του καρκίνου της μήτρας. Με την παρούσα μελέτη εξετάζουμε τα χαρακτηριστικά της αγγείωσης και της αιματική ροής σε 71 ασθενείς με διηθητικό καρκίνο του τραχήλου και σε 61 γυναίκες με προκαρκινικές αλλοιώσεις και τις συγκρίνουμε με 33 υγιείς γυναίκες. Μελετήθηκαν και οι τρεις αγγειακοί δείκτες σε τρεις διαφορετικές τιμές του PRF (0.3 MHz, 0.6MHz και 0.9 MHz) και προσδιορίστηκαν οι συσχετίσεις τους με τα κλινικο παθολογοανατομικά χαρακτηριστικά της νόσου. Επίσης προσδιορίστηκε η διακριτική ικανότητα αυτών για την κάθε ομάδα γυναικών της μελέτης. Βρήκαμε ότι και οι τρεις αγγειακοί δείκτες διαφέρουν σημαντικά μεταξύ των τριών ομάδων γυναικών και είναι σημαντικά υψηλότεροι στις γυναίκες με διηθητικό καρκίνο του τραχήλου. Δεν διαφέρουν σημαντικά σε σχέση με το στάδιο του όγκου (χειρουργήσιμοι όγκοι σε σχέση με μη χειρουργήσιμους), το βαθμό διαφοροποίησης του όγκου, τη διήθηση του λεμφαγγειακού χώρου και τη διήθηση των πυελικών λεμφαδένων. Προσδιορίστηκε και η επαναληψιμότητα των μετρήσεων των τιμών των αγγειακών δεικτών και του όγκου του τραχήλου εντός του ίδιου παρατηρητή και βρέθηκε πολύ υψηλή.Επίσης η αγγείωση των καρκινικών όγκων ταξινομήθηκε σε 4 πρότυπα: περιοχική (Regional), διάχυτη (Diffuse), ενός κύριου αγγείου (Single Vessel) και διάσπαρτη (Scattered). Όγκοι με διάχυτο πρότυπο αγγείωσης έχουν σημαντικά υψηλότερο VI, FI και VFI. Βρέθηκε θετική συσχέτιση στατιστικά σημαντική του προτύπου με τη διήθηση του λεμφαγγειακού χώρου και τον όγκο του τραχήλου. Τα διάφορα στάδια της νόσου, (χειρουργήσιμος σε σχέση με μη χειρουργήσιμος καρκίνος), βαθμός κακοήθειας του όγκου ή διήθηση των πυελικών λεμφαδένων δεν σχετιζόταν περισσότερο με κάποιο πρότυπο αγγείωσης. Συμπερασματικά φαίνεται ότι η τρισδιάστατη Power Doppler υπερηχογραφία είναι μία πολλά υποσχόμενη νέα μέθοδος για τη μελέτη, διάγνωση και παρακολούθηση ασθενών με προκαρκινικές αλλοιώσεις και διηθητικό καρκίνο της μήτρας.
Συσχέτιση του δείκτη bode με τη συστηματική και τοπική φλεγμονή των αεραγωγών σε ασθενείς με χρόνια αποφρακτική πνευμονοπάθεια
Authors: Γάκη Ελένη
Published: July 2014

H ΧΑΠ είναι μια πολυπαραγοντική νόσος με τη συστηματική φλεγμονή να ευθύνεται για τις συστηματικές εκδηλώσεις της νόσου συμπεριλαμβανομένων της μυϊκής αδυναμίας και της καχεξίας. Η ελεύθερη λίπους μάζα (FFM) αντανακλά καλύτερα την σκελετική μυϊκή μάζα και έχει φανεί ότι συσχετίζεται τόσο με τη δύσπνοια όσο με την ικανότητα για άσκηση.Υποθέσαμε ότι ο δείκτης BODE θα αντανακλά καλύτερα την πολυπαραγοντική φύση της νόσου, και ότι θα συσχετίζεται καλύτερα με την συστηματική φλεγμονή και ιδιαίτερα με τους βιολογικούς δείκτες που εκφράζουν τον λιπώδη ιστό, και όχι με την υποκείμενη τοπική φλεγμονή των αεραγωγών σε ασθενείς με Χρόνια Αποφρακτική Πνευμονοπάθεια. Μια περαιτέρω υπόθεση περιελάμβανε τη πιθανή συσχέτιση της FFMΙ με τους βιολογικούς δείκτες που εκφράζουν τη συστηματική φλεγμονή, υποθέτοντας ότι η FFMΙ αντανακλά καλύτερα τη συστηματική παρά την τοπική φλεγμονή των αεραγωγών στους ασθενείς με Χρόνια Αποφρακτική Πνευμονοπάθεια.Μελετήθηκαν 222 σταθεροί ασθενείς με ΧΑΠ και 132 καπνιστές η πρώην καπνιστές με φυσιολογική αναπνευστική λειτουργία, όχι απαραίτητα υγιείς ως ομάδα ελέγχου. Υπολογίστηκε ο δείκτης BODE και ο FFMI. Η συστηματική φλεγμονή αξιολογήθηκε με τις τιμές στον ορό του TNF-α, της IL–6, της CRP, της λεπτίνης και της αδιπονεκτίνης. Ενώ η τοπική φλεγμονή αξιολογήθηκε με τις τιμές του 8-ισοπροστανίου, της IL–6 καθώς και του pH στο συμπύκνωμα εκπνεόμενου αέρα.Στους ασθενείς με ΧΑΠ ο FFMI, η ικανότητα για άσκηση καθώς και οι τιμές του λειτουργικού ελέγχου, ήταν μειωμένα, ενώ ο δείκτης BODE καθώς και οι δείκτες συστηματικής φλεγμονής TNF-α, IL-6, CRP καθώς και η λεπτίνη, το pH και το 8-211ισοπροστάνιο στο συμπύκνωμα του εμπνεόμενου αέρα παρουσίασαν υψηλότερες τιμές σε σύγκριση με την ομάδα ελέγχου.Ο δείκτης BODE παρουσίασε θετική συσχέτιση με τη λεπτίνη. Ενώ ο FFMI αρνητική συσχέτιση τόσο με την λεπτίνη και με τον TNF-α.Μελετώντας ξεχωριστά τις μεταβλητές του δείκτη BODE αναδείχτηκε μια θετική και αντίστοιχα μια αρνητική συσχέτιση μεταξύ της κλίμακα δύσπνοιας MRC και του 6MWD με τη λεπτίνη στους ασθενείς με ΧΑΠ. Ενώ φάνηκε ότι η κλίμακα δύσπνοιας MRC ήταν ο πιο σημαντικός προγνωστικός δείκτη για τη λεπτίνη.Καταλήξαμε στο συμπέρασμα ότι τόσο ο δείκτης BODE όσο και ο FFMI συσχετίζονται με τα επίπεδα της λεπτίνης στον ορό στους ασθενείς με ΧΑΠ, προσδίδοντας έτσι στην λεπτίνη ένα ρόλο στην συστηματική συνιστώσα της νόσου. Επιπλέον η συσχέτιση της FFMI με τον TNF-α υποδηλώνει το ρόλο της συστηματικής φλεγμονής στην απώλεια της μυϊκής μάζας.
Η διάσπαση της αρχής της σχετικότητας των ενοχών και η σύμβαση υπέρ τρίτου
Authors: Μάνθος Απόστολος
Published: July 2014

Στόχος της διατριβής είναι να αναδείξει το ζήτημα της διάσπασης της αρχής της σχετικότητας των ενοχών μέσω του θεσμού της σύμβασης υπέρ τρίτου, συγκρίνοντας τα νομικά καθεστώτα της Αγγλίας και της Ελλάδος. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό μελετάται από ιστορική σκοπιά η εξέλιξη της αρχής της privity στο αγγλικό δίκαιο και καταγράφονται τα επιχειρήματα και οι απόψεις τόσο των επικριτών όσο και των υποστηρικτών της σύμβασης υπέρ τρίτου ως μέσου διάσπασης της αρχής της σχετικότητας των συμβάσεων. Η σύγκριση επικεντρώνεται στην αντιπαραβολή των διατάξεων του ΑΚ (410-415) με τις αντίστοιχες ρυθμίσεις της Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999, δίδοντας έμφαση στη σταχυολόγηση απόψεων της νομικής επιστήμης, στο σχολιασμό της νομολογίας και στην ερμηνεία των σχετικών νομοθετικών διατάξεων σε Ελλάδα και Αγγλία. Περαιτέρω, από την ιστορική και συγκριτική έρευνα προέκυψαν τα ακόλουθα συμπεράσματα: Λόγω της επίδρασης των αρχών της privity και της consideration, η νομική τάση στην Αγγλία κατευθύνθηκε στη διαμόρφωση του νομολογιακού κανόνα «third party rule», σύμφωνα με τον οποίο τρίτα πρόσωπα δε δύνανται να αποκτήσουν δικαιώματα από μία σύμβαση, στην κατάρτιση της οποίας δε μετείχαν. Εντούτοις, αναπτύχθηκαν στη διαδρομή του χρόνου νομικές κατασκευές δικαιοπρακτικής και εξωδικαιοπρακτικής φύσεως (π.χ. αδικοπραξία, trust), προκειμένου να παρακαμφθεί ο αυστηρός κανόνας της privity. Τελικά, η γνήσια σύμβαση υπέρ τρίτου εισήχθη στο αγγλικό δίκαιο με τη θέσπιση της Contracts Act 1999. Κοινό χαρακτηριστικό γνώρισμα του αγγλικού και του ελληνικού δικαίου είναι η αναγνώριση της συμβατικής ελευθερίας των μερών ως λόγου που δικαιολογεί την απονομή δικαιωμάτων σε τρίτους. Εντούτοις, ενώ στο ελληνικό δίκαιο ισχύει τεκμήριο υπέρ της μη γνήσιας σύμβασης υπέρ τρίτου, η Contracts Act 1999 καθιερώνει τεκμήριο υπέρ της γνησιότητας της σύμβασης υπέρ τρίτου, λύση που για δικαιοπολιτικούς λόγους υιοθετείται και από τη διατριβή. Μία πρόσθετη σημαντική διαφορά αφορά στα κριτήρια «αποκρυστάλλωσης» του δικαιώματος του τρίτου, καθόσον ο ΑΚ θεσπίζει ως αποκλειστικό κριτήριο τη δήλωση αποδοχής του τρίτου, ενώ ο αγγλικός νόμος θέτει ως εναλλακτικό τρόπο αποκρυστάλλωσης τη γνώση ή υπαίτια άγνοια του υποσχόμενου ότι ο τρίτος στηρίχθηκε εμπράκτως στον κρίσιμο όρο της σύμβασης. Εν κατακλείδι, ανεξάρτητα από τις όποιες διαφορές, το αγγλικό δίκαιο με τη θέσπιση της Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 προσέγγισε κατά πολύ το ελληνικό δίκαιο όσον αφορά στο ζήτημα της γνήσιας σύμβασης υπέρ τρίτου.
Generalized Model of Atmospheric Aerosol for Optimal Processing of Remote In-process Control Colorimeter Signals
Authors: Ибрагимов  , Ibragimov E. , Алиева  , Alieva G. , Агаев  , Agaev F. , Абдулов  , Abdulov R.
Published: July 2014

The paper briefly surveys regime functions of colorimetric systems and their realization featured by necessity to calculate the correlation between color channels’ signals. It suggests a generalized model of optical depth of atmospheric aerosol,
which could be used to form the target functional for optimization of correlation calculator of color signals. The optimum regime of carrying out correlation calculations based upon the atmospheric factors is synthesizedas a result of optimization of the considered model of colorimeter.
Refinement of Measurement Data of Thermocatalytic Sensor Exposed to Various Flammable Gases and Non-Binary Mixtures
Authors: Карелин  , Karelin A.
Published: July 2014

The article considers a method of flammable gases concentration measurement. Experimental unit of thermocatalytic sensor and microcontrollerwith 12-bit ADChas been constructed. Output signal(mV)dependency on different concentrations

of flammable gases has been revealed. It is revealed that catalytic sensor sensitivity changes with temperature, and sensitivity change is unequal for different combustible gases. Thus, there is a possibility to bring results of measuring to % LEL by adding correcting coefficient Kp that characterizes reduction rate of sensing element sensitivity under temperature increase. Application of the method allowed to reduce measuring inaccuracy from 88% to 10% for hydrogen, and from 51% to 19% for hexane. The paper is related to flammable gases metrology.
Diagnosis and management of acne vulgaris
Authors: Lavers Isabel
Published: July 2014

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disorder of the pilosebaceus unit. Although most common among teenagers, acne can also occur in younger patients and can persist into, or develop in, adulthood. Acne presents with a spectrum of noninflammatory and inflammatory lesions commonly occurring on the face, chest and back. The major goals of acne therapy are treatment of existing acne lesions, prevention of new lesions, limiting duration of the disorder and preventing permanent scarring. This article will look at the pathogenesis, clinical features and diagnosis of acne, followed by a discussion of available treatments.
Sources of Variation in the Net Value of Sugar Maple Trees: Implications for Tree Selection and Operations Management
Authors: Cockwell Malcolm , Caspersen John
Published: July 2014

The net value of hardwood trees (dollars per tree) is thought to increase with stem size for three reasons. First, large trees yield a greater volume (cubic meters) of logs, which tend to be larger than logs from small trees; second, large logs are more valuable (dollars per cubic meter) than small logs; and, third, large logs cost less (dollars per cubic meter) to process than small logs. Yet few studies have assessed both the cost of processing hardwood trees and the value of their products. In this article, we examine how the net value of sugar maple trees (Acer saccharum) varies with tree size and the presence of defects, such as fungi and seams. We quantify the gross value of firewood, lumber, and residues as well as the costs of harvesting and sawmilling. For each tree, we also calculate its net value to an integrated forestry company by subtracting costs from gross values. Our results confirm that large trees are more profitable than small trees but challenge current assumptions as to why. As expected, the volume and value of products are reduced by defects, while costs (dollars per cubic meter) are lower for larger trees. However, we found that gross value (dollars per cubic meter) does not vary with tree size, indicating that large trees yield more but not necessarily better products. The results of this study provide insight into how loggers can improve value recovery while limiting processing costs. These results also challenge the rationale behind silvicultural prescriptions that retain large trees based on the assumption that they produce greater volumes of higher-quality wood.
Las Normas Contables Profesionales y los Costos
Authors: Demonte Norberto G.
Published: July 2014

El trabajo relaciona las normas contables profesionales y la doctrina más avanzada de costo con el objetivo de exponer adecuadamente la realidad económica, tanto en los estados contables como en la información de gestión. A partir de una rigurosa clasificación e identificación de los costos se propone aplicar el sistema de costeo variable en el estado de resultados conjuntamente con la valuación al “precio de venta en bloque” de los bienes de cambio en el estado de situación patrimonial. Se analizan críticamente las normas vigentes en los últimos años y se brinda un ejemplo numérico donde puede apreciarse el resultado del período segregado por función.
La Registración de los Recursos Tributarios del Sector Público en la Etapa del Devengado
Authors: Hauque Sergio M.
Published: July 2014

El Trabajo se inicia reseñando informaciones no sistemáticas respecto de la experiencia en Argentina y América Latina que permiten inferir que, más allá de algunas escasas excepciones parciales, la buscda aplicación del llamado "método de la acumulación" (NIC SP 1) no es efectiva para el caso de los recursos públicos.Luego de revisar en detalle el contenido del concepto "devengado" el trabajo se interna en las posibilidades de su aplicación a los recursos tributarios del Sector público, especialmetne para el más complejo caso de los tributos de autodeterminación por parte del contribuyente.Más allá de que el cobro efectivo de algún recurso pudiera resultar el "hecho generador" en casos excepcionales, se concluye que su utilización generalizada para los recursos tributarios del Sector público no permite el logro de los requisitos mínimos necesarios de la información contable, especialmente, respecto de su Pertinencia, Integridad y Comparaiblidad.
Organización y regulación del servicio de agua en América Latina. Los casos de Brasil, Uruguay, Perú, Colombia, Chile y Argentina
Authors: Regoli Roa Silvia
Published: July 2014

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo analizar cuál ha sido la participación del sector privado en el sector de agua en los países latinoamericanos. Se ha procedido a la descripción de los elementos más importantes de la organización y de la regulación de seis casos de estudio: los servicios de agua potable y saneamiento en Brasil, Uruguay, Perú, Colombia, Chile y Argentina. Este estudio de casos forma parte de un proyecto de investigación sobre la regulación del servicio de agua potable y saneamiento en países europeos, latinoamericanos y las lecciones para Argentina. La conclusión principal de este trabajo es que los casos de Brasil, Uruguay y Perú revelan la enorme resistencia de la población de algunos países latinoamericanos a la privatización de las empresas del sector de agua potable. En Argentina, donde la penetración del sector privado fue similar a la del caso chileno, varias provincias han reestatizado el servicio. En Colombia, a pesar de algunas privatizaciones, la mayor parte de los servicios está en manos del sector público. De los casos analizados, sólo Chile se puede citar como un caso exitoso de participación privada.
Marketing Territorial Aplicado al Mercado de Consumo en la Ciudad de Santa Fe (Argentina). Un Caso de Localización de un Empredimiento Gastronómico
Authors: Kosiak de Gesualdo Graciela Mabel , Modesto María Florencia
Published: July 2014

A nivel de las planificaciones económicas, sociales, gubernamentales y empresariales, el conocimiento demográfico de la población, su estructura y su evolución, como así también los datos vinculados a la estructura econó- mica e institucional son de vital importancia. En el mundo en general, sobre todo en los países desarrollados, la innovación en el uso de la información llega de la mano de la tecnología de los Sistemas de Información Geográfica, conocidos como SIG o GIS. Esta nueva tecnología permite la representación geográfica de datos en función de coordenadas cartográficas y su utilización resulta fundamental para la toma de decisiones en las organizaciones, ya que estudios realizados han demostrado que aproximadamente el 90% de la información de las empresas tiene algún componente geográfico (Grimshaw, 1994:69). El Marketing Territorial o Geomarketing incluye una forma de segmentación de los mercados que utiliza criterios geográficos unidos a criterios demográficos (segmentación geodemográfica) para conocer con precisión pautas de comportamiento de los habitantes de microsegmentos geográ- ficos, localizar mercados potenciales, etc., permitiendo un análisis más sofisticado y eficiente de la información. Los fundamentos en los que se basa el Marketing Territorial no son nuevos, pero la aparición de tecnología de información aplicada, capaz de manipular datos georreferenciados, ha permitido ampliar y diversificar las aplicaciones de los SIG en el proceso de toma de decisiones y la planificación comercial.
En Torno de la Concepción de Vivienda Pública en la Ciudad de Santa Fe
Authors: Sosa Sálico María de los Milagros
Published: July 2014

El presente artículo de divulgación muestra parte de los avances obtenidos en el marco del primer premio obtenido en el año 2007, en el I Concurso de Proyectos de Investigaciones Monográficas realizado entre la Fundación La Capital y Universidad Nacional del Litoral, denominado “La ciudad de Santa Fe en perspectiva: estrategias de desarrollo social y económico” en el Eje temático: Rastreo del estado de situación de las políticas públicas sociales y cuyo título fue: “Política Pública de vivienda en Santa Fe. Análisis de un caso”.
Extensão universitária e cidadania: desconstruindo para construir
Authors: De Deus Sandra
Published: July 2014

A formação universitária está calcada no ensino, na pesquisa e na extensão. Os princípios da indissociabilidade ensino– pesquisa–extensão e os princípios da autonomia universitária estão estabelecidos na Constituição Brasileira de 1988. Portanto, a situação legal está dada. O tripé acadêmico é responsável pela formação de profissionais em todas as áreas do conhecimento que, em situações das mais variadas, ora por força de uma carga horária elevada dentro da sala de aula, ora por comodismo ou por falta de opção, acabam por não conhecer a realidade e tampouco aceitar um olhar divergente. O conceito de Extensão, definido pelo Fórum Nacional de Pró–reitores das Instituições Públicas de Educação Superior Brasileiras (FORPROEX), em 1987, já defendia, com base no princípio da indissociabilidade, a necessidade de “um currículo dinâmico, flexível e transformador”. O contato com as diversas realidades, com as diferenças, com outras perspectivas e mesmo com a crítica são aspectos essenciais da formação profissional.
Extensión y políticas públicas: la universidad en el centro del debate
Authors: Menéndez Gustavo
Published: July 2014

Uno de los temas centrales de la agenda de extensión está vinculado a las políticas públicas, e identifica en las mismas espacios de encuentros y búsqueda de acuerdos entre organismos e instituciones del Estado, organizaciones de la sociedad civil y otros actores de la vida pública, de tal manera de contribuir significativamente en el diseño, desarrollo, calidad y evaluación de dichas políticas. Esta aproximación a las políticas públicas tiene como punto de partida la definición del rol que las universidades nacionales adoptan en relación con el Estado en sus diferentes jurisdicciones y la sociedad de la cual forman parte.
Analysis of keywords used in environmental education research
Authors: Güven Esra , Hamalosmanoğlu Mustafa , Kaplan Zehra , Varinlioğlu Serdar
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study is to examine keywords in articles and dissertations published in the field of environmental education. The study was carried out on 48 articles and 73 dissertations published between 2007-2011 in the field of environmental education. The data of this study were collected from document analysis. These collected data were analyzed from content analysis. In this study, it was seen that 192 distinct keywords were used in examined articles and dissertations, "environmental education" (f=76), "environment" (f=20), "attitude toward the environment" (f=19) and "environmental awareness" (f=13) were the most used keywords. In addition to, it was determined that the frequencies of nearly all keywords were low.
Structure of large dsDNA viruses
Authors: Klose Thomas , Rossmann Michael G.
Published: July 2014

Nucleocytoplasmic large dsDNA viruses (NCLDVs) encompass an ever-increasing group of large eukaryotic viruses, infecting a wide variety of organisms. The set of core genes shared by all these viruses includes a major capsid protein with a double jelly-roll fold forming an icosahedral capsid, which surrounds a double layer membrane that contains the viral genome. Furthermore, some of these viruses, such as the members of the Mimiviridae and Phycodnaviridae have a unique vertex that is used during infection to transport DNA into the host.
Twin-arginine translocation-arresting protein regions contact TatA and TatB
Authors: Taubert Johannes , Brüser Thomas
Published: July 2014

Tat systems translocate folded proteins across biological membranes of prokaryotes and plant plastids. TatBC complexes recognize N-terminal Tat signal peptides that contain a sequence motif with two conserved arginines (RR-motif), and transport takes place after a recruitment of TatA. Unfolded Tat substrate domains lower translocation efficiency and too long linkers lead to translocation arrest. To identify the components that interact with transported proteins during their passage through the translocon, we used a Tat substrate that arrests translocation at a long unfolded linker region, and we chose in vivo site-directed photo cross-linking to specifically detect the interactions of this linker region. For comparison, we included the interactions of the signal peptide and of the folded domain at the C-terminus of this construct. The data show that the linker contacts only two, structurally similar Tat components, namely TatA and TatB. These contacts depend on the recognition of the Tat-specific signal peptide. Only when membrane translocation of the globular domain was allowed – i.e., in the absence of the linker – we observed the same TatAB-contacts also to the globular domain. The data thus suggest that mature protein domains are translocated through a TatAB environment.
Nitrogen Configuration of Polybenzoxazine Carbide
Authors: Zhang Huachuan , Gu Wu , Zhu Rongqi , Ran Qichao , Gu Yi
Published: July 2014

Carbon materials should have specific centers for its functionalities. In this study, the specific centers of polybenzoxazine carbides were studied for the first time. Three classical benzoxazine monomers were chose as the object. The transformation of nitrogen configuration of polybenzoxazines carbides was characterized via pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results showed that the tertiary amine nitrogen converted to pyridinic nitrogen and pyrrolic nitrogen incorporated in graphene residuals during the carbonization, which were the specific centers for the functionality.
Spectral problems and scattering on noncompact star-shaped graphs containing finite rays
Authors: Mochizuki Kiyoshi , Trooshin Igor
Published: July 2014

We consider Schrödinger operators on noncompact star-shaped graphs. The following topics will be treated under suitable decay conditions on the potential: characterization of the set of eigenvalues and expression of each eigen-projection; low-energy behavior of the resolvent, spectral representations of the operator restricted on infinite rays; determination of the Marchenko equations and the inverse scattering problems.
Invasive Pneumococcal Disease After Implementation of 13-Valent Conjugate Vaccine
Authors: Tam Pui-Ying Iroh , Madoff Lawrence C. , Coombes Brandon , Pelton Stephen I.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE:

To examine whether there is a different clinical profile and severity of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in children caused by nonvaccine types in the era of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13).

METHODS:

Observational study of childhood IPD in Massachusetts based on state public health surveillance data comparing pre-PCV13 (2007–2009) and post-PCV13 (2010–2012) eras.

RESULTS:

There were 168 pre-PCV13 cases of IPD and 85 post-PCV13 cases of IPD in Massachusetts children ≤5 years of age. PCV13 serotypes declined by 18% in the first 2 years after PCV13 use (P = .011). In the post-PCV13 phase, a higher proportion of children were hospitalized (57.6% vs 50.6%), and a higher proportion of children had comorbidity (23.5% vs 19.6%). Neither difference was statistically significant, nor were comparisons of IPD caused by vaccine and nonvaccine types. Children with comorbidities had higher rates of IPD caused by a nonvaccine type (27.6% vs 17.2%; P = .085), were more likely to be hospitalized (80.4% vs 50%; P < .0001), and were more likely to have a longer hospital stay (median of 3 days vs 0.5 days; P = .0001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Initial data suggest that nonvaccine serotypes are more common in children with underlying conditions, who have greater morbidity from disease. In the post-PCV13 era, a larger proportion of patients are hospitalized, but mortality rates are unchanged. Routine vaccination with PCV13 may not be enough to reduce the risk in patients with comorbidity.
Comparison of different settings and pre-treatments in soil particle-size distribution measurement by laser-diffraction method
Authors: Makó András , Rajkai K. , Hernádi H. , Hauk G.
Published: July 2014

Results of the performed preliminary particle size determination (PSD) experiments of soils show the importance of the preparation details of the laser diffractometer method (LDM). The analysis of the effect of each preparation factor on soil PSD data calls attention to the need for working out standard instructions defining the pre-treatments and settings for the LDM instrument. Further laboratory experiments involving larger soil datasets are required for the better understanding of the effects of soil pre-treatments and settings on PSD data. There is a practical reason of substituting the time-consuming pipette method with the LDM. In case of this substitution, linkages of the LDM PSD data and other soil properties are to be established. Correlation study of the LDM and conventional PSD data could make the harmonization of newly built and historical databases possible. Finally, the introduction of the LDM technique to soil physical methodology could generate the reevaluation of existing soil physical interrelations.
Application of legacy soil data in digital soil mapping for the elaboration of novel, countrywide maps of soil conditions
Authors: Pásztor László , Dobos E. , Szatmári G. , Laborczi A. , Takács K. , Bakacsi Zs. , Szabó J.
Published: July 2014

The main objective of the DOSoReMI.hu (Digital, Optimized, Soil Related Maps and Information in Hungary) project is to significantly extend the potential, how demands on spatial soil related information could be satisfied in Hungary. Although a great amount of soil information is available due to former mappings and surveys, there are more and more frequently emerging discrepancies between the available and the expected data. The gaps are planned to be filled with optimized digital soil mapping (DSM) products heavily based on legacy soil data, which still represent a valuable treasure of soil information at the present time. The paper presents three approaches for the application of Hungarian legacy soil data in object oriented digital soil mapping.
Biomarker Validation: Common Data Analysis Concerns
Authors: Ensor Joe E.
Published: July 2014

Biomarker validation, like any other confirmatory process based on statistical methodology, must discern associations that occur by chance from those reflecting true biological relationships. Validity of a biomarker is established by authenticating its correlation with clinical outcome. Validated biomarkers can lead to targeted therapy, improve clinical diagnosis, and serve as useful prognostic and predictive factors of clinical outcome. Statistical concerns such as confounding and multiplicity are common in biomarker validation studies. This article discusses four major areas of concern in the biomarker validation process and some of the proposed solutions. Because present-day statistical packages enable the researcher to address these common concerns, the purpose of this discussion is to raise awareness of these statistical issues in the hope of improving the reproducibility of validation study findings.
Identification of chitin in 200-million-year-old gastropod egg capsules
Authors: Wysokowski Marcin , Zatoń Michał , Bazhenov Vasilii V. , Behm Thomas , Ehrlich Andre , Stelling Allison L. , Hog Martin , Ehrlich Hermann
Published: July 2014

Chitin occurs in a variety of invertebrates, especially in arthropod cuticles, but is rarely reported in the fossil record. Although it has been detected in fossils as old as Middle Cambrian and Silurian, the majority of records come from much younger, Cenozoic deposits. In this paper, we report the preservation of chitin in Early Jurassic neritimorph gastropod egg capsules deposited in bivalve shells from prodelta-deltafront and nearshore paleoenvironments of the Holy Cross Mountains, Poland. We used a number of analytical methods to confirm the presence of chitin preserved in these ancient fossils. This is the first record of chitin preservation in Mesozoic deposits that, interestingly, do not follow the conventional Konservat-Lagerstätten manner of preserving soft-bodied and non-biomineralized organisms. We believe that deltaic settings characterized by episodic, high input of fluvial deposits, oligohaline conditions, and oxygen-poor microenvironment within the sediment—as well as early cementation of sediment infilling the shells—were crucial for chitin preservation. The preservation of chitin in such recalcitrant structures as egg capsules and deposits that formed outside conventional Konservat-Lagerstätten conditions renders it likely similar deposits may yield promise for discoveries of similar biological macromolecules.
Setting and hardening properties of alite-barium calcium sulfoaluminate cement with SCMs
Authors: Shoude Wang , Cheng Chen , Chenchen Gong , Yaming Chen , Lingchao Lu , Xin Cheng
Published: July 2014

The effects of supplementary cementing materials (SCMs) on the performance of paste rheology, setting time, compressive strength and shrinkage of alite-barium calcium sulfoaluminate cement were investigated. The activation mechanism of SCMs in cement was also studied. Similar to Portland cement, the addition of SCMs was found to decrease the yield shear stress and viscosity of alite-barium calcium sulfoaluminate paste, prolong its setting time and lower the early compressive strength. It was also found to reduce the shrinkage of alite-barium calcium sulfoaluminate mortar. With an increase in the replacement ratio of slag for fly ash, the yield shear stress and plastic viscosity of paste with SCMs decreased in stages due to the ‘ball bearing' effect of fly ash and the initial and final setting times of paste with SCMs increased, with lime significantly restraining ettringite formation. Owing to hydraulic reactions at a later curing age and the close aggregate packing effect of SCMs, the mechanical properties of paste with SCMs increased significantly. Moreover, it was found that fly ash is activated more effectively than slag in alite-barium calcium sulfoaluminate cement at long-term curing ages, which is different from SCM activation in Portland cement.
Body composition assessment in athletes: A systematic review
Authors: Mazic Sanja , Lazovic Biljana , Djelic Marina , Suzic-Lazic Jelena , Acimovic Tijana , Brkic Predrag
Published: July 2014

Body composition represents an unbreakable unity of the human body basic
structure elements and involves a relative representation of the various
constituent elements of the human total body weight. It is well known that
body composition changes under the influence of continuous physical activity,
and, therefore, it is one of the major components of fitness, and general
health of the athletes. Therefore, this topic has become a major field of
interest for many exercise and sport scientists as well as clinicians who
specialize not only in different training methods but also in the prevention
of and rehabilitation from major injuries. To date, having considered issues
of accuracy, repeatability and utility, there is no universally applicable
criterion or ?gold standard? methodology for body composition assessment in
athletes. The main objective of this review was to give a short overview of
methods for body composition analysis in athletes and to show and compare the
latest data on their usefulness and reliability in order to find the best
solution for practical everyday work.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation as an adjuvant method in the treatment of depression: Preliminary results
Authors: Jovicic Milica , Radovanovic Sasa , Maric Nadja , Kostic Vladimir
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a method
of brain stimulation which is increasingly used in both clinical practice and
research. Up-to-date studies have pointed out a potential antidepressive
effect of rTMS, but definitive superiority over placebo has not yet been
confirmed. Objective. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of rTMS
as an adjuvant treatment with antidepressants during 18 weeks of evaluation
starting from the initial application of the protocol. Methods. Four patients
with the diagnosis of moderate/severe major depression were included in the
study. The protocol involved 2000 stimuli per day (rTMS frequency of 10 Hz,
intensity of 120% motor threshold) administered over the left dorsolateral
prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) for 15 days. Subjective and objective depressive
symptoms were measured before the initiation of rTMS and repeatedly evaluated
at week 3, 6, 12 and 18 from the beginning of the stimulation. Results. After
completion of rTMS protocol two patients demonstrated a reduction of
depressive symptoms that was sustained throughout the 15-week follow-up
period. One patient showed a tendency of remission during the first 12 weeks
of the study, but relapsed in week 18. One patient showed no significant
symptom reduction at any point of follow-up. Conclusion. Preliminary findings
suggest that rTMS has a good tolerability and can be efficient in
accelerating the effect of antidepressants, particularly in individuals with
shorter duration of depressive episodes and moderate symptom severity.
Detection of herpes simplex virus type 1 in gingival crevicular fluid of gingival sulcus/periodontal pocket using polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Matic-Petrovic Sanja , Zelic Ksenija , Milasin Jelena , Popovic Branka , Pucar Ana , Zelic Obrad
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Pathogenesis and some characteristics of periodontitis cannot
be fully explained by bacterial etiology alone. Herpes viruses may bridge
the gap between clinical characteristics and molecular understanding of
periodontal destruction. Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate
the prevalence of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in gingival crevicular
fluid (GCF) of healthy and damaged periodontium in Serbian population and to
explore potential correlation between the presence of this virus and the
level of periodontal destruction. Methods. Samples were collected from
gingival sulcus/periodontal pockets by sterile paper points and the presence
of viral DNA in gingival crevicular fluid was assessed by PCR. Results.
There was no statistically significant difference in HSV-1 in presence
between periodontitis patients (PG=38.9%) and healthy controls (HC=32.3%),
(Chi-square test, with Yates? correction p=0.7574). However, HSV-1 positive
patients showed significantly higher values of parameters of periodontal
destruction (PPD=7.11?2.52, CAL=5.46?2.34) than periodontitis patients
without HSV-1 in gingival crevicular fluid (PPD=4.70?1.79, CAL=3.39?2.65) (p
values respectively, p=0.002 and p=0.023, Independent Samples T-Test). HSV-1
occurred more often in deeper (PPD?6 mm) (69.2%) than in shallow pockets (3
mm<PPD<6 mm) (18.2%) (Chi-square test, with Yates? correction, p=0.008).
Plaque index was lower in the HSV-1 positive group (0.84?0.69 vs. 1.43?0.76,
p=0.023, Independent Samples T-Test). Conclusion. This study demonstrated
that the presence of HSV-1 in the gingival crevicular fluid coincides with a
higher degree of tissue destruction in patients with periodontitis.
Changes in subgingival microflora after placement and removal of fixed orthodontic appliances
Authors: Zivkovic-Sandic Marija , Popovic Branka , Carkic Jelena , Nikolic Nadja , Glisic Branislav
Published: July 2014

Introduction. The placement of fixed orthodontic appliances may lead to
increased plaque accumulation and changes in subgingival microflora.
Objective. The aim of this study was to examine the changes in frequency of
subgingival microflora that occur after placement and removal of fixed
orthodontic appliance using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Methods. This
study included 33 orthodontic patients, who were divided into two groups.
Subgingival plaque samples were collected from the right upper incisor (U1)
and right upper first molar (U6). In group A, the samples were taken three
times: before placement appliance (T1), after one month (T2), and after 3
months (T3). In group B the samples were also taken three times: before
appliance removal (T1), after one month (T2), and after three months (T3).
PCR method was used to determine the presence of P. gingivalis, A.
actinomycetemcomitans, T. forsythia, and P. intermedia. Results. In group A
the frequency of P. gingivalis showed statistically significant decrease at
U1 (p=0.049) and U6 (p=0.008), from T1 to T2, and at U1 (p=0.048) from T1 to
T3. In group B only the frequency of T. forsythia showed a statistically
significant decrease, at U6 (T1 vs. T2, p=0.004; T1 vs. T3, p=0.0003).
Regarding other analyzed bacteria, changes in the presence were noticed but
no statistical significance was found. Conclusion. Placement of fixed
appliances may have an impact on subgingival microflora, but in the first
months after the placement and removal of the appliance changes were not
significant, probably due to good oral hygiene.
The influence of hyperprolactinemia on coagulation parameters in females with prolactinomas
Authors: Medic-Stojanoska Milica , Mitic Gorana , Mitic Igor , Spasic Dragan , Curic Nikola , Pekic Sandra , Kovacev-Zavisic Branka , Popovic Vera
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Currently there is little information on the effects of
prolactin (PRL) on the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems. Objective. The
aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hypeprolactinemia on the
parameters of the hemostatic system and activation of the coagulation system.
Methods. We studied PRL levels, body mass index (BMI), values of activated
partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time
(TT), D-dimer level, von Willebrand factor antigen (vWFAg) and fibrinogen in
15 young female patients with microprolactinomas before and after therapy and
in 15 healthy female controls. Results. As expected, pretreatment PRL levels
were significantly higher in patients than in controls (140.90?42.87 vs.
12.53?4.05 ng/ml; p<0.001). PT, although still in the normal range, was
prolonged in patients with hyperprolactinemia as compared to the control
group (13.53?1.39 vs. 12.65?0.53 s; p=0.03) and normalized after therapy
(12.69?0.65 vs. 12.65?0.53 s; p=0.88). TT, although in normal range, was
significantly shorter in the hypeprolactinemic patients than in the controls
(14.34?4.52 vs. 17.21?1.35 s; p<0.025) and after treatment remained
significantly shorter than in the controls (15.17?1.55 vs. 17.21?1.35 s;
p<0.0001). D-dimer values before treatment in the patients with
hyperproplactinemia were above the normal range (239.47?107.93 vs.
131.27?50.64 ng/ml, p=0.002) and decreased to normal values after therapy
(239.47?107.93 vs. 146.60?39.15 ng/ml; p<0.001). D-dimer levels correlated
with PRL (r=0.30) and the change in serum D-dimer values significantly
correlated with the change in PRL levels during therapy (r=0.62). aPTT, vWFAg
and fibrinogen were similar in patients and controls. Conclusion. In our
study, increased thrombin generation that resulted in elevated D-dimer levels
may be one of the contributing factors to the prethrombotic state in patients
with hyperprolactinemia.
Hard dental tissue minimal-invasive preparation using contemporary polymer rotating instruments and laser
Authors: Beloica Milos , Vulicevic Zoran , Mandinic Zoran , Radovic Ivana , Jovicic Olivera , Carevic Momir , Tekic Jasmina
Published: July 2014

Goal of contemporary dentistry is to decrease the patient?s discomfort during
treatment. Dentists aim to achieve maximum with the newly developed dental
materials as well as with new cavity preparation techniques in the shortest
time span. Since the development of the first constructed borer (drilling
machine) for caries removal, the preparation techniques have considerably
changed. The progress of dental materials as well as the cavity preparation
techniques has led us to contemporary carbide tungsten and diamond borers
that are used with obligatory water cooling. The innovation within this field
represents newly developed polymer borers that can detect the difference
between carious lesions and healthy tooth structure. In this way the cavity
preparation may be performed without damaging dental healthy tissue. This is
possible owing to their hardness which is lower than the hardness of intact
dentin. Polymer borer preparation is painless with less vibration, while the
increase in temperature is negligible. Lasers have been used in clinical
dentistry since 1980s so it can be said that they represent a new technology.
The function of lasers is based on ablation which requires water. Erbium
lasers have shown the highest potential with their ability to produce
effective ablation of hard dental tissues. Laser application in dentistry
requires special training as well as some protective measures. Laser
advantages, compared to traditional preparation techniques, involve the
absence of vibration, painless preparation, possibility of preparation
without anesthetic and easier patient?s adjustment to dental intervention
which is of importance, especially in pediatric dentistry.
Virtual Mobility as an Inclusion Strategy in Higher Education: Research on Distance Education Master Degrees in Europe, Latin America and Asia
Authors: Ruiz-Corbella Marta , Álvarez-González Beatriz
Published: July 2014

Mobility of higher education students is one of the main indicators of competitiveness among universities, and a key aspect for quality in education. Colleges with virtual and distance methodologies include student mobility programmes. Within this context, the Active Projects (Erasmus MUNDUS Programme, EC: Net-Active and Active-Asia) compare and evaluate the feasibility of Virtual Mobility programmes for students in distance learning courses at institutions in Europe, Latin America and central Asia. The methodological information, organisation and content of 256 master's degrees offered in distance learning programmes at universities from the three regions were analysed. This article presents and discusses the main results, particularly convergences and divergences among these regions, the issues affecting online and distance higher education, focusing on the development and delivery of postgraduate studies (MSc courses) and, especially, the possibilities of inter-institutional collaboration through Virtual Mobility. One of the main conclusions is that in order to advance towards internationalisation, higher education study plans should offer master's degrees comparable, understandable and consistent with other academic offerings. This article is the result of research conducted over six years by a team of scholars and experts from Europe, Latin America and central Asia.
Application of Taguchi and Anova Methods in Selection of Process Parameters for Surface Roughness in Precision Turning of Titanium
Authors: Kowalczyk Małgorzata
Published: July 2014

The objective of this study is the selection of cutting data (such as nc, f, ap) and tool materials (PCD, ceramic, CBN and carbide cutting tools) in order to improve the surface roughness in precision turning operation of parts made of pure titanium (GRADE 2). Machining parameters and tool materials are considered as input parameters. The surface roughness is selected as the process output measure of performance. A Taguchi approach is employed to gather experimental data. Then, based on signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio, the best sets of cutting parameters and tool materials specifications have been determined.
A note on the convergence of partial Szász-Mirakyan type operators
Authors: Herzog Monika
Published: July 2014

In this paper we study approximation properties of partial modified Szasz-Mirakyan operators for functions from exponential weight spaces. We present some direct theorems giving the degree of approximation for these operators. The considered version of Szász-Mirakyan operators is more useful from the computational point of view.
Bioassay of Insecticides Against Three Honey Bee Species in Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Husain D. , Qasim M. , Saleem M. , Akhter M. , Khan K.A.
Published: July 2014

A study was conducted at the Eco-toxicology laboratory in the Department of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, against three species Apis florea, A. dorsata and A. mellifera of honey bees, to check long-term survival of honeybees when exposed to different insecticides. In this study, we used a modeling approach regarding survival data of caged bees under chronic exposure to seven insecticides (Carbosulfan, Chlorpyrifos, Bifenthrin, Spinosad, Indoxacarb, Emamectin benzoate and Imidacloprid), having three replicates and four concentrations (1000, 500, 250, 125 and 0 ppm). We demonstrate the chronic toxicity induced by these insecticides. Laboratory bioassay of these insecticides showed that carbosulfan and imidacloprid were the most toxic at their high dose (1000 ppm) with LT50 of 4 hours in each case for A. mellifera, chlorpyrifos and imidacloprid were the most toxic at their high dose (1000 ppm) with LT50 of 5 hours in each case for A. florea whereas chlorpyrifos was the most toxic at high dose (1000 ppm) with LT50 of 5 hours for A. dorsata. However, LT50 of spinosad was increased up to 18 hrs with decreasing concentrations at 125 ppm against A. mellifera, LT50 of spinosad was increased up to 15 hrs with decreasing concentrations at 125 ppm against A. florea as well as LT50 of spinosad and Emamectin benzoate was increased up to 20 hrs with decreasing concentrations at 125 ppm against A. dorsata. However, LT50 of all controlled species was 91-103 hrs.
Hydropower Generation on The Nysa Klodzka River
Authors: Kasperek Robert , Wiatkowski Mirosław
Published: July 2014

Adopted in 2009, the Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources sets out the rules for how Poland is to achieve the 15% target of total primary energy from renewables by 2020. However, there are fears that the goals set out in this Directive may not be met. The share of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) in national energy consumption (150 TWh) is estimated at 8.6 TWh in 2009 and 12 TWh in 2011 (5.7 and 8% respectively). The level of RES in Poland until 2005 was approx. 7.2%. The analysis of RES technologies currently in use in Poland shows that in terms of the share in the total capacity, the 750 hydro-electric power plants which are currently in operation (with the overall capacity of almost 0.95 GW) are second only to wind power stations (2 GW). The authors have studied the Nysa Klodzka River in terms of possible locations for hydro-electric facilities. Eight locations have been identified where power plants might be constructed with installed capacities ranging from 319 to 1717 kW. The expected total annual electric power generation of these locations would stand at approx. 37.5 GWh.