bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Los procesos de lectura y escritura en la inteligencia emocional
Authors: Giraldo Ramírez Germán
Published: January 2015

La asociación entre la inteligencia emocional —como un conjunto de recursos inherentes al sujeto que faci- litan su calidad de vida— y los procesos de lectura y escritura constituyen una indagación muy reciente que no alcanza investigaciones depuradas en diferen- tes contextos académicos. No existe una axiomática generadora de principios y metodologías, sino un con- junto de textos que vienen alcanzando un éxito edito- rial  que llaman la atención de muchos investigadores en actividades específicas, como es el caso de la lec- tura y escritura de textos. En este escrito se exponen algunas experiencias  de  proyectos de investigación con estudiantes de Enfermería de la Facultad de Salud de la Universidad Santiago de Cali y estudiantes del Distrito de Agua Blanca de Santiago de Cali. Dichas experiencias  se desarrollan en cinco preguntas de investigación así: 1. Lectura, escritura y conocimiento de  sí mismo. 2. Los recursos del control emocional 3. Auto motivación lectura y escritura.  4. La apro- piación de la empatía 5. La inteligencia interpersonal como apropiación de las disciplinas en la formación profesional.
Tecnologías de la información y las comunicaciones en Colombia: política de telecomunicaciones sociales Compartel: un caso de estudio
Authors: Hernández Ospina Magally
Published: January 2015

Este texto presenta la caracterización,inicio, implementación y desarrollo de la política pública entelecomunicaciones sociales Compartel llevada a cabo en Colombia, entre1998-2009 a partir de una contextualización de lo que son las políticaspúblicas, destacando los principales momentos de cambio de Compartel, losactores que intervinieron en ellos, así como las características y resultadospropiciados por los cambios de política y algunas conclusiones sobre laevolución de las políticas públicas de TIC en Colombia relacionadasdirectamente con la Política de Telecomunicaciones Sociales Compartel. Estaponencia surge a partir de la investigación realizada por la autora, al cursarla Maestría en Estudios Políticos del Instituto de Estudios Políticos y RelacionesInternacionales, IEPRI, de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia. La metodologíautilizada para el desarrollo de la investigación fue de tipo cualitativautilizando técnicas de investigación como entrevistas semiestructuradas yanálisis documental de un compendio de documentos en un periodo de once años,específicamente, entre 1998 y 2009. Para el desarrollo de esta investigación seaplicó el modelo de análisis de política pública denominado AdvocacyCoalitions.
ANTONIO SAMUDIO
Authors: Cobo Borda Juan Gustavo
Published: January 2015

Juan Gustavo Cobo Borda presenta un análisis de la obra delartista bogotano Antonio Samudio. Explora sus temas, motivaciones y describe, desde su punto de vista,el mundo sórdido y misterioso al que invitan las pinturas de Samudio.
El monumento a las banderas en la avenida de las Américas en Bogotá
Authors: Carrizosa Posada Diego
Published: January 2015

El presente ensayo tiene como objetivo indagar sobre el momentosociopolítico que se vivió en el país desde 1946 hasta 1948 y porqué razón se encarga al artista Alonso Neira Martínez la realizaciónarquitectónica y escultórica del monumento a las banderas;conocer las políticas de diseño urbano que durante esos años imperaron en la capital y de qué manera beneficiaría a losbogotanos la construcción de la avenida de las Américas; asimismo, conocer la biografía del artista Alonso Neira Martínez (1913 - 1991) e indagar sobre las razones por las cualesrealizó un diseño escultórico neoclásico en el monumento a las banderas.
Renovación de la acreditación de alta calidad para el programa de mercadeo y publicidad
Authors: Hernández Muñoz Sergio Oswaldo
Published: January 2015

Un logro producto de la madurez que da la experiencia de lo que ha sido bien construido
La crisis de credibilidad de las organizaciones periodísticas:
Authors: Barredo Ibáñez Daniel
Published: January 2015

Desde los años ochenta, los medios de comunicación registran un descenso continuado tanto en el consumo de las audiencias como en el eje de relevancia social. A través de una revisión de la literatura académica sobre la crisis de credibilidad, en el siguiente artículo se expone la ruptura paradigmática que ha supuesto Internet respecto de las organizaciones periodísticas convencionales. Frente a la decadencia de ese periodismo organizacional, el periodismo en red vive un momento de explosión identitaria que desencadena una multiplicidad de lenguajes, de formas, de opciones. Las siguientes pautas afianzan la emergencia de un nuevo colectivo que profundiza el significado de la sociedad de la información: la sociedad de los ideantes, definida por la transparencia en la gestión, la heterarquización en la convivencia y la participación ciudadana
La profundidad de la apariencia: el vestido en el debate entre el arte y el diseño
Authors: Fernández Silva Claudia
Published: January 2015

El presente artículo hace parte de las reflexiones alrededor de la investigación de la tesis doctoral titulada El vestido en la creación del cuerpo: una aproximación desde el diseño y la creación, adelantada en el Doctorado en Diseño y Creación de la Universidad de Caldas. Dicha investigación tiene por objetivo proponer una manera de entender y estudiar la relación entre el diseño y el vestido a partir de la acción creadora. De acuerdo con esta premisa, indagaremos sobre uno de los problemas por el que atraviesa la historia general del diseño como área de conocimiento, esto es, sus diferencias y proximidades con el arte, cuyos argumentos centrales han dado forma a la actual concepción del vestido como un objeto ligado a la apariencia, que dificulta su análisis crítico desde la perspectiva disciplinar del diseño
Los hipsters bogotanos: visión desde la antropología social en perspectiva publicitaria
Authors: Polanco Contreras José , Sánchez Riaño Vladimir
Published: January 2015

Este artículo recogió algunas investigaciones en torno al fenómeno de la moda en Bogotá, realizadas por el Observatorio de Antropología y Publicidad de la Universidad de Bogotá Jorge Tadeo Lozano. Además de presentar un estado de la cuestión sobre la relación actual de la antropología social y la publicidad, se presenta el caso del grupo social hipsters bogotanos. El método etnográfico de la investigación permite tener hallazgos significativos, como la creciente tendencia a la personalización en el mundo de la moda, la reafirmación de la moda como una forma de expresión y representación social y la eficaz penetración de los nuevos medios, como Internet, para crear tendencias y resistencias a las grandes marcas en los planos tanto locales como globales.
La presencia del pensamiento narrativo en la letra de las canciones
Authors: Cuesta Óscar Julián , Gómez Alberto
Published: January 2015

El presente artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación que buscó identificar la presencia del pensamiento narrativo en las letras de las canciones. Para ello, realizó un análisis de la letra de tres canciones de diferentes géneros de la música latinoamericana: Jaime Molina, de Rafael Escalona (vallenato), Plantación adentro, de Rubén Blades (salsa) y Matador, de Los Fabulosos Cadillacs (ska), el cual utilizó una matriz de análisis construida con categorías del pensamiento narrativo. Finalmente, el artículo plantea la importancia de estimular el pensar narrativo como posibilidad para configurar sujetos con conciencia histórica.
Los tres ojos del cíclope
Authors: García Sandra Jubelly
Published: January 2015

El presente artículo surge de una investigación en la que se propuso precisar el vínculo entre la violencia y el cine colombiano y el modo en que este expresa la violencia. En un primer momento se delimitó el periodo por estudiar, que para la cinematografía colombiana fue de 1990 a 2008, y para la historia de Colombia el que abarcó desde el Frente Nacional hasta 2008, periodo al que se denomina “tercera violencia”. En primera instancia se vieron los hechos violentos que caracterizaron el periodo histórico en mención, para luego, a partir de un análisis comparativo, observar de qué manera el cine colombiano incorporó esa violencia en su relato. Pero aun fueron necesarios otros análisis a medida que avanzaba la investigación, por ejemplo, cómo se configuran los imaginarios, de qué modo funcionan sobre la alteridad y cómo circula la ideología cuando el vehículo es el cine. De modo que este artículo intentará reproducir el periplo de la investigación y algunas reflexiones sobre el acto creativo.
La miopía en la gestión frente a la innovación en una oferta de mercado
Authors: Godoy Pava Clemencia
Published: January 2015

A través del artículo se hace un análisis de la innovación en relación con la oferta de mercado y cómo es manejada en mercadeo, para luego establecer la estrecha relación que el tema tiene con el modo de gestión en las empresas, profundizando en la manera tradicional como la gestión ha sido asumida y aplicada y sus implicaciones para el logro de la innovación. Finalmente, lo anterior se vincula con la creación de valor a partir del papel del consumidor como prosu- midor, desde el enfoque del marketing holístico, dada la importancia y repercusión que el modo de gestión también tiene para este enfoque.
Uso de las TIC como estrategia para mejorar la comprensión lectora
Authors: García Melo Edna Constanza , Quintero Aldana Gina
Published: January 2015

Este escrito narra una experiencia pedagógica realizada en el marco del diplomado Programa de Formación Docente en Comprensión Lectora, dirigido a profesores de colegios del sector oficial en los municipios de Castilla, Coyaima y Guamo,<span lang="ES-AR" style="line-height: 200%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: +mn-ea; mso-fareast-language: ES-AR; mso-ansi-language: ES-CO; mso-font-kerning: 12.0pt;"> <span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: +mn-ea; mso-fareast-language: ES-AR; mso-ansi-language: ES-CO; mso-font-kerning: 12.0pt;">ubicados al sur del departamento del Tolima. El programa fue organizado por la Secretaria de Educación Departamental y la Universidad de Ibagué. Los colegios que formaron parte de esta experiencia fueron escogidos debido a sus bajos resultados históricos en el Icfes y en las Pruebas Saber. En el desarrollo del módulo dedicado a herramientas virtuales orientadas hacia la pedagogía los maestros participantes crearon los blogs de sus asignaturas o de sus áreas de trabajo. Una de las conclusiones de la experiencia fue que las instituciones deben incorporar el uso de las TIC para visibilizar sus propuestas pedagógicas y proporcionar a su comunidad escolar la oportunidad de conocer y gozar las bondades de la tecnología al servicio de la educación.
 
El ideal de pensar críticamente: promesas y realidades
Authors: Pinedo Cantillo Iván Alfonso
Published: January 2015

El progreso humano en general y el desarrollo personal de los estudiantes están vinculados indiscutiblemente a procesos rigurosos de reflexión, pero una reflexión que en el ámbito educativo calificamos como crítica e intencionada. Educar con conciencia crítica es educar para construir humanidad mediante una orientación intelectual específica que nos hace más libres y auténticos. En este contexto, encontramos el pensamiento crítico como herramienta pedagógica privilegiada que busca fomentar la autonomía del pensamiento y la puesta en marcha de procesos inéditos de humanización, entendida como el proceso continuo que busca potencializar todas y cada una de las dimensiones del ser humano. De esta forma, reflexión intencionada, pensamiento crítico y procesos de humanización en el aula constituyen un triángulo pedagógico que puede alimentar la noble tarea de educar ciudadanos en el siglo XXI.
El proceso creativo en el taoísmo y en la psicología occidental
Authors: Mastrodoménico Brid Hugo
Published: January 2015

Mostrando algunas analogías entre el pensamiento oriental, especialmente del antiguo taoísmo chino, y algunas escuelas psicológicas contemporáneas cercanas al neohumanismo gestáltico y la llamada psicología transpersonal, en el presente artículo se presentan y discuten los principales hallazgos de la ciencia psicológica sobre el proceso creativo, las características de personalidad de los sujetos altamente creativos y las circunstancias psicosociales que suelen favorecer el surgimiento de la creatividad.Traza una línea en el espacio y ya tienes un lado y el otro. Piensa en algo y te diré que lo contrario también existe con su monto de verdad. Justifícame el ser, que yo te justificaré el no ser.Arriba y abajo, izquierda y derecha, vida y muerte, belleza y fealdad, bien y mal, éxito y fracaso, luz y oscuridad, tristeza y alegría, etc., los anteriores son apenas algunos ejemplos de conceptos contrarios que, tal vez, son realmente opuestos en la realidad o solo son concebidos como tales por la forma en la cual funcionan nuestros procesos sensoriales y cognitivos.
Informed structures: forensic information modelling
Authors: Malsch Elisabeth A. , Brando Francesca , Panariello Gary F.
Published: January 2015

Forensic information modelling is an extension of building information modelling. Forensic information modelling is an approach for collecting, sorting and explaining forensic information about structures. Careful and consistent nomenclature and tagging is the backbone of any large-scale investigation. Every photo, reference document, maintenance record or material test is related to a physical object. Forensic information models codify the relationship between the data and the physical structure in an interactive three-dimensional environment. This aids in understanding the global behaviour of the structure and in identifying changes in behaviour over time. In addition, forensic information modelling has been essential for explaining engineering findings and repair options to the wider public.
Environmental (waste) compliance control systems for UK SMEs
Authors: Wilson Christopher D. H. , Williams Ian David , Kemp Simon
Published: January 2015

While the ‘environment’ is often perceived as a heavily regulated area of business, in reality, directly regulated businesses represent a small proportion of the business community. This study aimed to evaluate and outline potential improvements to compliance controls for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly those involved in the waste sector. In total, 44 SMEs in England were interviewed/audited between April and September 2008. Using a UK-based system as a case-in-point, the Environment Agency's (EA) operational risk appraisal (Opra)/compliance assessment report (CAR) system was analysed. Environmental compliance performance indicators and an initial assessment methodology for SMEs were developed. The study showed: compliance with permitting legislation was poor in many areas; regulatory authorities are either unable/failing to implement their enforcement policies or are unable/failing to identify non-compliances due to the infrequency or limited nature of their inspections; improvements are needed to the EA Opra/CAR system since control measures are not fully taken into account when calculating risk. Recommendations to improve SME compliance controls include using internationally applicable general and specific compliance and non-compliance performance indicators, redesigning the Opra system, and using an initial assessment methodology based on understanding the hazardousness of SME categories, compliance levels and operator competency.
Choosing Wisely for Birth
Authors: Budin Wendy C.
Published: January 2015

In this column, the editor of The Journal of Perinatal Education describes the American Academy of Nursing’s engagement in the national Choosing Wisely campaign and how it has implications for promoting normal birth. The editor also describes the contents of this issue, which offer a broad range of resources, research, and inspiration for childbirth educators in their efforts to promote, support, and protect natural, safe, and healthy birth.
Social Support, Postpartum Depression, and Professional Assistance: A Survey of Mothers in the Midwestern United States
Authors: Corrigan Catherine P. , Kwasky Andrea N. , Groh Carla J.
Published: January 2015

Transition into motherhood is generally a joyful life event; for some women, however, it is marked by emotional turmoil. Lack of support can be associated with postpartum depression and can compromise both the mother and infant. A descriptive, cross-sectional study (N = 61) was conducted to explore the relationship between social support and postpartum depression and to determine whether mothers overwhelmed with childcare, or overwhelmed with life in general since becoming a mother, sought professional help. The results revealed that screening for depression alone may not be sufficient, that mothers are willing to contact a professional for help in the postpartum period, and that assessments after birth should include a broader assessment of life’s difficulties rather than focusing on childcare responsibilities alone.
Does Auditor Reputation “Discourage” Related-Party Transactions? The French Case
Authors: Bennouri Moez , Nekhili Mehdi , Touron Philippe
Published: January 2015

We use a unique dataset from a sample of 85 French firms over the period 2002–2008 in order to answer the following questions: Is there any relation between the use of auditors with a brand-name reputation for providing high-quality audit reports and the number of related-party transactions (RPTs) reported to outside shareholders? And, how does a more transparent environment for the reporting of related-party transactions affect this relationship, if at all? We find that firms audited by Big 4 auditors report fewer related-party transactions. The period under study includes the change in accounting standards in Europe that occurred in 2005 with the adoption of IFRS standards, which resulted in a more transparent reporting environment for RPTs. We find that the negative relationship between auditor reputation and the number of reported of RPTs is “weaker” in a more transparent reporting environment. We argue that these results are related to the accounting uncertainty surrounding the reporting of related-party transactions that particularly affects the behavior of Big 4 auditors.

JEL Classifications: G34, G38, K33, M42.

Data Availability: All untabulated results are available upon request from the authors.
Shining a Light on Effective Teaching Best Practices: Survey Findings from Award-Winning Accounting Educators
Authors: Wygal Donald E. , Stout David E.
Published: January 2015

This paper provides best practices evidence from a sample of accounting educators in the U.S. recognized formally for their teaching excellence. These teaching exemplars were surveyed and asked to list, in their own words and in ranked order of importance, “a minimum of three and up to five factors or qualities of your teaching that you believe have helped distinguish you as an effective teacher.” We received 453 responses to this question from our sample of 105 award-winning accounting educators. A content analysis of these responses suggests the following major characteristics of teaching effectiveness in accounting (in decreasing order of perceived importance): class session learning environment, student focus, preparation and organization, importance of the practice environment, passion and commitment to teaching (as a profession), and the design of the course learning environment. Response breakdowns suggest the existence of contextual effects: differences in importance ratings for selected characteristics of teaching effectiveness were observed with respect to respondent professorial rank, years of full-time teaching experience, and gender. Results shine a light on teaching effectiveness in accounting education providing, for the first time, both evidence of the perceived relative importance of specific characteristics, as well as insights on pedagogical knowledge to guide educator classroom pursuits.
Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) as a tool in geotechnical investigation of the substrate of a highway
Authors: Maślakowski Maciej , Kowalczyk Sebastian , Mieszkowski Radosław , Józefiak Kazimierz
Published: January 2015

Geological and geotechnical engineering field tests, like structure drillings and dynamic (DPL, DPSH) or static probing (CPT), are considered for a fundamental source of information about soil and water environments. Since Eurocode 7 has been introduced, it has become more common to use also dilatometers (DMT) or pressure meters (PMT). Results obtained using all the mentioned tests are always of a discrete nature - information is provided in certain points in the field. However, they determine the basis for creating spatial models of geological structure and geotechnical condi- tions of a substratum. The range and number of investigations conducted (including drilling, probing and laboratory tests) influence precision, in which a geological structure is identified and thus, also affect probability of compatibility between spatial model and real geological conditions of a substratum. In the paper, results of non-invasive electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) method are presented, comprising 2-dimensional image of a soil medium resistance. Electrical resistance is a parameter that reflects diversification of a soil medium, considering its lithological aspect. In addition, when combined with drilling results, it can be used to accurate determination of boundaries between soil layers. Carrying out of ERT tests in the field during expressway construction contributed to identification of weak, low-strength soils like organic soils (peat, aggradated mud) and of soft consistency cohesive soils. These kinds of soil are the main cause for unacceptable deformations appearing in the new road engineering structure.
Influences of Cocreation on Brand Experience
Authors: Nysveen Herbjørn , Pedersen Per Egil
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this article is to study the influence of customer cocreation participation on customers’ brand experience, brand satisfaction and brand loyalty. We apply a service logic approach in which cocreation participation refers to cocreation of customer value together with the brand, cocreation of new value with the brand and cocreation of value together with other customers within the context of the brand. The reasoning applied is that customers’ cocreation with a brand – stimulating their engagement with the brand – influences brand experience, and through that, brand satisfaction and loyalty. A study among bank customers shows that cocreation participation positively influences sensory, affective, cognitive, behavioural and relational dimensions of a brand experience. However, influences of brand experience dimensions on satisfaction and loyalty are revealed to be complex as some of the dimensions influence satisfaction positively, while others have a negative influence. Furthermore, we show that the satisfaction and loyalty effects of cocreation participation are partially mediated by brand experience. Thus, there are both indirect and direct effects on satisfaction and loyalty from customers’ cocreation participation. Implications point to the importance of carefully managing cocreation participation in order to gain competitive advantages. Companies should be careful about how brand experience is stimulated through cocreation because of the potential risk of negative effects on satisfaction and loyalty.
Cosmetic Scents by Visual and Olfactory Senses versus Purchase Intention
Authors: Yang Li-Chun , Chen Kuan-Nien
Published: January 2015

While scent is generally considered the more important factor determining consumers’ choice of cosmetics, the first impression gained by a potential purchaser is the sight of the packaging design. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relative roles of sight and smell in consumers’ choice of body lotion, using a combination of sense testing, questionnaire and interview. A total of 492 convenience-selected volunteers were asked to designate their favourite scents of five prepared body lotion samples by sight and by smell. They then undertook a questionnaire survey, and 21 of the group took part in semi-structured in-depth interviews. Most participants chose different scents when relying on sight or smell, and this difference affected their purchasing intention and purchasing motivation, with visual features of products influencing intentions more than olfactory properties. While scent was not the major reason for purchasing a cosmetic, for many participants it was an important factor. The method used may have advantages in market research over others not utilising one or other of the components.
Convenient Route to Trisubstituted Oxazoles via a Copper-Catalysed Tandem Oxidative Cyclisation by Oxygen Oxidation
Authors: Chen Chengqun , Chen Wenfu , Bao Qianhong
Published: January 2015

A novel copper-catalysed oxidative cyclisation has been developed for the synthesis of trisubstituted oxazoles, which is thought to proceed through cascade formation of C-N and C-O bonds by oxygen oxidation. The desired products can be obtained from readily available starting materials while avoiding hazardous materials. Therefore, a green synthetic method for the preparation of oxazoles has been found.
Antimony (III) Acetate as a Versatile and Efficient Catalyst for Synthesis of 14-Aryl-14H-Dibenzo[a,j]Xanthenes at room Temperature
Authors: Hakimi Fatemeh , Hassanabadi Alireza
Published: January 2015

Antimony (III) acetate was used in the one-pot three-component synthesis of biologically active 14-aryl-14H-dibenzo[a,j] xanthenes from the condensation between arylaldehydes and (3-naphthol under solvent-free conditions at ambient temperature. This methodology has a number of advantages such as, short reaction time, easy work-up and high yields.
Modulation of Radiation Response by the Tetrahydrobiopterin Pathway
Authors: Pathak Rupak , Cheema Amrita , Boca Simina , Krager Kimberly , Hauer-Jensen Martin , Aykin-Burns Nukhet
Published: January 2015

Ionizing radiation (IR) is an integral component of our lives due to highly prevalent sources such as medical, environmental, and/or accidental. Thus, understanding of the mechanisms by which radiation toxicity develops is crucial to address acute and chronic health problems that occur following IR exposure. Immediate formation of IR-induced free radicals as well as their persistent effects on metabolism through subsequent alterations in redox mediated inter- and intracellular processes are globally accepted as significant contributors to early and late effects of IR exposure. This includes but is not limited to cytotoxicity, genomic instability, fibrosis and inflammation. Damage to the critical biomolecules leading to detrimental long-term alterations in metabolic redox homeostasis following IR exposure has been the focus of various independent investigations over last several decades. The growth of the “omics” technologies during the past decade has enabled integration of “data from traditional radiobiology research”, with data from metabolomics studies. This review will focus on the role of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), an understudied redox-sensitive metabolite, plays in the pathogenesis of post-irradiation normal tissue injury as well as how the metabolomic readout of BH4 metabolism fits in the overall picture of disrupted oxidative metabolism following IR exposure.
Energy, Exergy and Performance Analysis of Small-Scale Organic Rankine Cycle Systems for Electrical Power Generation Applicable in Rural Areas of Developing Countries
Authors: Baral Suresh , Kim Dokyun , Yun Eunkoo , Kim Kyung
Published: January 2015

This paper introduces the concept of installing a small-scale organic Rankine cycle system for the generation of electricity in remote areas of developing countries. The Organic Rankine Cycle Systems (ORC) system uses a commercial magnetically-coupled scroll expander, plate type heat exchangers and plunger type working fluid feed pump. The heat source for the ORC system can be solar energy. A series of laboratory tests were conducted to confirm the cycle efficiency and expander power output of the system. Using the actual system data, the exergy destruction on the system components and exergy efficiency were assessed. Furthermore, the results of the variations of system energy and exergy efficiencies with different operating parameters, such as the evaporating and condensing pressures, degree of superheating, dead state temperature, expander inlet temperature and pressure ratio were illustrated. The system exhibited acceptable operational characteristics with good performance under a wide range of conditions. A heat source temperature of 121 °C is expected to deliver a power output of approximately 1.4 kW. In addition, the system cost analysis and financing mechanisms for the installation of the ORC system were discussed.
The Biomechanisms of Metal and Metal-Oxide Nanoparticles’ Interactions with Cells
Authors: Teske Sondra , Detweiler Corrella
Published: January 2015

Humans are increasingly exposed to nanoparticles (NPs) in medicine and in industrial settings, where significant concentrations of NPs are common. However, NP interactions with and effects on biomolecules and organisms have only recently been addressed. Within we review the literature regarding proposed modes of action for metal and metal-oxide NPs, two of the most prevalent types manufactured. Iron-oxide NPs, for instance, are used as tracers for magnetic resonance imaging of oncological tumors and as vehicles for therapeutic drug delivery. Factors and theories that determine the physicochemical and biokinetic behaviors of NPs are discussed, along with the observed toxicological effects of NPs on cells. Key thermodynamic and kinetic models that explain the sources of energy transfer from NPs to biological targets are summarized, in addition to quantitative structural activity relationship (QSAR) modeling efforts. Future challenges for nanotoxicological research are discussed. We conclude that NP studies based on cell culture are often inconsistent and underestimate the toxicity of NPs. Thus, the effect of NPs needs to be examined in whole animal systems.
Cyclic Nucleotide Signalling in Kidney Fibrosis
Authors: Schinner Elisabeth , Wetzl Veronika , Schlossmann Jens
Published: January 2015

Kidney fibrosis is an important factor for the progression of kidney diseases, e.g., diabetes mellitus induced kidney failure, glomerulosclerosis and nephritis resulting in chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) were implicated to suppress several of the above mentioned renal diseases. In this review article, identified effects and mechanisms of cGMP and cAMP regarding renal fibrosis are summarized. These mechanisms include several signalling pathways of nitric oxide/ANP/guanylyl cyclases/cGMP-dependent protein kinase and cAMP/Epac/adenylyl cyclases/cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Furthermore, diverse possible drugs activating these pathways are discussed. From these diverse mechanisms it is expected that new pharmacological treatments will evolve for the therapy or even prevention of kidney failure.
Quantitative Expression Analysis of APP Pathway and Tau Phosphorylation-Related Genes in the ICV STZ-Induced Non-Human Primate Model of Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Park Sang-Je , Kim Young-Hyun , Nam Gyu-Hwi , Choe Se-Hee , Lee Sang-Rae , Kim Sun-Uk , Kim Ji-Su , Sim Bo-Woong , Song Bong-Seok , Jeong Kang-Jin , Lee Youngjeon , Park Young , Lee Kyoung-Min , Huh Jae-Won , Chang Kyu-Tae
Published: January 2015

The accumulation and aggregation of misfolded proteins in the brain, such as amyloid-β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau, is a neuropathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Previously, we developed and validated a novel non-human primate model for sporadic AD (sAD) research using intracerebroventricular administration of streptozotocin (icv STZ). To date, no characterization of AD-related genes in different brain regions has been performed. Therefore, in the current study, the expression of seven amyloid precursor protein (APP) pathway-related and five tau phosphorylation-related genes was investigated by quantitative real-time PCR experiments, using two matched-pair brain samples from control and icv STZ-treated cynomolgus monkeys. The genes showed similar expression patterns within the control and icv STZ-treated groups; however, marked differences in gene expression patterns were observed between the control and icv STZ-treated groups. Remarkably, other than β-secretase (BACE1) and cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5), all the genes tested showed similar expression patterns in AD models compared to controls, with increased levels in the precuneus and occipital cortex. However, significant changes in gene expression patterns were not detected in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, or posterior cingulate. Based on these results, we conclude that APP may be cleaved via the general metabolic mechanisms of increased α- and γ-secretase levels, and that hyperphosphorylation of tau could be mediated by elevated levels of tau protein kinase, specifically in the precuneus and occipital cortex.
Trianthema portulacastrum Linn. Displays Anti-Inflammatory Responses during Chemically Induced Rat Mammary Tumorigenesis through Simultaneous and Differential Regulation of NF-κB and Nrf2 Signaling Pathways
Authors: Mandal Animesh , Bishayee Anupam
Published: January 2015

Trianthema portulacastrum, a medicinal and dietary plant, has gained substantial importance due to its various pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic activities. We have recently reported that a characterized T. portulacastrum extract (TPE) affords a considerable chemoprevention of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced rat mammary tumorigenesis though the underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. The objective of this study was to investigate anti-inflammatory mechanisms of TPE during DMBA mammary carcinogenesis in rats by monitoring cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Mammary tumors were harvested from our previous study in which TPE (50–200 mg/kg) was found to inhibit mammary tumorigenesis in a dose-response manner. The expressions of intratumor COX-2, HSP90, NF-κB, inhibitory kappaB-alpha (IκBα) and Nrf2 were determined by immunohistochemistry. TPE downregulated the expression of COX-2 and HSP90, blocked the degradation of IκBα, hampered the translocation of NF-κB from cytosol to nucleus and upregulated the expression and nuclear translocation of Nrf2 during DMBA mammary carcinogenesis. These results in conjunction with our previous findings suggest that TPE prevents DMBA-induced breast neoplasia by anti-inflammatory mechanisms mediated through simultaneous and differential modulation of two interconnected molecular circuits, namely NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways.
Promoter Hypermethylation of Tumour Suppressor Genes as Potential Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ng Jennifer , Yu Jun
Published: January 2015

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy and the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. It results from the accumulation of multiple genetic and epigenetic changes leading to the transformation of colon epithelial cells into invasive adenocarcinomas. In CRC, epigenetic changes, in particular promoter CpG island methylation, occur more frequently than genetic mutations. Hypermethylation contributes to carcinogenesis by inducing transcriptional silencing or downregulation of tumour suppressor genes and currently, over 600 candidate hypermethylated genes have been identified. Over the past decade, a deeper understanding of epigenetics coupled with technological advances have hinted at the potential of translating benchtop research into biomarkers for clinical use. DNA methylation represents one of the largest bodies of literature in epigenetics, and hence has the highest potential for minimally invasive biomarker development. Most progress has been made in the development of diagnostic markers and there are currently two, one stool-based and one blood-based, biomarkers that are commercially available for diagnostics. Prognostic and predictive methylation markers are still at their infantile stages.
Programmable Electrowetting with Channels and Droplets
Authors: Banerjee Ananda , Noh Joo , Liu Yuguang , Rack Philip , Papautsky Ian
Published: January 2015

In this work, we demonstrate continuous and discrete functions in a digital microfluidic platform in a programmed manner. Digital microfluidics is gaining popularity in biological and biomedical applications due to its ability to manipulate discrete droplet volumes (nL–pL), which significantly reduces the need for a costly and precious biological and physiological sample volume and, thus, diagnostic time. Despite the importance of discrete droplet volume handling, the ability of continuous microfluidics to process larger sample volumes at a higher throughput cannot be easily reproduced by merely using droplets. To bridge this gap, in this work, parallel channels are formed and programmed to split into multiple droplets, while droplets are programmed to be split from one channel, transferred and merged into another channel. This programmable handling of channels and droplets combines the continuous and digital paradigms of microfluidics, showing the potential for a wider range of microfluidic functions to enable applications ranging from clinical diagnostics in resource-limited environments, to rapid system prototyping, to high throughput pharmaceutical applications.
Electron Transfer-Induced Coupling of Haloarenes to Styrenes and 1,1-Diphenylethenes Triggered by Diketopiperazines and Potassium tert-Butoxide
Authors: Doni Eswararao , Zhou Shengze , Murphy John
Published: January 2015

The coupling of haloarenes to styrenes and 1,1-diarylethenes has been achieved with potassium tert-butoxide in the presence of N,N'-dialkyldiketopiperazines. In contrast to previously reported reactions where phenanthroline has been used to mediate the reactions, the use of diketopiperazines can lead to either 1,1,2-triarylethenes or 1,1,2-triarylethanes, depending on the conditions used.
A Redox-Controllable Molecular Switch Based on Weak Recognition of BPX26C6 at a Diphenylurea Station
Authors: Chang Jia-Cheng , Lai Chien-Chen , Chiu Sheng-Hsien
Published: January 2015

The Na+ ion–assisted recognition of urea derivatives by BPX26C6 has allowed the construction of a redox-controllable [2]rotaxane-type molecular switch based on two originally very weakly interacting host/guest systems. Using NOBF4 to oxidize the triarylamine terminus into a corresponding radical cation attracted the macrocyclic component toward its adjacent carbamate station; subsequent addition of Zn powder moved the macrocyclic component back to its urea station.
Pressure Sensor via Optical Detection Based on a 1D Spin Transition Coordination Polymer
Authors: Jureschi Cătălin , Linares Jorge , Rotaru Aurelian , Ritti Marie , Parlier Michel , Dîrtu Marinela , Wolff Mariusz , Garcia Yann
Published: January 2015

We have investigated the suitability of using the 1D spin crossover coordination polymer [Fe(4-(2’-hydroxyethyl)-1,2,4-triazole)3]I2∙H2O, known to crossover around room temperature, as a pressure sensor via optical detection using various contact pressures up to 250 MPa. A dramatic persistent colour change is observed. The experimental data, obtained by calorimetric and Mössbauer measurements, have been used for a theoretical analysis, in the framework of the Ising-like model, of the thermal and pressure induced spin state switching. The pressure (P)-temperature (T) phase diagram calculated for this compound has been used to obtain the P-T bistability region.
Macroecological Patterns of Resilience Inferred from a Multinational, Synchronized Experiment
Authors: Baho Didier , Tavşanoğlu Ülkü , Šorf Michal , Stefanidis Kostantinos , Drakare Stina , Scharfenberger Ulrike , Agasild Helen , Beklioğlu Meryem , Hejzlar Josef , Adrian Rita , Papastergiadou Eva , Zingel Priit , Søndergaard Martin , Jeppesen Erik , Angeler David
Published: January 2015

The likelihood of an ecological system to undergo undesired regime shifts is expected to increase as climate change effects unfold. To understand how regional climate settings can affect resilience; i.e., the ability of an ecosystem to tolerate disturbances without changing its original structure and processes, we used a synchronized mesocosm experiment (representative of shallow lakes) along a latitudinal gradient. We manipulated nutrient concentrations and water levels in a synchronized mesocosm experiment in different climate zones across Europe involving Sweden, Estonia, Germany, the Czech Republic, Turkey and Greece. We assessed attributes of zooplankton communities that might contribute to resilience under different ecological configurations. We assessed four indicator of relative ecological resilience (cross-scale, within-scale structures, aggregation length and gap size) of zooplankton communities, inferred from discontinuity analysis. Similar resilience attributes were found across experimental treatments and countries, except Greece, which experienced severe drought conditions during the experiment. These conditions apparently led to a lower relative resilience in the Greek mesocosms. Our results indicate that zooplankton community resilience in shallow lakes is marginally affected by water level and the studied nutrient range unless extreme drought occurs. In practice, this means that drought mitigation could be especially challenging in semi-arid countries in the future.
Soil Warming Elevates the Abundance of Collembola in the Songnen Plain of China
Authors: Yan Xiumin , Ni Zhen , Chang Liang , Wang Kehong , Wu Donghui
Published: January 2015

The effect of soil warming and precipitation control in the context of soil warming on Collembola community was studied in Songnen grassland, China. Treatments included (1) control; (2) soil warming; (3) soil warming with low precipitation; and (4) soil warming with high precipitation. The open top chambers were used to increase the soil temperature, and the low and high precipitation were created by covering 30% of the chamber and artificial addition after rainfall through the three-year long field experiment. Soil samples were taken and collembolans were extracted in the 15th in June, August and October from 2010 to 2012. Abundance of total Collembola and dominant morphospecies Orchesellides sp.1 was significantly increased by soil warming. Total Collembola abundance was not affected by the precipitation. However, the abundance of Mesaphorura sp.1 was significantly increased by warming with low precipitation treatment. Collembola species richness, diversity and evenness were not impacted by any treatment through all the sampling times. These results suggest that more attention should be paid to the Collembola community variation under global warming in the future.
Land Application-Based Olive Mill Wastewater Μanagement
Authors: Kapellakis Iosif , Tzanakakis Vasileios , Angelakis Andreas
Published: January 2015

Land application of olive mill wastewater (OMW) is considered a promising low-cost practice for olive-oil producing countries. The objectives of this work were to investigate: (i) OMW treatment potential of a land treatment system (LTS), planted with a E. camaldulensis species, regarding N, P, C, and phenols; (ii) the effects of OMW on chemical properties of soil and soil solution characteristics; and (iii) the performance of E. camaldulensis in terms of biomass production and N and P recovery. E. camaldulensis received OMW for two growing seasons at rates based on maximum organic loading. These rates were almost equivalent to the reference evapotranspiration of the area. Soil solution and soil samples were collected from three different depths (15, 30 and 60 cm) at specified time intervals. -Also, samples of plant tissues were collected at the end of application periods. OMW land application resulted in significant reduction in inorganic and organic constituents of OMW. At 15 cm of soil profile, the average removal of COD, TKN, NH4+-N, TP, In-P, and total phenols approached 93%, 86%, 70%, 86%, 82%, and 85%, respectively, while an increase in soil depth (30 and 60 cm) did not improve significantly treatment efficiency. Furthermore, OMW increased soil organic matter (SOM), total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), and available P, particularly in the upper soil layer. In contrast, low inorganic N content was observed in the soil throughout the study period caused probably by increased competition among soil microorganisms induced by the organic substrate supply and high C/N ratio. Also, electrical conductivity (EC) and SAR increased by OMW addition, but at levels that may do not pose severe risk for soil texture. Enhancement of soil fertility due to OMW application sustained eucalyptus trees and provided remarkable biomass yield. In conclusion, land application of OMW has a great potential for organic matter and phenol assimilation and can be effectively used for OMW detoxification.
INFLUENCE OF METAL CORD WASTE CONTENT ON THE PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE / METALINIO KORDO ATLIEKOS KIEKIO POVEIKIS BETONO SAVYBĖMS
Authors: Pranckevičiūtė Gina , Nagrockienė Džigita
Published: January 2015

Concrete is the most widely used building material, which received hardening of mixture prepared from the coarse and fine aggregate, binding substance – cement and water. Cement and aggregate quality, v/c ratio of the mixture is determined by the uniformity of compacting properties of the concrete basic. Compressive strength of concrete is one of the most important properties of concrete. The paper examined a metal cord waste from recycled tires, effect on concrete properties, the optimal additive content was chosen. After the studies of the properties of the concrete with the different quantities of metal cord waste, it was determined that by increasing the amount of waste metal cord in the concrete the compressive strength of the specimens, density, predicted resistance to frost cycles increases, and absorption decreases.
Betonas – tai plačiausiai naudojama statybinė medžiaga, kuri gaunama sukietėjus mišiniui, paruoštam iš stambiųjų ir smulkiųjų užpildų, rišančiosios medžiagos – cemento ir vandens. Cemento užpildų kokybė ir savybės, v/c santykis, mišinio sutankinimo vienodumas lemia pagrindines betono savybes. Betono gniuždymo stipris yra viena iš svarbiausių betono savybių. Straipsnyje nagrinėjamas metalinio kordo atliekos, gautos iš perdirbtų padangų, kiekio poveikis betono savybėms, parenkamas optimalus metalinio kordo atliekos kiekis. Atlikus betono savybių tyrimus su skirtingais metalinio kordo atliekos kiekiais, nustatyta, kad betone didinant metalinio kordo atliekos kiekį didėja bandinių gniuždymo stipris, tankis, prognozuojamas atsparumas šalčiui, o vandens įmirkis mažėja.