bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity and Architecture of Pathological Prion Protein Assemblies: Time to Revisit the Molecular Basis of the Prion Replication Process?
Authors: Igel-Egalon Angélique , Bohl Jan , Moudjou Mohammed , Herzog Laetitia , Reine Fabienne , Rezaei Human , Béringue Vincent
Published: May 2019

Prions are proteinaceous infectious agents responsible for a range of neurodegenerative diseases in animals and humans. Prion particles are assemblies formed from a misfolded, β-sheet rich, aggregation-prone isoform (PrPSc) of the host-encoded cellular prion protein (PrPC). Prions replicate by recruiting and converting PrPC into PrPSc, by an autocatalytic process. PrPSc is a pleiomorphic protein as different conformations can dictate different disease phenotypes in the same host species. This is the basis of the strain phenomenon in prion diseases. Recent experimental evidence suggests further structural heterogeneity in PrPSc assemblies within specific prion populations and strains. Still, this diversity is rather seen as a size continuum of assemblies with the same core structure, while analysis of the available experimental data points to the existence of structurally distinct arrangements. The atomic structure of PrPSc has not been elucidated so far, making the prion replication process difficult to understand. All currently available models suggest that PrPSc assemblies exhibit a PrPSc subunit as core constituent, which was recently identified. This review summarizes our current knowledge on prion assembly heterogeneity down to the subunit level and will discuss its importance with regard to the current molecular principles of the prion replication process.
Treatment of Metastatic Disease through Natural Killer Cell Modulation by Infected Cell Vaccines
Authors: Niavarani Seyedeh Raheleh , Lawson Christine , Tai Lee-Hwa
Published: May 2019

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are a form of immunotherapy that release tumor antigens in the context of highly immunogenic viral signals following tumor-targeted infection and destruction. Emerging preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that this in situ vaccine effect is critical for successful viro-immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the application of OV as an infected cell vaccine (ICV) as one method of enhancing the potency and breadth of anti-tumoral immunity. We focus on understanding and manipulating the critical role of natural killer (NK) cells and their interactions with other immune cells to promote a clinical outcome. With a synergistic tumor killing and immune activating mechanism, ICVs represent a valuable new addition to the cancer fighting toolbox with the potential to treat malignant disease.
Combating Vaccine Hesitancy with Vaccine-Preventable Disease Familiarization: An Interview and Curriculum Intervention for College Students
Authors: Johnson Deborah K. , Mello Emily J. , Walker Trent D. , Hood Spencer J. , Jensen Jamie L. , Poole Brian D.
Published: May 2019

In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) listed vaccine hesitancy in its top ten threats to global health. Vaccine hesitancy is a “delay in acceptance or refusal to vaccinate despite availability of vaccination services”. Urban areas with large amounts of vaccine hesitancy are at risk for the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). Many vaccine-hesitant (VH) parents may be unfamiliar with the consequences of VPDs, and thus might be swayed when confronted with the symptoms and dangers of VPDs. As such, we sought to educate college students (future parents) in an urban vaccine-hesitant hotspot by assigning them to interview family or community members who had experienced a VPD. Student vaccine attitudes were assessed by surveys before and after the interviews. Vaccine-hesitant students who conducted a VPD interview but received no additional vaccine educational materials were significantly more likely (interaction term p < 0.001) to become pro-vaccine (PV) (68%) than students who conducted an autoimmune interview and received no additional educational materials. Additionally, students whose interviewees experienced intense physical suffering or physical limitations or students who were enrolled in a course with intensive VPD and vaccine curriculum had significantly increased vaccine attitudes. This suggests that introducing students to VPDs can decrease vaccine hesitancy.
Reduction of Fouling and Scaling by Calcium Ions on an UF Membrane Surface for an Enhanced Water Pre-Treatment
Authors: Prisciandaro Marina , Innocenzi Valentina , Tortora Francesco , Mazziotti di Celso Giuseppe
Published: May 2019

The control of fouling and scaling on heat and mass transfer surfaces is of major importance in processes as superficial water treatments, since it also improves the efficiency of the whole process from an energy saving point of view. The aim of the paper is to present the experimental results obtained in the inhibition of the fouling and scaling by calcium ions on an ultrafiltration membrane surface, by using citric acid as an additive. The last is an environmentally friendly additive−a so-called “green additive”, which may represent a reliable alternative to phosphorous and nitrogen based compounds typically used as inhibitors, since it has the characteristics of being non-toxic, non-bio accumulating, and biodegradable. The experimental plant is made of a tangential flow system on a lab scale equipped with a flat sheet ultrafiltration polymeric membrane, whose cut-off is 650 nm. In the first series of experiments, the effect of water hardness and its fouling effect due to calcium ions on membrane permeability has been measured in the range of potable waters. Then, the scaling effect of high calcium concentration in solution (supersaturated conditions) has been quantified by measuring the increase in weight of the membrane, with and without the addition of citric acid as an additive; moreover, the retarding effect of citric acid has been evaluated through the measurement of the induction times for the nucleation of calcium sulfate dihydrate (used as model scalant for fouling). Experiments have been carried out at two different supersaturation ratios (S = 2.25–2.60), at room temperature, in the absence of any additive, and with a citric acid concentration varying in the range 0.01 to 0.50 g/L. Experimental results have shown that the addition of citric acid in solution delays the induction times for gypsum crystals nucleation; moreover, it mitigates the phenomenon of membrane fouling and reduces the pressure drops by allowing an acceptable permeate flow for a longer duration.
Calibrating a Hydrological Model by Stratifying Frozen Ground Types and Seasons in a Cold Alpine Basin
Authors: Zhao Yi , Nan Zhuotong , Yu Wenjun , Zhang Ling
Published: May 2019

Frozen ground and precipitation seasonality may strongly affect hydrological processes in a cold alpine basin, but the calibration of a hydrological model rarely considers their impacts on model parameters, likely leading to considerable simulation biases. In this study, we conducted a case study in a typical alpine catchment, the Babao River basin, in Northwest China, using the distributed hydrology–soil–vegetation model (DHSVM), to investigate the impacts of frozen ground type and precipitation seasonality on model parameters. The sensitivity analysis identified seven sensitive parameters in the DHSVM, amid which soil model parameters are found sensitive to the frozen ground type and land cover/vegetation parameters sensitive to dry and wet seasons. A stratified calibration approach that considers the impacts on model parameters of frozen soil types and seasons was then proposed and implemented by the particle swarm optimization method. The results show that the proposed calibration approach can obviously improve simulation accuracy in modeling streamflow in the study basin. The seasonally stratified calibration has an advantage in controlling evapotranspiration and surface flow in rainy periods, while the spatially stratified calibration considering frozen soil type enhances the simulation of base flow. In a typical cold alpine area without sufficient measured parametric values, this approach can outperform conventional calibration approaches in providing more robust parameter values. The underestimation in the April streamflow also highlights the importance of improved physics in a hydrological model, without which the model calibration cannot fully compensate the gap.
A Quantitative Flood-Related Building Damage Evaluation Method Using Airborne LiDAR Data and 2-D Hydraulic Model
Authors: Shen Dingtao , Qian Tianlu , Chen Wenlong , Chi Yao , Wang Jiechen
Published: May 2019

The evaluation of building damage is of great significance for flood management. Chinese floodplains usually contain small- and medium-sized towns with many other scattered buildings. Detailed building information is usually scarce, making it difficult to evaluate flood damage. We developed an evaluation method for building damage by using airborne LiDAR data to obtain large-area, high-precision building information and digital elevation models (DEMs) for potentially affected areas. These data were then used to develop a two-dimensional (2-D) flood routing model. Next, flood loss rate curves were generated by fitting historical damage data to allow rapid evaluation of single-building losses. Finally, we conducted an empirical study based on the Gongshuangcha detention basin in China’s Dongting Lake region. The results showed that the use of airborne LiDAR data for flood-related building damage evaluation can improve the assessment accuracy and efficiency; this approach is especially suitable for rural areas where building information is scarce.
Response of Water Chemistry to Long-Term Human Activities in the Nested Catchments System of Subtropical Northeast India
Authors: Prokop Paweł , Wiejaczka Łukasz , Syiemlieh Hiambok Jones , Kozłowski Rafał
Published: May 2019

The subtropics within the monsoonal range are distinguished by intensive human activity, which affects stream water chemistry. This paper aims to determine spatio-temporal variations and flowpaths of stream water chemical elements in a long-term anthropogenically-modified landscape, as well as to verify whether the water chemistry of a subtropical elevated shield has distinct features compared to other headwater areas in the tropics. It was hypothesized that small catchments with homogenous environmental conditions could assist in investigating the changes in ions and trace metals in various populations and land uses. Numerous physico-chemical parameters were measured, including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), major ions, and trace metals. Chemical element concentrations were found to be low, with a total dissolved load (TDS) below 52 mg L−1. Statistical tests indicated an increase with significant differences in the chemical element concentration between sites and seasons along with increases of anthropogenic impact. Human influence was clearly visible in the case of cations (Ca2+, K+, Mg2+, Na+) and anions (Cl−, HCO3−, NO3−, SO42−), compared to trace metals. The order of most abundant metals Fe > Zn > Al > Sr was the same in springs and streams, regardless of population density, land use, and season. Principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrated that major ion concentrations in stream water followed the pattern forest < cultivated land < grassland < built-up area. Surface water chemistry of the subtropical elevated shield has mixed features of tropical and temperate zones. Low concentrations of chemical elements; small seasonal differences in headwater streams; and increased concentrations of NO3−, SO42−, DOC, and Zn in the wet monsoon season are similar to those observed in the tropics. The role of long-term cultivation without chemical fertilizers in ions supply to streams is less than in other headwater areas of the tropical zone. Strong control of water chemistry in densely populated built-up areas is analogous to both tropical and temperate regions. Population density or a built-up area may be used as a proxy for the reconstruction or prediction of the anthropogenic impact on stream water chemistry in similar subtropical elevated shields.
Copula-Based Research on the Multi-Objective Competition Mechanism in Cascade Reservoirs Optimal Operation
Authors: Zhao Menglong , Huang Shengzhi , Huang Qiang , Wang Hao , Leng Guoyong , Liu Siyuan , Wang Lu
Published: May 2019

Water resources systems are often characterized by multiple objectives. Typically, there is no single optimal solution which can simultaneously satisfy all the objectives but rather a set of technologically efficient non-inferior or Pareto optimal solutions exists. Another point regarding multi-objective optimization is that interdependence and contradictions are common among one or more objectives. Therefore, understanding the competition mechanism of the multiple objectives plays a significant role in achieving an optimal solution. This study examines cascade reservoirs in the Heihe River Basin of China, with a focus on exploring the multi-objective competition mechanism among irrigation water shortage, ecological water shortage and the power generation of cascade hydropower stations. Our results can be summarized as follows: (1) the three-dimensional and two-dimensional spatial distributions of a Pareto set reveal that these three objectives, that is, irrigation water shortage, ecological water shortage and power generation of cascade hydropower stations cannot reach the theoretical optimal solution at the same time, implying the existence of mutual restrictions; (2) to avoid subjectivity in choosing limited representative solutions from the Pareto set, the long series of non-inferior solutions are adopted to study the competition mechanism. The premise of sufficient optimization suggests a macro-rule of ‘one falls and another rises,’ that is, when one objective value is inferior, the other two objectives show stronger and superior correlation; (3) the joint copula function of two variables is firstly employed to explore the multi-objective competition mechanism in this study. It is found that the competition between power generation and the other objectives is minimal. Furthermore, the recommended annual average water shortage are 1492 × 104 m3 for irrigation and 4951 × 104 m3 for ecological, respectively. This study is expected to provide a foundation for selective preference of a Pareto set and insights for other multi-objective research.
Simplified Method for the Assessment of Siltation in Semiarid Reservoirs Using Satellite Imagery
Authors: Lopes José Wellington Batista , de Araújo José Carlos
Published: May 2019

The Brazilian semiarid region strongly depends on superficial reservoirs (one every 5 km 2 ) and hence is subject to the deleterious effects of siltation, which reduces water availability. This research proposed a method, simplified bathymetric surveying using remote sensing, for updating the morphological parameters of reservoirs. The study area was the Pentecoste reservoir (360 hm 3 ) in northeastern Brazil. The results were compared to the conventional bathymetric survey method, which demands more sampling points (235 compared to 1) and was assumed as reference. Siltation assessed through the proposed method was nearly twice as high as that observed through conventional surveys. The morphological parameters derived by both methods were used to assess the long-term water balance of the reservoir. The results show that the outflow diverged 30%, while the evaporated discharge and water availability diverged 10% between the methods. Therefore, in the conditions of the Brazilian semiarid region, the simplified method suffices to assess the water availability of reservoirs affected by silting.
Studies on the Kinetics of Doxazosin Degradation in Simulated Environmental Conditions and Selected Advanced Oxidation Processes
Authors: Karpinska Joanna , Sokol Aneta , Koldys Jolanta , Ratkiewicz Artur
Published: May 2019

The photochemical behavior of doxazosin (DOX) in simulated environmental conditions using natural waters taken from local rivers as a solvent was studied. The chemical characteristics of applied waters was done and a correlation analysis was used to explain the impact of individual parameters of matrix on the rate of the DOX degradation. It was stated that DOX is a photoliable compound in an aqueous environment. Its degradation is promoted by basic medium, presence of environmentally important ions such as Cl−, NO3−, SO42− and organic matter. The kinetics of DOX reactions with OH− and SO4− radicals were examined individually. The UV/H2O2, classical Fenton and photo-Fenton processes, were applied for the generation of hydroxyl radicals while the UV/VIS:Fe2(SO4)3:Na2SO2 system was employed for production of SO4− radicals. The obtained results pointed that photo-Fenton, as well as UV/VIS:Fe2(SO4)3:Na2SO2, are very reactive in ratio to DOX, leading to its complete degradation in a short time. A quantitative density functional theory (DFT) mechanistic study was carried out in order to explain the molecular mechanism of DOX degradation using the GAUSSIAN 09 program.
THEORY OF FORENSIC EXPERTOLOGY IN THE SYSTEM OF LAW
Authors: Klymenko Nina
Published: May 2019

The article deals with the concept of a general theory of forensic expertology, the conditions for its creation, the place of forensic expert science in the system of legal sciences, the limits of its subject matter, the issues of interaction and the relationship of the science of forensic science and forensic expertology. The system and structure of the general theory of forensic expertology and its tasks are given.

Separate articles of the Criminal Procedure, Civil Procedure, Administrative, Economic, Customs and Other Codes of Ukraine, the Law of Ukraine “On Forensic Expertise” of 1994 and the constitutional confirmation (article 92, paragraph 14 of the Constitution of Ukraine) of the legislative provision of forensic expertise are the further legal basis development of legal, organizational and managerial directions of forensic expertology.

Forensic expertology does not only preserves the “birthmarks” of forensic science, but also, in turn, influences the dialectics of the development of the subject of forensic science and the content of its scientific fields (forensic techniques, forensic tactics and forensic methos). In particular, it requires clarifying the well-established view of the unity of forensic techniques for the investigator and expert. The first is made to collect “trace information”, the second is used for its in-depth study based on special knowledge in order to turn it into evidence-based information. Different goals are provided with different means of content. It is more accurate to raise the question of interaction, the “docking” of two, although closely related, but independent branches of scientific and technical means serving justice.

The tasks of the general theory of forensic expertise (expert studies) are similar to the tasks of forensic science. They can be divided into general and special.

General task is the creation of a scientific base for the purpose of the functioning and development of the industry of the use of special knowledge in examinations for the needs of legal proceedings, assistance in the fight against crime and other offenses, resolution of civil law disputes.

Special task is the study of the laws of formation and development of specific types of forensic expertises, the expansion of their capabilities; development and improvement of expert technologies, tools, methods and techniques; the formation of the scientific foundations of new types of forensic expertises in connection with the emergence of new objects (computer, art history, etc.); developing expert crime prevention measures; development of an automated workplace software (AWS) for an expert of various types of research, study and implementation of advanced expert experience; forecasting expert practice processes and research tasks.

Specific tasks are the up-to-date tasks that the practice puts before so the science of expert science to meet the needs that have arisen.

Key words: forensic expertology, forensic expertise, legal science, theory.
ELECTRONIC CONCLUSION OF EXPERT IN CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS
Authors: Stolitnii A.
Published: May 2019

The article describes the current state and prospects of development of the expert opinion form in criminal proceedings and the communication of the latter with the participants of the proceedings, taking into account the modern information society, ways of improving this activity, including through the introduction of electronic procedural control.

It is proposed to create an information and telecommunication system based on the Register of Certified Judicial Experts, which will provide for the automated creation of experts’ conclusions in electronic format (on the basis of a template system, automation of mathematical calculations, system of control of terms of execution, etc.), exchange of procedural documents with the subjects of criminal proceedings. The article also proposes a full transition to the electronic format of communication between the expert (through the relevant expert institution) and the key specialized subjects: an investigator, a prosecutor, a lawyer, an investigating judge.

The task to be implemented is to transform the expert’s conclusion into an electronic format, in particular: a) to create a normative basis for involving an expert in the electronic segment of criminal proceedings by introducing amendments to the CPC of Ukraine, the Laws of Ukraine «On Forensic Examination», «On State Expertise of Land Management Documents», Instructions on the appointment and conducting of forensic examinations and expert studies and Scientific and methodological recommendations on the preparation and appointment of forensic examinations and experts research, etc .; b) creation on the basis of the Register of Certified Judicial Experts of the interactive right-realization environment (systems) for experts; c) improvement of the technical capabilities of the Unified Register of pre-trial investigations: the establishment of an interoperability system between the Unified Register of pre-trial investigations and the Advanced Register of Certified Judicial Experts, the Register of Methods for conducting forensic examinations, etc.; creation of the subsystem «Expertise» in the Unified Register of pre-trial investigations.

According to the results of the study, it is proposed to reconsider the approach to the expert’s form in the criminal proceedings by transforming it into an electronic format. For the execution of certain articles. 2 of the CPC of Ukraine, the tasks of criminal proceedings in order to ensure prompt investigation, the electronic format of the expert’s conclusion is relevant both in the part of creation, transmission and use, since by means of electronic communications can be sent from an expert institution to an investigator or prosecutor, provided to the party of protection in the order st.st. 221, 290 CPC of Ukraine, etc

Key words: criminal proceedings, expert opinion, electronic form, electronic control, communication.
PERCEPTION AND USE OF VERBAL AND NON-VERBAL INFORMATION WHEN CONDUCTING INVESTIGATIVE ACTIONS
Authors:   V. Tishchenko; O. Vashchuk
Published: May 2019

Non-verbal information is indicative. Most scientists believe that it can not be considered as a source of evidence and has only a tactical value. In general, we can agree with this, but the connection between non-verbal information and evidence exists that it is necessary to take into account and use in criminal proceedings. Non-verbal information may suggest where and what sources of evidence can be found (the corresponding human response to certain irritants from the investigator: logical arguments, presented objects or documents, evidence of accomplices, etc.); point to the attitude of a person to other participants in criminal proceedings, to the motives of the crime, etc. It can strengthen the evidentiary value of the testimony of a person or, conversely, enter into conflict with them.

Non-verbal information is an important component in the system of interpersonal communication and is closely connected with verbal information, forming a complex means of communication, significantly influencing the content, character, goals and results of investigative tactics.

Direct perception of non-verbal manifestations (appearance, non-verbal behaviour, manner of communication) along with linguistic (verbal) characteristics creates a certain image of the recipient and determines the range of tactical methods and psychological means of influence that will be most effective in this situation.

Proper decoding of non-verbal information should be based on the study of psychological and forensic literature. It would be desirable for criminalists and psychologists to jointly develop appropriate educational and methodical manuals, reference books, and for law enforcement agencies to introduce special courses on the basis of legal institutions to provide relevant knowledge and skills to practitioners in a comprehensive perception and use of verbal and non-verbal information.

Special attention in the study of non-verbal behaviour and other manifestations of non-verbal information should be paid to the methods of observation, analysis of verbal information and non-verbal manifestations in their comparison, as well as an emotional experiment to stimulate non-verbal behaviour.

It is advisable to use the results of studying non-verbal information in constructing tactics of investigative actions, psychological and forensic diagnostics of their participants, awareness of the circumstances of a crime, signs of giving false testimony. They may also influence the evaluation of evidence, increasing their strength or pointing out their possible fallacy.

In each case of an investigative action, it is necessary to consider whether it is advisable for a specialist psychologist to participate in it – a specialist in non-verbal information and its interpretation, as well as a joint analysis of such behaviour after the investigative action, which should be accompanied by video recording.

Key words: verbal information, non-verbal information, investigation (search) action, criminal proceedings, criminalistics.
USING THE TACTICAL METHODS OF INQUEST FOR THE CRIME PREVENTION
Authors: Tomin S.
Published: May 2019

The article elucidates the basic tactical methods of inquest, aimed at solving problems of the crime prevention. On the base of evaluation the norms of the current legislation and scientific works in the area of criminal process, criminalistics and juridic psychology, the features of the solution are investigated in the production of this investigative action such task as establishing the circumstances that facilitated the crime.

The author draws conclusions about the need for an integrated approach to understanding interrogation from the standpoint of the criminal process, criminalistics and legal psychology. This approach is about solving with the help of tactical methods of inquest the following tasks: to identify the circumstances that contributed to the commission of a criminal offense; to carry out individual preventive effects on the interrogated person in order to prevent him from committing crimes in the future.

At the present stage of development of the criminal process, both the above and other areas of crime prevention are not properly implemented in the practice of the preliminary investigation bodies, as well as the proper scientific research. The main reason for this is seen in the absence in the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine of an indication of crime prevention as the task of criminal proceedings in general and the bodies conducting criminal proceedings, in particular. Considering the above, the necessity of restoring the provisions regulating the duties of law enforcement agencies in solving the task of crime prevention in the process of investigation and judicial review of a criminal case is substantiated in the norms of the criminal procedure legislation of Ukraine.

Key words: prevention, interrogation, tactical receptions, causes and conditions of a crime, preventive and educational influence.
DETERMINATION OF THE PLACE OF SHOT
Authors: Molyboha N.
Published: May 2019

The article deals with the question of determining from what distance a shot was made from a firearm. After determining the distance, a sector is set in which the shooter was possibly located. The solution to this issue is carried out in several ways.

The most common method is to sight, the essence of which is to reproduce the line of flight of the projectile for the existing damage on the obstacles. To do this, take two distances from one another, formed by one projectile, or a blind damage with a deep bullet channel.

Establishing the distance at which the shot was fired makes it possible to determine a wider spectrum of detection of traces and other material evidence, such as shells, bullets, soot, oil, and other traces.

A preliminary trace analysis makes it possible to establish the mechanism of the crime committed, discard the version of whether the accident occurred, suicide or to confirm the version of the murder.

Key words: the place of shot, input-output hole, distance of shot, sighting.
FORENSIC INVESTIGATING OF SAWN SOFTWOOD
Authors:   A. Khokh; V. Zvyagintsev
Published: May 2019

Nowadays, one of the most important activity areas of state institution “Scientific and Practical Centre of The State Forensic Examination Committee of The Republic of Belarus” is plant objects research using dendrochronological analysis. Based on the most significant results were developed methodological recommendations on timber research using tree-ring method in forensic and botanical investigation, and automated workplace “DendroExp” to measure tree ring width. It is known that a dendroanalysis is of a great importance in investigation of offences connected with illegal forestry activity (thefts of wood, illegal forest cutting, frauds with timber, etc.) and also with negative human impact on plant origin objects. This method is based on the following principles: – the annual formation of a clearly visible annual layer in trees growing within the temperate and cold climate zones; – the strict individuality of the radial increment of each specific tree; – synchronous spatial and temporal variations in the width of annual layers in trees growing within a homogeneous according to climatic factors region. Using this method it is possible to determine the age of a tree, establish the time of its death or felling, find out life conditions, the belonging of individual elements of wood to a single tree, the sequence of damages inflicted to the tree, identify environmental conditions of growth, as well as to specify the territory where the investigated timber stand was growing. For the quality execution of dendrochronological expert investigations, special attention shall be given to the inspection of the locus of the accident, since there are the specific nuances in the inspection procedure in this case that require strict adherence when gathering the physical evidences. The article describes approaches to the execution of investigations of objects of plant origin requiring the use of dendroanalysis. It is substantiated that the range of problems solved with the help of this method is very diverse and extremely relevant. The authors believe that in view of the insufficient illumination of this problem in specialized forensic literature the article has practical significance and is of interest to expert biologists.

Key words: forensic research, coniferous timber, algorithm for solving expert problems.
La interculturalidad: aspecto indispensable para unas adecuadas relaciones entre distintas culturas. El caso entre “Yoris” y “Yoremes” del Centro Ceremonial de San Jerónimo de Mochicahui, El Fuerte, Sinaloa, México
Authors: Borboa Trasviña Marco A.
Published: May 2019

La interculturalidad es una necesidad obligada cuando dos o más grupos con culturas diferentes se encuentran, ya sea de manera hostil o amistosa. Es necesario conocer a los “otros” para entender y comprender muchos aspectos o elementos culturales que a primera vista pueden parecer negativos, inmorales o simplemente que no deben estar presentes. Es precisamente en ese contexto problemático donde se requiere de un diálogo que permita un entendimiento y una convivencia armónica donde no quepa el etnocentrismo, el prejuicio y la discriminación. Desafortunadamente es difícil lograr unas adecuadas relaciones interculturales y eso se demuestra en este trabajo al abordar esta teoría al caso de “Yoris” y “Yoremes” de la región de Mochicahui, El Fuerte, Sinaloa.
El programa moscamed en la región fronteriza México-Guatemala: algunos factores asociados a su evolución y permanencia
Authors: Méndez Espinoza José Arturo , Estrella Chulím Néstor , Ramírez Juárez Javier
Published: May 2019

El Programa Moscamed en México inició actividades en 1977, consecuencia de la detección de un adulto de esta plaga, que es una de las más devastadoras de la fruticultura a nivel mundial. En su operación se distinguen dos periodos: el primero en 1977-1982, caracterizado por el control y erradicación de la plaga; el segundo de 1985 a la fecha, caracterizado por la persistencia del programa en una fase de contención en la frontera México-Guatemala. El objetivo principal de esta investigación fue describir las características principales del Programa Moscamed, las variables que explican dichas características y las implicaciones en la fruticultura regional. El tipo de investigación es de carácter histórico-descriptivo; se utilizó básicamente un muestreo selectivo de informantes claves, y se aplicaron entrevistas estructuradas. Los resultados indican que el periodo de estudio se caracteriza por una presencia continua de brotes, encontrando en los años de 1992 a 1995 el mayor número de ellos; y una disminución de recursos asignados a las actividades del programa; el primer periodo presenta un promedio de 11.86 millones de dólares anuales, mientras el segundo periodo observa 5.25 millones de dólares. Se detectó en 26% de los productores entrevistados actitudes negativas hacia el programa; 93.3% manifestó desconocer los objetivos y beneficios de su presencia y 33% desconoce las actividades que realiza, lo cual permite explicar la indiferencia y baja participación de los productores en el programa. Las variables que explican la persistencia del programa en el periodo analizado son; la presencia de la plaga en Guatemala; los sistemas de producción de plantación que se practican en la región, la inmigración de trabajadores guatemaltecos que provienen de regiones infestadas y la disminución de recursos ya citada. La ausencia o baja prevalencia de la plaga en la región no ha originado efectos en la superficie ocupada por frutales y no existe influencia en el consumo de las especies frutícolas. En función de los resultados encontrados, es recomendable diseñar una campaña de difusión sobre los objetivos, actividades y beneficios del programa, así como una campaña de erradicación para Guatemala y Centroamérica y el incremento de los recursos asignados al programa
La participación ciudadana y su relación con el acceso a la información pública
Authors: Páez Álvarez Alfonso
Published: May 2019

Iniciar el proceso de participación ciudadana es, al mismo tiempo el comenzar a peregrinar un proceso de cambio cultural. Los grupos que en México y en Sinaloa impulsan este cambio —desde el Estado, desde las organizaciones religiosas, desde las empresas privadas, desde los organismos financieros internacionales o, incluso sin saberlo, desde las organizaciones no gubernamentales—, han ido tomando conciencia de la importancia y necesidad de hacer participar a las personas y a la sociedad, a la vez que los grupos y comunidades que han resistido el cambio impuesto, se han visto obligados a modificar sus prácticas y representaciones ante esta novedosa situación “global” que algunos han calificado como capitalismo informacional y que influye decididamente en la manera de cómo hacer participar a las personas. Así la información que desde hace poco tiempo se constituye como una prerrogativa jurídica se sitúa como un elemento fundamental para acrecentar los incipientes procesos de participación ciudadana. Frente a esto la modernidad cultural, científica, tecnológica, jurídica, económica e ideológica ha encontrado un posible antídoto: la información, la cual estructurada satisfactoriamente puede servir de incentivo para incorporar progresivamente a las personas en un proceso de responsabilidad y cooperación. Más aún, el contar con la posibilidad jurídica de acceder a la información pública allana el camino para obtenerla y utilizarla de la mejor forma posible para así incentivar la participación activa de las personas en los cada vez más desdibujados asuntos de interés público.
La interculturalidad en la Educación Superior en México
Authors: Sandoval Forero Eduardo Andrés , Guerra García Ernesto
Published: May 2019

En la última década, la creación de las universidades que brindan atención a los pueblos indígenas en México, ha resultado en una amplia gama de modalidades de instituciones; algunas no han tenido reconocimiento oficial, ni de los gobiernos, ni de las comunidades a las que atiende; otras han tenido un reconocimiento limitado y casi escondido; todas tienen orientaciones y apellidos diferentes: interculturales, multiculturales, indígenas, comunitarias, campesinas, o sociointerculturales, etc. y caracterizan a la complejidad del sistema educativo marginal superior actual, que abre posibilidades epistemológicas, ontológicas y educativas, pero que desde la perspectiva política expone un gran reto para el Estado. Debatir y reflexionar esa interculturalidad, es el propósito del presente artículo.
¿Cómo se construyen las identidades en la persona?
Authors: Bolaños Gordillo Luis Fernando
Published: May 2019

Este artículo realiza un análisis de los conceptos “multicultural”, “intercultural”, “multiculturalismo” e “interculturalismo”, desde una perspectiva gramatical y etimológica, y desde el contexto de los debates multi e interculturales, mostrando varias dimensiones y las diferenciaciones que se hacen a partir de esas dimensiones, así como el parentesco entre la red de términos. Asimismo, la indagación del sentido de estos se lleva a cabo a través de la definiciones que dan autores como Will Kimlycka, León Olivé, Mauricio Beuchot y Miguel A. Bartolomé, con el propósito de dar un punto de referencia para dirimir referencias y aclarar sentidos cuando se usan estos conceptos con pretensiones teóricas.
SOURCES OF INNOVATION ACTIVITY AS A FACTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Authors: BUCHINSKAIA Olga , STREMOUSOVA Elena
Published: May 2019

Purpose – the purpose of the study is to define the sources and restrictions of new industry development
based on the R&D -related factors of the countries studied; to show the conditions of inequality based on the existing
infrastructure, which are obstacles for achieving an advantage in technology.
Research methodology – the panel studies were conducted on four groups of countries divided by the level of GDP per
capita. High technology exports and charges for the use of the intellectual property were used as dependent variables.
Findings – as a result of the study, the factors that influenced the dependent variables in each of these groups of countries
were identified. The differences in the significance of factors are shown.
Research limitations – the limitations of the study are significant gaps in the time series for a number of countries.
They make it impossible to use such data in the econometric model. Some indicators are taken into account relatively
recently, which makes it impossible to consider long-term trends.
Practical implications – the results of the research should help the country decision-makers optimize measures to develop
domestic R&D and innovative production.
Originality/Value – the originality of the research is the study of country sets grouped by the level of GDP per capita.
The specifics of patents and trademarks influence on the innovative activity of countries with different income levels
are determined.
The influence of assets structure on financial performance in Croatian banking system
Authors: Lončar Iris , Svilokos Tonći
Published: May 2019

Purpose – as the largest share of national money assets is concentrated in banks, their profitability is important not only for shareholder but also for the whole economy. The aim of this paper is to analyse the influence of the structure of total assets and its liquidity on overall success in the Croatian banking industry.
Research methodology – in order to achieve the main purpose the cross-section regression models will be estimated which will include standard profitability indicators and various liquidity and assets indices.
Findings – the results of the analysis show that the level and the structure of total assets, as well as the level of its liquidity, significantly influence its profitability.
Research limitations – the analysis in this paper is limited to the influence of the asset side of the bank balance sheet in cross-section conditions. Therefore this research could be considered as a preliminary one and should be expanded by introducing the other indicators from liability in wider time horizons.
Practical implications – the results outlined in this paper could be practical guidelines for successful asset management which is prerequisite for achieving an adequate financial performance in the banking business.
Originality/Value – according to our knowledge, research of this phenomenon is very rare, so this is one of the first papers considering the impact of asset structure on bank performance for the Croatian banking system.
Internal model for insurers: possibilities and issues
Authors: Zariņa Ilze , Voronova Irina , Pettere Gaida
Published: May 2019

Purpose – solvency II framework regulates how much capital the European Union insurance companies must hold. The amount of necessary capital can be calculated using a standard formula or an internal model. On the basis of the review of other authors’ empirical research, the present paper aim at identifying factors that influence necessary capital and propos-ing necessary areas of improvement for the methodology of an internal capital model.
Research methodology – to conduct the paper, the authors have used the extended literature review. Analytical methods and comparative methods have been used for the Baltic non-life insurance market analysis.
Findings – the Baltic market does not use an internal model even for a major risk – premium and reserve risks. A review of the current literature findings shows that the main weakness of the standard formula is risk aggregation.
Research limitations – identified factors apply to non-life insurance companies under the Solvency II framework with a focus on reserve risk.
Practical implications – factors are identified that should be implemented in the internal model methodology. The paper will help avoid using internal models as only a modern risk management tool and improve risk profile accuracy.
Originality/Value – improvements of the internal model methodology are proposed based on a literature review. The au-thors have identified the main directions, issues and improvement possibilities for reaching modern risk management.
A demographic analysis of consumers’ preference for green products
Authors: Jibril Abdul Bashiru , Kwarteng Michael Adu , Chovancova Miloslava
Published: May 2019

Purpose – the aim of this research is to understand and present the outcomes of the strength of association
between consumers and the use of the green (herbal) product from a demographic viewpoint. By extension, it measures
the magnitude of dependents among demographic factors influencing the use of the green product in a developing country.
Research methodology – to evaluate consumer’s demographics on the use of the green (herbal) product, 207 participants
took part in the survey through a structured questionnaire. Data were obtained from users of green products (specifically
herbs) in Ghana. A nonparametric test precisely chi-square test (x2) and Spearman's correlation rs were employed for
our empirical analysis.
Findings – the paper indicated the youthful population as the highest number of users of the green product in the herbal
market. Results from the nonparametric test (Spearman’s rho) revealed that demographic factors (gender, age, education,
and occupation) have an inverse relationship on the use of the green product. Whiles the chi-square test also discloses
insignificant relationships among the observed attributes. This suggests that there is no empirical evidence to support
the claim that use of green product depends on demographic factors of consumers.
Research limitations – the limitation of this study considered the research scope, taking into account a smaller sample
size for the study hence, future researchers should expand the sample size as well the other demographic variables
necessary for a similar study.
Practical implications – the practical implication of this study gives insights to practitioners and marketers in the herbal
industry on how best they can progress in their quest to sustain in the business.
Originality/Value – the present study aided in widening the scope of consumer behaviour towards the green product in
the marketing discipline taken into consideration the widespread competition in the business nowadays especially in the
herbal (green product) market
E-entrepreneurship in EU countries: evolutions and challenges
Authors: Rusu Valentina Diana , Roman Angela
Published: May 2019

Purpose – the purpose of this paper is to identify how entrepreneurs from European Union (EU) use informational and communicational technologies in their business activities. We also try to identify the benefits and the
challenges arisen for the European entrepreneurs in using information technologies.
Research methodology – we analyze a sample of EU countries, by including them into two groups, according to the
stage of their economic development. As methods, we use the logical-constructive method and also comparative methods. We also use the benchmarking method in order to estimate country indicators in the sample and compare them.
Findings – the results of our study emphasize that e-entrepreneurship in developed countries is more advanced compared
to developing countries. There are also significant differences regarding the use of informational technologies between
types of firms by their size.
Research limitations – are given by the availability of data.
Practical implications – we emphasize that in order to support the development of E-entrepreneurship in the EU, government policies should pay more attention to the development of information technology infrastructure.
Originality/Value – comes from grouping the EU countries into two groups, according to their stage of economic development. And, comparing the two groups as regards the use of informational and communication technologies.
Keywords: information technology, e-entrepreneurship, e-business, innovation, EU countries