bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statement by the Managing Director on the Work Program of the Executive Board Executive Board Meeting
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

This Work Program (WP) translates the strategic directions and policy priorities laid out in the Fall 2017 Global Policy Agenda (GPA) and the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) Communiqué into an Executive Board agenda for the next twelve months, with a focus on the next six months.

The Managing Director’s GPA, fully supported by the IMFC, called on members to take advantage of the window of opportunity from the more favorable conjuncture to tackle key policy challenges by undertaking well-sequenced reforms to increase productivity, reduce policy uncertainty and future risks, and improve governance. Reforms should also aim to harness the benefits of technology and economic integration and ensure that their benefits are widely shared. Tackling challenges to the global economy continues to require cooperation and joint action across the membership.
Safeguards Assessment - 2017 Update
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

activity remained consistent with recent years. 21 assessments were completed during the update period (September 2015-April 2017) and five were in progress at the end of the period. Activity continues to average around 13 assessments per year. While the number of central banks under monitoring decreased slightly from 67 to 63, some monitoring cases required intense engagement due to safeguards challenges that emerged. These related to forensic investigations, governance reforms, and a deterioration in safeguards frameworks of central banks facing difficult external conditions.
A Window of Opportunity
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

The global recovery continues. Although it is not yet complete, the more favorable conjuncture
offers an opportunity to tackle key policy challenges to stave off medium-term downside risks,
rebuild buffers, and raise potential output. Countries should undertake well-sequenced reforms to
increase productivity, improve governance, and reduce policy uncertainty and future risks. Reforms
should also aim to harness the benefits of technology and economic integration and ensure that
they are widely shared. Tackling challenges to the global economy continues to require cooperation
and joint action across the membership. The Fund will assist members through tailored policy
advice and capacity development, and stands ready to provide financial assistance to support
adjustment programs.
The Role of the Fund in Governance Issues - Review of the Guidance Note - Preliminary Considerations
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

Following the request of the IMFC, this paper represents a first step in reassessing the Fund’s approach to tackling governance issues, the guidelines for which are contained in a 1997 Guidance Note. The paper examines the record of implementation of these guidelines in the period since the last such review was conducted in 2004, focusing on the handling of issues relating to corruption.
Collaboration Between Regional Financing Arrangements and the IMF
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

The Global Financial Safety Net (GFSN) has expanded considerably since 2008, including in the non-traditional elements of the safety net such as Regional Financing Arrangements (RFAs). The resulting multi-layered structure of the GFSN makes collaboration between its various elements more important than in the past. Specifically, stronger collaboration between the Fund and RFAs would help increase the effective firepower of the GFSN and ensure a timely deployment of resources. The Fund’s experience in macroeconomic adjustment and its universal risk pooling would combine with the greater regional knowledge and country ownership brought the RFA. In this way, improved collaboration between the Fund and RFAs, including in co-financing, would significantly reduce the risk of contagion by encouraging countries to seek early assistance from the Fund.

This paper is part of a broader set of proposals to fortify the GFSN (IMF, 2017b, c, d). It proposes both modalities for collaboration—across capacity development, surveillance, and lending—and some operational principles to help guide future co-lending between the Fund and the various RFAs. To date, the only operational guidance to facilitate collaboration has been limited to the high-level 2011 G20 Principles for Cooperation between the IMF and RFAs. Building on several case studies and the principles derived from them, this paper proposes an operational framework for future engagement. It aims to start a more structured dialogue between the Fund and individual RFAs on the modalities of how best to work together.
Statement by the Managing Director on the Work Program of the Executive Board - Executive Board Meeting - June 19, 2017
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

This Work Program (WP) translates the policy priorities and strategic directions laid out in the Spring 2017 Global Policy Agenda (GPA) and the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) Communiqué into an Executive Board agenda for the next twelve months. The Managing Director’s GPA, welcomed by the IMFC, called on members to continue using supportive policies based on a three-pronged approach to sustain the recovery, to work together within the multilateral framework toward strong and more balanced growth, and to provide economic opportunities for all. It outlined how the Fund would support the membership by promoting efforts to sustain the recovery, lift productivity and increase resilience, and by promoting sustainable policies toward a more inclusive global economy, while facilitating multilateral solutions to global challenges. Where the work extends beyond traditional areas, the WP will focus on macro-relevant issues that are systemically important or relevant for many countries and amenable to change through economic policies.
Social Safeguards and Program Design in PRGT and PSI-Supported Programs
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

The Fund provides considerable support to low-income countries (LICs). This includes concessional financing from the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust (PRGT), which currently carries an interest rate of zero percent. Since 2010, over half of Fund-supported arrangements have involved a PRGT facility. Support for poverty reduction is a core objective of arrangements supported by these facilities.

This paper examines how PRGT-supported programs safeguard spending on poor and vulnerable groups within the broader framework of promoting inclusive growth. In some cases, national poverty reduction programs seek to shift expenditures toward social programs in the context of generally higher spending supported by domestic revenue mobilization, grants, or debt financing. In other cases, the goal is to safeguard poor and vulnerable groups from fiscal adjustment and reform measures that could adversely affect them by adopting countervailing policy measures to strengthen social safety nets. In discussing social safeguards, this paper focuses on how and if these objectives are reflected satisfactorily in the design of PRGT and PSI-supported programs. The effectiveness of social spending in improving social outcomes, including by durably reducing poverty, is beyond the scope of the paper.
El efecto péndulo de la transición digital. Un estudio cualitativo sobre medios en euskera y en catalán
Authors: Álvarez Berastegi Amaia , Gurrutxaga Guillermo , Goikoetxea Udane
Published: August 2019

El proceso de digitalización de los medios puede dividirse en tres fases. En una primera etapa, que podríamos ubicar en el amplio recorrido desde 1995 hasta 2010, los medios impresos pasaron de transferir el contenido del papel a la web a comenzar a crear contenidos específicos para las ediciones digitales. A finales de esta primera fase asistimos ya a un desarrollo tecnológico significativo en el que las redes sociales y la interactividad se volvieron protagonistas del mundo digital. La segunda fase del periodismo digital se refiere al boom de la información y la inmediatez motivada por la erosión de los teléfonos móviles. En esta segunda etapa, que podríamos ubicar entre 2010 y 2015, la calidad periodística se redujo de manera sustancial: el desarrollo tecnológico, la crisis económica y la falta de fórmulas para monetizar los contenidos online fueron las principales causas. Este artículo, sin embargo, analiza unas pinceladas preliminares que apuntan al agotamiento de esta fase y al comienzo de una tercera en la que el periodismo reposado vuelve a adquirir un protagonismo central. En base a un estudio cualitativo de 24 entrevistas personales elaborado por la Universidad del País Vasco sobre seis medios en catalán (Ara, El Punt Avui y Vilaweb) y euskera (Berria, Argia y Goiena), esta investigación concluye que hoy en día existen indicios suficientes que anuncian una nueva fase del periodismo digital: la fase péndulo. Esta nueva era apunta a la recuperación de los principios periodísticos más tradicionales; el contraste, la veracidad y los temas propios.
El tratamiento informativo del caso Juana Rivas. Hacia una definición de violencia mediática
Authors: Bernal-Triviño Ana
Published: August 2019

El caso Juana Rivas ha supuesto un nuevo punto de referencia en la cobertura mediática de violencia de género. Durante el verano de 2017, los medios de comunicación se centraron en la historia de esta mujer y sus hijos. Las circunstancias y peculiaridades del caso derivaron en múltiples noticias y artículos de opinión enfrentados. Este análisis pretende analizar parte de estas informaciones a través de su repercusión en la red social Twitter, como canal de difusión y aprendizaje del ciberfeminismo. Las conclusiones desvelan que en varias circunstancias los medios incumplieron normas precisas legislativas y recomendaciones informativas sobre la violencia de género en España.
Un periodismo a otra velocidad: el libro como formato periodístico en la nueva generación de periodistas narrativos españoles
Authors: Cuartero Naranjo Antonio
Published: August 2019

El presente artículo propone un estudio del libro como formato periodístico a través del fenómeno del periodismo narrativo en España. El libro es un formato periodístico que en nuestro país ha tenido poca presencia y apenas ha despertado interés. Sin embargo, una serie de circunstancias recientes ha estimulado la producción y edición de este formato. Han nacido editoriales especializadas en la publicación de obras periodísticas y junto con el surgimiento de una nueva generación de autores periodísticos narrativos han provocado un entorno de gran efervescencia. Los datos obtenidos revelan las nuevas oportunidades que tienen los periodistas para buscar otras vías de publicación, la mínima presencia del libro electrónico, así como las razones específicas de por qué utilizan el libro para publicar periodismo. La discusión muestra como el libro puede ser un excelente soporte para el periodismo y los peligros e inconvenientes a los que se enfrenta, especialmente el de la financiación.
Análisis Crítico del Discurso: discriminación contra indígenas y afrodescendientes en la televisión ecuatoriana
Authors: Tutivén Ingrid Viviana Estrella , Moncayo Zambrano Karla , Cardoso Milanés Heriberto
Published: August 2019

Este trabajo nace de la preocupación de los integrantes del proyecto, por la no presencia de indígenas y afrodescendientes en los telediarios de la televisión ecuatoriana, así como por la percepción que tienen los representantes de estas razas por los estereotipos que les atribuyen, especialmente, en los programas cómicos. Todo esto, pese a que la Ley Orgánica de Comunicación prohíbe la discriminación, además es inclusiva y promueve la multiculturalidad y la plurinacionalidad en todos los niveles. La metodología utilizada para esta investigación fue el Análisis Crítico del Discurso de la Discriminación Percibida, basada en la taxonomía elaborada por el científico australiano David Mellor. Para ello, se entrevistó (con un cuestionario de preguntas abiertas) a una muestra no probabilística por conveniencia conformada por personas afrodescendientes e indígenas, de la ciudad de Guayaquil, Ecuador.
La representación de la mujer en la viñeta española: construcción y participación femenina
Authors: Hernández Herrera María
Published: August 2019

El auge del movimiento feminista en España tuvo lugar durante la transición, acontecimiento histórico que estuvo reflejado de alguna manera en las viñetas de los periódicos, sin embargo, la falocracia imperante hizo que sean los ilustradores masculinos los que representasen el papel que la mujer estaba desempeñando en ese momento, así se reconocen algunos autores importantes en la lucha por la igualdad de género, como Perich o Forges. El papel de la mujer, su imagen social, y el feminismo son representados en las viñetas desde el enfoque y la mirada del hombre, hecho que continúa vigente en la actualidad, donde los principales medios de difusión periodística españoles siguen contando con ilustradores masculinos, y no será hasta la expansión de las redes sociales cuando las mujeres empiecen a encontrar un espacio donde publicar sus ilustraciones, naciendo un subgénero que puede ser denominado como la “autovignette”, viñetas feministas con firma de mujer.
Discurso político de los medios de comunicación y hegemonía en la campaña electoral Ecuador 2017
Authors: Matute Zhuma Christel , Costales Zenaida
Published: August 2019

El discurso político de los medios de comunicación alcanza su más clara expresión en el tratamiento de los diferentes temas de la vida política de cualquier país, y en particular en momentos en que se llevan a cabo elecciones de las principales figuras del gobierno. La campaña Ecuador 2017 fue el escenario escogido para realizar un estudio del comportamiento mediático, como parte de un proyecto de investigación llevado a cabo por la Facultad de Comunicación de la Universidad de Guayaquil, durante el cual se evidenciaron diferentes estrategias discursivas del encuadre noticioso. Los resultados muestran un ejemplo más de cómo la prensa se convierte en un actor político, en la lucha por alcanzar la hegemonía sobre las conciencias populares.
Propuesta de un sistema participativo de producción comunicativa en la Radio Cubana
Authors: De la Noval Bautista Luis Alain
Published: August 2019

Este artículo propone un sistema de producción comunicativa, con un enfoque participativo, en la Radio Cubana. Expresa los principales referentes teóricos, principios rectores, objetivos, componentes constitutivos y etapas de producción radiofónica que sustentan la propuesta. Para ello se realizó un diagnóstico sobre la producción radial cubana en nueve emisoras de alcance nacional, provincial y local, a partir de una estrategia metodológica de corte cualitativo. Se emplearon como técnicas de investigación la revisión bibliográfica, el análisis documental, la entrevista en profundidad y grupos focales. Esta propuesta constitu una herramienta de consulta para las instancias que participan en la producción radiofónica comprometida con la construcción de ciudadanías activas y el cambio social. Además puede contribuir al diseño de políticas de comunicación en medios e incrementar los niveles de participación ciudadana en la radio, así como sienta las bases para futuros Programas de Educación para la Comunicación.
Entramado discursivo de los troles de Podemos en las redes sociales
Authors: Romero Tenorio José Manuel , Riccardi Davide , Buitrago Echeverry Carolina
Published: August 2019

Mediante una etnografía virtual en las redes sociales, se aborda la constitución de unos entramados discursivos que regulan las interacciones de los internautas en torno al partido político Podemos. Se aplicaron entrevistas y observaciones a los individuos que reaccionaron a los debates políticos en la televisión, en los que participaban miembros de este partido. Se analiza, principalmente, la incursión de los troles que dinamitan las dinámicas de los foros y las reacciones de los participantes. En el arco de esta transnarrativa que atraviesa diferentes plataformas (televisión, medios digitales), se identificaron los diferentes procesos de massmediación, entendidos como instantes de permeabilidad de los discursos en los individuos. Se cuestionó si la naturaleza no jerarquizada de los nuevos medios posibilitaba espacios de libertad. El análisis de los resultados dibuja un panorama desolador, en el que lejos de facilitar debates en el que se llegue a entendimientos racionales, los modos digitales de sociabilidad polarizan las inercias discursivas. Se concluye con una reflexión acerca de la necesidad de subvertir estas inercias por medio de la educación a lo imprevisible y a la pluralidad discursiva.
El temprano retiro de las presentadoras de telediarios en Colombia y España: el repudio a la vejez femenina
Authors: Vázquez-Miraz Pedro
Published: August 2019

La televisión actual, como un medio de comunicación de masas basado en la imagen pública, mantiene una serie de estereotipos sexuales que también son transmitidos en los telediarios informativos. En el siguiente artículo de investigación se introduce un estudio de género transcultural de corte descriptivo acerca las características físicas y la edad de las presentadoras de los noticieros de televisión más relevantes de Colombia y España, en función de la audiencia obtenida por este tipo de programas. Resultados y conclusiones: Las conclusiones más evidentes de este trabajo, es que en este específico contexto laboral, salvo contadas excepciones, la edad de las mujeres a diferencia de sus pares varones, no se asocia con una mayor credibilidad, rigurosidad o seriedad, siendo un claro elemento discriminatorio que asocia a la mujer con un simple complemento de indudable atractivo físico.
Impact of Teachers’ Gender and Self-Efficacy on End of Year Elementary Students Mathematics Assessments in Rural South Texas Schools
Authors: Gonzalez Kristina J. , Kupczynski Lori , Hall Kelly , Jones Don
Published: August 2019

The purposes of this study were to compare grade 3 math achievement based on gender of teacher and to investigate if teacher self-efficacy predicts grade 3 math achievement. This study was framed around the concept of teacher self-efficacy. An independent sample t-test revealed that teacher gender made a substantive difference in the outcome of students who met grade level standards for grade 3 2018 STAAR math. A bivariate linear regression showed that self-efficacy for teaching mathematics at the elementary level did not predict the proportion of students who met grade level standards for grade 3 2018 STAAR math. Results indicated that neither gender nor self-efficacy of rural south Texas elementary teachers significantly impact the proportions of students who met grade level standards.
Reasons for Leaving School and Alcohol Use Among Out of School Youth in South Africa
Authors: Desai Rachana , Mercken Liesbeth , Ruiter Rob , Schepers Jan , Reddy Priscilla
Published: August 2019

After students drop out of school, their alcohol use may vary according to the reason for dropping out. In this paper, out of school youth (OSY) are those between 13–20 years old, have not completed their schooling, and have not enrolled in secondary or high school for the current academic year. OSY are at heightened risk of alcohol use. This study examined the relationship between reasons for leaving school and alcohol use, taking into account gender differences. Survey data from 4222 OSY (mean age = 17.4 years, SD = 1.9; males = 59.4%) were analysed using ordinal regression. Leaving school for “not having enough money to pay for school fees” was associated with more alcohol consumption, among females living specifically in rural areas of Gauteng. However, in urban areas of Kwazulu Natal and Mpumalanga, females who left school for the same reason as their rural counterparts were less likely to consume alcohol in the past month. Males were more likely to consume higher levels of alcohol if they reported leaving school due to making someone pregnant, but only when they resided in peri-urban areas. Understanding the relationship between reasons for leaving school and alcohol use may give us insight into the profile of school dropouts at risk for alcohol use. This information is useful for intervention development across the school, home and community.
Congenital hypothyroidism: a five-year retrospective study at Children's University Hospital, Damascus, Syria
Authors: Saoud Mariam , Al-Fahoum Sahar , Kabalan Younes
Published: August 2019

Background: Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a treatable thyroid hormone deficiency that causes severe mental retardation and growth deficiency if not detected and treated early. The treatment of CH is simple, inexpensive, and effective. With early detection and treatment, infants usually develop normally without mental retardation and become productive members of society. In Syria, a screening program is not available, and there is no published information about the actual incidence of CH. However, an unpublished pilot study supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency showed that the incidence of CH in Syria is more than the global incidence, indicating the importance of the application of a CH screening program in Syria. Objectives: The present study aimed to collect baseline information about CH in Syria to estimate the potential need of a screening program. Materials and methods: This retrospective study was performed at Children's University Hospital, Damascus. The study included the medical records of patients who had CH as the final diagnosis between 2008 and 2012. Some patients were diagnosed elsewhere and were then admitted to the hospital within the same period. Results: In this study, 70 cases registered as CH, 67 of them had confirmed, 40 (57.1 %) were male and 30 (42.9%) were female. Among the patients, (51.4%, n = 36) involved parental consanguinity and 6 had a family history of hypothyroidism. Additionally, 74.3% were not diagnosed during the first month of life. The signs and symptoms most commonly detected were cretinoid face (60%), pallor (44.3%), delayed neuropsychomotor development (37.1%), growth failure (36.7%), jaundice (35.7%), and hypotonia (35.7%). Conclusion: A CH screening program is necessary in Syria owing to the low specificity of the signs and symptoms of CH, which can lead to delayed diagnosis, and the presence of asymptomatic cases (subclinical hypothyroidism).
Effect of Adapted Game-Aided Physical Education Program on the Motor Skills of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Longitudinal Case Study
Authors: Akın Sinan , Alp Hulusi
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study is to reveal the effect of long term adapted game aided physical education intervention programconducted on an individual with ASD and to conserve the achieved skills. The participant was fourteen years oldduring study and was fifteen years old when research was completed. The study took 15 months in total including 12months of implementation process and 3 months of interval before retention test conducted on the participant. TheShort Form of 2nd version of Bruininks-Oseretsky Motor Proficiency Test (BOT-2 SF) was used as a measuring set.Obtained data were evaluated graphically. According to the obtained data, we determined a development but BOT-2SF started in different periods in 8 sub-dimensions under the title of fine and gross motor skills. When permanencytest was obtained after an interval of 3 months for examined intervention program, it was clear that all skills exceptpower sub-dimension were conserved. There was a decrease in a certain amount only in power sub-dimension. In thelight of all these consequences, we can say that even though it is late, adapted intervention programs conducted onthe individuals with ASD affect motor skill levels positively and it can be said that this development will be effectivein increasing life quality of the individuals with ASD.
The Impact Psychological Empowerment in Achieving Job Satisfaction at the Police College, Qatar
Authors: AL-Hajri Khaled M. A. , Mishael Obeidat Abdallah
Published: August 2019

This study aims at discussing the impact of the psychological empowerment (in terms of sense of influence, freedom of choice, sense of capability and sense of importance) in achieving job satisfaction at the Police College of Qatar. To achieve this goal, the authors of the research adopted an analytical and descriptive approach based on a survey that they have designed and distributed to focus group of 186 employees, from which 173 respondents returned replies which were analyzed. The research concluded that there is an impact of the psychological empowerment with its various dimensions in achieving job satisfaction at the Police College of Qatar. Therefore the study recommends the adoption of methods and procedures that would enhance the employees’ involvement in the administrative and operational affairs relating to their duties and their activities, and working on generating and enhancing the feelings and ideas which would make them feel the importance of the job they are performing.
Morphological Changes in Sugarcane as a Function of Metallurgic Slag and Gypsum
Authors: Clemente Paulo R. A. , Almeida Benigno F. A. de , H. de A. B. Diogo , Silva André L. J. , Silva Vinicius S. G. da , Endres Laurício
Published: August 2019

Drought associated with soil acidity and exchangeable Al3+ in depth are one of the main limiting factors in agricultural production in Northeast Brazil. Acidity correctives such as limestone, metallurgy slag, and gypsum are alternatives to minimize the effects of seasonal droughts on the crop. A field study was carried out to evaluate the effect of the slag and gypsum on the morphological aspects and productivity of sugarcane during two crop cycles. A randomized block design in subdivided plots scheme with four replications was used. The plot consisted of five rows of 10 m length each, spaced 1 m from each other. Treatments consisted of five levels of metallurgy slag (0; 1; 2; 3 and 4 Mg ha-1) and two levels of gypsum (0 and 1.9 Mg ha-1). Slag and gypsum had no effect on sugarcane plant yield. However, regarding sugarcane ratoon, slag increased the yield per hectare by 1.96 Mg ha-1 and sugar yield by 0.33 Mg ha-1 per Mg of applied slag. Slag and gypsum provided better biomass allocation to the root system and improved root distribution along the soil profile.
Der Nachbarschaftsraum nach Artikel 8 EUV
Authors: Bachmann Theresa
Published: August 2019

How does the EU respond to its proximity to its neighbours? This study’s normative approach to the much-discussed issue of European neighbourhood relations analyses the potential Article 8 of the TEU holds for these special relations. Looking at Article 8 of the TEU as largely detached from the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) opens up a new perspective on the political concept of European neighbourhood relations. This norm analysis shows a neighbourhood area that is unique in the system of European external relations. Within this system, the ENP represents the status quo of neighbourhood relations. Using the Association Agreement with Ukraine as its basis, the study argues that in the current status quo the full potential of Art. 8 of the TEU has not been achieved.
Lastengleichheit in der grundgesetzlichen Wertordnung
Authors: Züllighoven Leila
Published: August 2019

While the ability-to-pay principle is widely accepted as the benchmark for fair taxation, German tax law is characterised by many exceptions to this standard. Notwithstanding some much-debated decisions by the Federal Constitutional Court on tax regulations, the constitutional requirements for unequal taxation are, at the same time, highly controversial. Basing this work on an analysis of the moral foundations of the German Constitution and the position of the principle of equality therein, the author suggests a new doctrine of equality. She pleads for the abandonment of the so-called ‘rule of consistency’ (Folgerichtigkeitsgebot), as upheld by the Federal Constitutional Court, in favour of transparent and consistently applied standards of equality.
Das Recht auf gesundheitliche Regulierung im Investitionsschiedsverfahrensrecht
Authors: Kirchbach Cornelia
Published: August 2019

Conflicts and tensions frequently arise between public regulatory interests and investment protection, especially in the area of global health law. Which requirements must a host state observe in order to avoid liability before an investment arbitration tribunal for violation of both the prohibition on expropriation and the fair and equitable treatment standard when introducing health regulations? This thesis examines the framework for national regulations under public international law, on the basis of the verdict in the Philip Morris v Uruguay case. In doing so, it examines the areas of worker protection, environmental health, alcohol consumption and food health exemplarily. The analysis concludes that restrictions on national leeway in this respect through regulations in the public interest are less intrusive than often assumed.
Neue elektronische Medien und Suchtverhalten
Authors: Evers-Wölk Michaela , Opielka Michael
Published: August 2019

New electronic media and addictive behavior are at the center of socio-political debate due to the overall increase in media usage and the decreasing age of media users. The understanding of what constitutes »normal« media usage is controversial, for example between generations, and leads to disputes and conflicts in families and also in educational institutions.
This study, now available in the second edition, focuses on scientific results regarding the extent and effects of addictive media usage. It refers to addictive online gaming and gambling, addictive online shopping, addictive social networking and online sex addiction. Considering the changes in our values and norms, the concerns and interests of stakeholders are evaluated and political options discussed.
Practical Application of Lineage-Specific Immunohistochemistry Markers: Transcription Factors (Sometimes) Behaving Badly
Authors: Kei Si , Adeyi Oyedele A.
Published: August 2019

Context.—

Transcription factors (TFs) are proteins that regulate gene expression and control RNA transcription from DNA. Lineage-specific TFs have increasingly been used by pathologists to determine tumor lineage, especially in the setting of metastatic tumors of unknown primary, among other uses. With experience gathered from its daily application and increasing pitfalls reported from immunohistochemical studies, these often-touted highly specific TFs are not as reliable as once thought.

Objectives.—

To summarize the established roles of many of the commonly used TFs in clinical practice and to discuss known and potential sources for error (eg, false-positivity from cross-reactivity, aberrant, and overlap “lineage-specific” expression) in their application and interpretation.

Data Sources.—

Literature review and the authors' personal practice experience were used. Several examples selected from the University Health Network (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) are illustrated.

Conclusions.—

The application of TF diagnostic immunohistochemistry has enabled pathologists to better assess the lineage/origin of primary and metastatic tumors. However, the awareness of potential pitfalls is essential to avoid misdiagnosis.
Grants and Acquisitions
Authors: Young Ann-Christe
Published: August 2019

Grants and Acquisitions
And the winners are … The official results of the 2001 ACRL elections
Authors: Reichel Mary , Spalding Helen H.
Published: August 2019

And the winners are … The official results of the 2001 ACRL elections
SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION: Public access to scientific information: Are 22,700 scientists wrong?
Authors: Case Mary M.
Published: August 2019

SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION: Public access to scientific information: Are 22,700 scientists wrong?
We’re looking for a few good men and women: ACRL seeks nominees for office
Authors: Library Association American
Published: August 2019

We’re looking for a few good men and women: ACRL seeks nominees for office
Annual Report 2002-2003
Authors: College & Research Libraries Association of
Published: August 2019

Annual Report 2002-2003
The ethics of patenting DNA
Authors: Reiss Michael J
Published: August 2019

Should DNA be patented? This paper argues that the patenting of DNA (whether of human or other origin) is in general acceptable and should be regulated by the same rules and practices as govern other patenting. However, patents on DNA sequences have been and are being granted too liberally.
Spinning off, cashing up and branching out: Commercialisation considerations for bioentrepreneurs in Australasia
Authors: Wells Nick , Coady Brendan , Inge Josephine
Published: August 2019

There are myriad issues to consider when commercialising a biotechnological innovation. In Australia, because of market structure, the tendency for biotechnology companies to list early in their life cycles has caused problems. A fledgling venture capital market in Australia has been partly to blame. The authors outline practical, strategic considerations for bioentrepreneurs in Australasia, focusing on innovations stemming from biomedical research.
Biotechnology education in Europe
Authors: Moses Vivian
Published: August 2019

This study was not intended as a catalogue, but as a comparative overview of the range of opportunities for education in biotechnology open to citizens in the various member states of the EU â€“ opportunities organised by governments and their agencies, by educational establishments, by a wide variety of organisations and institutions variously interested in informing/influencing public attitudes and, of course, by the media in its many forms. Switzerland was included because of its experience of a referendum on genetics and biotechnology as well as the USA, where it all started. A number of suggestions are made for improving public understanding of biotechnology and for establishing a code of best practice taking into account the cultural differences between countries. Perhaps the most important is that biotechnology education is a long-term issue requiring a long-term view; it should not be constrained by short-term funding.
Legal and regulatory update
Authors: Wilkinson John
Published: August 2019

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Patent issues and future trends in drug development
Authors: Kermani Faiz , Bonacossa Pietro
Published: August 2019

The global biopharmaceutical industry has been one of the most productive and profitable industrial sectors; however, the drug development process remains risky and expensive, with no guarantees of success. The industry believes that a system for the effective intellectual property protection is key to its ability to maintain innovation for drug development. But some critics think that the market exclusivity offered by patents simply allows companies to maximise profits without benefiting patients.Social issues such as patient access to new AIDS treatments and political issues such as international trade agreements mean that the manner in which pharmaceutical companies operate at a business level is becoming subject to closer scrutiny.
Legal and regulatory update: Voluntary withdrawal of marketing authorisations and consequences for parallel importers
Authors: Wilkinson John
Published: August 2019

When a reference marketing authorisation is withdrawn for reasons unconnected with the protection of health, as in cases C-15/01 and C-113/01, it is not acceptable that a parallel import licence granted there under should automatically terminate unless an actual risk to public health can be demonstrated.
A Curative Perspective on Down Syndrome
Authors: Rondal Jean A.
Published: August 2019

A curative perspective on Down syndrome is pointing out. Experimental work regarding chromosome correction and corrective action on genes and proteins is yielding positive results. They open the way to advances in dealing with aneuploidies and may end up markedly changing the life of the individuals affected with these conditions at the same time, several molecules are in the research pipeline of cognitive pharmacotherapy. The paper summarizes these advances and set them into perspective for the future of Down syndrome. Research on the effects of the amyloid cascade in the etiology of Alzheimer disease, which is more frequent in aging persons with Down syndrome, is also analyzed. Its potential for improving early diagnosis and paving the way for stabilizing the condition at least in the first stages is also discussed.
Neuropeptide B mediates female sexual receptivity in medaka fish, acting in a female-specific but reversible manner
Authors: Hiraki-Kajiyama Towako , Yamashita Junpei , Yokoyama Keiko , Kikuchi Yukiko , Nakajo Mikoto , Miyazoe Daichi , Nishiike Yuji , Ishikawa Kaito , Hosono Kohei , Kawabata-Sakata Yukika , Ansai Satoshi , Kinoshita Masato , Nagahama Yoshitaka , Okubo Kataaki
Published: August 2019

Male and female animals display innate sex-specific mating behaviors. In teleost fish, altering the adult sex steroid milieu can effectively reverse sex-typical mating behaviors, suggesting remarkable sexual lability of their brains as adults. In the teleost medaka, neuropeptide B (NPB) is expressed female-specifically in the brain nuclei implicated in mating behavior. Here, we demonstrate that NPB is a direct mediator of estrogen action on female mating behavior, acting in a female-specific but reversible manner. Analysis of regulatory mechanisms revealed that the female-specific expression of NPB is dependent on direct transcriptional activation by estrogen via an estrogen-responsive element and is reversed in response to changes in the adult sex steroid milieu. Behavioral studies of NPB knockouts revealed that female-specific NBP mediates female receptivity to male courtship. The female-specific NPB signaling identified herein is presumably a critical element of the neural circuitry underlying sexual dimorphism and lability of mating behaviors in teleosts.
Type-I myosins promote actin polymerization to drive membrane bending in endocytosis
Authors: Manenschijn Hetty E , Picco Andrea , Mund Markus , Rivier-Cordey Anne-Sophie , Ries Jonas , Kaksonen Marko
Published: August 2019

Clathrin-mediated endocytosis in budding yeast requires the formation of a dynamic actin network that produces the force to invaginate the plasma membrane against the intracellular turgor pressure. The type-I myosins Myo3 and Myo5 are important for endocytic membrane reshaping, but mechanistic details of their function remain scarce. Here, we studied the function of Myo3 and Myo5 during endocytosis using quantitative live-cell imaging and genetic perturbations. We show that the type-I myosins promote, in a dose-dependent way, the growth and expansion of the actin network, which controls the speed of membrane and coat internalization. We found that this myosin-activity is independent of the actin nucleation promoting activity of myosins, and cannot be compensated for by increasing actin nucleation. Our results suggest a new mechanism for type-I myosins to produce force by promoting actin filament polymerization.
Anosognosia for hemiplegia as a tripartite disconnection syndrome
Authors: Pacella Valentina , Foulon Chris , Jenkinson Paul M , Scandola Michele , Bertagnoli Sara , Avesani Renato , Fotopoulou Aikaterini , Moro Valentina , Thiebaut de Schotten Michel
Published: August 2019

The syndrome of Anosognosia for Hemiplegia (AHP) can provide unique insights into the neurocognitive processes of motor awareness. Yet, prior studies have only explored predominately discreet lesions. Using advanced structural neuroimaging methods in 174 patients with a right-hemisphere stroke, we were able to identify three neural systems that contribute to AHP, when disconnected or directly damaged: the (i) premotor loop (ii) limbic system, and (iii) ventral attentional network. Our results suggest that human motor awareness is contingent on the joint contribution of these three systems.
Tactile sensory channels over-ruled by frequency decoding system that utilizes spike pattern regardless of receptor type
Authors: Birznieks Ingvars , McIntyre Sarah , Nilsson Hanna Maria , Nagi Saad S , Macefield Vaughan G , Mahns David A , Vickery Richard M
Published: August 2019

The established view is that vibrotactile stimuli evoke two qualitatively distinctive cutaneous sensations, flutter (frequencies < 60 Hz) and vibratory hum (frequencies > 60 Hz), subserved by two distinct receptor types (Meissner’s and Pacinian corpuscle, respectively), which may engage different neural processing pathways or channels and fulfil quite different biological roles. In psychological and physiological literature, those two systems have been labelled as Pacinian and non-Pacinian channels. However, we present evidence that low-frequency spike trains in Pacinian afferents can readily induce a vibratory percept with the same low frequency attributes as sinusoidal stimuli of the same frequency, thus demonstrating a universal frequency decoding system. We achieved this using brief low-amplitude pulsatile mechanical stimuli to selectively activate Pacinian afferents. This indicates that spiking pattern, regardless of receptor type, determines vibrotactile frequency perception. This mechanism may underlie the constancy of vibrotactile frequency perception across different skin regions innervated by distinct afferent types.
A Myt1 family transcription factor defines neuronal fate by repressing non-neuronal genes
Authors: Lee Joo , Taylor Caitlin A , Barnes Kristopher M , Shen Ao , Stewart Emerson V , Chen Allison , Xiang Yang K , Bao Zhirong , Shen Kang
Published: August 2019

Cellular differentiation requires both activation of target cell transcriptional programs and repression of non-target cell programs. The Myt1 family of zinc finger transcription factors contributes to fibroblast to neuron reprogramming in vitro. Here, we show that ztf-11 (Zinc-finger Transcription Factor-11), the sole Caenorhabditis elegans Myt1 homolog, is required for neurogenesis in multiple neuronal lineages from previously differentiated epithelial cells, including a neuron generated by a developmental epithelial-to-neuronal transdifferentiation event. ztf-11 is exclusively expressed in all neuronal precursors with remarkable specificity at single-cell resolution. Loss of ztf-11 leads to upregulation of non-neuronal genes and reduced neurogenesis. Ectopic expression of ztf-11 in epidermal lineages is sufficient to produce additional neurons. ZTF-11 functions together with the MuvB corepressor complex to suppress the activation of non-neuronal genes in neurons. These results dovetail with the ability of Myt1l (Myt1-like) to drive neuronal transdifferentiation in vitro in vertebrate systems. Together, we identified an evolutionarily conserved mechanism to specify neuronal cell fate by repressing non-neuronal genes.
Silencing the alternative
Authors: Sivaramakrishnan Priya , Murray John Isaac
Published: August 2019

The transcription factor ztf-11 promotes neuronal differentiation by repressing other cell fates in the nematode worm C. elegans.
Psychoanalysis, Clinic and Context: Subjectivity, History and Autobiography
Authors: Beshara Robert K.
Published: August 2019

Structure was a key signifier, and a logical quilting point, informing Jacques Lacan’s return to Freud, which amounted to his reinvention of the unconscious as structured like a language. Lacan read, and reinvigorated, Sigmund Freud’s classic texts primarily through the lenses of Ferdinand de Saussure’s structural linguistics and Claude Lévi-Strauss’s structural anthropology—not mentioning Hegelianism (via Kojève), surrealism, and mathematics as other equally important lenses. The structure of subjectivity was the central question for both Freud and Lacan. While the former understood psychic structure in terms of topography, the latter explicated it through topology. What then of the structure of Ian Parker’s recently published book?
Genetic structure of two sympatric gudgeon fishes (Xenophysogobio boulengeriandX. nudicorpa) in the upper reaches of Yangtze River Basin
Authors: Dong Weiwei , Wang Dengqiang , Tian Huiwu , Pu Yan , Yu Lixiong , Duan Xinbin , Liu Shaoping , Chen Daqing
Published: August 2019

Background

Xenophysogobio boulengeriandX. nudicorpaare the only two species within the genusXenophysogobio(Cyprinidae, Cypriniformes), and both are endemic to the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. In recent years, due to human activities, the natural resources available to both species have declined sharply. Sympatric species with overlapping niches inevitably compete for their habitats, and genetic structure and diversity can reflect population history and their potential for adaptation to changing environments, which is useful for management decisions.

Methods

In the present study, microsatellite DNA and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) markers were used to investigate the patterns of population genetic structure forX. boulengeriandX. nudicorpa. Microsatellite DNA data, jointly with traditional summary statistics includingFSTandFis, were used to assess the population genetic structure by structure analysis. The mtDNA sequences were then used to examine these patterns through time to detect demographic history.

Results

Xenophysogobio boulengeriandX. nudicorpaexhibited high levels of genetic diversity in Yangtze River populations, except for two populations ofX. nudicorpain the Jinsha River, which were low in mtDNA diversity.X. boulengerishowed genetic homogeneity among populations, whereasX. nudicorpaappeared to have significant geographic genetic divergence. Both species experienced a late-Pleistocene sudden population expansion in Yangtze River populations, but not in the Jinsha River populations ofX. nudicorpa.

Discussion

The genetic homogeneity ofX. boulengeripopulations might result from similar population expansion events and environment features. The geographic genetic subdivision forX. nudicorpabetween the Jinsha and Yangtze Rivers might be caused by the geographic isolation in the middle Pliocene, as well as climate and environmental heterogeneity.
Effect of Fermentation on Antinutritional Factors and Functional Properties of Fermented Bambara Nut Flour
Authors: Ola O. I. , Opaleye S. O.
Published: August 2019

Bambara nut (Vigna subterrenean) is a cheap source of leguminous protein that can be a good substitute for relatively expensive animal protein to reduce malnutrition. Despite its potentials, it remains underutilized owing in part to long cooking time, presence of antinutritional factors and drudgery in dehulling. In this regard, this study determined effects of fermentation on antinutritional and functional properties of bambara nut flour.

Bambara nut was procured from local market in Abeokuta while pure culture of Rhizopus oligosporous was obtained at the Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology. Bambara nut was fermented for 12, 24, 36, 48, 60 and 72h at 32ºC and dried in oven (55ºC/24 h). The antinutritional (tannin, oxalate, phytate, and trypsin inhibitor) and functional properties (water-absorption-capacity, solubility and swelling power) of the composite flour were determined. The data obtained were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics and significance established at P=.05.

Respective range of values for tannin, oxalate, phytate and trypsin inhibitor were 0.08 - 0.32, 0.72 - 1.49, 0.15 - 3.64 and 0.42 - 3.25 mg/g, respectively. Water absorption capacity, solubility and swelling power ranged from 8.67 - 11.04, 52.59 - 53.07, 9.20 - 10.16 and 9.14 9.16%,  respectively. The fermentation process reduced the antinutritional factors and increased the protein content.