bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medial Auditory Thalamus Is Necessary for Expression of Auditory Trace Eyelid Conditioning
Authors: Hoffmann Loren C. , Zara S. James , DeLord Evan D. , Mauk Michael D.
Published: August 2018

Transforming a brief sensory event into a persistent neural response represents a mechanism for linking temporally disparate stimuli together to support learning. The cerebellum requires this type of persistent input during trace conditioning to engage associative plasticity and acquire adaptively timed conditioned responses (CRs). An initial step toward identifying the sites and mechanisms generating and transmitting persistent signals to the cerebellum is to identify the input pathway. The medial auditory thalamic nuclei (MATN) are the necessary and sufficient source of auditory input to the cerebellum for delay conditioning in rodents and a possible input to forebrain sites generating persistent signals. Using pharmacological and computational approaches, we test (1) whether the necessity of MATN during auditory eyelid conditioning is conserved across species, (2) whether the MATN are necessary for the expression of trace eyelid CRs, and if so, (3)whether this relates to the generation of persistent signals. We find that contralateral inactivation of MATN with muscimol largely abolished trace and delay CRs in male rabbits. Residual CRs were decreased in amplitude, but CR timing was unaffected. Results from large-scale cerebellar simulations are consistent with previous experimental demonstrations that silencing only CS-duration inputs does not abolish trace CRs, and instead affects their timing. Together, these results suggest that the MATN are a necessary component of both the direct auditory stimulus pathway to the cerebellum and the pathway generating task-essential persistent signals.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTPersistent activity is required for working memory-dependent tasks, such as trace conditioning, and represents a mechanism by which sensory information can be used over time for learning and cognition. This neuronal response entails the transformation of a discrete sensory-evoked response into a signal that extends beyond the stimulus event. Understanding the generation and transmission of this stimulus transformation requires identifying the input sources necessary for task-essential persistent signals. We report that the medial auditory thalamic nuclei are required for the expression of auditory trace conditioning and suggest that these nuclei are a component of the pathway-generating persistent signals. Our study provides a foundation for testing circuit-level mechanisms underlying persistent activity in a cerebellar learning model with identified inputs and well defined behavioral outputs.
The Adhesion-GPCR BAI1 Promotes Excitatory Synaptogenesis by Coordinating Bidirectional Trans-synaptic Signaling
Authors: Tu Yen-Kuei , Duman Joseph G. , Tolias Kimberley F.
Published: August 2018

Excitatory synapses are specialized cell–cell contacts located on actin-rich dendritic spines that mediate information flow and storage in the brain. The postsynaptic adhesion-G protein-coupled receptor (A-GPCR) BAI1 is a critical regulator of excitatory synaptogenesis, which functions in part by recruiting the Par3-Tiam1 polarity complex to spines, inducing local Rac1 GTPase activation and actin cytoskeletal remodeling. However, a detailed mechanistic understanding of how BAI1 controls synapse and spine development remains elusive. Here, we confirm that BAI1 is requiredin vivofor hippocampal spine development, and we identify three distinct signaling mechanisms mediating BAI1's prosynaptogenic functions. Usingin uteroelectroporation to sparsely knock down BAI1 expression in hippocampal pyramidal neurons, we show that BAI1 cell-autonomously promotes spinogenesis in the developing mouse brain. BAI1 appears to function as a receptor at synapses, as its extracellular N-terminal segment is required for both its prospinogenic and prosynaptogenic functions. Moreover, BAI1 activation with aStachel-derived peptide, which mimics a tethered agonist motif found in A-GPCRs, drives synaptic Rac1 activation and subsequent spine and synapse development. We also reveal, for the first time, a trans-synaptic function for BAI1, demonstrating in a mixed-culture assay that BAI1 induces the clustering of presynaptic vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (vGluT1) in contacting axons, indicative of presynaptic differentiation. Finally, we show that BAI1 forms a receptor complex with the synaptogenic cell-adhesion molecule Neuroligin-1 (NRLN1) and mediates NRLN1-dependent spine growth and synapse development. Together, these findings establish BAI1 as an essential postsynaptic A-GPCR that regulates excitatory synaptogenesis by coordinating bidirectional trans-synaptic signaling in cooperation with NRLN1.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAdhesion-G protein-coupled receptors are cell-adhesion receptors with important roles in nervous system development, function, and neuropsychiatric disorders. The postsynaptic adhesion-G protein-coupled receptor BAI1 is a critical regulator of dendritic spine and excitatory synapse development. However, the mechanism by which BAI1 controls these functions remains unclear. Our study identifies three distinct signaling paradigms for BAI1, demonstrating that it mediates forward, reverse, and lateral signaling in spines. Activation of BAI1 by aStachel-dependent mechanism induces local Rac1 activation and subsequent spinogenesis/synaptogenesis. BAI1 also signals trans-synaptically to promote presynaptic differentiation. Furthermore, BAI1 interacts with the postsynaptic cell-adhesion molecule Neuroligin-1 (NRLN1) and facilitates NRLN1-dependent spine growth and excitatory synaptogenesis. Thus, our findings establish BAI1 as a functional synaptogenic receptor that promotes presynaptic and postsynaptic development in cooperation with synaptic organizer NRLN1.
Self-purification ability of natural waters in the arid zones
Authors: Romanova Sofiya , Ryskaliyeva Roza , Ponomarenko Oksana
Published: August 2018

The paper presents the analysis of literature data and research results on self-purification and self-purification ability of natural waters at arid zones (on example of closed Lake Balkhash). The self-purification processes are a combination of all natural (hydrodynamic, chemical, microbiological and hydrobiological) processes in contaminated natural waters. A large number of pollutants and specific (physical and geographical) conditions of reservoirs causes the complexity and variety of cleaning processes of natural waters. Large amounts of pollutants discharged into water reservoirs and drains impede the self-purification processes. It has been established that the sediments and clay of Lake Balkhash absorb the metal ions. Thus, the process of absorption of Mn2+ ions by clay minerals mainly occurs within the first three hours of contact, whereas sorption by slits continues until 10-15 days. The sediments are good absorbents for cadmium (90%), zinc (86%) and copper (78%). The sorption properties in the dynamic mode decreases in the row of zeolite (SEC = 1.02·10-3), then Fe (OH)3 (SEC = 0.28·10-3) and Al (OH)3 (SEC = 0.10·10-3 mmol-eq/g) with respect to Mn+2 ion with concentrations from 5.0 to 100 μg/L.
Equal-channel angular extrusion of Al 5083 alloy with copper shielding
Authors: Varadala Ananda Babu , Gurugubelli Swami Naidu , Bandaru Sateesh
Published: August 2018

The microstructural homogeneity, hardness and tensile strength of aluminium alloy 5083, with and without copper shielding (CS), processed by equal-channel angular extrusion (ECAE) are investigated in this work. The two opposite longitudinal faces of the rectangular billets are shielded with copper sheets of various thicknesses (1·0, 1·5, 2·0 and 2·5 mm) and ECAE’d at room temperature in route A (no rotation of billet) up to four times. The required extrusion load is drastically reduced due to the smaller coefficient of friction between the CS and channels of the steel die. The shielded copper reduces the effect of the dead metal zone and microcracks and improves strain uniformity in the extruded alloy. The hardness and tensile strength of the extruded alloy with CS are increased extensively due to newly formed submicron-sized grains in the homogeneous structure. Also, the ductility of ECAE’d alloy with CS is higher compared to that of the alloy extruded without shielding. It is noticed that the increase in the thickness of CS does not have a noteworthy effect on the structural and mechanical behaviour of the extruded alloy.
Additive manufacturing and computed tomography of bio-inspired anchorage systems
Authors: Mallett S. D. , Matsumura S. , David Frost J.
Published: August 2018

Using additive manufacturing, computer-assisted models can be rapidly transformed into physical objects. When combined with X-ray imaging, minimally attenuating three-dimensional (3D) printed objects can allow for enhanced insight into soil processes, whether this is through the design of novel testing devices, prototypes or soil surrogates. In this study, this methodology is exploited to investigate the pullout mechanics of bio-inspired anchors. The purpose of this paper is twofold: (1) to demonstrate the value of the union of 3D printing and X-ray computed tomography (CT) technologies; and (2) to evaluate the effect of geometry on the pullout behaviour of plant root-inspired anchor elements. The results of the experimental investigations demonstrate how X-ray CT was used to effectively capture the evolution of soil behaviour during the uplift of three unique 3D printed prototypes. The analysis of the soil response was completed from both a global perspective, through an interpretation of the force–displacement data, and a local perspective, through an image correlation investigation of image sets at sequential displacement increments. The results provide insight into not only the means to design a more optimised anchor element, but also the efficacy of additive manufacturing-assisted X-ray tomography in investigating geotechnical problems.
Consolidation of stone-columns-reinforced soft soils under haversine cyclic loadings
Authors: Wang Guocai , Shi Li , Sha Ling , Xu Xiaobing , Zhang Yong , Xi Lingzhi
Published: August 2018

A rigorous semi-analytical method is proposed for the consolidation analysis of soft soils reinforced with stone columns, which is subjected to haversine cyclic loadings. The closed-form solutions of effective vertical stress, excess pore pressure, and average degree of consolidation are derived using Fourier harmonic analysis, where the effects of the smear and well resistance of stone columns on the consolidation behaviour are considered. From a numerical parametric study, it is indicated that the consolidation behaviour of the clay layer reinforced with stone columns is dependent on the physical and mechanical properties of soft soils and stone columns, and the applied cyclic loadings. The numerical results also show that an increase in number of loading cycles can cause the response of reinforced soft soil to achieve a steady state, whereas the frequency, the elastic modulus ratio, the permeability ratio, and the radius ratio of stone columns to soil influence the consolidation behaviour of soft clay reinforced with stone columns.
Impacto jurídico de las violencias contra mujeres víctimas de violencia de pareja o expareja
Authors: Ramos-Aranda Lina María , Jiménez-Torres Libia Andrea , Thola-Ospitia Yudy Yesenia
Published: August 2018

Introducción: las mujeres víctimas de violencia de pareja o expareja, valoradas en la Regional Sur del Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y Ciencias Forenses (INMLyCF), expresan su sentir durante la ruta de atención; algunas reconocen deserciones, intereses por minimizar la violencia intrafamiliar o los fundamentos de la denuncia. En la intervención jurídica se ofrece orientación respecto de sus derechos y se reconocen expectativas para restaurarlos.Metodología: el estudio es cuantitativo descriptivo, y mediante este se analizaron aspectos sociodemográficos tanto de la víctima como del presunto agresor. Los datos fueron recolectados mediante una entrevista semiestructurada y la aplicación de la Escala da (Danger Assesment) de Campbell, O’Sullivan, Roehl y Webster [1], citado en el Protocolo de valoración del riesgo de violencia mortal contra mujeres elaborado por el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y Ciencias Forenses de Colombia [2].Resultados: algunas usuarias desconocen los pasos de la ruta de atención a mujeres víctimas de violencia basada en género, pero logran clarificar su expectativa en la denuncia; el nivel de escolaridad en los presuntos victimarios es inversamente proporcional a la violencia; se citan algunos detonantes de los conflictos y se proponen terapias psicoeducativas a los presuntos agresores con orientación cognitivo-conductual, ofreciendo medidas restaurativas a las mujeres violentadas.Conclusiones: aunque desconocen la ruta de atención, al ingresar a ella, a través de la denuncia, la mayoría de las mujeres participantes del estudio la califican como buena; ellas proporcionaron información sociodemográfica que, combinada con los resultados, permite proponer mejoras en la atención, tales como las psicoterapias a los presuntos agresores, sustentadas en el pilotaje que generó hallazgos para una nueva visión en manejo de la población afectada.
Editorial
Authors: Mendoza-Suárez Jhonatan
Published: August 2018

En 2015, luego de más de una década de existencia, la revista Colombia Forense empezó un camino en busca de convertirse en un referente científico para la comunidad de las ciencias forenses y la medicina legal en Colombia e Hispanoamérica...
T cell isolation from mouse tissues v1
Authors: Anderson Kristin
Published: August 2018

This protocol outlines the steps for isolating murine T cells from mouse blood, ascites, spleen, and ID8 tumors. In brief: Spleens were disrupted by mechanical force through a 70mm filter (BD Falcon, ref: 352350) and red blood cells lysed using ACK lysis buffer (Gibco, cat: A1049201). Ovarian tumors were excised and normal adjacent tissue removed. Tumors were minced using a GentleMACS dissociator (Miltenyi), incubated for 10 minutes on a rotator (Miltenyi) at 37°C (medium spin setting), disrupted through a 70mm filter, washed with RPMI containing 5% FBS, and lymphocytes were purified on a 44/67% Percoll gradient (800xg at 23°C for 20 minutes; GE Healthcare, cat: 17-0891-01).
Vállalkozói hálózatok határok nélkül
Authors: Jóna György
Published: August 2018

Ebben a tanulmányban magyar, erdélyi, osztrák, lengyel és ukrán régió- és országhatárt átívelő koopetitív hálózatok területi jellemzőit, struktúráit és hatásait mutatom be. A koopetíció egy dinamikus, újszerű vállalatközi kapcsolatrendszer, melyben riválisok egyszerre versenyeznek és kooperálnak egymással. A tanulmány kiindulópontja szerint minden gazdasági hálózatnak van földrajzi kiterjedése, területi struktúrája, ezért a koopetitív hálózatok működése és hatásmechanizmusai területi aspektusból is vizsgálhatók. A hálózati modellben a csúcspontok a vállalkozások telephelyeit, az összekötő élek a vállalkozások közötti kapcsolatokat jelölik. A vizsgált hálózatokban a versenytársak együttműködnek a közös árubeszerzésben és -szállításban, ezért alacsonyabb egységáron vásárolhatják meg termékeiket. Az így realizált megtakarítást munkahelyteremtésre és jövedelemnövekedésre fordítják. Ebben a cikkben öt informálisan működő koopetitív hálózat területi sajátosságait mutatom be primer hálózati adatbázisok feldolgozásával. Az adatfelvétel során a hálózatok minden egyes szereplőjével (összesen 370 vállalkozóval) félig strukturált interjút készítettem, valamint kérdőíveket is kitöltettem velük. A primer hálózati adatbázis kvalitatív részét tartalomelemzéssel és longitudinális input-output szekvenciaelemzéssel, kvantitatív részét térhálózati elemzéssel és térökonometriai eljárásokkal dolgoztam fel. Az eredmények szerint a koopetitív hálózatok jelentős mértékben hozzájárulnak a lokális gazdasági fejlődés és növekedés dinamikájához, hiszen 257 új munkahely létrehozását, valamint infláción felüli jövedelemnövekedést (évente átlagosan 4-6%) lehetett finanszírozni a koopetitív megtakarításokból. Ugyanakkor a vizsgált koopetitív hálózatokban alacsony szintű bizalom mérhető. Mindegyik hálózat kerékagy és küllő struktúrájú, vagyis az integratív funkciót betöltő személyhez kapcsolódnak a szereplők, a cégek közötti közvetlen kapcsolat rendkívül ritka.
Belső udvarok mint közösségi terek
Authors: Jóna László
Published: August 2018

A tanulmány azt vizsgálja Győr példáján, hogy a belső udvarok használhatóak- e mint közterek. A világ népességének ugyanis egyre nagyobb része költözik a városokba, így a közterek szerepe a jövőben sokkal jelentősebb lesz. Bővítésük ugyanakkor kötött jellegükből adódóan nem könnyű, ami különösen igaz a történeti belvárosokra. Így az egyik lehetséges megoldás a belső udvaros épületek megnyitása a gyalogosok számára, melyek közterületként funkcionálhatnak a városi lakosság számára. A tanulmány elején bemutatom a közterek, majd a belső udvarok történetét, valamint szerepét egykor és napjainkban. Ezt követi Győr településmorfológiai elemzése, illetve két belső udvar gyalogosforgalmi vizsgálata. Az empirikus kutatás igazolta, hogy a győri belső udvarok jól működnek közterekként, melyeket nemcsak a turisták, de a helyi lakosok is szívesen felkeresnek. Mindkettő forgalmát jelentősen meghatározták az ott található utcabútorok, üzletek és a vendéglátóhelyek típusa. Ahhoz azonban, hogy más hasonló udvarok sikeresek legyenek, további kritériumoknak is meg kell felelniük, melyeket szintén ismertetek a tanulmányban.
Modeling of economic feasibility of transition to own power generation
Authors: Khovalova T. V.
Published: August 2018

Cross subsidizing in power industry is the mechanism allowing one groups of consumers to pay the electric power at the price below limit costs, at the same time for other groups of consumers establishing the price above limit costs. Similar price discrimination leads to that the industrial enterprises buying the electric power on raised tariffs, are compelled to look for cheaper alternative ways of power supply. In this connection the enterprises gradually make the decision on construction of own generating capacities. In this article it is investigated to pass how favorably to a question to the enterprises of various branches to own generation of the electric power at the developed and predicted price level on the electric power for the industrial enterprises taking into account cross subsidizing and on condition of its full reduction.
Global market of educational products in the it sphere: priorities for russian universities
Authors: Gitelman L. D. , Shabunin S. N. , Kozhevnikov M. V. , Gamburg A. V. , Aimasheva I. S. , Starikov E. M.
Published: August 2018

The article describes the key trends in education for the IT and radio electronics sectors, considers the comparative analysis of approaches to organization of scientific and educational activities in 30 foreign and domestic universities leading in subject ratings of QS Computer Science & Information Systems and Engineering – Electrical & Electronic. Characteristics of the trends are: • close and constantly increasing integration of educational and scientific fields of activity, which is reflected in the emergence of interdisciplinary educational programs, linking the educational process to research in breakthrough areas of knowledge and the formation of specific university ecosystems aimed at leadership in specific technologies; • the variety of forms of organization of the educational process, the orientation towards modularity, individuality and continuity, which are actively used in the promotion of educational services; • the general backlog of Russian universities from IT practice and expectations of the real sector. The research methodology included analysis of the content and models for the implementation of educational products, expert opinions on the requirements for the formation of IT professionals. As a result, disparities between current industry trends, the current situation in education and demands of the real sector were defined. In the context of the example of a number of master’s programs developed at the Institute of Radioelectronics and Information Technologies of the Ural Federal University, a mechanism for integrating science, education and consulting in order to develop highly-demanded interdisciplinary educational products has been demonstrated. The results of the research can be used by domestic and foreign universities working in IT-segments, to increase competitiveness and implement strategic scientific and educational initiatives.
Risk-oriented approach to ecological safety management at oil refinery
Authors: Fomenko G. A. , Komarov S. I. , Fomenko M. A. , Borodkin A. E. , Luzanova A. K.
Published: August 2018

The article considers place and role of the risk-oriented approach in environmental management at enterprises, describes mechanisms for use of risk assessment in environmental management processes and documents, tools for use of risk characteristics in development and implementation of programmes and plans for oil refineries.The study relevance is based on the need to improve the environmental management system of “Orsknefteorgsintez” in line with the plans to include risk-oriented approach in supervisory work, including state environmental supervision.The main goal of the work was development of approaches to risk-oriented environmental management at “Orsknefteorgsintez” based on the health risk assessment from environment pollution, followed by interpretation of gained data and appropriate management decisions.The research was conducted in two stages. The first stage included health risk levels determination resulted from air pollution by “Orsknefteorgsintez”. The results included hygienic studies of human health risk assessment from negative impact by “Orsknefteorgsintez” considering the implementation of the middle-term enterprise development program; and results of comparative analysis of human health risk levels prior to and after operational commissioning of reconstructed objects within the middle-term enterprise development program. The recommendation on human health risk management from the “Orsknefteorgsintez” production facilities (including control and monitoring) are based on the results of the first stage.Risk-oriented improves environmental management systems at enterprises, helps in interactions with government bodies, enhances management decisions in line with environmental legislation and increases environmental-economic investment efficiency.
Integration of the evaluation institute's instruments into the procedures for justifying the initial (maximum) price of the contract in the procurement activities
Authors: Bakulina A. A. , Rovbel R. L.
Published: August 2018

Analysis of the legal and economic support of the public procurement system and the functions of control and monitoring procedures in the modern model of public procurement in the Russian Federation is an important issue in the region of competition. The main innovations and weaknesses in the regulations and results of control procedures at the planning, placement, evaluation and control stages were identified. Conclusions and recommendations on improving the effectiveness of the public procurement control system in Russia are developed through the integration of modern valuation tools and the inclusion of control measures in the process, the formation of experts' conclusions regarding the justification and confirmation of the cost characteristics of the contract in government procurement and procurement of state corporations. The specifics of the institutionalization of control processes in the mechanism of public procurement are considered.The theoretical and practical principles of improving the system of control over public procurement in Russia are studied. The approach to the formation of proposals on additional regulation of control procedures in the contract system is formulated with the aim of providing a qualitative effect on procurement processes.
The effects of the introduction of smart grids
Authors: Hovalova T. V. , Zholnerchik S. S.
Published: August 2018

Digitalization of the economy is one of the priorities of the Long-term development strategy of the Russian Federation. One of the key components of the digital economy is Smart grids. This study aims to identify and systematize the technological, economic and other effects of the introduction of intelligent energy networks. The sources of these effects can either be a transition to digital management in the electricity industry, or a change in the behavior patterns of consumer companies, business practices of energy supply and service companies.
STRATEGIC IMPERATIVES UNDER ACCELERATED POSTINDUSTRIAL TRANSFORMATIONS
Authors: Volkova L. I. , Lanskaya D. V.
Published: August 2018

The deep technological changes, update the key competences of the human factor, the related organizational and institutional changes represent the change way of economic life, resulting in the emergence of new functions of strategy development process, the study of which is repelled by the results of the development of the basic functions of strategic management, as well as takes into account the problems and contradictions of the development of regional economies, as disclosed in the current scientific literature. The article deals with the problems of strategy development of regional economic systems in the conditions of the acceleration of postindustrial transformation. The article highlights the imperatives behind switching to strategic planning and management at the regional and local levels in the market. Presented regional strategy neoindustrialization as the quintessence of regional policy for one of the regions of the country – Krasnodar region. The strengths and the weaknesses of the regional economy were analyzed and identified, some problems that prevent the region from reaching a new stage of development, offered ways of their solution.
POSSIBILITY OF INNOVATION INDUSTRIAL POLICY WITHIN THE RUSSIAN NORTH-WEST
Authors: Demerchi V. V. , Vorobyev V. P.
Published: August 2018

The article assesses the nature of industrial development within the North-West Federal District of Russia, to formulate proposals for solving the problems of modernization of the regional economy.
MANAGEMENT OF THE STRATEGY OF BUSINESS OF THE ORGANIZATION ON THE BASIS OF MODEL OF LIFE CYCLE OF J. GARDNER
Authors: Tebekin A. V.
Published: August 2018

In the system of methods of management on the basis of technologies of organizational management methods on the basis of models of management of life cycle of the organization are considered. On the basis of model of life cycle of the organization of J. Gardner the problems and the prospects of management of the strategy of business of the organization in national economy caused by the current cyclic recession of macroeconomic activity, which minimum caused by change of the V technological way by the VI are considered.
The workforce planning system of the organization
Authors: Kudryashov V. S.
Published: August 2018

The Relevance of the research topic is due to a number of factors: first, at the present stage of development, in the context of increasing competition, companies are in constant search of sustainable and difficult to replicate sources of competitive advantage; secondly, since the second half of the twentieth century, not only in theory but also in practice of management of most organizations recognized the existence of a relationship between the effectiveness of the organization and the effectiveness of its personnel policy (and personnel planning as one of its areas, including). Initially, the purpose of this direction was, first of all, to meet the needs of human resources - the production and economic needs of "employers" in the qualified personnel necessary for the most effective and efficient functioning of the organization, and only then the socio - economic interests of "workers". Today it "extends" practically to all spheres of personnel management. Despite the recognition of marked dependence and the role of personnel planning in enhancing organizational effectiveness, for most organizations it does not become a management norm, and if it is, it is not integrated into the overall business strategy, as opposed to, for example, from production planning, product sales, investments into development and so the Current situation is not just "assumes" and "requires" practical changes in relation to, the formulation and implementation of personnel policies and direction of its improvement.
Model of obtaining competitive advantages by the companies of the restaurant industry in the russian market
Authors: Maari K. Zh.
Published: August 2018

The article presents the main results of research study, the purpose of which was to identify the main competitive advantages of the companies of Russian restaurant industry. Speaking about the state of the restaurant business market in Russia today, it should be noted that the market of services depends on the overall economic performance of the country. Creation and development of competitive advantages will help the restaurant not to lose its market share.
The balance between resource development and environmental protection is “Social Contracting”: The case of LAPSSET project in Kenya
Authors: Onditi 1 Francis
Published: August 2018

The LAPSSET project is a mega undertaking with heavy investment. Like any other public infrastructure depends entirely on fund availability and proactive involvement of respective governments, particularly Kenya, given its role as the base of the port in Manda. Unfortunately, the mind-set in the region are fixated to believe that hegemonic tendencies of Kenya will divert the initial idea of connecting Africa. Moreover, given the high costs involved compared to most country’s GDP in the region, cooperation with other sub-regions beyond Eastern Africa is indispensable. This article assess the feasibility of the LAPSSET project within the regional political dynamics.
Use of green area of Kastamonu: Case study of Clock Tower
Authors: SAKICI CIGDEM
Published: August 2018

The aim of the study is to show which areas mainly prefered when the people want to carry out recreational activities in the Kastamonu city center and determine the appropriateness of this area for recreative activity. A questionnaire study was conducted with 100 randomly selected people in order to determine the most frequently used open green area in terms of recreational activity in Kastamonu and the results showed that 89% of the participants prefer the Clock Tower. Thus Clock Tower was determined as a research area in this study. It is revealed the current state of the Clock Tower in scope of the study, plants are used in this area and the purpose of use of these plants is determined and how frequently users use this area and the reasons for not frequent use. In addition, activities that are effected in the area and changes in mood after using the area. The second survey study was conducted on users of the area consisting of 118 people. It is revealed space  features existing at Clock Tower and events area identified after that space features that users want to be in this area and events areas. Thus, the aim of the area is to determine the users' expectations and the deficiencies and problems in this area.
Anomalies of the facial nerve: a surgeon’s nightmare
Authors: Thomas James , Ghate Girija , Kumar Ashutosh
Published: August 2018

Background: Most of the anomalies of the facial nerve have been encountered during otological surgery or dissection of the temporal bones. ENT surgeons are taught from a nascent stage to always be wary of an anomalous facial nerve during otological surgery. Today’s surgeon is assisted with high definition imaging and nerve monitoring; yet iatrogenic facial palsy still is encountered even today.

Methods: This study was conducted in a select population of patients who reported with aural symptoms with an aim to see the number of facial nerve anomalies one encounters during aural surgery. The filter applied was no patient with congenital anomaly was considered and patients with squamous COM were also excluded.  

Results: Almost 4.5% of the patients subjected to surgery had varying kinds of facial nerve anomaly, the most common being dehiscence of the fallopian canal.

Conclusions: Facial nerve anomalies are not so uncommon as one expects it to be. So it is mandatory that every ENT surgeon should be well versed with facial nerve anatomy and be wary of any structural anatomical abnormality, and irrespective of the experience it pays to be extra cautious when operating on the ear because in the event of damage to the facial nerve the patient has to carry the stigma of a facial deformity for his/her life.
LEITURA NO SÍTIO: CRUZANDO CAMINHOS ENTRE FANTASIA E REALIDADE, POR MEIO DA LEITURA LITERÁRIA
Authors: De Freitas Risoleta Viana , Teixeira Rocha Marinalva Aguiar
Published: August 2018

O presente artigo objetiva apresentar um relato do projeto intitulado Leitura no sítio: cruzando caminhos entre fantasia e realidade, por meio da leitura literária, cujas ações foram desenvolvidas com crianças, com idade entre 8 e 10 anos, moradoras da zona rural da comunidade Fazenda Nova, situada no município de Caxias-MA. O referido projeto que foi resultado de uma proposta apresentada à Pró-Reitoria de Extensão da Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, através do Departamento de Letras, teve como objetivo desenvolver o hábito e o gosto pela leitura, a partir da realização de oficinas literárias ofertadas a crianças com pouco acesso ao livro. Para tanto, partiu-se, primeiramente, do estudo de textos de fundamentos teóricos e metodológicos que versam sobre a temática, a fim de, através desses estudos, buscar estratégias que tivessem o texto literário como eixo norteador do trabalho.
FICÇÃO ESPECULATIVA ESCRITA POR MULHERES NEGRAS
Authors: Gomes de Souza Waldson , Santos Dias Isadora Maria
Published: August 2018

No que diz respeito à ficção especulativa (fantasia, ficção científica e horror sobrenatural), o reconhecimento e as narrativas são dominadas por homens, e mais especificamente, homens brancos. Por isso é significativo analisar as produções literárias de mulheres negras, uma vez que em relação a elas há uma dupla opressão, por gênero e raça, limitando suas publicações e acesso a determinados espaços. O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar os romances Kindred: laços de sangue, de Octavia E. Butler, e Quem teme a morte, de Nnedi Okorafor. Em Kindred, a protagonista Dana vive nos Estados Unidos, durante a década de 1970, e é transportada para o século XIX, no período pré-Guerra Civil. Ela passa a vivenciar na pele a realidade da escravidão tendo como parâmetro seu conhecimento histórico. Já Quem teme a morte se passa em uma África futurista pós-apocalíptica e narra a jornada de Onyesonwu descobrindo ser possuidora de superpoderes que podem salvar a humanidade. A fundamentação teórica tem como base estudos de gênero e raça com foco nas especificidades das produções especulativas, bem como discussões sobre Afrofuturismo – movimento estético no qual as obras de Butler e Okorafor podem ser incluídas. A metodologia prevê leitura e fichamentos dos romances, a partir de uma análise comparativa que pretende articular os pontos de proximidade e distanciamento na construção das duas narrativas. Concluindo, portanto, com considerações sobre a relevância das categorias gênero e raça nas análises das obras destas autoras.
Ações de educação patrimonial no extremo sul catarinense: incentivando a escola a preservar o patrimônio arqueológico
Authors: Campos Juliano Bitencourt , Santos Marcos César Pereira , Zocche Jairo José , Ribeiro André Luiz Martins , De Cezaro Hérom Silva , Pavei Diego Dias , Carrer Lauro , Ostetto Lucy Cristina
Published: August 2018

Este artigo socializa os resultados do projeto de extensão aprovado pelo edital n. 3 2016 da Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (UNESC), intitulado “Arqueologia Pública no Extremo Sul Catarinense: Incentivando os pequenos a valorizar e preservar o patrimônio”. O projeto foi desenvolvido em parceria com o museu de arqueologia e a Secretaria de Educação em turmas de ensino fundamental I da escola municipal José Réus, localizada no município de Balneário Rincão, sul de Santa Catarina. Buscou-se por meio da Educação Patrimonial envolver a comunidade escolar, professores e alunos para conscientizá-los da importância da preservação dos sítios arqueológicos localizados no município, os quais se colocam como um patrimônio a ser valorizado e preservado pela comunidade. A metodologia utilizada incluiu oficinas, palestras e saída de campo com foco na cultura material pré-histórica e histórica da região, a função do arqueólogo e as atividades desenvolvidas no Laboratório de Arqueologia Pedro Ignácio Schmitz (LAPIS/UNESC). Foi salientado o papel do museu arqueológico do município na preservação do patrimônio local. Reiteramos que projetos como este contribuem para que o patrimônio local continue sendo reconhecido a partir do momento que dialoga com a comunidade, colocando-a como parceira neste processo de preservação e salvaguarda.
Cardápios das escolas públicas municipais de Aracaju, Sergipe
Authors: Fagundes Andhressa , Gabriel Cristine Garcia , Mendonça Izabelle de Andrade
Published: August 2018

Objetivou-se descrever o processo de planejamento dos cardápios da alimentação escolar da rede municipal de ensino de Aracaju, Sergipe e, verificar se os mesmos estão em conformidade com as normativas do Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar (PNAE). Foi realizado estudo transversal por meio de entrevistas com nutricionistas do PNAE e análise dos cardápios de 2013. Utilizou-se como referência a Resolução n° 26/2013, expedida pelo órgão gestor federal do programa. Os cardápios eram elaborados por nutricionistas, com uma boa oferta de frutas/hortaliças, predominância de alimentos básicos e preparações regionais. Por outro lado, o descumprimento destes foi um dos principais problemas identificados. Foi observada a presença de cardápios padronizados para toda a rede, ausência de cardápios diferenciados para estudantes com necessidades nutricionais específicas, não adequação dos valores nutricionais e insuficiente aquisição de gêneros dos agricultores locais.  Observaram-se irregularidades de acordo com o que é preconizado pelo programa. Aponta-se a necessidade de reajustes na composição nutricional e subsídios adequados para efetivar os cardápios planejados.
Indicadores socioeconômicos, nutricionais e de percepção de insegurança alimentar e nutricional em famílias rurais
Authors: Morais Dayane de Castro , Sperandio Naiara , Dutra Luiza Veloso , Franceschini Sylvia do Carmo Castro , Santos Ricardo Henrique Silva , Priore Silvia Eloiza
Published: August 2018

A insegurança alimentar e nutricional é multifacetada, apresentando diversos indicadores para esta situação, como os socioeconômicos, de estado nutricional e de percepção quanto ao acesso aos alimentos. Objetivou avaliar a insegurança alimentar e nutricional de famílias rurais, segundo indicadores socioeconômicos, nutricionais e de percepção. Para tal avaliação, utilizou-se indicadores sociais, econômicos, antropométricos, de consumo alimentar e de percepção, segundo Escala Brasileira de Insegurança Alimentar (EBIA). Das famílias avaliadas, 49,4% estavam em insegurança alimentar, pela EBIA. Presença de menor de 18 anos, renda per capita, água tratada, número de moradores e de filhos e recebimento de Bolsa Família associaram-se a (in) segurança alimentar. A pontuação da EBIA correlacionou-se positivamente com número de moradores, filhos e adolescentes e negativamente com renda total e per capita. O estado nutricional não associou-se à (in) segurança alimentar, pela EBIA, embora a maioria das famílias apresentasse algum integrante com distrofia nutricional. Não houve associação entre consumo alimentar da família e insegurança alimentar, embora todas as famílias apresentassem consumo inadequado de energia e cálcio, e a maioria para sódio, zinco, fibra, ferro, lipídios e carboidratos. Assim, a segurança alimentar e nutricional deve ser avaliada em nível familiar, por diferentes indicadores, visando à avaliação complementar de suas diferentes vertentes.
Árboles útiles del bosque tropical caducifolio secundario en la Reserva Forestal Villa Allende, Chiapas, México
Authors: Rodríguez Larramendi Luis Alfredo , Sánchez Cortés María Silvia , Gordillo Ruiz Mercedes Concepción
Published: August 2018

Antecedentes y Objetivos: El bosque tropical caducifolio (BTC) destaca por su valor utilitario, pero la información sobre el uso de las plantas por la población mestiza es limitada. Este estudio describe el valor de uso e importancia ecológica de las especies arbóreas nativas del BTC secundario cercano a comunidades campesinas en la Reserva Forestal Villa Allende, Chiapas, México.Métodos: La información etnobotánica se obtuvo por la técnica de lista libre y se complementó con un inventario florístico a través del método de parcelas. Se calculó el índice de valor de uso como medida de la importancia cultural y se relacionó con la importancia ecológica de cada especie útil, usando valores relativos de frecuencia, densidad y dominancia.Resultados clave: Se registraron 103 especies útiles de angiospermas, 77% de ellas son de uso múltiple y corresponden a 10 categorías de uso, siendo los más destacados: combustible (73), postes (68) y construcción (63). Eysenhardtia adenostylis (1.36) y Acacia pennatula (1.29) fueron las especies con el valor de uso más alto, aunque la mayoría (84%) registró bajos valores de uso (≤0.3). Asimismo, las especies con mayor valor de uso poseen bajos valores de importancia ecológica (IVI ≤0.69). El valor de uso por especie no se relacionó con el valor de importancia ecológica, excepto porque la dominancia del bosque de 19 años de abandono se correlacionó positivamente con el valor de uso (rs=0.30, P=0.04) y la relación significativa entre la densidad con el valor de uso ornamental (rs=0.41, P=0.03). Con base en el valor de uso se recomendaron nueve especies potenciales para conservación y restauración del BTC en la zona estudiada.Conclusiones: El BTC secundario en la Reserva Forestal Villa Allende, Chiapas, provee de especies arbóreas útiles para satisfacer las necesidades básicas de las comunidades, aunque la importancia cultural de éstas no depende de su importancia ecológica.
Consumer Health Information Technology in the Prevention of Substance Abuse: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Pradhan Apoorva Milind , Park Leah , Shaya Fadia T , Finkelstein Joseph
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Addiction is one of the most rapidly growing epidemics that currently plagues nations around the world. In the United States, it has cost the government more than US $700 billion a year in terms of health care and other associated costs and is also associated with serious social, physical, and mental consequences. Increasing efforts have been made to tackle this issue at different levels, from primary prevention to rehabilitation across the globe. With the use of digital technology rapidly increasing, an effort to leverage the consumer health information technologies (CHITs) to combat the rising substance abuse epidemic has been underway. CHITs are identified as patient-focused technological platforms aimed to improve patient engagement in health care and aid them in navigating the complex health care system.

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to provide a holistic and overarching view of the breadth of research on primary prevention of substance abuse using CHIT conducted over nearly past five decades. It also aimed to map out the changing landscape of CHIT over this period.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review using the Arksey and O’Malley’s modified methodological framework. We searched 4 electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and EMBASE). Papers were included if the studies addressed the use of CHIT for primary prevention of substance abuse and were published in English between 1809 and 2018. Studies that did not focus solely on primary prevention or assessed additional comorbid conditions were eliminated.

RESULTS

Forty-two papers that met our inclusion criteria were included in the review. These studies were published between 1970 and 2018 and were not restricted by geography, age, race, or sex. The review mapped studies using the most commonly used CHIT platforms for substance abuse prevention from mass media in the 1970s to mobile and social media in 2018. Moreover, 191 studies that were exclusively focused on alcohol prevention were excluded and will be addressed in a separate paper. The studies included had diverse research designs although the majority were randomized controlled trials (RCT) or review papers. Many of the RCTs used interventions based on different behavioral theories such as family interactions, social cognitive theories, and harm-minimization framework.

CONCLUSIONS

This review found CHIT platforms to be efficacious and cost-effective in the real-world settings. We also observed a gradual shift in the types and use of CHIT platforms over the past few decades and mapped out their progression. In addition, the review detected a shift in consumer preferences and behaviors from face-to-face interactions to technology-based platforms. However, the studies included in this review only focused on the aspect of primary prevention. Future reviews could assess the effectiveness of platforms for secondary prevention and for prevention of substance abuse among comorbid populations.
“If You Let Them, They Will Be on It 24 Hours a Day”: Qualitative Study Conducted in the United States Exploring Brazilian Immigrant Mothers’ Beliefs, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Screen Time Behaviors of Their Preschool-Age Children (Preprint)
Authors: Lindsay Ana Cristina , Moura Arruda Carlos André , Machado Márcia MT , Greaney Mary L
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

The increasing prevalence of excessive screen time (ST) among children is a growing public health concern, with evidence linking it to an increased risk of overweight and obesity among children.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the beliefs, attitudes, and practices of Brazilian immigrant mothers living in the United States related to their preschool-age children’s ST behaviors.

METHODS

A qualitative study comprising 7 focus group discussions (FGDs) was conducted with Brazilian immigrant mothers living in the United States. All FGDs were audio-recorded and professionally transcribed verbatim. The Portuguese transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 37 women participated in the FGDs. Analyses revealed that although most mothers expressed concerns for their preschool-age children’s ST, nearly all viewed ST as an acceptable part of their children’s daily lives. Furthermore, mothers perceived that ST has more benefits than disadvantages. The mothers’ positive beliefs about (eg, educational purposes and entertainment) and perceived functional benefits of ST (eg, ability to keep children occupied so tasks can be completed and facilitation of communication with family outside the United States) contributed to their acceptance of ST for their preschool-age children. Nevertheless, most mothers spoke of needing to balance their preschool-age children’s ST with other activities. Mothers reported using several parenting practices including monitoring time and content, setting limits and having rules, and prompting their children to participate in other activities to manage their preschool-age children’s ST.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides new information on the beliefs, attitudes, and practices of Brazilian immigrant mothers living in the United States related to their preschool-age children’s ST. Study findings revealed several potentially modifiable maternal beliefs and parenting practices that may provide important targets for parenting- and family-based interventions aimed at limiting preschool-age children’s ST.