bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entrevista com Renato Lessa: ciência política e democracia no Brasil contemporâneo
Authors: Chaloub Jorge , Lima Pedro Luiz
Published: November 2018

Estivemos na PUC-Rio, no dia quinze de agosto de 2018, para conduzir esta entrevista com nosso estimado professor de filosofia política. Foi, para nós, uma forma de coroar os trabalhos no dossiê “Interpretações do Brasil contemporâneo” da Revista Mediações. O entrevistado, Renato Lessa, dispensa maiores apresentações. Cumpre apenas mencionar, em síntese, que Lessa hoje é professor de filosofia política do Departamento de Direito da PUC-Rio. Além de professor titular aposentado pela UFF, Lessa foi professor titular de filosofia política do antigo IUPERJ por quase vinte anos e, mais recentemente, foi Presidente da Biblioteca Nacional, entre 2013 e 2016. Autor de extensa obra, Lessa é agudo observador do passado e do presente da vida política do país, assim como da história das ciências sociais e, em particular, da ciência política entre nós. Em meio ao turbilhão de uma conjuntura pré-eleitoral especialmente tensa, a entrevista não chega a transcender o contexto imediato, o que seria indesejável; antes, busca um ponto de observação, talvez menos imediatista, de onde se possam situar os limites que se impõem ao cientista político e as virtualidades inscritas em sua atividade. Ademais disso, trata-se de interpretar as tormentas que hoje assombram a todos os que lutam pela democracia nesse “desabamento de tempos distintos” que é o Brasil contemporâneo.
O Estado e as políticas públicas que tornaram a agricultura familiar uma agente importante do desenvolvimento
Authors: Freitas Giovanni Barillari de
Published: November 2018

Ao longo da segunda metade do século XX, a luta organizada pelos pequenos produtores rurais e trabalhadores do campo, por participação no orçamento do Estado, desencadeou a institucionalização da categoria “agricultura familiar”, abarcando variados grupos, tornando o desenvolvimento rural difuso. O objetivo deste artigo é mostrar como se deu essa institucionalização, suas características e desafios frente a implementação das políticas públicas orientadas a uma categoria de agentes tão distintos no âmbito cultural, social, econômico e territorial. Para isso, a pesquisa utiliza o arcabouço teórico da sociologia reflexiva de Pierre Bourdieu, no que tange seus estudos sobre o Estado, com a intenção de identificar as lutas simbólicas no campo do poder, tendo a institucionalização da categoria agricultura familiar como produto, colocando diversos grupos sociais na agenda desenvolvimento nacional. Os resultados mostram que, embora tenha formalizado um conjunto de regulamentações e políticas públicas voltadas à agricultura familiar, sua diversidade traz a necessidade da participação de outros fatores que não, unicamente, as políticas públicas federais, evidenciando a distribuição desigual de capital simbólico à heterogênea agricultura familiar.
A Nova Direita no Brasil: contexto e matrizes conceituais
Authors: Alves Cepêda Vera
Published: November 2018

Este artigo pretende tratar do tema da nova direita no Brasil recente. Procura-se identificar os elementos conceituais capazes de definir as fronteiras do campo político da direita no Brasil e no mundo nas últimas décadas. No caso brasileiro o texto trabalha especificamente com o pensamento produzido por intelectuais da nova direita, tomando como base de análise alguns textos selecionados e vinculados também ao tema das fronteiras do novo pensamento de direita e dos principais conceitos mobilizados.
Prática de ensino de sociologia: as dificuldades dos professores alagoanos
Authors: Bodart Cristiano das Neves
Published: November 2018

Este artigo busca apresentar e discutir as principais dificuldades dos professores de Sociologia do Ensino Médio ao lecionar essa disciplina. Parte-se do pressuposto ser necessário, ao estudar o ensino de Sociologia, considerar as deficiências gerais formativas do professor, a falta de tradição da disciplina – por conta de sua recém reintrodução -, a insipiente produção de recursos didáticos, as condições estruturais e cotidianas do trabalho docente. Por isso, o presente artigo apresenta uma breve contextualização geral para, em seguida, analisar as especificidades do ensino de Sociologia no estado de Alagoas. Trata-se de uma pesquisa cujos dados foram obtidos por meio de um questionário online aplicado a 104 professores de Sociologia do Ensino Básico atuantes no estado de Alagoas. Dentre os resultados encontrados destacamos a maior insegurança em ministrar aulas que abordem as contribuições dos clássicos da Sociologia (Karl Marx, Émile Durkheim e Max Weber) para a compreensão dos fenômenos sociais contemporâneos. Somado a essa situação, os professores apontam dificuldades de acesso a recursos didáticos relacionados a tais conteúdos. Identificamos, ainda, que essas dificuldades estão conexas às deficiências formativas, as condições de trabalho e ao contexto mais amplo em que se insere o ensino de Sociologia.
The Impact of Information Technology Management, Training and Strategy Management on Organizational Performance of Sharjah Police
Authors: Abdulla Abdulhabib Abdulla Awadh , Al-Dhaafri Hassan
Published: November 2018

The study mainly aims at investigating the impact that happens to the organizational performance as an impact of utilizing both information technology management and training. In-depth investigation of literature indicates the necessity of the proposal of the current research. The current study has utilized various theories including Knowledge Based View (KBV) and Resource Based View of the firm (RBV) so as to achieve the main purpose of the research. It also aimed at examining the impact of IT management and training on the performance of the organization. The study used a questionnaire as a tool. The researcher distributed a number of 341 questionnaires randomly on some department of the police in Sharjah. When the questionnaires were filled, the researcher used SPSS system in order to accurately analyze the results. The study concluded that the organizational performance of the Sharjah police has been positively affected by using information technology management. In addition, the research shows that it is essential to utilize on information technology management, training and strategy management on order to affect the performance of the organization successfully.
Cross-Border Portfolio Investment from Developing Economies and Top Major Partners, Using the Gravity Model
Authors: Khayat Sahar Hassan , Khayyat Samiha Hassan
Published: November 2018

The study has evaluated the volume of cross-border portfolio investment from developing economies and top major partners, using gravity model. Panel data set is used on bilateral gross cross-border investment flows between 37 developing countries and 79 host countries, which are the top five in the world from 2001 and 2012. The positive and significant coefficient on GDP per capita in a destination country can explain a significant part of Lucas paradox. It supported the reason why developing capital is invested outside the region. The results showed statistically insignificant effect of bilateral trade in lagged form on asset holdings. There is a high correlation between GDP per capita in source country and market capitalization of listed companies in the source countries. The significant positive coefficient of GDP per capita of source economies in OLS suggested that richer economies are major sources of portfolio investment Geographical proximity exerts a significant positive influence on the assets that investors may diversify their portfolios.
Determinants of the Size of the Government Expenditure: An Empirical Study on Bangladesh
Authors: Firoj Mahamuda , Sultana Nair , Sultana Farhana
Published: November 2018

Analysis of the nature of government expenditure constitutes a central concern in economic literature. This is because many countries of the world consistently have increased the size of government expenditure. Bangladesh has done the same practice over the last few decades. There is a need to investigate the factors which determine the size of the public spending of Bangladesh. The error correction modeling technique for the short-run dynamic equation and ordinary least square (OLS) for long-run static equation are used over the period 1973 to 2016 to this purpose.  The results of the short run dynamic equation and long-run static equation showed that external debt, real GDP, urbanization, tax, and non-tax government revenue positively influence the government expenditure where dependency on foreign aid and trade openness adversely affect it. The study recommends that the government should take proper step to expand the revenue base, stimulate the economic growth and reduce the external debt, and foreign aid.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Economics and Finance, Vol. 10, No. 11
Authors: Zhang Michael
Published: November 2018

Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Economics and Finance, Vol. 10, No. 11
Hvordan samtaler lærer og elever om modelltekster? Et bidrag til modelltekstdidaktikken
Authors: Håland Anne
Published: November 2018

Bruken av modelltekster er sterkt vektlagt i norske læreplaner, men det meste av didaktikken er utviklet i Australia der tekstsamtalene som brukes, kjennetegnes av en streng form for samtale. Tekstsamtalene, ofte omtalt som dekonstruksjon av modelltekster, utgjør en viktig del av modelltekstdidaktikken. Denne studien undersøker hvordan en lærer i norsk skole samtaler om tekster med utgangspunkt i modelltekster, og hvilke samtalemønstre som finnes i slike tekstsamtaler. Datamaterialet består av tekstsamtaler gjennomført på 5. trinn. Samtalene tar utgangspunkt i noen bestemte språklige trekk som elevene kan prøve ut i etterkant av tekstsamtalene. Samtalene er analysert med utgangspunkt i dialogiske samtaleteorier. Analysene viser innslag av dialogiske mønstre og disse mønstrene er knyttet til de utforskende delene av tekstsamtalene. Analyseresultatene gir grunn til å diskutere kvalitetstrekk ved modelltekstsamtaler. Artikkelen bidrar til modelltekstdidaktikken ved at den utarbeider spørsmål som har til hensikt å hjelpe elevene å oppdage, utforske og utfordre språklige mønstre.Nøkkelord: modelltekster, dialogiske samtaleteorier, dekonstruksjon, modell-tekstdidaktikk, samtaledidaktikkHow a teacher and her students talk about model texts.A contribution to the model text didacticsAbstractThe Norwegian curriculum puts emphasis on the use of model texts in education. Text talk, which is also referred to as deconstruction of model texts, is an important part of model text didactics. However, as this didactic method was developed in Australia, where the text discussions frequently are structured and teacher-led, it might not be adequate in a Norwegian context, where classroom communication commonly is looser. The study investigates how a Norwegian teacher talks about model texts, and which dialogue patterns that occur during these talks. The data material consists of text talks from a 5th grade classroom (age 10). These talks include specific textual features that the pupils are encouraged to explore when later constructing written texts on their own. The theoretical framework for the analysis of the data material rests mainly on dialogical theories. The results of the study indicate that dialogical patterns are at play during text talks and the dialogic patterns are more distinct in the exploring parts of the text talks. The results of the study provide a foundation for discussions about qualities of disciplinary talks about model texts. It is the hope that this article, by suggesting questions that might encourage pupils to discover, explore and challenge text features, will contribute to the field of research about model text didactics.Keywords: model texts, dialogical talk theories, deconstruction, model text didactics, text talk didactics
Kan filosofen Michel Foucault få barnehageplass?
Authors: Akslen Åsa Nylenna
Published: November 2018

Barnehagen er blitt en sentral og nødvendig del av hverdagen for småbarnsfamilier, både som velferdstilbud og som pedagogisk virksomhet. Barnehagens formålsparagraf sier at barnehagen skal fremme demokrati, bygge på verdier som likeverd og respekt, barns rettigheter understrekes, og barn skal i større grad ha fått innflytelse over sin egen hverdag. Filosofi, religion og etikk er et av fagområdene rammeplanen sier det skal arbeides med, men undersøkelser viser at fagområdet oppfattes som krevende, og at det arbeides lite med dette (St.meld. 41 2009). Dette er tankevekkende. Nettopp filosofi, etikk og religion kan skape rom for undring og tenkning, og være et viktig bidrag til å realisere barnehagens formål. I en hverdag med asymmetriske forhold mellom små barn og voksne, kan refleksjon omkring maktforhold og rutiner være med på å realisere barnehagens grunnleggende verdier. Denne artikkelen er et innspill til hvordan filosofen Michel Foucaults tenkning kan bidra til arbeidet med fagområdet filosofi, etikk og religion med formål om medvirkning og demokrati i barnehagehverdagen.
Selvmordsrisiko blandt personer diagnosticeret med demens
Authors: Erlangsen Annette
Published: November 2018

Formål: Studiet undersøger risikoen for selvmord blandt personer med hospitalsdiagnosticeret demens og dets sammenhæng med depression. Data og metode: Individbaserede registerdata dækkende alle personer fyldt 50 år og derover bosat i Danmark i perioden 1. januar 1990 til 31. december 2000 (N = 2.474.767) blev analyseret. Eventhistory analyseteknik blev benyttet til at beregne relative risiko for død af selvmord i multivariable analyser. Resultat: I alt 18.648.875 personår blev observeret over det 11-årige studieforløb. Der forekom 136 selvmord blandt personer med demens diagnosticeret ved hospitalsindlæggelse. Den relative risiko for selvmord blandt mænd og kvinder i alderen 50–69 år med demens var henholdsvis 8,5 [CI-95%: 6,3–11,3] og 10,8 [CI-95%:7,4–15,7]. Personer fyldt 70 år og derover med demensdiagnoser havde en tre gange højere selvmordsrisiko end personer uden demens. Den forhøjede selvmordsrisiko blandt personer med demens forblev signifikant også efter justering for depressionsdiagnoser. Henholdsvis 40% og 38% af selvmord blandt mænd og kvinder med demens fandt sted inden for det første år efter demensdiagnosen første gang blev konstateret. Konklusion: Demens, defineret som diagnosticeret ved hospitalsindlæggelse, var forbundet med en højere selvmordsrisiko for personer fyldt 50 år og derover. Særligt tiden efter første diagnose og dobbeltdiagnose med depression korrelerede med en forhøjet risiko for selvmord. Objective: The current study aims to examine the risk of suicide in persons diagnosed with dementia during a hospitalization and its relationship to mood disorders. Data and method: Individual-level register data on all persons aged 50+ living in Denmark during January 1, 1990 through December 31, 2000 (N = 2,474,767) were included in the analysis. Event-history analysis was applied to calculate relative risks of dying by suicide while controlling for select timevarying covariates Results: A total of 18,648,875 personyears were observed during the 11-year study period. During this period, 136 persons who previously were diagnosed with dementia died by suicide. Men and women aged 50–69 years with hospital presentations of dementia had a relative suicide risk of 8.5 [CI-95%: 6.3–11.3] and 10.8 [CI-95%:7.4–15.7], respecti-vely. Those who aged 70 or older with dementia had a threefold higher risk than persons with no dementia. The risk among persons with dementia remained significant when controlling for diag-noses of mood disorders. As many as 40% of the men and 38% of the women who died by suicide died within the first year after initial dementia diagnosis. Conclusions: Dementia, determined during hospitalization, was associated with an elevated risk of suicide for older adults. Particularly, time shortly after initial diagnosis and presence of mood disorders was found to correlate with an increased risk of suicide.
De usynlige gamle
Authors: Fleischer Elene
Published: November 2018

.
Thomas Joiner: Myths about suicide
Authors: Larsen Kim
Published: November 2018

.
Kan posttraumatisk vekst være en beskyttelsesfaktor mot
selvmord?
Authors: Siqveland Johan , Hafstad Gertrud Sofie
Published: November 2018

Posttraumatisk vekst er positive personlige
endringer etter møte med
alvorlige belastninger. Endringene kan
ofte beskrives som å falle innenfor et
eller flere av områdene: bedre relasjoner
til andre, økt personlig styrke, økt
åndelighet, nye muligheter i livet og
økt tilfredshet med livet. Suicidologien
har vist at selvmordsatferd og selvmord
er relatert til tidligere belastninger
og posttraumatisk stress. Men ikke
alle psykologiske endringer i møtet med
belastninger trenger å være relatert til
økt selvmordsfare. Denne artikkelen
drøfter muligheten for at posttraumatisk
vekst kan tilføre suicidologien en økt
forståelse for posttraumatisk tilpasning
og mer kunnskap om mulige beskyttelsesfaktorer
for selvmord etter belastninger.
Empirisk forskning og teoretiske
sammenhenger diskuteres.
Posttraumatic growth can be defined
as positive personal changes after highly
challenging events. These changes will
often be reported within one or more
of five thematic areas; personal strength,
appreciation of life, new possibilities,
improved relationships and spirituality.
Previous research has reported significant
relationships among exposure to
potentially traumatizing event, posttraumatic
stress and suicidal behaviour.
Adaptive trajectories related to posttraumatic
growth after encountering
highly challenging events are less
studied. In this paper we explore, by
reviewing empirical research and
theoretical models of suicidal behaviour,
how posttraumatic growth might
be a protective factor for suicidal
behaviour.
Considerations for the Quality Control of Newly Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine in China: A Review
Authors: Qu Jianbo , Zhang Tideng , Liu Jiaxing , Su Yuanyuan , Wang Hainan
Published: November 2018

Background: The quality control of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been essential for the development of TCM industry. In recent years, with the acceleration of TCM modernization, research on the quality control of TCM has reached a higher level. Objective: This article suggested a comprehensive approach to the quality control of TCM and proposed specific requirements for the quality control of newly registered TCM in various phases of development. Method: The views in this article are mainly derived from the laws and regulations of China and the authors’ experiences. Results: It pointed out that the investigation on the quality control of TCM should be led by Chinese traditional medicine theory and guided by the clinical value. Moreover, it should follow the basic principle of “quality by design” and in-process control to establish a quality control system that embodies the characteristics of TCM and accurately reflects the safety, efficacy, and quality consistency. Given that TCM is a natural resource-dependent industry, the quality control of TCM should also focus on the protection and sustainable use of resources. Conclusions: TCM quality control should organically combine Chinese traditional medicine theory with modern science and technology, be guided by clinical value, pay attention to the protection and sustainable use of resources, fully embody the characteristics of quality by design (QbD) and in-process quality control, and gradually establish a quality control system in accordance with the features of Chinese traditional medicine. Highlights: The article has guiding significance for the research and development of newly registered TCM.
Substance Use, Homelessness, Mental Illness and Medicaid Coverage: A Set-up for High Emergency Department Utilization
Authors: Moulin Aimee , Evans Ethan , Xing Guido , Melnikow Joy
Published: November 2018

Introduction: Frequent users of emergency departments (ED) account for 21–28% of all ED visits nationwide. The objective of our study was to identify characteristics unique to patients with psychiatric illness who are frequent ED users for mental health care. Understanding unique features of this population could lead to better care and lower healthcare costs. Methods: This retrospective analysis of adult ED visits for mental healthcare from all acute care hospitals in California from 2009–2014 used patient-level data from California’s Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development. We calculated patient demographic and visit characteristics for patients with a primary diagnosis of a mental health disorder as a percentage of total adult ED visits. Frequent ED users were defined as patients with more than four visits in a 12-month period. We calculated adjusted rate ratios (aRR) to assess the association between classification as an ED frequent user and patient age, sex, payer, homelessness, and substance use disorder. Results: In the study period, 846,867 ED visits for mental healthcare occurred including 238,892 (28.2%) visits by frequent users. Patients with a primary mental health diagnosis and a co-occurring substance use diagnosis in the prior 12 months (77% vs. 37%, aRR [4.02], 95% confidence interval [CI] [3.92-4.12]), homelessness (2.9% vs 1.1%, odds ratio [1.35], 95% [CI] [1.27-1.43]) were more likely to be frequent users. Those covered by Medicare (aRR [3.37], 95% CI [3.20-3.55]) or the state’s Medicaid program Medi-Cal (aRR [3.10], 95% CI [2.94-3.25]) were also more likely to be frequent users compared with those with private insurance coverage. Conclusion: Patients with substance use disorders, homelessness and public healthcare coverage are more likely to be frequent users of EDs for mental illness. Substance use and housing needs are important factors to address in this population.
Assessment of Outcomes With a Sedation Protocol During Laser Photocoagulation in Preterm Infants With Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Dannelley Jennifer F. , Johnson Peter N. , Anderson Michael P. , Oestreich Kari , Siatkowski R. Michael , Miller Jamie L.
Published: November 2018

OBJECTIVES To evaluate the success of a sedation protocol of fentanyl and midazolam infusions for infants undergoing laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity.

METHODS This retrospective study included infants receiving a sedation protocol for laser photocoagulation during a 4-year period. The primary objective was protocol success, defined as completion without interruption, absence of protocol dose deviations, and absence of interventions. Secondary objectives compared outcomes between those with and without opioid/benzodiazepine exposure. A logistic regression was used to assess the effect of prior opioid/benzodiazepine exposure on requirement for fentanyl infusion increases.

RESULTS Twenty-six infants were included. Seven (26.9%) had protocol success. Sixteen (61.5%) had protocol success, excluding dose deviations. Seventeen (65.4%) experienced ≥1 cardiopulmonary adverse events. Photocoagulation was completed in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS Most achieved protocol success, when eliminating dosing deviations. These data indicate that flexibility is needed in fentanyl and midazolam infusion titration, based on clinical response.
Making Sense of Equivalent Ratios
Authors: Cengiz Nesrin , Rathouz Margaret
Published: November 2018

A framework using contexts, language, and representations can support middle school students' justifications.
Evaluating Technology for Teaching Mathematics
Authors: Shin Dongjo , Smith Ryan C. , Kim Somin
Published: November 2018

Use a framework to evaluate a tool: Is it mathematically sound? Does it offer opportunities for student engagement with little distraction? Will it afford students the chance to develop their own ideas?
MTMS Favorites: “Rough-Draft Talk in Mathematics Classrooms”
Authors: King Alessandra
Published: November 2018

Members of the Editorial Panel spotlight articles from the twenty-three-year history of MTMS. In this offering, the takeaway is the importance of getting students to open up about their incomplete mathematical reasoning.
Pen Pal Books: A Problem-Solving Challenge
Authors: Wheeler Ann , Hayata Carole , Mallam Winifred
Published: November 2018

Using children's literature to stimulate mathematics learning is by no means a novel idea. Myriad books by wellknown authors, such as Stuart Murphy and Cindy Neuschwander, not only engage the readers but also spark students' interest in learning mathematics. The combination of literature, mathematics, and well-developed classroom activities with discussion can transform a student into a problem solver who engages in conceptually driven learning (NCTM 2000). In our article, we discuss the use of a pen pal book project that began with the creation of mathematics-themed children's books by pre-K-8 preservice teachers. The intended audience for the books was sixth-grade students. In this collaborative partnership, the books created by the preservice teachers were then presented to sixth-grade students who read the stories; solved the problems posed; and critiqued the overall content, readability, and relevance of the story topics.
Geometry and Proportional Reasoning in Agriculture
Authors: Moss Erin R.
Published: November 2018

As you are enjoying your favorite icecream cone or sundae, take a moment to think about where your ice cream came from. If you have never visited a dairy farm, you might have a quaint image of a person sitting on a stool, milking a cow by hand into a metal pail. However, technological advances have automated many aspects of dairy farming, including processes for efficient milking. A rotary milking parlor is one such technology currently in use.
What Happened at Frida's Museum?
Authors: Peña Jesica , Cortina José Luis , Višňovská Jana
Published: November 2018

A teacher in Mexico City works with two researchers on an instructional design project to help kindergartners become proficient in participating in whole-class mathematical conversations.
Which contains the most?
Authors: Higdon Robbie L. , Sawyer Amanda G.
Published: November 2018

When implementing STEM activities, such as model rockets blasting off or paper airplanes flying across the room, the mathematical or scientific content can get lost as we focus on the “wow factor.” However, meaningful learning experiences can be implemented anytime by employing the components of the 4E×2 instructional model. In essence, the model promotes students exploring their ideas before constructing an explanation for their concept, allowing the development of deeper understanding and connections with multiple conceptions.
Human remains of Ovaherero and Nama
Authors: Pape Elise
Published: November 2018

Taking its starting point from a socio-anthropological study combining
biographical interviews, semi-structured interviews and ethnographic
observations collected between 2016 and 2018 in Germany, France and the United
States among Ovaherero and Nama activists, and also members of different
institutions and associations, this article focuses on the question of human
remains in the current struggle for recognition and reparation of the genocide
of the Ovaherero and Nama from a transnational perspective. First, the text
shows the ways in which the memory of human remains can be considered as a
driving force in the struggle of the affected communities. Second, it outlines
the main points of mismatches of perspective between descendants of the
survivors and the responsible museums during past restitutions of human remains
from German anthropological collections. Third, the article more closely
examines the resources of Ovaherero in the United States in the struggle for
recognition and reparation, the recent discovery of Namibian human remains in
the American Museum of Natural History in New York City and the questions that
it raises.
Ļaudona Agriculture School building designed by architect Indriķis Blankenburgs
Authors: Zvirgzdiņš Indulis
Published: November 2018

The construction plan of the Ļaudona Two-Year Agriculture School (1923) supposedly is the first project of an educational institution of the graduate of the Riga Polytechnic Institute (1913), architect Indriķis Blankenburgs (1877–1944). It was not a new building, but a reconstruction of the building after a fire, however, we can find some elements that had been used in the new buildings. The building was used for education for more than half-century. The article is devoted to the history of the building, also mentioning other buildings designed by I. Blankenburgs’ projects in Madona city.
Chronology of key events of Riga Technical University
Authors: Zigmunde Alīda , Lapsa Rūta , Gudro Ilze
Published: November 2018

IN STUDY YEAR 2017/2018 September 1 Prime Minister of Latvia Māris Kučinskis attended the traditional meeting of RTU Rector with teaching staff and employees of RTU and presented to the Rector a Letter of Appreciation «For lifelong contribution to the development of Latvian science and persistent efforts to develop studies of exact sciences, innovation and technology transfer, thus enhancing the quality of education development of the national economy».
Ievads
Authors: Mežinskis Gundars
Published: November 2018

Pagājušā gada 1. oktobrī apritēja 70 gadi, kopš dibināta Rīgas Tehniskās universitātes (RTU) Silikātu  tehnoloģijas katedra. Katedras 50 gadu jubilejas reizē RTU izdevniecība publicēja monogrāfiju (brošūru), kurā tika sniegts pārskats par Silikātu materiālu institūtā (SMI) paveikto mācību un zinātniskā darbā no 2002. līdz 2007. gadam.
Celtniecības keramika, keramzīts un keramiskie sorbenti
Authors: Švinka Ruta , Švinka Visvaldis
Published: November 2018

Vēsturiski viena no silikātu tehnoloģijas katedras pamattēmām vienmēr ir bijusi celtniecības materiālu pētīšana un jaunu materiālu izstrāde. Tie ir gan keramikas materiāli, gan materiāli uz neorganisko javu saistvielu bāzes. Ir analizētas un salīdzinātas šo materiālu īpašības: siltuma vadāmība, līdzsvara mitrums, mehāniskās īpašības. Salīdzinātas rūpnieciskos apstākļos un laboratorijā iegūtu dažādu Latvijas mālu keramikas materiālu īpašības un struktūra. Aprakstīta dažu rūpniecisko atkritumu ietekme uz keramikas materiālu īpašībām. Aprakstīta arī jauna keramikas materiāla keramzīta ražošanas tehnoloģija – vienas stadijas paņēmiens, kas ļauj paplašināt keramzīta ražošanai izmantojamo izejvielu bāzi un variēt keramzīta īpašības atkarībā no paredzamā pielietojuma. Pētīta dažādu Latvijas mālu noderība porainu keramisku sorbentu iegūšanai, par poru veidotājiem izmantojot organiskas dabas ražošanas atkritumus. Analizēta keramikas virsmas apstrāde, piemēram, apstarošana ar paātrinātajiem elektroniem un nanodaļiņu pārklājumi, keramikas granulu sorbcijas spējas palielināšanai un noderība fotokatalītiskai organisku piesārņotāju sadalīšanai.Building Ceramics, Expanded Clay, and Ceramic SorbentsInvestigation and development of new building materials historically was one of base research fields in the Institute of Silicate Materials. These are ceramic materials and materials based on inorganic binders. These materials have both advantages and disadvantages. Properties of these materials, such as thermal conductivity, equilibrium humidity and mechanical properties, are analysed and compared. Properties and structure of ceramic materials produced from Latvian clays in the laboratory and industrially were compared. Influence of addition of some industrial waste on the properties of ceramic materials was described. A new technology for obtaining expanded clay pellets was developed. It is a one-step technology that makes it possible to extend the basis of raw materials for production of expanded clay pellets and to produce pellets with different properties depending on the possible practical use. Usefulness of different Latvian clay for the production of porous ceramic sorbents was investigated. Organic industrial waste was added to function as pore former. A treatment of ceramic surface by irradiation with accelerated electrons or coating with nanoparticles was analysed. An increase of sorption activity of ceramic pellets or usefulness for the photocatalytic decomposition of organic pollution was the goal of the aforementioned treatment.Keywords – ceramics, expanded clay, equilibrium moisture, thermal insulation, ceramic granules, sorbents.
Cryo-EM structure of the mechanically activated ion channel OSCA1.2
Authors: Jojoa-Cruz Sebastian , Saotome Kei , Murthy Swetha E , Tsui Che Chun Alex , Sansom Mark SP , Patapoutian Ardem , Ward Andrew B
Published: November 2018

Mechanically activated ion channels underlie touch, hearing, shear-stress sensing, and response to turgor pressure. OSCA/TMEM63s are a newly-identified family of eukaryotic mechanically activated ion channels opened by membrane tension. The structural underpinnings of OSCA/TMEM63 function are not explored. Here, we elucidate high resolution cryo-electron microscopy structures of OSCA1.2, revealing a dimeric architecture containing eleven transmembrane helices per subunit and surprising topological similarities to TMEM16 proteins. We locate the ion permeation pathway within each subunit by demonstrating that a conserved acidic residue is a determinant of channel conductance. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal membrane interactions, suggesting the role of lipids in OSCA1.2 gating. These results lay a foundation to decipher how the structural organization of OSCA/TMEM63 is suited for their roles as MA ion channels.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment as a Novel Way to Manage Postvasectomy Pain Syndrome
Authors: Gray Richard E. , Kasper Korey
Published: November 2018

Postvasectomy pain syndrome (PVPS) can be debilitating and is notoriously difficult to treat, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach. In this case report, osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) was used to treat a patient with PVPS. After vasectomy, an otherwise-healthy man experienced chronic right testicular pain, aggravated by exercise, touch, and sexual intercourse, resulting in marital strain and an inability to perform routine fitness activities. Symptoms persisted for 8 years, despite lifestyle modifications, orally administered pain regimens, pelvic floor physical therapy, nerve blocks, steroid injections, epididymectomy, spermatic cord denervation, and counseling. After the patient's urologist suggested orchiectomy, his family medicine physician referred him for OMT. The OMT interventions, applied over a 4-month period, were directed at the lumbar spine, pelvis, pelvic floor, and lower abdomen. After treatment, the patient reported absence of testicular pain most of the time and described his quality of life as “10 times better.” Literature review revealed no reports of OMT used to manage PVPS.
Plant defense elicitors: plant fitness versus wheat stem sawfly
Authors: Shrestha Govinda , Briar Shabeg S. , Reddy Gadi V.P.
Published: November 2018

The wheat stem sawfly (WSS), Cephus cinctus Norton, is an important wheat pest in the Northern Great Plains of the USA. No single control measure effectively suppresses WSS damage. This study provides information on the effects on the WSS adult settling preference behavior on wheat plants under laboratory conditions from treatment with both synthetic plant defense elicitors (Actigard® and cis-jasmone) and a botanical insecticide (Azadirachtin®). In addition, field experiments were performed to determine whether these chemicals impact the WSS fitness (larval mortality and larval body weight), winter wheat plant fitness (infestation, stem lodging, yield, and quality), adult population of WSS and Bracon spp., and larval parasitism levels. Our lab results showed that there were no significant differences in adult settling behavior on plants exposed separately to each chemical and control. In contrast, when adults were exposed simultaneously to treated and untreated plants, there was a significant reduction in the percentage of adults settling on Actigard® and Azadirachtin® treated plants compared to plants sprayed with water in the same cage. However, in field situations, regardless of application timing and field location, none of the chemicals significantly reduced adult population or stems damage. The exception was two times applications of Actigard® had significantly lower WSS infested stem damage levels at 30 days after initial treatment applications at Knees and 50 days at Choteau locations compared to control, but without effect at the Conrad location. The field study indicated that two times applications of Actigard® significantly increased diapausing larval mortality percentages and lowered stem lodging levels compared to untreated controls at Knees and Choteau locations, while no effects at Conrad location. Larval body weight was significantly lower in plots treated with Actigard® at Knees and Conrad, but no effects at Choteau. No significant differences were found in wheat yield and quality in plots treated with chemicals and controls at any location. Bracon spp. adult population and parasitism levels were not negatively affected by the use of chemicals. In conclusion, this study offers insights on what treatments should be emphasized in more detail despite variable findings.
Treatment of anxiety disorders in patients with comorbid bipolar disorder
Authors: Ott Carol A.
Published: November 2018

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent comorbid diagnoses in patients with bipolar disorder (BD). A comorbid anxiety diagnosis can significantly impact the severity of bipolar symptoms, increase the risk of suicidality, and decrease psychosocial functioning and quality of life. The Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) task force published recommendations for treatment in 2012 suggesting that specific anticonvulsant mood stabilizers and second-generation antipsychotics are the medications of choice to treat these comorbidities. Serotonergic antidepressant medications are first-line medications for the treatment of most anxiety disorders; however, this can be problematic for a patient with BD. Antidepressant use in BD has been associated with a risk of manic switch as well as potential destabilization of mood. Mood stabilizer therapy should be established for patients with comorbid BD and an anxiety disorder before other medications are added to address the anxiety disorder. While benzodiazepine medications are recommended as third-line therapy in the CANMAT task force recommendations, their use should be avoided in patients with comorbid BD, posttraumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders. The use of benzodiazepines should in general be avoided for all patients if possible, based upon current clinical research. Interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, and relaxation therapy are effective for the treatment of anxiety symptoms, especially emotional experiences, in patients who are euthymic.
Major depressive disorder in children and adolescents
Authors: Mullen Sandra
Published: November 2018

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders of childhood and adolescence, but because of symptom variation from the adult criteria, it is often unrecognized and untreated. Symptom severity predicts the initial mode of treatment ranging from psychotherapy to medications to combination treatment. Several studies have assessed the efficacy of treatment in children and adolescents, and others have evaluated the risk of developing adverse effects and/or new or worsening suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Optimal treatment often includes a combination of therapy and antidepressant medication. The most studied combination includes fluoxetine with cognitive behavioral therapy. Once symptom remission is obtained, treatment should be continued for 6 to 12 months before a slow taper is initiated. Although most children and adolescents recover from their first depressive episode, a large number will continue to present with MDD in adulthood. Untreated depression in children and adolescents may increase the risk of substance abuse; poor work, academic, and social functioning; and risk of suicidal behaviors.
Case reports of interprofessional care for clients enrolled in a mental health court
Authors: DeJongh Beth , Oldani Michael
Published: November 2018

Background:

An interprofessional mental health court (MHC) team was created in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 2014 to help keep low-level offenders with mental health (MH) disorders out of the correctional system. The focus of MHC is on stabilization of MH disorders and rehabilitation rather than incarceration. A clinical MH pharmacist was added to the team in 2015 to provide expertise on psychotropic medication regimens and to meet with clients for medication education.

Case Reports:

A 58-year-old black male was admitted to the MHC after he failed to provide sex registry information. His past medical history was significant for major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and seizures. At the time of pharmacy review, medications included aspirin, levetiracetam, risperidone, ziprasidone, and paroxetine. The pharmacist identified 3 potential drug therapy problems (duplicate therapy, potential adverse drug reaction, and inadequate dosage) and sent a letter to his psychiatrist. Risperidone and ziprasidone were switched to aripiprazole, and he was referred to a neurologist. He was eventually terminated from the MHC because of multiple violations. A 34-year-old black male was admitted to the MHC for disorderly conduct and destruction of property. His past MH history was significant for schizophrenia and substance use disorders. He was not taking psychiatric medication upon admission to MHC. While the client was institutionalized for competency determination, collaboration between the MHC pharmacist and psychiatrist resulted in the prescribing of a long-acting injectable antipsychotic, which the client was stabilized on. He subsequently graduated from the MHC.

Discussion:

Clinical MH pharmacists play a key role on MHC teams by providing medication education, identifying drug therapy problems, and communicating with the clients' medical providers. Lack of access to medical records, court schedule conflicts, and collaboration between interprofessional groups that historically have not worked together are challenges to a pharmacist working on an MHC team.
Lost and Found: Reinventing Multi‐Screen Adaptable Architecture
Authors: Dou Pingping
Published: November 2018

One of traditional Chinese architecture's most distinctive features is the partition of interior spaces by multiple, mostly moveable screens. These offer many benefits in terms of not only the practical aspects of spatial flexibility and climate control, but also less tangible aural, psychological and ornamental effects. Guest‐Editor Pingping Dou explores their history and function, and illustrates their potential for use in today's search for architectural adaptability through three recent projects in Beijing.
A New Protocol for Space Production: Generating Socially Cohesive Urban Architecture
Authors: Wang Shuo
Published: November 2018

META‐Project is a Beijing‐based practice intent on improving quality of life in cities. Through a parallel research platform and an intermediate prototyping thread, it is exploring ways of using architecture to connect people to their social environment and promote positive interaction. Founding principal Shuo Wang outlines the evolution of META‐Project's approach and documents several of its recent community‐enhancing projects and investigations.
Effective Educational Videos in Emergency Medicine
Authors: Young Timothy P. , Guptill Mindi , Thomas Tammi , Mellick Larry
Published: November 2018

Video is a popular format for teaching and learning online. Emergency medicine (EM) has been a leader in online learning and EM educators may wish to use video to teach. The creation of online video content is fraught with pitfalls that may make videos less effective. We review notable theory and evidence regarding effective use of video for education in EM with international considerations.
Secondary Self‐Assembly of Supramolecular Nanotubes into Tubisomes and Their Activity on Cells
Authors: Brendel Johannes C. , Sanchis Joaquin , Catrouillet Sylvain , Czuba Ewa , Chen Moore Z. , Long Benjamin M. , Nowell Cameron , Johnston Angus , Jolliffe Katrina A. , Perrier Sébastien
Published: November 2018

The properties and structures of viruses are directly related to the three‐dimensional structure of their capsid proteins, which arises from a combination of hydrophobic and supramolecular interactions, such as hydrogen bonds. The design of synthetic materials demonstrating similar synergistic interactions still remains a challenge. Herein, we report the synthesis of a polymer/cyclic peptide conjugate that combines the capability to form supramolecular nanotubes via hydrogen bonds with the properties of an amphiphilic block copolymer. The analysis of aqueous solutions by scattering and imaging techniques revealed a barrel‐shaped alignment of single peptide nanotubes into a large tubisome (length: 260 nm (from SANS)) with a hydrophobic core (diameter: 16 nm) and a hydrophilic shell. These systems, which have a structure that is similar to those of viruses, were tested in vitro to elucidate their activity on cells. Remarkably, the rigid tubisomes are able to perforate the lysosomal membrane in cells and release a small molecule into the cytosol.
Concentrating Immiscible Molecules at Solid@MOF Interfacial Nanocavities to Drive an Inert Gas–Liquid Reaction at Ambient Conditions
Authors: Sim Howard Yi Fan , Lee Hiang Kwee , Han Xuemei , Koh Charlynn Sher Lin , Phan‐Quang Gia Chuong , Lay Chee Leng , Kao Ya‐Chuan , Phang In Yee , Yeow Edwin K. L. , Ling Xing Yi
Published: November 2018

Gas–liquid reactions form the basis of our everyday lives, yet they still suffer poor reaction efficiency and are difficult to monitor in situ, especially at ambient conditions. Now, an inert gas–liquid reaction between aniline and CO2 is driven at 1 atm and 298 K by selectively concentrating these immiscible reactants at the interface between metal–organic framework and solid nanoparticles (solid@MOF). Real‐time reaction SERS monitoring and simulations affirm the formation of phenylcarbamic acid, which was previously undetectable because they are unstable for post‐reaction treatments. The solid@MOF ensemble gives rise to a more than 28‐fold improvement to reaction efficiency as compared to ZIF‐only and solid‐only platforms, emphasizing that the interfacial nanocavities in solid@MOF are the key to enhance the gas–liquid reaction. Our strategy can be integrated with other functional materials, thus opening up new opportunities for ambient‐operated gas–liquid applications.
Asymmetric Total Synthesis of Brasilicardins
Authors: Yoshimura Fumihiko , Itoh Ryusei , Torizuka Makoto , Mori Genki , Tanino Keiji
Published: November 2018

Brasilicardins, bacterial diterpenoid natural products that display highly potent immunosuppressive activity, are promising immunosuppressant drug candidates. Structurally, they can be described as hybrids of terpenoids, amino acids, and saccharides, and share a characteristic highly strained anti‐syn‐anti‐fused perhydrophenanthrene terpenoid scaffold (ABC‐ring system) with two quaternary asymmetric carbon atoms. A unified and stereoselective total synthesis of all four brasilicardins has been designed based on the strategic use of an intramolecular conjugate addition. The ABC‐ring system was initially constructed with high stereocontrol by novel intramolecular conjugate additions of Weinreb amides and in situ generated (Z)‐vinyl copper species. The late‐stage common intermediate was subjected to stereoselective installation of the amino acid component, followed by introduction of the saccharide unit via glycosylation to accomplish the total synthesis of brasilicardins A–D. Our synthesis offers opportunities to synthesize various brasilicardin analogues for biological and pharmacological investigations.