bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Sulfur Dioxide on Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide Concentration in the Child Residents of Miyakejima Island
Authors: Iwasawa Satoko , Tsuboi Tazuru , Nakano Makiko , Hirata Aya , Yoshioka Noriyuki , Suzuki Satoko , Tanaka Shigeru , Omae Kazuyuki
Published: July 2019

The island of Miyakejima in Japan is subject to ongoing emissions of volcanic gases, including high concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO2). Annual health checkups on the island, therefore, include the examination of respiratory system parameters. Here, we aimed to investigate the relationship between SO2 exposure and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) concentration among children who received health checkups from 2008 to 2014. The subjects were 83 and 31 second-year junior high school students aged 13–14 years who resided on Miyakejima island and an SO2-free reference island, respectively. SO2 concentration in the air was measured at 6 fixed-point monitoring stations. FeNO was examined according to the American Thoracic Society guideline and European Respiratory Society recommendations for standardized procedures. Average concentrations of SO2 on Miyakejima over a period of 3 months prior to each health checkup from 2008 to 2014 were 22.2, 20.6, 8.9, 10.5, 10.7, 4.4 and 8.0 ppb, respectively. Among the Miyakejima students, geometric mean (GM) FeNO concentrations measured at each health checkup from 2008 to 2014 were 28.2, 18.2, 23.6, 35.5, 36.9, 28.1, and 32.1 ppb. The GM FeNO concentration measured from all Miyakejima students across the study period was 28.3ppb. No clear dose-response relationship was observed. The GM FeNO concentration among the students from the reference island was 27.7ppb in 2017. No significant difference was observed between the two populations, even when the data was stratified by sex and sensitivity. There was no clear significant difference in GM of FeNO concentration between Miyakejima and control students, when the average concentration of SO2 over a period of 3 months was 22ppb or less.
Prosecution of Offenders in Liquid Fuels Turnover
Authors: Siminska-Domańska Katarzyna Paulina
Published: July 2019

The paper presents theoretical and practical aspects of prosecution of criminals involved in illegal sales of liquid fuels. It has been noticed that despite increasing attention paid to the prosecution of fuel frauds, the grey area still exists, which is due to the fact that such crimes are easy to commit, the profits to be gained are enormous, and legal consequences are rather insignificant. Recently, however, the detectability of tax frauds has increased. The improved efficiency of tax control authorities can be attributed to the introduction of the following: methodology of assessment of due diligence demonstrated by the buyers of goods in domestic transactions; JPK – the Polish equivalent of SAF-T (Standard Audit File for Tax); split payment; SENT system; fuel package.
Serious Violation of Workers’ Rights in a Situation when Employees Refrain from Work due to Employer’s Failure to Provide Safe and Hygienic Working Conditions
Authors: Więckowska Wioleta , Jasion Marek
Published: July 2019

The paper examines a situation in which an employee is entitled to terminate the contract of employment without prior notice. The case under examination occurs when the employer commits a serious violation of workers’ rights by failing to provide safe and hygienic working conditions. The paper also presents topic related controversies that have arisen in the doctrine and judicature and tries to establish at which point one may speak of a breach of fundamental labour rights and on the basis of which regulations the employer may be held liable. The authors also try to determine whether certain situations could constitute a basis for termination of the employment contract by the employee, at the same time giving rise to the right to claim damages from the employer. Other issues touched upon in the paper include the absence of a catalogue of infringements in the Polish Labour Code and the way of assessing the weight of various infringements.
Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies - legal and tax aspects
Authors: Słapczyński Tomasz
Published: July 2019

The main objective of the paper is to provide an answer to the question whether new technologies such as blockchain that enter various spheres of public life are safe for users and what impact they have on national legislations. Cryptocurrencies, which are based on blockchain technology, can be used as a means of payment, investment or capital accumulation. Therefore, blockchain becomes more and more popular. The main research method used in the paper consists of the analysis of legislation and jurisprudence as well as linguistic and purposive interpretation which affects the functioning of blockchain and cryptocurrencies. The introductory part of the paper contains a general historical outline and basic principles related to blockchain technology. Real and potential threats posed by the discussed technology are also discussed in the paper as well as the question whether governments or, more broadly, the international community, offer sufficient level of protection against risks related to the use of new technologies such as blockchain and cryptocurrencies. Using blockchain to streamline logistic activities or to speed up transactions is useful in itself, but in the hands of private entities the technology may pose a risk of losing funds if not properly secured. The financial market is and should be supervised and controlled by the state which is the guarantor of economic freedom. Another vital question is whether legislators keep up with the advances in technology. It seems that the development of blockchain technology triggers development of new legal regulations. The more blockchain technology enters everyday life, the more legal documents appear in the form of case law, legal provisions, opinions etc. The role of these documents is to regulate, define and specify new technologies as they appear.
Suicyde and Internet addiction - psychological perspective
Authors: Stradomska Marlena
Published: July 2019

The subject matter of the paper lies on the borderline of two important social problems i.e. Internet addiction and suicide. The problem of suicide is still treated as a social taboo in contemporary world. Those who have attempted to kill themselves as well as their families are discriminated and ill-treated by their immediate environment and driven into inferiority complex. Every so often the only option left to such people is the Internet that offers an attentive ear and consolation because the access to professional help in the real world may be limited in a given place and in a given moment. On the Internet one may talk and exchange information on any topic at any time of night and day. The Internet is a cheap and widely available platform offering websites, chat rooms, forums and support groups for people experiencing the same problems. It should be emphasized however, that there are dark corners on the Internet which should not be visited by wide audiences. Some online contents are just not well-adjusted to the development age of young Internet users. This paper is a discussion of a metaphoric and literal aspect of suicide on the Internet and a call for more scientific research, educational campaigns and psychoprophylaxis related to the subject matter of suicide and self-destruction. The author emphasizes the necessity to raise awareness to the issue of suicide which is still a social taboo and subject to social myths. Although many specialist facilities, associations and institutions are already involved in addressing the problem, the number of suicide attempts has not been reduced mainly because the activities undertaken are scattered and badly coordinated. The effects of these efforts are not satisfactory neither for theoreticians nor for practitioners.
Fundamental issues related to cooperation of rescue entities
Authors: Kogut Bogdan , Ziobro Jan
Published: July 2019

The study presents the subject matter of joint ventures of rescue entities on the example of the State Fire Service and the National Emergency and Fire System. The study defines the term ‘public safety’ which is understood as living in such an environment in which citizens do not feel threat to their existence or to their basic life interests. The responsibility of the state is to provide formal, institutional and practical guarantees of protection within the socially acceptable levels of risk. On this basis, the paper presents the scope of cooperation of the above entities, analyzes applied solutions related to the organization of this cooperation and evaluates their efficiency.
“M@dNotes Project”. Giving colour to Grey Literature
Authors: Báez Miguel Pizzanelli , Jamoulle Marc
Published: July 2019

Sharing the results of research and scientific production is crucial for the survival and development of all disciplines. Health information is becoming uncertain and powerful economic interests disrupting medical information has triggered a loss of credibility. M@dNotes project (in Spanish NotasL@cas), is the by-product of nonprofit collaborative international knowledge network with participation of students, general practitioners, family physicians, and healthcare workers. One of the aims of this network is to discuss the validity of the information available on sensitive subjects and build a knowledge exchange network inside a community of practice. It has been created to share different materials excluded from traditional academic publishing and commercial distribution channels: monographic reports, commented articles, files with references searches. These materials product of learning process are qualified with an appropriate level because there were submitted to a peer review or judged by a scientific committee to get an approval. Includes an indexing method (Q Codes and ICPC) to manage and retrieve the materials received. The project provides a particular folder to upload and share the documents. A web blog is the dissemination friendly tool or interface to share and retrieve the documents available in the network. Through a facility in the cloud, it is possible to access an excel file with all the materials shared, codes assigned and the hyperlink to get a pdf file of each material.
Lietuvių kalbos pastoviųjų junginių gramatinis variantiškumas
Authors: Bielinskienė Agnė , Kovalevskaitė Jolanta , Rimkutė Erika , Vilkaitė-Lozdienė Laura
Published: July 2019

Straipsnyje analizuojamas dviejų pastoviųjų junginių tipų – kolokacijų ir frazeologizmų – gramatinis variantiškumas. Pastovieji junginiai automatiškai nustatyti iš DELFI.lt tekstyno. Pastebėta, kad pastovieji junginiai tekstyne vartojami įvairiomis formomis, kurios negali būti laikomos reguliariomis kaitybinėmis. Gramatinis variantiškumas suskirstytas į 1) darybinį (kai viename junginyje pavartotas priešdėlis ar priesaga, o kitame, laikytiname variantu, nėra priešdėlio ar priesagos, pvz.: kilimo takas – pakilimo takas; ekonomikos krizė – ekonominė krizė; nutekėjo protai – protų nutekėjimas; 2) morfologinį (kai varijuoja skaičiaus, giminės, dalyvių rūšies ir kt. gramatinės kategorijos, pvz.: euro įvedimas – euro įsivedimas; komisijos narys – komisijos narė; vykdomasis direktorius – vykdantysis direktorius) ir 3) sintaksinį (kai varijuoja linksniai, prielinksniai, pvz., gauti naudą – gauti naudos; išskėstomis rankomis – su išskėstomis rankomis; ar įsiterpia žodžių, pvz., aistringas [beisbolo] gerbėjas, keičiasi žodžių tvarka, pvz.: minia žmonių – žmonių minia). Didesniu gramatiniu variantiškumu pasižymi kolokacijos, be to, jų rasta daug daugiau nei frazeologizmų (iš viso išanalizuota apie 14 tūkst. pastoviųjų junginių), todėl gramatinis variantiškumas dažniau iliustruotas pavyzdžiais su kolokacijomis. Straipsnyje gramatinis variantiškumas aprašomas kokybiškai, nes iki šiol lietuvių kalbos pastoviųjų junginių gramatinis variantiškumas tirtas mažai, todėl svarbu aprašyti patį reiškinį, pateikti jo klasifikaciją.
Ar emigrantų kalba patiria atriciją?
Authors: Vilkienė Loreta
Published: July 2019

Straipsnyje ieškoma atsakymo į klausimas, ar lietuvių, emigravusių ilgiau nei 5 metus, gimtoji kalba patiria atriciją. Analizuojamos 61 emigranto ir 61 neemigravusio asmens (kontrolinės grupės) C testo atliktys, kurios buvo surinktos vykdant projektą Emigrantų kalba: mokėjimas, vartojimas, nykimas (2015–2017 m.).  Abiejų grupių rezultatai palyginami taikant Stjudento t statistinį kriterijų ir atliekant klaidų analizę. C testo atlikčių analizė atskleidė, kad emigrantų ir kontrolinės grupės bendrieji rezultatai skiriasi – lengviau su testu susidoroja kontrolinė grupė, o, kaip rodo T testu atlikta duomenų analizė, skirtumas tarp emigrantų viso testo rezultatų statistiškai reikšmingas. Be to, statistiškai reikšmingi skirtumai ir tarp kiekvienos užduoties rezultatų. Kalbant apie klaidų pobūdį pasakytina, kad tiek gramatikos, tiek leksikos ar rašybos klaidų emigrantų grupė darė akivaizdžiai daugiau nei kontrolinė grupė. Visa tai leidžia daryti prielaidą, kad tiriamųjų grupė patiria gimtosios lietuvių kalbos atriciją.
Inteligencia emocional y rendimiento académico en alumnos de educación secundaria obligatoria
Authors: Broc Cavero Miguel Ángel
Published: July 2019

RESUMENEste trabajo pretendió utilizar el Inventario de Cociente Emocional en su versión para adolescentes EQ-i:YV, de Bar-On adaptado a la población española por investigadores de la universidad de Murcia en 2012, a una muestra de 345 alumnos de educación secundaria obligatoria (ESO) en un centro público de Zaragoza, con un alto nivel de inmigración y diversidad. Mediante un diseño correlacional “ex post facto”, se analizó la influencia que variables independientes ejercían sobre la variable dependiente número de suspensos. Igualmente se llevaron a cabo análisis de varianza y otros análisis mediante el programa SPSS versión 22 y Lisrel 8.51, encontrando que los datos son similares a los obtenidos en el trabajo original, que los varones aventajan a las mujeres en el factor estado de ánimo y adaptabilidad y que éstas aventajan a aquellos en el factor interpersonal y en rendimiento académico. Los análisis de regresión muestran que solamente los factores Interpersonal y Manejo del estrés entran en la ecuación de predicción, con correlaciones positivas pero bajas que explican poca cantidad de varianza, y que casi no hay diferencias en los factores en los cuatro cursos de la etapa, sugiriéndose una conceptualización más cercana a la teoría de los rasgos, o una interpretación más laxa en cuanto al desarrollo emocional se refiere. La conclusión final es que este constructo tal vez haya sido algo sobredimensionado y no tenga tanta relevancia en el rendimiento académico como han pretendido algunos autores.ABSTRACTThis work aimed to use the Bar-On EQ-i:YV Emotional Quotient Inventory: Young Versión, adapted to the Spanish population by researchers of the University of Murcia in 2012, to a sample of 345 students of Compulsory Secondary Education (CSE) in a public center in Zaragoza, with a high level of immigration and diversity. Through an "ex post facto" correlation design, we analyzed the influence that independent variables exerted on the dependent variable number of suspended subjects. Likewise, variance analysis, among others were carried out using the SPSS version 22 and Lisrel 8.51 program, finding that the data are similar to those obtained in the original study, that men outperform women in the factor of mood and adaptability, and that these outweigh those in the interpersonal factor and in academic achievement. Regression analysis show that only the Interpersonal and Stress Management factors enter into the prediction equation, with positive but low correlations that explain little amount of variance, and that there are almost no differences in the factors in the four courses of the this educational stage, suggesting a conceptualization closer to the theory of traits, or a more lax interpretation in terms of emotional development. The final conclusion is that this construct may have been somewhat oversized and does not have as much relevance in academic performance as some authors have claimed.
Eco-Economic Systems of Russian Agriculture: Statistical Analysis
Authors: Dumnov Aleksandr Dmitrievich , Khoruzhi Lyudmila Ivanovna , Kharitonova Anna Evgen'evna , Ukolova Anna Vladimirovna , Skachkova Svetlana Aleksandrovna
Published: July 2019

Over the recent 25 years Russia has experienced economic transformations that significantly have changed the impact of business activities on the state, structure, quality and use of natural resources: an annual decrease in the sizes of agriculturally used areas, reduction of soil fertility, destruction of the amelioration system, etc. Certainly, all this affects the economy and makes it necessary to investigate these interrelated processes in the context of an ecological-economic system. The article presents a multilateral statistical analysis of the eco-economic system of Russia, offers recommendations for improvement of the indicator system, analytical methodologies as well as proposals for implementation of the international standards into Russian statistics. It is emphasized that the asset value accounting philosophy should be developed on the basis of the specific nature of Russian statistics with application of the international practices. The article offers to start developing the macroeconomic accounts from the municipal level and then to aggregate the information at the level of a region and the country.
Revisitando os clássicos da moderna teoria de finanças: uma análise
Authors: Costa Danilo de Melo
Published: July 2019

A Moderna Teoria de Finanças teve seu desenvolvimento durante os últimos 60 anos, com as contribuições de diversos autores e a formulação de várias teorias. Entretanto, devido a um tradicionalismo presente na área e de uma restrição ligando a área de finanças a imensas fórmulas matemáticas e econométricas, muitos pesquisadores desistem de compreender as mais variadas facetas contidas nesta área. Partindo desta premissa, buscou-se no presente artigo apresentar os principais clássicos da Moderna Teoria de Finanças em uma forma compreensível a qualquer área do conhecimento. Neste artigo, são descritas as contribuições de Markowitz (Seleção de Portfólios), os estudos de Modigliani e Miller (Teoria da Estrutura e do Custo de Capital), o desenvolvimento do CAPM por meio dos estudos de Sharpe, Lintner e Mossin, as contribuições de Fama e Brown (Hipótese de Mercados Eficientes), a quebra de paradigma trazida por Tversky e Kahneman (Finanças Comportamentais), além da Teoria da Agência, conforme estudos de Jensen, Meckling e Myers. Revisitar os clássicos da Moderna Teoria de Finanças comprovou a transformação sofrida pela área e demonstra a todos os pesquisadores e interessados, que esta área, tida como tradicional durante vários anos, esta agora aberta a novas ideias, a novos paradigmas e a todos os tipos de contribuições.
Satisfação versus importância: um estudo com clientes industriais
Authors: Mesquita Paulo Carvalho , Bouzada Marco Aurélio Carino
Published: July 2019

O objetivo deste trabalho foi descobrir quais são os aspectos mais importantes da satisfação na avaliação final dos clientes industriais da Parker atendidos via Distribuidores Autorizados e checar a adequação da satisfação em relação à importância dos diversos atributos relacionados aos processos de compras industriais. Para tal, diversos aspectos no âmbito das compras industriais foram apresentados na Revisão de Literatura e, para cada um deles, foram construídas Matrizes de Slack, contrapondo satisfação e importância de cada aspecto, mas na forma de um “retângulo de confiança”. Os resultados mostraram que a situação mais preocupante diz respeito aos aspectos relacionados à Entrega, dentro do qual se destaca negativamente o cumprimento dos prazos de entrega, item que requer ação urgente por parte do fornecedor, na opinião dos clientes. O fornecedor encontra-se mais confortável nos aspectos relacionados à Documentação do processo de aquisição, considerados adequados no balanço entre satisfação e importância. Como conclusão, foi possível apontar a importância de priorizar ações a serem tomadas pelos Distribuidores Autorizados no sentido de corretamente aplicar os valores disponíveis para melhoria de atendimento, investindo-os na proporção adequada e contribuindo, portanto, para a maior qualidade no atendimento dos clientes industriais, exatamente naqueles aspectos onde eles desejam ser mais bem atendidos.
Voix d’élèves en difficulté dans un dispositif d’entretien télévisé
Authors: Collin-Vallée Tommy , Fortier-Moreau Geneviève , Merri Maryvonne
Published: July 2019

Les travaux anglo-saxons sur la Student voice (Cook-Sather, 2002; Fielding, 2007) se préoccupent des conditions permettant aux élèves d’exprimer leurs expériences sur l’apprentissage, l’enseignement et la scolarité. Ils ont laissé en suspens la question de la voix des élèves à risque de décrochage scolaire dans des dispositifs extra-académiques. Nous proposons d’interroger ici la possibilité d’une prise de parole des élèves dans des dispositifs d’entretiens télévisés entre un élève, ses parents et une orthopédagogue. Ces entretiens sont extraits du docu-feuilleton québécois Les persévérants (Ferron et Baer, 2014) qui met en oeuvre un programme de prévention du décrochage scolaire. Notre démarche d’analyse des discours en interaction selon une approche structurelle et opératoire s’appuie sur le cadre de Davis (1986). Cette démarche se décline en deux étapes par la description : a) des thèmes et tâches accomplies dans chaque entretien et b) des opérations et procédés mis en oeuvre par l’orthopédagogue. Les résultats mettent en évidence que la parole des élèves permet la confirmation d’un problème préconçu par l’orthopédagogue et une légitimation de son expertise.
La prise de parole de jeunes adultes québécois à partir de séances de dessin libre dans une approche dialogique
Authors: Teixeira Marta
Published: July 2019

Cet article présente quelques résultats d’une étude-intervention à caractère qualitatif et exploratoire menée auprès de jeunes Québécois inscrits à un Centre d’éducation aux adultes. L’intervention consistait à mettre en place des séances de dessin libre, où les élèves étaient invités à prendre la parole afin d’expliciter et d’interpréter eux-mêmes leurs dessins à partir d’une entrevue semi-structurée (Stoltz, 1992; Teixeira, 2008). Nous nous appuyons sur le concept égalitaire de l’être humain selon le principe de l’action dialogique de Freire (1982) et adoptons le concept d’intelligence piagétien. L’analyse d’extraits de verbatim par repérage d’unités de sens indique que la compréhension progressive des participants quant aux liens entre leurs dessins et leur vie les a amenés à prendre conscience de leurs capacités créatrices, intellectuelles et de prise de parole. Leurs propos sur la sous-estimation de leur intelligence durant le parcours scolaire nous invitent à réfléchir sur des nouvelles pistes de recherche.
Parcours de jeunes en difficulté et liens sociaux
Authors: Desmarais Danielle , Cauvier Johanne
Published: July 2019

La rupture avec l’école constitue aujourd’hui un problème social que nous proposons d’éclairer par un examen des liens sociaux inscrits dans une perspective globale du développement humain, à chaque étape de vie. À partir d’entretiens biographiques, nous nous intéressons à un sous-groupe de six jeunes adultes de la grande région de Montréal qui ont en commun d’avoir été abandonnés par leurs parents et pris en charge par des familles d’accueil ou par un centre jeunesse avant de fréquenter un organisme communautaire. Avant leur rupture avec l’école, ces jeunes ont accumulé de graves difficultés et de multiples ruptures dans leur milieu de vie ainsi que dans l’espace scolaire. L’analyse des entretiens biographiques a montré les liens entre les difficultés affectives, cognitives et sociorelationnelles vécues par les jeunes ainsi que la porosité des espaces sociaux dans l’expérience relationnelle. Ces jeunes sont marqués par des blessures morales infligées par un déni de reconnaissance. A contrario, dans l’étape de vie actuelle, certaines expériences font apparaître des signes de reconnaissance vécus par les jeunes adultes, notamment la fréquentation d’un organisme communautaire autonome. Cette fréquentation comporte plusieurs facettes participant à leur développement : construction de nouvelles amitiés, création de liens avec les pairs grâce à la participation à des activités intéressantes, autonomisation, sollicitude, etc.
L’analyse des récits d’expériences de persévérance scolaire d’élèves du secondaire du nord-ouest d’Haïti
Authors: Botondo Jacques , Hensler Hélène , Mazalon Élisabeth
Published: July 2019

Cet article aborde la lutte contre le décrochage en tentant de cerner les différents facteurs qui contribuent à la persévérance scolaire d’élèves du secondaire dans un contexte socioéconomique défavorisé, où les risques de décrochage sont omniprésents. Il se base sur les récits et observations d’expériences de persévérance scolaire recueillis dans le cadre d’une recherche réalisée en Haïti auprès de 12 élèves haïtiens vulnérables, mais performants, au secondaire. L’étude, menée selon une approche ethnographique et faisant appel à trois modes de collecte des données, privilégie une forme d’analyse des récits permettant de comprendre le rôle de l’élève en tant qu’acteur et de mettre au jour des moyens pour soutenir la persévérance et la réussite scolaires. Elle met en relief l’importance du sens de la responsabilité, de la capacité à apprendre et de l’estime de soi comme facteurs de la persévérance et de la réussite scolaires.
Que faire de la parole des élèves? La professionnalité enseignante à l’épreuve des dispositifs de prévention du décrochage
Authors: Bongrand Philippe , Ponté Pascale
Published: July 2019

Pour prévenir ou résoudre les processus de décrochage scolaire, les politiques éducatives françaises promeuvent des dispositifs suscitant la parole des élèves (tutorat, accompagnement). Ces dispositifs, vecteurs de « personnalisation » de l’enseignement, envisagent la parole de l’élève d’une manière alternative à la forme scolaire dominante. Pour étudier l’appropriation de ces dispositifs par les agents chargés de leur mise en oeuvre, nous avons soumis à des membres du corps professoral, lors d’une formation à la prévention du décrochage, un questionnaire évaluant la pertinence de différents outils les incitant à travailler sur la parole des élèves. Nous constatons que, pour ces enseignantes et enseignants, ces outils apparaissent secondaires, subsidiaires ou chronophages, à la périphérie de leur territoire professionnel. Nous montrons que ces outils sont envisagés avec des schèmes professionnels qui neutralisent leur portée.
Son propre son
Authors: Enkerli Alexandre
Published: July 2019

Cet article associe une notion d’appropriation technologique au travail sur/par le son. Il entend favoriser l’investissement du champ sonore de l’anthropologie en décrivant l’appropriation sonore par le bricolage numérique. Inspiré en partie par une exploration personnelle des possibilités musicales de l’ordinateur Raspberry Pi, ce texte présente des approches et des méthodes d’appropriation du son lui-même par les membres de la sphère Maker. Les « appropriations » (du sonore et du technologique) dont il est question constituent des formes émergeantes au coeur d’une pratique largement personnalisée, mais inscrite dans un univers social particulier de collaboration ouverte. En produisant son propre son, le bricolage numérique transforme l’environnement acoustique et lui donne un sens.
The autophagic membrane tether ATG2A transfers lipids between membranes
Authors: Maeda Shintaro , Otomo Chinatsu , Otomo Takanori
Published: July 2019

An enigmatic step in de novo formation of the autophagosome membrane compartment is the expansion of the precursor membrane phagophore, which requires the acquisition of lipids to serve as building blocks. Autophagy-related 2 (ATG2), the rod-shaped protein that tethers phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P)-enriched phagophores to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), is suggested to be essential for phagophore expansion, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that human ATG2A is a lipid transfer protein. ATG2A can extract lipids from membrane vesicles and unload them to other vesicles. Lipid transfer by ATG2A is more efficient between tethered vesicles than between untethered vesicles. The PI3P effectors WIPI4 and WIPI1 associate ATG2A stably to PI3P-containing vesicles, thereby facilitating ATG2A-mediated tethering and lipid transfer between PI3P-containing vesicles and PI3P-free vesicles. Based on these results, we propose that ATG2-mediated transfer of lipids from the ER to the phagophore enables phagophore expansion.
Spread of the non-native anemone Anemonia alicemartinae Häussermann & Försterra, 2001 along the Humboldt-current large marine ecosystem: an ecological niche model approach
Authors: Pinochet Javier , Rivera Reinaldo , Neill Paula E. , Brante Antonio , Hernández Cristián E.
Published: July 2019

The geographical expansion of invasive species depends mainly on its dispersal potential, and the abiotic and biotic factors affecting it. Knowing the invasive dynamic of non-native species, as well as its behavior at different natural or anthropogenic scenarios, is fundamental for planning conservation management policies and control plans. The invasive sea anemone Anemonia alicemartinae in habits from the north (18°S) to the south-central (36°S) coast of Chile and its distribution range has expanded by approximately 1,928 km in the last 50 years. Previous works have proposed that human-mediated southward transport associated with regional-scale maritime activities could explain its rapid spread. To evaluate this hypothesis, we used ecological niche models (ENM) to evaluate the potential colonization of the southernmost area of South America. Additionally, we conducted a post hoc analysis to evaluate the relationship between the prediction of the ENM and human activity measured as the number of landings of ships in ports. The models were built based on presence records of A. alicemartinae, and oceanographic variables. Results showed that sea surface salinity and annual sea surface temperature (variance) are the best predictor variables to explain the distribution of A. alicemartinae. There was a positive and significant relationship between the geographical distribution of the sea anemone predicted by the ENM and the number of landings, as a proxy of anthropogenic activity. The most susceptible areas to invasion were those that showed the highest variability in both oceanographic predictors. These areas included the Biobío region, Chiloé´s inland sea, Aysén, and Chacabuco regions, which together comprise two biogeographical provinces. These results sustain the proposed hypothesis and, overall, the results suggest that along with the characteristics of the life history of A. alicemartinae, oceanographic conditions and maritime transport as vector contribute to the southern range expansion of this invasive cryptogenic species in the Humboldt-current large marine ecosystem.
A new species of the Asian music frog genus Nidirana (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae) from Southwestern China
Authors: Li Shize , Wei Gang , Xu Ning , Cui Jianguo , Fei Liang , Jiang Jianping , Liu Jing , Wang Bin
Published: July 2019

The Asian music frog genus Nidirana is widely distributed in East and Southeastern Asia. Systematic profiles of the group remain on debate, and cryptic species are expected especially in the species with wide distributional range. Here, we describe a new species of the genus from Southwestern China. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA supported the new species as an independent clade nested into the Nidirana clade and sister to N. hainanensis. Morphologically, the new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: a large body size in males (SVL > 49 mm); the presence of lateroventral grooves both on fingers and toes; relative finger lengths: II < IV < I < III; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level between eye and nostril when leg stretched forward; a pair of subgular internal vocal sacs at corners of throat in males; nuptial pad present on the inner side of base of fingers I and II in males in breading season; webbing formula: I 2 –21/3 II 2 –22/3 III 31/2 –32/3 IV 32/3 –3V. The findings provided a better knowledge on phylogenetic assignments of the genus Nidirana, and indicated future deeper investigations necessarily for exploring systematic settings of the group.
Morphology and development of a novel murine skeletal dysplasia
Authors: Marchini Marta , Silva Hernandez Elizabeth , Rolian Campbell
Published: July 2019

Background

Limb bones develop and grow by endochondral ossification, which is regulated by specific cell and molecular pathways. Changes in one or more of these pathways can have severe effects on normal skeletal development, leading to skeletal dysplasias. Many skeletal dysplasias are known to result from mis-expression of major genes involved in skeletal development, but the etiology of many skeletal dysplasias remains unknown. We investigated the morphology and development of a mouse line with an uncharacterized mutation exhibiting a skeletal dysplasia-like phenotype (Nabo).

Methods

We used µCT scanning and histology to comprehensively characterize the phenotype and its development, and to determine the developmental stage when this phenotype first appears.

Results

Nabo mice have shorter limb elements compared to wildtype mice, while clavicles and dermal bones of the skull are not affected. Nabo embryos at embryonic stage E14 show shorter limb cartilage condensations. The tibial growth plate in Nabo mice is wider than in wildtype, particularly in the proliferative zone, however proliferative chondrocytes show less activity than wildtype mice. Cell proliferation assays and immunohistochemistry against the chondrogenic marker Sox9 suggest relatively lower, spatially-restricted, chondrocyte proliferation activity in Nabo. Bone volume and trabecular thickness in Nabo tibiae are also decreased compared to wildtype.

Discussion

Our data suggest that the Nabo mutation affects endochondral ossification only, with the strongest effects manifesting in more proximal limb structures. The phenotype appears before embryonic stage E14, suggesting that outgrowth and patterning processes may be affected. Nabo mice present a combination of skeletal dysplasia-like characteristics not present in any known skeletal dysplasia. Further genomic and molecular analysis will help to identify the genetic basis and precise developmental pathways involved in this unique skeletal dysplasia.
Molecular characterization of nearshore baitfish populations in Bermuda to inform management
Authors: Goodbody-Gringley Gretchen , Strand Emma , Pitt Joanna M.
Published: July 2019

Small-bodied marine fishes play an important role in the food web, feeding both larger fishes and seabirds. Often referred to as baitfishes, they concentrate seasonally in coastal areas in large, often heterospecific assemblages that are targeted by both commercial and recreational fishers. Given apparent declines in at least some of Bermuda’s baitfish species over the past 40 years, it is useful to determine the species composition of baitfish assemblages, and how it varies among sites, in order to inform management. Using genetic barcoding of the Cytochrome c oxidase 1 gene (COI), we confirm species identity, assess intraspecific genetic diversity locally, and determine rates of broader genetic connectivity for baitfish assemblages in Bermuda. Species analyzed includedHypoatherina harringtonensis,Anchoa choerostoma,Jenkinsia lamprotaenia,Harengula humeralis,Opisthonema oglinumandSardinella aurita. Species identification based on molecular barcoding revealed some misidentification of individuals based solely on gross morphological characteristics, with an error rate of 11%, validating the usefulness of this approach. Interestingly, sequence results for the endemic Bermuda anchovy,A. choerostoma, were within 1% similarity to the more broadly distributed big-eye anchovy,A. lamprotaenia, and thus additional analyses are warranted to evaluate the genetic basis for endemism. Estimates of genetic diversity within and among baitfish assemblages in Bermuda were high, indicating high rates of local connectivity among sites for all species. As such, management should consider Bermuda’s baitfish species as single, highly mixed populations. However, with the exception ofH. humeralisand the endemicA. choerostoma, significant genetic differentiation and population structure were found when comparing Bermuda’s baitfish populations with those from other regions, suggesting limited gene flow between other regions and Bermuda for these species. Limited regional connectivity has implications for management, as strong genetic divergence suggests that populations in Bermuda are predominantly self-seeding and thus not likely to be replenished from distant populations. These results therefore support precautionary management of baitfish species in Bermuda.
colocr: an R package for conducting co-localization analysis on fluorescence microscopy images
Authors: Ahmed Mahmoud , Lai Trang Huyen , Kim Deok Ryong
Published: July 2019

Background

The co-localization analysis of fluorescence microscopy images is a widely used technique in biological research. It is often used to determine the co-distribution of two proteins inside the cell, suggesting that these two proteins could be functionally or physically associated. The limiting step in conducting microscopy image analysis in a graphical interface tool is the selection of the regions of interest for the co-localization of two proteins.

Implementation

This package provides a simple straightforward workflow for loading fluorescence images, choosing regions of interest and calculating co-localization measurements. Included in the package is a shiny app that can be invoked locally to interactively select the regions of interest where two proteins are co-localized.

Availability

colocr is available on the comprehensive R archive network, and the source code is available on GitHub under the GPL-3 license as part of the ROpenSci collection, https://github.com/ropensci/colocr.
Cerebral Cortical Damage in Adult Wistar Rats Following Aluminium Chloride Administration
Authors: Ajibade A. J. , Fakunle P. B. , Omoola O. O.
Published: July 2019

This study investigated some effects of aluminium chloride on the cerebral cortex of adult Wistar rats. Aluminium chloride as one of the toxic metals has been known to be one of the major environmental pollutants across the world which has been reported in relation to Neurodegenerative diseases (ND) associated with metallic intoxication. It is present in many pharmaceutical drugs, food products and also used in the treatment of domestic water being involved in skeletal, haematological and neurological diseases.

Thirty-two adult Wistar of both sexes weighing between 143 g-189 g were randomly grouped into four groups, group A, B, C and D each group containing 8 rats. Group A rats which were the controls, were maintained on standard feed (grower mash) and water for 21 days. Rats in group B, C and D were treated with 0.2 g/kg, 0.4 g/kg and 0.6 g/kg of aluminium chloride respectively for 21days. The aluminium chloride solution was administered orally on a daily basis for that period.

The weight of the Wistar rats was recorded on a weekly basis (before and at the end of each week of administration). On the 22nd day the Wistar rats in group A, B, C and D were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, blood was collected through cardiac puncture, the brain was removed and weighed immediately using sensitive balance, part of the brain of all Wistar rats in each group was collected and homogenized for biochemical analysis, the remaining part was then fixed in 10% formol saline, the tissue was processed and sectioned at 5µm and stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histological study.

Results showed that the mean body weights of the Wistar rats significantly increased in the treated groups when compared with the control group. The mean brain weights of the aluminium- treated groups showed insignificant decreased (P>0.05) when compared to the control group. In the biochemical analysis, there was a statistically significant increase (P<0.05) in the level of Malondialdehyde (MDA) in the aluminium-treated groups, and a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the level of Superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Succinate Dehydrogenase  (SDH) in the aluminium treated group. Histological study of the brain (cerebral cortex) revealed that the cerebral cortical layers of the aluminium treated groups appeared distorted and degenerated, in a dose-dependent manner. The study concluded that aluminium chloride has a neurotoxic effect on the cerebral cortex of adult Wistar rats which invariably may alter some cerebral functions.
Análise do padrão de consumo de álcool em usuários da Unidade Básica de Saúde Santo Antônio em São José do Rio Preto.
Authors: Sant´Anna Isabela Cristina Bueno , Dobbert Beatriz De Menezes , Fucuta Patrícia Da Silva
Published: July 2019

Introdução: o uso nocivo do álcool é um dos fatores de risco de maior impacto em todo o mundo. Segundo pesquisas nacionais, 12%
da população brasileira é dependente de álcool, representando uma parcela significativa da população atingida por esta problemática
que é um dos mais graves problemas de saúde pública. Objetivo: identificar o padrão de consumo de álcool entre usuários de um
serviço de Atenção Primária à Saúde. Metodologia: estudo descritivo com pacientes da Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS) Santo Antônio
em São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, através de aplicação de questionário AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) que foi
desenvolvido para rastrear o uso excessivo de álcool e quantificar o consumo e sintomas de dependência do alcoolismo. Foram incluídos
pacientes com idade maior ou igual a 18 anos e que aceitaram participar da pesquisa, assinando o Termo de Consentimento Livre e
Esclarecido. Resultados: no total, 163 participantes foram incluídos no estudo e os padrões de consumo encontrados foram: 44,4%
dos pacientes em zona I (baixo risco); 25,3% em zona II, 9,3% em zona III e 21% em zona IV. Conclusão: foi encontrada uma parcela
preocupante de pacientes com índice de uso nocivo e dependência de álcool entre pacientes de uma UBS no noroeste de São Paulo.
Este índice foi superior à média nacional. Estes dados serão divulgados junto às autoridades competentes, visando estimular ainda mais
a implantação de medidas que visem prevenção e promoção da saúde, quanto ao uso nocivo de bebidas alcoólicas junto à sociedade
Geografia do policiamento aéreo nas metrópoles brasileiras
Authors: Mendonça Márcio José
Published: July 2019

O artigo discorre sobre o processo de militarização do policiamento aéreo em curso no Brasil a partir de explorações em cinco metrópoles (Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Vitória, Brasília e Porto Alegre), que oferecem aporte analítico para afirmar que vivenciamos a produção de geografias aéreas militarizadas como ferramenta de patrulhamento aéreo e de combate urbano, no qual o helicóptero é empregado como uma arma de guerra. A pesquisa assim demonstra que no Brasil, tal como ocorre em outros lugares, a segurança pública faz uso da aviação policial para que, do espaço aéreo, realize operações militares, incutindo significados e percepções que metaforizam bairros populares, ruas e praças como campos de batalha, locais onde seus moradores e mobilizações populares são ameaçados por helicópteros policiais.

Abstract

GEOGRAPHY OF AIR POLICING IN THE BRAZILIAN METROPOLIS

The article discusses the process of militarization of air policing in Brazil from explorations in five metropolises (Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Vitória, Brasília and Porto Alegre), which offer an analytical contribution to affirm that we experience the production of geographies as a tool for air patrol and urban combat, in which the helicopter is used as a weapon of war. The research thus demonstrates that in Brazil, as in other places, public security makes use of police aviation to carry out military operations in the air space, inculcating meanings and perceptions that metaphor popular neighborhoods, streets and squares such as battlefields, places where its residents and popular mobilizations are threatened by police helicopters.
Urbanização extensiva, produção energética e justiça espacial em cidades pequenas gaúchas e catarinenses
Authors: Lemos João Henrique Zöehler , Catalão Igor
Published: July 2019

A urbanização, como processo socioespacial que, ao mesmo tempo, produz cidades e um modo de vida, tem-se ampliado continuamente desde a primeira revolução industrial. Muito do seu desenvolvimento e de sua ampliação estão relacionados à intensidade de geração de energia nos países, especialmente a elétrica. No Brasil, essa geração se dá, sobretudo, por meio de usinas hidrelétricas, situadas em cursos hídricos muitas vezes fora das grandes aglomerações metropolitanas. Propomos, neste artigo, debater as contradições que existem nas cidades pequenas frente à expansão da geração de energia elétrica, problematizando noções como desenvolvimento e justiça espacial. Nosso recorte analítico recai sobre duas usinas, Barra Grande e Itá, e particularmente nas quatro cidades pequenas que estão em suas adjacências: Anita Garibaldi e Itá em Santa Catarina; Pinhal da Serra e Aratiba no Rio Grande do Sul. A pesquisa apoiou-se em trabalhos de campo realizados nessas usinas e cidades, onde colhemos registros fotográficos e depoimentos de citadinos. Concluímos com observações acerca das disparidades nas quatro cidades trazidas pela implantação das usinas hidrelétricas, demarcando desafios a serem enfrentados.

Abstract

EXTENDED URBANISATION, ENERGY PRODUCTION AND SPATIAL JUSTICE IN SMALL CITIES OF RIO GRANDE DO SUL AND SANTA CATARINA

Urbanisation is a socio-spatial process that produces cities and a way of life. It has been spreading continuously since the first industrial revolution. Much of the urban development and growth is related to the intensity of energy production in countries worldwide, especially electric energy. In Brazil, the energy is mostly produced by hydroelectric plants, most of them located in rivers outside great metropolitan areas. In this paper, we aim to discuss the existing contradictions in small cities in view of the expansion of energy production in order to problematize notions such as development and spatial justice. Our analytical focus relies on two hydroelectric plants, Barra Grande and Itá, and particularly four small cities located nearby: Anita Garibaldi and Itá in Santa Catarina state; Pinhal da Serra and Aratiba in Rio Grande do Sul state. The research was based on fieldworks conducted in these cities and hydroelectric plants where we collected photographic records and citizens’ testimonies. We conclude by observing disparities in the fours mentioned cities brought up by the implementation of the hydroelectric plants and we highlight as well the challenges to be faced.