bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-Runaway Prevention System with Wireless Sensors for Intelligent Track Skates at Railway Stations
Authors: Jiang Chaozhe , Xu Yibo , Wen Chao , Chen Dilin
Published: December 2017

Anti-runaway prevention of rolling stocks at a railway station is essential in railway safety management. The traditional track skates for anti-runaway prevention of rolling stocks have some disadvantages since they are operated and monitored completely manually. This paper describes an anti-runaway prevention system (ARPS) based on intelligent track skates equipped with sensors and real-time monitoring and management system. This system, which has been updated from the traditional track skates, comprises four parts: intelligent track skates, a signal reader, a database station, and a monitoring system. This system can monitor the real-time situation of track skates without changing their workflow for anti-runaway prevention, and thus realize the integration of anti-runaway prevention information management. This system was successfully tested and practiced at Sunjia station in Harbin Railway Bureau in 2014, and the results confirmed that the system showed 100% accuracy in reflecting the usage status of the track skates. The system could meet practical demands, as it is highly reliable and supports long-distance communication.
Newspaper Coverage of Potable Water Recycling at Orange County Water District’s Groundwater Replenishment System, 2000–2016
Authors: Ormerod Kerri , Silvia Leann
Published: December 2017

Water planners in water-strapped communities in the western United States and beyond increasingly consider potable water recycling an important water management strategy. Although potable water recycling can increase an otherwise limited urban water supply, the threat of public or political opposition often looms large. This paper examines newspaper coverage of the most widely celebrated potable water reuse project in the world—the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS) in Orange County, California, USA. The case study examines the coverage of GWRS contained in local, national, and international newspapers during an era of significant investment and repeated expansion. Despite the potential controversy associated with drinking recycled wastewater, there was no negative newspaper coverage of GWRS from 2000–2016. Much of the coverage was mundane, however several articles embraced infrastructure and technology as key to developing new water resources while protecting public and environmental health. Although potable water recycling is presented as an innovative solution capable of solving several problems at once, a close analysis reveals that recycled water may not fulfill the promise of an uninterruptible urban water supply.
Factors Influencing Stormwater Mitigation in Permeable Pavement
Authors: Liu Chun , Chui Ting
Published: December 2017

Permeable pavement (PP) is used worldwide to mitigate surface runoff in urban areas. Various studies have examined the factors governing the hydrologic performance of PP. However, relatively little is known about the relative importance of these governing factors and the long-term hydrologic performance of PP. This study applied numerical models—calibrated and validated using existing experimental results—to simulate hundreds of event-based and two long-term rainfall scenarios for two designs of PP. Based on the event-based simulation results, rainfall intensity, rainfall volume, thickness of the storage layer and the hydraulic conductivity of the subgrade were identified as the most influential factors in PP runoff reduction. Over the long term, PP performed significantly better in a relatively drier climate (e.g., New York), reducing nearly 90% of runoff volume compared to 70% in a relatively wetter climate (e.g., Hong Kong). The two designs of PP examined performed differently, and the difference was more apparent in the relatively wetter climate. This study generated insights that will help the design and implementation of PP to mitigate stormwater worldwide.
Configuration of Capability Requirements - Introductory Phase of the Military Capability Assessment Process
Authors: Petráš Zdeněk
Published: December 2017

The article describes an approach to development of a national military capability requirements database and its relationship with reference units which will be finally used for assessing capabilities of existing force units. Outcomes from recently completed analyses lead to the conclusion that the single set of capability requirements as specified in the Bi-SC Agreed Capability Codes and Capability Statements, can be taken as a key stone for developing a national database of capability requirements. A due adaptation of this document to the Czech MOD allows getting a complex frame of capabilities which force units shall manage to achieve given operational tasks both in the context of a national or multinational task force group. Consequently such a database can be exploited for setting up a mechanism for capability assessment.
L’idéal, l’étrangeté et le fonctionnement familial autour du berceau
Authors: Mellier Denis
Published: December 2017

La naissance est un événement qui, plus que tout autre, mobilise les figures de l’idéal dans une famille. Dans cet article l’auteur montre que l’idéal qui porte l’enfant a comme autre face la radicale étrangeté du bébé. Le fonctionnement psychique familial qui s’organise autour du berceau se fonde sur cet antagonisme. À l’aide de vignettes cliniques issues de la méthode de l’observation du bébé selon Esther Bick l’auteur montre les enjeux de cette intime confrontation dans la famille lors des premiers jours après la naissance. Cette problématique qui touche très directement la mère ne peut trouver une issue que si l’on prend en considération la place réelle que prennent les autres membres de la famille, notamment le père et les grands-parents. La figure de l’idéal est ainsi centrale autour de la naissance, elle évolue ensuite en fonction des vicissitudes de la famille et du développement du bébé.
Parentalités contemporaines
Authors: Joubert Christiane
Published: December 2017

À partir d’une thérapie psychanalytique d’un couple homosexuel, l’auteur montre la transformation de l’image inconsciente du corps familial, au cours du processus, grâce à la dynamique transféro-contretransférentielle, au sein du néo-groupe (E. Granjon, 2005). L’enfant né par FIV, par l’intervention du corps médical, avec ses « deux mamans » trouvera un « berceau psychique » (F. Aubertel, 2006), en appui sur la figure grand-parentale bienveillante de l’analyste et aussi sur la communauté gay. L’auteur ouvre un questionnement final sur « la création d’embryons et donc de bébés sans aucun parent » dans le futur, à partir de l’article de L. Alexandre.
Voyage vers un futur déjà présent
Authors: Rosenblum Ouriel
Published: December 2017

Lors des consultations proposées par le médecin biologiste de la reproduction aux familles et aux jeunes filles en situation de préservation de cortex ovarien avant un traitement chimiothérapique qui conduit à leur castration, la présence d’un psychanalyste de la famille est requise. L’auteur propose d’analyser les idéaux des parents face au danger potentiel d’être des parents éternels, sans que leurs filles puissent concevoir, quelquefois au détriment de la préservation de leur enfance. Cet abord multidisciplinaire permet de réintroduire un projet pour la jeune fille qui est remise en place de sujet sexué de la transmission.
Lutter contre l’ordre des choses économiques
Authors: Baisnée Olivier , Nollet Jérémie
Published: December 2017

Pendant près d’un an, les 283 salariés de l’usine Molex de Villemur-sur-Tarn, un bourg de 5 700 habitants situé à 40 km de Toulouse, ont lutté contre la fermeture de l’usine qui leur est annoncée le 3 octobre 2008. Ils contestent le motif économique de leur licenciement, jugeant le site rentable. Résistant à une multinationale états-unienne, la lutte des Molex a donné une visibilité médiatique et politique exceptionnelle aux conflits du travail en France, au moment où survient le début de la crise financière de 2008. Dans une France durement touchée par les fermetures d’usines – plus de mille plans de sauvegarde de l’emploi (PSE) signés cette année-là –, cette lutte devient un symbole qui participe à la redéfinition des contours du problème public de la désindustrialisation 1  .
La crise de l’école comme problème public
Authors: Balland Ludivine
Published: December 2017

L’idée selon laquelle le niveau scolaire baisserait, les élèves ne respecteraient plus rien et les enseignants n’enseigneraient plus est une rhétorique désormais courante, mobilisée par des acteurs sociaux variés relevant du monde scolaire et de ses marges. La rentrée scolaire est souvent l’occasion de mettre en scène ces représentations d’une « crise de l’école », notamment dans le champ des médias et de l’édition par la publication de tribunes, d’émissions télévisées ou d’essais. La crise de l’école sera analysée ici du point de vue de la sociologie des problèmes publics : il ne s’agira pas d’interroger la réalité ou non de cette « crise », mais son émergence comme catégorie permettant de penser les transformations scolaires.
La construction de l’inconcevable domination du hand français
Authors: Létourneau Laura , Onesta Claude
Published: December 2017

En 1995, l’équipe de France masculine remporte son premier titre majeur en handball. Depuis, avec douze finales et onze titres, elle fait figure d’épouvantail. Cette longue domination a quelque chose d’inconcevable, tant la compétition de haut niveau est une affaire de détails infimes, et le sport collectif est une alchimie subtile entre des individus tous différents. Cette histoire collective a été écrite par plusieurs générations de joueurs et d’entraîneurs, en bâtissant un système capable de transcender les talents individuels au service d’une équipe.
Ubériser l’État ?
Authors: Bertholet Clément , Létourneau Laura
Published: December 2017

L’idéal d’une Administration démocratique, égalitaire face aux citoyens parce qu’impersonnelle, cède peu à peu du terrain devant les avancées de nouveaux services numériques privés qui répondent aux attentes singulières d’une multitude de clients. L’État ne doit-il pas alors reconsidérer ses modes d’action et remettre en cause ses propres fonctionnements ? C’est ce que pensent deux jeunes fonctionnaires qui suggèrent que l’État s’inspire des stratégies des grands acteurs du numérique pour préserver son rôle de gardien des valeurs démocratiques.
À propos de l’homosexualité : ce que Freud a dit
Authors: Flanders Sara , Ladame François , Carlsberg Anders , Heymanns Petra , Naziri Despina , Panitz Denny
Published: December 2017

Cet article étudie les écrits de Freud sur l’homosexualité, depuis ses premières hypothèses exprimées dans les lettres à Fliess jusqu’à ses dernières observations publiées dans L’Abrégé de psychanalyse en 1940, après sa mort. Nous suivrons la continuité et les changements de sa pensée en structurant notre article selon les concepts suivants : 1) La bisexualité, 2) Le narcissisme et choix d’objet, narcissisme et identification, 3) Le normal et le pathologique et 4) Le facteur quantitatif et l’agression. Nous montrerons que Freud est le premier à confirmer l’existence d’homosexualités multiples, qu’il ne propose pas de réponse en termes binaires noir/blanc à la question de la normalité et du pathologique bien qu’il contribue à rendre intelligible la véhémence qui entoure ce thème et que, au sein d’une œuvre considérable, il fournit des bases riches et variées pour la poursuite des réflexions sur le sujet.
Citoyenneté et développement durable : pratiques familiales et scolaires chez les adolescents
Authors: Glomeron Frédéric , Bois Evelyne , Hugon Mandarine , Maguin Françoise
Published: December 2017

Dans la perspective d’une transition énergétique, les citoyens de demain ont besoin d’être formés et éduqués aux économies d’énergie. Cette recherche se centre sur le point de vue de 257 adolescent(e)s français(es) en classe de Troisième, en les interrogeant par questionnaires sur leurs pratiques énergétiques, celles-ci pouvant être influencées par les apports scolaires et l’éducation familiale. Les résultats de l’analyse quantitative montrent que les élèves semblent généralement conscients des éco-gestes à mettre en œuvre et de leurs effets, notamment grâce aux connaissances scolaires. Cependant, leurs gestes semblent influencés par les pratiques familiales et le milieu de vie sociale. Cette étude apporte un éclairage sur la prise de conscience du collégien par les choix, les décisions et les actions qu’il est amené à faire, en questionnant les enjeux d’une éducation, à la fois scolaire et familiale.
Pratiques de communication de parents immigrants et d’enseignantes titulaires au primaire
Authors: Beauregard France , Grenier Naomi
Published: December 2017

Plusieurs auteur.e.s envisagent la collaboration entre les familles immigrantes et l’école comme un facteur incontournable pour la réussite scolaire de l’élève. Peu de recherches ont porté sur les pratiques de communication mises en place par les deux parties. Des entrevues effectuées auprès de vingt-huit parents immigrants et de cinq enseignantes ont permis de mettre en lumière cette zone peu explorée. Il ressort des résultats que parents et enseignantes mobilisent des pratiques de communication qui varient selon le groupe, mais également selon les individus. De plus, différents facteurs influent sur ces pratiques. Il importe donc de saisir l’intention sous-jacente à leur mise en œuvre afin de mieux en comprendre les effets.
Risk Factors for Dysphagia After Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery
Authors: Li Zhikun , Li Gengwu , Chen Chao , Li Yifan , Yang Changwei , Xu Wei , Zhu Xiaodong
Published: December 2017

This study evaluated the risk factors for dysphagia after anterior cervical spine surgery by multidimensional analysis and investigated the predictive values of these risk factors for dysphagia. The patients underwent anterior cervical spine surgery and were followed for at least 6 months. Sex, age, tracheal mobility, smoking history, implant type, C3 anterior vertebral soft tissue swelling, narrowest esophageal distance before internal fixation, cervical curvature, operative time, occurrence of fusion, number of operative segments, and highest vertebral segment were recorded. Chi-square test and logistic regression were performed to analyze the predictive value of each dimension for dysphagia. A total of 158 patients were included in this study. The mean C3 anterior vertebral soft tissue swelling was 8.8±4.5 mm, the mean narrowest esophageal distance before internal fixation was 6.9±4.4 mm, and the mean operative time was 78.5±39.2 minutes. Chi-square test results showed that age 60 years and older, female sex, internal fixation with titanium plate/titanium mesh, narrowest esophageal distance before internal fixation of less than 5 mm, and 3 operative segments indicated a relatively high incidence of dysphagia. Logistic regression analyses showed that age, sex, implant type, narrowest esophageal distance before internal fixation, and number of operative segments were all risk factors predictive of postoperative dysphagia. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.872. Age 60 years and older, female sex, internal fixation with titanium plate/titanium mesh, narrowest esophageal distance before internal fixation of less than 5 mm, and 3 operative segments were risk factors for dysphagia after anterior cervical surgery. The regression equation may be used to predict the occurrence of dysphagia. [
Orthopedics.
2018; 41(1):e110–e116.]
Horizontal Deviations in Congenital Brown Syndrome
Authors: Dotan Gad , Eiger-Moscovich Maya , Snir Moshe , Ehrenberg Miriam , Friling Ronit
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

To report the incidence of horizontal deviations requiring surgical correction in patients with congenital Brown syndrome.

Methods:

In a retrospective study, the medical records of all children who underwent a surgical correction of congenital Brown syndrome at Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel from 1998 to 2016 were reviewed, analyzing the presence of preoperative primary position horizontal misalignment.

Results:

Overall, 19 eyes (8 right and 11 left eyes) of 16 patients (7 males, 9 females; mean age: 4.2 ± 2.6 years) were included in this study. Fourteen patients (88%) had surgery for correction of a compensatory head position, including 8 patients (50%) with a head tilt and 6 patients (38%) with a chin-up position, and 2 patients had surgery for primary position hypotropia. All of them underwent a weakening procedure of the superior oblique tendon, by either Z-tenectomy (81%, n = 13) or suture elongation of the superior oblique tendon (19%, n = 3). Fifty-six percent of patients (n = 9) had primary position horizontal deviation before surgery, including 50% (n = 8) exodeviations, ranging from exophoria of 4 prism diopters (PD) to exotropia of 30 PD, and one esotropia of 14 PD. Fifty percent of patients (n = 8) had surgery to correct the horizontal deviation by a recession of either one (31%, n = 5) or two (19%, n = 3) muscles. Mean preoperative horizontal deviation (9.3 ± 3.4 PD) decreased significantly following surgery (1.7 ± 1 PD,
P
= .001) (paired
t
test).

Conclusions:

Significant horizontal misalignment is often present in patients with congenital Brown syndrome and its correction should be considered at the time of surgery.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus.
2018;55(2):113–116.]
Assessment of an Advanced Vision Screener in the Detection of Amblyopia in the Nebraska Pediatric Population
Authors: Haschke Mary , Kinberg Hannah , Morgan Linda A. , Suh Donny W.
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

To determine the validity of the OPTEC 5500 vision screener (Stereo Optical Co., Inc., Chicago, IL) in assessing visual acuity and amblyopia in pediatric patients between the ages of 3 and 17 years by comparing it statistically to gold standard comprehensive ophthalmic examinations.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted of 64 patients between the ages of 3 and 17 years who underwent a vision screening test at a pediatric ophthalmology office using the OPTEC 5500 vision screener, followed by traditional visual acuity testing via the Snellen or Lea optotypes. After data were collected, the results of the OPTEC 5500 vision screener were compared to the Snellen and Lea visual acuity tests and statistical analysis was subsequently performed for the right and left eyes separately. Patients were considered to have risk factors for amblyopia based on the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus referral criteria guidelines.

Results:

The results of the OPTEC 5500 vision screener for the right eye of participants of all ages were a sensitivity of 77.4%, specificity of 100.0%, positive predictive value of 100.0%, negative predictive value of 50.0%, and accuracy of 81.5%. Results for the left eye were a sensitivity of 81.0%, specificity of 87.0%, positive predictive value of 91.9%, negative predictive value of 71.4%, and accuracy of 83.1%.

Conclusions:

Although the specificity and positive predictive value were acceptable, the sensitivity and negative predictive value of the OPTEC 5500 vision screener were below average when compared to other available devices, exhibiting some of the weaknesses of the device. Additional studies of the OPTEC 5500 vision screener with a larger population are necessary to assess the device in the general pediatric population, such as in general pediatric clinics and public schools. Additionally, other options for pediatric vision screening devices should be explored.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2018;55(3):189–193.]
ALZUMERIC: A decision support system for diagnosis and monitoring of cognitive impairment
Authors: Martinez de Lizarduy Unai , Calvo Salomón Pilar , Gómez Vilda Pedro , Ecay Torres Mirian , López de Ipiña Karmele
Published: December 2017

Internet of things and smart cities are becoming a reality. Nowadays, more and more devices are interconnected and in order to deal with this new situation, data processing speeds are increasing to keep the pace. Smart devices like tablets and smartphones are accessible to a wide part of society in developed countries, and Internet connections for data exchange make it possible to handle large volumes of information in less time. This new reality has opened up the possibility of developing client-server architectures focused on clinical diagnosis in real time and at a very low cost. This paper illustrates the design and implementation of the ALZUMERIC system that is oriented to the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It is a platform where the medical specialist can gather voice samples through non-invasive methods from patients with and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and the system automatically parameterizes the input signal to make a diagnose proposal. Although this type of impairment produces a cognitive loss, it is not severe enough to interfere with daily life. The present approach is based on the description of speech pathologies with regard to the following profiles: phonation, articulation, speech quality, analysis of the emotional response, language perception, and complex dynamics of the system. Privacy, confidentiality and information security have also been taken into consideration, as well as possible threats that the system could suffer, so this first prototype of services offered by ALZUMERIC has been targeted to a predetermined number of medical specialists.
Disposição para mudança de comportamento no planejamento da aposentadoria em trabalhadores pré-aposentados/ Aptitude for behavior change in the planning of retirement in pre-retirement workers
Authors: Pissinati Paloma De Souza Cavalcante , Haddad Maria do Carmo Fernandez Lourenço , Munari Denize Bouttelet , Martins Julia Trevisan , Gvozd Raquel
Published: December 2017

Objetivou-se categorizar os estágios de mudança de comportamento no planejamento da aposentadoria de trabalhadores pré-aposentados. Pesquisa transversal, exploratória, quantitativa, realizada entre novembro de 2014 e abril de 2015, com 164 trabalhadores pré-aposentados de uma universidade pública do Norte do estado do Paraná. Os participantes responderam à Escala de Mudança em Comportamento de Planejamento da Aposentadoria, pautada em seis estágios: pré-contemplação, manifestada pela negação da aposentadoria; contemplação, reconhecimento da necessidade de mudança; preparação, tomada de decisão para agir; ação, implementação de ações favoráveis; recaída, regressões entre os estágios; e manutenção, persistência na execução de comportamentos saudáveis. Os dados foram analisados através do programa Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versão 20.0. Identificou-se que não havia trabalhadores no estágio de pré-contemplação; 45,7% se encontravam na fase de recaída; e 35,3%, no estágio de ação. Os indivíduos demonstraram maior envolvimento com ações relacionadas à autonomia e ao bem-estar quando comparadas à área ocupacional-social. Assim, conclui-se que os participantes se encontravam em um momento de autorreflexão, caracterizado pelo abandono da prática de ações favoráveis à adaptação à aposentadoria.
Prevalence of Neuropathic Pain and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Korean Adults with Chronic Low Back Pain Resulting from Neuropathic Low Back Pain
Authors: Kim Jin-Hwan , Hong Jae Taek , Lee Chong-Suh , Kim Keun-Su , Suk Kyung-Soo , Kim Jin-Hyok , Park Ye-Soo , Chang Bong-Soon , Jun Deuk Soo , Kim Young-Hoon , Lee Jung-Hee , Min Woo-Kie , Lee Jung-Sub , Park Si-Young , Oh In-Soo , Hong Jae-Young , Shin Hyun-Chul , Kim Woo-Kyung , Kim Joo-Han , Lee Jung-Kil , Kim In-Soo , Ha Yoon , Im Soo-Bin , Kim Sang Woo , Han In-Ho , Shin Jun-Jae , Rim Byeong Cheol , Seo Bo-Jeong , Kim Young-Joo , Lee Juneyoung
Published: December 2017

Study Design

A noninterventional, multicenter, cross-sectional study.

Purpose

We investigated the prevalence of neuropathic pain (NP) and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of the quality of life (QoL) and functional disability in Korean adults with chronic low back pain (CLBP).

Overview of Literature

Among patients with CLBP, 20%–55% had NP.

Methods

Patients older than 20 years with CLBP lasting for longer than three months, with a visual analog scale (VAS) pain score higher than four, and with pain medications being used for at least four weeks before enrollment were recruited from 27 general hospitals between December 2014 and May 2015. Medical chart reviews were performed to collect demographic/clinical features and diagnosis of NP (douleur neuropathique 4, DN4). The QoL (EuroQoL 5-dimension, EQ-5D; EQ-VAS) and functional disability (Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale, QBPDS) were determined through patient surveys. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to compare PROs between the NP (DN4≥4) and non-NP (DN4<4) groups.

Results

A total of 1,200 patients (females: 65.7%; mean age: 63.4±13.0 years) were enrolled. The mean scores of EQ-5D, EQ-VAS, and QBPDS were 0.5±0.3, 55.7±19.4, and 40.4±21.1, respectively. Among all patients, 492 (41.0%; 95% confidence interval, 38.2%–43.8%) suffered from NP. The prevalence of NP was higher in male patients (46.8%; p<0.01), in patients who had pain based on radiological and neurological findings (59.0%; p<0.01), and in patients who had severe pain (49.0%; p<0.01). There were significant mean differences in EQ-5D (NP group vs. non-NP group: 0.4±0.3 vs. 0.5±0.3; p<0.01) and QBPDS (NP group vs. non-NP group: 45.8±21.2 vs. 36.3±20.2; p<0.01) scores. In the multiple linear regression, patients with NP showed lower EQ-5D (β=−0.1; p<0.01) and higher QBPDS (β=7.0; p<0.01) scores than those without NP.

Conclusions

NP was highly prevalent in Korean patients with CLBP. Patients with CLBP having NP had a lower QoL and more severe dysfunction than those without NP. To enhance the QoL and functional status of patients with CLBP, this study highlights the importance of appropriately diagnosing and treating NP.
Anterior Longitudinal Ligament Reconstruction to Reduce Hypermobility of Cervical and Lumbar Disc Arthroplasty
Authors: Mobbs Ralph J. , Li Jia Xi Julian , Phan Kevin
Published: December 2017

Study Design

Retrospective case series

Purpose

This study aims to present the early clinical and radiological outcomes of anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) reconstruction following disc arthroplasty.

Overview of Literature

Although cervical and lumbar disc arthroplasty have entered the clinical setting, there are still concerns regarding the short and long term complications arising from hypermobility of current prosthesis designs. Reconstruction of the ALL is a potential solution to disc arthroplasty hypermobility.

Methods

ALL reconstruction following disc arthroplasty have been performed by the senior author over a 24 month period. Ligament replacements used include allograft and synthetic, ligament advanced reinforcement system (LARS) ligaments. Methods of fixation used include titanium staples, bone anchors and suture fixation. Radiological follow-up pre- and postoperative Oswestry disability index, Neck Disability Index, Patient Satisfaction index scores were recorded on all patients.

Results

A total of 18 ALL reconstructions were performed. There have been no cases of early complications, revision surgery for recurrent symptoms or implant failure. Of the 6 patients receiving a minimum of 15 months follow-up, 4 patients received an allograft, 2 patients received the LARS ligament. Favourable, postoperative clinical and radiographic outcomes have been demonstrated.

Conclusions

ALL reconstruction following cervical and lumbar disc arthroplasty is a promising solution to addressing non-physiological kinematics of current disc arthroplasty devices. Randomized, controlled studies with larger study samples and long-term follow-up are required to establish these conclusions.
Difference in Spinal Sagittal Alignment and Health-Related Quality of Life between Males and Females with Cervical Deformity
Authors: Oe Shin , Togawa Daisuke , Yoshida Go , Hasegawa Tomohiko , Yamato Yu , Kobayashi Sho , Yasuda Tatsuya , Banno Tomohiro , Mihara Yuki , Matsuyama Yukihiro
Published: December 2017

Study Design

Large cohort study.

Purpose

To clarify spinal sagittal alignment and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) according to sex in volunteers aged >50 years with cervical deformity (CD).

Overview of Literature

Adult spinal deformities, especially those associated with lumbosacral lesions, are more frequent in females; however, CD is observed to a greater extent in males.

Methods

We divided 656 volunteers (263 males, 393 females; age, 50–89 years [mean, 73 years]) as follows: males with CD (CDM; 82 patients); males without CD (NCDM, 181); females with CD (CDF, 36); and females without CD (NCDF, 357). CD was defined as C2–7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA) ≥40 mm. We measured pelvic tilt (PT), pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (PI−LL), thoracic kyphosis, T1 slope, cervical lordosis, C7 SVA, and C2–7 SVA. HRQOL was evaluated using EuroQOL five dimensions questionnaire (EQ-5D).

Results

In CDM, NCDM, CDF, and NCDF groups, the respective parameters were as follows: PT: 15°, 14°, 26°, and 21°; PI−LL: 7°, 5°, 16°, and 10°; C2–7 SVA: 49, 24, 46, and 20 mm; C7 SVA: 61, 40, 75, and 47 mm; and EQ-5D: 0.82, 0.88, 0.78, and 0.81. PT and PI−LL were significantly greater in the CDF group than in the NCDF group (p<0.05) but were not significantly different between CDM and NCDM groups. The CDF group already showed deterioration of spinopelvic alignment, although it was maintained in the CDM group. EQ-5D in showed significantly greater deterioration the CDM group than in the NCDM group; deterioration of lumbopelvic parameters had less influence in males (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Sagittal spinal deformity may have different mechanisms in males and females. The deterioration of spinal sagittal alignment in males may originate from the cervical spine, and CD may be associated with HRQOL.
Pornography and Debasement of Womanhood in African Films: The Examples of Selected Nollywood and Ghallywood Videos
Authors: Ogazie Charles A. , Odetade Ibitayo O.
Published: December 2017

No doubt, film has become a potent agent for social change in societies through its continued transition of historical, sociopolitical, religious and educational lessons channeled through its audio visual properties. In African societies for instance, film has captured the realities of existence thereby making its audience conscious of themselves and proffering a leeway out of so many misconstrued philosophies of life. But due to the unsatisfying and the rising audience's taste or superfluous directorial interpretations, African film makers principally those of Nollywood and Ghallywood have continued to trample on some hallowed African cultural heritage thereby promoting “anti-African” norms and behaviours such as pornography, indecent dressing, vulgarity and uncultured sexual behaviours that are found in some Western films. Using the tenets of media content analysis of selected Nollywood/Ghallywood films, this paper believes that African films particularly those of Nollywood and Ghallywood should not be a means of promoting violence, “gangsterism”, promiscuity, and sexual immorality. Instead, it should be seen asa viable tool for satirizing evil and promoting good in the society. The paper concludes that African filmmakers should strictly respect African culture and use film as a weapon for social change while entertaining their audience. It advocates also that film should not be used as a tool to showcase shame by debasing female gender in the name of meeting the demands of realism, making quick money or gaining cheap popularity by portraying African women as “professional sex objects” in an attempt to please their audience.Keywords: Pornography, Sex object, Debasement, African film, Womanhood, Sexual behaviours
The Dynamics of Directing for the Stage and the Screen
Authors: Babalola Yinka Smart
Published: December 2017

Using historical-analytic method, this article examines the dynamics of directing for the stage and the screen. It argues that even though the process of directing is a tough one both on the stage and the screen, it can be very interesting and rewarding for the strong-willed, creative director (artist). It further posits that contemporary theatre is so sophisticated and highly technologically driven that a stage director must of necessity be artistically and technically savvy to be effective in play production in the theatre. As creative and interpretive artists, post-modern, multicultural and globalized directors constantly seek new means of creative exploration through a shared experience of experiments in multimedia, visual arts and cultural expressions of the performance theatrical traditions existing all over the world. This is the key link in the works of creative high concept directors such as Jerzy Grotowski, Peter Brook, Eugenio Barba, Robert Lepage, Simon Mcburney, Lev Dodin, Elizabeth LeCompte and those of textinterpreters and author-centred directors such as Max Stafford-Clark, Katie Mitchell and Declan Donnellan. Contemporary directors are seeking new ways of developing strong 'physically embodied theatre' and must continuously strive to work across the theatre/film/television divides, and feel be at home in the different media to bring their visions to bear on creative works beyond the confines of any single medium for the gratification of the ever 'hungry' audience. Keywords: Directing, Stage, Screen, Multimedia, Contemporary directors, Theatrical traditions
Challenges of Teaching Practice-Based Dance Art in Nigeria: The Department of Theatre and Media Arts, FUOYE Model
Authors: Onyemuchara Casmir E.
Published: December 2017

Dance is a symbolic art form that transcends the overall aesthetics of the body to the cultural essence of a people. It has continued to develop beyond being a cultural activity, to fulfilling other needs in the society, including economic, socio-political, educational, physical, psychological, and religious desires. The rate of development in dance genres/forms and choreographic styles globally is quite intriguing and a herculean task to the contemporary dancer and choreographer in Nigeria, especially in the area of producing quality dancers and choreographers from Nigeria's institutions of higher learning, through a well crafted curriculum and training. This article, therefore, examines the challenges that confront dance studies in Nigeria through a qualitative study, which includes participant observation in the collection of data while drawing from extant literature. The study argues that there is a noticeable gap between dance theory and praxis which appear to have mired the growth and development of dance education in the country. It uses the experience of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), to concretise its argument for a synergy of efforts by both formallytrained and non-formally trained professionals to be involved in the teaching and learning of dance in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The paper recommends that dance should be seen as a practical discipline wherein emphasis would be on the practical aspects. There is also the need to integrate the non-formally educated practitioners into the academic system where professionally trained and educated dance educators are lacking.Keywords: Dance, Aesthetics, Curriculum, Choreographer, Cultural essence, FUOYE
Recursos para el autoaprendizaje en las prácticas de ecología: una experiencia
Authors: Ramon Guillem , Baraza Elena , Ramón Daniel
Published: December 2017

En este artículo presentamos los resultados derivados de un proyecto encaminado a la preparación y experimentación de un material multimedia dirigido a potenciar el aprendizaje autónomo en la adquisición de las competencias específicas de las prácticas de la asignatura Ecología, troncal en los estudios de la licenciatura en Biología de la Universitat de las Illes Balears (UIB). El objetivo fundamental radica en la progresiva adaptación al Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior (EEES) a partir de una mayor coordinación entre el profesorado y la obtención de nuevos recursos para la docencia. Los resultados obtenidos en la experimentación del material pueden considerarse significativamente positivos.
La autoevaluación y la evaluación entre iguales como estrategia para el desarrollo de competencias profesionales. Una experiencia docente en el grado de maestro.
Authors: Navarro Soria Ignacio Javier , González Gómez Carlota
Published: December 2017

El panorama educativo actual se presenta inmerso en un contexto en cambio, donde los estudios superiores están viviendo probablemente la renovación estructural más importante de las últimas décadas. Estos cambios exigen a los docentes universitarios la incorporación de nuevos métodos de evaluación, que permitan valorar la adquisición por parte del alumnado de las competencias establecidas en su Grado. Con este fin la evaluación tiene que ganar en contenido, ya que debe convertirse en una herramienta de enseñanza que sirva tanto al docente como al discente, desarrollando funciones básicamente formativas.  Las estrategias de evaluación que se apliquen para conseguir los objetivos de trabajo planteados en los nuevos planes de estudio, han de desarrollarse con un marcado carácter pedagógico, que ofrezca la respuesta adecuada a una educación centrada en la adquisición de competencias profesionales. El enfoque metodológico a potenciar debe fomentar la adquisición de habilidades para el aprendizaje autónomo y permanente, a partir de un trabajo colaborativo, al mismo tiempo que facilitar que el estudiante se convierta en el protagonista del proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje. Bajo estos principios pretendemos desarrollar y aplicar unas estrategias de evaluación, que entendemos responden mejor a las necesidades encontradas durante este proceso de renovación de nuestra práctica docente, que metodologías tradicionales de uso más ampliamente extendido.

 

 
Bolonia en crisis
Authors: Michavila Pitarch Francisco
Published: December 2017

El presente artículo comienza con un análisis crítico del proceso de construcción del EEES, revisando las expectativas y objetivos definidos para la transformación de la universidad europea, y viendo cómo se han ido desarrollando en el tiempo.

A continuación, se aborda el tema de las ineficiencias de las instituciones de educación superior. La universidad, en estos últimos treinta años, ha contribuido considerablemente en el avance de la sociedad española, pero a pesar del buen balance, existen algunos aspectos de su quehacer en los que existen ciertas ineficiencias. La adecuación de la oferta y la demanda, la falta de coordinación, las tasas de abandono o la gestión y la autonomía de las instituciones son algunos de los temas que se abordan en esta sección.

Para finalizar, plantea la importancia de un adecuado sistema de financiación y gobernanza, en un momento crucial de reformas universitarias. Se plantea la necesidad de sustituir la rigidez tradicional del sistema, la importancia de la captación de recursos alternativos, o la interdisciplinariedad y la internacionalización, entre otros temas.

 
Un EEES atascado en el tráfico
Authors: Vanderkendelare Bert
Published: December 2017

En esta contribución, el autor ofrece su impresión personal sobre el punto de vista de los estudiantes sobre la aplicación del Proceso de Bolonia' y sobre las líneas de actuación introducidas en los últimos años así como los retos que se avecinan en relación a la Conferencia Ministerial de 2012 en Bucarest, Rumania. Comenzando con las quemas llevadas a cabo en 2009 en Bolonia con ocasión del 10º aniversario de la Declaración de Bolonia, el autor describe los distintos problemas que sufrido la aplicación de Bolonia y las causas que frenan la plena realización del Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior.

Mirando hacia adelante al2012, el autor sugiere cómo el EEES se podría renovar y convertirse en un verdadero espacio para el intercambio educativo de alta calidad. No sólo se cita la lista de 14 prioridades para el año 2012 creada por la Unión de Estudiantes Europeos, sino que se demanda un proceso de Bolonia más vinculante, que obligue a los países signatarios a comprometerse con mayor claridad en los avances previstos para los próximos años y  en ayudar a otros países a hacer lo mismo.

 
Hacia un Practicum que garantice la calidad: diseño e implementación de un protocolo de seguimiento del Practicum
Authors: Alemany Costa Josepa , Perramon Tornil Xavier
Published: December 2017

Este artículo presenta un proyecto que se está llevando a cabo en la Universitat Pompeu Fabra para garantizar la calidad de las prácticas externas que se han de realizar en el contexto de los nuevos grados adaptados al EEES.  Un aspecto fundamental para esta garantía de calidad radica en un seguimiento adecuado del desarrollo de las prácticas en organizaciones y empresas.  Por ello, uno de los objetivos de nuestro proyecto es la definición de un protocolo de seguimiento del Practicum basado en las competencias a desarrollar durante las prácticas.  También forma parte del proyecto la implementación de este protocolo de seguimiento mediante el uso de las TIC, concretamente a través de un módulo integrado en la plataforma Moodle que permite la gestión del Practicum conjuntamente con el resto de asignaturas.

 
La formación de tutores externos de prácticum en educación: diseño, desarrollo y evaluación de una experiencia
Authors: Sánchez-Núñez Christian Alexis , Ramírez Fernández Santiago , García Guzmán Antonio
Published: December 2017

Este artículo, tras un análisis de la literatura que justifica la importancia de la labor del tutor externo de prácticas en las titulaciones universitarias de educación, muestra una experiencia formativa que ha tenido como objetivo principal la mejora del prácticum a través de un curso para tutores externos de prácticas y que se ha desarrollado en la Facultad de Educación y Humanidades de Ceuta (Universidad de Granada) con la participación de más de 60 docentes (tutores externos y tutores académicos o supervisores).

La experiencia de formación, durante 80 horas lectivas, se desarrolló bajo diferentes modalidades (seminarios, conferencias y talleres) estructuradas en cuatro fases: 1) Reflexión sobre el estado actual de las enseñanzas de prácticum; 2) Conferencias y seminarios sobre qué y cómo se pueden mejorar; 3) Aplicación de los conocimientos adquiridos al diseño de “Planes de acogida al estudiante en prácticas en los centros externos de Educación Infantil, Primaria y Secundaria de la ciudad de Ceuta, y, 4º) Evaluación de la formación realizada a través de la opinión de los participantes.

Los resultados obtenidos reflejan una alta satisfacción de los tutores con la formación recibida y una rápida institucionalización de los procesos de acogida al estudiante en prácticas por parte de los centros externos. También se han detectado necesidades a tratar en futuras acciones formativas y cómo sería idóneo que fueran abordadas para la mejora efectiva de las enseñanzas de prácticum, factores, por otra parte, también reflejados en las distintas tendencias y modelos analizados.

 

 
Validación del inventario sobre necesidades formativas del alumnado (INFA) en el Prácticum de Pedagogía
Authors: Rodríguez Gallego Margarita R. , López Martínez Antonia , Ordóñez Sierra Rosario
Published: December 2017

Con este estudio  damos a conocer el proceso seguido en la elaboración, diseño y validación de un inventario sobre necesidades formativas del alumnado en el “Practicum” de Pedagogía. Se ha realizado con la finalidad de identificar dichas necesidades para el buen desarrollo de las prácticas de la titulación, abarcando todos los ámbitos educativos y  áreas (escuela, sociedad y empresa).

Este inventario se compone de 78 ítems distribuidos en las siguientes categorías: normativa, habilidades sociales, planificación/desarrollo, evaluación, materiales y gestión, el mismo ha sido validado por 30 profesores del ámbito universitario que han colaborado como expertos.

El principal objetivo del inventario ha sido conocer las necesidades formativas de los/as alumnos/as de 3º y 5º de Pedagogía sobre las condiciones académicas requeridas en las asignaturas Practicum I y II.

A través de la validación  ha quedado demostrado que las seis categorías  que configuran el inventario INFA tienen un nivel elevado de validez.  

 
La competencia de trabajo en grupo: una propuesta de actividad y de evaluación
Authors: Gómez-Ruiz Laura María , Naranjo-Gil David
Published: December 2017

El nuevo Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior ha supuesto un cambio en las metodologías docentes. Los alumnos deben formarse en capacidades específicas de su titulación, y en capacidades transversales o genéricas. Entre estas capacidades destacan la capacidad de trabajo en grupo en el perfil del profesional contable. Aunque muchas Universidades están introduciendo nuevas metodologías para desarrollar esta capacidad en asignaturas de Contabilidad, el proceso de evaluación del alumno sigue centrado en las capacidades específicas de la asignatura, es decir, en el saber y el saber hacer. En las Universidades españolas existe un déficit en la evaluación de competencias transversales. Nuestro trabajo presenta una actividad de trabajo en grupo para realizar con alumnos de la asignatura de Contabilidad de Gestión de tercer curso del Grado de Finanzas y Contabilidad, y una propuesta de matriz de evaluación de esta actividad que mide indicadores relacionados con el éxito del trabajo en equipo: eficacia, eficiencia, actitud hacia el grupo y solución de problemas. Esto con el objetivo general de ayudar a mejorar la capacidad de trabajo en grupo del alumno. Nuestro propósito es resaltar que las innovaciones en metodología docente deben completarse con nuevas herramientas de evaluación que permitan una evaluación integral, sistemática, permanente, reflexiva y recíproca, basada en competencias.
Nueve años de Aprendizaje Basado en Proyectos de Ingeniería
Authors: Nunes de Oliveira José Manuel
Published: December 2017

Los programas de ingeniería impartidos en la Escuela Politécnica Superior de Educación de Águeda, Universidad de Aveiro, se han venido organizando desde 2001 bajo el paradigma de Aprendizaje Basado en Proyectos. Este breve artículo se propone mostrar el marco del desarrollo educativo y proceder a continuación a describir la implementación actual de los planes de estudio en este campo, de acuerdo con la experiencia acumulada durante nueve años de funcionamiento. Por último, el autor ofrece su personal visión sobre las dificultades del proceso de desarrollo e implementación, en su calidad de actor comprometido con el proceso.

 

 
El papel de la evaluación formativa en la evaluación por competencias: aportaciones de la red de evaluación formativa y compartida en docencia universitaria
Authors: López-Pastor Víctor Manuel
Published: December 2017

Este trabajo relaciona dos aspectos básicos de la evaluación en educación superior (la evaluación formativa y la evaluación por competencias) con la existencia de una Red Interuniversitaria que lleva cinco años trabajando dichos aspectos de forma sistemática. En un primer punto realizamos un análisis del estado de la cuestión sobre evaluación formativa y compartida en educación superior. En el segundo explicamos la organización y funcionamiento de la Red de evaluación formativa en docencia universitaria: finalidades, metodología básica de trabajo, diferentes acciones y líneas de trabajo establecidas: proyectos de innovación e investigación educativa, seminarios permanentes de investigación-acción, difusión de resultados, organización de congresos anuales y grupos de trabajo temáticos. También presentamos los principales resultados obtenidos, organizados en cuatro apartados: a-ventajas; b-inconvenientes, problemáticas y posibles soluciones; c-influencia en el rendimiento académico; d-carga del trabajo que supone para profesorado y alumnado. En el tercer y último apartado del trabajo explicamos los aspectos fundamentales de la evaluación por competencias en educación superior, los cambios que requiere y la importancia de la coherencia entre los elementos curriculares; en este sentido, aportamos una aplicación práctica que esperamos sea útil para lograr mayores niveles de coherencias curricular en nuestras asignaturas.

 

 