bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the toxic influence of vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate) and treatment with aqueous extracts of cinnamon or anise on lipid profile and liver functions of female wistar rats
Authors: Ibrahim Sabah , Sabahelkhier Murwan
Published: November 2017

The toxic effects of vitamin E and its treatment with aqueous extracts of Cinnamon or anise on lipid profile and liver functions of female wistar rats were examined for six weeks during September 2016 at labs in al-Neelain University. 18 rats were divided into six groups: 1. negative control group (sunflower oil), 2. Positive control group and rest groups given (1500 mg/Kg/BW/day of Vitamin E). After two hours, the four treated groups received a low dose (2.13g/Kg) and a high dose (3.20g/Kg) 20g/Kg from Cinnamon aqueous extract (CAE) and Anise aqueous extract (AAE). At the end rats were sacrificed then serum and liver tissues were analyzed. Vitamin E toxic dose had caused a significant increase in serum Triglycerides (TG), Alanine amino transferase (ALT) levels, while it decreased the levels of High-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC) and Aspartate amino transferase (AST). All treatments decreased TG and ALT levels. CAE low dose significantly increased TC, LDL and HDL levels. CAE high dose caused a significant decrease in AST, TC, and LDL. Both doses of AAE, caused significant increases on AST levels, and only anise low dose caused a significant decrease on TC and LDL levels. Vitamin E toxic dose caused severe fatty change in liver histology, which was near normal in both doses of CAE with a small necrosis in a low dose. Only AAE low dose normalized the liver. To conclude Vitamin E oral administration with a dose of (1500 mg/Kg) induced liver injury with an elevation in ALT and TG levels, which was significantly ameliorated by both treatments. Cinnamon was better than anise in ameliorating the toxicity. Cinnamon high dose was better than Cinnamon low dose; in contrast anise low dose was better than Anise high dose.
Interpreting mood choice effects in L2 and L1 Spanish: empirical evidence and theoretical implications
Authors: Ahern Aoife , Amenós-Pons José , Guijarro-Fuentes Pedro
Published: November 2017

The rich morphology of Spanish, such as that of tense and verbal mood, encodes a range of features leading to diverse contextual effects on interpretation, some of which are examined in the light of original experimental data in the present study. Specifically, we analyse data on the interpretation of mood in concessive structures by upper-intermediate and advanced learners of L2 Spanish, with L1 French (N=48) and L1 English (N=40), and from an L1 European Spanish control group (N=35). The results of the learner-group interpretation experiment led to a follow-on study enquiring into the understanding of mood alternation in concessive clauses by another group of L1 European Spanish speakers through a metalinguistic interpretation task. Learner group findings suggested a heavier reliance on lexical information and world-knowledge than on grammatical cues, while L1 speakers’ data indicate a default association maintained between subjunctive and irrealis interpretations, leading to a greater measure of variability in describing presuppositional uses of this mood. The native speaker data may reflect challenges posed by representing and describing, using metalinguistic knowledge, structures whose interpretation requires the integration of linguistic, discourse and extralinguistic information. Findings are discussed in relation to current linguistic descriptions and potential contributions of our empirical data.
Trump and the Republican Congress: The Challenges of Governing
Authors: Byers Jason S. , Carson Jamie L.
Published: November 2017

This essay highlights the challenges faced by the Trump Administration during the first 8 months of his presidency despite unified Republican control of both chambers of Congress. It begins by focusing briefly on the lead-up to the 2016 election before turning to the struggles the administration has faced in enacting policies since inauguration. The essay concludes with a look ahead at the 2018 midterm elections and the implications for the remainder of the Trump presidency.
Performance Analysis of Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor with and Without Bragg Grating
Authors: Singh Ranjit , Dewra Sanjeev
Published: November 2017

The performance of localized surface plasmon resonance-based sensor with and without Bragg grating by using finite difference time domain method is evaluated with nanoparticles used at the tip of optical fiber. The proposed sensor has been analyzed in terms of refractive index (RI) sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). It is observed that the RI sensitivity of surface plasmon resonance sensor is 240 nm/RIU with and without grating as RI of surrounding varies from 1.4 to 1.5. It is found that the value of SNR is 0.875 RIU→1 without grating and 2.75 RIU→1 with grating. So there is an improvement in the SNR when the Bragg grating is inscribed within the core of the fiber.
Investigation of Photonic Integrated Circuits with Low-Loss Bragg Gratings
Authors: Kaur Manjinder , Dewra Sanjeev
Published: November 2017

The impact of physical parameters of uniform fiber Bragg grating (U-FBG) like grating period, length of grating, and width of grating on the performance of U-FBG fiber by using finite differences time domain (FDTD) based on surface plasmon polaritons (SPP) is evaluated. An FBG is similar to a distributed Bragg reflector created in a small segment of optical fiber that reflects some particular wavelengths of light and transmits the other wavelengths. It is observed that the maximum received optical power at the reflected port achieved is −1.67×10-6 w/m2 with silver (Ag) profile material of U-FBG at 0.1 w/m2 input transmission power and wavelength of 1.55 μm with 0.9 μm grating length and 0.2 μm grating width. The result shows that the received optical power is changing by optimizing the physical parameters of U-FBG.
Plinius exclusus (Ep.7.5)
Authors: Baeza-Angulo Eulogio
Published: November 2017

This article offers a philological commentary on the ‘Calpurnia Cycle’ present within the letters composed by Pliny the Younger, concentrating particularly on the analysis ofEp.7.5. The author behaves like a true elegiac lover and a loving husband, since the letters that he writes to his wife Calpurnia can be set in the context of the elegiac genre, given the lexicon and motifs present in them. Calpurnia is transformed into ascripta puellanot in the sense of a metaphorical figure, but in the sense of ‘literary material’. The aim is to adapt the elegiac motifs to his declared intention of creating a positive image of his persona in the world and for posterity (immortalitas) through theEpistulae. Although Pliny presents himself assimilis excluso amatori, albeit while innovatively setting the scene at midday, his interest is not in the typical elegiac conduct ofmilitiaorservitium amoris, which would run counter to his self-presentation as an active and politically engaged citizen; rather, his theme is the praise of the beloved and reflections upon his own importance as a poet.
Multimodal argumentation: Beyond the verbal/visual divide
Authors: Tseronis Assimakis
Published: November 2017

What would the consequences be for the interpretation and analysis of arguments if we were to accept that communication, within which arguments are produced and interpreted, involves the intricate use of more than just the verbal mode? In this paper, I discuss the shortcomings of the conception of argument as a purely verbal phenomenon and of the mere juxtaposition of the visual argument to the verbal, as suggested in the discourses of the sceptics and the advocates and of “visual” argument, respectively. Instead I propose a multimodal perspective on the analysis of argumentative discourse, according to which there is no a priori division of labor between the verbal and the visual mode, and attention is paid both to the (verbal and visual) content and to the (verbal and visual) style. In this view, argument is neither verbal nor visual, since argument is not to be defined on the basis of the verbal, visual or other semiotic means by which it is realized in communication. As a case in point, I analyze an ad campaign for the promotion of the British newspaper The Guardian in the United States.
Um relato sobre o Brasil na constituição do gosto pela leitura na Alemanha oitocentista. Memórias de Joseph Friedrich von Weech no Rio de Janeiro (1823-1827).
Authors: Montez Luiz Barros
Published: November 2017

Neste artigo, tomo como objeto de análise as narrativas de Joseph Friedrich von Weech sobre o Rio de Janeiro, extraídas da obra Viagem ao Brasil e aos estados unidos do Rio da Prata, através da Inglaterra e Portugal, nos anos de 1823 a 1827, publicada em 1831. Em minha abordagem procuro articular diferentes teorias, tendo como objetivo situar os relatos de viagem como gênero multifacetado que, por sua natureza, se prestam de forma privilegiada a esta articulação. Em sua condição híbrida, o relato de Weech não apenas dá o testemunho do viajante sobre as terras e gentes do Rio de Janeiro como também estabelece literariamente novos significados para o que o viajante viu e viveu.
Do exílio ao arquivo: rastros de Hilde Domin
Authors: Miranda Fernando
Published: November 2017

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar alguns resultados da pesquisa no espólio (Nachlass) da poeta alemã Hilde Domin, que se encontra no Arquivo Literário Alemão (Deutsches Literaturarchiv), em Marbach am Neckar. Com isso, pretendo oferecer elementos para o debate em torno da pesquisa em arquivo e quais contribuições esses debates podem proporcionar aos estudos de literatura, além de trazer novos resultados para as pesquisas da poesia de pós-guerra (Nachkriegslyrik).Palavras-chave: Hilde Domin; arquivo; poesia; pós-guerra; antropologia literária
Hans Lorenz Castorp, o bom avô em A montanha mágica, de Thomas Mann
Authors: Santana Jorge Alves
Published: November 2017

RESUMO: Refletimos aqui sobre alguns aspectos do corolário estético e psicossocial produzido pela longa, intrigante e dialética analepse narrativa, presente no segundo capítulo de A montanha Mágica, de Thomas Mann. Particularmente na primeira parte do romance, intitulada Da pia batismal e dos dois aspectos do avô. Neste recorte analítico, acompanharemos a ocorrência dos movimentos de subjetivação modular/transversal do protagonista Hans Castorp, em relação direta e indireta com seu avô Hans Lorens Castorp; bem como, por consequência, em relação ao seu comportamento dialógico com outras personagens que formam este complexo, múltiplo e heterogêneo universo romanesco. Rostidade modular, ou identidade flexível, disposta em temporalidade transversal também será um dos elementos percebidos como móveis de base para esta atualização do Bildungsroman, que se equilibra entre tradições clássicas do gênero e as atualizações literárias feitas pelo autor, que apontam para novas perspectivas de negociações dos variados processos de construção subjetivas, presentes nos paradigmas estéticos.Palavras-chave: A montanha mágica; rostidade; identidades transversais.
ESTUDO COMPARATIVO DA PRODUÇÃO LEITEIRA EM MUNICÍPIOS DA REGIÃO SUL DO RIO GRANDE DO SUL
Authors: Picoli Tony , Peter Cristina Mendes , Boesche Kamilla Neutzling , Fonseca Renata Nobre da , Lopes Matheus Gomes , Teixeira Alessandra Goulart , Zani João Luíz , Fischer Geferson
Published: November 2017

A produção brasileira de leite se caracteriza por conter sistemas individuais de produção. Assim, objetivou-se caracterizar a produção leiteira em municípios da região sul do Rio Grande do Sul e verificar os fatores que mais afetam a qualidade do leite nessa região, através de um inquérito epidemiológico e análises de qualidade do leite nas unidades de produção. A investigação mostrou que a idade média dos produtores é de 49 anos, e 64,15% destes não concluíram o ensino fundamental. A produção de leite é realizada em propriedades com média de 26,06 hectares, com 8,4 vacas em lactação em média, sendo que 93,6% das unidades possuem menos de 20 vacas. A maioria das unidades (32,83%) produz de 50 a 100 L/dia; 13,21% produzem até 30 L/dia e apenas 1,89% produz acima de 500 L/dia. A produtividade média detectada foi de 6,8 L/vaca/dia. Quanto ao manejo da ordenha, 39,3% ainda ordenham seus animais manualmente, apenas 14,2% desinfetam o teto antes da ordenha e 53,9% utilizam um único pano para secagem dos tetos. Observou-se correlação negativa entre a contagem de células somáticas (CCS) e a produção leiteira (r= -0,23) e entre CCS e teor de lactose (r= -0,39). Houve correlação positiva entre teor de lactose e produção (r= 0,31). Os dados comprovam que o produto obtido tem qualidade inferior em locais onde são adotadas técnicas precárias de manejo.
PERCEPÇÃO DOS ESTUDANTES DE MEDICINA VETERINÁRIA SOBRE A FORMAÇÃO E ATUAÇÃO EM SAÚDE PÚBLICA NO ÂMBITO DA UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DE PELOTAS-RS
Authors: Teles Alessandra Jacomelli , Lima Jackeline Vieira , Veeck Natiele Isaura De Almeida , Almeida Rodrigo Bozembecher , Guimarães Tássia Gomes , Girolometto Giovani , Schuch Luiz Filipe Damé
Published: November 2017

A responsabilidade da medicina veterinária em contribuir para promoção do bem-estar da sociedade é cada vez maior, portanto, a preocupação com a formação acadêmica na área de saúde pública se faz necessária. O presente estudo objetivou fazer uma análise sobre o ensino em saúde pública, através da percepção de estudantes de medicina veterinária sobre a atuação do médico veterinário na área. Para a identificação das noções dos estudantes foi aplicado um questionário individual, para os acadêmicos. A pesquisa demonstrou que o perfil dos estudantes é composto na sua maioria por mulheres e a admiração pela carreira é o principal motivo para escolha do curso. Os acadêmicos reconheceram a relevância da profissão na área de saúde pública, mas desconhecem como se dá essa atuação e que este tema esteja inserido na grade curricular do curso de graduação. Não foi observado evolução do aprendizado ao longo do curso, demonstrando a necessidade da reestruturação curricular do curso. É necessário que os graduandos adquiram o conhecimento durante a etapa de formação para que a profissão ocupe o espaço devido no âmbito da área de saúde, com estratégias pedagógicas que incluam o estudante no serviço de saúde.
AVALIAÇÃO DE MÉTODOS PARA OBTENÇÃO DE PROTEÍNAS RECOMBINANTES
Authors: Santos Junior Alceu Gonçalves , Piraine Renan Eugênio Araujo , Cunha Rodrigo Casquero , Nizoli Leandro Quintana , Andreotti Renato , Leite Fábio Pereira Leivas
Published: November 2017

A utilização de Pichia pastoris para a produção de proteínas recombinantes apresenta inúmeras vantagens que esse sistema agrega, destacando-se a exportação das moléculas para o meio extracelular. Isto permite que a obtenção das proteínas possa ser realizada por métodos de precipitação, com uso de sais neutros ou solventes orgânicos, sem trazer prejuízos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a utilização de sulfato de amônio, acetona e metanol para obtenção da proteína recombinante Bm86 do carrapato Rhipicephalus microplus expressa por P. pastoris. A ação provocada pelos solventes orgânicos ocasionou uma solubilidade parcial das proteínas. Na quantificação por densitometria da proteína rBm86-CG, verificou-se que utilizando acetona (1:2) foi obtido 30,3 mg/L, metanol (1:2) 60,5 mg/L e com sulfato de amônio a 70% (83,5 mg/L). A manutenção das características antigênicas após a precipitação foi verificada pela técnica de Western Blot, sendo que a proteína rBm86-CG obtida pelos três métodos foi reconhecida por anticorpos específicos. Os resultados sugerem que a precipitação com sais neutros e solventes orgânicos pode ser utilizada para obtenção de proteínas recombinantes como a rBm86-CG, sem trazer prejuízos a sua antigenicidade.
Продуктивність та неспецифічна резистентність курчат-бройлерів за дії β-каротину
Authors: Shevchenko L.V. , Yaremchuk O.S. , Mykhalska V.M.
Published: November 2017

Use in feeding broiler chickens of Vitaton and Vitadeps with and without butylhydroxytoluene (BHT) improves feed intake and water, and has no effect on body weight. The feeding of broiler chickens with mix fodder of Vitaton and BHT in doses that meet and exceed the physiological need of β-carotene calculated for retinol and Vitaton with no OSH in a normal dose of β-carotene did not significantly alter the absolute number of lymphocytes blood and the ratio of their subpopulation responsible for cellular (T-lymphocytes) and humoral (B-lymphocytes) immunity. Phagocytic activity of neutrophils and phagocytic index were not significantly changed in the peripheral blood of broiler chickens at feeding Vitaton as a source of β-carotene with/without BHT. Use of Vitaton without BHT in feeding of broiler chickens at a dose of 0.7 g/kg caused a lymphocytopenia. In chickens of this group we noted a decrease in the total number of lymphocytes in the blood due to decrease of cellular and humoral immunity, namely all subpopulations of T-lymphocytes, including T-helper cells - by 58.3 %, T-suppressors - by 41.0, T-helper cells active - at 43.5, B-lymphocytes by 60.1 %, and 0-lymphocytes – by 40.0 %. This is consistent with the reduction in titer of natural antibodies in their serum by 35.3 %. This phagocytic activity of neutrophils and index of phagocytes in blood of broiler chickens unchanged compared with the control. Use of Vitadeps in feeding broiler chickens at a dose of 5.6 g/kg in mix fodder also caused lymphocytopenia. This was reflected in the decrease of absolute number of blood 0-lymphocytes by 43.4 %, T-suppressors - by 38.7 % and T-helper cells active - by 39.0 %, but their ratio in the blood was like control level. Thus, usage of Vitaton and Vitadeps with/without butylhydroxytoluene in doses that meet the bird demands of β-carotene calculated to vitamin A, ensure the normal functioning of immune organs. Use of Vitaton with BHT as a source of β-carotene for the feeding of broiler chickens at a dose exceeding the normal content of vitamin A by 7 times, does not cause the violations of immunological homeostasis of the poultry. The Vitaton without butylhydroxytoluene and Vitadeps in doses exceeding the normal content of bird β-carotene calculated to vitamin A by 7 times depressing the immunopoesis in broiler chickens.
Теоретичне обгрунтування співвідношення треоніну і триптофану у раціонах ремонтних курчат
Authors: Krivenok M.J. , Ilchuk I.I. , Mykhalska V.M.
Published: November 2017

We determined the optimal content and ratio of threonine and tryptophan in the mix fodder of replacement chicks at different periods of their growing. We studied the effect of different levels of threonine and tryptophan in mixed fodder on chicken growth and development. We registered that under optimal AA content and ratio the replacement chickens at the end of the growing period outweighed the chickens from control group by 140 g. We also studied the influence of different content of AA and temporal changes in their ratio on digestibility of feed nutrients by replacement chickens from market egg flock. It was found that the optimal content of threonine and tryptophan and their ratio at certain periods of chicken growth caused the increase in digestibility of protein by 2 %, fiber – by 1 %, and BEV – by 2 %. We also proved that the decrease or increase of AA ratio in mix fodder of replacement chickens leads to the manifestation of antagonism between amino acids and the deterioration of their function in bird organism. The changes in AA ratio had significant effects on chicken productivity, the digestibility of feed nutrients, the assimilation, and efficiency of amino acid use. This effects were considerably stronger than the effect of changes in AA content. The degree of influence of the ratio between threonine and tryptophan varies throughout the growing period, it has been established that the ratio of threonine to tryptophan in the period of limited chick feeding (9-6 weeks) has a lesser effect on the productivity of repair young (R2 = 0.89) the second one (R2 = 0.92) and the last growing periods (R2 = 0.92). We performed a mathematical model (polynomial trend line) to describe the growth of replacement chickens during all experiment periods, the pattern of dependences between chicken organism and AA content, AA ratio, age, and productivity. This nonlinear model is more relevant and reliable than linear dependence.
Виды рода Micrasterias C. Agardh ex Ralfs природного парка «Сибирские Увалы» (Западная Сибирь, Россия)
Authors: Naumenko Y. V. , Gidora O. Y.
Published: November 2017

Some fifteen species, varieties and forms of the genus Micrasterias C. Agarth ex Ralfs (Desmidiaceae) were sampled in the reservoirs of the natural park “Sibirskiye Uvaly”. For the first time the following species: Micrasterias apiculata (Ehr.) Menegh., M. mahabuleshwavensis var. europea (Nordst.) W. Krieg. are listed for the water objects of West Siberia. We described the sizes of newly registered park taxa and characterized their habitats regards pH values, water transparency, and temperature.
Паліноморфологічні особливості видів підсекції Heterophylla (Nym.) Fed. роду Campanula L. флори України
Authors: Dremliuga N. G. , Zhygalova S. L.
Published: November 2017

This paper presents results of a palynomorphological study of representatives of subsection Heterophylla (C. rotundifolia, C. kladniana, C. polymorpha, C. serrata) of section Campanula of genus Campanula in the flora of Ukraine. This was the initial study of C. kladniana and C. serrata for the Ukrainian flora. The common and different palynomorphology features were identified for this species. We discovered that the porous and spheroidal in polar view pollen grains were the common palynological features. We aslo founded that the common characteristic of all the species was echinate-wrinkled or rugulose grained surface with disseminated location of thorns without the spines. We suggested that further palynomorphological research of genus Campanula could show the level of the diagnostic value of these peculiarities. The species-specific characteristics were: shape of pollen grains (C. kladniana has spheroidal pollen grains), the number of pores (pollen grains of C. kladniana has three to five pores, C. rotundifolia – three, C. polymorpha and C. serrata – three or four), availability of short thorns on the exina surface (absent in pollen grains ofC. serrata), and the size of pollen grains (the smallest were registered in C. rotundifolia, 22,65x24,82 m-3).
Оцінка функціонального стану деревних насаджень парків міста Дніпро за показниками інтенсивності вільнорадикального окиснення та вмісту проліну
Authors: Bessonova V. P. , Ivanchenko O. E.
Published: November 2017

We studied the accumulation of the malondialdehyde and free proline in the leaves of woody plants which growing in the city parks of Dnipro in zones with different anthropogenic pollution. We registered the significant increase of free radical oxidation in the leaves of all tree species and at all monitored plots. The reactions of free radical oxidation were more intense in zones with heavy pollution and vice versa. The most intensive accumulation of products of free radical oxidation were observed in the assimilative organs of Tilia cordata Mill. and Acer platanoides L. In Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Biota orientalis Endl. the accumulated products were registered in slightly less but still significant amounts. The quantities of proline in trees of the city parks located in different functional areas exceeded the corresponding control values. The highest concentration of amino acid and malonic dialdehyde were registered in the assimilative organs of the trees from urban parks with heavy level of pollution while the lowest concentration of amino acid was registered in the trees of park located far from industrial zones. On average, amino acid content ranges between 122.61 and 585.77% from the control values. The high level of proline accumulation was observed in the leaves of Robinia pseudoacacia L., since this species is the most environment-resistant. The levels of proline accumulation attributable to anthropogenic pollution of the leaves of Tilia cordata Mill. and Robinia pseudoacacia L. were almost identical.
Динаміка чисельності бур’янів і їх видового складу в агроценозах кукурудзи залежно від обробітку грунту та удобрення в північному степу України
Authors: Tsyliuryk O. I. , Shevchenko S. M. , Shevchenko O. M. , Shvec N. V. , Nikulin V. O. , Ostapchuk Ya. V.
Published: November 2017

We determined that the structure of phytocenosis of weeds in corn crops caused by the influence of their adaptive ability and structure of crop areas in crop rotation. The basis of the dominance of weeds in the species structure is the resistance to herbicides, wide range of similarity, morphological plasticity, and the presence of non-toxic signs. The application of the technology of corn cultivation of small, non-field multicultural soil cultivation (chiseling, flattening loosening) leads to strong increase in the level of permeation by 1.4-1.8 times, which in turn requires the additional rules for soil treatment and postemerged herbicides that reliably control the corn productivity. It has been proved that field plowing and chiseling together with the introduction of the N30P30K30 had minimal advantage on the corn grain yields in non-fertilized conditions due to better nutritional conditions and lower levels of perennial crops. The most effective soil treatment was the shallow and flattening loosening of the chip which under increase of nitrogen content (N60P30K30) caused by corn fertilization allows us to obtain the same yield concerning the plowing and chiseling. The methods of basic soil cultivation under low level of feed infestation (9.0-12.6 pieces/m²) did not have significant effect on the quality of corn grain. The introduction of mineral fertilizers (especially nitrogen) increases the tendency to increase the protein content in the grain (proteins) and reduce the content of carbohydrates, especially the starch.
Макрозообентос придунайского озера Ялпуг (Одесская область, Украина)
Authors: Dzhurtubaev Yu. M. , Dzhurtubaev M. M. , Zamorov V. V.
Published: November 2017

The taxonomic composition and quantitative characteristics of the macrozoobenthos of the largest lake in Ukraine Yalpug, were studied. In 2006-2012 some 396 samples of macrozoobenthos were collected on the littoral and sublittoral of Lake Yalpug. 183 species and subspecies of Spongia, Hydrozoa, Turbellaria, Annelida, Crustacea, Insecta, Gastropoda, and Bivalvia were found. All the species were found on the littoral, while in the sublittoral – only 47 species. For the first time, we discoeverd 46 species for the lake zoobenthic fauna. Ponto-Caspian faunal complex was represented by 19 species. The littoral species number had changed from 63 species in the upper reaches to 160 in the lower reaches of the lake. In littoral habitat the number and biomass increased from winter to summer, and in the sublittoral habitat the abundance increased from winter to summer, whereas the biomass – from winter to autumn. The most abundant were oligochaetes and chironomids, the maximum biomass was registered for molluscs. During the growing season, the average abundance and biomass of macrozoobenthos in the littoral area were 2482 ind./m² and 117.0 g/m² respectively; in sublittoral area – 1600 ind./m² and 121.0 g/m² respectively.
Infra-generic morphological variations in some Nepeta L. taxa of Iran
Authors: Talebi Seyed Mehdi , Nahooji Majid Ghorbani , Yarmoohammadi Mahbobeh
Published: November 2017

Nepeta L. is one of the most important genera of the Lamiaceae family, which widely distributed all over the word. The members of this genus are use of traditional and modern medicine. Nepeta species growth naturally in various parts of Iran and recent years the number of its species is increasing. In the study, morphological characteristics of twenty four populations of seventeen Nepeta taxa were used for infra-generic classifications, because there were many discussions about infra-generic classification of this genus. For this, forty qualitative as well as quantitative morphological features of both vegetative and reproductive organs were examined. Data were analyses with MVSP and SPSS softwares. ANOVA test showed significant variations for all the studied quantitative traits, with the exception of flower number per cycle. Furthermore, most of qualitative characters such as basal and floral leaf shape and petal color differed between taxa. PCA-biplot and CA joint plot showed that some morphological characters had taxonomic value and were useful in identifications of species. In many cases, clustering of species in the UPGMA tree, PCA and PCO plots did not confirm species placements in groups/ sections according to modern classifications. Furthermore, populations of same species did not cluster closely. It seems that ecological conditions had strong effect on different features of this study and high infra-specific variations were found among the studied species. 
Ultrasonic intensification of sorption and desorption processes during the isolation of virginiamycin from the cultural broth of Streptomyces sp. S 15-30
Authors: Durnikin D. A. , Yacenko E. S. , Evdokimov I. Yu. , Akopyan V. B. , Dhavakhiya V. V. , Savushkin V. A. , Glagolev V. I. , Ovchinnikov A. I.
Published: November 2017

Supplementation of fermentation media with synthetic resins is used in the process of biotechnological production of antibiotics and other biologically active substances to prevent the auto-inhibition of the biosynthesis processes due to the binding of secreted target metabolites to a sorbent and their removal from the fermentation volume. The efficiency of a sorbent application may be improved via the ultrasonic stimulation of the antibiotic sorption from cultural broth during fermentation, and the similar stimulation of the reverse process (desorption) during its isolation and purification. In this study, the possibility of the use of ultrasound to improve the processes of sorption and desorption of virginiamycin, a feed antibiotic produced by the highly active strain Streptomyces sp. S 15-30, to/from an Amberlite XAD-16 synthetic resin selectively binding this antibiotic, has been evaluated. According to the obtained results, the ultrasonic treatment with frequency of 22 kHz and acoustic energy density up to 0.05 W·s/cm3 does not disrupt cell membranes, i.e., does not violate biotechnological processes. At the same time, such treatment increases the sorption capacity of the sorbent in ~1.4 times. The similar ultrasonic treatment of a sorbent at the acoustic field with energy density of 0.5 W·s/cm3 almost tenfold accelerates desorption of virginiamycin from the resin but does not destroy the sorbent and provides a possibility to its re-use after regeneration. The revealed effects of the ultrasonic treatment may be integrated into the technology of the virginiamycin biosynthesis, isolation, and purification to improve the efficiency of its industrial production.
Geometrical standards in shapes of avian eggs
Authors: Mytiai I. S. , Matsyura A. V.
Published: November 2017

The original technique of description of avian eggs on the basis of the geometry of asymmetrical oval (ovoid) is suggested. Specific properties of this figure allow to create a system of 80 basic ovoid standards, each given an appropriate name, digital and letter coding, and distinct quantitative characteristics. Combining infundibular zones (blunt poles) of basic ovoids in pairs gives 80 standards of symmetric pseudo-ovoids, 44 of which are found in birds. The same procedure applied to different ovoids produces 375 standards of asymmetrical pseudo-ovoids. This totality can be divided into six groups. Use of such system of standards enables us to identify real shapes of avian eggs, to analyze relation of morphometric parameters to incubatory properties of eggs, and also to carry out comparisons and generalizations of other authors’ data. Each standard is quantitatively characterized by means of indexes (namely, indices of infundibular, cloacal, and lateral zones; index of asymmetry, elongation index, complementarity index, interporal index, arc radiuses, length and diameter).
Genetic divergences between Spondias mombin (Anacardiaceae) genotypes found through morphological traits
Authors: Da Silva Bruna Mezzalira , Rossi Ana Aparecida Bandini , Dardengo Juliana De Freitas Encinas , Tiago Poliana Vicente , Da Silveira Greiciele Farias , Souza Sérgio Alessandro Machado
Published: November 2017

The species Spondias mombin, is native to the Amazonian region. Since these trees’ cultivation is incipient, their exploitation is done through extraction techniques. The aim of the present study was to assess the genetic divergences between S. mombin genotypes and to quantify the relative contribution from 12 morphological traits of the species’ fruits and seeds, as well as to collect data able to subsidize future research on the species conservation and domestication. 60 genotypes were assessed in total, and ten fruits of each genotype were analyzed. Eight descriptors were used for fruit characterization, namely: fruit mass, pulp weight, volume, length, width, thickness, total soluble solids content and hydrogenionic potential. The seed descriptors were mass, length, width and thickness. The data were assessed through the principal components and groupings by applying the UPGMA and Tocher methods. They were analyzed in the GENES software, based on the dissimilarity matrix (Euclidean distance average). The analysis applied to the principal components showed that the first three components explained 83 % accumulated variation. The main traits contributing to the genotype discrimination were fruit width, fruit pulp weight, pH, seed length and thickness, and the most responsive traits to S. mombin genotype selection. The features fruit mass, seed width, fruit thickness, fruit volume, fruit length, seed mass and total soluble solid content presented the smallest contribution to diversity. The grouping methods UPGMA and Tocher evidenced genetic divergence between the analyzed genotypes. Genotypes 37 and 41 were more divergent than the others, what makes them promising for crossings in future genetic enhancement programs focused on the species’ domestication.
Filogenia y clasificación taxonómica de los subgéneros de Augochloropsis (Hymenoptera: Halictidae)
Authors: Celis Cindy Julieth , Cure Jose Ricardo
Published: November 2017

Augochloropsis Cockerell, 1897b is a highly diverse group in the Neotropics and commonly collected in wildlife surveys. These bees remain mostly unidentified in collections because of the lack of taxonomic keys and the incomplete original descriptions, which prevent sorting specimens even at the subgeneric level. The aim of this study was to perform the phylogeny and the taxonomic revision of the genus Augochloropsis to subgeneric level, based on a detailed examination of 56 morphological characters of 2 433 specimens. Four subgenera are recognized and described in detail: (Augochloropsis s.str. (Cockerell, 1897b) (Paraugochloropsis Schrottky, 1906 ((Glyptochlora Moure, 1958) (Glyptobasia (Moure, 1941)))). Photographs of external morphological characters, illustrations of the male genital capsule and the metasomal sterna SIII-SVIII are provided, as well as a taxonomic key to subgenera and distribution maps.
Variación temporal de la distribución espacial por edades de Phoenicopterus ruber (Phoenicopteriformes: Phoenicopteridae) en los humedales de Yucatán, México
Authors: Plasencia Vázquez Alexis Herminio , Gálvez-Aguilera Xiomara , Ferrer-Sánchez Yarelys , Serrano-Rodríguez Anay
Published: November 2017

The Caribbean Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber) in Mexico is distributed throughout the complex of lagoons in coastal wetlands of the Yucatan Peninsula. The species shows a tendency toward differential use of areas between juveniles and adults at different stages of their life cycle, and in different seasons. The aim of this study was to determine the most important areas where flamingos are distributed in Yucatan wetlands, and to describe temporal variations according to age and stages of their life cycle. For this, we used the records of ringed individuals sighted during the period 2010-2015. The areas with the largest numbers of individuals, by stage and season, were identified. Flamingos were recorded in 39 different areas of 43 sampled. In general, the sites with the largest number of records were Isla La Angostura and Punta Mecoh. To both juveniles and adults, areas with higher occupancy rates differed by age between the different stages of the life cycle and seasons. In the Charca Salinera Chel and Isla La Angostura ringed flamingos of almost all ages were recorded. Although already described areas (Celestún, Ría Lagartos) are certainly important, new sites hosting considerable populations at some stage of this species life cycle were detected (e.g. Humedal Progreso; Salamandra, Laguna Rosada; Xcambo). These new sites should be given more attention and important security measures and protection are recommended to all of them. It is necessary to seek new support sources for studies that determine the flamingo population’s status in difficult access areas for which little information is available.
Actividad contra Trypanosoma cruzi (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) de extractos metanólicos de plantas de uso medicinal en México
Authors: Pérez-Treviño Karla Carmelita , Galaviz Lucio , Iracheta-Villarreal Jesús Mario , Lucero-Velasco Eliud Alonso , Molina-Garza Zinnia Judith
Published: November 2017

American trypanosomiasis is a potentially lethal disease caused by the hemoflagellate protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. This neglected disease affects from 6 to 7 million people worldwide. Currently there are only two medicines to treat this disease: beznidazol and nifurtimox, both effective if they are administrated in the acute phase of infection, although their effectiveness fades away in the chronic phase; it also induces significant side effects. The aim of this study is to screen the trypanocidal activity of methanolic extracts from Hematoxilum brasiletto, Marrubium vulgare, Schinus molle, and Cympongon citratus, against T. cruzi epimastigotes, followed by the chromatographic separation, and identification of active compounds of the best candidate by colored chemical reactions; furthermore, it was also determined their cytotoxic effect in human lymphocytes and the brine shrimp Artemia salina. The extract of H. brasiletto showed the highest anti-T. cruzi activity with a inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 543 µg/mL; in descending order, it was followed by M. vulgare (IC50 = 647 µg/mL), S. molle (IC = 827 µg/mL) and finally, C. citratus (IC = 1 210 µg/mL). The chromatographic fraction Fr22 from H. brasiletto showed the best anti-T. cruzi effectivity (IC50 = 0.238 mg/mL), when compared to the other fraction or the whole extract, with no cytotoxic effect against human lymphocytes or A. salina. The active compounds were identified as tannins, quinones, flavonoids and sesquiterpenlactones. In conclusion, active compounds against T. cruzi were identified for the first time in H. brasiletto, with non-cytotoxic effects. The H. brasiletto extract, according to our results, could be used as an alternative treatment for the Chagas disease; however, additional studies will be necessary to test their activity and doses in a murine model, with the complete identification of the active compounds, on which we are investigating.
Regional growth and convergence in Spain: Is the decentralisation model important?
Authors: Hernández-Salmerón E. Macarena , Usabiaga Carlos
Published: November 2017

This paper deals with the effects of political decentralisation on economic growth in Spain, an issue that has generated heated debates in recent decades. Our analysis of the last three and a half decades, a period characterised by the weak narrowing of the income per capita gap within regions, does not offer conclusive results on convergence and points to the importance of alternative factors. Several proxies were used to capture the decentralisation process. We also studied some potential interactions between decentralisation and other variables. All in all, our empirical evidence shows robustly that transferring more responsibilities to subnational governments does not significantly affect growth in any sense.
A parametric database study of no-erosion filter tests
Authors: Tabatabaie Shourijeh Piltan , Soroush Abbas , Shams Molavi Sina , Ramezani Fouladi Sina
Published: November 2017

Modern filter design procedures for embankment dams respect criteria stemming from no-erosion filter (NEF) tests. The widespread application of NEF testing has provided experimental evidence of some deviations from the established filter criteria. This paper provides a complementary update to similar database studies of NEF test results. A large database of NEF tests, consisting of 258 group I and group II core soils (i.e. having more than 35% fines content) was analysed and the effects of various core soil characteristics (gradation, fines content, clay content, plasticity index and dispersivity) on experimentally defined no-erosion boundary filters were assessed. The database is unique, as it compiles the largest set of NEF test results. Through rigorous statistical and parametrical analysis, this paper critically compares current filter design criteria with experimental results and provides new insights that may assist and improve current procedures of critical filter design.
Observation of sand movement during bucket installation
Authors: Kim Jae Hyun , Lee Seung Tae , Kim Dong Soo
Published: November 2017

The occurrence of soil-plug heave during bucket installation is one of the major problems in successful installation of bucket foundation at a desired depth. It is usually caused by the upward seepage flow created by continuous pumping out of water from inside the bucket as well as due to shear failure of the soil along the skirt wall during skirt penetration. This soil-plug heave eventually hinders the bucket to be installed at a targeted depth and hence affects its performance. This paper, therefore, presents the result of a series of bucket installation tests using half-bucket foundation performed in a box equipped with a transparent window for directly observing the soil movement around the bucket during installation. Continuous images were captured simultaneously during the entire suction installation process and subsequently analysed by particle image velocimetry to quantify the soil movement. The results provide: (a) the trend of suction pressure with wall embedment; (b) soil-displacement pattern and (c) the effects of penetration rate (i.e. water-pumping rate) and wall thickness on the soil displacement. The results also provide comprehensive insights into the mechanism of soil disturbance, including soil-heave formation, during suction installation.
Uncertainty-based prediction of work zone capacity using a Bayesian approach
Authors: Weng Jinxian , Yu Yao , Ma Lu
Published: November 2017

The uncertainty-based work zone capacity model is formulated as a mixed linear regression function of explanatory variables where capacity is a random variable following a lognormal distribution. Model parameters are calibrated using a Bayesian approach. Results show that the proposed work zone capacity distribution model can accurately predict the mean and prediction interval of work zone capacity at any given confidence level. It is found that work zones located in urban roads, with a larger number of open lanes or with long-term work duration have a larger mean work zone capacity. A short prediction interval (i.e. low uncertainty) for work zone capacity is found to be associated with the following situations: (a) a bigger number of open lanes; (b) rural work zone; (c) short-term work duration; (d) left lane closure; (e) daytime work and (f) a smaller percentage of heavy vehicles. The predicted interval length for the medium level of work intensity is increased, although the corresponding mean work zone capacity is reduced, as compared with the light level of work intensity. There will be a bigger measured work zone capacity on average if the measurement method is adopted in which work zone capacity is taken as the mean queue-discharge rate.
La universidad: ¿empresa o utopía?
Authors: Quijano Restrepo Luis Guillermo
Published: November 2017

El presente ensayo tiene como objetivo reflexionar desde un punto de vista filosófico, sobre el destino de la universidad con relación a las nuevas directrices de la llamada “Economía del conocimiento” que se ha posicionado como la ruta conveniente que debe asumir la formación superior y que se centra en la predominancia del pensamiento calculador.  Frente a esta posición se encuentra la postura humanística que dio origen y desarrollo a la universidad histórica bajo el principio de la libertad.  Esta visión, en cambio, privilegia la formación en el hombre y su pensamiento reflexivo, en aras de su autonomía.  ¿Es esta última postura una utopía más?
Assign taxonomy to gene calls using Centrifuge v2
Authors: E Thornton Jr James
Published: November 2017

Uses a custom Centrifuge pipeline to assign taxonomy to gene calls.
Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) model simulation of hourly PM10 concentrations during sea breeze events in the Split area
Authors:   Meteorological and Hydrological Service Zagreb, Croatia, Trošić Lesar Tanja , Filipčić Anita
Published: November 2017

The main objective of this study is to simulate the daily change of the particulate matter (PM10) concentrations using a multiple linear regression (MLR) model for the selected sea breeze cases in Split and Kaštel-Sućurac, which are situated in the central part of the Eastern Adriatic coast, for the period from 2007 to 2009. A new predictor characteristic to the daily and nightly part of the coastal circulation is included in the MLR model. The MLR model results well match the PM10 concentration measurements during the selected sea breeze cases in Split (with the correlation coefficient R2=0.77 and the index of the agreement IA = 0.89) and Kaštel-Sućurac (R2=0.65, IA =0.81), and they also match the measurements during land breeze (for Split R2=0.66, IA=0.86 and for Kaštel-Sućurac R2=0.66, IA=0.70).
Perspectives and Potential of the Adriatic Sea Ports
Authors:   Institute of Technology and Business Department of Transport and Logistics, České Budějovice, Czech Republic, Kolář Jiří
Published: November 2017

The paper deals with a description of potential options of the Adriatic Sea ports. It characterizes the importance of international trade in ports on the Adriatic Seanorthern coast, particularly with a focus on the port of Rijeka. This paper also outlines statements that the position of this port would be strengthened by itsinterconnectingwith the Rail Freight Corridor 5 which now ends at the port of Koper. As a recommendation in the context of intermodal transport management, the paper presents especially the proposal to utilize services of the company RCO CSKD Intrans, s.r.o. which operatescombined transporttrains to several terminals and ports.
Green Logistics: Element of the Sustainable Development Concept. Part 1
Authors:   Department of Logistics and Transportation, Systems Management, Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University, Rakhmangulov Aleksandr , Sladkowski Aleksander , Osintsev Nikita , Muravev Dmitri
Published: November 2017

Nowadays, the reduction of the harmful effect on the environment is one of the essential state-level and international challenges. The solution of this problem lies in a worldwide use of concepts and principles of sustainable development, but also in transport and logistics performance by principles and methods of green logistics. The first part of the paper presents the review of the most authoritative studies in the field of sustainable development and green logistics. The second part of the article reflects the original approach to achieving the goals of sustainable development in the operation of logistics and transport systems based on the harmonisation of economic purposes and principles of logistics with principles of sustainable development that are reached through the systematisation of reviewed methods and instruments of logistics.