bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Idéias para uma sociologia da questão ambiental − teoria social, sociologia ambiental e interdisciplinaridade
Authors: FERREIRA Leila Da COSTA
Published: July 2014

Tendo a sociologia ambiental como centro da abordagem este texto focaliza, de forma analítica, a evolução do envolvimento da ciência social no trato da problemática ambiental. Esta evolução parte de uma análise dos pensadores clássicos da sociologia e vai até o momento presente. Ao tratar da relação entre questão ambiental, ciências sociais e interdisciplinaridade no Brasil, o texto evoca instituições acadêmicas e científicas, bem como a produção intelectual no país, e conclui por constatar que ocorreu uma internalização desta questão nas ciências sociais brasileiras. Ideas for an environmental issues sociology − social theory, environmental sociology and interdisciplinarity Abstract With environmental sociology as its central approach, this text places an analytical focus on the evolution of social sciences involvement in addressing the environmental issue. This evolution stems from an analysis of sociologys classical thinkers from the past until the present day. In addressing the relationship between the environmental issue, social sciences, and interdisciplinarity in Brazil, the text brings to the fore academic and scientific institutions as well as the countrys intellectual production, and concludes by showing that this issue has become an integral part of social sciences in Brazil.
Novas formas de gestão dos manguezais brasileiros: a Baía de Paranaguá como estudo de caso
Authors: LANA Paulo Da Cunha
Published: July 2014

Este relato avalia e apresenta alternativas para o atual modelo de controle e apropriação social dos manguezais da Baía de Paranaguá, com sugestões para o seu zoneamento e a eventual adoção de estratégias de gestão patrimonial. A sugestão básica é a de que a gestão dos manguezais regionais não deve ser confundida com conservação estrita, como sugerido pela legislação ambiental. New ways of managing brazilian mangroves: the Paranaguá Bay study case Abstract This report assesses and presents alternatives to the current control and social appropriation model of Paranaguá Bays mangroves, including zoning suggestions and the eventual adoption of ownership management strategies. The basic suggestion is that the management of the regional mangroves should not be mistaken with strict conservation, as suggested by environmental legislation.
Aspectos físicos das dinâmicas de ambientes costeiros, seus usos e conflitos
Authors: ANGULO Rodolfo José
Published: July 2014

Os ambientes costeiros são extremamente dinâmicos, neles convergem processos terrestres, oceânicos e atmosféricos, que alteram constantemente suas características. Um dos principais desafios da geologia, oceanografia e engenharia costeiras e compreender como e porque estas mudanças ocorrem. Por outro lado à ocupação das zonas costeiras é complexa, diversificada e gera numerosos conflitos. Apesar das diversas iniciativas para diminuir estes conflitos ainda é necessário percorrer um longo caminho para resolver os problemas. Ainda faltam definições importantes tais como: Que litoral nos queremos? Qual é o litoral ideal e qual é possível de ser construído? Como gerir a zona litorânea? Ainda precisamos entender melhor como funciona o litoral do ponto de vista geológico e oceanográfico; mas, sobretudo, devemos entender as inter-relações com as dinâmicas biológicas, econômicas e sociais, políticas, legais e institucionais. Physical aspects of coastal environments dynamics: uses and conflicts Abstract Coastal environments are extremely dynamic. They are the meeting point of land, ocean, and atmospheric processes that are constantly changing their features. One of the main challenges posed to geology, oceanography, and coastal engineering is the understanding of how and why these changes occur. Conversely, the occupation of coastal zones is complex, diversified, and leads to many conflicts. Despite the numerous attempts at reducing these conflicts, we are still a long way from solving these problems. Important definitions are still missing: What kind of coast do we want? What is the ideal coastal area like and what can be built on it? How do we manage coastal areas? We still need to understand better how the coastline works geologically and oceanographically. But above all else, we need to understand its interrelationships with biologic, economic, social, political, legal, and institutional dynamics.
Análise do mercado de produtos orgânicos: estudo de caso de feira em Ponta Grossa, PR
Authors: Smolinski Ricardo , Guerreiro Eziquiel , Raiher Augusta Pelinski
Published: July 2014

O objetivo deste trabalho consiste em analisar o mercado de produtos orgânicos no Paraná, verificando o crescimento da sua produção em comparação aos produtos tradicionais, analisando a elasticidade-preço da demanda dos produtos orgânicos e identificando as principais características dos seus consumidores. Para tanto, utilizaram-se dados secundários e dados oriundos de uma pesquisa de mercado feita no município de Ponta Grossa, Paraná. Os resultados demonstraram que o mercado, tanto em termos de oferta de produtos orgânicos como em relação ao número de agricultores, está em crescimento. Na análise quanto ao comportamento da demanda por esses bens, principalmente no que se refere à sensibilidade dos consumidores frente aos seus preços, verificou-se que os produtos orgânicos são bens elásticos, onde a quantidade demandada responde fortemente às variações no preço. Mais precisamente, observou-se que as pessoas com maior renda estão dispostas a pagar mais por produtos orgânicos, do mesmo modo que pessoas que têm maior escolaridade também estão dispostas a pagar mais por esses bens, destacando que o principal motivo pelo qual se consomem orgânicos está na preocupação com a saúde.
A institucionalização das políticas e da gestão ambiental no Brasil: avanços, obstáculos e contradições
Authors: Lima Gustavo Ferreira da Costa
Published: July 2014

O trabalho propõe uma reflexão sobre o processo recente de institucionalização das políticas e da gestão ambiental no Brasil. Revisa a literatura da área a partir de referenciais da Ecologia Política que nas décadas finais do século XX emergiu como um novo campo de saber fundado na crítica e na politização dos problemas ambientais, a partir de uma reflexão sobre sua gênese, conseqüências, contradições e possíveis alternativas. Essa alteração foi feita por sugestão dos pareceristas Nessa discussão, articula os conceitos de política e gestão ambiental, sustentabilidade democrática e democracia participativa, além de outros menos centrais. Procura refletir sobre os avanços, obstáculos e contradições do processo citado e verificar se ele foi capaz de conter a degradação ambiental e instituir uma sustentabilidade democrática no país. O artigo constata que as políticas ambientais avançaram relativamente no Brasil, sobretudo, em aspectos legais e institucionais, em uma tendência à descentralização, na difusão da informação sobre os problemas ambientais no interior da sociedade e na construção da noção de desenvolvimento sustentável, como recurso discursivo na conciliação dos conflitos entre meio ambiente e desenvolvimento. Constituiu-se, por um lado, um sistema governamental de agências ambientais nos três níveis de governo e, por outro lado, um aparato jurídico amplo, reconhecido pelos especialistas como um dos mais avançados do mundo. Contudo, apesar desses avanços relativos, a análise conclui que as políticas ambientais no Brasil avançaram de um modo contraditório e vacilante e não foram capazes de superar a crescente degradação ambiental e os conflitos políticos e econômicos decorrentes da expansão capitalista no país.
Direitos e/ou povos e comunidades tradicionais: noções de classificação em disputa
Authors: Oliveira Assis Da Costa
Published: July 2014

Os cenários de construção das bases teórico-normativas da categoria povos e comunidades tradicionais são analisados no presente artigo para identificação dos pontos de disputa de classificação e os dilemas decorrentes da (in)compatibilidade entre identidades/dinâmicas culturais e categorias analíticas. A articulação da Antropologia com o Direito possibilita empreender a valorização das autodefinições dos agentes oriundos de povos e comunidades tradicionais, assim como desconstruir as condições ideológicas do campo jurídico via reinterpretação da tradição e do direito à participação como pré-requisitos para a transformação dos grupos em sujeitos de direitos – destinatários de normas jurídicas – e em sujeitos do direito – produtores e administradores das normas jurídicas que lhes cabem.
A internalização da variável ambiental nas indústrias do Paraná (1970 a 2006): uma análise neoinstitucional da relação entre política ambiental e indústria
Authors: Capelari Mauro Guilherme Maidana , Borinelli Benilson , Vieira Saulo Fabiano Amâncio , Rodrigues Emersom Márcio
Published: July 2014

Este trabalho objetiva apresentar evidências para a compreensão do processo de internalização da variável ambiental nas indústrias do Estado do Paraná, a partir da relação entre indústria e política de regulação ambiental do Paraná. O período analisado foi de 1970 a 2006. A pesquisa possuiu abordagem teórica neoinstitucional e dois momentos de análise: reativo e proativo. No que tange aos procedimentos metodológicos, a pesquisa valeu-se de dados coletados em fontes documentais e entrevistas. Nos resultados obtidos, especificamente no período reativo, destacou-se a importância crescente das ações do governo como agentes exógenos de pressão ambiental. Além disso, as atividades ambientais das indústrias eram marcadas pelo uso de tecnologias de “fim de tubo”. Em relação à fase proativa, destacou-se a edificação de arranjos produtivos locais que permitiram o uso parcial de tecnologias de prevenção à poluição. Concomitantemente, notou-se uma política ambiental do Estado mais receptiva a mecanismos econômicos. Entre 1970 e 2006, percebeu-se uma mudança na atuação da política ambiental paranaense, quando suas ações passam a incorporar elementos de mercado aliados a instrumentos de comando e controle. Em que pese isso, as indústrias passaram a implementar timidamente tecnologias ambientais de prevenção à poluição em detrimento de tecnologias exclusivamente de tratamento dessa poluição.
Sobre a medição da componente ambiental do desenvolvimento: principais abordagens e indicadores
Authors: Moreira Sandrina Berthault
Published: July 2014

Os indicadores ambientais são especialmente apelativos no estudo entre o desenvolvimento e essa dimensão constitutiva do fenómeno. Neste artigo, apresentamos duas categorias distintas de indicadores ambientais, demarcando-os de um leque de indicadores mais abrangentes – os indicadores de sustentabilidade. Por outro lado, discutimos com mais detalhe as três iniciativas que elegemos para um monitoramento regular do estado do ambiente (incluindo a sua sustentabilidade): (i) Necessidades Totais de Materiais; (ii) Capital Natural; (iii) Pegada Ecológica.
A natureza (dos) nos fatos urbanos: produção do espaço e degradação ambiental
Authors: PEREIRA Gislene
Published: July 2014

Este trabalho pretende discutir a relação entre o processo de construção do espaço urbano, a segregação socioespacial e a degradação ambiental. A urbanização crescente da população no Brasil tem feito com que os problemas decorrentes desse processo (carência de infra-estrutura, densificação de áreas inadequadas, degradação ambiental, segregação socioespacial) centralizem nas últimas décadas as discussões de governantes, técnicos e cientistas sociais. Cabe, então, perguntar: por que nossas cidades não têm a qualidade que todos queremos, mesmo depois das inúmeras iniciativas preconizadas pelo poder público para reversão dessas tendências negativas? Nosso interesse aqui é discutir essas questões a partir do caso particular da cidade de Curitiba, a qual, apesar de vir se destacando por experiências bem sucedidas de planejamento, segue os padrões brasileiros no que se refere à segregação socioespacial. Entendemos que a discussão das questões urbanas deve ser centrada nos elementos que contribuem para a segregação socioespacial e nas possibilidades e limites das políticas públicas de controle do uso do solo respondendo de forma positiva para a sua superação. A partir do conhecimento da lógica da produção do espaço o trabalho pretende averiguar as possibilidades de integração das políticas urbanas, com o objetivo de promover a melhoria da qualidade ambiental. The nature (of) our urban facts: productions of space and environmental degradation Abstract This work intends to discuss the relation among the process of construction of the urban space, the social-spacial segregation and the environmental degradation. The growing urbanisation of the Brazilian population has led the problems which come from such process  lack of infrastructure, unsuitable densification of areas, environmental degradation, social-space segregation  to centralize the discussion of governmental rulings, technicians and social scientists. So, its worthy to ask: why our cities do not have the quality we want, even after several initiatives advocated by the public policies to revert these negative trends? Our interest here is to discuss such questions from the particular case of Curitiba city, the one which, despite of being standing out itself throughout well-succeded experiences of planning, follows the Brazilian patterns related to the social-spacial segregation. We understand that the discussion of urban questions must be focused on the elements which contribute to the social-spacial segregation and on the possibilities and limits of the public policies to answer in a positive way to their overcoming. From the knowledge of the production logic of the space, this work intends to check out the possibilities of integration of the urban policies, with the aim of promoting the increasing of the environmental quality.
Origens de uma política urbano-ambiental
Authors: ULTRAMARI Clovis
Published: July 2014

Este artigo discute a imposição de responsabilidades crescentes à gestão urbana na busca de soluções para problemas sociais e ambientais. Por um lado, as cidades são o cenário para programas de investimentos estrangeiros que obrigam governos nacionais a ajustes estruturais; por outro, assumem o compromisso do resgate de suas populações por meio de iniciativas próprias. Paralelamente, essas cidades, na falta de referência nacional em termos de uma política urbana de país, internaliza discursos internacionais, ora progressistas, ora tradicionais; na maioria das vezes, reproduzindo o interesse de agências financiadoras ou de fomento. A fonte referencial das políticas urbanas passa a ser então diversificada. Para ilustrar algumas das idéias do artigo, exemplifica-se posições de autores e gestores urbanos com atuação internacional e vinculados a instituições que se considera formuladores e/ou fomentadores de políticas. Origins of contemporary urban environmental policies Abstract This article discusses the increasing responsibilities to be fulfilled by the city management in finding solutions to social and environmental problems. On one side, cities are the locus of international loans programmes that oblige national governments to adopt structural adjustments; on the other, cities are obliged to rescue their population from social crises. At the same time, these cities, lacking national reference in terms of a country urban policy, adopt international models, some progressist, some very traditional. Sources for these policies are now diverse. In order to illustrate some ideas, the article presents examples of statements made by scientists and city managers representing institutions that formulate and foster policies at international level.
Otra lectura a la historia de la educación ambiental en América Latina y el Caribe
Authors: GAUDIANO Edgar GONZÁLEZ
Published: July 2014

Desde Stockholm, 1972, foram poucas e insuficientes as tentativas de escrever a história da educação ambiental que vão além de referências obrigatórias para fóruns internacionais sobre o assunto. Por conta disso, senti a necessidade de preparar um levantamento histórico no sentido de mostrar os eventos que definiram direções que a educação ambiental vem tomando na América Latina e a região do Caribe. Esses eventos que não aparecem normalmente em análises desta área, por serem mais afins com a área de economia, política e cultura, estão, ainda assim, dentro das fronteiras pertinentes e estão, por conseguinte, frequentemente em conflito com os sistemas de educação oficial e as recomendações dos organismos internacionais. Tentei fazer uma leitura diferente e uma construção de um marco que nos dê novos elementos e que nos leve a uma melhor compreensão e a uma visão mais clara do nosso engajamento. Resumen Son escasos los intentos por formular una historia de la educación ambiental más allá de las obligadas referencias a las reuniones internacionales sobre el tema que han tenido lugar desde la de Estocolmo en 1972. Consideré necesario, sin embargo, hacer una reconstrucción histórica más acorde al conjunto de acontecimientos que han marcado los rumbos que transita la educación ambiental en este momento dentro de la región latinoamericana y caribeña. Se tratan de acontecimientos que no suelen articularse al análisis del campo por estar insertos en el terreno de lo económico, de lo político, o de lo cultural, pero se encuentran en los márgenes de lo que se considera el campo de la educación ambiental. Se sostiene aquí que la educación ambiental en la región se ha construido precisamente en esos márgenes y, por lo tanto, a menudo en pugna tanto con los sistemas educativos oficiales como con las prescripciones de los organismos internacionales. He pretendido hacer una lectura distinta y construir un entramado que nos aporte otros elementos para entender y proyectar mejor nuestro propio quehacer.
A integração de conhecimentos e a dicotomia compreender/explicar
Authors: HEEMANN Ademar
Published: July 2014

A integração de conhecimentos é um dos princípios que constituem o pano de fundo do Curso de Doutorado em Meio Ambiente e Desenvolvimento. Nesse contexto, tem se insistido no exame das dicotomias natureza/sociedade, homem/animal, ciências/humanidades. A presente reflexão trata de alguns conceitos utilizados na abordagem dessas dicotomias, realizando incursões pelos conceitos de redução, holismo e incomensurabilidade. Concluindo, apresenta uma perspectiva para as démarches interdisciplinares construída a partir da antinomia compreender/explicar. The integration of knowledge and the dichotomy understanding/explaining Abstract The integration of knowledge is one of the underlying principles of the Doctoral Program in studies of Environmental and Development. Within this context, the examination of the dichotomies nature/ society, man/animal, sciences/humanities has been considerered crucial. The present reflections revolve around some of the concepts used in the discussion of these dichotomies, resorting to concepts such as reduction, holism and incommensurability. In conclusion, it offers a perspective on the routes to be taken by interdisciplinary work that starts from the antinomy understanding/explaining.
Ética, natureza e a insistente busca do fundamento último
Authors: LIMA José Edmilson De Souza
Published: July 2014

O propósito do presente ensaio é identificar conexões entre alguns autores  filósofos, sociólogos, biólogos e pensadores em geral  que se ocuparam ou se ocupam de temas envolvendo o binômio natureza e ética. Trata-se, portanto, de um estudo exploratório, mas com pretensões de avançar no debate. No primeiro bloco, a idéia é explicitar as possíveis bases para a consolidação do pensamento de Darwin. No segundo bloco, a idéia é tornar visível a rejeição de Weber face à ética da convicção e a qualquer idéia que remeta a fundamentos últimos, acompanhada de sua adesão à ética da responsabilidade. No terceiro bloco, a idéia é identificar pontos de convergências entre a capacidade de ensimesmar-se e a criação de uma nova subjetividade humana. Ethics, Nature and an insistant search for the latest concept Abstract This essay intends to identify connections among some philosophers, sociologists, biologists and savant in general that already studied themes related with ethic and nature. This is an exploratory research, but it intends to advance in the discussion. First of all this essay explains the possible basis of the Darwins thought. At the second part explains the Webers refuse about the convictions ethic and his option for the responsibilitys ethic. Finally, this essay identify points of convergency between the capacity of the human being ensimesmar-se and the creation of the new human subjectivity.
Sentindo o espaço arquitetônico
Authors: CASTELNOU Antonio Manuel Nunes
Published: July 2014

O enfoque principal deste trabalho está na relação entre tradição e arquitetura. Tem como objetivo apresentar noções sobre a compreensão do vernáculo aplicado à arquitetura, ressaltando a sua importância no estudo da arquitetura ecológica como sistema multi-sensorial. O texto foi originalmente desenvolvido na disciplina Natureza e Ética, do Curso de Doutorado em Meio Ambiente e Desenvolvimento, da Universidade Federal do Paraná  UFPR, sob orientação do professor Dr. Ademar Heemann. Feeling the architectonic space Abstract This study focuses on the relationship between tradition and architecture. It aims at presenting notions on vernacular understanding applied to architecture, emphasizing its importance in the study of the ecological architecture as a multisensorial system. This paper was originally developed in Ethics and Nature, a course in the Doctorate Studies Program in Environment and Development of UFPR, tutored by Ademar Heemann, Dr.
Premissas para o design conceitual de um Sistema de Informação Ambiental(SIA) a partir da abordagem teórica de Wenger
Authors: PIPER Sieglinde , AGUDELO Libia Patricia Peralta , SOUZA Marcelo Stein de Lima
Published: July 2014

Argumenta-se que estamos vivendo na Era da Informação. Neste contexto, a crescente necessidade de comunicar-se, gerar conhecimentos e transmitir idéias tem criado desafios a serem solucionados mediante o uso das Tecnologias da Informação (TI). Pesquisadores da área vêm constatando as dificuldades de identificação que existem entre os usuários e os Sistemas de Informação tradicionalmente projetados. Investigam-se neste trabalho as dimensões que devem ser levadas em conta no design conceitual de um Sistema de Informação que estimule a participação e aumente os níveis de aprendizado dos envolvidos baseado nas teorias sociais do aprendizado propostas por Etienne Wenger. Para exemplificar a aplicação das abordagens genéricas a uma área específica do conhecimento, optou-se pela investigação das premissas para o design de um Sistema de Informação Ambiental (SIA) já que considera-se que a problemática ambiental, devido à sua complexidade, promove a transformação dos atuais saberes teóricos e práticos. Aprofundaram-se assim as investigações sobre a relação entre a informação e os seres humanos, na busca e aplicação prática de um saber ambiental. Premises of a conceptual design of a System of Environmental Information from Wenger`s theoretical approach Abstract Some argue that we are currently living in the so called Information Age. In that context, the need to communicate, generate knowledge and transmit ideas has created new challenges that need to be solved through the use of Information Technology (IT). However, researchers in the field have identified difficulties between users and traditionally conceived systems. The present study has the objective of investigating the dimensions that need to be considered in the conceptual design of an IT system. It is believed that such system should stimulate active participation and enhance the learning capacity of those involved. With that aim, studies were fundamented on theories of social learning principles proposed by Etienne Wenger. In order to base the research on a specific subject, the required premisses for the design of an Environmental Information System (EIS) were investigated, since environmental problems are complex and promote transformations in theoretical and practical knowledge. Therefore, emphasis was given to the relationship between information and human beings in their search for practical application of a so called environmental knowledge.
Cidades, sustentabilidade e risco
Authors: FERREIRA Leila Da Costa
Published: July 2014

O artigo enfoca o processo de globalização e as metrópoles, considerando que em futuro próximo as megacidades estarão concentradas em países emergentes. De outra forma, à aceleração da desigualdade social soma-se a crise do Estado, que inviabilizou o seu poder de investimento em infra-estrutura e serviços sociais. Como resultado, para uma parcela crescente da população, a vida urbana também passou a ser sinônimo de desemprego, miséria, violência, favelas, congestionamentos e poluição, consubstanciando indicadores de má qualidade de vida e de riscos à população. Cities, sustainability and risk Abstract The article focuses on the globalization process and on the metropolis, considering that in the near future, the megacities will be concentrated in the third world nations. More over, to the growing social inequality it is added the crisis of the state government, which has turned impractical its power to invest in infrastructure and social services. As a result, to an increasing number of people, the urban life became also a synonymou to unemployment, misery, violence, shanty towns, traffic jams and pollution, consolidating low life quality and population risk indicators.
Teorias espaciais contemporâneas: o conceito de competitividade sistêmica e o paradigma da sustentabilidade ambiental
Authors: DINIZ FILHO Luis Lopes , VICENTINI Yara
Published: July 2014

O artigo aborda paradigmas da utopia ambiental da cidade sustentável, discutindo as definições de sustentabilidade, aliada à transferência economicista do termo competitividade, entendendo que as estratégias de desenvolvimento devem pautar-se em progressivos investimentos para a obtenção de melhores índices de qualidade de vida, conforme indicadores internacionais. Trata da assimilação de modelos definidos para grandes capitais mundializadas, em realidades diferenciadas na miséria metropolitana do terceiro mundo. Nesses termos, aos paradigmas presentes nas propostas de reorganização espacial e produtiva do território, assim como nas reformas urbanas contemporâneas em curso nas cidades mundiais, não correspondem possibilidades de investimento e renda geral da população na América Latina, resultando em assimilações incompletas de políticas de gestão urbana ou em cenários mal acabados de projetos urbanos. Contemporany spacial theories: the concept of competitiveness and the paradigm of environmental sustainability Abstract This paper deals with broaches the paradigms of the environmental utopia of the sustainability cities, arguing about the sustainability concept, allied with the economicist transference of the term competitiveness, understanding that development strategies must support themselves in progressive investiments on achieving better life quality indicators, based on internacional levels. It treats about the assimilation of models defined to world cities, in differing realities in the third world metropolitan misery. This way the paradigms of spacial and productive territory reorganization proposals, just like on the contemporary urban reforms going on the global cities, do not correspond to the possibilities of investment and general incoming of the Latin America population, resulting in incomplete assimilations of urban management policies or in badly finished urban projects scenaries.
High temperature sensitivity is intrinsic to voltage-gated potassium channels
Authors: Yang Fan , Zheng Jie
Published: July 2014

Temperature-sensitive transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels are members of the large tetrameric cation channels superfamily but are considered to be uniquely sensitive to heat, which has been presumed to be due to the existence of an unidentified temperature-sensing domain. Here we report that the homologous voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels also exhibit high temperature sensitivity comparable to that of TRPV1, which is detectable under specific conditions when the voltage sensor is functionally decoupled from the activation gate through either intrinsic mechanisms or mutations. Interestingly, mutations could tune Shaker channel to be either heat-activated or heat-deactivated. Therefore, high temperature sensitivity is intrinsic to both TRP and Kv channels. Our findings suggest important physiological roles of heat-induced variation in Kv channel activities. Mechanistically our findings indicate that temperature-sensing TRP channels may not contain a specialized heat-sensor domain; instead, non-obligatory allosteric gating permits the intrinsic heat sensitivity to drive channel activation, allowing temperature-sensitive TRP channels to function as polymodal nociceptors.
Digital Droplet PCR: CNV Analysis and Other Applications
Authors: Mazaika Erica , Homsy Jason
Published: July 2014

Digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) is an assay that combines state‐of‐the‐art microfluidics technology with TaqMan‐based PCR to achieve precise target DNA quantification at high levels of sensitivity and specificity. Because quantification is achieved without the need for standard assays in an easy to interpret, unambiguous digital readout, ddPCR is far simpler, faster, and less error prone than real‐time qPCR. The basic protocol can be modified with minor adjustments to suit a wide range of applications, such as CNV analysis, rare variant detection, SNP genotyping, and transcript quantification. This unit describes the ddPCR workflow in detail for the Bio‐Rad QX100 system, but the theory and data interpretation are generalizable to any ddPCR system. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 82:7.24.1‐7.24.13. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Dynamics of lithospheric thinning and mantle melting by edge‐driven convection: Application to Moroccan Atlas mountains
Authors: Kaislaniemi Lars , van Hunen Jeroen
Published: July 2014

Edge‐driven convection (EDC) forms in the upper mantle at locations of lithosphere thickness gradients, e.g., craton edges. In this study we show how the traditional style of EDC, a convection cell governed by the cold downwelling below an edge alternates with another style of EDC, in which the convection cell forms as a secondary feature with a hot asthenospheric shear flow from underneath the thicker lithosphere. These alternating EDC styles produce episodic lithosphere erosion and decompression melting. Three‐dimensional models of EDC show that convection rolls form perpendicular to the thickness gradient at the lithosphere‐asthenosphere boundary. Stagnant‐lid convection scaling laws are used to gain further insight in the underlying physical processes. Application of our models to the Moroccan Atlas mountains region shows that the combination of these two styles of EDC can reproduce many of the observations from the Atlas mountains, including two distinct periods of Cenozoic volcanism, a semicontinuous corridor of thinned lithosphere under the Atlas mountains, and piecewise delamination of the lithosphere. A very good match between observations and numerical models is found for the lithosphere thicknesses across the study area, amounts of melts produced, and the length of the quiet gap in between volcanic episodes show quantitative match to observations.
Effect of latent heat of freezing on crustal generation at low spreading rates
Authors: Sleep Norman H. , Warren Jessica M.
Published: July 2014

Lithospheric structure changes at low spreading rates (<40 mm a−1), such that steady state molten rock cannot exist above the normal Moho depth of ∼6 km. Dredge statistics of recovered lithologies indicate that the percentage of basalt is significantly decreased compared to faster ridges and that the mode of crust generation is variable. One important effect on lithospheric structure is the latent heat released when basaltic magma freezes within the mantle, instead of being transported all the way to the surface. Using thermal models, we show that freezing of melt at mantle depths buffers temperature due to the latent heat of crystallization. Two quasi‐stable seafloor‐spreading patterns are imposed on the model: (1) upwelling of magma along a narrow axial zone and (2) pure shear extension over a broad zone. The variability in crustal structure predicted by these models explains variability observed in dredge lithology statistics at eight slow to ultraslow spreading ridge segments. For example, the Gakkel Eastern Volcanic Zone and Sparsely Magmatic Zone are both spreading at 12 mm a−1, but the former is composed of 7% peridotite, whereas the latter is 46% peridotite. This difference can be explained by a change from a narrow axis regime with ∼2 km thick crust to a wide axis regime with a crust‐mantle mix. Overall, dredge statistics and thermal models suggest that some, but not all, latent heat of ascending magmas is released at mantle depths and that various ridge axial morphologies can occur.
Sea level anomalies exacerbate beach erosion
Authors: Theuerkauf Ethan J. , Rodriguez Antonio B. , Fegley Stephen R. , Luettich Richard A.
Published: July 2014

Sea level anomalies are intra‐seasonal increases in water level forced by meteorological and oceanographic processes unrelated to storms. The effects of sea level anomalies on beach morphology are unknown but important to constrain because these events have been recognized over large stretches of continental margins. Here, we present beach erosion measurements along Onslow Beach, a barrier island on the U.S. East Coast, in response to a year with frequent sea level anomalies and no major storms. The anomalies enabled extensive erosion, which was similar and in most places greater than the erosion that occurred during a year with a hurricane. These results highlight the importance of sea level anomalies in facilitating coastal erosion and advocate for their inclusion in beach‐erosion models and management plans. Sea level anomalies amplify the erosive effects of accelerated sea level rise and changes in storminess associated with global climate change.
Tidal‐induced net transport effects on the oxygen distribution in the thermosphere
Authors: Jones M. , Forbes J. M. , Hagan M. E.
Published: July 2014

Through a series of numerical experiments performed with the National Center for Atmospheric Research Thermosphere‐Ionosphere‐Mesosphere‐Electrodynamics General Circulation Model, we evaluate a new mechanism by which the dissipation of vertically propagating tides acts to change the O distribution in the thermosphere. Jones et al. (2014) proposed that the tides induced a net transport of constituents themselves, in addition to the transport provided by the mean circulation induced by the dissipation of tides. Through diagnosis of the continuity equation for [O], our results show that the net meridional and vertical transport of O induced by the tides appreciably contributes to [O] changes in the lower thermosphere. Combined with recombination, these transport mechanisms drive a net reduction in [O] of ∼25% that is transmitted to higher altitudes by molecular diffusion. The migrating diurnal tide appears to be the main driver of the [O] variations during September.
Drift‐scan imaging of traveling ionospheric disturbances with the Very Large Array
Authors: Helmboldt J. F.
Published: July 2014

This paper describes a method to use high‐precision specification of traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) from a relatively compact array of sensors to yield high‐resolution images of TID substructure. In this case, the array is the Very Large Array (VLA) radio telescope in New Mexico. The technique begins with a combined temporal and spatial spectral analysis that boils the TID down to its basic components, namely, the amplitude and horizontal wavelength and velocity vector. The last of these is used with the known apparent motion of the observed cosmic source to recompute the horizontal positions of the ionospheric pierce points in the frame of the TID. The data are then binned within this TID reference plane and averaged to make an image. The method is applied to three distinct TIDs detected and characterized to high precision (≲10−3 total electron content unit (1 TECU = 1016 el m−2)) using VLA observations of cosmic sources below 1 GHz.
Near‐surface temperature gradient in a coastal upwelling regime
Authors: Maske H. , Ochoa J. , Almeda‐Jauregui C. O. , Ruiz‐de la Torre M. C. , Cruz‐López R. , Villegas‐Mendoza J. R.
Published: July 2014

In oceanography, a near homogeneous mixed layer extending from the surface to a seasonal thermocline is a common conceptual basis in physics, chemistry, and biology. In a coastal upwelling region 3 km off the coast in the Mexican Pacific, we measured vertical density gradients with a free‐rising CTD and temperature gradients with thermographs at 1, 3, and 5 m depths logging every 5 min during more than a year. No significant salinity gradient was observed down to 10 m depth, and the CTD temperature and density gradients showed no pronounced discontinuity that would suggest a near‐surface mixed layer. Thermographs generally logged decreasing temperature with depth with gradients higher than 0.2 K m−1 more than half of the time in the summer between 1 and 3 m, 3 and 5 m and in the winter between 1 and 3 m. Some negative temperature gradients were present and gradients were generally highly variable in time with high peaks lasting fractions of hours to hours. These temporal changes were too rapid to be explained by local heating or cooling. The pattern of positive and negative peaks might be explained by vertical stacks of water layers of different temperatures and different horizontal drift vectors. The observed near‐surface gradient has implications for turbulent wind energy transfer, vertical exchange of dissolved and particulate water constituents, the interpretation of remotely sensed SST, and horizontal wind‐induced transport.
Diagnostic whole genome sequencing and split‐read mapping for nucleotide resolution breakpoint identification in CNTNAP2 deficiency syndrome
Authors: Watson Christopher M. , Crinnion Laura A. , Tzika Antigoni , Mills Alison , Coates Andrea , Pendlebury Maria , Hewitt Sarah , Harrison Sally M. , Daly Catherine , Roberts Paul , Carr Ian M. , Sheridan Eamonn G. , Bonthron David T.
Published: July 2014

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has the potential to report on all types of genetic abnormality, thus converging diagnostic testing on a single methodology. Although WGS at sufficient depth for robust detection of point mutations is still some way from being affordable for diagnostic purposes, low‐coverage WGS is already an excellent method for detecting copy number variants (“CNVseq”). We report on a family in which individuals presented with a presumed autosomal recessive syndrome of severe intellectual disability and epilepsy. Array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) analysis had revealed a homozygous deletion apparently lying within intron 3 of CNTNAP2. Since this was too small for confirmation by FISH, CNVseq was used, refining the extent of this mutation to approximately 76.8 kb, encompassing CNTNAP2 exon 3 (an out‐of‐frame deletion). To characterize the precise breakpoints and provide a rapid molecular diagnostic test, we resequenced the CNVseq library at medium coverage and performed split read mapping. This yielded information for a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, used for cascade screening and/or prenatal diagnosis in this family. This example demonstrates a rapid, low‐cost approach to converting molecular cytogenetic findings into robust PCR‐based tests. © 2014 The Authors. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Information practices of urban newcomers: An analysis of habits and wandering
Authors: Lingel Jessa
Published: July 2014

This paper reviews information practices used by transnational migrants to become familiar with new urban surroundings. Drawing on interviews with 26 participants, all of whom had moved to New York City in the past 2 years, I analyze the interrelatedness of people, city space, and technology. By rooting my analysis in the experiences of transnational newcomers to New York, my investigation is directed both at library and information science (LIS) scholarship in transnational experience and urban informatics as an area of study. The findings section first addresses participants' practices for becoming familiar with their surroundings as embedded in everyday routines using Bergson's (1911) construct of habits as a means of organizing stimulus. I then develop an analysis of wandering, which emerged as an information practice used by participants to become familiar with their neighborhoods. Building on these themes, I suggest implications for human information behavior theory, arguing that LIS scholars should articulate more clearly and across a wider range of disciplines the concepts of mobile and ubiquitous technologies.
Oil extraction from algae: A comparative approach
Authors: Valizadeh Derakhshan Mehrab , Nasernejad Bahram , Abbaspour‐Aghdam Farzin , Hamidi Mohammad
Published: July 2014

In this article, various methods including soxhlet, Bligh & Dyer (B&D), and ultrasonic‐assisted B&D were investigated for the extraction of lipid from algal species Chlorella vulgaris. Relative polarity/water content and impolar per polar ratios of solvents were considered to optimize the relative proportions of each triplicate agent by applying the response surface method (RSM). It was found that for soxhlet, hexane–methanol (54–46%, respectively) with total lipid extraction of 14.65% and chloroform–methanol (54–46%, respectively) with the extraction of 19.87% lipid were the best set of triplicate where further addition of acetone to the first group and ethanol to the second group did not contributed to further extraction. In B&D, however, chloroform–methanol–water (50%–35%–15%, respectively) reached the all‐time maximum of 24%. Osmotic shock as well as ultrasonication contributed to 3.52% of further extraction, which is considered to promote the total yield up to almost 15%. From the growth data and fatty acid analysis, the applied method was assessed to be appropriate for biodiesel production with regard to selectivity and extraction yield.
The cytotoxicity and cellular stress by temperature‐fabricated polyshaped gold nanoparticles using marine macroalgae, Padina gymnospora
Authors: Singh Manoj , Saurav Kumar , Majouga Alexander , Kumari Mamta , Kumar Manish , Manikandan S. , Kumaraguru A.K.
Published: July 2014

Bioreduction of metal ions for the synthesis of stable nanoparticles (NPs) in physiological environment has been a great challenge in the field of nanotechnology and its application. In the present study, well‐defined biofunctionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were developed following a biomimetic approach for an enhanced anticancer activity. The fucoxanthins‐capped crystalline AuNPs showed a particle size of 14 nm. The temperature‐mediated biosynthesized NPs were characterized by UV–vis, dynamic light scattering, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The cytotoxicity of the NPs was analyzed on liver (HepG2) and lung (A549) cancerous cells. The 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay infers that the biofunctionalized polyshaped AuNPs synthesized with an aqueous macroalgae extract showed a satisfactory anticancer effect on the cell lines, as evaluated by changes in cell morphology, cell viability, and metabolic activity. An altered cellular function and the morphology of cancer cell lines suggest a potential for in vivo application of AuNPs and the need to understand the interactions between nanomaterials, biomolecules, and cellular components. With continued improvements, these NPs may prove to be potential drug delivery vehicles for cancer therapy.
Insight into yeast: A study model of lipid metabolism and terpenoid biosynthesis
Authors: Hu Cheng , Lu Wenyu
Published: July 2014

With the development of transcriptomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and mathematical modeling, yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is recently considered as a model studying strain by biologists who try to reveal the mystery of microorganic metabolism or develop heterologous pharmaceutical and economic products. Among S. cerevisiae metabolic research, lipid metabolism always attracts great interest because of its dominant role in cell physiology. Related researchers have developed multiple functions from cell membrane component such as adjustment to changing environment and impact on protein folding. Nowadays, many common human diseases such as diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's disease, obesity, and atherosclerosis are related to lipid metabolism, which makes the study of lipids a desperate need. In addition to lipid metabolism, the study of the native mevalonic acid (MVA) pathway in S. cerevisiae has increased exponentially because of its huge potential to produce economically important products terpenoids. With the progress of technology in gene engineering and metabolic engineering, more and more biosynthetic pathways will be developed and put into industrial application.
Cancer incidence patterns among children and adolescents in Taiwan from 1995 to 2009: A population‐based study
Authors: Hung Giun‐Yi , Horng Jiun‐Lin , Lee Yu‐Sheng , Yen Hsiu‐Ju , Chen Chao‐Chun , Lee Chih‐Ying
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND

Currently, little information is available on childhood cancer incidence rates in Eastern Asia. The objective of this study was to report the first population‐based cancer surveillance of children and adolescents in Taiwan.

METHODS

Data from the Taiwan Cancer Registry were examined for cancer frequencies and incidence rates among individuals ages birth to 19 years from 1995 to 2009. Types of cancers were grouped according to the International Classification of Childhood Cancer. Rates were compared by sex and age. For further comparisons with other countries, rates were age standardized to the 2000 world standard population in 5‐year age groups. Trends in incidence rates also were evaluated.

RESULTS

In total, 12,315 individuals were diagnosed with childhood cancers, for an age‐standardized incidence rate (ASR) of 132.1 per million person‐years from 1995 to 2009. The male‐to‐female incidence rate ratio was 1.19. Overall, leukemias were the most common cancer (ASR, 39.1 per million person‐years), followed by central nervous system neoplasms (15.8 per million person‐years), and lymphomas (15.3 per million person‐years). During the 15‐year study period, the incidence rates increased by 1% annually. Compared with other countries, the rate of hepatic tumors was 2 times greater in Taiwan. The rate of germ cell neoplasms in Taiwan was similar to that in the United States and was 1.3 to 1.9 times greater compared with Canada, Brazil, Israel, and Japan.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the current data, the observed increase in overall incidence rates was attributable only marginally to improvements in case ascertainment and diagnostic procedures. The high rates of malignant hepatic tumors and germ cell neoplasms in Taiwan suggest variations in the background risk factors. Cancer 2014;120:3545–3553. © 2014 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society.