bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Representações e práticas empresariais sobre sustentabilidade, o caso do plástico verde
Authors: Wolffenbüttel Rodrigo Foresta
Published: June 2019

A ascensão de valores sociais relacionados aos problemas ambientais suscita questões sobre suasimplicações na dinâmica econômica e a sua capacidade de configurar um novo paradigma econômicoda sustentabilidade. O presente artigo versa sobre os processos de construção e legitimação doscritérios que dão sentido à noção de sustentabilidade no interior do contexto empresarial. Talabordagem ocorre por meio de investigação sobre as recentes transformações nas representações epráticas empresariais vinculadas a sustentabilidade, a partir do crescente conjunto de pressões sociaisque ampliaram os riscos de contestabilidade sobre as condutas e reputações das empresas. A ênfase doestudo repousa sobre a dinâmica de influência mútua entre mercados, sociedade e natureza, embasadaem estudos e teorias da sociologia econômica. O foco empírico da discussão direciona-se sobre astransformações promovidas por empresas que aderiam ao plástico verde, um plástico que possui asmesmas propriedades físicas do plástico convencional, porém é derivado de uma matéria-prima nãofóssil (etanol). Para apreender estas representações empresariais de sustentabilidade, foram realizadasentrevistas com representantes das empresas selecionadas e analisados os conteúdos de sentidomobilizados a luz do contexto de mercado e do surgimento de novas pressões sociais.
The Daughters Debt: How Black Spirituality and Politics are Transforming the Televisual Landscape
Authors: Luckett Josslyn
Published: June 2019

The spectrum of black women's spirituality in television has become nearly as diverse as the portraits of Afro-Atlantic spiritual practices that became central to key literary works of black feminist authors of the 1980s, such as Toni Cade Bambara, Paule Marshall, Toni Morrison, and Alice Walker. While many are the spiritual and televisual daughters of the authors mentioned above, this essay argues that the appearance of this wider range of black women's spirituality and activism in episodic television owes its greatest debt to two films from the 1990s, Julie Dash's, Daughters of the Dust (1991) and Kasi Lemmons’ Eve's Bayou (1997). I focus here on two shows which were themselves created by Black women feature film directors, Shots Fired (Gina Prince Bythewood with Reggie Rock Bythewood) and Queen Sugar (Ava DuVernay). I examine how characters like Pastor Janae (from Shots) and Nova Bordelon (from Sugar) use their spiritual practices in service of social justice, family, and community healing in ways that connect them to the women of Dash and Lemmons’ earlier films.
Implementación de estrategias pedagógicas constructivistas mediadas por las herramientas Web 2.0 para el fortalecimiento de la comprensión teórica en los contenidos conceptuales de las ciencias naturales y la educación ambiental
Authors: Tovar Vergara Emerson Leonardo
Published: June 2019

La investigación tiene como objetivo implementar estrategias pedagógicas constructivistas mediadas por las herramientas Web 2.0 para el fortalecimiento de la comprensión teórica en los contenidos conceptuales de la asignatura de ciencias naturales y la educación ambiental, en los estudiantes del grado octavo del I.E. Técnico Politécnico, Bucaramanga. Las estrategias pedagógicas se presentaron a través de cuatro unidades temáticas sobre las Células, en ella se realizaron talleres, mapas mentales, cuadros sinópticos, sopas de letras entre otras actividades que se desarrollarán en el proyecto de aula dando solución a las falencias en los estudiantes. Los conceptos que permitieron comprender y argumentar el proceso investigativo fueron el constructivismo, la metodología de la enseñanza y aprendizaje y el aprendizaje significativo. La población objeto de estudio estuvo conformada por 145 estudiantes perteneciente a la I.E. Técnico Politécnico, de ella se extrajo una muestra intencional de 35 estudiantes que conforman el grado de octavo de la misma institución educativa. De aquí que la metodología que se llevó a cabo consistió en la investigación acción, con diseño no experimental de tipo descriptivo. Las técnicas de recolección de datos fueron el análisis documental, la observación, y las rúbricas de evaluación, los cuales evidenciaron los resultados que se centraron en el fortalecimiento de la comprensión teórica a través de la implementación de estrategias pedagógicas constructivista para la enseñanza y aprendizaje en los contenidos conceptuales en el área de ciencias naturales y educación ambiental, las cuales facilitaron ampliar la construcción de aprendizajes significativos.
Effects of aging in oak barrels on the trans-resveratrol and anthocyanin concentration of red wines from Hungary
Authors: Guld Zs. , Rácz A. , Tima H. , Kállay M. , Sárdy D. Nyitrainé
Published: June 2019

Polyphenol compounds in grapes and wines are of paramount importance: they have a key role in determining wine quality, and also the beneficial health effects of moderate red wine consumption are well-known. The polyphenol concentration of wines is determined mostly by: a) their concentration in the grapes and b) the production technology, particularly the time and type of aging. Our goal was to determine the trans-resveratrol and anthocyanin contents of Hungarian red wines under different manufacturing conditions, by monitoring the 24-month aging process – using barrique and oak barrels – with semi-annual sampling, without considering vintage. We have chosen to determine polyphenol components that could originate from either the grapes, or be produced during the wooden barrel aging. Both the aging time and the wine variety had non-negligible effects on the changes in the concentrations of the studied components, whereas the wooden barrel type had not.
Acoustic characteristics of disguised speech
Authors: Smith Allan B. , Mason Nealy , Browne Molly E. , Sullivan Brendan
Published: June 2019

A group of 13 participants were recorded in two conditions: 1) speaking normally and 2) altering speech to conceal their identity (i.e., disguised speech). Participants were not instructed how to disguise their speech because we were interested in which changes they would choose. A group of inexperienced listeners were largely inaccurate in matching participants’ disguised speech to their normal speech. The largest changes between normal and disguised speech were in speaking rate, the first formant, fundamental frequency, and intensity. When listeners made correct matches, the pairs were similar in speaking rate and fundamental frequency (F0), as shown by significant correlations. Incorrectly matched pairs were not significantly correlated, suggesting that listeners were not making good use of acoustic cues during those decisions. Overall, the third formant (F3) and speaking rate appeared to be useful acoustic indicators of identity when matching normal and disguised speech samples. Of those two variables, F3 was apparently underutilised by listeners. The implications for what spontaneous speakers do to disguise their speech and what naïve listeners attend to when identifying disguised voice are discussed.
A STUDY ON POWER OUTPUT OF HORIZONTAL-AXIS WIND TURBINES UNDER RAIN
Authors: Anh Nguyen Tuan , Duc Nguyen Huu
Published: June 2019

The power of the wind turbine are significantly affected by the air conditions of the operating environment. Rain is a widespread phenomenon in many parts of the world especially in Vietnam, so exploring its effect on the power of wind turbines will provide valuable insights into the design of a new wind tower. In this paper, a method and a model is developed to estimate the effect of precipitation by simulating the actual physical processes of the rain drops forming on the surface of the blades of horizontal-axis wind turbines (HAWT), thereby determining optimal wetness, then power and performance respectively. Consequently, it makes a contribution to operation and control strategies for horizontal-axis wind turbines.
TECHNOLOGY OF MUSHROOM CULTIVATION
Authors: Ho Quyen Bao Thuy , Suzuki Akira
Published: June 2019

Mushroom cultivation has been developed by two ways, i. e., one based on cultivation by wood-log and another based on cultivation by non-wood-log. Non-wood-log cultivation would be categorized into two aspects. Mushroom cultivation under non-aseptic condition, i. e., one characterized by the processes of fermentation (composting) and casing, and another characterized by using sterilized media followed by cultivation process associated with strict control of environmental factors such as light, temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration.
Low back pain and risk factors during the third infancy
Authors: Santos Márcio Antônio dos , Lunkes Luciana Crepaldi , Ribeiro Alex de Oliveira , Souza Alessandra de Castro
Published: June 2019

Abstract Introduction: Low back pain is characterized as a pain in the area between the 12th rib and the low gluteal fold. This pain can affect different ages. During the growth peak, the postural control system is rearranged; therefore, the maintenance and fixation of these structures is crucial for the performance of daily activities. Thus, the prevalence of low back pain and their risk factors must be investigated, so that effective preventive measures against low back pain may be taken. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of low back pain and the risks associated to it during the third infancy, that is, children aged between 6 and 12 years old. Method: A transversal and observational study with 150 children of both genders, students from private institutions of Lavras, Minas Gerais, in 2016. Questionnaires were applied in order to understand the characteristics of the sample (age, gender, school year, ethnic group, parents’ educational level, means of transportation to go to school and situations that caused or aggravated low back pain) and their low back pain (in the last 12 months). Results: The rate of occurrence of low back pain in the senior year of school was 20%. According to the chi-squared, “school year” and “ethnic group” (pardos) were the variables associated to low back pain. Sitting, mainly in front of the computer, was reported to be the main cause of the symptoms. Conclusion: Low back pain presented a prevalence of 20% with no significant difference between genders, but there was an association of low back pain and variables related to the school year and the ethnic group.
The association between physical activity, sedentary behavior and the occurrence of falls in asymptomatic adults over 40 years old
Authors: Oliveira Ana Esther Pereira de , Ostolin Thatiane Lopes Valentim Di Paschoale , Vieira Wesley de Oliveira , Arantes Rodolfo Leite , Gagliardi Antônio Ricardo de Toledo , Sperandio Evandro Fornias , Dourado Victor Zuniga
Published: June 2019

Abstract Introduction: Sedentary behavior (SB) has been described as an independent risk factor for health, regardless of the recommended amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). However, SB and MVPA as predictors of falls have been poorly investigated. Objective: To compare the associations between SB and MVPA and the occurrence of falls in middle-aged and older adults. Method: The participants wore a triaxial accelerometer over the dominant hip for seven days to measure SB and MVPA. The occurrence of falls and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed by self-report. Isokinetic peak torque (PT) of knee extension, peak oxygen uptake (V’O2) in a ramp treadmill protocol, and lean (LBM) body mass and body fat (BFM) (bioelectrical impedance) were also assessed. The critical roles of SB and MVPA on the occurrence of falls were compared by multiple logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, LBM, peak V’O2, and PT of knee extension. Results: 379 participants were evaluated, aged 40-80 years. Forty-eight participants reported at least one fall in the previous 12 months (14.5%). Fallers presented lower SB and higher MVPA. They were predominantly women and older adults with lower physical fitness. After multivariate analysis, MVPA, but not SB, was selected as an independent predictor of falls, increasing the odds ratio of having a fall (1.184, 95% confidence interval, 1.016 - 1.378). Conclusion: Episodes of falls in predominantly middle-aged and women subjects were associated with a higher amount of MVPA, not the opposite, indicating an adverse effect of MVPA in these subjects.
A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Regorafenib and TAS-102 in Refractory Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sonbol Mohamad Bassam , Benkhadra Raed , Wang Zhen , Firwana Belal , Walden Daniel J. , Mody Kabir , Hubbard Joleen M. , Murad M. Hassan , Ahn Daniel H. , Bekaii-Saab Tanios
Published: June 2019

Background

Regorafenib at different dosing strategies and TAS-102 are treatment options for refractory metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness evidence supporting these different strategies.

Materials and Methods

We searched different databases for randomized controlled trials evaluating TAS-102 or regorafenib in patients with refractory mCRC who failed prior oxaliplatin, irinotecan, and fluoropyrimidine. Outcomes of interest included overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The overall effect was pooled using the DerSimonian random effects model. We conducted network meta-analysis based on White's multivariate meta-regression to pool evidence from direct and indirect comparisons.

Results

Six trials at low risk of bias (2,445 patients) were included. Direct comparisons showed that Rego 160 and TAS-102 as monotherapy were superior to best-supportive care (BSC) in terms of PFS (Rego 160: hazard ratio [HR], 0.4; 95% confidence ratio [CI], 0.26–0.63; TAS-102: HR, 0.46 CI, 0.40–0.52) and OS (Rego 160: HR, 0.67; CI, 0.48–0.93; TAS-102: HR, 0.67; CI, 0.57–0.80). Network analysis showed no statistically difference in PFS or OS between Rego 160 and TAS-102. Rego 80+ was superior to BSC in terms of OS (HR, 0.44; CI, 0.23–0.84) and PFS (HR, 0.37; CI, 0.21–0.66). Rego 80+ was associated with statistically nonsignificant improvement in OS and PFS compared with TAS-102 and Rego 160.

Conclusion

Regorafenib 160 and TAS-102 appear to have similar efficacy. Rego 80+ is shown to be superior to BSC. A trend for improved OS was observed with Rego 80+ versus Rego 160 or TAS 102.

Implications for Practice

Regorafenib at a dose of 160 mg and TAS-102 appear to have similar efficacy in patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer. Regorafenib with a dose escalation strategy is superior to best-supportive care. Given its tolerability and the observed trend in survival benefit compared with regorafenib 160, dose escalation strategy of regorafenib (80+) may be the preferred option in this setting.
Limites e possibilidades da Política de Desenvolvimento Territorial: uma análise a partir do Território Central da Cidadania do RS
Authors: Balem Tatiana Aparecida , Silva Gustavo Pinto da , Froehlich José Marcos
Published: June 2019

O Programa Territórios da Cidadania, criado em 2008 em substituição ao Programa Territórios Rurais de 2003, destaca-se como a política de desenvolvimento territorial brasileira. Este trabalho tem por objetivo, a partir da análise do Território da Cidadania Central do Rio Grande do Sul, identificar se os limites e as possibilidades da implantação deste território são oriundos da política pública ou das particularidades da própria região. Foram delimitadas quatro chaves analíticas para análise, as quais buscam discutir como a política vem sendo implantada e como a noção de desenvolvimento territorial vem sendo apropriada pela sociedade. Além disso, busca-se apresentar os principais limites para o desenvolvimento da política territorial. Mesmo que o território se mostre um importante espaço de discussão e de mobilização da região, ainda se mostra insuficiente para dar conta do desenvolvimento territorial, já que as ações políticas e de desenvolvimento para o espaço circunscrito no mesmo não convergem totalmente.
A Indicação de Procedência como instrumento de diferenciação: o caso do Doce de Pelotas
Authors: Peralta Patricia Pereira , Morgado Mônica Christina Rodrigues , Silva Elizabeth Ferreira da , Teruya Dirceu Yoshikazu
Published: June 2019

As atividades agroindustriais apresentam sua competitividade de produtos baseadas na diminuição de custos e na necessidade de diferenciação. Um dos instrumentos de diferenciação de produtos é a Indicação Geográfica, que possibilita o titular desse registro, a partir de uma designação geográfica, decorrente da reputação e da fama de um determinado produto manufaturado nessa região. Os produtores de doces na Região de Pelotas se organizaram e obtiveram o registro de Indicação de Geográfica no Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial, mas esses produtores estão aperfeiçoando o processo de uso desse instrumento como vantagem competitiva.
Entre trajetórias e estratégias de vida: a importância do Programa Nacional de Crédito Fundiário no acesso à terra pela juventude rural no Estado do Espírito Santo
Authors: Rodriguez Celia Jaqueline Sanz , Conterato Marcelo Antonio
Published: June 2019

Qual a importância e o significado que assume a terra entre os jovens beneficiários do Programa Nacional de Crédito Fundiário – PNCF? Em termos gerais, é essa a pergunta que este paper procura responder ao entrevistar os jovens rurais que acessaram o PNCF no Estado do Espírito Santo. As opções teóricas adotadas neste artigo e as narrativas dos jovens entrevistados permitiu perceber que diferentes trajetórias e condições de vida orientam e dão diferentes significados à própria condição de acesso de acesso à terra e possibilidades de permanência no campo. Por outro lado, e perpassado pelos significados atribuídos à condição de posse e propriedade da terra, o acesso ao PNCF se enquadra enquanto estratégias de escolha e adaptação ou de reação e necessidade. Para a realização da pesquisa, foram entrevistadas sete associações de jovens rurais, em dois municípios com maior número de projetos dentro do selo Nossa Primeira Terra – NPT do PNCF, no Estado do Espírito Santo. As entrevistas permitiram concluir que o acesso à terra representa a possibilidade dos jovens permanecerem no campo.
Educação do Campo no Brasil – a experiência da Escola Família Agrícola de Santa Cruz do Sul - EFASC
Authors: Costa João Paulo Reis , Etges Virgínia Elisabeta
Published: June 2019

Este artigo apresenta uma reflexão sobre a Educação do Campo no contexto da realidade brasileira, destacando o significado das Escolas Família Agrícola - EFAs. Com base na experiência da EFASC, referenciada na Pedagogia da Alternância, com a participação das famílias e suas comunidades, alternada com a formação escolar construída no ambiente escolar, as EFAs buscam promover a formação integral do jovem agricultor em técnico agrícola. Nesse processo educativo destaca-se a participação das famílias e instituições regionais como parceiros fundamentais para o desenvolvimento e formação dos estudantes, possibilitando a estes a permanência no campo por opção.
Detection of Synergistes jonesii and genetic variants in ruminants from different geographical locations
Authors: McSweeney Chris S. , Padmanabha Jagadish , Halliday Michael J. , Hubbard Ben , Dierens Leanne , Denman Stuart E. , Shelton H. Max
Published: June 2019

Keynote paper presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.Leucaena leucocephala is a nutritionally rich forage tree legume that contains a toxic non-protein amino acid, mimosine, from which other toxic compounds 3,4-dihydroxypyridone (3,4-DHP) and 2,3-DHP are formed in the rumen. The rumen bacterium Synergistes jonesii is able to degrade these DHP isomers into non-toxic end products. In this study we developed new PCR-based assays to improve the specificity and sensitivity of detection of S. jonesii in the rumen. Using these new assays in a survey of ruminants from different countries showed S. jonesii appeared to be ubiquitous rather than isolated geographically. The bacterium was present as a minor population (<106 cells/mL) in the rumen and was usually comprised of several genetic variants of the species. Although the indigenous nature of S. jonesii could imply animals are protected from toxicity, the relative abundance of the bacterium, potential variation in DHP degrading ability of genetic variants of the species, and amount of leucaena in the diet may determine the ability of the resident population in the rumen to protect the animal from toxicity.
Mimosine concentration in Leucaena leucocephala under various environmental conditions
Authors: Honda Michael D.H. , Borthakur Dulal
Published: June 2019

Keynote paper presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.Leucaena leucocephala (leucaena) is a multipurpose tropical tree-legume that is highly resistant to many biotic and abiotic stresses. Leucaena is used primarily as an animal fodder owing to its protein-rich foliage. However, leucaena foliage also contains mimosine, a toxic non-protein amino acid that can cause alopecia, goiter and other thyroid problems, infertility, and fetal death. Considering its toxicity and abundance in leucaena, it is important to quantify the mimosine concentrations in leucaena under different environmental conditions. Mimosine was extracted from various types of leucaena tissue exposed to a range of environmental conditions and then quantified by HPLC. The mimosine concentrations in leucaena treated with NaCl increased after 6 days of treatment and remained relatively high when treatment continued for 18 days. Interestingly, leucaena exposed to complete darkness for up to 5 days had a higher mimosine concentration than control plants exposed to normal light/dark photoperiods. On the other hand, drying leucaena leaflets or macerating them in an alkaline buffer significantly lowered their mimosine concentration. Mature leaflets that had fallen off the plant and dried out also contained significantly less mimosine than fresh leaflets. The results of this study indicate that mimosine concentrations in leucaena are affected by environmental conditions and this knowledge can assist in managing to prevent toxicity.
New Grounds of Criminal Liability for Inducement to Suicide and Other Life-Threatening Behavior
Authors: Sharapov Roman , Smakhtin Evgeniy
Published: June 2019

The paper analyzes the criminal policy and legal evaluation of inducement to suicide and other life-threatening behavior in view of the changes in criminal legislation in June 2017. The authors show that the key social condition for introducing new grounds for criminal liability for inducement to suicide and other life-threatening behavior is the wide-spread cases of inducement of children and teenagers to suicidal and other life-threatening behavior via the Internet. The authors also present criminal legal characteristics of the differentiation between homicide by taking your own life and inducement to (counseling, aiding) suicide, and the definition of crimes in cases of factual error. They recommend classifying the actions under Art. 110-110.2 of the Criminal Code if the intent of the offender includes the fact that a person will deliberately and understandingly take his/her life. In contrast, the involvement of a person into auto-aggressive behavior connected with causing their own death by counseling such an act or any other inducement to it when the offender is aware that, due to age or psychological disorder, the victims do not understand the character and meaning of the actions carried out with them should be classified as a murder. The concept of the victims helplessness in the crimes of inducement to suicide should be interpreted in a restrictive way; such victims should be understood as being physically but not psychologically helpless. Criminal liability for the propaganda of auto-aggressive behavior (excepting suicidal behavior), connected with self-harm should be regulated under Part 3, Art. 239 of the Criminal Code.
The Right to Strike and Replacement Labour: South African Practice Viewed from an International Law Perspective
Authors: Van Eck Stefan , Kujinga Tungamirai
Published: June 2019

South Africa is a member of the International Labour Organisation (hereafter the ILO), an establishment that sets international labour law standards through its conventions, recommendations and expert supervisory committees. Also, South African courts have an obligation to interpret labour provisions in accordance with international law and customs. This paper examines whether by way of the Labour Relations Act of 1995 (hereafter the LRA) the current regulation of both the right to strike and the use of replacement labour during strikes falls within the ambits of internationally and constitutionally acceptable labour norms.
Strike action constitutes a temporary and concerted withdrawal of work. On the other hand, replacement labour maintains production and undermines the effect of the withdrawal of labour. Consequently, the ILO views the appointment of strike-breakers during legal strikes in non-essential services as a violation of the right to organise and collective bargaining, and in a number of countries replacement labour is prohibited. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 enshrines every worker's right to strike and the LRA gives effect to this right. However, the foundation of this right is ostensibly brought into question by the LRA in as far as it permits employers to make use of replacement labour during strike action. This article investigates whether replacement labour undermines the right to strike in South Africa and considers to what extent labour legislation may be misaligned with international norms. In conclusion the research makes findings and proposes alternatives that may be considered to resolve this seemingly skewed situation.
The Duty to Produce One’s Firearm for Inspection in Terms of the Firearms Control Act: The Right to Silence under Siege?
Authors: Msaule Phindile Raymond
Published: June 2019

The right of the arrested and accused persons to remain silent at pre-trial and during their trial are significant to ensuring a fair trial. The purpose of the right to remain silent is to ensure that the state bears the duty to prove the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt. In essence, the right serves to dissuade the state from engaging in any manner or form of coercing the accused person to assist the state in meeting its case, whether during pre-trial or during trial. An individual who is accused of committing an offence must not through his or her words or deeds assist the state in satisfying its burden of proof. The Firearm Control Act 20 of 2000 (the Act) seems to dilute these rights. The Act empowers the police official to request an owner of a legal firearm to produce it within seven days of the request at a threat of a criminal sanction. At the time the request is made the individual has been neither arrested for nor accused of a criminal offence. However, on the failure to produce the firearm on demand by a police official the individual may be charged with a criminal offence and evidence that has been obtained in terms of the Act would be admissible at the subsequent trial. This is despite the fact that at the time the request to produce a firearm is made the individual does not have a choice but to comply with the request lest he or she be charged with an offence under the Act. The purpose of this contribution is to investigate whether the individual to whom a request to produce a firearm has been made is entitled to the right to remain silent entrenched in section 35 of the Constitution, and whether the limitation of this right by the Act passes constitutional muster.
The Search and Seizure of Digital Evidence by Forensic Investigators in South Africa
Authors: Nortje Jacobus Gerhardus , Myburgh Daniel Christoffel
Published: June 2019

The discipline of digital forensics requires a combination of skills, qualifications and knowledge in the area of forensic investigation, legal aspects and information technology. The uniqueness of digital evidence makes the adoption of traditional legal approaches problematic.

Information technology terminology is currently used interchangeably without any regard to being unambiguous and consistent in relation to legal texts. Many of the information technology terms or concepts have not yet achieved legal recognition.

The recognition and standardisation of terminology within a legal context are of the utmost importance to ensure that miscommunication does not occur.

To provide clarity or guidance on some of the terms and concepts applicable to digital forensics and for the search and seizure of digital evidence, some of the concepts and terms are reviewed and discussed, using the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 as a point of departure.

Digital evidence is often collected incorrectly and analysed ineffectively or simply overlooked due to the complexities that digital evidence poses to forensic investigators. As with any forensic science, specific regulations, guidelines, principles or procedures should be followed to meet the objectives of investigations and to ensure the accuracy and acceptance of findings. These regulations, guidelines, principles or procedures are discussed within the context of digital forensics: what processes should be followed and how these processes ensure the acceptability of digital evidence. These processes include international principles and standards such as those of the Association of Chiefs of Police Officers and the International Organisation of Standardisation. A summary is also provided of the most influential or best-recognised international (IOS) standards on digital forensics.

It is concluded that the originality, reliability, integrity and admissibility of digital evidence should be maintained as follows:

Data should not be changed or altered.

Original evidence should not be directly examined.

Forensically sound duplicates should be created.

Digital forensic analyses should be performed by competent persons.

Digital forensic analyses should adhere to relevant local legal requirements.

Audit trails should exist consisting of all required documents and actions.

The chain of custody should be protected.

Processes and procedures should be proper, while recognised and accepted by the industry.

If the ACPO (1997) principles and ISO/IEC 27043 and 27037 Standards are followed as a forensic framework, then digital forensic investigators should follow these standards as a legal framework.
Proselytising the Regulation of Religious Bodies in South Africa: Suppressing Religious Freedom?
Authors: Henrico Radley
Published: June 2019

In democratic pluralistic and secular societies, freedom of religion is a fundamental right to be enjoyed by all individuals and religious organisations. A unique feature of this human right is the extent to which it is premised on a personal belief. The latter can be "bizarre, illogical or irrational", but nevertheless deserving of protection in the interests of freedom of religion. However, when the expression of a religious belief or practice transgresses the civil or criminal law it must be dealt with in the relevant legislative framework to hold the transgressor liable. Measures taken by the state to regulate religious bodies in terms of a general supervisory council or umbrella body are an unreasonable and unjustifiable interference with freedom of religion, and hence unconstitutional. I am of the view that the right to freedom of religion depends for its constitutional validity – and viability – on there being no interference (or regulation) by the state except in instances as provided for in terms of relevant legislation.
A floating dome biogas digester: perceptions of energising a rural school in Maphephetheni, KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Sibisi NT , Green JM
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether biogas technology could provide a school with an acceptable, affordable, efficient and sustainable alternative energy resource, thereby providing opportunities for cost savings, income generation and greater opportunities for education. The school selected for this study was Myeka High School, situated in rural Maphephetheni village, KwaZuluNatal. The school was not connected to grid electricity and was using solar PV energy and LP gas to support its energy needs. A floating dome biogas system, which operated on human excreta and cow dung, was donated to the school to supplement the school’s energy needs. Data was collected using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Results revealed that the biogas was an acceptable source of energy because the school used the biogas for cooking and refrigeration. However, it was not affordable as savings on energy expenditure of the school could not offset the original cost of the biogas system unless a capital subsidy is applied. The long-term benefits on the educational environment cannot be underestimated. Biogas energy was found to be both efficient and sustainable, provided proper management was in place. In spite of this, findings indicated a lack of appreciation of how the system functioned by teachers and students; the need for more thorough and ongoing education of users before and after installation; the need for robust toilets and washbasins; and on the difficulties in getting the system fully operational in the limited time span for evaluation. Although income generation opportunities through biogas were not utilised at the school, there was an opportunity for income generation through biogas generation, provided there was encouragement, support and markets available.
Energy efficient lighting and energy management
Authors: Fritz WLO , Kahn MTE
Published: June 2019

Energy management and the application of energy consumption reduction methods is high on the priority list of South Africa’s electrical supply utility, Eskom. One of Eskom’s Demand Side Management (DSM) recovery plan steps was the establishment of a subsidy programme for energy auditing and energy efficient lighting. A need arose to implement new lighting designs and to improve existing lighting systems. These improved lighting systems are used as recommendations in Energy Audits to achieve lighting efficiency and energy consumption reduction. It also highlights and promotes cost effective designs and energy management. New and better lighting methods are developed and researched to increase returns, domestically and in industry. This also highlights the importance of energy consumption reduction. This paper also discusses an Energy Audit conducted at a school in Worcester by the Service Learning and Development (SLD) unit of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Electrical Engineering Department in Bellville. The SLD delivers a service to the community, to improve their standard of living and to provide training to electrical engineering students. The aim of the project was to recommend energy consumption reduction methods.
A review of electrical energy management techniques: supply and consumer side (industries)
Authors: Mohamed Afua , Khan Mohamed Tariq
Published: June 2019

A review of electrical energy management tech-niques on the supply side and demand side is pre-sented. The paper suggests that direct load control, interruptible load control, and time of use (TOU) are the main load management techniques used on the supply side (SS). The supply side authorities normally design these techniques and implement them on demand side consumers. Load manage-ment (LM) initiated on the demand side leads to valley filling and peak clipping. Power factor correc-tion (PFC) techniques have also been analysed and presented. It has been observed that many power utilities, especially in developing countries, have neither developed nor implemented DSM for their electrical energy management. This paper proposes that the existing PFC techniques should be re-eval-uated especially when loads are nonlinear. It also recommends automatic demand control methods to be used on the demand side in order to acquire optimal energy consumption. This would lead to improved reliability of the supply side and thereby reducing environmental degradation.
Measurement and verification of a lighting load reduction project through energy efficiency
Authors: Masopoga Idah , Van der Merwe Christo , Grobler L.J.
Published: June 2019

This paper will describe the methodology and pro-cedures that were followed to measure and verify the impact on the electricity use of a lighting load reduction project implemented at a gold mine. The lighting retrofit was concentrated on the 100 level and 100 incline of the gold mine. Since the lights were underground, it was operational for 24 hours each day. The proposed project activity aimed to reduce the electric demand of the lighting system by replacing the current types of lighting fixtures with more energy efficient units.The possibility existed to reduce the lighting load by 157 kW. These impacts needed to be assessed in order to verify the DSM impacts and savings for the client, the ESCO and Eskom. Pre-implementation metering was done in order to determine the oper-ational and installed capacity of the original lighting system. Together with the number of lights affected by this project activity and the 24-hour operational profile, this data defined the baseline electricity use of the project. The same metering techniques and layout have been used after implementation to determine the new installed and operational capac-ity of the new lighting system. This project achieved 99.36% of its contracted target of 157kW.
Determination of regional emission factors for the power sector in Southern Africa
Authors: Zhou Peter P. , Yamba Francis D. , Lloyd Philip , Nyahuma Lovemore , Mzezewa Cornelius , Kipondya Frederick , Keir John , Asamoah Joe , Simonsen Henry
Published: June 2019

The generation of power within Southern Africa is reviewed. A study is described in which the emission factors for CO2 and NOx were determined experimentally across a wide range of power stations and technologies, and compared to the IPCC default factors. It was found that the CO2 emission factors tended to be at the upper end of the IPCC default range, whereas the NOx emission factors were generally below the low end. The results from South Africa tend to dominate the regional picture at present, but this is likely to change in the near future, as Botswana has announced plans to introduce over 4 000 MWe of coal-fired power stations.
Good for people can be good for business: the convergence of opportunities for delivering basic energy to low-income households in developing countries
Authors: Balmer Marlett , Hancock David
Published: June 2019

Energy poverty affects more than 40% of the world’s population.  Fuels and appliances used by low-income groups have been of low-quality, expensive, non-durable and have posed serious health and safety risks to users.  Energy transition theories, most noteably the energy ladder model, have postulated a gradual but complete move away from traditional, mostly biomass energy sources towards modern energy sources. Evidence however, increasingly indicates that the process did not happen as anticipated.  This paper argues that energy transition from biomass fuels to full electricity use will not take place in SADC countries due to economic circumstances, increases in commercial fuel prices and the deficit in power generation capacity in the region.  It further argues that wood fuel, traditionally regarded as a lower order fuel, is actually a renewable energy source that can meet the energy needs of rural people sustainably, if managed correctly.  The paper suggests a re-evaluation of the value of wood fuel – from a low value fuel associated with poverty and degradation to a high value, renewable energy fuel, supplying much needed energy in a potentially sustainable manner.  The paper outlines a convergence of a number of external conditions and opportunities which may alter household energy supply, making it possible for households to benefit from high quality, small quantities of electricity for lighting and communication purposes and extremely high quality, affordable appliances utilising biomass energy sources to supply thermal energy requirements.
Life cycle inventories to assess value chains in the South African biofuels industry
Authors: Brent Alan , Sigamoney Rovani , Von Blottnitz Harro , Hietkamp Sibbele
Published: June 2019

The South African government ratified a new biofuels industrial strategy at the end of 2007. The feasibility study that forms the basis of the strategy highlights the potential environmental implications of such a strategy. However, at present there is no structured approach to evaluate the environmental profile of the scenarios within the strategy. This paper introduces life cycle inventories whereby the environmental profiles of biofuel value chains may be evaluated meaningfully. The scope of the paper focuses on the seed extraction biodiesel production scenarios of the strategy. The inventory analysis shows that the inputs and outputs of the farming unit process are sensitive to the type of crop and region of produce. Water usage is a highly variable parameter, which emphasises the importance of rainfall and irrigation to the overall burden of the biodiesel system on water resources. Crop yields may differ by a factor of two, which is a significant difference in terms of land and non-renewable energy resources requirements. The oil and meal/cake content of the seed proves to be the most important parameter that influences the initial unit processes of the value chains; almost all the inputs and outputs of the farming unit processes, for all the crops, range in the order of a factor of two due to this parameter. The uncertainties associated with the logistic system in the value chain also have major implications. Further, should there be no market offset for the meal/cake co-products, the waste treatment requirements would be highly uncertain. Very little uncertainties were detected in the biodiesel production unit process, although the energy efficiency, and sustainability, of the overall production system remains questionable. The paper identifies a number of limitations with inventory sets that need to be addressed through further research efforts to improve the environmental evaluations of a biofuel value chain in South Africa for policy-making purposes.
Quantitative RT-PCR using the TaqMan® Gene Expression Assays on StepOnePlus™ Real-Time PCR System v1
Authors: Rosenthal Lisa-Maria , Tong Giang , Schmitt Katharina
Published: June 2019

Quantitative RT-PCR using the TaqMan® Gene Expression Assays on StepOnePlus™ Real-Time PCR System
Bioinformatic analysis v1
Authors: Bevitori Rosangela , Sircar Sanchari , Neves de Mello Raquel , Cotia Togawa Roberto , Silva Oliveira Tiago , de Fátima Grossi de Sá Maria , Parekh Nita
Published: June 2019

Bioinformatics analysis The following analysis protocol describe Sequences processing and analysis section.
RNA re-precipitation protocol v1
Authors: Riccio Cristian
Published: June 2019

If the RNA you have extracted is not pure and contains some residual contamination, as shown by poor Nanodrop ratios, you can reprecipitate the RNA, wash it and re-dissolve it to purify it.
Optimal Control of the Separation Process with Flow Restrictions
Authors: Demidenko Nikolai D. , Kulagina Lyudmila V. , Nikiforov Aleksandr G.
Published: June 2019

Here we formulate the problem of optimal process control with distributed parameters, taking into account the constraints on the control and associated flows. The necessary optimality conditions are obtained. The analysis of the stationarity conditions is carried out and the method for constructing the domain of admissible controls is proposed. The developed optimization method is applied in the automation of industrial distillation plants for the sulfuric acid alkylation of isobutane with butylenes, ortho-xylene production, etc.
Formation of Particle Structure in Plasma Treatment of Granulated Powder Based on Titanium
Authors: Chesnokov Anton E. , Smirnov Аndrey V.
Published: June 2019

The paper presents the results of a study of the physico-chemical characteristics of powders obtained in thermal plasma during the treatment of a granular powder of two compositions: 1 – granules consisting of ultrafine titanium particles; 2 – granules of the composition of ultrafine titanium particles and 20 wt. % ultrafine of titanium nitride. The phase and granulometric composition is determined, the internal structure of the processed powder particles is studied
Efficacy of Levocetirizine, Prednisolone and their combination in the treatment of chronic urticaria: a comparative study
Authors: More Kanhaiah , Samskar B. , Simpson G. B.
Published: June 2019

Background: Urticaria results from many different stimuli and numerous factors like immunologic, non-immunologic, genetic and modulating factors which are involved in its pathogenesis and ultimately converge on mast cells and basophils to release mediators and produce urticarial lesions. This study is aimed to compare the therapeutic effectiveness of Levocetirizine (newer generation H1 blocker), prednisolone (glucocorticoid) and their combination in the treatment of chronic urticaria.Methods: Group I (34 patients received tab Levocetirizine alone 5mg daily for 15 days). Group II (33 patients received tab Prednisolone alone 20mg /day for initial 3 days and later dose was gradually tapered by 5mg /day every 3 days to 5mg/day with total duration of 12 days). Group III (33 patients received the combination of Levocetirizine and Prednisolone).Results: The Group -I patients average eosinophil count before and after treatment was 4±1.4 and 2.4±0.8 respectively, with an average difference of 1.7±1.3. In Group - II patients average eosinophil count before and after treatment was 4.0±1.1 and 2.5±0.3 respectively, with an average difference of 1.5±1.1. In the Group - III patients the average eosinophil count before and after treatment was 4.3±1.0 and 2.1±1.0 with an average difference of 2.2±1.3. In G-I (n=34).Conclusions: Statistical analysis of the present study showed that the combination of Levocetirizine and prednisolone therapy was significantly (P<0.05) greater than prednisolone alone therapy and improvement with Levocetirizine alone (79%) was almost similar to combination therapy (85%).