bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between HIV stage and psychomotor speed neurocognitive score at a Kenyan sub-county hospital
Authors: Kinuthia Rachael N. , Thigiti Joseph M. , Gakinya Benson N.
Published: August 2016

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is associated with cognitive impairment which affects psychomotor speed. Psychomotor slowing is a predictor of dementia and death in people living with HIV and AIDS. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between HIV disease stage and psychomotor speed neurocognitive score which will add to the body of knowledge required to manage patients with HIV and AIDS. Objective: To determine the relationship between psychomotor speed neurocognitive score and the HIV disease stage in adults at initiation of care. Setting: This study was conducted at Kangundo Sub-county hospital comprehensive care centre. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. All HIV seropositive patients aged 18 to 50 years recently initiated into care were studied. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect data. The World Health Organization (WHO) stage was used during data collection to classify study participants into asymptomatic and symptomatic groups. The grooved pegboard test was used to obtain psychomotor speed neurocognitive scores. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise data. Mann–Whitney U test, Spearman’s rho and multiple linear regression were employed in the analysis; p-value of 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The WHO stage did not have a significant effect on the psychomotor speed neurocognitive score (p ≥ 0.05). The CD4 count had a significant effect on psychomotor speed neurocognitive score (p = 0.001). Conclusions: There was a significant correlation between CD4 counts and psychomotor speed neurocognitive score. Efforts should be made to ensure that the CD4 counts of people living with HIV and AIDS do not continue to fall after initiation into care in order to preserve psychomotor function.
New family medicine residency training programme: Residents’ perspectives from the University of Botswana
Authors: Mbuka Deogratias O. , Tshitenge Stephane , Setlhare Vincent , Tsima Billy , Adewale Ganiyu , Parsons Luise
Published: August 2016

Background: Family Medicine (FM) training is new in Botswana. No previous evaluation of the experiences and opinions of residents of the University of Botswana (UB) Family Medicine training programme has been reported.Aims: This study explored and assessed residents’ experiences and satisfaction with the FM training programme at the UB and solicited potential strategies for improvement from the residents.Methods: A descriptive survey using a self-administered questionnaire based on a Likert-type scale and open-ended questions was used to collect data from FM residents at the UB. Results: Eight out the 14 eligible residents participated to this study. Generally, residents were not satisfied with the FM training programme. Staff shortage, inadequate supervision and poor programme organisation by the faculty were the main reasons for this. However, the residents were satisfied with weekly training schedules and the diversity of patients in the current training sites. Residents’ potential solutions included an increase in staff, the acquisition of equipment at teaching sites and emphasis on FM core topics teachings. They had different views regarding how certain future career paths will be.Conclusions: Despite the general dissatisfaction among residents because of challenges faced by the training programme, we have learnt that residents are capable of valuable inputs for improvement of their programme when engaged. There is need for the Department of Family Medicine to work with the Ministry of Health to set a clear career pathway for future graduates and to reflect on residents’ input for possible implementation.
Exploring the occupational therapist’s role in primary health care: Listening to voices of stakeholders
Authors: Naidoo Deshini , Van Wyk Jacqueline , Joubert Robin W. E.
Published: August 2016

Background: Re-engineering of primary healthcare (PHC) was initiated nationally in 2009. There is, however, little information on the role expected of occupational therapists (OTs)in PHC. Objectives: This research aimed to understand how stakeholders of the Department of Health (DOH) perceived the role of OT in PHC service. Method: This exploratory, qualitative study used purposive sampling to recruit community health-care workers (CHW; n = 23), primary healthcare nurses (PHC; n = 5), DOH management (n = 5), experienced (n = 14) and novice OTs (n = 37) who graduated from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The PHC nurses and the CHW represented PHC clinics in one district in KwaZulu-Natal. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Interviews with CHWs were conducted in isiZulu. These were transcribed and translated prior to data analysis. Audio recordings of English interviews and focus groups were transcribed. Data for each participant group were inductively and thematically analysed to identify the themes. Results: The findings provided an indication of the role of OTs in PHC settings. All participants perceived the role of OTs as predominantly curative/rehabilitation-based and individualised. Participants had a limited understanding of the key principles of PHC. They identified a need for adult and paediatric rehabilitation and early childhood intervention. Limited mention was made of population-based approaches, collaborative, and health promotion and prevention programmes. Conclusion: The study has highlighted that neither management nor OTs seemed to align practice and planning according to PHC principles. A review of the theory and experiential learning in the OT programme is required.
Improving diabetic foot screening at a primary care clinic: A quality improvement project
Authors: Allen Michelle L. , Van der Does Albertine M.B. , Gunst Colette
Published: August 2016

Background: Foot screening is an important part of diabetic care as it prevents significant morbidity, loss of function and mortality from diabetic foot complications. However, foot screening is often neglected.Aim: This project was aimed at educating health care workers (HCWs) in a primary health care clinic to increase diabetic foot screening practices. Setting: A primary health care clinic in the Western Cape province of South AfricaMethods: A quality improvement project was conducted. HCWs’ needs were assessed using a questionnaire. This was followed by focus group discussions with the HCWs, which were recorded, transcribed and assessed using a general inductive approach. An intervention was designed based on common themes. Staff members were trained on foot screening and patient information pamphlets and screening tools were made available to all clinic staff. Thirty-two consecutive diabetic patient folders were audited to compare screening in 2013 with that in 2014 after initiation of the quality improvement cycle.Results: HCWs’ confidence in conducting foot screening using the diabetic foot assessment questionnaire improved markedly after training. Diabetic foot screening practices increased from 9% in 2013 to 69% in 2014 after the first quality improvement cycle. A strengths, opportunities, aspirations and results (SOAR) analysis showed promise for continuing quality improvement cycles.Conclusion: The findings showed a significant improvement in the number of diabetic patients screened. Using strategic planning with appreciative intent based on SOAR, proved to be motivational and can be used in the planning of the next cycle.
The drum and its significance for the interpretation of the Old Testament from an African perspective: Part two
Authors: Oosthuizen Rudolph De Wet
Published: August 2016

Allowing the (South) African context to inform the construction and enhancement of the comparative paradigm as a reading strategy for the interpretation of the Old Testament enables one to identify and appreciate aspects of significance for the contemporary reader, relating to the interpretation of the text. Bearing in mind the importance of music and its function regarding religious expression, various aspects pertaining to the function and significance of music are being explored in order to enrich the interpretation of Psalm 150, with specific reference to music and musical instruments. (Whilst the focus in Part one [Oosthuizen 2016] is more on some hermeneutical aspects as pertaining to a specific reading strategy, Part two explores the significance of music for the interpretation of the Old Testament from an African perspective with specific reference to the drum and its usage in Psalm 150). Music enables one to comprehend and articulate a very particular aspect of religious experience, and it is of the utmost importance that this be acknowledged and taken into account in the current debate regarding appropriate strategies for the interpretation of religious texts in an African context. Three aspects serve to illustrate how the comparative approach can be augmented by drawing attention to aspects of particular interest for an African reading of the Old Testament: �music as space to encounter the divine�, the infectious nature of music, and �drumming� as a point of contact between the Old Testament and Africa.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: In our encounters with the biblical text, the (South-) African context can inform a comparative reading of the Old Testament. In so doing, the �comparative paradigm� is augmented by allowing insights from various disciplines to inform the reader and to apprise a reading strategy that allows for the encounter with the text to be understood not merely in terms of a historical-descriptive or linguistic exercise only, but provides an opportunity to explore various perspectives pertaining to the appreciation and interpretation of the text (Psalm 150).
Towards a Unified Macroscopic Description of Exciton Diffusion in Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Chen Jingrun , Lin Jason D. A. , Nguyen Thuc-Quyen
Published: August 2016

We study the exciton diffusion in organic semiconductors from a macroscopic viewpoint. In a unified way, we conduct the equivalence analysis between Monte-Carlo method and diffusion equation model for photoluminescence quenching and photocurrent spectrum measurements, in both the presence and the absence of Förster energy transfer effect. Connections of these two models to Stern-Volmer method and exciton-exciton annihilation method are also specified for the photoluminescence quenching measurement.
Particle Methods for Viscous Flows: Analogies and Differences Between the SPH and DVH Methods
Authors: Colagrossi Andrea , Rossi Emanuele , Marrone Salvatore , Touzé David Le
Published: August 2016

In this work two particle methods are studied in the context of viscous flows. The first one is a Vortex Particle Method, called Diffused Vortex Hydrodynamics (DVH), recently developed to simulate complex viscous flows at medium and high Reynolds regimes. This method presents some similarities with the SPH model and its Lagrangian meshless nature, even if it is based on a different numerical approach. Advantages and drawbacks of the two methods have been previously studied in Colagrossi et al. [1] from a theoretical point of view and in Rossi et al. [2], where these particle methods have been tested on selected benchmarks. Further investigations are presented in this article highlighting analogies and differences between the two particle models.
A Comparison of Higher-Order Weak Numerical Schemes for Stopped Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Bernal Francisco , Acebrón Juan A.
Published: August 2016

We review, implement, and compare numerical integration schemes for spatially bounded diffusions stopped at the boundary which possess a convergence rate of the discretization error with respect to the timestephhigher than. We address specific implementation issues of the most general-purpose of such schemes. They have been coded into a single Matlab program and compared, according to their accuracy and computational cost, on a wide range of problems in up to ℝ48. The paper is self-contained and the code will be made freely downloadable.
Medication Literacy: Why Pharmacists Should Pay Attention
Authors: Pouliot Annie , Vaillancourt Régis
Published: August 2016

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Stability of Hydrocortisone, Nifedipine, and Nitroglycerine Compounded Preparations for the Treatment of Anorectal Conditions
Authors: Friciu Mihaela , Chefson Amandine , Leclair Grégoire
Published: August 2016

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Обобщенная тернарная проблема Эстермана для нецелых степеней с почти равными слагаемыми
Authors: Rakhmonov Parviz Zarulloevich
Published: August 2016

Доказана асимптотическая формула в обобщенной тернарной
проблеме Эстермана для нецелых степеней с почти равными
слагаемыми о представлении достаточно большого натурального
числа в виде суммы двух простых и целой части нецелой
степени натурального числа.
Библиография: 10 названий.
Уравнения Максвелла, индекс Эйлера и теория Морса
Authors: Valero Carlos
Published: August 2016

Показано, что особенности поверхности Френеля
для уравнений Максвелла в анизотропном материале
можно объяснить из чисто топологических соображений.
Важность этих особенностей заключается в том,
что они позволяют объяснить явление конической рефракции,
предсказанное Гамильтоном.
Показано, как можно устранить особенности поверхности Френеля,
что позволяет применить теорию Морса для нахождения
оценки снизу числа критических скоростей волны
внутри рассматриваемого материала.
Наконец, предлагается схема, позволяющая обобщить полученные результаты
на случай общих гиперболических дифференциальных операторов
на дифференцируемых расслоениях.
Библиография: 11 названий.
О константе и шаге в неравенстве Джексона для наилучших приближений тригонометрическими многочленами и многочленами Хаара
Authors: Andrianov P A , Vinogradov Oleg Leonidovich
Published: August 2016

В работе устанавливается два точных результата для наилучших
приближений периодических функций. Доказывается неулучшаемость
шага модуля непрерывности в неравенстве Джексона с наименьшей
возможной константой для приближений тригонометрическими
многочленами. Также доказывается неулучшаемость констант
в неравенстве типа Джексона для приближений многочленами
Хаара от нескольких переменных.
Библиография: 9 названий.
О скорости сходимости в $L$ рядов Фурье по синусам с монотонными коэффициентами
Authors: Telyakovskii Sergei Aleksandrovich
Published: August 2016

Показано, что точный порядок убывания нормы в $L$ остатка
ряда Фурье по синусам с монотонными коэффициентами выражается
через коэффициенты ряда так же, как и для рядов
с выпуклыми коэффициентами. Но числовые множители
в оценках при этом различны.
Библиография 5 названий.
Об одном диофантовом уравнении
Authors: Leont'ev Vladimir Konstantinovich
Published: August 2016

Рассматриваается линейное диофантово уравнение с дополнительными
ограничениями на неизвестные. Получены условия разрешимости.
Библиография: 8 названий.
Hipsters on Our High Streets: Consuming the Gentrification Frontier
Authors: Hubbard Phil
Published: August 2016

Gentrification involves the displacement of working class populations, a phenomena most obviously manifest in the transformation of residential landscapes. But this is also palpable in the changes visible on many shopping streets, with locally-oriented stores serving poorer populations and ethnic minorities being replaced by ‘hipster’ stores such as ‘real coffee’ shops, vintage clothing stores and bars serving microbrews. These stores have been taken as a sign that the fortunes of struggling shopping streets are improving, with the new outlets often depicted as offering a better range of healthy, green and ‘authentic’ consumption choices than the shops they displace. However, this paper argues that we need to resist this form of retail change given it typically represents the first stage of a more thoroughgoing retail gentrification process, remaining suspicious of forms of hipster consumption which, while aesthetically ‘improving’ local shopping streets in deprived areas, actually encourage the colonisation of neighbourhoods by the more affluent.
An Autoethnography of Fat and Weight Loss: Becoming the Bw0 with Deleuze and Guattari
Authors: Leith Valerie M Sheach
Published: August 2016

This article experiments with some of the insights provided by the work of Deleuze and Guattari as a move towards deterritorializing fat bodies. This is necessary because in contemporary Western society the fat [female] body is positioned and frequently experienced as lacking in social, cultural and political value and as being in need of surveillance and control, not least by the neo-liberal ‘self’. This article is a response to Deleuze and Guattari's plea to ‘think differently’, in this case about fat and weight loss. The article eschews the paradigmatic form of the traditional academic research paper, adopting a semi autoethnographic approach to present an analysis of my engagement with the Biggest Loser (diet) Club. Thinking through rather than about the body it focuses on embodied experiences of fat and the on-going process of cutting that body down to ‘normal’ size. By utilising two central concepts in Deleuzoguattarian thought – ‘becoming’ and the ‘body – without – organs’ (BwO) - I seek to demonstrate the embodied, theoretical and ethical potential of utilising Deleuze and Guattari's work to explore fat and weight loss and how this might productively serve to deterritorialize contemporary discourses which stigmatise fat bodies.
Doing Audio-Visual Montage to Explore Time and Space: The Everyday Rhythms of Billingsgate Fish Market
Authors: Lyon Dawn
Published: August 2016

This article documents, shows and analyses the everyday rhythms of Billingsgate, London's wholesale fish market. It takes the form of a short film based an audio-visual montage of time-lapse photography and sound recordings, and a textual account of the dimensions of market life revealed by this montage. Inspired by Henri Lefebvre's Rhythmanalysis, and the embodied experience of moving through and sensing the market, the film renders the elusive quality of the market and the work that takes place within it to make it happen. The composite of audio-visual recordings immerses viewers in the space and atmosphere of the market and allows us to perceive and analyse rhythms, patterns, flows, interactions, temporalities and interconnections of market work, themes that this article discusses. The film is thereby both a means of showing market life and an analytic tool for making sense of it. This article critically considers the documentation, evocation and analysis of time and space in this way.
Sanitising the City: Exploring Hegemonic Gentrification in London's Soho
Authors: Sanders-Mcdonagh Erin , Peyrefitte Magali , Ryalls Matt
Published: August 2016

This article will explore the gentrification of Soho, reflecting on ethnographic research undertaken in the area over the past fifteen months, to argue that the recent social, political, and economic changes in Soho must be understood in relation to private, marketized and globalized neoliberal capitalist forces. We argue that the changes to the area result in a heavily-weighted form of gentrification that works to actively and knowingly sanitize the city, removing ‘undesirable’ people and venues from the area. As such, we propose to define this process as ‘hegemonic gentrification’, and distinguish this from other forms of gentrification in order to understand the different processes that underpin these specific changes, and more broadly, it allows us to problematize these changes as regards to the ‘right to the city’, and to expand current understandings in a way that allows for a more nuanced analysis of urban gentrification and its impacts within neolibreral capitalism.
Let Us Devastate the Avenues Where the Wealthy Live’: Resisting Gentrification in the 21st Century City
Authors: Wilkinson Eleanor
Published: August 2016

This paper explores why individual retailers have become the target of anti-gentrification protest, examining where the ‘blame’ for gentrification should be placed. Some commentators have argued that independent retailers should not be scapegoated, as this blames individuals for wider structural processes. In this paper I provide a brief overview of some of the retailers who have been targeted in anti-gentrification protests. These businesses have been singled out as their aesthetic branding has provoked conflict between existing residents and incoming gentrifiers. In each of these cases, the history of an area has been nostalgically appropriated via ironic marketing campaigns promoting ‘hip’ urban consumption. The paper questions whether these instances can be simply excused as instances of ‘bad taste’ and misjudged marketing. I turn to Bourdieu to think about the ways in which class inequality is upheld via symbolic violence. The paper highlights how social inequality does not just come about via economic restructuring, but also through symbolic gestures and lifestyles, which mark certain places as both financially and culturally out of reach. Ultimately, I argue that while the wider structures of gentrification may exist beyond the agency of individual retailers and consumers, this does not mean that individuals have no role to play in determining how gentrification plays out in our communities.
Cultural Participation, Personality and Educational Inequalities
Authors: Kaiser Till , Schneickert Christian
Published: August 2016

Various studies have examined the relevance of either cultural capital or personality traits for academic achievement. Integrating these two fields of research, this study compares cultural participation in ‘highbrow activities’ and personality and their possible impact on the intergenerational transmission of educational inequalities in primary school. It also examines whether cultural participation in ‘highbrow activities’ and personality substitute for a non-academic background. The differences and similarities of the sociological concept of habitus and the psychological concept of personality are discussed on a conceptual level. Data are drawn from the German Socio-Economic Panel Study (SOEP) and the Families in Germany Study (FiD). Results show that the effect of parental education on school grades is partially mediated by three personality facets – Focus, Intellect, and Curiosity – as well as the cultural activity of playing music. Furthermore, the effect of parental education on school grades is multiple-mediated via playing music and Focus, as well as Curiosity to a small extent. Results of a multiple group analysis between children from academic and non-academic households show that participation in cultural activities and personality does not substitute for parental education.
Current challenges in modelling far-range air pollution induced by the 2014–2015 Bárðarbunga fissure eruption (Iceland)
Authors: Boichu Marie , Chiapello Isabelle , Brogniez Colette , Péré Jean-Christophe , Thieuleux Francois , Torres Benjamin , Blarel Luc , Mortier Augustin , Podvin Thierry , Goloub Philippe , Söhne Nathalie , Clarisse Lieven , Bauduin Sophie , Hendrick François , Theys Nicolas , Van Roozendael Michel , Tanré Didier
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The 2014–2015 Holuhraun lava-flood eruption of Bárðarbunga volcano (Iceland) emitted prodigious amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. This eruption caused a large-scale episode of air pollution throughout Western Europe in September 2014, the first event of this magnitude recorded in the modern era. We gathered chemistry-transport simulations and a wealth of complementary observations from satellite sensors (OMI, IASI), ground-based remote sensing (lidar, sunphotometry, differential optical absorption spectroscopy) and ground-level air quality monitoring networks to characterize both the spatial-temporal distributions of volcanic SO2 and sulfate aerosols as well as the dynamics of the planetary boundary layer. Time variations of dynamical and microphysical properties of sulfate aerosols in the aged low-tropospheric volcanic cloud, including loading, vertical distribution, size distribution and single scattering albedo, are provided. Retrospective chemistry-transport simulations at low horizontal resolution (25 km  ×  25 km) capture the correct temporal dynamics of this far-range air pollution event but fail to reproduce the correct magnitude of SO2 concentration at ground-level. Simulations at higher spatial resolution, relying on two nested domains with finest resolution of 7.3 km  ×  7.3 km, improve substantially the far-range vertical distribution of the volcanic cloud and subsequently the description of ground-level SO2 concentrations. However, remaining discrepancies between model and observations are shown to result from an inaccurate representation of the planetary boundary layer (PBL) dynamics. Comparison with lidar observations points out a systematic under-estimation of the PBL height by the model, whichever the PBL parameterization scheme. Such a shortcoming impedes the capture of the overlying Bárðarbunga cloud into the PBL at the right time and in sufficient quantities. This study therefore demonstrates the key role played by the PBL dynamics in accurately modelling large-scale volcanogenic air pollution.
A modeling study of asymmetries in plasma irregularity characteristics near gradient reversals
Authors: Lamarche Leslie J. , Makarevich Roman A.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Asymmetries in plasma density irregularity generation between the leading and trailing edges of the large-scale plasma density structures in the high-latitude ionosphere are investigated. A model is developed that evaluates the gradient-drift instability (GDI) growth rate differences across the gradient reversal that is applicable at all propagation directions and for the broad range of altitudes spanning the entire lower ionosphere. In particular, the model describes asymmetries that would be observed by an oblique scanning radar near density structures in the polar cap such as elongated polar patches. The dependencies on the relative orientations between the directions of the gradient reversal, plasma convection, and wave propagation are examined at different altitudinal regions. At all altitudes, the largest asymmetries are expected for observations along the gradient reversals, e.g., when an elongated structure is oriented along the radar boresight. The convection direction that results in the strongest asymmetries exhibits a strong dependence on the altitude, with the optimal convection being parallel to the gradient reversal in the E region, perpendicular to it in the F region, and at some angle between these extremes in the transitional region. Implications for observations of polar patches by oblique scanning radars within the Super Dual Auroral Radar Network are discussed. It is demonstrated that the wave propagation direction relative to the prevalent convection and gradient directions plays a critical role in controlling both the irregularity growth rate and its asymmetries near gradient reversals.
DebrisInterMixing-2.3: a finite volume solver for three-dimensional
debris-flow simulations with two calibration parameters – Part 1: Model description
Authors: von Boetticher Albrecht , Turowski Jens M. , McArdell Brian W. , Rickenmann Dieter , Kirchner James W.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Here, we present a three-dimensional fluid dynamic solver that simulates debris flows as a mixture of two fluids (a Coulomb viscoplastic model of the gravel mixed with a Herschel–Bulkley representation of the fine material suspension) in combination with an additional unmixed phase representing the air and the free surface. We link all rheological parameters to the material composition, i.e., to water content, clay content, and mineral composition, content of sand and gravel, and the gravel's friction angle; the user must specify only two free model parameters. The volume-of-fluid (VoF) approach is used to combine the mixed phase and the air phase into a single cell-averaged Navier–Stokes equation for incompressible flow, based on code adapted from standard solvers of the open-source CFD software OpenFOAM. This effectively single-phase mixture VoF method saves computational costs compared to the more sophisticated drag-force-based multiphase models. Thus, complex three-dimensional flow structures can be simulated while accounting for the pressure- and shear-rate-dependent rheology.
Quantifying shallow subsurface water and heat dynamics using coupled
hydrological-thermal-geophysical inversion
Authors: Tran Anh Phuong , Dafflon Baptiste , Hubbard Susan S. , Kowalsky Michael B. , Long Philip , Tokunaga Tetsu K. , Williams Kenneth H.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Improving our ability to estimate the parameters that control water and heat fluxes in the shallow subsurface is particularly important due to their strong control on recharge, evaporation and biogeochemical processes. The objectives of this study are to develop and test a new inversion scheme to simultaneously estimate subsurface hydrological, thermal and petrophysical parameters using hydrological, thermal and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) data. The inversion scheme – which is based on a nonisothermal, multiphase hydrological model – provides the desired subsurface property estimates in high spatiotemporal resolution. A particularly novel aspect of the inversion scheme is the explicit incorporation of the dependence of the subsurface electrical resistivity on both moisture and temperature. The scheme was applied to synthetic case studies, as well as to real datasets that were autonomously collected at a biogeochemical field study site in Rifle, Colorado. At the Rifle site, the coupled hydrological-thermal-geophysical inversion approach well predicted the matric potential, temperature and apparent resistivity with the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency criterion greater than 0.92. Synthetic studies found that neglecting the subsurface temperature variability, and its effect on the electrical resistivity in the hydrogeophysical inversion, may lead to an incorrect estimation of the hydrological parameters. The approach is expected to be especially useful for the increasing number of studies that are taking advantage of autonomously collected ERT and soil measurements to explore complex terrestrial system dynamics.
Comparisons of stemflow yield and efficiency between two xerophytic shrubs: the effects of leaves and implications in drought tolerance
Authors: Yuan C. , Gao G. Y. , Fu B. J.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Stemflow transports enriched precipitation to the rhizosphere and is highly important for the survival of xerophytic shrubs in water-stressed ecosystems. However, its ecological significance has generally been underestimated because it is relatively limited in amount, and the biotic mechanisms that affect it have not been thoroughly studied at the leaf scale. In this study, the branch stemflow volume (SFb), the shrub stemflow equivalent water depth (SFd), the stemflow percentage of incident precipitation (SF%), the stemflow productivity (SFP), the funnelling ratio (FR), the rainfall characteristics and the plant traits of branches and leaves of C. korshinskii and S. psammophila were measured during the 2014 and 2015 rainy seasons in the northern Loess Plateau of China. This study evaluated the stemflow production efficiency for the first time with the combined results of SFP and FR, and sought to determine the inter- and intra-specific differences in stemflow production and production efficiency, as well as the specific bio-/abiotic mechanisms that affected stemflow. The results indicated that precipitation amount was the most influential rainfall characteristic that affected stemflow in these two endemic shrub species and that stem biomass and leaf biomass were the most influential plant traits in C. korshinskii and S. psammophila, respectively. C. korshinskii had a greater stemflow production and production efficiency at all precipitation levels, and the largest inter-specific difference was generally in the 5‒10-mm young shoots during the most frequent rainfall events of ≤2 mm. C. korshinskii had a lower precipitation threshold (0.9 mm vs. 2.1 mm for S. psammophila), which provided more available water from rainfall for stemflow. The leaves affected stemflow production, and the beneficial leaf traits contributed to the higher stemflow production of C. korshinskii. In summary, C. korshinskii might have greater drought tolerance and a competitive edge in a dryland ecosystem because of greater and more efficient stemflow production, a lower precipitation threshold and more advantageous leaf traits.
Model of a new joint thread for a drilling tool and its stress analysis used in a slim borehole
Authors: Wang Yu , Xia Bairu , Wang Zhiqiao , Chai Chong
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The drilling pipe used in slim-borehole drilling performs well due to its low cost and high efficiency. Good sealing properties and coupling strength are the two keys to ensure that the pipe works correctly. In this paper, a 68 mm diameter drilling pipe and its joint are developed. On the basis of Lame's theory, the contact model of the joint thread is represented under different axial force, makeup torque, and pressure difference between inner and outer pipe. This model provides a good reference for judging the quality of sealing of the joint thread. The analysis software ANSYS\\Workbench is applied to stimulate the distribution of contact stress and sealing properties. A premium condition for drilling has been proposed, which provides a good theoretical basis for slim-borehole drilling.
New data on geology of the Southern Urals: a concise summary of
research after the period of EUROPROBE activity
Authors: Puchkov Victor N.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The period of official activity of the EUROPROBE commission was conducted in the Urals with implementation of the URALIDES program, which stimulated many qualified geologists from western research institutes and universities to come to the region and work with local geologists on topical problems of Uralian geology. The author aims to answer questions as to what interesting results have been obtained in the Southern Urals in the last decade, after most foreign researchers left the Urals, and how these results correspond to the scientific conclusions that had been reached before.
SILANIZATION CHARACTERIZATION AND COMPOUND PROPERTIES OF SILICA-FILLED RUBBER CONTAINING A BLOCKED MERCAPTO SILANE
Authors: Lin Chenchy J. , York W. Michael , Cody Russell J.
Published: August 2016

The silanization of silica-filled compounds containing a blocked mercapto silane, 3-octanoylthiopropyltriethoxysilane (OTPTES), was characterized by evaluating the exposed silica surface covered by the silane. Measurements of silica flocculation upon heating were employed to estimate the exposed silica surface coverage for silanization calculation. Compounds were prepared with various mechanical and thermal histories by adjusting the mixing time and temperature. Dynamic hysteretic properties at 0 and 60 °C in conjunction with strategic mechanical properties were correlated with the degree of silanization for each compound. Well-balanced properties in processability, reinforcement, and performance were readily attained through the study of the silanization/structure/property relationship. Experimental data showed that an 84% degree of silanization was needed to attain the optimal properties of compounds containing OTPTES regardless of the mixing protocol. Consistent compound properties may be realized by using a designated degree of silanization as a key mixing parameter for effective quality control in tire production.
DIREITO, POLÍTICA E RECONHECIMENTO: APONTAMENTOS SOBRE KARL MARX E A CRÍTICA AO DIREITO
Authors: Sartori Vitor Bartoletti
Published: August 2016

Tendo por essencial a concepção de Marx segundo a qual “o Direito não é mais que o reconhecimento oficial do fato”, tratar-se-á do modo pelo qual a categoria do “reconhecimento” (Anerkennung) se apresenta no tratamento marxiano acerca da esfera jurídica. Em meio a isso, pretende-se traçar aspectos importantes da diferença específica existente entre as esferas da Política e do Direito. Enquanto, para o autor de O capital, a primeira se mostra como um campo em que há alguma possibilidade da explicitação da natureza antagônica da sociedade civil-burguesa (bürgerliche Gesellschaft), ou seja, um terreno que pode levar, com as devidas mediações, à centralidade da luta de classes, no Direito isso parece, em Marx, como algo muito mais difícil de ocorrer, na medida mesma em que a noção de reconhecimento vem à tona.
PODER JUDICIÁRIO E REGIME AUTORITÁRIO: DEMOCRACIA, HISTÓRIA CONSTITUCIONAL E PERMANÊNCIAS AUTORITÁRIAS
Authors: Schinke Vanessa Dorneles , Silva Filho José Carlos Moreira da
Published: August 2016

O trabalho analisa procedimentos adotados pela ditadura civil-militar brasileira (1964-1985) em relação ao Poder Judiciário, e tem como objeto identificar estratégias utilizadas pelo Judiciário para amenizar impressões de descontinuidades ou anormalidades institucionais. Nesse intuito, faz a análise a partir de dois eixos interpretativos: das permanências autoritárias e dos discursos criados para sustentar o projeto autoritário. Diante da legalidade autoritária, defende que o Poder Judiciário adotou a teoria do direito como fato, no intuito de obscurecer a ruptura com o Estado de direito, misturando sem qualquer cerimônia Atos Institucionais, a Constituição outorgada e a legislação anterior, produzida em período democrático. Analisando a doutrina de segurança nacional, o artigo identifica a similitude entre a narrativa construída pelo Judiciário brasileiro e o modelo conservador latino-americano, e traz elementos da história constitucional brasileira, identificando repetições históricas em relação aos papéis desempenhados pelo Judiciário em diferentes contextos autoritários. Por fim, aponta para algumas continuidades autoritárias do Judiciário brasileiro no período pós-ditatorial.
Mothers of Pan-Africanism: Audley Moore and Dara Abubakari
Authors: Farmer Ashley D.
Published: August 2016

Audley Moore and Dara Abubakari were lifelong theorists and activists who were committed to Pan-African organizing and black nation-building initiatives. Both born in Louisiana, Moore and Abubakari developed their political critique and honed their activism amid organizations like the Universal Negro Improvement Association, the Communist Party, and the Universal Association of Ethiopian Women during the first half of the twentieth century. In the 1960s and 1970s, Moore and Abubakari became leaders and mentors in organizations like the Republic of New Africa and the Revolutionary Action Movement, ensuring that their activism and Pan-African political vision influenced the next generation of activists. This article examines their activist lives and argues that they were key figures in sustaining and propelling Pan-African formulations and communities at the grassroots level. In excavating the histories and activism of these two understudied women, this article reshapes the political and intellectual trajectory of Pan-African organizing and specifies the ways in which African American women forged diasporic relationships and communities.
Genetics of drought tolerance at seedling and maturity stages in Zea mays L.
Authors: Khan Nazar H. , Ahsan Muhammad , Naveed Muhammad , Sadaqat Hafeez A. , Javed Imran
Published: August 2016

Shortage of irrigation water at critical growth stages of maize is limiting its production worldwide. Breeding drought-tolerant cultivars is one possible solution while identification of potential genotypes is crucial for genetic improvement. To assess genetic variation for seedling-stage drought tolerance, we tested 40 inbred lines in a completely randomized design under glasshouse conditions. From these, two contrasting inbred lines were used to develop six basic generations (P1, P2, F1, F2, BC1F1, BC2F2). These populations were then evaluated in a triplicated factorial randomized complete block design under non-stressed and drought-stressed conditions. For statistical analyses, a nested block design was employed to ignore the replication effects. Significant differences (p≤0.01) were recorded among the genotypes for investigated seedling-traits. Absolute values of fresh root length, fresh root weight, and dry root weight lead to select two genotypes, one tolerant (WFTMS) and one susceptible (Q66). Estimates of heritability, genetic advance, and genotypic correlation coefficients were higher and significant for most of the seedling-traits. Generation variance analysis revealed additive gene action. Narrow-sense heritability [F2 ≥ 65; F∞ ≥ 79] revealed the same results. Generation mean analysis signified additive genetic effects in the inheritance of cob girth, non-additive for plant height, grains per ear row and grain yield per plant, and environmental for ear leaf area, cob length, grain rows per ear, biomass per plant, and 100-grain weight under drought-stressed conditions. For conferring drought-tolerance in maize, breeders can adopt the recombinant breeding strategy to pyramid the desirable genes.
Comparative analysis of traditional and modern apricot breeding programs: A case of study with Spanish and Tunisian apricot breeding germplasm
Authors: Batnini Mohamed A. , Krichen Lamia , Bourguiba Hedia , Trifi-Farah Neila , Ruiz David , Martínez-Gómez Pedro , Rubio Manuel
Published: August 2016

Traditional plant breeding is based on the observation of variation and the selection of the best phenotypes, whereas modern breeding is characterised by the use of controlled mating and the selection of descendants using molecular markers. In this work, a comparative analysis of genetic diversity in a traditional (Tunisian) and a modern (Spanish) apricot breeding programme was performed at the phenotypic and molecular level using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Seven phenotypic traits were evaluated in 42 Tunisian apricot accessions and 30 genotypes from the Spanish apricot programme. In addition, 20 SSR markers previously described as linked to specific phenotypic traits were assayed. Results showed that modern breeding using controlled crosses increases the size of the fruit. The fruit weight average observed in the Tunisian cultivars was of 20.15 g. In the case of traditional Spanish cultivars the average weight was 47.12 g, whereas the average weight of the other progenitors from France, USA and South Africa was 72.85 g. Finally, in the new releases from the CEBAS-CSIC breeding programme, the average weight was 72.82 g. In addition, modern bred cultivars incorporate desirable traits such as self-compatibility and firmness. Cluster and structural analysis based on SSR data clearly differentiates the genotypes according to their geographic origin and pedigree. Finally, results showed an association between some alleles of PaCITA7 and UDP96003 SSR markers with apricot fruit weight, one allele of UDAp407 marker with fruit firmness and one allele of UDP98406 marker with fruit ripening.
Effects of synthetic Zn chelates on flax response and soil Zn status
Authors: Gonzalez Demetrio , Almendros Patricia , Alvarez Jose M.
Published: August 2016

Throughout the world, flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is often grown in Zn-deficient soils, but appropriate fertilizer management can optimize both crop yield and micronutrient content. A greenhouse experiment was conducted on Typic Haploxeralf (pH 6.1) and Typic Calcixerept (pH 8.1) soils to study the relative efficiency of chelated Zn using two application rates of three different Zn sources [Zn-EDDHSA, ethylenediamine-di-(2-hydroxy-5-sulfophenylacetate of Zn); Zn-HEDTA, N-2-hydroxyethyl-ethylenediaminetriacetate of Zn; and Zn-EDTA, ethylenediaminetetraacetate of Zn]. Dry matter /DM) yield, Zn concentration, chlorophyll content, crude fiber and tensile properties were monitored and the soil-Zn status (available-Zn, Zn-fractions and total-Zn) was assessed. Zinc chelate applications increased the most labile forms of Zn in soils and Zn concentrations in plants. The low rate of Zn generally had a beneficial effect on DM yield and tensile properties. The exception was Zn-EDTA in the weakly acidic soil, where the highest Zn concentrations were observed in leaves and whole shoots; this coincided with the largest concentrations of labile Zn in soil. The most efficient fertilizers were Zn-EDDHSA (in both soils) and Zn-EDTA (in the calcareous soil). The relatively large amounts of labile and available Zn present in both of the soils fertilized with Zn-EDTA points to the applying this chelate at lower rate than 5 mg Zn/kg; this should, in turn, reduce the cost of Zn fertilization and minimize environmental pollution risk.
Is a combination of different natural substances suitable for slug (Arion spp.) control?
Authors: Laznik Žiga , Trdan Stanislav
Published: August 2016

In a laboratory study we investigated the contact and barrier efficacy of different natural substances (wood ash, sawdust, hydrated lime, and diatomaceous earth) against slugs of the genus Arion, an important agricultural pest. Natural substances were tested individually and in combination with each other. The experiment was carried out in plastic petri dishes and in glass insectaria. Moistened tampons and fresh leaves of lettuce were placed into both experimental arenas. The slugs were starved for 48 hours prior to the experiment. Six categories of behaviour were identified for slugs in the presence of the natural substances: (1) slug survived the experiment, (2) slug died during the experiment, (3) slug crossed the barrier, (4) slug did not cross the barrier, (5) slug fed on the lettuce, and (6) slug did not feed on the lettuce. The effect of different treatments (natural substances) was significant. The results of our study have shown that hydrated lime had the best contact efficacy on slugs (the mortality of slugs was 100%), both individually and in combination with other substances. The treatments with hydrated lime also proved to be the most efficient barrier preventing slugs from feeding on lettuce. Hydrated lime shows great potential in Arion control in our investigation; however, further research is needed to investigate the practical value (how to avoid the problem when the substance becomes wet), safety and economics of hydrated lime used in this way.
Body size, carcass and meat quality of three commercial beef categories of ‘Serrana de Teruel’ breed
Authors: Ripoll Guillermo , Albertí Pere , Alvarez-Rodríguez Javier , Blasco Isabel , Sanz Albina
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to analyse three commercial beef categories of the ‘Serrana de Teruel breed’ to define the appropriate commercial option. Twenty ‘Serrana de Teruel’ male calves at 9 months were assigned to the commercial beef categories (young bulls, bulls and steers), slaughtered at 12, 22 and 22 months of age, respectively. The in vivo ultrasound backfat thickness was greater than the dorsal fat thickness, and the young bulls and steers had a similar fat thickness, that was greater than the bulls in both areas. The slaughter weight and cold carcass weight were significantly different between the commercial categories. However, the differences were not sufficient to modify the dressing percentage, carcass conformation and fatness degree between the young bulls and bulls. The maximum stress of the muscle at 7 d of ageing was lower in the steers than in the young bulls and bulls. In general, the lightness of the meat in the bulls was lower than that in the young bulls and steers. The subcutaneous fat of the bull carcasses had a vivid colour and stored more carotenoids than that of the young bulls and steers. Hence, bulls produced heavier and better conformed carcasses with more edible meat and less fat than the other categories. However, steers are recommended to produce large carcasses with more trim and cover fat than the other categories. Finally, it seems that bulls are the most suitable commercial category to ‘Serrana de Teruel’ breed.