bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação físico-química do bicarbonato de sódio dispensado em farmácias
Authors: Do Vale Nascimento Antonio André , Chagas Ramos Magalhães Francisco , Miranda dos Santos Alcione , Regina de Castro Borba Elizabeth
Published: October 2019

O controle de qualidade é um conjunto de atividades realizadas para assegurar que o produto não seja entregue ao consumidor, sem antes cumprir as especificações definidas. Este estudo avaliou a qualidade físico-química do bicarbonato de sódio, na forma farmacêutica de pó, dispensado em farmácias no município de São Luís- MA. As análises foram realizadas de acordo com os métodos descritos na Farmacopeia Brasileira 5ª edição. Foram utilizadas 10 amostras do mesmo lote de cada fabricante, sendo analisados 3 fabricantes diferentes, realizando-se ensaios de identificação, pureza, determinação de peso e doseamento. As amostras cumpriram as especificações farmacopeicas nos ensaios de identificação e pureza. Nos testes para determinação de peso, as amostras analisadas dos três fabricantes cumprem o teste com um valor encontrado na média dos resultados de 100% da massa em relação ao peso declarado, indicando homogeneidade no envase e o fornecimento do produto na quantidade informada. No ensaio de doseamento, os três fabricantes: A (99,73%), B (100,16%) e C (99,94%) apresentaram-se em conformidade com a especificação da Farmacopeia Brasileira 5ª edição. Os resultados encontrados demonstram pouca variação entre as unidades e a média, observado em análise estatística, sugerindo homogeneidade entre as amostras analisadas no estudo. Constatou-se que as amostras analisadas dos três fabricantes cumpriram os testes de qualidade físico-químicos aplicados no estudo, sugerindo estar em conformidade com os padrões de qualidade preconizados.
Monte-Carlo-based uncertainty propagation in the context of Gauss–Markov model: a case study in coordinate transformation
Authors: Rofatto Vinicius Francisco , Matsuoka Marcelo Tomio , Klein Ivandro , Veronez Maurício Roberto
Published: October 2019

One of the main tasks of professionals in the Earth sciences is to convert coordinates from one reference frame into another. The coordinates transformation is widely needed and applied in all branches of modern geospatial activities. To convert from one reference frame to another, it is necessary initially to determine the parameters of a coordinate transformation model. A common way to estimate the transformation parameters is using the least-squares theory within a linearized Gauss-Markov Model (GMM). Another approach arises from a numerical method. Here, a Monte Carlo Method (MCM) is used to infer the uncertainty of estimators. This method is based on: (i) the assignment of probability distributions to the coordinates in the two reference frames, (ii) the determination of a discrete representation of the probability distribution for the transformation parameters, and (iii) the determination of the associated uncertainties from this discrete representation of the estimates of the transformation parameters. In this contribution, we compare the weighted least-squares within the GMM (WLSE-GM) and the proposed method regarding the transformation problem of computing 2D similarity transformation parameters. The results show that, the transformation parameters uncertainties are higher for the LS-MC than the WLSE-GM. This is due to the fact that the WLSE-GM solution does not take into account the uncertainties associated with the system matrix. In future studies the Monte Carlo method should be applied to the nonlinear least-squares solution.
Caracterização morfobiométrica de Senegalia bahiensis (Benth.) Seigler & Sbinger
Authors: Freitas Teresa Aparecida Soares de , Souza Thais Marcelo , Souza Leonardo Silva , Abdalla Samir Dutra , Souza Josival Santos
Published: October 2019

Os objetivos foram descrever e ilustrar morfologicamente frutos, sementes e plântulas de Senegalia bahiensis, além de suas biometrias. Os frutos foram colhidos em árvores-matrizes no município de Castro Alves - BA - Brasil. As avaliações e observações foram feitas mediante uma amostragem aleatória de 100 frutos de cada matriz. Para o fruto avaliaram-se: tipo; cor; comprimento, largura, textura, número de sementes sadias e bem formadas por fruto e número de falsos septos. Sendo o comprimento mensurado com régua milimetrada e a largura foi medido com o auxílio de um paquímetro digital de precisão0,1 mm. As características biométricas e morfológicas das sementes observadas foram: cor, dimensão, forma, hilo, calaza, tegumento e embrião. O acompanhamento do desenvolvimento das plântulas foi realizado em casa de vegetação com sombrite 50%.  Foi realizada a descrição das partes das plântulas, como: raiz, coleto, cotilédones hipocótilo, epicótilo, tipo de germinação, primeiro par de eófilos, além da tomada de comprimento da raiz primária, comprimento do hipocótilo e do epicótilo com auxílio de uma régua milimetrada. Os dados biométricos foram submetidos à análise descritiva calculando-se a média, máximo e mínimo, coeficiente de variação e erro padrão da média. Características dos frutos como sua deiscência, forma, coloração e sua textura; das sementes, como presença de pleurograma, calaza e posição do embrião; das plântulas como presença de estípulas interpeciolar e da filotaxia dos folíolulos, constituem-se como elementos que auxiliam para identificação da espécie no viveiro e em laboratório, como também no campo em trabalhos de regeneração natural.
Backbone dihedral angles prediction servers for protein early-stage structure prediction
Authors: Smolarczyk Tomasz , Stapor Katarzyna , Roterman-Konieczna Irena
Published: October 2019

Three-dimensional protein structure prediction is an important task in science at the intersection of biology, chemistry, and informatics, and it is crucial for determining the protein function. In the two-stage protein folding model, based on an early- and late-stage intermediates, we propose to use state-of-the-art secondary structure prediction servers for backbone dihedral angles prediction and devise an early-stage structure. Early-stage structures are used as a starting point for protein folding simulations, and any errors in this stage affect the final predictions. We have shown that modern secondary structure prediction servers could increase the accuracy of early-stage predictions compared to previously reported models.
Public Good Indices for Games with Several Levels of Approval
Authors: Courtin Sébastien , Tchantcho Bertrand
Published: October 2019

This work focuses on (j, 2) games in which there are several levels of approval in the input, i. e. games with n players, j ordered qualitative alternatives in the input level and 2 possible ordered quantitative alternatives in the output. When considering (j, 2) games, we extend the Public Good index (PGI), the Null Player Free index (NPFI) and the Shift index (SI) and provide full characterizations of these extensions.
Measuring language learner autonomy in higher education: The Self-Efficacy Questionnaire of Language Learning Strategies
Authors: Ruelens Elke
Published: October 2019

Students in higher education are expected to be autonomous and to become co-owners of their learning. In practice, they need support to advance their autonomy, and formal education is assigned an important role in this development. In order to optimally support the advancement of learner autonomy, educators should be able to define, identify and measure autonomy. Many models and approaches for measuring learner autonomy have been proposed, but as they were mainly developed for research purposes, they are not well suited for implementation in everyday teaching. This study aimed to design a tool to measure language learner autonomy in higher education that is easy to administer and interpret. The Self-Efficacy Questionnaire of Language Learning Strategies (SEQueLLS) blends the constructs of self-efficacy and learner autonomy. This article clarifies the intersection of both concepts, before outlining the development and preliminary validation of the questionnaire. Data collected during a pilot study in the Department of Linguistics and Literature at the University of Antwerp were used to perform a reliability analysis. The article will proceed with a discussion of the ways in which the questionnaire can inform teaching practice: on the basis of two case reports, teaching strategies for supporting students’ autonomy and sense of self-efficacy will be considered. To conclude, a framework suggesting an approach for developing strategy training based on students’ perceived efficacy beliefs for the use of learning strategies is proposed.
From motivation to successful learning: Needs analysis for effective teaching
Authors: Sieglová Dagmar
Published: October 2019

This contribution explores motivational factors from the perspective of students in order to design an effective approach to teaching. Its purpose is twofold. First, it pinpoints findings from a student needs analysis regarding their learning in relation to today’s teaching reality. Second, the findings serve as the basis for proposing a corresponding set of tools to implement an effective approach to teaching.

The student needs analysis was conducted at the Škoda Auto University in Mladá Boleslav, Czech Republic, originally pursuing students’ motivation in language learning. The data disclosed rich information about student learning sentiments and motivation, suggesting that it is internal rather than external drives that play a key role in their determination to learn. These include a desire for self-advancement, challenge, achievement, or success, as well as a need to link the content of learning with internal feelings, interests, and experiences.

The set of methods described in the subsequent part of the study are designed for the initiation of each lesson or opening a new topic, a phase during which students become motivated and make internal decisions about the degree of involvement with the subject. Linked to the findings from the research, they help teachers to welcome students’ perspectives and autonomy, tapping into their feelings, ideas, or personal experiences.
Kant on Moral Agency: Beyond the Incorporation Thesis
Authors: Viljanen Valtteri
Published: October 2019

This paper aims to discern the limits of the highly influential Incorporation Thesis to give proper weight to our sensuous side in Kant’s theory of moral action. I first examine the view of the faculties underpinning the theory, which allows me to outline the passage from natural to rational action. This enables me to designate the factors involved in actual human agency and thereby to show that, contrary to what the Incorporation Thesis may tempt one to believe, we do not always act on maxims. The result is a revised and more balanced view of how Kant sees the character of moral life.
Bond Properties of Polymer-Modified Lightweight Self-Consolidating Concrete Containing Expanded Polystyrene
Authors: Assaad Joseph J. , Daou Anas , Daou Yehia
Published: October 2019

Limited studies addressed the effect of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) latexes on bond properties of lightweight self-consolidating concrete (LWSCC) containing expanded polystyrene (EPS). Different concrete series containing up to 20 % EPS are tested in this program; the resulting density ranged from 1,870 to 2,350 kg/m3. The SBR was incorporated at various rates, whereas the water-to-binder ratio (w/b) was adjusted depending on EPS additions to maintain a fixed compressive strength of 42 ±4 MPa. The high-range water reducer and viscosity-modifier were regulated to secure the desired LWSCC workability and stability requirements. Test results showed that the incorporation of EPS decreases the pull-off bond strength to existing substrates as well as the ultimate bond strength to embedded steel bars, given the weaker concrete skeleton and stiffness that favor microcrack propagation during tensile loading. The reduction in w/b was efficient to strengthen the matrix and improve the pull-off bond, particularly for mixtures incorporating SBR additions. The improved ultimate bond strength that was due to decreased w/b was attributed to less bleed water and fewer shrinkage cracks at the vicinity of the reinforcing bars as well as higher concrete crushing strength between the steel ribs. A series of regression statistical models are developed to simplify predicting mechanical and bond properties of SBR-modified EPS-based LWSCC mixtures.
Optogenetically-Induced Population Discharge Threshold as a Sensitive Measure of Network Excitability
Authors: Klorig D. C. , Alberto G. E. , Smith T. , Godwin D. W.
Published: October 2019

Network excitability is governed by synaptic efficacy, intrinsic excitability, and the circuitry in which these factors are expressed. The complex interplay between these factors determines how circuits function and, at the extreme, their susceptibility to seizure. We have developed a sensitive, quantitative estimate of network excitability in freely behaving mice using a novel optogenetic intensity-response procedure. Synchronous activation of deep sublayer CA1 pyramidal cells produces abnormal network-wide epileptiform population discharges (PDs) that are nearly indistinguishable from spontaneously-occurring interictal spikes (IISs). By systematically varying light intensity, and therefore the magnitude of the optogenetically-mediated current, we generated intensity-response curves using the probability of PD as the dependent variable. Manipulations known to increase excitability, such as sub-convulsive doses (20 mg/kg) of the chemoconvulsant pentylenetetrazol (PTZ), produced a leftward shift in the curve compared to baseline. The anti-epileptic drug levetiracetam (LEV; 40 mk/kg), in combination with PTZ, produced a rightward shift. Optogenetically-induced PD threshold (oPDT) baselines were stable over time, suggesting the metric is appropriate for within-subject experimental designs with multiple pharmacological manipulations.
OPTİMUM BESLENMEDE SAĞLIKLI ATIŞTIRMALIKLARIN YERİ
Authors: DEĞERLİ Celalettin , EL Sedef Nehir
Published: October 2019

Günümüzde beslenmenin genel sağlığın korunmasındaki
önemi, medya araçları ile toplumun her kesimine ulaşacak şekilde popüler bir
noktaya gelmiştir. Obezite, tip-2 diyabet, damar sertliği (ateroskleroz) gibi
kronik rahatsızlıkların oluşumunun engellenmesi, kilo korunumunun sağlanması
gibi gerekçeler ile sağlıklı beslenme arayışının bir yönünü de sağlıklı
atıştırmalıklar oluşturmaktadır. Atıştırmalıklar her toplumun beslenmesinde
önemli bir yer tutmaktadır. Fakat gıda endüstrisi tarafından üretilen
atıştırmalık reçetelerinin büyük bir kısmı, yüksek enerji ve düşük besin öğesi
içerikleri nedeniyle optimum beslenmeye katkıları olmadığı yönünde
değerlendirilmektedir. Dolayısıyla üretilmekte olan bu atıştırmalıklarda,
reçetelerin yeniden düzenlenmesi bir gereklilik olarak ortaya çıkmıştır. Bu
derlemede öncelikle optimum beslenme yaklaşımı ve beslenme rehberleri, çocuk ve
ergen beslenmesi, sporcu beslenmesi genel hatlarıyla anlatılmış ve atıştırmalık
gıdaların ilgili beslenme şekillerinde yaratmakta olduğu olumsuz etki
vurgulanmıştır. Daha sonra atıştırma eyleminin tarihi ve atıştırmalık kültürü
anlatılmış, ülkemizde ve dünyada satışa sunulan atıştırmalıklar alanında
yapılan düzenlemeler ile sağlıklı atıştırmalıklar alanında yapılan akademik
çalışmalar incelenmiştir.
Why Ethics Needs Metaphysics?
Authors: Noreikaitė Aistė
Published: October 2019

The aim of this paper is to show that Ronald Dworkin’s objective to isolate ethics from metaphysics is not sufficiently grounded, and a certain metaphysics is inherent even in his own position of autonomous ethics. While opposing those thinkers who seek to ground ethics by finding an external – neutral and non-evaluative – ground, Dworkin identifies this externality to ethics with metaphysics and aims to show its fallibility. However, such a conception of metaphysics seems to be too narrow and one-sided and leads his own position into contradictions. This paper aims to demonstrate these contradictions and to argue that even the position that is inner to ethics and stems from a first-person agent’s perspective can only be developed while considering such metaphysical ideas as freedom, dignity, person.
The Duty of Knowing Oneself as One Appears: A Response to Kant’s Problem of Moral Self-Knowledge
Authors: Radhakrishnan Vivek Kumar
Published: October 2019

A challenge to Kant’s less known duty of self-knowledge comes from his own firm view that it is impossible to know oneself. This paper resolves this problem by considering the duty of self-knowledge as involving the pursuit of knowledge of oneself as one appears in the empirical world. First, I argue that, although Kant places severe restrictions on the possibility of knowing oneself as one is, he admits the possibility of knowing oneself as one appears using methods from empirical anthropology. Second, I show that empirical knowledge of oneself is fairly reliable and is, in fact, considered as morally significant from Kant’s moral anthropological perspective. Taking these points together, I conclude that Kant’s duty of self-knowledge exclusively entails the pursuit of empirical self-knowledge.
The Romanticism of Political Science
Authors: Jokubaitis Alvydas
Published: October 2019

The aim of the article is to demonstrate the relationship between modern political science and Romanticism. This is done by using Carl Schmitt’s conception of political romanticism and proposing some corrections to it. Schmitt failed to notice important similarities between the scientific concept of causa and the romantic concept of occasio. Modern political science is based on the same assumptions as the modern art of the romantic tradition. The researches of political science are conditioned by an unpolitical relationship with reality.
F. Brentano and K. Twardowski: Some Traces of Their Influence on the Contemporary Ukrainian Scholars
Authors: Karivets Ihor
Published: October 2019

n this article, the author considers the particularities of Franz Brentano’s psychognosy (descriptive psychology) in the context of notion of “basic” or “analytic” truths and his methodological approaches to scientific, philosophical investigations as well as his influence upon Kasimir Twardowski, who was the pupil of Brentano and accepted the main points of his methodological program.The author also stresses that the study of Brentano’s and Twardowski’s heritage is important for tracing the origin of scientific/analytic philosophy. It is very important to investigate Brentano-Twardowski relations in the context of the concept of “basic truths” or “analytic truths”. Brentano stresses that “basic truths” can be found thanks to “psychognosy” or “pure psychology”. For Twardowski, psychology is the base for philosophical investigations because it helps to understand the formation of notions and judgements.This article is also dedicated to the inquiries of Brentano’s and Twardowski’s legacy provided by Ukrainian scholars Borys Dombrowskiy and Yanosh Sanotskiy. The reception of Brentano’s theory of judgement in Dombrowskiy’s works and the problem of Brentano’s psychologism in Sanotskiy’s works were examined.
The peculiarities of interaction of population mobility by financial position with the attitude and readiness for business
Authors: Nour Andrii
Published: October 2019

Defined the specificity of mobility flows of the working population by financial position, depending on the social and employment status. Been analyzed entrepreneurial potential of Ukrainian society, the level of readiness of the economically active population to the entrepreneurship depending on the level of well-being and financial situation of the family.
The peculiarities of interaction of population mobility by financial position with the attitude and readiness for business is defined.
ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE OF ENTEROTOXIGENIC ESCHERICHIA COLI STRAINS ISOLATED FROM ABY LAGOON IN IVORY COAST
Authors: Ollo KAMBIRE , Ama Antoinette ADINGRA , Konan Mathurin YAO , Andrée Emmanuelle SIKA , Simplice DJEKE , Rose KOFFI-NEVRY
Published: October 2019

The aim of the present research was to assess the resistance to antibiotitcs of enterotoxigenic Escherchia coli (ETEC) from surface water, sediment, crab and fish. The genes (elt and est) of ETEC were assessed by duplex PCR using specif primers. The antimicrobial resistance of the isolates was conducted according to the method of disc diffusion on Mueller Hinton agar. Fifty six (56) isolates were identified as ETEC strains. The resistant were 9.7% for amoxicillin, 3.3 % for amoxicillin / clavulanic acid, 19.4% for chloramphenicol, 1.7% for nalidixic acid and 13% for tetracycline. No resistance of the strains was observed with the different antibiotics: imipenem, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, aztreonam, gentamicin and colistin. The presence of antibiotic-resistant strains of E. coli indicates that other antibiotic-resistant fecal bacteria may be present.
FISSION YEAST SCHIZOSACCHAROMYCES POMBE AS A MODEL SYSTEM FOR ULTRASTRUCTURAL INVESTIGATIONS USING TRANSMISSION ELECTRON MICROSCOPY
Authors: Ďúranová Hana , Požgajová Miroslava , Novotová Marta , Lukáč Norbert , Kňažická Zuzana
Published: October 2019

The unicellular fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe (S. pombe) has become a prominent model system to elucidate a various range of biological processes which are highly conserved in mammalian cells. Ultrastructure of the cells related to the organelle morphology is useful in the generation of the comprehensive overview of the cell function. Transmission electron microscopy provides a unique tool to study cell architecture under physiological conditions, as well as ultrastructural changes of the cells due to toxic or beneficial effects of diverse additives. In recent years, S. pombe has also proved to be a suitable cell system for transmission electron microscopy investigations. In the current study, general features of S. pombe are described. In addition, conventional specimen preparation technique and the important discoveries of cell architecture emerging from transmission electron microscopy studies of S. pombe are summarized.
PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES OF STARCH FROM PHILIPPINE EDIBLE CANNA (Canna indica L.) RHIZOMES
Authors: Fatima C. Algar Ara , B.Umali Aiza , Rodrigo P. Tayobong Ryan
Published: October 2019

Philippine edible canna (Canna indica L.), an underutilized crop in the Philippines, was utilized to produce starch to address the increasing demand and limited sources of starch. Starch was produced from the canna rhizomes using the wet method. The physicochemical and functional properties of the extracted Canna starch were then evaluated and compared with the commercially available and most often used cornstarch and potato starch. The non-starch components (moisture content, ash, crude fat, crude protein and reducing sugars) were determined and found to be within the range for good quality starches according to international standards. The canna starch granules were oblong shaped and were larger in size (59.29μm) compared to potato and corn starch granules. The swelling (76.33°C) and bursting temperatures (79.33°C), solubility in water (9.81 %), and water binding capacity (6.63 g/g) were also evaluated. It has an amylose content of 35.99% and found to form a hard gel with a least gelling concentration of 8.10%, gel clarity of 13.03 %, and consistency of 0.47 cm/s. With these properties, canna starch can be used in confectioneries, noodle-making, and as thickeners in soups and sauces.
INTEGRATED DISEASE MANAGEMENT OF BULL’S EYE PATHOGEN INFECTING LYCOPERSICON ESCULENTUM (TOMATO)
Authors: Sadana Deepti , Didwania Nidhi
Published: October 2019

Early blight disease in Lycopersicon esculentum (Tomato) caused by Alternaria solani is a disease posing economical threat to tomato cultivation worldwide. The efficacy of fifteen plant extracts (Polyalthia longifolia, Azadirachta indica, Datura stramonium, Ocimum sanctum, Calotropis procera, Crotalaria juncea, Eucalyptus obliqua, Cassia fistula Agele marmelos, Croton bonplonadium, Pergularia daemia, Cleome viscose, Phyllanthus amarus, Bauhinia purpurea and Euphorbia hirta), five Trichoderma harzianum strains (T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5) and seven de oiled cakes (neem cake, castor cake, karanj cake, mustard cake, groundnut cake, salmeal cake and mahua cake) were investigated in vitro and in vivo conditions. In laboratory conditions, all the treatments inhibited the mycelium of A. solani. T5 strain of Trichoderma harzianum (81%), Eucalyptus obliqua (80.7% at 15% concentration) among plant extracts and karanj cake (48.6% at 10% concentration) among de oiled cakes recorded maximum mycelium inhibition of the pathogen. Pot culture experiments were further conducted to check the combined effect of selected plant extracts and de oiled cakes (from laboratory conditions) with Trichoderma harzianum. All the three compatible constituents were further evaluated in the field conditions. The combination of T5 + Eucalyptus obliqua + karanj cake recorded maximum inhibition of (59.8%) against A. solani and was comparable with fungicide mancozeb (71.8%). Foliar spray application of tomato plants with all the combined constituents has significantly reduced the early blight infection as compared to untreated control. Thus, it could be concluded that the synergistic effect of combined constituents may be an efficacious treatment against Alternaria solani as an invulnerable option to synthetic agrochemicals.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A NOVEL AGAR-DEGRADING BACTERIUM, Microbacterium barkeri sp. SELA 4, FROM SOIL ENRICHED WITH LABORATORY AGAR
Authors: Parashar Shomini , Kumar Narendra
Published: October 2019

An agar-degrading bacterium, designated as strain SELA 4, was isolated from agriculture soil enriched with laboratory agar. The isolated strain was Gram-positive, rod-shaped, aerobic bacterium with off-white colonies showing marked depression on Mineral Salt Agar (MSA) medium. A similarity search was done based on its 16S r DNA sequence and the analysis revealed that the strain SELA 4 shared 99% similarity with the genus Microbacterium, showing its affiliation with Microbacterium barkeri strain which is known to be famous as biocontrol agents. On the basis of results obtained after biochemical analysis, physiological and phylogenetic analysis this strain was named Microbacterium barkeri sp. SELA 4. The strain SELA 4 is able to utilize agar as the only carbon source when grown at 37oC, 5 pH and produced the enzyme, β-agarase. Highest activity of 2.04 U/ml was observed at 1.5% agar concentration in the growth media. The enzyme activity at 37oC was 2.09 U/ml and at 5 pH was 1.96 U/ml respectively. Initially, the activity was qualitatively determined by iodine clear zone assay and later confirmed by activity staining. Activity staining showed the secretion of agarase enzyme by the strain whose molecular weight was found approximately 55.6 kDa. The enzyme hydrolysis product of agar was analyzed using Thin Layer Chromatography, indicating that the agarase enzyme from SELA 4 was β agarase which is known for cleaving agarose into Neoagarohexaose as the final product.
EFFECT OF TAURINE ADMINSTRATIONON THE STRUCTURE OF RABBIT TESTES
Authors: Kováč JÃ¡n , Kročková JiÅina , Tvrdá Eva
Published: October 2019

The aim of this work was to analyze the effect of taurine (TAU) on the microscopic structure of rabbit testes, focusing on individual parameters of the seminiferous tubules. We used 5 months old sexually mature male rabbits, which were divided into four experimental groups. Rabbits from the experimental groups E1, E2, and E3 received taurine dissolved in drinking water (doses 321.675 mg/rabbit/day, 643.35 mg/rabbit/day and 965.025 mg/rabbit/day) for four weeks. To compare the results of our experiment a control group of rabbits (KK) was created without any TAU administration. We analyzed the following morphometric parameters: the diameter of the seminiferous tubules (μm), the height of the epithelium and the diameter of the lumen of the seminiferous tubules (μm), the area (μm2) and the perimeter (μm) of the seminiferous tubules. Based on our results, we have found that the oral administration of TAU caused a significant increase (P
BIOCONVERSION OF CRUDE GLYCEROL INTO REUTERIN BY LACTOBACILLI ISOLATED FROM SILAGE
Authors: J. González Marcela , Olivera Jorge , Chilibroste Pablo , Reginensi Stella
Published: October 2019

Heterofermentative lactobacilli were isolated from sorghum and maize silage, and their ability to produce the antimicrobial compound reuterin (3-hydroxypropionaldehyde, 3-HPA) was investigated. Additionally, reuterin production from crude and partially purified biodiesel-derived glycerol was evaluated as an alternative to the utilization of these by-products. Only two out of 148 lactobacilli isolated produced reuterin in the presence of glycerol. The gene encoding a subunit of glycerol dehydratase was detected by PCR in isolates SO8 and SO23, identified as Lactobacillus reuteri by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Levels of reuterin produced by these two isolates and strain L. reuteri DSM 17938, used as control, were different. For each bacteria, the amount of reuterin detected from biodiesel-derived glycerol was comparable with that obtained from aqueous solution of pure glycerol. Among silage isolates, L. reuteri SO23 yielded the highest levels of reuterin production. In addition, cell-free supernatants revealed inhibitory activity against silage spoilage microorganisms like spore-forming bacteria, yeast and mould. L. reuteri SO23 proved to be a valuable candidate for use of crude glycerol and its bioconversion to reuterin. Addition of glycerol together with reuterin-producing lactobacilli strains could represent a good alternative as silage biopreservant and help optimize profit in biodiesel production.
Stationary phase selects predominantly ciprofloxacin resistant strains of Salmonella Typhimurium with mutation in gyrA
Authors: Kamila ÄuriÅ¡ovÃ¡ , Lucia BiroÅ¡ovÃ¡ , Kristína LÃ©pesovÃ¡
Published: October 2019

This study was focused on determination the mutation frequency leading to ciprofloxacin resistance as well as mechanism of resistance to ciprofloxacin and changes in the ability to form a biofilm at various growth stages of S. Typhimurium.
The mutation frequency leading to resistance (resistance index RI) was expressed as the mean number of resistant colonies divided by the mean of the total number of viable cells per culture. The resistance index (RI) was increased linearly over time and it had the highest value in the death phase. The mutations in the Quinolone Resistance Determining sources Regions (QRDR) of gyrA in S. Typhimurium strain were identified. All mutations identified in this study were substitutions in the QRDR of the gyrA gene, Serine 83 (Ser 83) and Aspartate 87 (Asp 87). The Ser 83 mutations were found already in exponential phase and their occurrence increased at other growth stages. Point mutations in Asp-87 were found only in later growth stages. The Ser 83 mutations occurred in all resistant strain obtained from stationary phase, with substitutions by Phenylalanine (Phe). Detection of gyrA mutations was carried out by AS-PCR-RFLP assay. This occurrence correlated with the increased expression of efflux pumps in mutant strains. The highest over-expression of efflux pump was found in resistant strains obtained from 96 h of cultivation (death phase). Ciprofloxacin resistant mutants formed a biofilm to a greater extent compared to the parental strain. Our data strengthen opinion that stressful environment conditions selects for antibiotic resistant mutants and in case of Salmonella spp. could contribute to improved ability to form biofilm.
METHODOLOGICAL APOPROACH EXEMPLIFIED BY LACTOCOCCI: OPTIMIZATION OF BIOTECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES BY MEANS OF ELISA VIA LOCALIZATION OF THE TARGET BIOPOLYMER AND SELECTION OF DURATION OF CULTURE GROWTH AND MEDIA COMPOSITION PROVIDING MAXIMUM YEALD
Authors: Kiseleva Elena , Mikhailopulo Konstantin , Novik Galina
Published: October 2019

Enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) is suitable as a method for detection and quantification of bacterial biopolymers at condition that they have antigenic properties. Using of ELISA allows optimizing biotechnological processes via selection of the strain producing the biolimer of interest, localization of the biopolymer and selection of duration of culture growth and media composition providing maximum yeald. We elaborated the methodology for studing the time dependence of specific concentration (Csp) (calculated per cell) of the biopolymer of interest in cell fractions and culture media. The methodology includes four points: (i) selecting of bacteria applicable as objects of study; (ii) obtaining, preliminary preparation and quantification of cell fractions and specimens of culture media; (iii) design of ELISA suitable for studing Csp of intracellular antigens (contained in cell-wall free fraction), cell wall antigens and secretory antigens; (iv) methods for converting of ELISA data into Csp (in conventional units) and explanation of the results. We present the methodology using 4 strains of lactococci and rabbit polyclonal antibodies (PAb) against genus-specific antigens of Lасtococcus lactis subsp. cremoris BIM B-493D (PAbanti-Ll 493D) as an example. We show that Csp of lactococcal antigens in cell fractions and culture media depends on strain, media composition and duration of culture growth. Distribution of antigens between cell fractions and media and time-dependance of Csp is unpredictable and for each strain/media should be determined individually. The methodology is suitable for any bacterium and any well-defined antigen under the condition that either PAb or mouse monoclonal antibodies specific for this antigen will be used. The methodology will find an application in biotechnology and research studies.
La dramaturgia costarricense ¿contemporánea? escrita por mujeres: un balance historiográfico del periodo 2000-2017
Authors: Amador Rojas Elvia
Published: October 2019

Este texto se propone realizar un balance de la manera en que ha sido estudiada, entre el 2000 y el 2017, la dramaturgia costarricense escrita por mujeres, un lapso que permite enmarcar la relevancia del papel de la mujer en la producción/construcción de discursividad y de sentido. Donde la escritura teatral nos cuestiona sobre lo contemporáneo y lo femenino de estas construcciones sociales.
The Paradox of Politics Revisited
Authors: Kostecki Wojciech
Published: October 2019

The conviction that particularly political sphere abounds in permanent paradoxes, that they constitute its inherent attributes, was already familiar to political philosophy classics, although they expressed them in different ways. “The paradoxical mix of order and chaos compelled the Greeks to seek out more creative, inclusive and reflexive modes of thought and action”. One of them, Socrates, talked about “the true political craft”, that is a rejection of politics, and at the same time, its admission. The paradoxical features of politics that arise from human nature were examined by Thomas Hobbes. Jean-Jacques Rousseau observed the paradoxes that underlie the act of free will declaration. Carl Schmitt paid attention to the internal paradox of democracy, pointing out that despite the conditions of declared citizens equality, the policy is dominated by inequalities deriving from other spheres, particularly economy.
Religion and Democracy: Points of Agreement, Points of Controversy
Authors: Marczewska–Rytko Maria
Published: October 2019

Introductorily, it should be observed that the discussed problem’s significance is increasingly pressing as our interest drifts towards societies dominated by great, universalizing religions Islam being only one of them. From the above, a question arises of whether the notions of religion and democracy, as mentioned in the title, are reconcilable within a single order in the first place. In his deliberations, Bohdan Chwedeńczyk inclines to the view that three types of relations may be distinguished in this respect: religion favours democracy; is indifferent to democracy; or is harmful to democracy. The discussion of the above opinion has, respectively, developed threefold. In one point of view, religion is by nature contradictory to the democratic order, it is in a sense its direct opposite. In other words, we face a choice of opting either for religion or democracy. Supporters of an alternative viewpoint claim that in the long run, a democratic system is not viable without the basis of notions such as religion, and therefore religion does play a vital part in the social order. It serves members of the public by satisfying those of their needs that do not belong to the scope of duties performed by the state and its institutions. Finally, the third approach basically acknowledges the fact that no definitive claims can be made as to the possibility of agreement between religion and democracy. I must admit that the latter is closest to my personal stance in this respect. Naturally, through careful selection of examples, arguments to support the first or the second of the mentioned opinions can be easily produced. There have been numerous examples of academic and journalistic articles advocating one of the clear-cut standpoints, which seem not to leave much room for discussion. However, the issue becomes far more multifarious when taking into account the complexity of religious and political issues analysed in both theoretical and practical perspective.
International Security in Strategic Concepts of Powers (USA and Russia) – an Analysis Attempt
Authors: Mierzejewski Donat
Published: October 2019

An essential element of international security policy shaping are documents of strategic or doctrinal character. They define the main assumptions of state security politics in the context of changes of global character. Undoubtedly this process is influenced by strategic concepts of two world powers: the USA and Russian Federation, both in the cold war past as well as now – main agents and creators of world security policy. this article will analyze the National Security Strategy of the USA, the Foreign Policy Concept of the Russian Federation, the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation and the War Doctrine of the Russian Federation.
Book Review: Jacek Poniedziałek, Postemigrational Creation of a Regional Identity. Study of Contemporary Meaning of the Warmińskomazurski Region, Toruń: Wydawnictwo Adam Marszałek, 2011, pp. 435
Authors: Lutrzykowski Alfred
Published: October 2019

Jacek Poniedziałek’s book is devoted to issues extremely important and current. Exploration of the social identity formation process, including a regional identity, has now a great importance not only from a cognitive point of view. Transformational changes in Poland after 1989 meant not only profound changes in the system of public authorities and the economic system. They also had a signifi cant impact on the consciousness of Polish society and its attitude towards the state, power apparatus, and the most important problems of collective life. Extremely important direction of changes in the public authority model became a more and more articulated desire for decentralization and deconcentration of unified and the indivisible sphere of state power so far.
Completing the Translation
Authors: McCormack Robert T. , Hayes Daniel F.
Published: October 2019

Comprehensive standards and guidelines for generating and reporting laboratory results are needed, especially as related to the translation of biology to precision medicine. This commentary focuses on the topic, highlighting a new study that investigated laboratories reporting next-generation sequencing results to clinicians.
Wheat straw biorefinery for agricultural waste valorisation
Authors: Ghaffar Seyed Hamidreza
Published: October 2019

This study justifies strategies for a new concept of agricultural waste management prior to biorefinery, based on comprehensive materials science investigations. Efficient pretreatments for the extraction, separation and fractionation of agricultural waste in conjunction with understanding of the details of its microstructure and properties can be essential for high-efficiency biorefinery. The information in this study will serve as a valuable and fundamental basis for researchers and industries in the sector of straw biomass biorefinery. In order to achieve the maximum efficiency possible in agricultural waste valorisation, it is crucial to understand that not all parts of the straw are equally valuable and can be treated in the same biorefinery process. In this study, the wheat straw stem, which is composed of nodes and internodes, has been shown to have distinct properties and characteristics. Separation of these anatomical parts before the biorefinery process presents a unique area for future research investment, as it can lead to higher performance of the intended product. For example, the node has higher extractives and ash content, which prove to be a diminishing factor for biocomposite or bioenergy production.
Precificação de ativos: análise do fator book-to-market após o deemed cost
Authors: Campos Octávio Valente , Colares Ana Carolina Vasconcelos , Takamatsu Renata Turola , Francisco José Roberto de Souza
Published: October 2019

A determinação do custo de capital próprio é um assunto extensivamente pesquisado e discutido em finanças, possibilitando o desenvolvimento de novos estudos correlatos. No mercado brasileiro, Noda, Martelanc e Kayo (2016) obtiveram resultados discordantes dos encontrados por Fama e French (1995, 1996), indicando que tais divergências podem ser explicadas pela elevada taxa de inflação. Assim, esta pesquisa busca analisar se após o deemed cost - como meio de dirimir os efeitos da inflação - os retornos obtidos pelas carteiras construídas com base no índice book-to-market (PL/VM) são estatisticamente diferentes dos observados pelo Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) e pelo indicador lucro/preço (L/P). Por meio dos resultados foi possível concluir que o índice L/P não se apresentou como mais efetivo para reconhecer ações “baratas” ou “de valor”, frente ao índice book-to-market. Estes resultados são divergentes dos encontrados por Noda et al. (2016) e coincidem com os resultados encontrados por Fama e French (1995, 1996), evidenciando que o modelo tradicional de três fatores explica os retornos das carteiras construídas com base no book-to-market. Isso posto, pode-se indicar que a alta inflação histórica do mercado brasileiro, em específico para as firmas cujos ativos são mais antigos, faz com que as informações contábeis das entidades sejam menos significativas. Contudo, mensurações como as realizadas pelo deemed cost podem suavizar o impacto da inflação, concedendo maior representatividade para as informações contábeis, evidenciado assim, que práticas como o custo atribuído exercem influência nas expectativas dos usuários, conforme também verificado por Demaria e Dufour (2007) e Cerqueira, Rezende, Dalmácio e Silva (2013).
La eficacia de los organismos de control de etica pública y anticorrupción
Authors: Buteler Alfonso
Published: October 2019

El trabajo se dividirá en tres partes. En primer término, efectuaremos una breve introducción sobre la temática de la corrupción procurando destacar algunos datos empíricos relevantes, teniendo en cuenta siempre que la falta de ética trae corrupción.

Luego, abordaremos, específicamente, el control efectuado por dos organismos especializados en materia de corrupción y de ética pública como son la Fiscalía de Investigaciones Administrativas y la Oficina Anticorrupción a los fines de explicar sus competencias y ámbitos de actuación. Por último, realizaremos algunas reflexiones finales a modo de conclusión.
A defesa dos usuários de serviços públicos prestados por entes do terceiro setor
Authors: Gruendling Juruena Cynthia , Blanchet Luiz Alberto
Published: October 2019

O Código de defesa dos usuários de serviços públicos (Lei 13.460/2017) foi editado após anos de uma lacuna legislativa existente, visto que o artigo 37, §3º da Constituição de 1988 estabelecia que seria previsto por lei a participação dos cidadãos na Administração Pública. A partir da análise de alguns contornos e inovações trazidas pela legislação, verificou-se se esta é aplicável aos usuários de serviços públicos prestados por entidades do terceiro setor. Nessa senda, o problema de pesquisa que se perquiriu é de se há uma proteção para os usuários de serviços públicos que são prestados por entes do terceiro setor, e até que ponto há esse amparo legal. A metodologia de pesquisa adotada foi o método hipotético-dedutivo, onde partiu-se da hipótese de que a legislação de defesa dos usuários de serviços públicos seria aplicável aos usuários de serviços públicos prestados por entidades do terceiro setor, porém, de maneira indeterminada quanto à total ou parcial aplicação.
Os novos constitucionalismos
Authors: Coelho Larissa
Published: October 2019

Para compreender esta mutação, a questão que direciona o estudo corresponde ao interrogativo sobre qual a teoria da constituição se adequada à nossa realidade. Contudo, para que possamos responder à questão é necessário de antemão verificarmos em que consiste o nosso constitucionalismo atual, ou seja, como se desenha a sua teoria, uma vez que como afirma Gomes Canotilho em seu manual Direito Constitucional e Teoria da Constituição, não existe hoje “[…] uma situação clássica em sede da teoria da Constituição”, entendendo-se por “[…] situação clássica aquela em que se verifica o acordo duradouro em termos de categorias teóricas, aparelhos conceituais e métodos de conhecimento”. Fundamentando, de acordo com a visão do citado autor, no fato de que nos encontramos em verdade diante de uma “[…] divergência profunda quer quanto aos problemas constitucionais da contemporaneidade quer quanto às respostas dadas a esses problemas […]
Sociedade de risco, sustentabilidade para gestão e princípio da precaução
Authors: Gomes Magno Federici , Mesquita Leonardo Paiva de
Published: October 2019

O presente artigo analisou a sociedade industrial de risco e os riscos que ela mesma produz. Por conseguinte, o surgimento do princípio da precaução no contexto de incertezas e avanço da degradação ambiental, sua utilização no direito nacional e estrangeiro, bem como a análise do elemento da incerteza científica. A metodologia utilizada foi a jurídico-teórica e o procedimento de raciocínio o dedutivo, com técnica de pesquisa bibliográfica. Por fim, concluiu-se pela necessidade de ultrapassar vários argumentos privatistas de ordem econômica e social para, diante do risco, resguardar a proteção ao meio ambiente, através do uso do princípio da precaução.
A Política Migratória Brasileira para Refugiados e a Imigração Haitiana
Authors: Silva Cesar Augusto , Moraes Thays Mello
Published: October 2019

O foco deste trabalho é a crescente imigração haitiana em direção ao Brasil, tendo como objetivo associar essa grande emigração à violação maciça de direitos humanos e à incapacidade do Estado de garantir segurança e estabilidade à sua população, e não somente aos fatores econômicos e ambientais como analisa o Estado brasileiro para lhes negar a condição de refugiados. É analisada e contestada neste texto a medida adotada pelas autoridades brasileiras de conceder visto humanitário aos haitianos, de forma provisória, quando parece evidente que a violação maciça de direitos humanos no país é um dos critérios da Declaração de Cartagena de 1984 e da própria lei brasileira. Conclui-se a respeito de como o país se posiciona perante a emigração haitiana, levantando hipóteses de política externa do porque não o faz no âmbito da compreensão da totalidade dos direitos humanos internacionais.