bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green GDP and Sustainable Development in Malaysia
Authors: Vaghefi Negin , Siwar Chamhuri , Aziz Sarah
Published: May 2015

Sustainability has become an important concept in economic growth and development in the world. Malaysia, as a rapidly developing economy in Asia, has been able to achieve a positive economic growth; however, there is a big question: is it on a sustainable growth path? Due to weaknesses of traditional GDP in reflecting sustainability path, Green GDP as an indicator of sustainability could be implemented with adjustments in calculations. This paper aims to calculate the Green GDP for Malaysia. This measure will almost give policy makers a more arguable estimate for the area of environmental challenges. This paper highlights the role of natural resources depletion and environmental damages in sustainable development of the country. Green GDP is associated with some uncertainties such as lack of comprehensive calculations in estimating data and difficulties in setting the price of natural resources. These uncertainties and how Malaysia would be able to implement more accurate Green GDP in future were also discussed.
Biotransportation of Heavy Metals in Eichhornia crassipes (MART.) Solms. Using X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Soni Hiren , Thomas Sheju
Published: May 2015

Biomonitoring study of heavy metals was done at pilgrimage freshwater ecosystems of Central Gujarat, India, to ascertain the degree of 17 metals. The study focused on the assessment of available metals in Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms., collected from sacred palustrine habitat (Dakor Sacred Wetland – DSW) of Gujarat, to be used as a biomonitor (active) species, in comparison with sediment (abiotic monitor) for metal pollution. The results were obtained by analyzing elemental composition of rhizome, tuber, stem and leaves of native aquatic freshwater macrophyte (Eichhornia crassipes) along with bottom sediments for 17 heavy metals (Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Br, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Nb, Ba, Pb, Sm, Ir) using Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (WD-XRF) (Omania Software). The highest concentrations were observed in rhizome (12) in assay species of aquatic macrophyte, followed by tuber and stem (10 each), and least content was observed in leaf (8). Toxic heavy metals (Ti, Mn, Fe, Zn, Br, Sr, Zr, Pb) were detected, prone to cardiac, respiratory, musculo-skeletal and hepatic interferences in indigenous human clusters in and around studied wetland. Eichhornia crassipes was proved to be the best phytoaccumaltor species for heavy metals, exhibited by highest translocation factor for Zn, Sr, Zr, and Pb, and bioaccumulation factor for Mn, Rb, Sr and Fe metals. Present research indicates that E. crassipes (Mart.) Solms. is better remediator species for mobility of Pb, Zr and Sr metals. Thus, Eichhornia crassipes can be used for an effective abatement of contaminated aquatic sites.
A Framework for Green Growth and Socio-Economic Development in Malaysia
Authors: Vaghefi Negin , Siwar Chamhuri , Aziz Sarah
Published: May 2015

The green growth or green economy concept presents opportunities for more inclusive growth while protecting the environment. Malaysia has experienced rapid economic growth with gross domestic product annual growth rate averaged 4.1% over the period of 2004-2013. However, the rapid economic development may lead to declining focus on social equality. In Malaysia, although poverty has been reduced in trend, it is still a challenging issue, especially in rural areas. Greening the economy could integrate the social equality, as a pillar of sustainable development, with economic and environmental priorities. Indeed, it may improve the human well-being while significantly reducing environmental scarcity. A green economy could help to indicate the value of natural capital as a provider of human well being and a source of new jobs. This paper attempts to discuss on how green economy could improve the livelihood security and poverty eradication in Malaysia. It also seeks to understand what a socially transition to a green economy may look like and key interventions needed to achieve it.
Physical and Biochemical Characteristics of Sharhabiel Reservoir water, NW Jordan
Authors: El-Radaideh Nazem
Published: May 2015

The Article has been Retracted
Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Fungi Inoculation on Growth and Uptake of Mineral Nutrition in Ipomoea aquatica
Authors: Halder Milton , Shahjalal Khan Muhammad , S A , Akhter Samina , Chandra Joarda Jagadish
Published: May 2015

A green house experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of arbuscular mycorrhiza inoculation on plant growth and uptake of mineral nutrition in Ipomoea aquatica considering the objective of using environmental friendly biofertilizer instead of chemical fertilizer. A common leafy vegetable plant Ipomoea aquatica was grown with mycorrhiza and without mycorrhiza for 42 days. After harvest the plants were analyzed for mineral nutrition concentration. Plant fresh weight, dry weight, macronutrient (P, K, Mg, Na), micronutrient (Fe, Mn, Zn) concentration was higher in arbuscular mycorrhiza inoculated plant than non-mycorrhiza inoculated plant. For sustainable agriculture, introducing biofertilizer by using arbuscular mycorrhiza inoculation would be one of the most efficient techniques for replacing chemical fertilizer to meet the nutrient deficiency in nutrient deficient soils of Bangladesh.
Effects of Boiling Water Temperature on Biofilm Formation in PTI Community Potable Water
Authors: Fadairo E , Otite-Douglas M
Published: May 2015

This study investigated the effects of boiling temperature and associated physico-chemical parameters on the Petroleum Training Institute potable water and the possibility of biofilm formation in its delivery systems. A total of 25 potable water samples were used for this study. The environmental parameters investigated were pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solid (TSS), dissolved oxygen (DO1), / DO5, salinity, resistivity, total coliform bacteria (as an indicator of possible biofilm presence in the distribution system) and biofilm . An overall prevalence of <1 of the total coliform bacteria was observed in the plus-boiling and minus-boiling potable water sample, except for the female hostel which showed moderate stain for the qualitative biofilm test. For the minus-boiling water sample, pH values were between 5.04±0.47 to 6.82±0.48; Total suspended solids ranged between 0.09±0.05-0.17±0.02, total dissolved solid ranged between 4.07±0.73 to 5.58±0.70, conductivity values ranged between 8.02±0.90 to 11.54±1.67, dissolved oxygen ranged between 1.97±0.26 to 3.12 ±0.13, the DO5 ranged between 1.91±0.32 to 2.72± 0.29 while resistivity ranged between 7.79±0.13 to 10.88±0.18. Values for the Plus-boiling and filtered samples showed a pH range of 6.02±0.26 to 6.95±0.26; conductivity 7.21±0.10 to 9.88±0.67; DO ranged between 1.01±0.14 to 2.08±0.35, DO 5 was 1.02±0.02 to 2.01±0.38, TSS and TDS ranged between 0.02±0.001, 3.74±0.62 to 0.03±0.002 and 4.95±0.42 respectively while resistivity ranged between 1.02±0.11 to 1.98±0.16. For all parameters analyzed, values obtained falls within the WHO limit for potable water except for the qualitative biofilm test on FSH minus-boiling water sample which gave moderate stain with 0.1% crystal violet stain and the pH values which fall below WHO acceptable limits. Boiling and filtration of potable water irrespective of the source is campaigned from this study in order to enhance the prevention and management of water borne diseases within the institute community.
Environmentally Sustainable Development of Urban Settlements In India: A Framework For Development of Indicators
Authors: Sarkar Shuvojit , Bhattacharyya T
Published: May 2015

There have been numerous efforts worldwide at various scales (global/national/regional/local) in the field of development of sustainable development indicators, focusing on either one or all of its various dimensions, following the Rio Summit in 1992. However, India has fallen behind in the area of development of Sustainable Development Indicators and none of the Indian cities figure in the review of the IISD Compendium, the most comprehensive database to date to keep track of Indicators efforts. A review of the initiatives by several international agencies and countries in formulation of the sustainability indicators though provide necessary guidance, the final framework needs to address the urban sustainability issues in the Indian context. The objective of this paper is to develop a set of indicators at macro and micro level for environmentally sustainable development of the urban settlements in India. It involves recommending an approach, a methodology and a structural framework for deriving the indicators set at various levels focusing on resource dynamics of urban settlements. Domain based classification has been followed wherein domains have been identified based on essential natural and built in resources. Further, for each domain environmental sustainability determinants have been recognised and based on them multilevel indicators have been identified with a goal of greater livability and quality of life. A way forward has been given for the evaluation of indicators for formulation of policies at national level and action plan at local level with stakeholder’s participation.
Change in Fishing Patterns in Jammu & Kashmir Provinces of J&K – A Comparative Study
Authors: Qayoom Imtiyaz , Balkhi Masood , Bhat Bilal
Published: May 2015

Jammu and Kashmir serves a congenial habitat for variety of fish species due to large number of cold water resources which has paved way for the development of fisheries sector in the state. The state has crossed 20.0 thousand tonnes of fish production because of modern aquacultural practices implied at both governmental and private levels. Kashmir province is a leading producer of fishes contributing more than 80% of the total production of the state while as Jammu on the other hand has also emerged as a major producer of animal protein through fisheries sector. The fish production data of four decades reflects increasing trend of production in all commercially important species of both the provinces. However the statistical models forecasting the future production provide an idea about the growth patterns in fishes. In this paper, growth pattern of three different fish species (Trout, Mirror carp and Country fish) from Kashmir province and various fishes from Jammu province (collectively named as Jammu fish) of the state was assessed using fish production data from 1956-57 to 2011-12. Forecasting of fish production was made on the basis of the best fitted statistical models. Results showed that Kashmir province shows overall compound growth of 4.2% against 7.9% of increased compound growth rate of fish production of Jammu province since 1956-57. Cubic model was found to be the best fitted model for all the species in both the regions. However, when future fish production of the state is taken into consideration, the statistical models indicated a decreasing trend in the overall fish production of both the provinces. Besides, the matter of concern is that the demand of 70,000 thousand tonne consumption of fish protein in the state which is a milestone yet to be achieved.
Economic Evaluation of Different Size of Biogas Plants In Chhattisgarh (India)
Authors: Shailendra Kumar , Mishra B , Khardiwar M , Patel S , Sayyad F
Published: May 2015

In order to determine the working efficiency and economical size of biogas plants in respect of house hold cattle and family members, a study was carried out during 2007-08 in Chhattisgarh State, India. Fifteen blocks were selected randomly covering 117 biogas plants. Out of them, 99 plants (85 %) were found in working condition for which economic analysis was carried out. Survey results revealed that economically different sizes of biogas plants i.e. 2- 8 m3 were useful in the study area. On an average, the whole initial investment could be recovered in an about 3- 8 years. The annual income of different size of biogas plants from 2 m3, 3 m3, 4 m3, 6 m3 and 8 m3 will be Rs 3620, Rs 5273.6, Rs 4215, Rs 4565 and Rs 4612, respectively. The cost of operations of different size of biogas plants (2-8 m3) were observed in the range 2.73- 4.0 Rs/h. The size of most economical biogas plant was 3 m3 (B/C= 1.23) followed by 2 m3 (B/C= 1.06).
Water Quality Index (WQI) Approach to Evaluate the Water Quality of Certain Tank Waters of Tiptur Taluk in Tumkur District, Karnataka, India
Authors: Shivanna A , Nagendrappa G
Published: May 2015

Evaluation of water quality using different parameters is complex and not easy to understand as it is variable by variable discussion. Water quality index is a single value indicator used to evaluate and present the water quality to the public and the related management in precise and understandable manner. Measured values of eleven physico-chemical parameters namely, pH, TDS, TH, Cl-,NO3-,SO42-,HCO3-, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ and K+ were used to calculate WQI of six tanks in Tiptur taluk. The study was taken up to understand the impact of agriculture run off from the respective catchment area, domestic sewage input and human activities which contribute to pollution load. During the investigation period from December-2010 to November-2012, it was found that the overall water quality index of the studied tanks ranged from 46.72 to 92.22 indicating the quality ranging from good quality to very poor quality. Values of variables TDS, HCO3-, Na+ and K+exceeded their desirable limits of BIS/ICMR in Karadi, Halkurke and Honnavalli tanks which depend on rain water. Waters in these tanks were of moderately poor to very poor quality. Waters of Canal fed tanks were of good to moderately poor quality.
Resource Utilization Pattern with Special Reference to Fodder and Fuel in Village Shahdarah Sharief, District Rajouri (J&K)
Authors: Qureshi Simab , Akhter Shahima , Malaviya Piyush
Published: May 2015

The present study was conducted to understand fodder and fuel utilization pattern in village Shahdarah Sharief, Rajouri, India. The common fodder types used were green fodder, top feeds, crop residues and tree leaves. The green fodder consumption was found to be highest (16.83 kg/day/family) while top feed was least utilized (1.10 kg/day/family). The major fuel types fulfilling the energy demand of local people in study area were wood, LPG and dung cake. LPG constituted the major share of consumption (10.7x105 kcal/month) while dung cake consumption was least (3.1x105 kcal/month). The total fuel and fodder consumption in study area was 17.2x105 kcal/month and 36.65 kg/day/family, respectively. Livestock population of study area was comprised of cow, bullock, buffalo, he-buffalo, goat and sheep with highest share of buffaloes (43.38%) and lowest of he-buffaloes (4.42%).
Diet of Tadpoles of Microhyla ornata (Dumeril and Bibron,1841) from a Freshwater System in Rosekandy Tea Estate, Cachar, Assam and Significance of Conservation of Aquatic Habitats
Authors: Dey Mithra , Goswami Shweta
Published: May 2015

Anuran tadpoles are gregarious in nature and knowledge of food and feeding behavior of the tadpoles is very essential for their successful breeding and survival. Dramatic declines in amphibian populations have been noted since 1980 from all over the world and are thus perceived to be one of the most critical threats to global biodiversity. Microhyla ornata commonly known as Ornamented Pygmy Frog, belongs to Family- Microhylidae and is widespread species occurring throughout South Asian countries like Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka as well as in Japan. Considering the occurrence of tea plantation in the region and the presence of aquatic bodies in tea estates it is necessary to know the feeding habit of the anuran tadpoles and impact of unavailability of suitable food items which will affect the survival and completion of life cycle of the tadpoles. In the present study it was observed that Microhyla ornata tadpoles feed mainly on various algal (25 genera) and detrital material. Hence, it may be concluded that aquatic habitats must be conserved and maintained so that conservation of anurans can be ensured.
Human-Wildlife Conflict In the Forest Villages of Barak Valley, Assam, India
Authors: Dutta H , Singha H , Dutta B , Deb P , Das A
Published: May 2015

Man and animals are frequently coming into conflicts over habitat and food requirements and this is mainly due to expanding human population and loss of natural habitats. The problem has been identified as major challenge to the governments of many countries and is significant to many human communities. Forest villages are the most potent sites for this problem as these are the places where human needs intersect with those of the wild animals. There are 104 forest villages in Barak Valley which is constituted by three districts; namely: Cachar, Hailakandi and Karimganj located in the Southern part of the Indian state of Assam. However, no proper study has yet been pursued with respect to man-wildlife conflict in these villages. Hence, present study was attempted to indentify the various wild animals which are involved in conflict in the forest villages of the region. The study revealed that there were four conflict animals; viz: jackal, civet, wild boar and monkey which were most commonly associated with the problem in these villages.
Analysis of Rainfall Probabilities for Strategic Crop Planning in Raipur District of Chhattisgarh State
Authors: Bhelawe Sanjay , Manikandan M , Khavse Rajesh , Chaudhary J , Patel S
Published: May 2015

Rainfall data of recent forty three years (1971-2013) of Labhandi station, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidhyalaya Raipur, Chhattisgarh was analysed with the method of incomplete gamma probability. The data revealed that the average rainfall of labhandi station is 1202 mm spread over 61 rainy days. Out of this 1055, 68, 53 and 27 mm received from south west monsoon (June-September), north east (October-December), summer (March-May) and winter season (January -February) respectively. Probability for receiving more than 100 mm of rainfall can be expected only at 25% probability level and that too in four weeks which is leading to the interpretation that rainfed rice production is a challenging task in this region. it has been found that at 75 per cent assured probability level rainfall of more than 200 mms can be expected only in July and August months and this rainfall is hardly sufficient for meeting the water requirement in upland situations. However at 50 per cent probability which is equivalent to average condition, cultivation of rice is possible under well water management conditions. On seasonal basis rainfall at assured probability level of 75% is not sufficient as the quantity is 795 mm rainfall in south-western monsoon season.
Estimation Of Qualitative And Quantitative Parameters Of Water In Pendra Block Of District Bilaspur
Authors: Bakshi Mohd , Uphadhyay Manish
Published: May 2015

The subject matter contains estimation of qualitative as well as quantitative parameters of water of Pendra block which includes temperature, pH, Turbidity, Alkalinity, Hardness, Chlorides, Sulphates, Dissolved Oxygen, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Total Solid content, Total Dissolved Solids from different sampling sites. The samples showed variation at different times which might be due to large amount of presence of pollutants present in the water.
Physicochemical Properties of Briquettes from Different Feed Stock
Authors: Vyas D , Sayyad F , Khardiwar M , Kumar Shailendra
Published: May 2015

This study was undertaken to evaluate the Physico-chemical properties of eight different types of biomass feed stock and their briquettes were studied among that some properties which are influence their storage and combustion properties like Equilibrium moisture content (EMC %) and Relative humidity (%). Equilibrium moisture content are found out by static equilibrium technique using aqueous glycerol solutions of different concentrations in the relative humidity (RH) range of 40 to 90 % and at ambient temperature between 25 to 37 ºC. The Equilibrium moisture content of briquettes was lower than their feedstock by about 1 – 2.5 % in all the cases ranges from 40 to 70 % RH. At higher RH above 70%, the difference was between 2 - 4%. There was no change in the shape of the briquettes at all levels of RH. This was due to higher density of briquettes. This study showed during period of high humidity, the storage of briquettes will not create any problem and will be safer as compared to their feedstock.
Performance of Laterite Soil Grains as Adsorbent in the Removal of Chromium
Authors: Syama I , Thalla Arun , Manu D
Published: May 2015

The present study aims to examine the efficiency of laterite grains (LG) and acid activated laterite grains (AALG) as an adsorbent for removal hexavalent chromium and ferric ion from synthetic wastewater, under laboratory conditions. Adsorption of hexavalent chromium and ferric ion from synthetic wastewater is examined by batch and column studies wherein it is found to be dependent on pH, Contact time, adsorbent dosage and initial adsorbate concentration. Percentage removal enhances with the increase in adsorbent dosage and with low pH, the optimal removal is achieved at pH=2. AALG is found to investigate possibility of improvement in removal efficiency of hexavalent chromium. The removal efficiency of AALG is found to be significantly higher than the efficiency obtained from LG, at pH=7. An adsorbent dosage 2g of LG is found to be optimum for removal of ferric ion with low initial concentration of 2.5 mg/L. The equilibrium adsorption data obtained from batch studies were fitted with Langmuir and freundlich isotherm for both hexavalent chromium and ferric ions. The percentage removal obtained from batch adsorption studies were found to be higher than that obtained by column studies for both the adsorbates.
Site Suitability Analysis For Willow Tree Plantation In Uttarakhand Using GIS
Authors: Vardhan Puranik , Nain A , Murty N
Published: May 2015

The objective of a present study was to evaluate the land of Uttarakhand for suitability of Willow. The study area located between latitude 28º43'N and 31º27'N and longitude 77º34'E and 81º02'E. and covers approximately 53,485 sq km. A suitability resulting from the overlay process of the identified theme layers has unique information of tree requirement on which the suitability is based. The identified theme layers include temperature (maximum, minimum and average temperature), precipitation and soil texture. All thematic layers with their associated attribute data were encoded in GIS database. Overlay operation was performed on these layers through the model developed using Model Builder module of ARC-view 3.2. The model was a result of the crop requirements and the range of input variables in the state. Model was applied to formulate the suitability classes. The results indicate that 38%, 29.3%, 13.2% and 19.5% area of the total geographical area of the state fall under the most suitable, suitable less suitable and not suitable categories, respectively for Willow plantation. On the basis of the results, it can be recommended that Willow can be grown on the larger area of Uttarakhand state, especially the wastelands can be utilized for cultivation of Willow, which will not only be beneficial for socio-economic point of view but also sequester large amount of the carbon from the atmosphere.
Rapid Bioassessment of Magura haor (Floodplain wetland), Cachar District, Assam, India using Aquatic Insects
Authors: Dalal Arpita , Gupta Susmita
Published: May 2015

Investigation on the water quality of the floodplain wetland, Magura through rapid assessment survey using aquatic insects for the four seasons had been done during 2013-14. Aquatic insects were collected from the two sites and were identified up to family level. All together 5 orders (Hemiptera, Coleoptera, Odonata, Ephemeroptera and Diptera) and 21 families had been recorded from the wetland. 17 families from site 1 (Hemiptera- 7 families, Coleoptera- 4 families, Odonata- 3 families, Ephemeroptera- 1 family and Diptera- 2 families) and 18 families from site 2 (Hemiptera- 6 families, Coleoptera- 6 families, Odonata- 2 amilies, Ephemeroptera- 1 family and Diptera- 3 families) were recorded. Four family level biotic indices- SIGNAL 2, ASPT, BMWP and FBI had been used to determine the status of the water quality. According to SIGNAL 2 and BMWP scores it was moderately polluted, whereas ASPT showed doubtful quality but FBI proved very good (site 1) and good water condition (site 2). This study revealed that only one biotic index cannot give proper justification of the water quality status of a wetland.
A Study of Maximum and Minimum Temperatures Trends at Junagadh (Saurashtra Region) of Gujarat, India
Authors: Ram Bhavin , Chinchorkar S , Khardiwar M , Sayyad F
Published: May 2015

This paper, therefore, attempts to study temporal variation in temperature over Junagadh (Saurashtra Region) of Gujarat, India, India, during the period 1980-2011. The long-term change in temperature has been evaluated by Mann–Kendall rank statistics and linear trend. An important aspect of the present study is the significant cooling trend in mean annual temperature, which is more predominant during winter season. The summer season also shows significant cooling trend due to slightly decrease in Tmax. This cooling trend in Junagadh (Saurashtra Region) Gujarat, India temperature is supported by studies conducted by other researchers (Rupa Kumar and Hingane, 1988). These authors studied the temperature for Junagadh (Saurashtra region) Gujarat, India during the period 1980-2007 and observed a cooling trend, but not significant at any level. Against this background, in the present study, temperature data during the period 1980-2011 have been studied. The result indicates significant slightly decrease in winter temperature at 0.01 level. This suggests that the last decade has witnessed a phenomenal epoch in temperature series, leading to a decreasing trend from non-significant to significant. Contrary to this, the monsoon season shows warming trend. This may be due to significant increase in the low cloud amount during this season. We are still a long way from understanding the complex interaction of many physical processes that determine the evolution of climate.
Assessment of Water Quality and Sources of Pollution in Downstream of Ukai, Tapi River (Gujarat)
Authors: Dubey Monika , Ujjania N
Published: May 2015

In the present paper an attempt has been made to study of physico-chemical parameters of downstream in Ukai, Tapi River (Gujarat). For this study the water samples were collected at monthly interval during December 2012 to November 2013 and important water quality parameters were analyzed. Study revealed that temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, chemical oxygen demand, nitrate-n, total hardness, fluoride, chloride, total alkalinity and sodium were within the permissible limits whereas turbidity, biological oxygen demand, nitrite-n ammonia, phosphate and potassium were beyond the permissible limits of state, national and international authorities like GPCB, CPCB WHO and USEPA. These result depicted that water body was polluted in the form of nutrient enrichment which is due to agricultural activities and its runoff in and around catchment area of downstream.
Community asset transfer in Northern Ireland
Authors: Murtagh Brendan
Published: May 2015

Community Asset Transfer (CAT), introduced by the New Labour administration and strengthened by the Coalition, aims to provide local groups with the opportunity to own public sector facilities and related services. It is a contested concept, with critics seeing it as another strategy in welfare displacement and state disinvestment, while for others it offers communities an opportunity to acquire collateral and take control over services affecting their lives. This paper explores CAT in Northern Ireland and suggests that while there are important practices, the region lacks the policies, legislative framework and skills to develop it in more progressive and inclusive ways.
Towards a model of the intervention process
Authors: Lewis Michael , Piercy Niall , Phillips Wendy , Palmer John
Published: May 2015

This paper explores the challenging circumstances when one part of government decides that the performance of a subsidiary part is unacceptable and arranges some kind of remedial intervention. Following the detailed analysis of a series of four central local government interventions we develop a model of the intervention process that combines the type of problem addressed (service-specific and/or corporate) and approach to intervention available (challenging and/or supporting). In addition to extending current conceptual understanding of this under-researched phenomenon, the work generates a number of specific practical insights for future intervention policy.
Conditionality of legal status and immigrant occupational attainment in western Europe
Authors: Corrigan Owen
Published: May 2015

This paper advances a novel theoretical perspective on the determinants of immigrant occupational attainment in western Europe. Previous research has not accounted for the process of legal status transition or the implications of this for migrants. A new measure of the conditionality attached to legal status transitions is advanced and its hypothesised role in the determination of migrant outcomes in interaction with other features of legal status policy is tested utilising large-scale European microdata for 14 countries in the context of multilevel modelling. Results support the hypothesis and the paper concludes by discussing implications for policymakers and for future research.
The politics of climate change
Authors: Giddens Anthony
Published: May 2015

This article is based on a transcript of a speech by Anthony Giddens that was presented as the twentieth Policy & Politics Annual Lecture on 17 March 2015 at the University of Bristol, UK. Hence it is not as polished as an orthodox article might be. The speech is available online at www.bris.ac.uk/sps/policypolitcs/annuallecture2015/. It drew in some part upon the successive editions of his book, The politics of climate change (2009; 2011). Giddens looks at the political issues posed by climate change and stresses the fundamental importance and urgency of the problem for global civilization. Four key propositions are presented. First, that climate change needs to be seen as an immediate issue requiring urgent attention, not as a remote problem down the line. Second, rather than formal targets to limit carbon emissions reached under the auspices of the UN, bilateral and regional accords are likely to be much more important. Third, the power of fossil fuel companies needs to be challenged on a global level. Finally, digitally enhanced global activism can have a powerful impact on the climate change debate and the pressure for change.
From tools to toolkits in policy design studies: the new design orientation towards policy formulation research
Authors: Howlett Michael , Mukherjee Ishani , Woo Jun Jie
Published: May 2015

A roadmap for ‘new policy design’ studies now exists in the orientation which has emerged in recent years towards the formulation of complex policy mixes. The new design orientation focuses on bundles or portfolios of tools and the interactive effects which occur when multiple tools are used over time in policy packages designed to address multiple goals, and upon more complex multi-policy and multi-level design contexts. This review article examines the differences between the ‘old’ instrument orientation and the ‘new’ design one, setting out the current research agenda in this field and its rationale.
After the ‘need for … a father’: ‘the welfare of the child’ and ‘supportive parenting’ in assisted conception clinics in the UK
Authors: Lee Ellie , Sheldon Sally , Macvarish Jan
Published: May 2015

The law governing assisted conception in the United Kingdom (UK) (the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990) mandates through section 13(5) that clinicians make ‘child welfare’ assessments before proceeding with treatment. In the 1990 Act, section 13(5) stated that assessment should take into account ‘the need … for a father’, but in section 13(5) of a revised Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act in 2008 the words ‘a father’ were replaced with ‘supportive parenting’ in order to signal official recognition of same-sex parents. This article challenges the idea that this might be seen as an unequivocally progressive development through reference to a growing body of scholarship that critically evaluates the attention that policy makers have come to pay to ‘parenting’. It discusses the sociopolitical context that gave rise to section 13(5) and the pressures that led to its reform. Findings from an interview study with members of staff who work in assisted conception clinics in the UK are then discussed, focusing on staff’s perceptions of the new policy, the meanings they ascribe to the term ‘supportive parenting’ and their opinions about the responsibility they are given under law for child welfare. The article concludes that professionals’ understandings of their role resonate strongly with the wider realities of the oversight of parent–child relations considered characteristic of policies on parenting.
Standardizing Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Sompuram Seshi R. , Vani Kodela , Tracey Brian , Kamstock Debra A. , Bogen Steven A.
Published: May 2015

A new standardized immunohistochemistry (IHC) control for breast cancer testing comprises formalin-fixed human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, estrogen receptor, or progesterone receptor peptide antigens covalently attached to 8-µm glass beads. The antigen-coated beads are suspended in a liquid matrix that hardens upon pipetting onto a glass microscope slide. The antigen-coated beads remain in place through deparaffinization, antigen retrieval, and immunostaining. The intensity of the beads’ stain provides feedback regarding the efficacy of both antigen retrieval and immunostaining. As a first report, we tested the sensitivity and specificity of the new IHC controls (“IHControls”). To evaluate sensitivity, various staining problems were simulated. IHControls detected primary and secondary reagent degradation similarly to tissue controls. This first group of IHControls behaved similarly to tissue controls expressing high concentrations of the antigen. The IHControls were also able to detect aberrations in antigen retrieval, as simulated by sub-optimal times or temperatures. Specificity testing revealed that each antigen-coated bead was specific for its cognate IHC test antibody. The data support the conclusion that, like tissue controls, IHControls are capable of verifying the analytic components of an immunohistochemical stain. Unlike tissue controls, IHControls are prepared in large bulk lots, fostering day-to-day reproducibility that can be standardized across laboratories.
Reviews
Authors: Castaño David , Ribeiro Inês Marques
Published: May 2015

Melo Antunes: Uma Biografia Política, Maria Inácia Rezola (2012) Lisbon: Âncora Editora, 791 pp., paperback, ISBN: 9789727803736

The Foreign Policy of the European Union – Assessing Europe’s Role in the World, federiga bindi (ed.) (2010) Washington, DC: Brookings Institution Press, 367 pp., ISBN: 9780815701408
Trauma as trans-generational discourse: Focusing on the Spanish case
Authors: Gallardo Ángel Rodríguez
Published: May 2015

A new social discourse has been introduced in Spanish society as a result of the new generation that has started to move away from the discourses of their parents and grandparents, which were always immersed in the fear produced by the civil war. This fear explains part of the immobilization and social paralyses suffered by Spain in recent decades. The new tales from the new generations can explain the loss of fear and new forms of social mobilization.
The war experience as a ‘recent past’: Memoirs, witness accounts and modes of representing the Second World War in Bulgaria during the 1940s and 1950s
Authors: Vukov Nikolai
Published: May 2015

Almost immediately after the end of the Second World War, memoir reflections about the war years started to appear in Bulgaria and soon turned into a major form of historiographic reflection. The instances of such books increased particularly from the early 1950s, when core texts about the experience of different partisan groups emerged, laying the basis of central themes and representations of the war over the following decades. Representing historical events through the views of participants and witnesses of the war experience, such memoirs became not only a ‘subjective resource of history’, but also a primary material, from which the emerging post-war historiographic discourse drew locally ingrained inspiration, validity and power of persuasion. The goal of this article is to reflect on the representations of the war experience as a ‘recent past’ in memoirs published during the first decade after the end of the Second World War in Bulgaria. On the basis of an analysis of the main topics and narrative strategies applied in memoir texts from this decade, the text will address core issues related to the interpretation and commemoration of the war years. Focusing on the crucial role played by memoirs about the war in the emerging narratives of communist historiography, the article will outline how they shaped the subsequent conceptualizations of the history and patterns of remembrance of the war years in communist Bulgaria.
Power and the public sphere: Lessons from Tahrir Square
Authors: Goes Eunice
Published: May 2015

The Arab Spring of 2011 challenged established assumptions about Arab exceptionalism and, to a certain extent, restored our faith in the ability of the public sphere to effect political change. After all, it was thanks to the brave protests of thousands of citizens that Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak was ousted from power in February of 2011. But four years after those momentous events, the discursive power of Tahrir Square has been marginalized and limited. Moreover, Egypt’s transition to democracy was de facto suspended by the armed forces in 2013. Using the Egyptian example, this article examines the role of the public sphere in processes of political change. The article will argue that in its Habermasian formulation and in the Egyptian manifestation, the public sphere has limited ability to effect political change. Drawing on the theoretical literature on deliberative democracy, the article explores the potential of deliberative institutions to open up and even out access to the public sphere to a diversity of voices, to empower civil society actors, and therefore to act as counterweight to established political forces.
The mobility strategies of the Senegalese fishermen at the Senegal-Mauritania maritime border
Authors: Hallaire Juliette
Published: May 2015

Since the beginning of the 1980s, fishermen from the northern Senegalese border city of Saint Louis have faced significant difficulties at the Senegal-Mauritania maritime border. As a response to the strengthening of Mauritania’s border controls, they have developed mobility strategies to reach Mauritanian waters and circumvent border regulation practices. Drawing on in-depth field interviews in Senegal, this article sheds light on Saint Louis fishermen’s different strategies and tactics. I argue that fishermen have become active border producers and that their movement has shaped the maritime borderland in a geographic and political sense. I will show that through these mobility strategies and tactics, the local fishermen have developed significant appropriation practices of the Mauritanian maritime spaces. Their specific language and knowledge, creation of names and mental representations of these spaces challenge Mauritania’s fishing resources regulation and give legitimacy to their illegal cross-border movement.
War and nation in Angola: Reading Mayombe from the perspective of memory studies
Authors: Santos Alexandra Dias
Published: May 2015

War is recognized as an important element in the process of consolidation of national identities, as well as in the shaping of collective memory. Also, certain literary narratives of war are considered fundamental in the symbolic process leading to the formation and consolidation of national identities. A founding status has been attributed to Pepetela, a well-known Angolan writer, winner of several major international awards. His novel Mayombe, written in 1971 and published after independence, in 1980, is a literary account of the confrontations between Portuguese soldiers and the guerrillas of the anti-colonial People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA – Movimento Popular de Libertaçao de Angola) in northern Angola. The present paper will focus on the myth of the nation’s origins proposed in this novel. It is suggested that Mayombe portrays just one of the possible perspectives on anti-colonial war and on the origins of the Angolan nation, namely a perspective moulded after a socialist imagery, and shaped by a teleological view of history. I will argue that this vision influences the handling of such important issues as individual freedom, the co-existence of diverse forms of collective identity, and the use of violence, leading to a bias in collective memory.
A Critical Review on the Conversion Degree of Resin Monomers by Direct Analyses
Authors: Borges Ana Flavia Sanches , Chase Melody Analia , Guggiari Ana Liesel , Gonzalez Maria Jose , Ribeiro Andreia Rodrigues de Souza , Pascon Fernanda Miori , Zanatta Antonio Ricardo
Published: May 2015

AbstractObjectives: The aim of this study was to carry out a review on the methods of direct detection of composite resins´ degree of conversion.Data/sources: The authors searched the Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and the Web of Science (ISI) for papers dated from January 1991 to November 2011. The search was complemented by manual searches of the reference lists from each identified relevant paper. The main search terms were: “degree of conversion”, “monomers”, “polymers”, “composite”, “pre-gel”, “post-gel”, “residual monomers” and “double bond”.Study selection: The inclusion criteria were studies that evaluated consolidated methods in the literature to directly evaluate the degree of conversion. Excluded studies were those considered to be unrelated to the question addressed, such as mechanical and physical properties and also monomers from adhesive systems and compomers. The selected papers were assigned to a score (A, B or C), according to the predetermined criteria. A total of 45 papers were selected and 15 papers were included in the critical appraisal. Two articles were labeled as grade A, nine articles were labeled as grade B, and four articles were labeled as grade C.  Conclusions: According to the definitions of evidence levels, the current article study showed a strong evidence of review. Clinical significance: The monomer´s degree of conversion predicts the quality of polymers.
Mechanical behavior of NiCr and NiCrTi alloys for implant prosthetic components
Authors: Sartori Ivete Aparecida de Mattias , Ramos Carla Müller , Faot Fernanda , Da Silva Luciano Monteiro , Valgas Laiz , Borges Ana Flávia Sanches
Published: May 2015

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the tensile and hardness mechanical properties, as well as the composition and microstructure of three different alloys used for implant prosthestic components casting. Methods: The alloys were divided into three groups: Tilite (Tilite), Vera (Verabond) and Malloy (DanCeramalloy). For the tensile test, the specimens (n=10) of each group were evaluated in “alter” form and the maximum load fracture, the deformation at maximum load and Young´s modulus were determined.  The data was subjected to one way ANOVA and Turkey’s test.  For the hardness test, five discs from each group were evaluated for Vickers hardness. The data was analyzed using multiple regression ANOVA followed by the Turkey’s test. The significance level was set at 5% (? = 0.05). The composition and microstructure was determined through analysis of two specimens from each group by metallographic analysis (MEV/EED). Results: With regards to maximum load tensile, the deformation and the Young´s Modulus the three alloys evaluated were statistically similar. Regarding hardness, Tilite showed significant higher values than the others alloys. Conclusion: All the examined alloys can be used in implant prosthetic components and the presence of the element Ti did not influence the mechanical behavior of the alloy.
Evaluation of crosshead speed influence on shear bond strength test
Authors: Abreu Celina Wanderley de , Duarte Filho Gilberto , Kojima Alberto Noriyuki , Jóias Renato Morales , Mesquita Alfredo Mikail Melo
Published: May 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different speeds using the piston device in the shear bond strength. 48 cylinders of composed resin had been confectioned (Solidex),and were divided randomly in four groups (n=12).  The specimens were adapted to the device for the  shear bond strenth test and were taken to an universal testing machine with a load cell of 1000Kg. The test were carried through with four different speeds: group A: 0,5; group B: 1,0; group C: 1,5 and group D: 2,0mm/min. The mean and standard deviations, in Kgf, were: A - 66,31(10,24); B - 64,53 (20,40); C - 75,23 (11,84) and D - 66,62 (13,81). The data were submitted to ANOVA (p=0,13). The results indicated that it did not have statistical significant difference between the groups   A, B, C and D concluding that the speed in this type of test, with this device, can be varied without modify results.
Self-medication in patients with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Dias Isabela Maddalena , Guedes Lilian Alves , Cordeiro Patricia Cataldo de Felipe , Leite Isabel Cristina Gonçalves , Leite Fabíola Pessoa Pereira
Published: May 2015

Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are a set of painful and / or functional clinical problems that affect the joints and / or muscles of the orofacial region. The practice of self-medication, defined as the consumption of unprescribed drugs, is explained in most TMD patient cases by the occurrence of constant pain, producing discomfort and fatigue, while performing essential functions such as chewing, speaking, and swallowing, causing a drop in the quality of life of patients who have this disorder. Because of this, many see medication as a quick and sufficient means of addressing the problem of pain, and do not seek help from a professional. This study therefore aimed to evaluate, through guided interviews, the practice of self-medication in patients with temporomandibular disorder. The researchers interviewed 115 patients who were referred for treatment at the Diagnosis and Treatment Service for Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ Service), School of Dentistry, Federal University of Juiz de Fora. In the sample studied there was a high prevalence of self-medication among the patients interviewed, of whom 71.3% used medication without a prescription, with a majority being female (84.14%). Headache was the main complaint reported by patients who self-medicated (39.53%), analgesics the most used drug class (58.13%), and most of the pain relief drugs were acquired through old prescriptions (40.25%). Thus, this work emphasizes the importance of guiding the patient and the professional regarding this practice.
Internationale Migration
Authors: Pries Ludger
Published: May 2015

Wie vorübergehende oder dauerhafte Migration über die geographischen Grenzen sozialer und politischer Einheiten hinweg ist so alt wie die Menschheit selbst. In Deutschland bekamen grenzüberschreitende Wanderungsprozesse mit den tiefgreifenden Veränderungen in Osteuropa und mit der Stabilisierung der Europäischen Union eine neue Bedeutung. Gemessen an dieser veränderten Wirklichkeit hat die sozialwissenÝ schaftliche Migrationsforschung in Europa und speziell in Deutschland noch sehr viel aufzuholen. Der Band gibt einen Überblick über wichtige klassische und neue Theorien internationaler Migration, wobei besonderes Gewicht auf aktuelle Forschungen aus Nordamerika gelegt wird.