bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arbidol (Umifenovir): A Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Drug That Inhibits Medically Important Arthropod-Borne Flaviviruses
Authors: Haviernik Jan , Štefánik Michal , Fojtíková Martina , Kali Sabrina , Tordo Noël , Rudolf Ivo , Hubálek Zdeněk , Eyer Luděk , Ruzek Daniel
Published: April 2018

Arthropod-borne flaviviruses are human pathogens of global medical importance, against which no effective small molecule-based antiviral therapy has currently been reported. Arbidol (umifenovir) is a broad-spectrum antiviral compound approved in Russia and China for prophylaxis and treatment of influenza. This compound shows activities against numerous DNA and RNA viruses. The mode of action is based predominantly on impairment of critical steps in virus-cell interactions. Here we demonstrate that arbidol possesses micromolar-level anti-viral effects (EC50 values ranging from 10.57 ± 0.74 to 19.16 ± 0.29 µM) in Vero cells infected with Zika virus, West Nile virus, and tick-borne encephalitis virus, three medically important representatives of the arthropod-borne flaviviruses. Interestingly, no antiviral effects of arbidol are observed in virus infected porcine stable kidney cells (PS), human neuroblastoma cells (UKF-NB-4), and human hepatoma cells (Huh-7 cells) indicating that the antiviral effect of arbidol is strongly cell-type dependent. Arbidol shows increasing cytotoxicity when tested in various cell lines, in the order: Huh-7 < HBCA < PS < UKF-NB-4 < Vero with CC50 values ranging from 18.69 ± 0.1 to 89.72 ± 0.19 µM. Antiviral activities and acceptable cytotoxicity profiles suggest that arbidol could be a promising candidate for further investigation as a potential therapeutic agent in selective treatment of flaviviral infections.
Feline APOBEC3s, Barriers to Cross-Species Transmission of FIV?
Authors: Zhang Zeli , Gu Qinyong , Marino Daniela , Lee Kyeong-Lim , Kong Il-Keun , Häussinger Dieter , Münk Carsten
Published: April 2018

The replication of lentiviruses highly depends on host cellular factors, which defines their species-specific tropism. Cellular restriction factors that can inhibit lentiviral replication were recently identified. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) was found to be sensitive to several feline cellular restriction factors, such as apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme, catalytic polypeptide-like 3 (APOBEC3) and tetherin, but FIV evolved to counteract them. Here, we describe the molecular mechanisms by which feline APOBEC3 restriction factors inhibit FIV replication and discuss the molecular interaction of APOBEC3 proteins with the viral antagonizing protein Vif. We speculate that feline APOBEC3 proteins could explain some of the observed FIV cross-species transmissions described in wild Felids.
Pervasive Chimerism in the Replication-Associated Proteins of Uncultured Single-Stranded DNA Viruses
Authors: Kazlauskas Darius , Varsani Arvind , Krupovic Mart
Published: April 2018

Numerous metagenomic studies have uncovered a remarkable diversity of circular replication-associated protein (Rep)-encoding single-stranded (CRESS) DNA viruses, the majority of which are uncultured and unclassified. Unlike capsid proteins, the Reps show significant similarity across different groups of CRESS DNA viruses and have conserved domain organization with the N-terminal nuclease and the C-terminal helicase domain. Consequently, Rep is widely used as a marker for identification, classification and assessment of the diversity of CRESS DNA viruses. However, it has been shown that in certain viruses the Rep nuclease and helicase domains display incongruent evolutionary histories. Here, we systematically evaluated the co-evolutionary patterns of the two Rep domains across classified and unclassified CRESS DNA viruses. Our analysis indicates that the Reps encoded by members of the families Bacilladnaviridae, Circoviridae, Geminiviridae, Genomoviridae, Nanoviridae and Smacoviridae display largely congruent evolutionary patterns in the two domains. By contrast, among the unclassified CRESS DNA viruses, 71% appear to have chimeric Reps. Such massive chimerism suggests that unclassified CRESS DNA viruses represent a dynamic population in which exchange of gene fragments encoding the nuclease and helicase domains is extremely common. Furthermore, purging of the chimeric sequences uncovered six monophyletic Rep groups that may represent new families of CRESS DNA viruses.
Hydrodynamic Characteristics of the Formation Processes for Non-Homogeneous Debris-Flow
Authors: Shu An , Tian Lu , Wang Shu , Rubinato Matteo , Zhu Fuyang , Wang Mengyao , Sun Jiangtao
Published: April 2018

Non-homogeneous debris flows are characterized by a wide grain size gradation, high volumetric weight and sediments not uniformly distributed along the vertical direction of the flow depth. These flows usually occur in the southwestern mountainous area of China during the rainy season, causing tangible and non-tangible damages; therefore, it is crucial to study their dynamic characteristics. An experimental campaign was conducted to replicate three processes typical of debris flows: (i) formation; (ii) propagation; and (iii) accumulation. Different flow rates, soil composition and flume slopes were applied. Multiple experimental parameters were quantified for each test conducted such as pore water pressure and velocity and a series of regression analyses were used to determine the relative impact of each experimental variable on these recorded parameters. The results showed that the flowrate and the vertical grading coefficient associated with the soil composition have the maximum and the minimum influence on the formation of debris flows and propagation velocities measured, respectively. This result is significant and needs to be considered when planning or designing control measures to reduce the impacts of debris flows.
Hydraulic Jumps in Adverse-Slope Stilling Basins for Stepped Spillways
Authors: Ljubičić Robert , Zindović Budo , Vojt Predrag , Pavlović Dragutin , Kapor Radomir , Savić Ljubodrag
Published: April 2018

The performance of flat stilling basins can be inadequate for conditions when the tailwater depth is insufficient for hydraulic jump stabilization. In such cases, adverse-slope stilling basins can be used because they reduce the necessary tailwater depth. Sloped basins combined with smooth chutes have been the subject of many studies. However, limited research has been done for basins with stepped chutes, which are characterized by intensive flow aeration and high energy dissipation. Based on our scale-model experimental measurements of depth, velocity, and air concentration, we present a momentum-based method to characterize such hydraulic jump: the sequent depth ratio, the length of hydraulic jump roller, and energy dissipation effectiveness. The proposed method provides better agreement with experimental data when compared to existing methods and can be used for preliminary design.
Ketamine Treatment for Mood Disorders
Authors: Klise Andrew , Lerner Brian , Ettensohn Marc F. , Levine Steven P.
Published: April 2018

Ketamine is a glutamate modulator that increases synaptogenesis at subanesthetic doses in animal models. Studies examining ketamine's use in major depressive disorder have yielded large effect sizes for depression symptom reduction, depression remittance, and an independent reduction of suicidal ideation. Although there is more evidence supporting ketamine for the treatment of unipolar depression, studies examining ketamine's use in bipolar depression have also been positive, with no evidence that ketamine induces a “switch” from depression to mania. Although ketamine is sometimes used in conjunction with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), outstanding evidence indicates little to no enhancement of ECT outcome. A standard dose of intravenous ketamine for depression is 0.5 mg/kg over 40 minutes; current lines of investigation are probing optimal dose and maintenance regimens.

[
Psychiatr Ann.
2018;48(4):175–179.]
Involvement of the Spinal Cord in Mitochondrial Disorders
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Zarrouk-Mahjoub Sinda
Published: April 2018

This review aims at summarising and discussing the current status concerning the clinical presentation, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of spinal cord affection in mitochondrial disorders (MIDs). A literature search using the database Pubmed was carried out by application of appropriate search terms and their combinations. Involvement of the spinal cord in MIDs is more frequent than anticipated. It occurs in specific and non-specific MIDs. Among the specific MIDs it has been most frequently described in LBSL, LS, MERRF, KSS, IOSCA, MIRAS, and PCH and only rarely in MELAS, CPEO, and LHON. Clinically, spinal cord involvement manifests as monoparesis, paraparesis, quadruparesis, sensory disturbances, hypotonia, spasticity, urinary or defecation dysfunction, spinal column deformities, or as transverse syndrome. Diagnosing spinal cord involvement in MIDs requires a thoroughly taken history, clinical exam, and imaging studies. Additionally, transcranial magnetic stimulation, somato-sensory-evoked potentials, and cerebrospinal fluid can be supportive. Treatment is generally not at variance compared to the underlying MID but occasionally surgical stabilisation of the spinal column may be necessary. It is concluded that spinal cord involvement in MIDs is more frequent than anticipated but may be missed if cerebral manifestations prevail. Spinal cord involvement in MIDs may strongly determine the mobility of these patients.
Practical consensus recommendations on Her2 +ve breast cancer with solitary brain mets
Authors: Rohatgi Nitesh , Munshi A. , Bajpai P. , Singh M. , Sahai S. , Ahmad M. , Singh K. , Singh H. , Parikh Purvish M. , Aggarwal S.
Published: April 2018

Breast cancer is a common cause of brain metastases, with metastases occurring in at least 10–16% of patients. Longer survival of patients with metastatic breast cancer and the use of better imaging techniques are associated with an increased incidence of brain metastases. Current therapies include surgery, whole-brain radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapies. However, the timing and appropriate use of these therapies is controversial and careful patient selection by using available prognostic tools is extremely important. Expert oncologist discussed on the mode of treatment to extend the OS and improve the quality of life ofHER2-positivebreast cancer patients with Solitary brain metastases. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at this practical consensus recommendations for the benefit of community oncologists.
UM OLHAR BOURDIEUSIANO SOBRE AS ESTRUTURAS SOCIAIS DO CAMPO CIENTÍFICO CONTÁBIL BRASILEIRO
Authors: Costa Flaviano , Martins Gilberto De Andrade
Published: April 2018

Esta pesquisa objetivou analisar como se apresentam as estruturas sociais do campo científico contábil brasileiro. Para tanto, utilizou a Teoria de Campos de Pierre Bourdieu para embasar os resultados obtidos. Trata-se de um levantamento operacionalizado por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas entre os anos de 2014 e 2015, com uma amostra de 9 respondentes de diferentes regiões do país e vinculados a diferentes Instituições de Ensino Superior (IES) que passaram por uma socialização acadêmica em nível de doutorado ou pós-doutorado na área contábil. Os dados foram analisados com emprego da técnica de análise de conteúdo. Com relação ao habitus dos agentes pertencentes ao campo científico contábil, constatou-se uma tendência ao produtivismo. Apoiando-se em Bourdieu (2004, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013) foram encontradas evidências que podem sinalizar que as teorias, conceitos, metodologias, técnicas e demais escolhas realizadas pelos pesquisadores da área contábil, na maioria das vezes, não passam de manobras estratégicas que visam conquistar, reforçar, assegurar ou derrubar o monopólio da autoridade científica, visando a obtenção de maior poder simbólico no campo, ou seja, a produção de conhecimento em contabilidade, similar a outras áreas do conhecimento humano, não é desinteressada, neutra e preocupada com o progresso da área, mas é um caso de produção e distribuição capitalista de mercadorias, que foca, principalmente, a obtenção de prestígio e reconhecimento social por parte dos agentes. Contudo, tais evidências devem ser analisadas com cautela por se tratar de um estudo que não contemplou a totalidade de pesquisadores da área, tendo sido seus dados coletados por acessibilidade.
A INFLUÊNCIA DO TÍTULO DE MESTRE NOS EGRESSOS DO MESTRADO EM CIÊNCIAS CONTÁBEIS DA FECAP: ANÁLISE À LUZ DA TEORIA DO CAPITAL HUMANO
Authors: Chirotto Amanda Russo , Peleias Ivam Ricardo , Parisi Claudio , Cunha Jacqueline Veneroso Alves da
Published: April 2018

A Teoria do Capital Humano (TCH) estabelece que, ao adquirir mais conhecimentos e habilidades, um indivíduo aumentaria o valor de seu capital humano, e em consequência, de sua empregabilidade, produtividade e rendimento potencial. Diante desse pressuposto, buscou-se analisar a influência do título de mestre nos egressos do mestrado em Ciências Contábeis da FECAP sob a ótica da TCH. Foi realizada uma pesquisa descritiva, quantitativa, com aplicação de um questionário para 180 egressos mestres. Os resultados apontaram que os mestres são majoritariamente homens, com idade média de 47 anos, casados, com filhos, residentes na cidade de São Paulo e com formação em Ciências Contábeis, tendo como principais atividades remuneradas o mercado e a academia, a maioria atuando no setor privado e com remuneração acima de R$ 9.000,00, os resultados apontam melhora na faixa salarial após a conclusão do curso. Os principais fatores percebidos como mais influenciados pelo título foram: espírito acadêmico, diferenciação profissional, competências analíticas, empregabilidade, oportunidades na carreira, respeitabilidade e reconhecimento acadêmico/profissional. Para os egressos, o título influenciou positivamente, considerando os fatores preconizados pela TCH.
EFEITOS DA DISPERSÃO GEOGRÁFICA SOBRE TAXAS DE FRANQUIA: UM ESTUDO COM REDES FRANQUEADAS NO BRASIL
Authors: Silva Bianca Maria da , Bitti Eugênio José Silva , Silva Vivian Lara dos Santos
Published: April 2018

Esse artigo investiga a relação entre a dispersão geográfica e taxas de franquia em redes franqueadas operando no Brasil. Essas organizações normalmente cobram de franqueados uma taxa fixa inicial no ato da compra da franquia, além de, normalmente, praticarem royalties contínuos cobrados sobre o faturamento bruto de cada unidade franqueada. O presente estudo adota o framework da teoria da agência, assumindo que a dispersão geográfica em redes de franquias eleva a complexidade e, consequentemente, os custos de monitoramento. Na presença de monitoramento insuficiente, problemas de comportamento indesejado de franqueados podem surgir. Tais problemas poderiam afetar tanto o fluxo de caixa da rede em decorrência da queda no faturamento das unidades – e, por conseguinte, o pagamento de royalties – como o próprio valor da marca da rede franqueada em função da queda na qualidade de atendimento, por exemplo. Este quadro pode levar as redes franqueadas a adotarem maiores incentivos ao bom comportamento de franqueados; por exemplo, praticando taxas de franquia mais reduzidas. No entanto, mesmo em presença de uma elevada dispersão espacial das unidades, esse efeito poderia ser moderado por características da operação que permitissem monitoramento à distância mais eficiente. Por exemplo, em redes de varejo, o giro de estoques poderia ser usado como indicador de desempenho em vendas. O estudo então desenvolve e testa um modelo econométrico para estimar o efeito da dispersão geográfica e de características das redes quanto ao monitoramento à distância sobre o setup das taxas fixas e variáveis praticadas por redes de franquia operando no Brasil. Um total de 376 redes associadas à Associação Brasileiras de Franchising (ABF) são investigadas em uma análise cross-section tendo como base o ano de 2011. Os resultados apresentam evidências de que redes franqueadas mais dispersas tipicamente praticam taxas de royalties mais baixas. Por outro lado, certas características reduzem este efeito tais como a presença de estoques nas unidades, maior nível de automação nas unidades e uma maior proporção de lojas posicionadas em shopping centers. No entanto, para as taxas fixas os resultados não são conclusivos. O estudo também constatou que as taxas de franquias fixas e variáveis não apresentam efeito substitutivo entre elas, ou seja, não são inversamente proporcionais, o que indica uma diferenciação do cenário brasileiro em relação a outros países.
PROPOSTA DE CONVERGÊNCIA TEÓRICA DAS PERSPECTIVAS DAS FINANÇAS E DA CONTABILIDADE NA AVALIAÇÃO DE ATIVOS INTANGÍVEIS
Authors: Cavalcanti Joyce Mariella Medeiros , Amaral Hudson Fernandes , Correia Laise Ferraz , Louzada Luiz Cláudio
Published: April 2018

Os ativos intangíveis passaram, nos últimos anos, a serem considerados como os principais direcionadores de valor corporativo. Apesar de sua relevância, avaliá-los tem se constituído em uma atividade complexa que envolve o debate entre as perspectivas da Contabilidade e das Finanças. Ao se discutir neste ensaio teórico as potencialidades e as limitações da Contabilidade e das Finanças para avaliar os ativos intangíveis – a partir de suas teorias positivas e normativas, o objetivo foi apresentar uma proposta de possível convergência entre essas perspectivas, a qual ensejasse uma melhoria na qualidade da informação concernente ao valor desses ativos. Argumentou-se, por um lado, que a Contabilidade não evidencia os ativos intangíveis inteiramente nas demonstrações contábeis; e, por outro, defendeu-se que metodologias financeiras permitiriam compensar essa lacuna na informação. Como conclusão, entendeu-se que ambas perspectivas se complementam, uma vez que a avaliação dos ativos intangíveis funciona como um ciclo, em que a Contabilidade evidencia nas demonstrações financeiras o que de fato reconhece como eventos que alteraram a situação econômica, financeira e patrimonial da firma, enquanto as Finanças concentram-se na análise dessas informações, em conjunto com dados externos, como suporte à tomada de decisão.
Retrieval of total water vapour in the Arctic using microwave humidity sounders
Authors: Scarlat Raul Cristian , Melsheimer Christian , Heygster Georg
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Quantitative retrievals of atmospheric water vapour in the Arctic present numerous challenges because of the particular climate characteristics of this area. Here, we attempt to build upon the work of Melsheimer and Heygster (2008) to retrieve total atmospheric water vapour (TWV) in the Arctic from satellite microwave radiometers. While the above-mentioned algorithm deals primarily with the ice-covered central Arctic, with this work we aim to extend the coverage to partially ice-covered and ice-free areas. By using modelled values for the microwave emissivity of the ice-free sea surface, we develop two sub-algorithms using different sets of channels that deal solely with open-ocean areas. The new algorithm extends the spatial coverage of the retrieval throughout the year but especially in the warmer months when higher TWV values are frequent. The high TWV measurements over both sea-ice and open-water surfaces are, however, connected to larger uncertainties as the retrieval values are close to the instrument saturation limits.This approach allows us to apply the algorithm to regions where previously no data were available and ensures a more consistent physical analysis of the satellite measurements by taking into account the contribution of the surface emissivity to the measured signal.
A cloud algorithm based on the O2-O2 477 nm absorption band featuring an advanced spectral fitting method and the use of surface geometry-dependent Lambertian-equivalent reflectivity
Authors: Vasilkov Alexander , Yang Eun-Su , Marchenko Sergey , Qin Wenhan , Lamsal Lok , Joiner Joanna , Krotkov Nickolay , Haffner David , Bhartia Pawan , Spurr Robert
Published: April 2018

Abstract. We discuss a new cloud algorithm that retrieves an effective cloud pressure, also known as cloud optical centroid pressure (OCP), from oxygen dimer (O2-O2) absorption at 477 nm after determining an effective cloud fraction (ECF) at 466 nm, a wavelength not significantly affected by trace gas absorption and rotational-Raman scattering. The retrieved cloud products are intended for use as inputs to the operational nitrogen dioxide (NO2) retrieval algorithm for the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) flying on the Aura satellite. The cloud algorithm uses temperature-dependent O2-O2 cross-sections and incorporates flexible spectral fitting techniques that account for specifics of the surface reflectivity. The fitting procedure derives O2-O2 slant column densities (SCD) from radiances after O3, NO2, and H2O absorption features have been removed based on estimates of the amounts of these species from independent OMI algorithms. The cloud algorithm is based on the frequently used Mixed Lambert-Equivalent Reflectivity (MLER) concept. A geometry-dependent Lambertian-equivalent reflectivity (GLER) is used for the ground reflectivity in our implementation of the MLER approach. The OCP is derived from a match of the measured O2-O2 SCD to that calculated with the MLER method. Temperature profiles needed for computation of vertical column densities are taken from the Global Modeling Initiative (GMI) model. We investigate the effect of using GLER instead of climatological LER on the retrieved ECF and OCP. For evaluation purposes, the retrieved ECFs and OCPs are compared with those from the operational OMI cloud product which is also based on the same O2-O2 absorption band. Impacts of the application of the newly developed cloud algorithm to the OMI NO2 retrieval are discussed.
The regional climate model REMO (v2015) coupled with the 1-D freshwater lake model FLake (v1): Fenno-Scandinavian climate and lakes
Authors: Pietikäinen Joni-Pekka , Markkanen Tiina , Sieck Kevin , Jacob Daniela , Korhonen Johanna , Räisänen Petri , Gao Yao , Ahola Jaakko , Korhonen Hannele , Laaksonen Ari , Kaurola Jussi
Published: April 2018

Abstract. The regional climate model REMO was coupled with the FLake lake model to include an interactive treatment of lakes. Using this new version, the Fenno-Scandinavian climate and lake characteristics were studied in a set of 35-year hindcast simulations. Additionally, sensitivity tests related to the parameterization of snow albedo were conducted. Our results show that overall the new model version improves the representation of the Fenno-Scandinavian climate in terms of 2 m temperature and precipitation, but the downside is that an existing wintertime cold bias in the model is enhanced. The lake surface water temperature, ice depth and ice season length were analyzed in detail for 10 Finnish, 4 Swedish and 2 Russian lakes and 1 Estonian lake. The results show that the model can reproduce these characteristics with reasonably high accuracy. The cold bias during winter causes overestimation of ice layer thickness, for example, at several of the studied lakes, but overall the values from the model are realistic and represent the lake physics well in a long-term simulation. We also analyzed the snow depth on ice from 10 Finnish lakes and vertical temperature profiles from 5 Finnish lakes and the model results are realistic.
Trends in evapotranspiration and its drivers in Great Britain: 1961 to 2015
Authors: Blyth Eleanor M. , Martinez-de la Torre Alberto , Robinson Emma L.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. In a warming climate, the water budget of the land is subject to varying forces such as increasing evaporative demand, mainly through the increased temperature, and changes to the precipitation, which might go up or down. Using a verified, physically based model with 55 years of observation-based meteorological forcing, an analysis of the water budget demonstrates that Great Britain is getting warmer and wetter. Increases in precipitation (3.0 ± 2.0 mm yr−1 yr−1) and air temperature (0.20 ± 0.13 K decade−1) are driving increases in river flow (2.16 mm yr−1 yr−1) and evapotranspiration (0.87 mm yr−1 yr−1), with no significant trend in the soil moisture. The change in evapotranspiration is roughly constant across the regions whereas runoff varies greatly between regions: the biggest change is seen in Scotland (4.56 mm yr−1 yr−1), where precipitation increases were also the greatest (5.4 ± 3.0 mm yr−1 yr−1) and smallest trend (0.29 mm yr−1 yr−1) is seen in the English Lowlands (East Anglia and Midlands), where the increase in rainfall is not statistically significant (1.1 ± 0.7 mm yr−1 yr−1). Relative to their contribution to the evapotranspiration budget, the increase in interception is higher than the other components. This is due to the fact that it correlates strongly with precipitation which is seeing a greater increase than the potential evapotranspiration. This leads to a higher increase in actual evapotranspiration that the potential evapotranspiration, and a negligible increase in soil moisture or groundwater store.
Potential future exposure of European land transport infrastructure to rainfall-induced landslides throughout the 21st century
Authors: Schlögl Matthias , Matulla Christoph
Published: April 2018

Abstract. In the face of climate change, the assessment of land transport infrastructure exposure towards adverse climate events is of major importance for Europe's economic prosperity and social wellbeing. In this study, a climate index estimating rainfall patterns which trigger landslides in central Europe is analysed until the end of this century and compared to present-day conditions. The analysis of the potential future development of landslide risk is based on an ensemble of dynamically downscaled climate projections which are driven by the SRES A1B socio-economic scenario. Resulting regional-scale climate change projections across central Europe are concatenated with Europe's road and railway network. Results indicate overall increases of landslide occurrence. While flat terrain at low altitudes exhibits an increase of about 1 more potentially landslide-inducing rainfall period per year until the end of this century, higher elevated regions are more affected and show increases of up to 14 additional periods. This general spatial distribution emerges in the near future (2021–2050) but becomes more pronounced in the remote future (2071–2100). Since largest increases are to be found in Alsace, potential impacts of an increasing amount of landslides are discussed using the example of a case study covering the Black Forest mountain range in Baden-Württemberg by further enriching the climate information with additional geodata. The findings derived are suitable to support political decision makers and European authorities in transport, freight and logistics by offering detailed information on which parts of Europe's ground transport network are at particularly high risk concerning landslide activity.
Gmelina arborea “death disease” in fast-growth plantations: Effects of soil and climatic conditions on severity and incidence and its implications for wood quality
Authors: Arguedas Marcela , Rodriguez-Solis María , Moya Roger , Berrocal Alexander
Published: April 2018

Aim of study: Plantations are threatened by an emerging disease called “Gmelina death disease”. The objective of this study was measured the incidence and severity of this disease and were correlated with the characteristics of the plantations, micro- and macronutrients in the soil and climatic parameters.Area of study: The present study evaluated 16 symptomatic fast-growth plantations of different age in Costa RicaMaterial and methods: Fungi were identified from xylem of infected trees. Incidence and severity was measured and correlated with the characteristics of the plantations, micro- and macronutrients in the soil and climatic parameters. Root condition and the quality (specify gravity, mechanical and decay resistance and chemical compositions), of the wood of symptomatic and asymptomatic trees were compared.Main results: Three fungal species (Chaetomella raphigera, Fusarium solani and Rhizomucor variabilis) were identified from diseased samples. Clay content in the soil profile from 10-20 cm deep explained a significant proportion of the variation in the incidence and severity of the disease, and stand density was related to severity. Although two climatic variables, Holdridge’s potential annual evapotranspiration and Thornthwaite’s potential evapotranspiration, showed a relationship between the incidence in the trees and symptoms of the disease. Infected wood turned black in symptomatic trees. Specify gravity and mechanical resistance of infected wood decreased, whereas its natural durability was unaffected. Changes were observed in the quantities of Mg, Fe, Ca, K and Zn in infected wood.Research highlights: Gmelina plantations established in sites with high stand densities and high contents of clay increase susceptibility to this disease.
Oficina pedagógica de mapas mentais no Ensino Médio: percepção dos sentimentos e valores atribuídos ao lugar
Authors: Campos Margarida de Cássia , Vaccari Thaís Gaffo
Published: April 2018

O presente texto tem como objetivo analisar como os estudantes do ensino médio de escolas do campo no município de Londrina percebem as espacialidades de seu lugar de vivência a partir da interpretação de oito mapas mentais, tendo como aporte teórico as concepções da Geografia Humanista. Como procedimento metodológico utilizou-se a leitura e os fichamentos de textos, organização e planejamento da oficina pedagógica e aplicação da mesma. Por fim, conclui-se que os educandos atribuem sentimentos e valores ao lugar de vivência na medida em que interagem com o mesmo e criam relações afetivas com seus pares.
A espacialização do latifúndio, os impasses à política de assentamentos e a eficiência camponesa em Ivinhema-MS
Authors: Melo Thiago da Silva
Published: April 2018

O presente trabalho pretende discutir a espacialização do latifúndio e os desdobramentos socioambientais e políticos desse processo bem como as tensões de classe entre o latifúndio e o campesinato enquanto portadores de objetivos conflitantes no campo. Para tanto, parte-se da teoria da renda da terra e da função social da terra para a compreensão da constituição do latifúndio produtivo e suas características, o que supõe reposicionar o uso do termo agronegócio. Dessa forma, o objetivo do trabalho é evidenciar como a concentração fundiária provoca efeitos devastadores para a sociedade, ao mesmo tempo em que a unidade de produção camponesa se apresenta como portadora da capacidade de cumprimento da função social da terra. Os estudos que o comprovam estão baseados no recorte espacial do município de Ivinhema, localizado no sudoeste de Mato Grosso do Sul. A metodologia utilizada consistiu em levantamento bibliográfico em livros, periódicos e jornais sobre os temas, levantamento de dados nos censos agropecuários e da produção agrícola municipal do IBGE, informações sobre a estrutura agrária de Ivinhema junto ao INCRA e obtenção de informações por meio de entrevistas realizadas com servidores públicos, proprietários capitalistas e camponeses no município. Após a análise dos dados à luz da base teórica utilizada, constatou-se a prevalência do caráter rentista da propriedade privada capitalista da terra, aqui caracterizada como latifúndio improdutivo e latifúndio produtivo, em vista das distinções entre ambos, aos quais confrontou-se a agricultura camponesa, qualitativamente oposta a ambos em vista do uso produtivo da terra.
Fortaleza e a ocupação do espaço litorâneo no Grande Pirambu
Authors: Da Silva Regina Balbino , Pereira Alexandre Queiroz , Costa Maria Clélia Lustosa
Published: April 2018

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir o processo de apropriação diferenciada da orla fortalezense, com ênfase nas transformações socioespaciais decorrentes da implantação do projeto Vila do Mar no Grande Pirambu, porção oeste do litoral, apresentando as mudanças socioespaciais ao longo das últimas duas décadas, identificando as diferenças entre dois projetos de urbanização e requalificação realizados na área e como estes projetos interferiram na forma de apropriação dos espaços públicos do litoral oeste. As intervenções realizadas no Grande Pirambu, por parte do poder público, geraram novas formas de apropriação do espaço, alterando o cotidiano da população e favorecendo a construção de um sentimento de pertencimento e identidade com este lugar.
Development and Optimization of a Glucose Biosensor Based on Tris [5-amino-1,10-Phenanthroline]Iron(II) Polymer Films
Authors: Brown Kenneth L. , Cushman Kyle A.
Published: April 2018

A bilayered glucose biosensor consisting of tris[5-amino-1, 10-phenanthroline]iron(II) polymer film redox mediator and a glucose oxidase layer was prepared on glassy carbon surfaces. The polymer film of the iron complex was immobilized onto the electrode using cyclic voltammetry via electropolymerization reactions, while the enzyme layer was formed using a BSA and glutaraldehyde crosslinking reaction. The biosensors gave the largest response in the pH range of 7-8 and were evaluated with respect to storage conditions of room temperature and 4oC. There was no significant difference between the detection of glucose using the biosensor stored at room temperature versus one stored at 4°C and both bilayered films remained active for 20 days. The detection limit of the biosensors was found to be 0.30 mM which corresponds to a signal to noise ratio of 3:1.
Frequency Dispersion of Double Layer Capacitance of Polyaniline-Coated Electrodes Under the Conducting State
Authors: Wang Zhaohao , Aoki Koichi Jeremiah , Chen Jingyuan , Zeng Xiangdong
Published: April 2018

The double layer capacitance of polyaniline (PANi)-coated electrode in acidic solution exhibited little frequency dispersion under the emeraldine (electrically conducting) state, while it showed large frequency dispersion under the insulating state. The former has a possibility of working as such an ideal capacitor that it may generate neither heat in iterative charge-discharge processes nor leakage of stored charge. The frequency dispersion is generally expressed by f-l for ac-frequency f and a constant l. This power law is ascribed to orientation of solvent dipoles rather than non-uniform distribution of ions. The value of l under the conducting state was close to zero, implying the orientation to be facilitated by less interaction of solvents. The less interaction was supported indirectly with strain-stress curves of PANi by atomic force microscopy. l-Values close to zero were retained even for thick PANi films.
Chemical and Biological Properties of Soils Under Maize-Cowpea Cropping Systems in Conservation Agriculture
Authors: Banda John S. K. , Mweetwa Alice M. , Ngulube Munsanda , Phiri Elijah
Published: April 2018

The paper reports findings from an evaluation of the effects of selected chemical and biological properties of soils under maize-cowpea cropping systems in Conservation Agriculture (CA) and their relationship to biological nitrogen fixation capabilities of cowpea. Soils from Kayowozi Agriculture Camp of Chipata District of Zambia where CA had been practiced for six years were evaluated. Cropping systems studied included conventional tillage (control), maize monocropping (sole maize), maize-cowpea intercrop, maize-cowpea rotation: maize phase and maize-cowpea: cowpea phase. Standard laboratory procedures were used to determine the changes in the selected soil properties as a result of these cropping sequences under CA. The study showed that maize- cowpea intercrop and rotation-maize phase under conservation agriculture could result in a significant increase in soil organic carbon, total nitrogen and exchangeable calcium after six years of practice. This increase can be associated with the amount and type of residue retained and the contribution of biologically fixed nitrogen from the cowpea. Having cowpea as the immediate previous crop in sequence can result in a depression of soil pH. Soil pH, total nitrogen, available phosphorus and exchangeable calcium in maize-cowpea cropping sequences can influence the amount of biologically fixed nitrogen. Changes in soil activity and microbial biomass might need more than six years to be apparent. The sequencing pattern of crops in a rotation, the choices and characteristics of crops, and the length of time of practice, all play an important role in determining interactions and processes leading to changes in soil properties and crop performance over time.
Variation of Thermal Time, Phyllochron and Plastochron in Passion Fruit Plants With Irrigation Depth and Hydrogel
Authors: Cavalcante Adailza G. , Cavalcante Lourival F. , Cavalcante Alian C. P. , Souto Antônio G. de L. , Santos Carlos E. M. dos , Araújo Danila L. de
Published: April 2018

The passion fruit demands water for its growth and production. Water management is relevant in regions characterized by low rainfall indices, such as semi-arid regions. In this direction, the use of hydrogel in the soil allows the water that is supplied through irrigation to be better utilized by the plants, reducing leach losses. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the influence of hydrogel in soil cultivated with passion fruit and irrigated to various water depths on the thermal time of the phenological stages, phyllochron and plastochron of the plants. Treatments were distributed in randomized blocks in a 2 × 5 factorial arrangement, referring to the soil without and with hydrogel and raising the irrigation depth from 60% to 70%, 80%, 90% and 100% of crop evapotranspiration in four replications. The thermal requirements of the phenological phases and of the whole plant cycle, phyllochron of the main stem and the productive branches, and plastochron were evaluated. Increasing the irrigation depth from 60% to 100% reduced the total thermal time values from 3,811.8 to 2,401.3 °C day and from 3,707.8 to 2,628.7 °C day in the soil without and with hydrogel, respectively. The thermal time of the phenological phases and the phyllochron of the main stem and productive branches of the passion fruit were stimulated by an increase in irrigation depth.
Characterization of Emergence Flows of Volunteer Corn as Function of the Type of Harvest Grain Loss
Authors: Silva Alexandre , Adegas Fernando , Concenço Germani
Published: April 2018

Volunteer corn resistant to glyphosate is constant as weed in soybeans planted in succession. This work aimed to identify the emergence flows of volunteer corn plants in the period of time from the harvest of corn planted following soybean (autumn corn) to the plenty establishment of the canopy of the following soybean crop (summer soybean), as a function of different types of propagules generated by preceding corn harvest losses. Four field experiments were carried out in 2013 and 2014, at a Cerrado location (Sinop, MT) and a subtropical location (Londrina, PR), Brazil. Treatments included the distribution of corn crop residues (factor “A”) either on soil surface or incorporated into superficial soil layers. Four types of propagules (factor “B”) were characterized as ears with whole husk; ears with half husk; broken ears, no husk; and loose grains. The density of emerged plants was recorded fortnightly between August and December. When partially incorporated into soil, propagules generate an increased density of emerged plants as compared to the surface deposition treatments. The main sources of volunteer plants, in descending order of importance, were: (1) loose grains, (2) broken ears, (3) ears with damaged husk, and (4) ears with intact husk. Ears emerged later compared to loose grains or broken ears. Climatic conditions influence the emergence pattern. For the climate of (Savannah-like) Cerrado, the beginning of the rainy season is preponderant for the start of corn emergence. Under subtropical climatic conditions, mild low temperatures, associated or not to rainfall, determine the emergence peaks.
Biofertilizer Microgeo® on Rice Crop: Yield and Seed Quality
Authors: Almeida Thiago Assunção de , Giancotti Paulo Roberto Fidelis , Lima Bento Alvenir Dornelles de , Dalla Nora Douglas , Gomes Ronimar Rosso
Published: April 2018

Rice is the most important crop for the south and south-west region of the Rio Grande do Sul state (Brazil); as all commercial crops, irrigated rice is requiring the use of alternatives for increasing yield and quality of its product with less aggressive/toxic inputs in the environment. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of the biofertilization in the rice crop yield and the parameter of its seed quality and grain quality. It was carried out a field experiment with two treatments (with and without biofertilization with 150 + 150 L CLC® ha-1) with 12 repetitions in an irrigated rice. Biofertilization did not influenced the percentages of whole grain, polished grain and no broken grain. There were no difference between the treatments for final seed germination, seed hectoliter weight and pH. The rice yield with biofertilization using continuous liquid composting was not statistically higher, an expected result for a first year of biofertilization. However, it provided 398 kg ha-1 grain yield increase, which is a very positive and a promising result considering being the first year of application. Therefore, a significant yield increase for the following years of application is expected.
Effects of Macronutrients in the Physiological Quality of Soybean Seeds
Authors: Rigo Geliandro Anhaia , Schuch Luis Osmar Braga , Barros Willian Silva , Vargas Rodrigo Lamaison de , Szareski Vinícius Jardel , Carvalho Ivan Ricardo , Pimentel João Roberto , Troyjack Cristian , Santos Lucian Alex dos , Lautenchleger Francine , Rosa Tiago Corazza da , Souza Velci Queiróz de , Aumonde Tiago Zanatta , Pedó Tiago
Published: April 2018

The aim of this work was to correlate macronutrient content of soybean seeds to physiological quality of different cultivars. The work was developed in the Federal University of Pelotas, in the facilities of the Seed Science and Technology Graduate Program. The experimental design was randomized blocks in arranged in four replicates. The following soybean cultivars were used: BMX Apolo RR (12 lots), BMX Ativa RR (13 lots), BMX Energia RR (26 lots), BMX Força RR (24 lots), BMX Impacto RR (35 lots), BMX Magna RR (16 lots), BMX Turbo RR (44 lots), BMX Potência RR (82 lots) and NA 5909 RR (28 lots), with seeds produced in northwest Rio Grande do Sul. The determination of nutritional contents found in plant tissues of soybean seeds, were measured: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Sulfur (S). The macronutrient contents of the seeds vary according to genetic characteristics of the cultivars, with higher oscillations of nitrogen, phosphorus, magnesium and sulfur contents present in soybean seeds. Potassium and calcium are defined as the most stable nutrients for the cultivars and seed lots analyzed. High concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus and calcium are determinants for the physiological quality of soybean seeds.
The Effects of Stability of Uncontrollability Experiences on Cognitive Exhaustion
Authors: Józefczyk Anna
Published: April 2018

The present study investigates whether stability of the uncontrollability experience is an important factor in causing cognitive exhaustion syndrome. In the first phase, participants experienced different types of deprivation of personal control in terms of trying to find a solution to solvable and unsolvable tasks based on the procedure of Informational Helplessness Training. The Linear Orders Task was used to evaluate the efficiency of generative reasoning. The results revealed the greatest deficits in the group with random uncontrollability experience, with the first solvable and the last unsolvable task. Mechanisms underlying the effects of various uncontrollability experiences on cognitive exhaustion are discussed.
Does Our Well-Being Decrease When We Value High Materialistic Aspirations or When We Attain Them?
Authors: Zawadzka Anna Maria , Niesiobędzka Małgorzata , Żemojtel-Piotrowska Magdalena
Published: April 2018

The purpose of the study was to explore the relationships between materialistic and non-materialistic aspirations and well-being (cognitive, emotional, and social well-being). The novelty of this study is that besides examining the relationships between the importance of materialistic and non-materialistic aspirations and well-being, it also tested the relationships between the attainment of materialistic and non-materialistic goals and different aspects of well-being. The findings of the study indicate that both attaching importance to non-materialistic aspirations and their attainment are linked with well-being (emotional, cognitive and social well-being). The relationship between the attainment of materialistic aspirations and well-being is complex; the attainment of financial success fosters well-being (cognitive, emotional and social well-being) and the attainment of popularity inhibits well-being. However, the relationship between the attachment of importance to materialistic aspirations and well-being is insignificant.
The genetic landscape of a physical interaction
Authors: Diss Guillaume , Lehner Ben
Published: April 2018

A key question in human genetics and evolutionary biology is how mutations in different genes combine to alter phenotypes. Efforts to systematically map genetic interactions have mostly made use of gene deletions. However, most genetic variation consists of point mutations of diverse and difficult to predict effects. Here, by developing a new sequencing-based protein interaction assay – deepPCA – we quantified the effects of >120,000 pairs of point mutations on the formation of the AP-1 transcription factor complex between the products of the FOS and JUN proto-oncogenes. Genetic interactions are abundant both in cis (within one protein) and trans (between the two molecules) and consist of two classes – interactions driven by thermodynamics that can be predicted using a three-parameter global model, and structural interactions between proximally located residues. These results reveal how physical interactions generate quantitatively predictable genetic interactions.
Is the tilt of the lipid head group correlated with the number of intermolecular interactions at the bilayer interface?
Authors: Baczynski Krzysztof , Markiewicz Michal , Pasenkiewicz‐Gierula Marta
Published: April 2018

Lipid and water molecules comprising the bilayer form an integral entity owing to only weak physical interactions. At the bilayer interface, these interactions chiefly involve hydrogen bonding and charge pairing. Lipid head groups make hydrogen bonds (H‐bonds) predominantly with water, whereas interlipid H‐bonds and charge pairs are less numerous. Both interlipid H‐bonding and charge pairing depend on the distance and relative orientation of the interacting head groups. In this computational paper, correlations are analysed between the orientation of the lipid head group and the number of interlipid interactions at the interface of a bilayer made of galactolipids, forming direct interlipid H‐bonds, and of phosphatidylcholines forming interlipid charge pairs. The correlations are not strong, however, in both bilayers they show a similar trend.