bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative growth rates of three woody legumes: implications in the process of ecological invasion
Authors: Crisóstomo J. A. , Freitas H. , Rodríguez-Echeverría S.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Acacia longifolia, an Australian leguminous tree, is one of the main invasive plant species in the coast of Portugal and a major threat to the native vegetation in the Reserva Natural das Dunas de São Jacinto. With the establishment of this exotic species, other native woody leguminous species such as Cytisus grandiflorus and Ulex europaeus have been displaced from their original areas. Several factors are involved in the process of biological invasion by exotic species. Plant physiology and development, characteristic of each species, can give certain advantages in the establishment and colonization of new areas. We tested if there are differences in the Relative Growth Rate (RGR) of the exotic and native species because this could be relevant in the first stages of the invasion process. Our results showed that A. longifolia was the species with lowest RGR. Therefore, other factors apart from RGR might explain the invasion of coastal dunes by this species. We propose that A. longifolia might be a better competitor than the two native legumes and that this process might be mediated by the interaction with soil organisms.
Estimating viability and sensitivity of the great crested newt Triturus cristatus at a regional scale
Authors: Karlsson T. , Betzholtz P.-E. , Malmgren J. C.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Viability and sensitivity of the great crested newt Triturus cristatus were simulated under different scenarios with a demographically and spatially structured stochastic model in an area of 144 km2 in southeastern Sweden. Eighteen ponds were monitored using drift fences with pitfall traps, funnel traps, visual observation and netting during the spring and summer of 2004. Estimated adult population sizes ranged between 0 and 620 individuals and the mean (±SD) local population size was 297 ± 233 individuals. Due to uncertainty of the data, the model was simulated with parameter ranges to estimate upper and lower bounds of viability. Estimated quasi-extinction risk (the risk of each population in the study area falling below 10 females) within a 50-yr period ranged from 100% to 0%, with a “best” estimate of 19.2%. The parameter most sensitive for the model outcome was fecundity, followed by juvenile survival, adult survival and transition from juvenile to adult. When these parameters were set at their lower bound, the quasi-extinction risk increased to 80–100%, while simulating these parameters at their higher bound inferred no or nearly no risk of quasi-extinction. This highlights the importance of focusing conservation efforts and research on the early life cycle stages. Management measures such as restoration of ponds and increased pond density decreased the risk for the great crested newt to end up quasi-extinct in the study area after 50 yr. The results may have implications on management measures of great crested newts throughout its distribution area.
A wavelet-based method to remove spatial autocorrelation in the analysis of species distributional data
Authors: Carl G. , Dormann C. F. , Kühn I.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Species distributional data based on lattice data often display spatial autocorrelation. In such cases, the assumption of independently and identically distributed errors can be violated in standard regression models. Based on a recently published review on methods to account for spatial autocorrelation, we describe here a new statistical approach which relies on the theory of wavelets. It provides a powerful tool for removing spatial autocorrelation without any prior knowledge of the underlying correlation structure. Our wavelet-revised model (WRM) is applied to artificial datasets of species’ distributions, for both presence/absence (binary response) and species abundance data (Poisson or normally distributed response). Making use of these published data enables us to compare WRM to other recently tested models and to recommend it as an attractive option for effective and computationally efficient autocorrelation removal.
Diversity of a semi-arid, intact Mediterranean ecosystem in southwest Australia
Authors: Judd S. , Watson J. E. M. , Watson A. W. T.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. The drier parts of the Mediterranean biome of southwest Australia contain the largest remaining Mediterranean woodlands and shrublands on Earth. Despite this, there has been no formal, comprehensive assessment of their biodiversity. The region abuts the southwest Australian floristic region which has received much scientific attention. The aim of this paper is to provide the first general overview of the biodiversity of part of this intact, yet relatively unknown, Mediterranean ecosystem. We do this by synthesizing data from State Government agencies and published research. We found that, like other parts of southwest Australia, the region has globally significant levels of plant species diversity. More than 2400 plant species, including 291 species considered threatened, have been recorded, representing one-sixth of all Australia’s vascular plant species. Eleven of Australia’s 23 major vegetation groups are represented even though the region covers less than 1% of continental Australia. We documented 170 vertebrate species, including 31 threatened species, with a particularly high richness of reptile species (n = 46). We highlight how little is known about this region. For example, 116 vertebrate species not recorded in the region probably occur there based on their habitat requirements and known distributions. An examination of plant and vertebrate diversity in the region, using a half degree latitude and longitude grid cells, showed a highly heterogeneous pattern of species richness and vulnerability, with a general decline in species richness from southwest to northeast. Conservation strategies that rely on capturing the highest levels of biodiversity in a series of protected areas are unlikely to guarantee protection for all species given these high levels of heterogeneity. Instead, a region-wide conservation plan should involve targeted ecological research, consideration of ecological processes and stakeholder consultation.
Mediterranean-climate oak savannas: the interplay between abiotic environment and species interactions
Authors: Marañón T. , Pugnaire F. I. , Callaway R. M.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Mediterranean oak savannas cover about 4 million ha in California (northwest America) and 3 million ha in Spain and Portugal (southwest Europe), and are ecologically and socio-economically important systems. Here we review literature on the interactions between the two dominant elements of savannas – the oak overstorey, the herbaceous understorey, and the surrounding grassland matrix. We focus on the main ecological factors affecting the oak understorey environment: shade, soil moisture, soil nutrients, and animal-mediated effects. We then review the main features of the herbaceous community in the oak understorey, as compared to the adjacent open grassland, in terms of species composition, biomass, diversity, and soil seed bank. We examine processes associated with oak regeneration and growth, and their relationships with the herbaceous layer and other woody plants cover. Finally, we discuss the complex facilitative and interference interactions that occur in oak-grassland systems and review models proposed to explain the dynamics and coexistence of oak trees and herbaceous plants in savannas.
Comparing regression methods to predict species richness patterns
Authors: Nogués-Bravo D.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Multivariable regression models have been used extensively as spatial modelling tools. However, other regression approaches are emerging as more efficient techniques. This paper attempts to present a synthesis of Generalised Regression Models (Generalized Linear Models, GLMs, Generalized Additive Models, GAMs), and a Geographically Weighted Regression, GWR, implemented in a GAM, explaining their statistical formulations and assessing improvements in predictive accuracy compared with linear regressions. The problems associated with these approaches are also discussed. A digital database developed with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including environmental maps and bird species richness distribution in northern Spain, is used for comparison of the techniques. GWR using splines has shown the highest improvement in accounted deviance when compared with traditional linear regression approach, followed by GAM and GLM.
Research Note: The Economic Value and Roles of Rural Festivals in Japan
Authors: Okubo Kenji , Gardebroek Cornelis , Heijman Wim
Published: September 2013

This article studies the economic value and roles of rural festivals. The authors investigate the festivals of ‘Kuruma-ichi’ and ‘Suishamatsuri’ in the Yamane area of Kuji city, Iwate prefecture, Japan. They estimate a travel demand model to infer the value of these festivals for visitors and apply the chi-square automatic interaction detection (CHAID) method to analyse the reasons for visiting. The results indicate that the consumer surplus of these festivals is ¥3,627 (US$45.3) for a tourist per trip. From the CHAID analysis it follows that the annual frequency of visits depends on the opportunity for exchange among tourists and the local residents. It appears that the festivals are important occasions for the gathering of former residents in this depopulated and aged mountainous area.
The Pleiotropic Effect of Vitamin D
Authors: Lai Yu-Hsien , Fang Te-Chao
Published: September 2013

The novel roles of vitamin D were discovered and valued in this century. In addition to the maintenance of calcium and phosphorus balance, vitamin D regulates the function of the kidneys, heart, and immune system. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic roles have gained considerable attention. Vitamin D is also important for the maintenance of homeostasis by regulation of hormone secretion, cell proliferation, and differentiation. This paper will review these pleiotropic functions of vitamin D.
Isolation and Characterization of Limonoids from Kigelia africana
Authors: Jabeen Bushra , Riaz Naheed
Published: September 2013

Two new limonoids, 1-O-deacetyl-2a-methoxykhayanolide (1) and kigelianolide (2), together with deacetylkhayanolide E (3), 1-O-deacetyl-2α-hydroxykhayanolide E (4) and khayanolide B (5) were isolated from the ethyl acetate-soluble fraction of the methanolic extract of Kigelia africana. The structures of these limonoids (1-5) were elucidated by the combination of 1D (1H and 13C NMR) and 2D (HMQC, HMBC and COSY) NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (EIMS, HREIMS), and in comparison with literature data of related compounds. The structure of compound 1 was further confirmed by X-ray crystallography, and the absolute stereochemistry of compounds 1 and 2 was determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectroscopy. Limonoids 1-5 showed weak inhibitory activities against the enzymes acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrycholinesterase (BChE) and lipoxygenase (LOX) in a concentration-dependent manner with IC50 values in the ranges 137.5 - 225.2 μM for AChE, 185.4 - 241.5 μM for BChE and 281.2 - 189.6 μM for LOX
Synthesis of Functionalized Acetophenones by Formal [3+3] Cyclocondensations of 1,3-Bis(silyloxy)-1,3-butadienes with 3-Alkoxyand 3-Silyloxy-2-acetyl-2-en-1-ones
Authors: Dede Rüdiger , Riahi Abdolmajid , Shkoor Mohanad , Yawer Mirza A. , Hussain Ibrar , Kelzhanova Nazken , Abilov Zharylkasyn A. , Falodun Abiodun , Görls Helmar , Langer Peter
Published: September 2013

The TiCl4-mediated cyclization of 1,3-bis(silyloxy)-1,3-butadienes with 2-acetyl-1-silyloxybut-1- en-3-one and 3-acetyl-4-silyloxypent-3-en-2-one, readily available from 3-(formyl)acetylacetone and 3-(acetyl)acetylacetone (triacetylmethane), afforded a variety of functionalized acetophenones
India's Foreign Policy
Authors: Gupta Gauri Shankar
Published: September 2013

India is an ancient civilization with a multiethnic, multireligious and multilingual society. Freedom of thought and expression, democracy, nonviolence and tolerance form an integral part of Indian ethos. Since times immemorial these values have played an important role in the evolution of Indian civilization. As a result, India was able to absorb and assimilate alien cultures, religions and ideas, still retaining its distinctive identity. Because of this immense process of assimilation and absorption, Indian society is popularly called an ‘Indian Mosaic’. Today almost all possible religious, ethnic and cultural groups co-exist in India peacefully, making India the most pluralistic society in the world. Seventh largest in size, the country is home to over onesixth of humanity. In recent times India has been one of the fastest growing economies and in terms of purchasing power parity has been ranked as the fourth largest economic powerhouse in the world. Though pursuit of national interest remains the single most important guiding factor in determining a country’s foreign policy; national history, ethos and international realities are important factors impacting foreign policy imperatives. Therefore, at the very outset, I would like to briefly summarize the ancient Indian thoughts which have bearing on India’s foreign policy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i12.90 Mongolian Journal of International Affairs No.12 2005: 8-20
Democracy and Civil Society in Mongolia
Authors: Enkhsaikhan J
Published: September 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i12.91 Mongolian Journal of International Affairs No.12 2005: 21-27
Mongolia-US Trade and Economic Relations and Cooperation
Authors: Baatar Ts
Published: September 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i12.93 Mongolian Journal of International Affairs No.12 2005: 40-45
Tsedenbal's Mongolia and Communist Aid Donors: A Reappraisal
Authors: Szalontai Balazs
Published: September 2013

During the Cold War most Western observers saw the Mongolian Communist dictatorship headed by Yumjaagiin Tsedenbal as a puppet regime, unable and unwilling to defend the nation’s interests against the Soviet Union. Following the democratic transition of 1989, this narrative became widely accepted in Mongolia as well. Recently studied Hungarian archival documents show, however, that the Mongolian Communist leadership resented foreign domination and made great efforts to pursue an independent economic policy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i12.97 Mongolian Journal of International Affairs No.12 2005: 91-95
Joint Statement on Bilateral and Regional Cooperation between Mongolia and the United States of America
Authors: Batbold Mr , Armitage Mr
Published: September 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i12.99 Mongolian Journal of International Affairs No.12 2005: 104-106
Lignificação em calo de Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maiden
Authors: Silva Hulda Rocha e , Abreu Heber dos Santos , Deus Desiane Amaral de
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810538Este estudo objetivou verificar o processo de lignificação em calos de Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maiden, desenvolvidos em meio Murashige e Skoog (1962) (MS), com diferentes concentrações dos reguladores de crescimento: ácido 2,4 Diclorofenoxiacético (2,4-D) (4,53; 11,32; 22,65; 45,30; 90,60 μM) e cinetina (KIN-6-furfurilaminopurina) (0; 2,32; 4,65; 11,62; 23,25 μM). O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado com 5 (cinco) repetições, sendo cada unidade experimental constituída por 5 (cinco) frascos, contendo cada um três segmentos clonais, perfazendo-se 25 tratamentos. Os resultados foram estatisticamente avaliados e indicaram que concentrações mais altas de lignina foram associadas a uma concentração maior de 2,4 Diclorofenoxiacético (2,4-D) em relação à cinetina (KIN-6- furfurilaminopurina) e que o 2,4 Diclorofenoxiacético (2,4-D), quando usado na ausência de cinetina (KIN- 6-furfurilaminopurina), em concentrações mais baixas, pode estimular de forma mais intensa a lignificação, do que quando usado na ausência de cinetina em concentrações mais altas. Os resultados indicaram, ainda, que calos muito oxidados e menos friáveis, estão relacionados a tratamentos onde a concentração de lignina é de mediana a alta.
Estoque de nutrientes em consórcios de Eucalyptus urograndis, Acacia mearnsii e Zea mays
Authors: Viera Márcio , Schumacher Mauro Valdir , Kleinpaul Isabel Sandra
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810543Este estudo teve como objetivo determinar o estoque de nutrientes em povoamentos monoespecíficos e mistos de Eucalyptus urograndis e Acacia mearnsii em consórcio com Zea mays. A determinação da quantidade de nutrientes das espécies florestais foi realizada nos tratamentos: 100E (100% de eucalipto); 100A (100% de acácia-negra) e 50E:50A (50% de eucalipto + 50% de acácia-negra). Já, para o milho foi realizada em todos os tratamentos (100E; 100A; 50E:50A; 75E:25A - 75% de eucalipto + 25% de acácia-negra e 25E:75A - 25% de eucalipto + 75% de acácia-negra). O delineamento adotado foi de blocos ao acaso com três repetições. A magnitude do estoque de nutrientes na biomassa total do sistema agrossilvicultural foi: N > K > Ca > Mg > P > S, para os macronutrientes, e Mn > Fe > Zn > B > Cu, para os micronutrientes. Devido à grande exportação de nutrientes pela colheita da espiga do milho, devem-se manter os resíduos culturais nos sistemas agrossilviculturais e fazer reposição nutricional, principalmente de P, N, K, S e Zn, em cultivos seguintes, em decorrência da grande quantidade que é exportada pela extração da espiga, a qual chega a 75,3; 60,6; 59,9; 55,8 e 53,8%, respectivamente, em relação ao total estocado na biomassa agrícola.
Caracterização da fauna edáfica em plantios de Eucalyptus spp.
Authors: Garlet Juliana , Costa Ervandil Correa , Boscardin Jardel
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810545Solos florestais propiciam boas condições para o desenvolvimento e estabelecimento da fauna edáfica, devido principalmente à deposição de serrapilheira. No entanto, sistemas conduzidos em monoculturas por fornecerem um único substrato alimentar, podem propiciar o desenvolvimento de determinados grupos faunísticos em detrimento de outros, ocasionando surtos de espécies-praga. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a fauna edáfica e sua relação com as variáveis meteorológicas, em plantios de Eucalyptus spp. em Alegrete e São Francisco de Assis, Rio Grande do Sul. Este estudo foi conduzido em seis talhões de Eucalyptus, pertencentes a três espécies: Eucalyptus dunnii Maiden, Eucalyptus grandis Maiden e Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla S. T. Blake (clone híbrido) e duas idades (plantio em 2006 e 2007). Os talhões estavam localizados nas fazendas Cabanha da Prata e Chica Barbosa município de Alegrete, e Taquari município de São Francisco de Assis, Rio Grande do Sul. Para a amostragem da fauna edáfica, foram utilizadas armadilhas de solo, sendo instaladas oito armadilhas distantes dez metros uma da outra, distribuídas em duas linhas de plantio no centro de cada talhão, totalizando 48 armadilhas. As coletas foram realizadas quinzenalmente, de setembro de 2008 a agosto de 2009. Após contagem e identificação dos grupos taxonômicos, foram determinados os parâmetros de Riqueza, Abundancia e Índice de Diversidade de Shannon. Os parâmetros determinados foram analisados segundo modelo fatorial 3 x 2 (três espécies e duas idades) em delineamento inteiramente casualizado pelo teste F. Durante este levantamento foram coletados 8.811 espécimes distribuídos em 12 grupos taxonômicos, sendo que os grupos, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera e Diptera apresentaram as maiores porcentagens de indivíduos coletados: 31,1, 23,2 e 19,6 %, respectivamente. Os plantios com três anos de idade apresentaram maior número de indivíduos coletados, quando comparados com os talhões de dois anos de idade. As espécies Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla e Eucalyptus grandis apresentaram um número superior de indivíduos coletados, quando comparados com a espécie Eucalyptus dunnii, nas duas idades avaliadas. Assim, a espécie e a idade do plantio exerceram influência sobre os organismos coletados.
Classificação da vegetação secundária em estágios de regeneração da Mata Atlântica em Santa Catarina
Authors: Siminski Alexandre , Fantini Alfredo Celso , Reis Mauricio Sedrez
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810548Este estudo teve por objetivo determinar critérios e parâmetros para o inventário e classificação das formações secundárias no estado de Santa Catarina. Foram realizados inventários florestais em 160 parcelas em quatro diferentes estágios de sucessão natural, em todas as formações florestais do Estado. Entre os resultados, propõe-se que os inventários, para fins de classificação, incluam todos os indivíduos da parcela que tenham ≥ 5 cm de DAP e que a área basal seja a pricipal variável analizada para a classificação da formação vegetal em estádios sucessionais. Também propõe-se a reavaliação dos parâmetros definidos pela atual Resolução.
Duas novas espécies de Syagrus Mart. (Arecaceae) para o Brasil
Authors: Soares Kelen Pureza , Pimenta Ricardo Soares , Guimarães Carlos Alex
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810553Duas novas espécies de Syagrus Mart. (Arecaceae) do Brasil são descritas e ilustradas neste artigo: a primeira, Syagrus pompeoi K. Soares & R. Pimenta, espécie próxima de Syagrus procumbens Noblick & Lorenzi, da qual difere pela capacidade de perfilhar, pelo maior comprimento da raque das folhas (33-50 cm), contendo maior número de pinas de cada lado (8-15), pinas de consistência quase membranosa, com muitas nervuras transversais visíveis e pelo maior comprimento do pedúnculo da inflorescência (10-18 cm). A segunda, Syagrus santosii K. Soares & C. A. Guim., espécie próxima de Syagrus schyzophylla (Mart.) Becc., da qual difere por possuir frutos maiores (2,9-4,6 x 2,6-3,8 cm), com o epicarpo e o mesocarpo geralmente fendidos no ápice quando maduros, pelo maior endocarpo (2,7-4,2 x 2,4-3 cm), com endosperma homogêneo, pela maior quantidade de pinas de cada lado da folha e por possuir maiores flores pistiladas.
Caracterización y cuantificación de fragmentos de bosque nativo, en un sector del secano interior de la Región del Maule, Chile
Authors: Ormazábal Yony , Ávila Carlos , Mena Carlos , Morales Yohana , Bustos Óscar
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810556Los bosques mediterráneos, en general, han sufrido altos grados de fragmentación, principalmente por la acción antropogénica, consecuencia de las actividades productivas agro-ganaderas, asentamientos humanos y plantaciones forestales de especies exóticas de rápido crecimiento, derivando en una pérdida en la continuidad de los bosques naturales, y por ende, en una disminución de la biodiversidad. En este contexto, el objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el potencial que tiene el uso de imágenes satelitales y los Sistemas de Información Geográfica (SIG) para cuantificar y caracterizar la evolución espacial de los bosques nativos, en un sector del secano interior de la Región del Maule, Chile. El estudio se realizó con imágenes Landsat-5 TM de los años 2004 y 2008, que fueron clasificadas mediante el método supervisado donde fue necesario realizar tratamientos digitales previos, considerando correcciones atmosféricas y geométricas, para disminuir los errores de interpretación y medición. Dentro de los análisis, se incorporó información temática digital de uso del suelo, obtenida desde la Corporación Nacional Forestal (CONAF), y se integró además, una de las técnicas más recientes derivada de teledetección espacial para el estudio de cambios en la cobertura terrestre, llamada Rotación Controlada por Eje de No Cambio (RCEN). Finalmente, se estimaron índices de fragmentación, con la finalidad de caracterizar la configuración espacial del paisaje. A partir de los resultados de la clasificación digital fue posible estimar métricas de paisaje que muestran diferencias importantes en la estructura del área estudiada entre los dos períodos. Además, se generó una imagen de cambio 2004/2008 que permitió evaluar la consistencia de la técnica RCEN, demostrando la factibilidad de utilizar esta metodología alternativa para la detección de cambios, en términos de degradación y recuperación de masa boscosa.
Modelo linear misto para o incremento em área basal de árvores individuais de cedro (Cedrela odorata L.) na Amazônia ocidental, Brasil
Authors: Cunha Thiago Augusto da , Finger César Augusto Guimarães , Schneider Paulo Renato
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810557Dados confiáveis de crescimento de árvores são importantes para o manejo florestal. Características da árvore como o tamanho, arquitetura da copa e índices de competição, associados aos dados de crescimento da árvore são utilizados com freqüência como variáveis preditoras. Entretanto, a efetividade desse tipo de variáveis na modelagem do crescimento de árvores tropicais é pouco conhecida. Nesta pesquisa, reconstruímos o incremento periódico em área basal (IPG) de árvores individuais deCedrela odorata,amostradas na floresta Amazônica, para desenvolver um modelo de crescimento utilizando preditores potenciais como: (1) tamanho da árvore; (2) dados morfométricos; (3) competição; (4) posição sociológica e infestação de lianas na copa. Apesar da alta variação no tamanho da árvore e no crescimento, observamos que estas variáveis descrevem muito bem o IPG em nível de árvore individual. O modelo misto ajustado apresentou alta eficiência (R2=92.7 %) e estimou para três anos o IPG com casca em árvores com diâmetro a altura do peito variando desde 10 a 110 cm. A altura total, grau de esbelteza e formal de copa demonstraram elevada influência no crescimento em área basal e explicaram a maior parte da variação no crescimento (R2 parcial=87.2%). Variáveis de competição apresentaram influência negativa no IPG, entretanto, explicaram cerca de 7% da variação total. A introdução do parâmetro aleatório no modelo de regressão (modelo misto) conduziu a uma melhor aproximação aos dados observados (acurácia) com predição mais realística quando comparado ao modelo fixo.
Sobrevivência e crescimento inicial de pinhão-manso em função da época de plantio e do uso de hidrogel
Authors: Dranski João Alexandre Lopes , Pinto Júnior Artur Soares , Campagnolo Marcelo Angelo , Malavasi Ubirajara Contro , Malavasi Marlene de Matos , Guimarães Vandeir Francisco
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810560O trabalho objetivou comparar o efeito do uso do hidrogel e da época de plantio sobre a sobrevivência e o crescimento inicial de Jatropha curcas L. nas condições do oeste do Paraná. O experimento foi conduzido em Pato Bragado, PR, durante 2008 e 2009. Os tratamentos compreenderam o plantio de mudas de três procedências de pinhão-manso (Pedro J. Caballero, Nova Porteirinha e Janaúba) submetidas ou não à imersão do sistema radicular no ato do plantio em hidrogel previamente hidratado na concentração de 5,0 g L-1 em diferentes épocas de plantio (primavera, verão, outono e inverno). O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, arranjados em esquema de parcelas subdivididas com cinco repetições para cada época de plantio. Após o período de noventa dias, quantificou-se o efeito do polímero sobre a porcentagem de sobrevivência e o crescimento inicial por meio dos incrementos em altura e diâmetro do coleto, número de folhas, área foliar, área média da folha e área foliar específica, sendo as médias comparadas pelo teste Tukey a 5%. Os resultados indicaram que a imersão das raízes em hidrogel aumentou a porcentagem de sobrevivência das mudas no plantio da primavera em 6,7%. O uso do hidrogel não propiciou ganhos no crescimento das mudas de pinhão-manso, prejudicando o crescimento no plantio do inverno. Contudo, maiores incrementos foram obtidos no plantio da primavera. As procedências Pedro J. Caballero e Nova Porteirinha externaram maior capacidade de resposta ao desenvolvimento pós-plantio para as diferentes épocas de plantio.
Pigmentos fotossintéticos em clones de seringueira sob ataque de oídio
Authors: Gonzalez Gisely Cristina , Cataneo Ana Catarina , Fiori Maira dos Santos , Silva Giselaine de Souza e , Mischan Martha Maria , Furtado Edson Luis
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810561A seringueira [Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. ex Adr. de Juss.) Müell. Arg.] pode ser afetada pela ocorrência do fungo Oidium heveae, causador de uma das mais importantes doenças da seringueira, o oídio. Este trabalho teve o objetivo de conhecer alterações nos pigmentos fotossintéticos, um indicador de estresse oxidativo, em mudas de três clones de Hevea brasiliensis, RRIM600, GT1 e PR255, sob infecção por Oidium heveae. O experimento foi conduzido em ambiente aberto sob condições fotoperiódicas naturais e no início do período experimental, as plantas de seringueira que seriam infectadas foram pulverizadas com uma suspensão aquosa contendo Oidium heveae na concentração de 16 x 104 conídios mL-1. No dia da inoculação e após 48, 96 144 e 192 h, foram coletadas amostras foliares para determinação dos pigmentos fotossintéticos. Degradação nos pigmentos fotossintéticos no período de infecção foi observada nos clones de seringueira estudados; portanto, houve estresse oxidativo nos clones de seringueira. Não foi identificado material genético promissor para trabalhos de melhoramento genético visando à tolerância ao estresse por Oidium heveae.
O uso de água pelas plantações florestais – uma revisão
Authors: Caldato Silvana Lucia , Schumacher Mauro Valdir
Published: September 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509810562O objetivo desta revisão bibliográfica é apresentar alguns dos principais resultados e inferir sobre o estado de arte atual sobre o controvertido tema do uso de água pelas plantações florestais. Inúmeros trabalhos têm sido realizados nesta área em diferentes regiões, principalmente Austrália, África do Sul, Europa, Índia e Brasil. No entanto, segundo os pesquisadores, a polêmica persiste e é necessária a divulgação dos estudos científicos à comunidade para que os mitos sejam confrontados com a ciência. Portanto, esta revisão busca sintetizar resultados científicos sobre os principais aspectos hidrológicos das plantações (interceptação, transpiração e balanço hídrico), a relação entre a alta produtividade e a eficiência do uso da água e a importância do manejo florestal, visando contribuir para a sustentabilidade hidrológica. Por esta revisão, ficou claro que a relação entre as plantações florestais e a água depende da espécie, das condições ambientais e das práticas de manejo em escala regional tendo como foco a microbacia hidrográfica.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors Presenting as Surgical Emergencies: A Six-Patient Case Series
Authors: Fazilet Erozgen  , Hüseyin Kadioglu  , Mehmet Celal Kizilkaya  , Muzaffer Akinci  , Ahmet Kocakusak  , Adnan Hut  , Mehmet Gülen  , Ömer Güngörür  , Rafet Kaplan
Published: September 2013

Aim: To evaluate surgical and oncologic outcomes of patients who underwent urgent exploratory laparotomy, and successful surgical resection of gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Methods: Medical records were retrospectively searched from January 2005 to January 2012 for cases with gastrointestinal stromal tumors, who had undergone urgent exploratory laparotomy. Results: Of 51 patients operated for GISTs from January 2005 to January 2012, 6 cases had undergone urgent exploratory laparotomy and surgical resection. Our study group consisted of 4 female (66.6 %) and 2 male (33.4 %) patients with a median age of 60 years (range: 35-76 yrs). Their tumors were located in the stomach (n=1), jejunum (n=2), ileum (n=2), and rectum (n=1). For these tumors, total gastrectomy (n=1), segmental resection of the jejunum (n=2) or ileum (n=2), and left hemicolectomy (n=1) were performed followed by an uneventful postoperative course in all patients. According to Fletcher criteria, five tumors (83.3%) were classified as intermediate and high risk. No postoperative morbidity and mortality were noted. All patients received postoperative treatment with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, imatinib. Median length of the hospital stay was 8 (range: 6 to 12) days. With a median follow-up of 32 (range 3 to 64) months, disease-free survival rate was 100 percent. Conclusions: Although quite rare, patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors may suffer from occult gastrointestinal hemorrhage and abdominal pain as the first clinical manifestations leading to urgent exploratory laparotomy and surgical extirpation of the tumor.
The Regularities of Electrolytic Dissociation of Weak Dibasic and Tribasic Organic Wine Acids
Authors: Kvaratskhelia E. , Kvaratskhelia R. , Kurtanidze R.
Published: September 2013

The weak dibasic and tribasic organic acids in wine: tartaric, malic, citric and succinic acids are the important components having direct influence on various properties of wine. The regularities of electrolytic dissociation of these acids determine all their useful properties. With the aid of suggested by authors original method for analysis the complex equilibria of the processes of dissociation of weak multibasic organic acids the main dissociation parameters of tartaric, malic, citric and succinic acids in their dilute solutions: the values of usual and â€œpartialâ€ degrees of dissociation of all steps, the concentrations of all anions, hydrogen ions and undissociated acid molecules are determined. The concentration intervals of predominance of various charged and uncharged substances in dilute solutions of all above mentioned acids are also determined. The simple empirical equations for fast approximate calculation of the dissociation degrees and pH values are also suggested.
Optimising the Design of Fe0-Based Filtration Systems for Water Treatment: The Suitability of Porous Iron Composites
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Azizur , Karmakar Shyamal , Salama Heba , Gactha-Bandjun Nadège , K. Brice Donald Btatkeu , Noubactep Chicgoua
Published: September 2013

This study assessed the functionality of metallic iron (Fe0) filtration systems using porous iron composite (PIC) as an alternative to granular Fe0/aggregate mixtures. The usage of PIC for water treatment has many challenges which are related to the well-drained nature of highly porous filters and the corresponding increase in hydraulic conductivity (shorter contact time). In this article, the extent of (i) iron exhaustion and (ii) porosity loss in four filtration systems are critically discussed. The considered filtration systems are: (i) Fe0 alone, (ii) PIC alone, (iii) Fe0/sand and (iv) Fe0/pumice. In all four systems, mono-sized granular spherical particles are assumed. Sand and Fe0 are compact (f = 0 %) whereas PIC and pumice are porous (e.g. f = 40 %). Results demonstrated that under anoxic conditions (Fe3O4 as major corrosion products) Fe0 depletion is possible in all systems except Fe0 alone. Under oxic conditions (e.g. formation of Fe(OH)3), the PIC system exhibited the highest level of Fe0 depletion (58 %). The increasing order of sustainability was: Fe0 < Fe0/sand < Fe0/PM < PIC. These results suggested that manufacturing PIC with defined porosity and intrinsic reactivity is the key for more efficient usage of Fe0 for environmental remediation and water treatment.
Highly Selective Perfluoroalkylation of Unsaturated Molecules upon Photoirradiation in BTF as an Organic/Fluorous Hybrid Solvent
Authors: Tamai Taichi , Sonoda Motohiro , Ogawa Akiya
Published: September 2013

Benzotrifluoride (BTF), an eco-friendly solvent, can dissolve many organic and fluorous molecules because of the organic and fluorous motifs in its structure. Using BTF as solvent, we have developed a series of reactions for perfluoroalkylation of various unsaturated compounds upon photoirradiation with a Xe lamp through Pyrex. For example, alkynes, allenes, vinylcyclopropanes, isocyanides, diynes, dienes, and enynes successfully undergo regioselective perfluoroalkyliodination, perfluoroalkylselenation, and perfluoroalkyltelluration in BTF. In addition, the present photoinitiation procedure can be applied to trifluoromethylation
The Emergence of Low Carbon Energy Autonomy in Isolated Communities
Authors: Rae Callum , Bradley Fiona
Published: September 2013

This study examines the concept of switching from a centralised energy supply model towards a more autonomous model based on the use of low carbon technologies, from the viewpoint of isolated communities in the industrialised world. The study begins by establishing the importance of isolated communities within the field of energy research, and examining the concept of low carbon energy autonomy. It then analyses a number of exemplary case studies from across Europe, all of which have adopted (or are in the process of adopting) a highly autonomous energy supply model based on the use of low carbon technologies.
The communities studied exhibit many of the theoretical challenges and opportunities associated with low carbon energy autonomy, including the potential for stimulating socio-economic development. They also highlight the need for a supportive and structured policy framework and more transparent routes to project funding, in order to lessen the reliance for the success of such projects upon motivated community groups. The role of academia and its relationship with industry was found to be important and the findings call for much greater transparency and knowledge sharing between key stakeholders to facilitate increased development and deployment of low carbon energy autonomy in the future.
An Overview of the Downdraft Rice Husk Gasifier Technology for Thermal and Power Applications
Authors: Belonio Alexis T. , Ramos Joel A. , Regalado Manuel Jose C. , Ocon Victoriano B.
Published: September 2013

An overview of the downdraft rice husk gasifier (DDRHG) for thermal and power applications is herein presented. The different designs of the downdraft rice husk gasifier with reactor diameter ranging from 0.10 meter to 1.20 meter are discussed in detail. Smaller units of the DDRHG were found to have performed well in fixed bed. Larger units of the gasifier, on the other hand, are suited for moving-bed type making possible continuous operation without discharging and recharging the reactor. Present thermal applications of the gasifier includes: domestic cookstove, bakery oven, dryers, rotary kiln, steam boiler, and torrefyer. The DDRHG is also used to run surplus gasoline engines for driving water pump, micro-mill, and electric generator without any modification. The advantages and limitations of the gasifier as well as its environmental and socio-economic benefits over the use of conventional fossil-fueled systems are enumerated.
At present, the investment cost for the gasifier ranges from PHP2,000 to 2,500.00 (USD 1 = PHP40.00) per kWt for thermal application and PHP20,000.00 to 30,000 per kWe for power generation. The cost of using the gasifier is much cheaper than that of the conventional fossil fuel and the investment can be recovered in a shorter period.
Prospects of Rice Husk Gasification for Power Generation in Bangladesh
Authors: Das Barun Kumar , Mustafi Nirendra Nath , Hoque S.M. Najmul
Published: September 2013

Electricity is the basic requirement to promote socio-economic development. In recent years, Bangladesh is facing severe power crisis all over the country, but the rural areas are the most vulnerable. This acute electricity crisis along with the conventional fuel crunch is affecting every sector of the country and economy is being crippled. To reduce the dependency on fossil fuels, rice husk which are widely abundant agricultural waste from rice industry could play a vital role in this regards. Bangladesh is an agricultural country and produces huge quantity of rice every year. In the year 2011, the total rice production was around 50.63 million tones. Husk is the waste biomass produce during the rice processing, on average it accounts around 20% of the rice produced on weight basis (10.12 million tones). The potential of power generation from rice husk by gasification is around 310 MWe in Bangladesh. The power plant to be installed near the large rice mills `cluster areas’ in Dinajpur, Bogra, Naogaon, Chapainawabganj and Ishwardi with the surplus rice husk. This paper consolidates information from various studies on the availability of rice husk, its characterization and estimates possible power potential that can be realized.
Parque Nacional dos Campos Gerais (PR) e turismo: um olhar através da comunidade local
Authors: Baptista Leandro , Moreira Jasmine Cardozo
Published: September 2013

Este trabalho possui como objeto de estudo o Parque Nacional dos Campos Gerais (PNCG), localizado no centro-leste do Estado do Paraná e tem como objetivo geral uma análise da percepção dos moradores do Passo do Pupo, comunidade de entorno do Parque, sobre esta unidade de conservação. A metodologia se deu através de uma pesquisa qualitativa, com levantamento bibliográfico, visitas in loco e aplicação de vinte e um questionários com questões abertas e fechadas realizadas em vinte e uma moradias dispostas na comunidade. Buscou-se identificar com este estudo o interesse pelo Turismo destes moradores, no sentido de analisar o potencial de oferta como fator de desenvolvimento e sustentabilidade local. Como resultado, observou-se que a maior parte dos entrevistados mostra-se favorável ao PNCG e à participação na atividade turística.
25 ans plus tard… et toujours nécessaires! Les approches structurelles dans le champ de l’intervention sociale
Authors: Lapierre Simon , Levesque Joscelyne
Published: September 2013

De manière générale, les approches structurelles reposent sur les deux principes suivants : 1. reconnaître que les situations individuelles sont intimement reliées aux structures politiques, sociales et économiques; 2. reconnaître que la réalisation de changements significatifs dans les situations auxquelles les individus sont confrontés exige aussi des changements dans les structures politiques, sociales et économiques et que de tels changements sont possibles. Ainsi, les approches structurelles sont considérées comme étant des approches critiques, conflictuelles et radicales, tout comme les approches antiracistes et antioppressives, ainsi que certaines approches féministes. Elles s’appuient sur des valeurs de justice sociale, d’égalité et de solidarité. Le présent article s’intéresse aux dimensions théoriques et pratiques, mais se penche d’abord sur les défis auxquels sont confrontées les intervenantes1qui souscrivent aux approches structurelles dans l’intervention sociale contemporaine. La deuxième partie de l’article présente les principaux éléments d’analyse sur lesquels s’appuient les approches structurelles, ainsi que leur pertinence dans le contexte actuel. La troisième partie de l’article se penche davantage sur l’application de ces approches en fonction de trois cibles d’intervention (individuelle, groupe et collective) ainsi que sur les habiletés d’intervention nécessaires.
JEDAN PREDLOG ZA EFIKASNIJI PRORAČUN PARAMETARA KOD SLOŽENIH HEMIJSKIH REAKCIJA
Authors: Pejović Branko , Mićić Vladan , Tomić Milorad , Aleksić Vojislav
Published: September 2013

U prvom delu rada, za karakterističan primer složene hemijske reakcije, proanalizirano je nekoliko matematičkih metoda za rešavanje sistema diferencijalnih jednačina kojima se opisuje proces, a koje se najčešće koriste u inženjerskoj teoriji i praksi. Analiza je izvršena sa aspekta neophodnog matematičkog znanja, potrebnog vremena za rešavanje problema, mogućnosti greške kao i kontrole dobijenih rezultata. U drugom delu rada, dat je predlog za efikasnije rešavanje posmatranog problema pri čemu je primenjen princip redukcije sistema na jednu diferencijalnu jednačinu, koju je najpogodnije posmatrati kao nehomogenu jednačinu I reda sa konstantnim koeficijentima, zavisnu od vremena. Pokazano je da je predložena metoda pogodnija u odnosu na postojeće, s obzirom da ima određene prednosti i može se koristiti kao alternativa istim.
POVEZANOST MEHANIČKIH SVOJSTAVA PLETENINA I ERGONOMSKE UDOBNOSTI SPORTSKE ODJEĆE
Authors: Grujić Dragana , Rijavec Tatjana , Jevšnik Simona , Janjić Svjetlana
Published: September 2013

Kvalitet sportske odjeće se ocjenjuje preko njene toplotno fiziološke i ergonomske udobnosti. U ovom radu je ispitivana povezanost mehaničkih svojstava pletenina i ergonomske udobnosti odjeće. Sportska odjeća se izrađuje od različitih vrsta materijala koji vizuelno mogu izgledati isto, ali kada su u pitanju mehanička svojstva koja su uveliko povezana sa prilijeganjem i deformacijom odjeće u toku upotrebe, između njih može postojati značajna razlika.Za izradu ženskih biciklističkih hlača korištene su dvije vrste pletenina istih konstrukcijskih karaktristika ali različitih sirovinskih sastava. Od navedenih pletenina izrađena su dva modela ženskih biciklističkih hlača. Za izradu oba modela hlača korišteni su krojni dijelovi iste konstrukcije ali sa kombinacijama pletenina različite rastegljivosti za pojedine krojne dijelove radi postizanja bolje ergonomske udobnosti. Povezanost mehaničkih svojstava pletenina i ergonomske udobnosti modela ženskih biciklističkih hlača utvrđivana je kroz probe nošenja i subjektivno ocjenjivanje.
Non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors: a review on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety and tolerability
Authors: Usach Iris , Melis Virginia , Peris José‐Esteban
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type‐1 non‐nucleoside and nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are key drugs of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in the clinical management of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)/HIV infection.

Discussion

First‐generation NNRTIs, nevirapine (NVP), delavirdine (DLV) and efavirenz (EFV) are drugs with a low genetic barrier and poor resistance profile, which has led to the development of new generations of NNRTIs. Second‐generation NNRTIs, etravirine (ETR) and rilpivirine (RPV) have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and European Union, and the next generation of drugs is currently being clinically developed. This review describes recent clinical data, pharmacokinetics, metabolism, pharmacodynamics, safety and tolerability of commercialized NNRTIs, including the effects of sex, race and age differences on pharmacokinetics and safety. Moreover, it summarizes the characteristics of next‐generation NNRTIs: lersivirine, GSK 2248761, RDEA806, BILR 355 BS, calanolide A, MK‐4965, MK‐1439 and MK‐6186.

Conclusions

This review presents a wide description of NNRTIs, providing useful information for researchers interested in this field, both in clinical use and in research.
DNA methylation presents distinct binding sites for human transcription factors
Authors: Hu Shaohui , Wan Jun , Su Yijing , Song Qifeng , Zeng Yaxue , Nguyen Ha Nam , Shin Jaehoon , Cox Eric , Rho Hee Sool , Woodard Crystal , Xia Shuli , Liu Shuang , Lyu Huibin , Ming Guo-Li , Wade Herschel , Song Hongjun , Qian Jiang , Zhu Heng
Published: September 2013

DNA methylation, especially CpG methylation at promoter regions, has been generally considered as a potent epigenetic modification that prohibits transcription factor (TF) recruitment, resulting in transcription suppression. Here, we used a protein microarray-based approach to systematically survey the entire human TF family and found numerous purified TFs with methylated CpG (mCpG)-dependent DNA-binding activities. Interestingly, some TFs exhibit specific binding activity to methylated and unmethylated DNA motifs of distinct sequences. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, we focused on Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), and decoupled its mCpG- and CpG-binding activities via site-directed mutagenesis. Furthermore, KLF4 binds specific methylated or unmethylated motifs in human embryonic stem cells in vivo. Our study suggests that mCpG-dependent TF binding activity is a widespread phenomenon and provides a new framework to understand the role and mechanism of TFs in epigenetic regulation of gene transcription.