bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity Moderates the Association between Nicotine Dependence and Depression among U.S. Smokers
Authors: Loprinzi Paul D. , Walker Jerome F. , Kane Christy , Cardinal Bradley J.
Published: November 2013

Purpose.

Research demonstrates that nicotine dependence and depression are associated and that physical activity is effective in reducing depression symptoms. However, our understanding of the potential beneficial effects of physical activity on depression in current smokers is more limited. The purpose of this study was to examine whether physical activity moderates the association between nicotine dependence and depression in U.S. smokers.

Design.

Cross-sectional.

Setting.

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2006.

Subjects.

Four hundred forty-one current adult smokers.

Measures.

Participants wore an accelerometer for at least 4 days and completed questionnaires to assess nicotine dependence and depression.

Analysis.

Effect modification and statistical interaction models were used.

Results.

Both models were significant. With regard to the statistical interaction model, and after controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, comorbidity index, homocysteine, cotinine, total cholesterol, sedentary behavior, and vitamins C, D, and E, objectively measured physical activity moderated the association between nicotine dependence and depression (interaction variable: odds ratio = 3.43; 95% confidence interval: 1.02–11.51; p = .04).

Conclusion.

In this national sample of current smokers, physical activity moderated the association between nicotine dependence and depression. These results suggest that those individuals with nicotine dependence and who are less physically active are more likely to be depressed than what would be expected on the basis of the individual effects of nicotine and physical inactivity separately.
HESS Opinions "Forecaster priorities for improving probabilistic flood forecasts"
Authors: Wetterhall F. , Pappenberger F. , Alfieri L. , Cloke H. L. , Thielen-del Pozo J. , Balabanova S. , Daňhelka J. , Vogelbacher A. , Salamon P. , Carrasco I. , Cabrera-Tordera A. J. , Corzo-Toscano M. , Garcia-Padilla M. , Garcia-Sanchez R. J. , Ardilouze C. , Jurela S. , Terek B. , Csik A. , Casey J. , Stankūnavičius G. , Ceres V. , Sprokkereef E. , Stam J. , Anghel E. , Vladikovic D. , Alionte Eklund C. , Hjerdt N. , Djerv H. , Holmberg F. , Nilsson J. , Nyström K. , Sušnik M. , Hazlinger M. , Holubecka M.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Hydrological ensemble prediction systems (HEPS) have in recent years been increasingly used for the operational forecasting of floods by European hydrometeorological agencies. The most obvious advantage of HEPS is that more of the uncertainty in the modelling system can be assessed. In addition, ensemble prediction systems generally have better skill than deterministic systems both in the terms of the mean forecast performance and the potential forecasting of extreme events. Research efforts have so far mostly been devoted to the improvement of the physical and technical aspects of the model systems, such as increased resolution in time and space and better description of physical processes. Developments like these are certainly needed; however, in this paper we argue that there are other areas of HEPS that need urgent attention. This was also the result from a group exercise and a survey conducted to operational forecasters within the European Flood Awareness System (EFAS) to identify the top priorities of improvement regarding their own system. They turned out to span a range of areas, the most popular being to include verification of an assessment of past forecast performance, a multi-model approach for hydrological modelling, to increase the forecast skill on the medium range (>3 days) and more focus on education and training on the interpretation of forecasts. In light of limited resources, we suggest a simple model to classify the identified priorities in terms of their cost and complexity to decide in which order to tackle them. This model is then used to create an action plan of short-, medium- and long-term research priorities with the ultimate goal of an optimal improvement of EFAS in particular and to spur the development of operational HEPS in general.
IODP Expedition 339 in the Gulf of Cadiz and off West Iberia: decoding the environmental significance of the Mediterranean outflow water and its global influence
Authors: Hernández-Molina F. J. , Stow D. , Alvarez-Zarikian C. ,   Expedition IODP 339 Scientists
Published: November 2013

Abstract. IODP Expedition 339 drilled five sites in the Gulf of Cadiz and two off the west Iberian margin (November 2011 to January 2012), and recovered 5.5 km of sediment cores with an average recovery of 86.4%. The Gulf of Cadiz was targeted for drilling as a key location for the investigation of Mediterranean outflow water (MOW) through the Gibraltar Gateway and its influence on global circulation and climate. It is also a prime area for understanding the effects of tectonic activity on evolution of the Gibraltar Gateway and on margin sedimentation. We penetrated into the Miocene at two different sites and established a strong signal of MOW in the sedimentary record of the Gulf of Cadiz, following the opening of the Gibraltar Gateway. Preliminary results show the initiation of contourite deposition at 4.2–4.5 Ma, although subsequent research will establish whether this dates the onset of MOW. The Pliocene succession, penetrated at four sites, shows low bottom current activity linked with a weak MOW. Significant widespread unconformities, present in all sites but with hiatuses of variable duration, are interpreted as a signal of intensified MOW, coupled with flow confinement. The Quaternary succession shows a much more pronounced phase of contourite drift development, with two periods of MOW intensification separated by a widespread unconformity. Following this, the final phase of drift evolution established the contourite depositional system (CDS) architecture we see today. There is a significant climate control on this evolution of MOW and bottom-current activity. However, from the closure of the Atlantic–Mediterranean gateways in Spain and Morocco just over 6 Ma and the opening of the Gibraltar Gateway at 5.3 Ma, there has been an even stronger tectonic control on margin development, downslope sediment transport and contourite drift evolution. The Gulf of Cadiz is the world's premier contourite laboratory and thus presents an ideal testing ground for the contourite paradigm. Further study of these contourites will allow us to resolve outstanding issues related to depositional processes, drift budgets, and recognition of fossil contourites in the ancient record on shore. The expedition also verified an enormous quantity and extensive distribution of contourite sands that are clean and well sorted. These represent a relatively untapped and important exploration target for potential oil and gas reservoirs.
Establishment of the Coast Range ophiolite microbial observatory (CROMO): drilling objectives and preliminary outcomes
Authors: Cardace D. , Hoehler T. , McCollom T. , Schrenk M. , Carnevale D. , Kubo M. , Twing K.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. This project aimed to establish a subsurface microbial observatory in ultramafic rocks, by drilling into an actively serpentinizing peridotite body, characterizing cored rocks, and outfitting the boreholes for a program of long-term observation and experimentation to resolve the serpentinite-hosted subsurface biosphere. We completed drilling in August 2011, drilling two boreholes with core recovery and possibility for down-hole experimentation, and six smaller-diameter monitoring wells arrayed around the two primary holes, in the Coast Range ophiolite (CRO) locality in the UC-Davis McLaughlin Natural Reserve, Lower Lake, CA. Every effort was made during drilling to keep the cores and wells as free of drilling-induced contamination as possible: clean, purified water was used as drilling fluid, fluorescent microbead tracers were suspended in that water for quantification of drilling fluid penetration into the cores, and high resolution next generation sequencing approaches were used to characterize the microbial populations in the drill fluids and core materials. In December 2011, we completed installation of well pumps (slow flow bladder pumps) in the monitoring wells, and have deployed a set of in situ incubation experiments in the two uncased boreholes. Preliminary findings illustrate natural variability in actively serpentinizing strata, and confirm distinct groundwater flow regimes and microbial ecosystems in (a) shallow, surface-impacted soil water horizons and (b) deeper, ultramafic bedrock-sourced formation fluids.
A plan for a 5 km-deep borehole at Reykjanes, Iceland, into the root zone of a black smoker on land
Authors: Friðleifsson G. Ó. , Elders W. A. , Bignall G.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. A summary workshop report describing the progress made so far by the Iceland Deep Drilling Project (IDDP) is presented below. The report provides recommendations concerning technical aspects related to deep drilling, and invites international participation in both the engineering and the scientific activities of the next phase of the IDDP. No issues were identified at the workshop that should rule out attempting the drilling, sampling and testing of the proposed IDDP-2 well. Although technically challenging, the consensus of the workshop was that the drilling of such a hot deep well, and producing potentially hostile fluids, is possible but requires careful contingency planning. The future well will be explored for supercritical fluid and/or superheated steam beneath the current production zone of the Reykjanes geothermal field in SW Iceland. This deep borehole will provide the first opportunity worldwide to directly investigate the root zone of a magma-hydrothermal system which is likely to be similar to those beneath the black smokers on the world-encircling mid-ocean rift systems.
Critical Sámi Research as the Means of Finding Ways of Seeing
Authors: Sarivaara Erika , Uusiautti Satu , Määttä Kaarina
Published: November 2013

The Sámi form a small indigenous people living in four countries, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. The situation of the Sámi populations in these countries is challenging mostly because of colonial history, and new ways of researching and developing their conditions are greatly needed. The purpose of this article is to contemplate the potentials that the critical theory and research could offer to Sámi research and to indigenous research in general. The problems of cultural identity in relation to the mainstream society and within the indigenous community are discussed as the target of critical research and reflection. The value of critical research as the enhancement of emancipation and empowerment are evaluated.
Identification of a Novel Ryanodine Receptor Mutation Causing Malignant Hyperthermia
Authors: Valaskova Iveta , Dudova Silvie , Necasova Jana , Ostadalova Edita , Vanaskova Martina , Stepankova Dagmar , Schröderova Ivana , Gaillyova Renata , Kuglik Petr
Published: November 2013

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a potentially fatal autosomal dominant disorder of the skeletal muscle and is triggered in susceptible individuals by commonly used inhalation anaesthetics and depolarizing muscle relaxants. Around 80% of the affected family are linked to the ryanodine receptor (RYR1) gene. More than 300 mutations in RYR1 have been associated with the MH-susceptible phenotype. Here we report the identification by two independent methods of a novel mutation associated with the MH-susceptible phenotype in the RYR1 gene.
Influenza Vaccination in Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Galvao Tais F. , Silva Marcus T. , Zimmermann Ivan R. , Lopes Luiz Antonio B. , Bernardo Eneida F. , Pereira Mauricio G.
Published: November 2013

Objective. To assess the effects of the inactivated influenza virus vaccine on influenza outcomes in pregnant women and their infants.
Methods. We performed a systematic review of the literature. We searched for randomized controlled trials and cohort studies in the MEDLINE, Embase, and other relevant databases (inception to September 2013). Two researchers selected studies and extracted the data independently. We used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to assess the quality of the evidence. Results. We included eight studies out of 1,967 retrieved records. Influenza vaccination in pregnant women significantly reduced the incidence of influenza-like illness in mothers and their infants when compared with control groups (high-quality evidence) and reduced the incidence of laboratory-confirmed influenza in infants (moderate-quality evidence). No difference was found with regard to influenza-like illness with fever higher than 38°C (moderate-quality evidence) or upper respiratory infection (very-low-quality evidence) in mothers and infants. Conclusions. Maternal vaccination against influenza was shown to prevent influenza-like illness in women and infants; no differences were found for other outcomes. As the quality of evidence was not high overall, further research is needed to increase confidence and could possibly change these estimates.
Detection and identification of 'Candidatus Phytoplasma prunorum'in Prunus germplasm
Authors: Rubio-Cabetas M. J. , Sancho S.
Published: November 2013

The molecular characterization of the causal agent of diseases associated with several symptoms such as decline, yellowing,leaf roll and off-season growth in stone fruits made it possible to determine a common etiology, and the name ´European stone fruit yellows´ phytoplasma was proposed. Recently, the new taxonomical species description within the genus is 'Candidatus Phytoplasma prunorum'.A 2-yr survey was carried out in two different Prunus collections of the Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA) including European and Japanese plum genotypes of various species and several interspecific hybrids used as rootstocks. Both off-season growth in winter and decline were observed. In order to identify the phytoplasma suspected as a causal agent, two different PCR methods were applied to all inspected trees. The first method was a nested PCR with 16Sr X group-specific primers followed by RFLP analysis. Thesecond method was a direct PCR with specific primers for 'Ca P. prunorum' (Eca1/Eca2). In the most symptomatic treesthe presence of this phytoplasma was confirmed by at least one of the methods; negative results were obtained in asymptomatic trees. The nested PCR-RFLPs analysis was confirmed as a reliable method for routinary diagnosis rather than direct PCR.
The effect of gender and slaughter weight on loin and fat characteristics of pigs intended for Teruel dry-cured ham production
Authors: Latorre M. A. , Ripoll G. , García-Belenguer E. , Ariño L.
Published: November 2013

A total of 200 Duroc × (Landrace × Large White) pigs intended for Protected Designation of Origin Teruel dry-curedham manufacture was used for the study. The objective was to investigate the effect of gender (barrows and gilts) andslaughter weight (SW; 120, 125, 130, 135 or 140 kg) on Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle characteristics and the fatty acid (FA) profile of the subcutaneous fat. The LD from barrows had higher intramuscular fat (P<0.01), b* value (P<0.01),colour intensity (P<0.01 for c* and P<0.05 for Hº) and tenderness (P<0.05) than the LD from gilts. Fat from barrows had a higher saturated FA content (P<0.01) a lower polyunsaturated (P<0.001) and unsaturated FA content (P<0.01) than fat from gilts. On the other hand, intramuscular fat was increased (P<0.05) but moisture and L* (P<0.05), thawing (P<0.001) and cooking losses (P<0.01) decreased as SW increased. Polyunsaturated FA content decreased (P<0.001) and saturated FA proportion tended to increase (P<0.10) as the SW increased. It was concluded that barrows and gilts were adequate for both fresh meat and dry-cured ham production. An increase in SW from 120 to 140 kg impairs subcutaneous fat quality but improves some loin characteristics which are desirable for Teruel dry-cured pork production.
Market implications of new regulations: impact of health and nutrition information on consumer choice
Authors: Barreiro-Hurlé J. , Gracia A. , De-Magistris T.
Published: November 2013

Consumer concern for health impacts of diet has increased the use of nutritional information and claims by agro-food industry. Under the current European legislation on nutrition and health claims and on nutritional labelling, three type of nutritional information can be provided on food products: nutritional facts panel, nutritional claims and health claims. In this context, the aim of the paper is to assess how much consumers' value the provision of three types of nutritional information in a meat product not precisely perceived as healthy, "pork Frankfurt sausages", using a choice experiment. The data comes from a survey conducted in two Spanish medium size towns (Zaragoza and Córdoba) during 2007. A mixed logit model is used to estimate the effect of the nutrition information attributes on consumers' utility and derive their willingness to pay. Results show that all three nutritional and health information items are valued by consumers, although preferences are heterogeneous. Health claims are significantly higher valued than nutritional attributes (facts panel or claim). Estimated market shares show that the use of any of the available labelling options will obtain significant market success even at prices including premiums above current price levels.
Assessing the socio-economic impacts of drought in the Ebro River Basin
Authors: Pérez y Pérez L. , Barreiro-Hurlé J.
Published: November 2013

Droughts can be defined as a significant reduction in water resources during a long period of time in a large spatial area which leads to negative consequences. These episodes have traditionally been regarded as an agricultural problem and thus their economic impacts have been considered limited to the rural environments. However, current water uses cover a broader scope of economic activity and water deficits generate impacts in a greater number of sectors. The specific objective of this paper is to estimate the direct and indirect economic impacts of a drought episode in the Ebro River Basin, using available statistical information within an Input-Output framework. Direct impacts are assessed for the two main sectors affected by this drought, agriculture and energy production, and with these effects, the indirect impacts on the wider economic activity are derived for the whole river basin. Results show that this climatic episode resulted in a direct gross added value loss of over Euros 482 million in the two sectors considered with an additional induced production loss of Euros 377 million. This reduction in activity resulted also in a reduction of over 11,000 jobs.
Developing marketing strategies for Jiloca saffron: a price hedonic model
Authors: Sanjuán-López A.I. , Resano-Ezcaray H. , Camarena-Gómez D.M.
Published: November 2013

The paper examines the retail price structure of saffron currently marketed in the Spanish market, with special emphasis on the assessment of the region of origin and its certification as tools of differentiation. The motivation lies on the search for effective marketing tools for Jiloca saffron (Aragón) that in turn may contribute to preserve this traditional agricultural sector threatened by progressive abandonment. An hedonic price regression is estimated for this purpose, where the functional form is empirically determined. The prices and product characteristics have been collected from labels of saffron references either found on the shelves of representative retail shops in the main city of Aragon (Zaragoza) or on the internet shopping services that the main Spanish distribution chains offer. Results show that higher prices are attached for saffron distributed at supermarkets and Gourmet shops, marketed in threads, packaged in glass, and which carries a brand owned by a processor specialized in the processing and marketing of saffron. Currently, the recognition of Jiloca origin does not carry a premium, contrary to what happens to La Mancha, whilst the Protected Designation of Origin reinforces the economic value of La Mancha origin.
Phytostabilization of cadmium contaminated soils by Lupinus uncinatus Schldl.
Authors: Ehsan M. , Santamaría-Delgado K. , Alderete-Chavez A. , De la Cruz-Landero N. , Jaén-Contreras D. , Augustine Molumeli P.
Published: November 2013

Phytoremediation offers the benefits of being in situ, low cost and environmentally sustainable. Lupinus species is starting to generate interest for phytoremediation of soils showing intermediate metal pollution. The aim of this study was to explore the accumulating behavior and tolerance of Lupinus uncinatus Schldl. towards increasing Cd concentrations in soil. For this purpose the effects of different Cd treatments on plant growth, survival, metal tolerance, Cd accumulation and distribution in various plant organs were investigated. An 18 week pot trial was performed under greenhouse conditions. Cd was added as CdCl2.2.1/2H2O at the rate of 0, 3, 6 and 9 mg Cd/kg soil at three different occasions (after 4th, 12th and 15th week of plant growth) with four replicates. The Cd treatments applied, thus, were 9, 18 and 27 mg/kg. Cd inhibited plant height and number of leaves and induced a significant change in dry matter yield of roots, stems and leaves. Metal tolerance indices of 88, 82 and 49% were obtained for 9, 18 and 27 mg Cd/kg treatments. The maximal shoot Cd concentration (stem+leaves) of 540 mg Cd/kg dry matter was found at 27 mg Cd/kg treatment. The poor translocation of Cd from roots to shoot was evident from shoot:root ratios
Short communication. Potential to mitigate anthropogenic CO2 emissions by tillage reduction in dryland soils of Spain
Authors: Alvaro-Fuentes J. , Cantero-Martinez C.
Published: November 2013

Spain is one of the countries with the highest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the EU-27. Consequently, mitigation strategies need to be reported and quantified to accomplish the goals and requirements of the Kyoto Protocol. In this study, a first estimation of the carbon (C) mitigation potential of tillage reduction in Mediterranean rainfed Spain is presented. Results from eight studies carried out in Spain under rainfed agriculture to investigate the effects of no-tillage (NT) and reduced tillage (RT) compared with conventional tillage (CT) on soil organic carbon (SOC) were used. For current land surface under conservation tillage, NT and RT are sequestering 0.14 and 0.08 Tg C yr-1, respectively. Those rates represent 1.1% and 0.6% of the total CO2 emissions generated from agricultural activities in Spain during 2006. Alternatively, in a hypothetical scenario where all the arable dryland was under either NT or RT management, SOC sequestration would be 2.18 and 0.72 Tg C yr-1 representing 17.4% and 5.8% of the total 2006 CO2 equivalent emissions generated from the agricultural sector in Spain. This is a significant estimate that would help to achieve GHG emissions targets for the current commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol.
Accuracy and precision of GPS receivers under forest canopies in a mountainous environment
Authors: Valbuena R. , Mauro F. , Rodriguez-Solano R. , Manzanera J. A.
Published: November 2013

Georeferencing field plots by means of GPS/GLONASS techniques is becoming compulsory for many applications concerning forest management and inventory. True coordinates obtained in a total station traverse were compared against GPS/GLONASS occupations computed from one navigation-grade and three survey-grade receivers. Records were taken under a high Pinus sylvestris L. forest canopy situated in a mountainous area in central Spain. The horizontal component of the absolute error was a better descriptor of the performance of GPS/GLONASS receivers compared to the precision computed by the proprietary software. The vertical component of absolute error also failed to show the effects revealed when the horizontal one was studied. These differences might be critical for applications involving high-demanding surveys, in which a comparison against a terrestrially surveyed ground truth is still mandatory for accuracy assessment in forested mountainous areas. Moreover, a comparison of diverse Differential GPS/GLONASS techniques showed that the effect of lengthening the baseline and lowering the logging rate was not significant in this study. Differences among methods and receivers were only observed for recording periods between 5 and 15 minutes. The hand-held receiver was inappropriate for plot establishment due to its inaccuracy and a low rate of fixed solutions, though it may be used for forest campaigns tolerating low precision or permitting the employment of periods of 20 minutes or longer for plot mensuration.
Dietary CLA supplementation and gender modify fatty acid composition of subcutaneous and intramuscular fat in Iberian × Duroc finishing heavy pigs
Authors: Cordero G. , Isabel B. , Menoyo D. , Daza A. , Morales J. , Piñeiro C. , Lopez-Bote C. J.
Published: November 2013

The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of dietary conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) enrichment for finishing heavy fatty pigs on performance, carcass traits and fatty acid composition in subcutaneous and intramuscular fat (IMF), including CLA main isomers concentration. Forty castrated Iberian × Duroc pigs, half males and half females, with 120 (±2.83) kg live weight were used. Pigs were fed experimental diets containing two levels (0 and 1%) of CLA. No effect of CLA was observed on backfat thickness or IMF concentration. In subcutaneous backfat, dietary CLA increased the C16:0, C18:0, c9,t11-CLA , t10,c12-CLA and saturated fatty acids (SFA) proportion and decreased those C18:1 n-9, C18:2 n-6, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) proportions and MUFA/SFA and C18:1 n-9/C18:0 and C16:1 n-7/C16:0 ratios. In the IMF, dietary CLA increased C16:0, SFA, c9,t11 and t10,c12 proportions and reduced C18:1 n-9 and MUFA, MUFA/SFA and C18:1 n-9/C18:0 ratios, but showed no effect on C18:2 n-6 and PUFA proportion. Subcutaneous backfat fatty acid profile was affected by gender, but no gender effect on intramuscular fatty acid profile was observed. CLA isomer accumulation was lower in heavy pigs compared to the lean genotype probably as a consequence of the higher carcass fat concentration in the former.
Genetic diversity among common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Greek landraces and commercial cultivars: nutritional components, RAPD and morphological markers
Authors: Mavromatis A. G. , Arvanitoyannis I. S. , Korkovelos A. E. , Giakountis A. , Chatzitheodorou V. A. , Goulas C. K.
Published: November 2013

The genetic diversity among the main local landraces and commercial cultivars of P. vulgaris L. cultivated in Greece, was estimated by studying the morphological, agronomical and physicochemical traits along with molecular data analysis using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD markers). Cluster analysis was conducted on similarity estimates using the UPGMA algorithm. Application of cluster analysis resulted in a dendrogram representing the genetic relationship among landraces and main bean cultivars grown in Greece. A wide genetic variation was observed among collected local bean landraces in morphological characteristics such as seed color, seed size and growth habit. According to agronomic performance, significant differences were found in number and weight of pods per plant. Variation in protein and fat content among landraces and commercial cultivars was also detected. Moreover, in some landraces like Kastoria and Byzitsa M/M extremely high values for protein content (28.6% and 27.0% respectively) were recorded. Such values were greater than the average protein content previously recorded for other cultivars of this species. Genetic similarity estimated from molecular analysis with RAPDs, seemed not to be related with the seed morphological characteristics and agronomic performance. Only qualitative parameters like growth habit and occasionally geographical origin of landraces were positively correlated with the molecular classification. Local bean landraces were classified in three subgroups whereas the commercial cultivars formed another separate group underlining the narrow genetic base of cultivars.
Influence of nitrogen fertilization on K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ concentrations and on its bioindicators in roots and leaves of green bean plants
Authors: Sánchez-Chávez E. , Muñoz-Marquez E. , Garcia-Bañuelos M. L. , Anchondo-Najera A. , Guerrero-Prieto V. M. , Nuñez-Barrios A. , Ruiz-Saez J. M. , Romero-Monreal L. M.
Published: November 2013

The pyruvate kinase (PK) and ATPase activities taking part in nitrogen (N) assimilation is essential for the growth and development of plants. Studies on the kinetics of these enzymes reveal that its activities are dependent of the cofactors K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+. Therefore, the objective of the present work was to determine the effect of different doses of N on enzymatic activities of ATPase and PK as potentials biochemical indicators of the levels of K+, Mg2+, and Ca2+ in the roots and leaves of green bean plants. The N was applied to the nutrient solution as NH4NO3 at the following rates: 1.5, 3.0, 6.0, 12.0, 18.0, and 24.0 mM of N. These results indicate that deficient conditions of N (N1 and N2) were characterized by the lowest accumulation of K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ in both total and soluble forms, and also minimum activities of PK and ATPase induced by K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+, with respect to the activity of basal PK and ATPase; this could mean near optimum conditions for these cations. On the contrary, high-N treatments (N4, N5 and N6) were characterized by presenting decreasing concentrations of total and soluble K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ in roots and leaves of green bean plants; however, the activities of PK and ATPase induced with K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ were increased reaching their maximum activity with respect to basal PK and ATPase, both enzymes reflecting the level of cations in roots and leaves, hence being considered as good physiological bioindicators of these cations.
Willingness to pay for biodiesel in Spain: a pilot study for diesel consumers
Authors: Giraldo L. , Gracia A. , Do Amaral E.
Published: November 2013

One of the priorities of the European Union is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to contribute significantly to climate change mitigation. The aim of this paper is to analyze consumers’ valuation of one type of renewable energy which is important to reach the European emission reduction targets, biodiesel, and to assess the extra price consumers are willing to pay to use biodiesel instead of conventional diesel. In order to achieve these goals, a market survey has been carried out in Aragón (Spain) to collect primary data from diesel consumers. A choice experiment has been used to assess willingness to pay for biodiesel. Results suggest that the consumers’ level of knowledge of biodiesel is not very high although consumers’ perception of the product is quite favourable because they believe biodiesel is less pollutant and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, compared to conventional diesel. Actual consumption of biodiesel is still very low. However, consumers are willing to pay 5% extra to fill up with biodiesel instead of its conventional counterpart.
Family dairy farms in the Podlasie province, Poland: farm typology according to farming system
Authors: Castel J. M. , Madry W. , Gozdowski D. , Roszkowska-Madra B. , Dabrowski M. , Lupa W. , Mena Y.
Published: November 2013

The aim of this paper is to establish a farm typology according to the dairy farming systems in the western part of the Podlasie province. Data of 39 variables was collected by a survey to owners of 123 family farms. A two-stage multivariate analysis was conducted in order to determine farm typology. Three principal components were detected, explaining 80.4% of the total variance. The cluster analysis identified five groups of farms. In two groups the cow productivity is the biggest in the area. A third group contains the smallest and lowest cow productivity farms, with high proportion of non-agricultural activities. One of the two remaining groups has better soil quality and medium cow productivity. The other group has low or medium soil quality but cow productivity is higher than in the fourth group. The SWOT analysis shows different weaknesses and strengths for different groups, as well as those common to a larger number of groups. Weaknesses are related to small farm size, large number of workers, low or medium soil quality and low or medium level of technology. Strengths are related to a large share of fodder crops, low livestock density, diversification of agrarian activities and acceptable cow productivity. On the other hand, general opportunities are linked to the EU-CAP evolution and to the presence of cooperatives in the region, whereas general threats derive from a hypothetic increase of feed prices and quantity of milk produced in the EU, which could lead to a fall in milk prices.
Allelic variation in HMW glutenins in Spanish wheat landraces and their relationship with bread quality
Authors: Giraldo P. , Rodriguez-Quijano M. , Simon C. , Vazquez J. F. , Carrillo J. M.
Published: November 2013

The allelic variation of high molecular weight glutenins as principal determinants of bread quality has been analyzed in 165 Spanish wheat ( Triticum aestivum ssp. vulgare L.) landraces provided by the Plant Genetic Resources Centre. The identification by standard electrophoresis techniques has been supported by a new PCR screening method, allowing the identification of the 2•• glutenin subunit from the Glu-A1 locus in some landraces. The relation of high molecular weight glutenins and bread quality has been evaluated by SDS-sedimentation tests and mixographs. A positive influence on quality has been found for the 2•• glutenin subunit from the Glu-A1 locus, pairs 7 + 8 and 13 + 16 from the Glu-B1 locus, and pair 5 + 10 from the Glu-D1 locus. The presence of a wide range of values for quality traits in landraces with the same high molecular weight glutenin composition points to the possible influence of other prolamins such as the low molecular weight glutenins. Their influence on bread quality will be assessed in future studies. A complete description of the high molecular weight glutenin composition and quality values of all the landraces analyzed in this study is provided for use in wheat breeding programs.
New species of Desmiphorini (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) from the Reserva Biológica Alberto Manuel Brenes, Alajuela, San Ramón, Costa Rica
Authors: Galileo M. H. M. , Esteban-Duran J. R.
Published: November 2013

A new species of the genus Esaguasu Galileo and Martins, 2007, Esaguasu brenensis sp. nov. is described from the unique specimen collected during 2007 in the Reserva Biológica Alberto Manuel Brenes, San Ramón, Alajuela, Costa Rica.
Evaluation of soil nitrogen availability by growing tufts of nitrophilic species in an intensively grazed biodiverse legume-rich pasture
Authors: Rodrigues M. A. , Gomes V. , Dias L. G. , Pires J. , Aguiar C. , Arrobas M.
Published: November 2013

Biodiverse legume-rich pastures (BLRP) have been recommended for extensive animal production since they can improve productivity and pasture quality. However, the consequences for the N balance within the agro-system, due to the increase in biological N 2 fixation, must be monitored. A field trial was carried out to evaluate the soil N availability in a BLRP in comparison with an adjacent unsown pasture. The field experiment consisted of growing tufts of nitrophilic species (turnip, Brassica campestris and rye, Secale cereale) in the pastures rounded by PVC rings. Soil inorganic-N levels were monitored during a period of one year. The potentially available soil N was determined by growing ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) in a pot experiment and carrying out several chemical extraction methods. The mean values of N recovered by field-grown turnip and rye were, respectively, 30.6 and 31.1 kg ha–1 in BLRP, not statistically higher than that recovered in the unsown pasture. This is consistent with the very low levels of soil inorganic-N observed both in BLRP and the unsown pasture. Nitrogen recovered by ryegrass grown in pots was significantly higher in the soil collected from the BLRP than in soil from the unsown pasture. In this study, plant-available inorganic-N appeared as a strong limiting factor for the growth of the non-legume component. The BLRP seems to be currently environmentally sound, since the risk of N loss is practically non-existent. However, the potentially mineralisable organic N is increasing, which requires a further monitoring of the soil N dynamic as the pasture ages.
Short communication.Variability of fatty acid and mineral content in linseed (Linum usitatissimum) lines from a range of European sources
Authors: Kiralan M. , Gokpinar F. , Ipek A. , Bayrak A. , Arslan N. , Kok M. S.
Published: November 2013

Linseed (Linnum usitatissimum) has recently gained popularity as a health food product. It has high levels of fatty acids and minerals, giving it characteristics beneficial for functional foods. This research is a comparative analysis of the fatty acid and mineral content of 23 European linseed lines. The levels of seven fatty acids were analysed using an Agilent 6890 N GC. Alfa-linolenic acid (ALA) (C18:3, n-3) was the most predominant, ranging from 49.4 to 56.4%, followed by oleic (C18:1, n-9; 19.8 to 28.8%), linoleic (C18:2, n-6; 10.8 to 16.0%), palmitic (C16:0, 4.1 to 6.2%) and stearic (C18:0, 3.3 to 7.1%) acids. In contrast arachidonic (C20:0) and gadoleic (C20:1) acids were only found at trace levels. One-way ANOVA test showed significant differences between the lines in terms of saturated and unsaturated fatty acid content (p < 0.05). A negative correlation (r = –0.74) exists between levels of ALA and oleic acid. The levels of ten minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn and B) were also determined and showed significant variability between lines. The results can be used to assist variety selection in targeted breeding programs.
Responses of Phalaris minor Rezt. and Phalaris brachystachys Link to different levels of soil water availability
Authors: Alcantara C. , Jimenez-Hidalgo M. J. , Saavedra M.
Published: November 2013

Phalaris brachystachys and Phalaris minor are common and troublesome weeds in winter cereals in Mediterranean countries. Different distribution and soil preferences have been found for each species in Andalusia (southern Spain). In irrigated fields P. minor is more frequent while P. brachystachys has extended its range to semiarid provinces with low rainfall. This different adaptation to irrigation conditions is difficult to explain considering aspects of their biology, herbicide tolerance, or cultivation practices. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of different soil water availabilities over growth and reproductive aspects to explain the differences found in ecology and distribution of P. brachystachys and P. minor. The experiment was conducted under greenhouse controlled conditions using five levels of water availability: field capacity, light drought, moderate drought, severe drought and extreme drought. Differences between species and among treatments were found in plant height, biomass, tiller number, and reproductive traits. Field capacity and light drought treatments favoured biomass, tiller number, and panicle number in P. minor. In contrast, P. brachystachys had a positive response only in moderate drought and increased the percentage of mature panicle with increasing drought levels. These results could explain the wider distribution of P. brachystachys in fields without supplemental irrigation in semiarid areas, due to its adaptation to moderate drought conditions. It may also clarify the greater frequency of P. minor in irrigated fields and in areas with higher rainfall.
Selection of Trichoderma spp. isolates antagonistic to Rosellinia necatrix
Authors: Ruano-Rosa D. , Del Moral-Navarrete L. , Lopez-Herrera C. J.
Published: November 2013

Fifty-six bulk isolates of Trichoderma spp. from avocado (Persea americana Mill.), carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.), litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn), rice (Oryza sativa L.) and sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) crops located in southern Spain were evaluated for antagonism against one isolate of Rosellinia necatrix Prill. Isolates of both types of fungi were tested in dual and cellophane culture. The origin, cultural characteristics, overgrowth sporulation and staining of growth medium were recorded. As a result, 21 Trichoderma bulk isolates were selected and their corresponding monoconidial isolates were evaluated as above. Next eight monoconidial Trichoderma isolates with the largest in vitro antagonism were selected, and they were additionally tested against nine representative isolates of R. necatrix from nine virulence groups. These were established after pathogenicity tests on 57 isolates of R. necatrix from diseased avocado orchards in southern Spain. These monoconidial Trichoderma isolates were considered as potential biological control agents with a high potential for effective control of white root rot of avocado.
Phosphorous and nitrogen changes in compost-amended schist soils in vineyards in the D.O. Priorat wine-producing area (NE Spain)
Authors: Ramos M. C. , Oliva E. , Nacci S.
Published: November 2013

The impact, on nitrogen and phosphorous dynamics, of applying compost at different rates was investigated in soils developed on schist in new terraced vineyards (NTV) and in undisturbed areas (NC). Repacked soil columns amended with 0 (control), 50 t ha –1 (T1) and 100 t ha–1 (T2) of compost were studied under laboratory conditions simulating both situations. The columns were maintained for 1 year, during which time a total of 300 mm of simulated rainfall was applied in ten 30 mm applications. Soil organic matter (OM), nitrogen and phosphorous contents were analysed at the end of the study period and leachates were analysed after each simulated rainfall event. Significant differences in nitrate leaching were observed between the control and the treated soils and these differences were greater in the NC (control = 1.368 g, T1 = 1.526 g and T2 = 1.686 g) than in the NTV soils (control = 0.61 g, T1 = = 1.068 g and T2 = 1.283 g). The relative effect was greater in the NTV soils (T1/control = 1.11 vs. 1.75 and T2/control = 1.23 vs. 2.1 for NC and NTV, respectively). The nitrate concentration in the leached water reached up to 400 mg L–1, which implied a risk of groundwater pollution. Phosphorous losses through leaching were very low with concentrations of < 0.15 mg L–1, without any significant differences between treatments. The phosphorous concentrations in the surface horizon increased by 50.8% in T1 and by 66.8% in T2 in the NC soils, compared with increases of 20.3% and 38%, respectively, in the NTV soils. Due to the high infiltration capacity of the study soils, leaching effects must be considered in order to prevent groundwater pollution.
Contra os direitos humanos
Authors: Žižek Slavoj
Published: November 2013

Álibi para intervenções militares, sacralização para a tirania do mercado, base ideológica para o fundamentalismo do politicamente correto: pode a “ficção simbólica” dos direitos universais serem recuperada com vistas a uma politização progressiva das relações sócio-econômicas vigentes?
Per scientiam ad justitiam! matrimonio igualitario en Argentina
Authors: Figari Carlos
Published: November 2013

O presente texto é uma versão condensada das considerações de cientistas do Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) e pesquisadores/as da Argentina, sobre a lei de casamento universal e dos direitos das famílias lésbicas, gays, bissexuais e transgêneros. Discutem-se os aspectos legais, supostamente fundamentados em uma “lei natural”, que omite e, em conseqüência, discrimina outras formas de organização sexual, de casamento, de constituição de relações parentais e de organizações familiares. Destaca-se que o acesso ao casamento não esgota as demandas de igualdade civil, política e social que devem continuar em pauta para fazer viável a vida tanto das pessoas LGBTTI, como de seus filhos/as. São referenciados vários estudos realizados com famílias homoparentais que não evidenciam diferenças significativas de famílias heterossexuais, colocando-se em destaque que as qualificações éticas e políticas são realizadas pelos seres humanos uma vez que a natureza, em si mesma, não tem vontade, nem capacidade de ação ou de julgamento.
A ideologia de gênero na publicidade contemporânea
Authors: Mendes Débora
Published: November 2013

Ao estudar a publicidade contemporânea, reconhece-se a necessidade de conciliar a perspectiva clássica – dos estudos macrossociológicos – com as teorias pós-modernas (que abordam a subjetividade e a identidade). Essa compatibilização se verifica também nos estudos feministas, representados nesse artigo por Lauretis (1994) e Hollanda (1994). Na tentativa de entender essa necessária conciliação, o texto começa traçando um breve esboço acerca da dominação e do poder, para, em seguida, buscar demonstrar como as teóricas feministas, ao relacionarem tais correntes, contribuíram para o desenvolvimento da teoria social. Tal aproximação se verifica, por exemplo, no conceito ideologia de gênero, que traz a ideia de formação das subjetividades e das identidades nos e pelos processos sociais abarcando, simultaneamente, os processos estruturais que atuam na produção publicitária e reforçam o padrão androcêntrico.
A ascensão do tema dos direitos humanos no pós-guerra fria: a conferência de Viena (1993)
Authors: Hernandez Matheus de Carvalho
Published: November 2013

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar a Conferência Mundial para os Direitos Humanos de Viena (1993) como um marco em matéria de direitos humanos. A idéia central é demonstrar dois movimentos. Primeiro que a Conferência teve papel importante na universalização dos direitos humanos como ponto central na agenda dos Estados e como issue-area nas relações internacionais. O segundo refere-se à Conferência como contribuição para o processo de “flexibilização da soberania”. O artigo está dividido em três eixos: na primeira se discutem os antecedentes que envolveram a Conferência de Viena nos anos 1990; depois se discute a relação entre direitos humanos e soberania estatal no sistema internacional; e, por fim, uma terceira seção que visa relacionar os dois movimentos a partir dos debates da Conferência.
Tratar as coisas como fatos sociais: metamorfoses nos estudos sobre cultura material
Authors: Leitão Débora Krischke , Pinheiro-Machado Rosana
Published: November 2013

Procuramos analisar como a cultura material foi abordada na Antropologia, ao longo de alguns momentos de sua história. Discutimos igualmente propostas contemporâneas, surgidas, em sua maioria, nos estudos sobre consumo. Por último, sugerimos suas possíveis contribuições, discutindo em que medida a transformação na abordagem antropológica da cultura material traz inovações e provocações para que repensemos nossas práticas.