bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional leaf traits of understory species: strategies to different disturbance severities
Authors: Prado Júnior J. , Schiavini I. , Vale V. , Lopes S. , Arantes C. , Oliveira AP.
Published: June 2015

The specific leaf area (SLA) has been related to environmental disturbances, showing a positive correlation between the disturbances intensities and SLA in a plant community. These studies, however, assessed the responses of plant community as a whole, neglecting species attributes, such as the position in the vertical stratum of forests. Considering the importance of SLA to understand forest ecological processes, this study aimed to determine the influence of the disturbance regime on the SLA of understory species, considering that, unlike for communities as a whole, an increase in the disturbance intensity implies a decrease in SLA of understory species. This study was conducted in nine understories of seasonal forests in Brazil. The most abundant species were selected and their SLA were evaluated. The variability of SLA among populations in different forests was analyzed by Student’s t-tests. The SLA of the understories (SLAU) was also compared by an adaptation of the Community-weighted mean index. The comparison of species SLA showed significant differences among the populations of understories under different disturbance regime, showing a decrease in SLA with an increase in the disturbance intensity. Similar results were found for the SLA of understories communities (SLAU), corroborating our hypothesis. The correlation between a reduction in species SLA and in SLA of understory with an increase in disturbance intensity, contradicted the trend observed in the literature for the community as a whole. This study highlights the importance of the evaluation of SLA in understories, as an indicator of the successional stage of communities.
Edge effect on post-dispersal artificial seed predation in the southeastern Amazonia, Brazil
Authors: Penido G. , Ribeiro V. , Fortunato DS.
Published: June 2015

This paper evaluates the post-dispersal artificial seed predation rates in two areas of the southeastern Amazon forest-savanna boundary, central Brazil. We conducted the survey in a disturbance regime controlled research site to verify if exists an edge effect in these rates and if the disturbance (in this case annual fire and no fire) affects seed predation. We placed 800 peanuts seeds in each area at regular distance intervals from the fragment`s edge. Data were analyzed by a likelihood ratio model selection in generalized linear models (GLM). The complete model (with effects from edge distance and site and its interaction) was significative (F3=4.43; p=0.005). Seeds had a larger predation rates in fragment’s interior in both areas, but in the controlled area (no disturbance) this effect was less linear. This suggests an edge effect for post-dispersal seed predation, and that disturbances might alter these effects. Even if we exclude the site effect (grouping both areas together) there is still a strong edge effect on seed predation rates (F3=32.679; p>0.001). We did not verify predator’s species in this study; however, the presence of several species of ants was extremely common in the seeds. The detection of an edge effect in only a short survey time suggests that there is heterogeneity in predation rates and that this variation might affect plant recruitment in fragmented areas of the Amazon forest. Henceforth, this seed predation should be taken in consideration in reforestation projects, where the main source of plants species is from seed distribution.
Feeding habits of the congeneric species Stellifer rastrifer and Stellifer brasiliensis (Acanthopterygii: Sciaenidae) co-occurring in the coast of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil
Authors: Sabinson LM. , Rodrigues-Filho JL. , Peret AC. , Branco JO. , Verani JR.
Published: June 2015

The objective of the present study was to investigate the feeding habits allowing the occurrence of the congeneric species Stellifer rastrifer and Stellifer brasiensis, collected on a seasonal basis, in the operating area of the artisanal seabob-shrimp trawl fishery in Porto Belo, an important fishing area on the southern Brazilian coast. Fish were collected seasonally from November 2009 to August 2010, in isobaths of 10, 20 and 30m. Of the 450 stomachs analyzed, 194 belongd to Stellifer rastrifer and 242 to Stellifer brasiliensis. From the totality of analyzed stomachs 33.49% were empty and 66.52% had some content. Crustacea were the predominant food category in the diet of S. rastrifer and S. brasiliensis, and the shrimp Acetes americanus was the most frequent crustacean in stomachs of both studied species. The overlapping in the diet of the species was high, however when analyzing the overlap in each season it was found that it occurred only during spring and winter. Although the most important items in the diet of these species are the same, the intake of each alternates in time, suggesting a difference in predation pressure, which leads to less direct competition in a given time.
First records of Charadrius semipalmatus, Bonaparte 1825 (Charadriidae) and Gelochelidon nilotica Gmelin 1789 (Sternidae) in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Nóbrega PFA. , Aguiar JAB. , Figueira JEC.
Published: June 2015

Around forty bird species habitually reproduce in the Northern Hemisphere during summer, and migrate to the Southern Hemisphere during northern winter. These migrating birds fly together in large or small groups until they have reached the Caribbean, Central American, or Brazilian shores. Charadrius semipalmatus, Bonaparte 1825, is one of these migrating species that uses resting and feeding areas along eastern and western coasts of North and South America, with several records for the Brazilian coast, and very few for the inland country. On November 24, 2011, an individual of this species was observed on the banks of one of the lakes that compose a complex of about 40 temporary lakes within the Karst of Lagoa Santa Environmental Protection Area. On October 29 and 30, 2012 a single individual of Gelochelidon nilotica, Gmelin 1789, was also observed in Sumidouro State Park. We suggest that these specimens have used the Atlantic Ocean migration route, following the São Francisco River Basin, until the karst area. Although highly impacted, the temporary lakes within the Karst of Lagoa Santa still harbor a significant number of bird species, and serve as resting and feeding places for migratory or errant species that are still eliciting new records.
Differential success in sampling of Atlantic Forest amphibians among different periods of the day
Authors: Rocha CFD. , Siqueira CC. , Ariani CV. , Vrcibradic D. , Guedes DM. , Kiefer MC. , Almeida-Gomes M. , Goyannes-Araújo P. , Borges-Júnior VNT. , Van Sluys M.
Published: June 2015

In general, anurans tend to be nocturnal, though diurnal activity is characteristic of some groups. Studies show that frog activity may be inferred based on the number of individuals collected at different periods of the day, during large-scale field surveys. We investigated the best period of the day to conduct amphibian sampling in nine Atlantic Rainforest areas in southeastern Brazil, based on intensive field surveys. At each locality we employed similar sampling effort during diurnal, crepuscular and nocturnal searches (totaling 704.5 sampling hours). We pooled data from all localities for each period and estimated the proportion of frogs of each species active at each period based on the total number of individuals and on the number of species found during all surveys for that period. We recorded a total of 817 individual frogs from 69 species. Species richness was highest at night (median = 12 species), intermediate at dusk (median = 8), and lowest during the day (median = 4). The percentage of the total number of individual frogs found (pooled species) was highest during the night (ca. 53%) and lowest during the day (ca. 14%). Analyzing each species separately, the number of individuals recorded was consistently higher at dusk and night for most species. Our study evidences a trend for nocturnal activity for most Atlantic Rainforest frogs, with few species having primarily diurnal habits. Those results may favor future studies and conservation efforts for amphibian species.
Two new species of Dryinidae (Hymenoptera: Chrysidoidea) from areas of Atlantic Rainforest at São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Martins AL. , Lara RIR. , Perioto NW. , Olmi M.
Published: June 2015

Two new species of Dryinidae are described and illustrated Dryinus auratus Martins, Lara, Perioto & Olmi sp. nov. and Gonatopus mariae Martins, Lara, Perioto & Olmi sp. nov., both from areas of Atlantic Rainforest at São Paulo State, Brazil. Keys to species are provided.
The construction of citizenship and the field of indigenous health: A critical analysis of the relationship between bio-power and bio-identity
Authors: Teixeira Carla Costa , Silva Cristina Dias da
Published: June 2015

This article discusses two contexts of ethnographic research in indigenous health, through which we reflect on the kind of citizenship produced in the political dialogue between the government and indigenous political participation, considering their actions, norms and discourses about health. In the case of social contexts in which governance practices focus on individual bodies and populations, we ask if it is possible to speak of an emerging bio-identity for indigenous peoples in the Brazilian Healthcare System. We have organized our discussion in two stages: (i) reflect on the effects of government policies on indigenous health, regarding the rich and complex field of connections between biology and politics; and (ii) reflect on the potential of these categories to understand political identity in the field of health.
Desenvolvimento, caracterização e análise sensorial de formulações alimentares com proteínas do soro de leite ou albumina para crianças
Authors: BATISTA Marina Andrade , GAMA Larissa Lovatto Amorin , ALMEIDA Lucia Péret de , ORNELLAS Cléia Batista Dias , SANTOS Luana Caroline dos , CRUZ Larissa Leandro da , SILVESTRE Marialice Pinto Coelho
Published: June 2015

O presente trabalho visou verificar a elaboração, a caracterização e a avaliação da aceitação de duas formulações alimentares achocolatadas (uma contendo albumina e a outra, concentrado proteico de soro de leite - WPC) para crianças de 7 a 10 anos. O desenvolvimento das formulações baseou-se nas recomendações nutricionais para a faixa etária. Foram avaliados os seguintes parâmetros físico-químicos: composição química, estabilidade, pH, viscosidade e fluidez. A análise sensorial englobou as escalas hedônica de atitude, intenção de consumo e doçura e foi realizada por um grupo de 142 julgadores de um centro universitário, com média de 24,5 ± 7,3 anos de idade e 66,2% do sexo feminino. Todos os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise estatística, adotando-se p < 0,05 como nível de significância. A composição química não diferiu em base seca (p > 0,05). Observaram-se 3,88 (albumina) e 4,79 (WPC) vezes mais proteínas em 100 mL de amostra do que em bebidas comerciais. A primeira formulação mostrou-se mais viscosa (137,33 cP versus 22,33 cP da formulação com WPC) e menos fluida (percorreu 40 mL em 69 segundosversus 29 segundos da formulação com WPC). Quanto ao pH, o produto com albumina apresentou característica alcalina (8,60) e o com WPC ácida (6,28). Ambas as formulações permaneceram estáveis e homogêneas após 24 horas de visualização. A análise sensorial mostrou que as formulações foram similares em todos os testes aplicados (p > 0,05), sendo que as características mais bem avaliadas foram o sabor, a textura e a doçura, para ambas. Houve boa aceitação das formulações, com nota mediana de 7 e valores acima de 80% para a soma das respostas positivas nos testes. Conclui-se que as formulações alimentares analisadas apresentaram boas características físico-químicas e mostraram-se equilibradas nutricionalmente, com potencial para comercialização.
Emprego da farinha e do extrato de frutanos de yacon na elaboração de apresuntados
Authors: CONTADO Ellem Waleska Nascimento da Fonseca , ROCHA Denise Alvarenga , QUEIROZ Estela de Rezende , ABREU Celeste Maria Patto de , RAMOS Eduardo Mendes
Published: June 2015

O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver duas formulações de apresuntado contendo farinha de yacon e extrato de frutanos de yacon visando obter produtos de melhor qualidade nutricional e ricos em fibras alimentares. Os apresuntados foram elaborados substituindo-se a fécula de mandioca (1,73%) pela farinha de yacon e a água da formulação (37,85%) pelo extrato aquoso de frutanos. Os efeitos dessas substituições nas qualidades tecnológicas e sensoriais dos apresuntados foram avaliados comparando-os com um controle. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram existirem diferenças significativas entre as formulações e evidenciaram que a adição da farinha de yacon ao apresuntado originou uma formulação com menor teor de sódio, índice de amarelo, tonalidade, dureza, flexibilidade, adesividade e menores notas nos quesitos sabor e impressão global. Entretanto revelaram que o apresuntado elaborado com extrato de frutanos apresentou uma aceitabilidade semelhante ao controle, porém com menor dureza e maiores teores de potássio e fibras, originando um produto cárneo benéfico à saúde.
Reproductive seasonality of Geophagus steindachneri Eigenmann & Hildebrand, 1922 (Perciformes: Cichlidae) in a tropical mountain river
Authors: Rangel-Serpa Federico , Torres Mauricio
Published: June 2015

Reproductive seasonality in tropical freshwater fishes is strongly influenced by rainfall. In lowlands, floods spill laterally to floodplains and fishes usually breed during the flooding season. In mountain rivers, floods are sudden and flush out aquatic organisms. Fishes in mountain rivers usually breed during dry seasons, what has been hypothesized as a strategy to reduce mortality due to strong floods. If that is the case, mouth-brooding fishes should suffer less from strong floods and should have more prolonged breeding seasons in mountain rivers. Here we investigated the breeding activity of a mouth-brooding cichlid (Geophagus steindachneri) in a mountain river in Colombia using three kinds of evidence: monthly variation of gonad weight, macroscopic and histological observations of the gonads, and occurrence of mouth-brooding females. Analysis was made on adults captured monthly throughout a year. The results indicate that G. steindachneri breeds during the dry season in the mountain river studied. Female mouth brooding was related with a halt in the maturation of their ovaries. Other factors than the flushing-out effect of floods on offspring may be determining dry-season breeding of fishes in tropical mountain rivers.
Cambio y narración. Las transformaciones de la homosexualidad en Buenos Aires según los relatos de homosexuales mayores
Authors: Meccia Ernesto
Published: June 2015

En el artículo se indagan narrativas respecto de las transformaciones de la homosexualidad de varones residentes en Buenos Aires desde 1983. Las narrativas implican ineludiblemente una valoración ética de lo contado, transformando de esta forma lo “realmente” vivido. Se aplican técnicas de los métodos del análisis narrativo para abordar un conjunto de teorías legas del cambio social de la homosexualidad, que no solamente presentan factores de cambio, sino valoraciones sobre el estado de cosas al que el cambio lleva.
Corpo aberto, rua sem saída. Cartografia da pegação em João Pessoa
Authors: Oliveira Thiago de Lima , Nascimento Silvana de Souza
Published: June 2015

O presente trabalho se insere na interseção entre os estudos de gênero e a antropologia urbana. A pesquisa etnográfica foi desenvolvida entre os anos de 2012 e 2014 na cidade de João Pessoa. No presente artigo buscamos apresentar agentes e espaços que compõem um circuito caracterizado pela busca de trocas eróticas e sexuais sem vínculos afetivos ou interesses financeiros entre homens que não necessariamente identificam a si mesmos como homossexuais: a pegação. A pesquisa aponta para relações de permeabilidade entre pessoas e lugares, bem como para processos de tensionamento de modelos identitários através de uma experiência marcada pela fluidez e a eventualidade, engendrando um contínuo processo de reinvenção do espaço e dos próprios envolvidos, ainda que submetida a mecanismos de controle social.
La identidad sexual en clave lesbiana. Tensiones político-conceptuales: desde el feminismo radical hasta Judith Butler
Authors: Martínez Ariel
Published: June 2015

Este artículo indaga aportes sobre la ‘heterosexualidad’ del feminismo radical lésbico y de la filosofía de Judith Butler. Se exponen los supuestos que subyacen a las categorías de ‘cuerpo’ e ‘identidad’, implicadas en los debates sobre la identidad sexual. Se destaca la emergencia de la dimensión política presente en todo análisis de la sexualidad para dar cuenta de las desventajas de anudar a los cuerpos características esenciales en relación con el género y la sexualidad. Se concluye de incluir localizaciones subjetivas no capturadas en las restricciones propias de identidades fijas y monolíticas.
Reconocer la violencia
Authors: Canseco Alberto E. F.
Published: June 2015

Este artículo presenta una reflexión filosófica acerca del reconocimiento y la representación de la violencia. Plantea la importancia política de pensar el modo en que determinada experiencia será representada y el marco de referencia en el que se inscribe esta representación. Uno de los objetivos de los feminismos ha sido que se reconozca la violencia de experiencias que previamente no habían sido consideradas violentas, para evitarlas en el futuro. El carácter “violento” de una experiencia no puede darse por sentado y, antes de reconocer su violencia, la misma debió primero ser conocida. Así, la manera en que la situación emerge dentro de un marco de representación específico posibilitaría, o no, el reconocimiento de su violencia.
Indicadores da Qualidade do Substrato para Monitoramento de Áreas de Mineração Revegetadas
Authors: Almeida Raquel Olimpia Peláez Ocampo , Sánchez Luis Enrique
Published: June 2015

Um procedimento para monitoramento e obtenção de indicadores para avaliação da recuperação ambiental de áreas mineradas foi desenvolvido e testado. Quatro bacias de disposição de rejeitos de mineração de areia industrial revegetadas em épocas distintas constituíram uma cronossequência de 14 anos que possibilitou a observação das mudanças das características físicas e químicas do substrato e o estabelecimento de relações com parâmetros de crescimento da vegetação. Uma análise de covariâncias multivariada entre os indicadores identificou a densidade de solo, teores de matéria orgânica e fósforo e pH como os mais apropriados para avaliar a qualidade do substrato e para atuarem como indicadores de resultados de ações de recuperação das bacias estudadas. Esse procedimento mostrou-se um instrumento de fácil aplicação para o acompanhamento da evolução da recuperação ambiental e para a obtenção de parâmetros quantitativos que facilitem a avaliação dos resultados das ações de recuperação.
Riqueza, estrutura e interações edáficas em um gradiente de restinga do Parque Estadual do Acaraí, Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil
Authors: Melo Júnior João Carlos Ferreira de , Boeger Maria Regina Torres
Published: June 2015

RESUMO O presente trabalho teve como objetivo caracterizar a flora e as fitocomunidades de um gradiente de restinga da planície litorânea Estado de Santa Catarina, correlacionando-as com os atributos edáficos. Para o levantamento florístico foi utilizado o wide patrolling, enquanto a estrutura da comunidade foi determinada pelo método de parcelas. Amostras de solo de cada fisionomia foram coletadas para análise de macronutrientes, matéria orgânica, umidade e espessura da serapilheira. A flora é composta por 319 espécies, dentre as quais 244 ocorrem de forma exclusiva nas formações de restinga herbácea (63), restinga arbustiva (32), restinga arbustivo-arbórea (46) e floresta de transição (103). O padrão estrutural de cada fisionomia da restinga estudada foi influenciado por fatores edáficos, como os teores de matéria orgânica, potássio, alumínio, a capacidade de troca catiônica e espessura da serapilheira, sendo estes atributos determinantes da flora característica de cada fitocomunidade.
Composição da comunidade liquênica em floresta ribeirinha na APA do Ibirapuitã, RS, Brasil
Authors: Käffer Márcia Isabel , Martins Suzana Maria de Azevedo , Dantas Renata Villar , Maciel Felipe Coutinho
Published: June 2015

RESUMO Os liquens fazem parte de um grupo extremamente diverso e são componentes importantes em áreas florestais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a composição da comunidade liquênica e verificar os padrões fitossociológicos de táxons ocorrentes em áreas florestais ribeirinhas, na APA do Ibirapuitã, RS, Brasil. O mapeamento dos liquens foi realizado através do método do acetato, em 60 forófitos (palavra masculina que designa árvores que servem de suporte para epífitas) distribuídos em 12 áreas florestais. Foram registrados 254 táxons liquênicos, destes 199 registrados no estudo quantitativo com duas novas espécies para a ciência, três novas citações para o Brasil e 14 novos registros para o Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. A espécie Heterodermia obscurata (Nyl.) Trev. foi a mais importante na comunidade, apresentando maior valor de importância, frequência e cobertura. A boa qualidade ambiental de algumas áreas florestais ribeirinhas, associada à disponibilidade de forófitos adequados e as condições microclimáticas das áreas florestais são fatores que contribuíram para os resultados encontrados. A preservação das florestas ribeirinhas nas áreas analisadas é de vital importância para assegurar a diversidade das espécies como também para a proteção dos cursos d' água do rio Ibirapuitã e seus afluentes.
Tidal effects on short-term mesozooplankton distribution in small channels of a temperate-turbid estuary, Southwestern Atlantic
Authors: Chazarreta Javier , Hoffmeyer Monica Susana , Cuadrado Diana G. , Berasategui Anabela Anahí
Published: June 2015

Abstract The short-term variability of mesozooplankton distribution and physicochemical variables was examined in two different channels of the Bahía Blanca Estuary, Argentina, during two tidal cycles. All the physicochemical measurements and mesozooplankton sampling were performed at a fixed site during approximately 22-23 h at 3-h intervals. Pumps were used to obtain surface and bottom mesozooplankton samples and the water speed of each stratum was measured with an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP). In all, 23 mesozooplanktonic taxa belonging to four phyla (Arthropoda, Annelida, Echinodermata and Chordata) were identified. The most abundant taxa during the two tidal cycles were Balanus glandula larvae, Eurytemora americana and Acartia tonsa. A discernible variability in the water conditions and vertical mesozooplankton distribution (VMD) different from that known for the estuary's main channel, was found in the other two selected channels. VMD varied during the tidal cycle in both channels in accordance with the channel's geomorphology and water dynamic characteristics of each of them. The variation of the abundance of the different taxa during ebb and flood currents might indicate the existence of a tidal vertical migration of the mesozooplankton as a response to particular dynamic water conditions.
Bioindicator Thais carinifera (mollusca, gastropoda): imposex response and consequences along the Pakistan coast during the period from 1993 to 2012
Authors: Afsar Nuzhat , Siddiqui Ghazala , Ayub Zarrien
Published: June 2015

Abstract Endocrine mediated "imposex" phenomenon was investigated and recorded in the muricoid gastropod species Thais carinifera during the two decades from 1993 to 2012 at three (3) sites out of six (6) localities investigated along the Sindh and Balochistan coast, Pakistan. The VDS stages 1 to 4 were apparent in Thais carinifera. The intensity of imposex has remained comparatively low in the populations of harbours in close proximity to port Mohammad Bin-Qasim, namely; Old Korangi Fish Harbour (OKFH) and New Korangi Fish Harbour (NKFH) where shipping activities are sporadic as compared to those in Manora Channel and the adjoining Karachi Port area where intensive shipping activity is rather frequent. Target species found to be good bioindicators have shown a marked decrease over the prolonged study period. Investigations show that this decrease is solely due to globally imposed effective bans on tributyltin (TBT) based antifouling paints over the past decade.
Feeding habits of whitemouth croaker Micropogonias furnieri (Perciformes: Sciaenidae) in Caraguatatuba Bay, southeastern Brazil
Authors: Denadai Márcia Regina , Santos Flávia Borges , Bessa Eduardo , Fernandez Wellington Silva , Luvisaro Camila , Turra Alexander
Published: June 2015

Abstract This study examined the feeding habits of Micropogonias furnieri in Caraguatatuba Bay. Samples were collected monthly between May 2003 and October 2004 by trawling in two areas (southern and northern parts of the bay). The fish were measured and their stomach contents identified. The abundance was compared between areas and among months. M. furnieri was more abundant in the southern area and in the spring of 2003. The population was dominated by small immature individuals. This species had a varied diet, feeding on crustaceans, bivalve siphons, and polychaetes. The ingestion of bivalve siphons may be an opportunistic behavior, due to the presence of a large bank of the bivalve Tivela mactroides in the study area. The high proportion of unidentified organic matter in the stomach corroborates published reports that this species eats continuously and has rapid digestion. These results demonstrate that M. furnieri can be considered a carnivore, with a preference for benthic organisms.
Students’ Recognition of Function Transformations’ Themes Associated with the Algebraic Representation
Authors: Daher Wajeeh M. , Anabousi Ahlam A.
Published: June 2015

The topic of function transformations is a difficult mathematical topic for school and college students. On the other hand, GeoGebra is a new technological tool for mathematics teaching and learning, so we wanted to experiment with this new tool in teaching non-basic function transformations to middle school students. Specifically, we wanted to examine how students conceive function transformations after working with GeoGebra, when this conceiving relates to the algebraic representation. The research participants were 19 ninth grade high achieving students who learned, with the help of GeoGebra translations, reflection and stretch. During their learning, the participants worked with transformations on the absolute function, the cubic function, and the quartic function. After they finished the transformation unit, the participants solved mathematics problems by means of function transformations. This research is interested in the participants’ solution of problems that included two non-basic functions: the absolute value of the quadratic function and the rationale function. The research findings show that the participants were generally able to solve successfully mathematical problems, by means of transformations on new and non-basic functions. Furthermore, the participants encountered difficulties in working with translations. These difficulties were due to the special algebraic form of the functions. We recommend that mathematics teachers expose middle school students to transformations on different types of non-basic function during learning this mathematical topic. Future researches could examine the impact of activities that include such functions and that are GeoGebra based on students’ conceptions and behavior when performing translations is involved.
A systems approach to enhance clinical research and medicines development
Authors: Silva Honorio , Koski Greg , Whalen Matthew , Tobin Mary , Widler Beat , Pacino II Al O. , Edwards Brian
Published: June 2015

The biopharmaceutical industry has traditionally been the key link between basic biomedical discovery and novel medicines. Today, the industry faces numerous challenges including the broad agreement that the current clinical trial system is inefficient and flawed. Most challenges are worsened by the inability of the stakeholders to work colla-boratively. Over the last decade, many cooperative efforts to transform clinical research have been launched, but a sys-temic solution has not been envisioned. A systems approach, including the application of systems engineering principles, has been used in other sectors and proposed for use in healthcare and medicines development. Clinical research, when looked at in systems terms, can be defined as an open system involving patients, investigators and associated staff, regulators, sponsors and stakeholders interconnected through a series of processes to bring effective and safe medicines into the market. ACRES is a global nonprofit organization with a mission of creating a multi-sector alliance of individuals and institutions collaborating on building a shared global system for clinical research excellence. A fundamental element of the ACRES system includes a global network of high-performing research sites interconnected through a shared information technology platform, with standardized policies and operational procedures and a robust, secure database to support performance, quality and safety. Five core initiatives address the larger mission and are currently ongoing. De-liverables will roll out over 2015–2018. Positive reception to the concept, vision and goals among critical stakeholders, and a steady influx of strategic allies willing to work collaboratively demonstrates the strong pull exerted by the vision of a global system. However, due to the undertakings’ scope and complexity, challenges remain. Recognition that effective shared collaboration is the best long-term option among stakeholders and the general public constitutes a powerful in-centive for ACRES contributors and strategic allies to keep working and make it happen.
Food Price and Trade Policy Evolution Since the 1950s: A Global Perspective1
Authors: Anderson Kym
Published: June 2015

In both rich and poor countries, food markets have been subjected to some of the most heavy‐handed governmental interventions. Policy developments in this sector since the 1950s have been mostly gradual but persistent, involving in many cases a change from taxing to subsidizing farmers—and from subsidizing to taxing food consumers—as national per capita incomes grow. In a few important countries there also have been transformational policy reforms, and in all countries there tends to be only partial short‐run transmission of international price fluctuations to domestic markets—a tendency that has not declined over time. This paper summarizes indicators of these trends and fluctuations in price‐distorting impacts of policies for a sample of 82 countries, using a global set of annual data from 1955 to 2011. It then draws implications for what policy interventions might evolve over coming years, especially as emerging economies attain and move beyond middle‐income status.

JEL codes: F13, F14, N50, Q17, Q18
Soil microbial communities are shaped by plant‐driven changes in resource availability during secondary succession
Authors: Cline Lauren C. , Zak Donald R.
Published: June 2015

Although we understand the ecological processes eliciting changes in plant community composition during secondary succession, we do not understand whether co‐occurring changes in plant detritus shape saprotrophic microbial communities in soil. In this study, we investigated soil microbial composition and function across an old‐field chronosequence ranging from 16 to 86 years following agricultural abandonment, as well as three forests representing potential late‐successional ecosystems. Fungal and bacterial community composition was quantified from ribosomal DNA, and insight into the functional potential of the microbial community to decay plant litter was gained from shotgun metagenomics and extracellular enzyme assays. Accumulation of soil organic matter across the chronosequence exerted a positive and significant effect on fungal phylogenetic β‐diversity and the activity of extracellular enzymes with lignocellulolytic activity. In addition, the increasing abundance of lignin‐rich C4 grasses was positively related to the composition of fungal genes with lignocellulolytic function, thereby linking plant community composition, litter biochemistry, and microbial community function. However, edaphic properties were the primary agent shaping bacterial communities, as bacterial β‐diversity and variation in functional gene composition displayed a significant and positive relationship to soil pH across the chronosequence. The late‐successional forests were compositionally distinct from the oldest old fields, indicating that substantial changes occur in soil microbial communities as old fields give way to forests. Taken together, our observations demonstrate that plants govern the turnover of soil fungal communities and functional characteristics during secondary succession, due to the continual input of detritus and differences in litter biochemistry among plant species.
Awareness of Antimicrobial Prophylaxis for Infective Endocarditis Among Dental Students and Interns at a Teaching Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bahammam Maha A , Abdelaziz Noha M
Published: June 2015

Introduction :
Infective endocarditis is a serious infection of the heart endothelium and valves. It carries long-term health risks and compromises the heart condition. However, this condition has been rarely observed since the introduction of appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis. Dentists play a major role in preventing infective endocarditis in susceptible patients. In this study, we assessed the levels of awareness about antibiotic prophylaxis for infective endocarditis among students and young dentists at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Methods : This cross-sectional study included 367 dental students and dental interns who answered a questionnaire designed to assess their awareness levels; it included questions pertaining to demographic information and questions examining the general knowledge of the participants with regard to antibiotic prophylaxis for infective endocarditis. Results : An average of 50% of the participants clearly lacked knowledge regarding the conditions that require antibiotic prophylaxis, while an average of 65% provided correct answers pertaining to the conditions that do not require prophylaxis. Regarding dental procedures that require prophylaxis, the majority of responses were correct with an average of 71.2%. With regard to the type of antibiotic to be prescribed, 63.5% of the participants chose to prescribe 2 g of amoxicillin as a first-line antibiotic. Conclusion : The results of this study showed that the levels of awareness about antibiotic prophylaxis for infective endocarditis are below 100%. Awareness is essential because of the cardiac risks associated with the lack of appropriate treatment. Up-to-date and accurate knowledge is mandatory for all dental students and interns who see and treat patients on a daily basis.
Reliability and Criterion Validity of a Novel Clinical Test of Simple and Complex Reaction Time in Athletes
Authors: Eckner James T. , Richardson James K. , Kim Hogene , Joshi Monica S. , Oh Youkeun K. , Ashton-Miller James A.
Published: June 2015

Slowed reaction time (RT) represents both a risk factor for and a consequence of sport concussion. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability and criterion validity of a novel clinical test of simple and complex RT, called RTdin, in contact sport athletes. Both tasks were adapted from the well-known ruler drop test of RT and involve manually grasping a falling vertical shaft upon its release, with the complex task employing a go/no-go paradigm based on a light cue. In 46 healthy contact sport athletes (24 men; M = 16.3yr., SD = 5.0; 22 women: M age = 15.0yr., SD = 4.0) whose sports included soccer, ice hockey, American football, martial arts, wrestling, and lacrosse, the latency and accuracy of simple and complex RTdin had acceptable test-retest and inter-rater reliabilities and correlated with a computerized criterion standard, the Axon Computerized Cognitive Assessment Tool. Medium to large effect sizes were found. The novel RTdin tests have acceptable reliability and criterion validity for clinical use and hold promise as concussion assessment tools.
Deep band modulation and noise effects
Authors: Shetty Hemanth Narayana , Mendhakar Akshay
Published: June 2015

The present study aimed to assess the effect of deep band modulation on phrase perception in younger and older adult groups under different signal-to-noise ratios.

Study design:

A deep band modulation algorithm was used, which increases the modulation depth of the stimuli to reduce the effect of temporal deficits experienced by older adults. Fifteen listeners in each group of younger and older adults participated in the study. A repeated measures design was utilized to investigate the perception of unprocessed and deep band modulated phrases in different signal-to-noise ratios (–9, –7, –5, –3 and –1dB SNR) in the two groups.

Results:

The deep band modulated phrase perception was significantly better than the unprocessed phrase perception in all SNRs, both in younger and older adult groups. In addition, unprocessed phrase perception was significantly better in the younger adult group than the older adult group. Although deep band modulated phrase perception scores in the younger adult group were better than for the older adults on average, the difference did not reach statistical significance (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the deep band modulated phrase perception scores from different SNRs in the older adult group were found to be close to the unprocessed phrase perception scores in the younger adult group.

Conclusion:

The findings of the present study indicate that deep band modulation may improve speech perception in noise in older adults.
Synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles by a hybrid electrochemical-thermal method: influence of calcination temperature
Authors: Hassan F , Miran MS , Simol HA , Susan MAB H , Mollah MYA
Published: June 2015

ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) with size less than 100 nm were successfully prepared by a hybrid electrochemical-thermal method using metallic zinc and NaHCO3 without the use of any zinc salt, template or surfactant. The NPs were characterized by Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR) spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy. UV-visible spectral analysis indicated that the particle size increased with increasing calcination temperature. The band gap (3.91-3.83 eV) was higher for synthesized ZnO NPs than their bulk counterparts (3.37 eV). The FT-IR spectra at different calcination temperatures showed the characteristic band for ZnO at 450 cm-1 to be prominent with increasing temperature due to the conversion of precursor into ZnO. The wurtzite hexagonal phase was confirmed by XRD analyses for ZnO NPs calcined at 700oC. The green photoluminescent emission from ZnO NPs at different calcination temperatures is considered to be originated from the oxygen vacancy or interstitial related defects in ZnO. SEM images clearly showed that the NPs are granular and of almost uniform size when calcined at higher temperatures. EDX spectra further confirmed the elemental composition and purity of ZnO obtained on calcination at 700oC. The NPs are well dispersed near or above calcination temperature of 700oC.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 50(1), 21-28, 2015
Correlation and path coefficient studies of Cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium L.)
Authors: Paul KK , Bari MA
Published: June 2015

Plant height, leaf length, leaf breadth, leaf number, leaf area index, corm length, corm breadth, corm weight, sucker number exhibited positive correlation with yield per plant in both genotypic and phenotypic level in cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium). Path coefficient analysis revealed that leaf length, leaf number, corm length exhibited direct influences to yield per plant. In genotypic level yield per plant showed the highest positive direct effect with corm length followed by cormel breadth, sucker number.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 50(1), 47-52, 2015
Analysis of gas condensate and its different fractions of Bibiyana gas field to produce valuable products
Authors: Sujan SMA , Jamal MS , Hossain M , Khanam M , Ismail M
Published: June 2015

Physicochemical characteristics of raw gas condensate from Bibiyana gas field, commercial motor spirit, kerosene and diesel fuel as well as products obtained from gas condensate were determined. Experiments were carried out to take apart motor spirit, kerosene and diesel from gas condensate based on boiling ranges. The analysis revealed that collected gas condensate contains more than 50% is motor spirit (regular octane/petrol) in the boiling range of 21-1450C, 23% is kerosene in the boiling range of 140-2210C and 24-25% is diesel in the boiling range of 178-3350C. Remaining 2-3% is found as residue and system loss. The characteristics of different fractions (Motor spirit, Kerosene & Diesel) obtained from condensate are very comparable to commercial products (collected from nearby fuel pump station supplied by Meghna petroleum) and BSTI standard except two properties of petrol (octane number and sulfur content). The octane number of motor spirit is increased by adding 5% of supper octane or ethanol or MTBE.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 50(1), 59-64, 2015
Towards Optimal Aerosol Information for the Retrieval of Solar Surface Radiation Using Heliosat
Authors: Mueller Richard , Pfeifroth Uwe , Traeger-Chatterjee Christine
Published: June 2015

High quality data of surface radiation is a prerequisite for climate monitoring (Earth radiation budget) and solar energy applications. A very common method to derive solar surface irradiance is the Heliosat method, a one channel approach for the retrieval of the effective cloud albedo (CAL). This information is then used to derive the solar surface irradiance by application of a clear sky model. The results of this study are based on radiative transfer modelling, visual inspection of satellite images and evaluation of satellite based solar surface radiation with ground measurements. The respective results provide evidence that variations in Aerosol Optical depth induced by desert storms and biomass burning events lead to a significant increase of the effective cloud albedo, thus, that certain aerosol events are interpreted as clouds by the method. For the estimation of the solar surface radiation aerosol information is needed as input for the clear sky model. As the aerosol effect is partly considered by CAL, there is a need to modify external aerosol information for the use within the clear sky model, e.g., by truncation of high aerosol loads. Indeed, it has been shown that a modified version of the Monitoring Atmospheric Composition and Climate (MACC) aerosol information leads to better accuracy of the retrieved solar surface radiation than the original MACC data for the investigated 9 sites and time period (2006–2009). Further, the assumption of a constant aerosol optical depth of 0.18 provides also better accuracies of the estimated solar surface radiation than the original MACC data for the investigated sites and period. It is concluded that this is partly due to the consideration of scattering aerosols by the effective cloud albedo.
Quantification of Protozoa and Viruses from Small Water Volumes
Authors: Bonilla J. , Bonilla Tonya , Abdelzaher Amir , Scott Troy , Lukasik Jerzy , Solo-Gabriele Helena , Palmer Carol
Published: June 2015

Large sample volumes are traditionally required for the analysis of waterborne pathogens. The need for large volumes greatly limits the number of samples that can be processed. The aims of this study were to compare extraction and detection procedures for quantifying protozoan parasites and viruses from small volumes of marine water. The intent was to evaluate a logistically simpler method of sample collection and processing that would facilitate direct pathogen measures as part of routine monitoring programs. Samples were collected simultaneously using a bilayer device with protozoa capture by size (top filter) and viruses capture by charge (bottom filter). Protozoan detection technologies utilized for recovery of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. were qPCR and the more traditional immunomagnetic separation—IFA-microscopy, while virus (poliovirus) detection was based upon qPCR versus plaque assay. Filters were eluted using reagents consistent with the downstream detection technologies. Results showed higher mean recoveries using traditional detection methods over qPCR for Cryptosporidium (91% vs. 45%) and poliovirus (67% vs. 55%) whereas for Giardia the qPCR-based methods were characterized by higher mean recoveries (41% vs. 28%). Overall mean recoveries are considered high for all detection technologies. Results suggest that simultaneous filtration may be suitable for isolating different classes of pathogens from small marine water volumes. More research is needed to evaluate the suitability of this method for detecting pathogens at low ambient concentration levels.
Effect of pH on the Aggregation of α-syn12 Dimer in Explicit Water by Replica-Exchange Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Cao Zanxia , Zhang Xiumei , Liu Lei , Zhao Liling , Li Haiyan , Wang Jihua
Published: June 2015

The dimeric structure of the N-terminal 12 residues drives the interaction of α-synuclein protein with membranes. Moreover, experimental studies indicated that the aggregation of α-synuclein is faster at low pH than neutral pH. Nevertheless, the effects of different pH on the structural characteristics of the α-syn12 dimer remain poorly understood. We performed 500 ns temperature replica exchange molecular dynamics (T-REMD) simulations of two α-syn12 peptides in explicit solvent. The free energy surfaces contain ten highly populated regions at physiological pH, while there are only three highly populated regions contained at acidic pH. The anti-parallel β-sheet conformations were found as the lowest free energy state. Additionally, these states are nearly flat with a very small barrier which indicates that these states can easily transit between themselves. The dimer undergoes a disorder to order transition from physiological pH to acidic pH and the α-syn12 dimer at acidic pH involves a faster dimerization process. Further, the Lys6–Asp2 contact may prevent the dimerization.