bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renda da terra, expansão da fronteira imobiliária, gentrificação e exclusão no Brasil (2009 - 2015)
Authors: Domingues Fabian Scholze
Published: July 2016

Este artigo utiliza a teoria da renda diferencial de David Ricardo para oferecer uma explicação econômica para o recente aumento dos preços imobiliários presenciado no Brasil entre 2009 e 2015. Ao contrário dos defensores da existência de uma bolha especulativa no mercado imobiliário, defende-se que os aumentos de preços de alugueis e imóveis decorreram da expansão da fronteira imobiliária, em grande parte provocada pelas políticas públicas de habitação voltadas às classes de menor renda. Assim como no modelo ricardiano, a análise é feita dividindo-se a sociedade em três classes sociais: trabalhadores, capitalistas e rentistas. Diferente dos defensores de uma bolha imobiliária, argumenta-se que os preços nominais não diminuíram, como seria de se esperar caso a origem do fenômeno se situasse no mercado de crédito. Conclui-se que a principal beneficiária desta política é a classe dos rentistas e não a classe dos trabalhadores ou dos capitalistas. A teoria da renda diferencial também permite compreender melhor movimentos de gentrificação e de exclusão, isto é, de revalorização de áreas centrais com boa infraestrutura urbana, mas degradadas, que resultou na exclusão de grandes contingentes populacionais, removidos para áreas distantes do centro das regiões metropolitanas. Como consequência, para resolver no longo prazo o problema do déficit habitacional e garantir o direito à habitação o governo deveria criar um conjunto articulado de medidas regulatórias para a política de habitação que visem não apenas a construção de moradias, como também o controle do preços dos alugueis, para reduzir o ônus excessivo com habitação, e a criação de um imposto social sobre domicílios vagos, para frear a especulação imobiliária.
Reforestation challenges in Scandinavia
Authors: Mattsson Anders
Published: July 2016

In the keynote, major reforestation challenges in Scandinavia will be highlighted. The following countries make up Scandinavia: Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark. For Iceland, with only a forest cover of 2%, a major reforestation challenge is the deforestation and overgrazing in combination with land degradation and extensive soil erosion. The challenges include the conflicts with livestock farmers. For centuries the commons were used for sheep and horse grazing. However, more and more of farmer grazing land have been fenced up, allowing the regeneration of birch and plantations of other species to increase. With a forest cover of 37% and 69% respectively, for decades a major reforestation challenge in Norway and Sweden has been the risk of seedling damages from the pine weevil. Unprotected seedlings can have a survival rate of less than 25% after being planted. Pine weevils feed on the bark of planted young seedlings at regeneration sites. If the seedling is girdled, it will not survive. In Sweden, and soon in Norway, pesticides have been forbidden. In the keynote, new methods and technology will be presented based on non-chemical protection. In Finland, with a forest cover of 75%, a major reforestation challenge is linked to the forest structure. The structure of Finnish forestry includes many private forests in combination with small regeneration sites. This implies a situation where logistics and methods for lifting and field storage provide a major challenge in order to preserve seedling quality until the planting date. Due to this situation, new logistic systems and technologies are being developed in Finland, including new seedling cultivation programs (including cultivation under Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)) to match the access of fresh planting stock to different planting dates. In Denmark, with a forest cover of 13%, a major reforestation challenge is the possibility of future plantations based on a wide range of relevant species. For this to become a realistic option, new methods and technology have to be developed in reforestation activities that support this possibility. These methods and technology should make it possible to not be limited to certain species due to problems and restrictions during field establishment. This due to the prospect of establishing stable, healthy, and productive stands of various forest species that can be adapted to future climate change.
The role of tree breeding in reforestation
Authors: Lindgren Dag
Published: July 2016

This article focuses on the creation of seed sources for forest planting or seeding with a special focus on clonal seed orchards supporting planting Norway spruce and Scots pine in Sweden. Supporting long-term breeding and low input breeding is discussed. The focus is not on clonal forestry, although this is discussed. Natural regeneration is not dealt with and provenance choice only briefly. It is not a manual or literature review and focus on my own evaluations, but more detailed reviews can be found in the literature cited. It is intended to contribute some familiarity with many of the relevant genetic aspects on forest plantations.
Afforestation on bare lands – example of Ibar Gorge, Serbia
Authors: Popović Vladan , Ćirković-Mitrović Tatjana
Published: July 2016

The afforestation of bare lands, sandstone, and skeletal terrains are one of the biggest challenges forestry scientists face. These terrains are characterized by specific ecological conditions that are generally unfavorable for the growth of woody species. These are usually shallow soils, unstable, and poor in nutrients and moisture. The characteristics of these habitats make said terrains unfavorable for the regeneration of forest vegetation. It is therefore crucial for the success of afforestation to gain detailed knowledge and understanding of environmental conditions. Only after the detailed research and study of field conditions can the selection of species for afforestation, including selection of species characteristics and technology of planting, begin. Mistakes made during previous establishments of green areas are one of the main reasons some species of vascular flora have disappeared. This alone expresses the undeniable importance of knowledge on habitat specifics, work schedule, and selection of species for afforestation. With the aim to implement the future afforestation within the planned scope, it is necessary to organize an effective nursery production of seedlings with characteristics that will suit the environmental conditions of bare lands, sandstones, and skeletal terrains whose afforestation is planned.
Thermodynamic description of the Al-Cu-Yb ternary system supported by first-principles calculations
Authors: Huang G. , Liu L. , Zhang L. , Jin Z.
Published: July 2016

Phase relationships of the ternary Al-Cu-Yb system have been assessed using a
combination of CALPHAD method and first principles calculations. A
self-consistent thermodynamic parameter was established based on the
experimental and theoretical information. Most of the binary intermetallic
phases, except Al3Yb, Al2Yb, Cu2Yb and Cu5Yb, were assumed to be zero
solubility in the ternary system. Based on the experimental data, eight
ternary intermetallic compounds were taken into consideration in this system.
Among them, three were treated as line compounds with large homogeneity
ranges for Al and Cu. The others were treated as stoichiometric compounds.
The calculated phase diagrams were in agreement with available experimental
and theoretical data.
The expression and serological reactivity of recombinant canine herpesvirus 1 glycoprotein D
Authors: Vaňková Markéta , Molinková Dobromila , Celer Vladimír
Published: July 2016

The aim of this work was to express recombinant glycoprotein D of canine herpesvirus 1 in bacterial cells and to evaluate its diagnostic sensitivity and specificity when compared to traditional serological methods. The gene fragment coding glycoprotein D of canine herpesvirus 1 was amplified by polymerase chain reaction, cloned into plasmid vector and expressed in Escherichia coli cells. Recombinant protein was then purified and used as an antigen in immunoblot for a detection of canine herpesvirus 1 specific antibodies. Antibody testing was performed on the panel of 100 canine sera by immunoblot with recombinant glycoprotein D as antigen and compared with indirect immunofluorescence assay. Serum samples were collected from 83 dogs with no history of canine herpesvirus 1 or reproductive disorders, and from 17 dogs from breeding kennels with a history of canine herpesvirus 1 related reproductive disorders. Sensitivity of glycoprotein D based immunoblot was 89.2% and specificity was 93%. Kappa value was calculated to be 0.8 between immunoblot and indirect immunofluorescence assay. Antibodies against canine herpesvirus 1 infection were detected in 33% of samples by immunoblot assay. Our study confirms that recombinant glycoprotein D expressed in bacterial cells could be used as a suitable and sensitive antigen for immunological tests and that herpesvirus infection seems to be common among the canine population in the Czech Republic.
Immunophenotyping pattern characterization in canine blood: towards a clinical application
Authors: León Leticia G. , Lopez Fatima Cruz , Fermín M. Luisa , Mejías Guillermo , Kremmer Elisabeth , Tejero Concepción
Published: July 2016

Immunophenotyping is a widely used method for a precise diagnosis and classification of haematopoietic neoplasia in human beings and also in dogs. The gold standard for cell preparation is density gradient centrifugation of mononuclear cells. Alternatively, another way to separate human leukocytes is carrying out whole blood lysis. The aim of this study was to validate whole blood lysis as an alternative method in clinical veterinary procedures using an immunophenotype panel of leukocytes designed by our group. Flow cytometry study of adult canine leukocytes subset groups, using whole blood lysis or mononuclear cells tested against an array of canine leukocyte antibodies were done. Besides differential white blood cell counts were done. Also immunophenotyping studies in whole blood samples stored at 4 °C for 48 h were performed. The Coefficient Variation values were less than 20%, for most of the comparison. Consistent results were observed in phenotyping canine peripheral blood leukocytes. Stability results indicated that whole blood samples might be stored for 48 h without a significant difference in the data compared to samples processed immediately after blood collection. This study shows that whole blood lysis represents an efficient and quick alternative for canine leukocyte preparation. In addition, samples can be analysed immediately or stored for 48 h without a significant difference between them. This is relevant for veterinary medicine considering the lack of facilities in many laboratories to process samples.
Sciatic neuropathy caused by an intermuscular lipoma in dogs
Authors: Trębacz Piotr , Galanty Marek
Published: July 2016

Lipomas are common, usually slow-growing, benign tumours of mesenchymal origin that most commonly occur on the proximal limb and trunk of middle-aged to older dogs. They are rarely associated with either local invasion or malignancy, unlike infiltrative lipomas and liposarcomas, respectively. Three dogs, a 10-year-old mixed-breed female of 35 kg body weight, a 10-year-old mixed-breed male of 30 kg body weight, and an 11-year old female German shepherd of 38 kg body weight, were presented with a 3–6 month (median, 5 months) history of progressive left pelvic limb lameness and thigh swelling. A lesion affecting the soft tissue of the thigh and the left sciatic nerve was suspected in all dogs. A left thigh magnetic resonance (MR) revealed a homogenous, well circumscribed tumour in the mixed-breed dogs and two similar tumours in the German shepherd. The tumours were interposed between the semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles. The treatment involved surgical extirpation of the tumours. A follow-up examination 12 months post operation showed mild lameness and proprioceptive deficits in the operated limb in all the dogs. The withdrawal reflex and the cranial tibial reflex were normal. Neither mass nor thickening were palpable in the thigh region. Although intermuscular lipoma is rare, it should be suspected in dogs with progressive monoparesis. Magnetic resonance is a valuable imaging method for diagnostic precision and pre-operative planning. Quick diagnosis and decompressive surgery are required to allow recovery.
Seasonal dynamics and possible development of total count of microorganisms in sheep’s milk
Authors: Klimešová Marcela , Tomáška Martin , Hofericová Margita , Hanuš Oto , Vorlová Lenka , Nejeschlebová Ludmila , Nejeschlebová Hana , Hasoňová Lucie , Kopecký Jaroslav , Vondrušková Eva
Published: July 2016

The work is focused on the evaluation of seasonal dynamics of the total count of microorganisms in sheep’s milk and on the proposal of developing cut-off values for standard limitation for the next fifteen years for hygienic safety support. The total count of microorganisms was measured between years 2012–2014 (n = 4,746). The results were statistically evaluated using medians, geometric means, arithmetic means, means of log values (log10) and standard deviations for the cut-off limit determination. This model was patterned on the maximum of total count of microorganisms in the tested percentiles 95 (statistical conventional interval), 91, 90, 80 and 70% and on the result of medians (from 109 to 148 × 103 cfu/ml). These cut-off limits were divided into three classes (I to III) of standard quality, and the model of dynamics for their gradual implementation time was created as follows: initiation period (class I = ≤ 800; II = from 801 to 1,300; III = 1,301 to 4,000; non-standard = > 4,000 × 103 cfu/ml); second period (class I = ≤ 550; II = 551 to 800; III = 801 to 1,300; non-standard = > 1,300 × 103 cfu/ml); third period (standard class = ≤ 800 × 103 cfu/ml); fourth period (standard class = ≤ 550 × 103 cfu/ml); and the last legislative period (≤ 300 × 103 cfu/ml as a real hygienic limit). The limit for milk without heat treatment corresponds to the real value of the median 200 × 103 cfu/ml. The work is important for the procedures in the development of methods for the control and safety of raw food material.
Transport-induced mortality in Pekin ducks transported for slaughter in the Czech Republic
Authors: Voslářová Eva , Hytychová Taťana , Večerek Vladimír , Nenadovic Katarina , Bedáňová Iveta
Published: July 2016

Data on the numbers of Pekin ducks transported to slaughterhouses between 2009 and 2014 and the numbers of ducks that died during these transports were recorded in cooperation with the State Veterinary Administration of the Czech Republic. In the monitored period, a total of 12,327,017 ducks were transported, of which 9,545 (0.077%) died. The levels of transport-related mortality over these years varied significantly (P < 0.001); the lowest mortality was observed in 2011 (0.059%) and the highest in 2013 (0.089%). The impact of distance on transport-related mortality in ducks was demonstrated. The lowest transport-related mortality (0.052%) was found for distances shorter than 50 km. It was significantly (P < 0.001) lower than the mortality rates connected with longer journeys. The greatest mortality rates were found for transport distances of 101–200 km (0.105%). In addition, the season of the year significantly affected transport-related mortality in Pekin ducks. The highest death losses were found in the summer (0.090%). Death losses of ducks connected with summer transports were significantly higher (P < 0.001) in comparison with transport-related mortality rates in any other season of the year. The lowest death losses were found in duck transports carried out in the autumn and winter (0.069% and 0.072%, respectively) with no significant difference between those two seasons. Shortening transport distances and maintaining a suitable micro-climate inside transport vehicles especially in the summer are thus two important factors that can contribute to reducing transport-related mortality in Pekin ducks in commercial practice.
Joanne Tompkins, Theatre’s Heterotopias: Performance and the Cultural Politics of Space
Authors: Levin Laura
Published: July 2016

Theatre’s Heterotopias is the first book to engage in a sustained way with the idea that theatre forms part of a special group of alternative, heterotopic spaces. It offers a pedagogically valuable site-sensitive method for performing heterotopic analyses of performances, and unsettles common approaches to space in theatre and performance.
Enhancing moral relationships through strict liability
Authors: Shiffrin Seana Valentine
Published: July 2016

The article considers the apparent tension between contract’s strict liability doctrine with respect to performance and the general moral precepts that liability should track fault and that one should internalize the costs of one’s own choices, but not the costs of arbitrary misfortune. By making contractors strictly liable for their failure to perform, the law attributes greater responsibility to agents than these moral principles seem to countenance – namely by according them legal responsibility for events or outcomes for which they bear no fault. Those precepts, however, are couched at a highly abstract level that is more appropriate for blame and punishment than for the sort of responsibility that contract law assigns. In the article, I defend the strict liability doctrine as a philosophically interesting default rule that supports trusting relationships between the parties and lays the groundwork for a healthier moral cooperative relationship between contracting parties than a fault-based system would. Strict liability norms relieve the promisee of pressures to supervise and intrude upon the promisor during performance and so eliminate some of the impetus to cultivate and display attitudes and behaviours of distrust. In turn, strict liability encourages the promisors to assume full responsibility for a project and by relieving promisees of pressures to intrude on the promisor gives the promisor a greater arena of autonomy in which to operate. While fault-based liability rules may encourage displays of distrust and sow the seeds of conflict, strict liability rules assign responsibility in ways that encourage trust and other components of healthy moral relationships. However, conceiving strict liability in this way brings out an internal tension between the justification of strict liability in contract and broad construals of the duty to mitigate, a doctrine that places the burden of self-help on disappointed promisees. As I will argue, broad construals of the duty to mitigate work at cross-purposes with the moral functions of a strict liability regime, offering further reasons to interpret the duty to mitigate narrowly.
Effects of Exposure to Monochromatic Light on Pigeon Squab Performance and Growth-Related Hormones
Authors: Wang Y. , Cao W. , Li B. , Ding J. , Yang H.
Published: July 2016

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of the exposure to monochromatic light on growth performance, and on the growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentrations in growing Pigeons ( Columba livia). A total of 144 paired adult White King Pigeons were randomly divided into 12 compartments forming groups of 12 pairs. Then, three compartments were exposed to blue LED (BL), green LED (GL), red LED (RL), and white LED (WL). Allocation of light colours was done within blocks of four compartments. The pigeons were kept under WL for a two week adaptation period before the study began. Body weight (BW) and body weight gain (BWG) were evaluated weekly. Two pigeons from each replicate group were randomly selected for blood collection to determine the hormone concentrations at 1 day, 7 days, 14 days, 21 days, and 28 days of age. The results indicated that there were no between-treatment differences in the final BWs ( P = 0.570), but the squabs exposed to RL had greater BWGs between 7 and 14 days of age ( P = 0.009, P = 0.049, respectively). The correlation trend lines for the body weight and growth hormone comparisons were inverted U-shaped, which corresponded to the birds’ growth cycle. The results indicated that monochromatic red light had potential effects on growth performance during the early phase of production. Growth performance was closely related to the blood plasma concentrations of GH and IGF-1.
Wind Patterns affect Migration Flyways and Flock Size of a Soaring Bird over Sea
Authors: Agostini Nicolantonio , Gustin Marco , von Hardenberg Jost , Panuccio Michele
Published: July 2016

Water surfaces are natural barriers for raptors mostly using soaring–gliding flight over land during migration. Among these, the European Honey Buzzard ( Pernis apivorus) is a total migrant, breeding in Europe and wintering in central western Africa. Each spring thousands of buzzards undertake long sea crossings between Tunisia and southern Italy, concentrating over small islands en route to central eastern Europe. The aim of this research is to investigate the influence of wind patterns on the flyways used by these raptors during this critical phase of migration through field observations at four small Mediterranean islands (Pantelleria, Marettimo, Ustica and Panarea) and at the Straits of Messina between 20 April and 20 May 2006–2013. In our analyses, peak days were considered for each site. This eight year multisite study allowed the collection of a large data set. While crossing the Channel of Sicily, migrants concentrated over Pantelleria (southern side of the Channel) during moderate NW winds, and over Marettimo (northern side) during weaker southerly winds. Over the island of Ustica (north-western Sicily, Tyrrhenian Sea) raptors were observed mostly with weak southerly winds. Over the island of Panarea (northeastern Sicily) and at the Straits of Messina, European Honey Buzzards passed with weak winds from W and NW, respectively. The average flock size during the peak days was significantly higher over the island of Pantelleria, where birds migrated during the stronger winds. The results of this study show that wind patterns affect both migration pathways and flocking behaviour of this species while crossing large water surfaces.
Weather Mediated Impacts on the Breeding Output of an Afro-Palearctic Migratory Waterbird
Authors: Carneiro Camilo , Correia Edna , Gonçalves David , Brito Rui , Luís António , Alves José A.
Published: July 2016

Understanding the consequences of changing environmental conditions on the demographic parameters of migratory species is key for addressing the widely reported declines for many of these species. We explore the variation in reproductive investment and output of Purple Herons ( Ardea purpurea) in two breeding seasons, with very different precipitation levels but similar temperatures. Despite similar investment in egg volume, reproductive output in the drier year was less than half of the wetter year (∼1.9 vs ∼4.1 chicks per pair) due to weather mediated higher predation. The current predictions of erratic precipitation and warming may threaten the breeding output of waterbirds, if water levels are unsuitable during the breeding season.
Caregiver Reports of Children’s Activity Participation Following Serious Injury
Authors: Braaf Sandra , Ameratunga Shanthi , Teague Warwick , Jowett Helen , Gabbe Belinda
Published: July 2016

Paediatric trauma can result in significant levels of on-going disability. The aim of this study was to explore the restrictions on activity participation that children experience following serious injury from the perspective of their caregivers. We performed a thematic analysis of transcripts of semi-structured in-depth interviews with the caregivers of 44 seriously injured children, conducted three-years after the injury, and purposively sampled from a population-based cohort study. Both temporary and on-going restrictions on school, sport, leisure and social activities were identified, some of which were imposed by caregivers, schools, or recommended by health providers. The perceived risk of further injury, physical restrictions, emotional state and fatigue levels were important influences on degrees of activity restriction. Children who were socially less engaged, especially those who were more severely injured, had difficulty making and retaining friends, and exhibited signs of depression or social withdrawal. The activities of pre-school children were strongly regulated by their caregivers, while school age children faced obstacles with participation in aspects such as study, sport, and peer and teacher relationships, affecting learning, school attendance and enjoyment. The findings highlight the need for primary prevention and reducing the impacts of serious injury throughout the continuum of care.
Predictors of FIFA 11+ Implementation Intention in Female Adolescent Soccer: An Application of the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) Model
Authors: McKay Carly , Merrett Charlotte , Emery Carolyn
Published: July 2016

The Fédération Internationale de Football (FIFA) 11+ warm-up program is efficacious at preventing lower limb injury in youth soccer; however, there has been poor adoption of the program in the community. The purpose of this study was to determine the utility of the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) behavior change model in predicting intention to use the FIFA 11+ in a sample of 12 youth soccer teams (coaches n = 10; 12–16 year old female players n = 200). A bespoke cross-sectional questionnaire measured pre-season risk perceptions, outcome expectancies, task self-efficacy, facilitators, barriers, and FIFA 11+ implementation intention. Most coaches (90.0%) and players (80.0%) expected the program to reduce injury risk but reported limited intention to use it. Player data demonstrated an acceptable fit to the hypothesized model (standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) = 0.08; root mean square of error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.06 (0.047–0.080); comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.93; Tucker Lewis index (TLI) = 0.91) Task self-efficacy (β = 0.53, p ≤ 0.01) and outcome expectancies (β = 0.13 p ≤ 0.05) were positively associated with intention, but risk perceptions were not (β = −0.02). The findings suggest that the HAPA model is appropriate for use in this context, and highlight the need to target task self-efficacy and outcome expectancies in FIFA 11+ implementation strategies.
Patterns and Associated Factors of Caesarean Delivery Intention among Expectant Mothers in China: Implications from the Implementation of China’s New National Two-Child Policy
Authors: Wang Lianlian , Xu Xianglong , Baker Philip , Tong Chao , Zhang Lei , Qi Hongbo , Zhao Yong
Published: July 2016

Objective: This study explores the basic demographic characteristics of expectant mothers in the context of their intentions regarding mode of delivery, in particular, the preference for caesarean delivery, and analyzes the social and psychological factors that influence delivery preference. Method: A cross-sectional survey of pregnant women was conducted during June to August in 2015. This study adopted a stratified sampling method, and 16 representative hospitals in five provinces of China were included. Results: 1755 and 590 of expectant mothers in their first and second pregnancies, respectively, were enrolled in this study. 354 (15.10%) intended to deliver by caesarean section and 585 (24.95%) participants were uncertain prior to delivery. 156 (8.89%) of expectant mothers in their first pregnancy and 198 (33.56%) expectant mothers in their second pregnancy intended to deliver by caesarean section. Ordinal logistic regression analysis found that nationality, parity, trimester of pregnancy, and advanced maternal age were factors associated with intention to deliver by caesarean (ordered logistic regression/three-level caesarean delivery intention criterion; odds ratios p < 0.05). Conclusions: 8.89% of first pregnancy expectant mothers and 33.56% of second pregnancy expectant mothers intended to deliver by caesarean section. Any intervention program to reduce the rate of Caesarean delivery should focus on the Han population, older pregnant women, and expectant mothers in their second pregnancy, at an early gestation.
Electrochemical Study and Characterization of an Amperometric Biosensor Based on the Immobilization of Laccase in a Nanostructure of TiO2 Synthesized by the Sol-Gel Method
Authors: Romero-Arcos Mariana , Garnica-Romo Ma. , Martínez-Flores Héctor
Published: July 2016

Laccase amperometric biosensors were developed to detect the catechol compound. The laccase enzyme (LAC) immobilization was performed on nanostructures of (a) titania (TiO2); (b) titania/Nafion (TiO2/NAF) (both immobilized by the sol-gel method) and a third nanostructure, which consisted of a single biosensor composite of Nafion and laccase enzyme denoted as NAF/LAC. The Nafion was deposited on a graphite electrode and used to avoid “cracking” on the matrix. The TiO2 particle size was an average of 66 nm. FTIR spectroscopy vibration modes of different composites were determined. The electrochemical behavior of the biosensor was studied using electrochemical spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The biosensor based on TiO2/NAF/LAC presented the best electro-chemical properties with regard to sensitivity, stability and detection limit after a period of 22 days.
Preliminary Design and Experimental Investigation of a Novel Pneumatic Conveying Method to Disperse Natural Fibers in Thermoset Polymers
Authors: Fahimian Mahi , Kortschot Mark , Sain Mohini
Published: July 2016

Natural fibers can be attractive reinforcing materials in thermosetting polymers due to their low density and high specific mechanical properties. Although the research effort in this area has grown substantially over the last 20 years, manufacturing technologies to make use of short natural fibers in high volume fraction composites; are still limited. Natural fibers, after retting and preprocessing, are discontinuous and easily form entangled bundles. Dispersion and mixing these short fibers with resin to manufacture high quality, high volume fraction composites presents a significant challenge. In this paper, a novel pneumatic design for dispersion of natural fibers in their original discontinuous form is described. In this design, compressed air is used to create vacuum to feed and convey fibres while breaking down fibre clumps and dispersing them in an aerosolized resin stream. Model composite materials, made using proof-of-concept prototype equipment, were imaged with both optical and X-ray tomography to evaluate fibre and resin dispersion. The images indicated that the system was capable of providing an intimate mixture of resin and detangled fibres for two different resin viscosities. The new pneumatic process could serve as the basis of a system to produce well-dispersed high-volume fraction composites containing discontinuous natural fibres drawn directly from a loosely packed source.
Energy Utilization Evaluation of Carbon Performance in Public Projects by FAHP and Cloud Model
Authors: Li Lin , Fan Fangfang , Ma Li , Tang Ziran
Published: July 2016

With the low-carbon economy advocated all over the world, how to use energy reasonably and efficiently in public projects has become a major issue. It has brought many open questions, including which method is more reasonable in evaluating the energy utilization of carbon performance in public projects when the evaluation information is fuzzy; whether an indicator system can be constructed; and which indicators have more impact on carbon performance. This article aims to solve these problems. We propose a new carbon performance evaluation system for energy utilization based on project processes (design, construction, and operation). Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) is used to accumulate the indicator weights and cloud model is incorporated when the indicator value is fuzzy. Finally, we apply our indicator system to a case study of the Xiangjiang River project in China, which demonstrates the applicability and efficiency of our method.
Distribution and Metabolism of Bt-Cry1Ac Toxin in Tissues and Organs of the Cotton Bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Zhao Zhuoya , Li Yunhe , Xiao Yutao , Ali Abid , Dhiloo Khalid , Chen Wenbo , Wu Kongming
Published: July 2016

Crystal (Cry) proteins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have been widely used in transgenic crops due to their toxicity against insect pests. However, the distribution and metabolism of these toxins in insect tissues and organs have remained obscure because the target insects do not ingest much toxin. In this study, several Cry1Ac-resistant strains of Helicoverpa armigera, fed artificial diets containing high doses of Cry1Ac toxin, were used to investigate the distribution and metabolism of Cry1Ac in their bodies. Cry1Ac was only detected in larvae, not in pupae or adults. Also, Cry1Ac passed through the midgut into other tissues, such as the hemolymph and fat body, but did not reach the larval integument. Metabolic tests revealed that Cry1Ac degraded most rapidly in the fat body, followed by the hemolymph, peritrophic membrane and its contents. The toxin was metabolized slowly in the midgut, but was degraded in all locations within 48 h. These findings will improve understanding of the functional mechanism of Bt toxins in target insects and the biotransfer and the bioaccumulation of Bt toxins in arthropod food webs in the Bt crop ecosystem.
Development of microsatellite markers for Crepis mollis (Asteraceae)
Authors: Duwe Virginia K. , Muller Ludo A. H. , Borsch Thomas , Ismail Sascha A.
Published: July 2016

Premise of the study:

Polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed for the threatened species Crepis mollis (Asteraceae) to investigate population and conservation genetics.

Methods and Results:

Illumina sequencing was conducted on pooled genomic DNA from 10 individuals of two populations. Ten polymorphic and 10 monomorphic microsatellite loci with di‐, tri‐, tetra‐, penta‐, and hexanucleotide repeat motifs were developed and characterized in C. mollis. In the polymorphic markers, up to 17 alleles per locus were detected with an observed and expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.120 to 0.780 and 0.102 to 0.834, respectively. Furthermore, the polymorphic markers were tested for cross‐amplification in three congeneric species (C. biennis, C. foetida, and C. sancta) and amplified in up to three loci.

Conclusions:

The markers developed in this study are the first microsatellites tested on C. mollis and will be useful for performing population and conservation genetic studies in this threatened species.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Body–Related Gene Expression in Different Root Zones of Arabidopsis Isolated by Laser‐Assisted Microdissection
Authors: Gotté Maxime , Bénard Magalie , Kiefer‐Meyer Marie‐Christine , Jaber Rim , Moore John P. , Vicré‐Gibouin Maïté , Driouich Azeddine
Published: July 2016

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) bodies are important organelles for root defense. However, little is known regarding the genetic control of their formation in root tissues. In the present study, Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. roots were dissected using laser‐assisted microdissection (LAM) with minimal sample preparation (no fixation or embedding steps) and the expression of genes associated with ER body formation and function was assessed by real‐time quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qRT‐PCR) in the presence and absence of the defense phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA). Zones of interest were identified in plants overexpressing a SP‐GFP‐HDEL fluorescent construct; these being the root cap zone, meristematic zone, elongation zone, and differentiation zone. Given their role in ER body formation, the expression of the genes NAI1, NAI2, BGLU21, BGLU22, and BGLU23 was evaluated in the whole root and in the four dissected root zones using RT‐qRT‐PCR. Our data show that the expression level of all five genes differs in a root‐zone‐specific manner in untreated roots. They also reveal that all of them are overexpressed in response to MeJA with the two NAI genes being the most highly overexpressed in the EZ. Finally, the NAI1 gene, encoding for a transcription factor that regulates the expression of the four other genes, is the first to respond to MeJA, supporting its central role in ER body formation and function in root defense.
AVERAGE SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF COSMIC RAYS BEHIND THE INTERPLANETARY SHOCK—GLOBAL MUON DETECTOR NETWORK OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Kozai M. , Munakata K. , Kato C. , Kuwabara T. , Rockenbach M. , Lago A. Dal , Schuch N. J. , Braga C. R. , Mendonça R. R. S. , Jassar H. K. Al , Sharma M. M. , Duldig M. L. , Humble J. E. , Evenson P. , Sabbah I. , Tokumaru M.
Published: July 2016

We analyze the galactic cosmic ray (GCR) density and its spatial gradient in Forbush Decreases (FDs) observed with the Global Muon Detector Network (GMDN) and neutron monitors (NMs). By superposing the GCR density and density gradient observed in FDs following 45 interplanetary shocks (IP-shocks), each associated with an identified eruption on the Sun, we infer the average spatial distribution of GCRs behind IP-shocks. We find two distinct modulations of GCR density in FDs, one in the magnetic sheath and the other in the coronal mass ejection (CME) behind the sheath. The density modulation in the sheath is dominant in the western flank of the shock, while the modulation in the CME ejecta stands out in the eastern flank. This east–west asymmetry is more prominent in GMDN data responding to ∼60 GV GCRs than in NM data responding to ∼10 GV GCRs, because of the softer rigidity spectrum of the modulation in the CME ejecta than in the sheath. The geocentric solar ecliptic-y component of the density gradient, G

y
, shows a negative (positive) enhancement in FDs caused by the eastern (western) eruptions, while G

z
shows a negative (positive) enhancement in FDs caused by the northern (southern) eruptions. This implies that the GCR density minimum is located behind the central flank of IP-shocks and propagating radially outward from the location of the solar eruption. We also confirmed that the average G

z
changes its sign above and below the heliospheric current sheet, in accord with the prediction of the drift model for the large-scale GCR transport in the heliosphere.
POWER BEAMING LEAKAGE RADIATION AS A SETI OBSERVABLE
Authors: Benford James N. , Benford Dominic J.
Published: July 2016

The most observable leakage radiation from an advanced civilization may well be from the use of power beaming to transfer energy and accelerate spacecraft. Applications suggested for power beaming involve launching spacecraft to orbit, raising satellites to a higher orbit, and interplanetary concepts involving space-to-space transfers of cargo or passengers. We also quantify beam-driven launch to the outer solar system, interstellar precursors, and ultimately starships. We estimate the principal observable parameters of power beaming leakage. Extraterrestrial civilizations would know their power beams could be observed, and so could put a message on the power beam and broadcast it for our receipt at little additional energy or cost. By observing leakage from power beams we may find a message embedded on the beam. Recent observations of the anomalous star KIC 8462852 by the Allen Telescope Array (ATA) set some limits on extraterrestrial power beaming in that system. We show that most power beaming applications commensurate with those suggested for our solar system would be detectable if using the frequency range monitored by the ATA, and so the lack of detection is a meaningful, if modest, constraint on extraterrestrial power beaming in that system. Until more extensive observations are made, the limited observation time and frequency coverage are not sufficiently broad in frequency and duration to produce firm conclusions. Such beams would be visible over large interstellar distances. This implies a new approach to the SETI search: instead of focusing on narrowband beacon transmissions generated by another civilization, look for more powerful beams with much wider bandwidth. This requires a new approach for their discovery by telescopes on Earth. Further studies of power beaming applications should be performed, potentially broadening the parameter space of the observable features that we have discussed here.
HARD X-RAY EMISSIONS FROM CASSIOPEIA A OBSERVED BY INTEGRAL
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Zhuo
Published: July 2016

Cassiopeia A (Cas A), as the nearby young remnant of a core-collapse supernova, is the best candidate for astrophysical studies in supernova explosion and its environment. We studied the hard X-ray emission from Cas A using the 10 year data of INTEGRAL observations, and first detected non-thermal continuum emission from the source up to 220 keV. The 44Ti line emission at 68 and 78 keV is confirmed by our observations with a mean flux of ∼(2.2 ± 0.4) × 10−5 ph cm−2 s−1, corresponding to a 44Ti yield in Cas A of (1.3 ± 0.4) × 10−4
M
⊙. The continuum emission from 3 to 500 keV can be fit with a thermal bremsstrahlung of kT ∼ 0.79 ± 0.08 keV plus a power-law model of Γ ∼ 3.13 ± 0.03. The non-thermal emission from Cas A is well fit by a power-law model without a cutoff up to 220 keV. This radiation characteristic is inconsistent with diffusive shock acceleration models with a remnant shock velocity of only 5000 km s−1. The central compact object in Cas A cannot significantly contribute to the emission above 80 keV. Some possible physical origins of the non-thermal emission above 80 keV from the remnant shock are discussed. We deduce that the asymmetrical supernova explosion scenario of Cas A is a promising scenario for the production of high-energy synchrotron radiation photons, where a portion of the ejecta with a velocity of ∼0.1c and opening angle of ∼10° can account for the 100 keV emission, as is consistent with the “jet” observed in Cas A.
STAR FORMATION ACTIVITY IN A YOUNG GALAXY CLUSTER AT Z = 0.866
Authors: Laganá T. F. , Ulmer M. P. , Martins L. P. , Cunha E. da
Published: July 2016

The galaxy cluster RX J1257+4738 at z = 0.866 is one of the highest redshift clusters with a richness of multi-wavelength data, and is thus a good target to study the star formation–density relation at early epochs. Using a sample of spectroscopically confirmed cluster members, we derive the star-formation rates (SFRs) of our galaxies using two methods: (1) the relation between SFR and total infrared luminosity extrapolated from the observed Spitzer Multiband Imaging Photometer for Spitzer 24 μm imaging data; and (2) spectral energy distribution fitting using the MAGPHYS code, including eight different bands. We show that, for this cluster, the SFR–density relation is very weak and seems to be dominated by the two central galaxies and the SFR presents a mild dependence on stellar mass, with more massive galaxies having higher SFR. However, the specific SFR (SSFR) decreases with stellar mass, meaning that more massive galaxies are forming fewer stars per unit of mass, and thus suggesting that the increase in star-forming members is driven by cluster assembly and infall. If the environment is somehow driving the star formation, one would expect a relation between the SSFR and the cluster centric distance, but that is not the case. A possible scenario to explain this lack of correlation is the contamination by infalling galaxies in the inner part of the cluster, which may be on their initial pass through the cluster center. As these galaxies have higher SFRs for their stellar mass, they enhance the mean SSFR in the center of the cluster.
ON THE FOURIER AND WAVELET ANALYSIS OF CORONAL TIME SERIES
Authors: Auchère F. , Froment C. , Bocchialini K. , Buchlin E. , Solomon J.
Published: July 2016

Using Fourier and wavelet analysis, we critically re-assess the significance of our detection of periodic pulsations in coronal loops. We show that the proper identification of the frequency dependence and statistical properties of the different components of the power spectra provides a strong argument against the common practice of data detrending, which tends to produce spurious detections around the cut-off frequency of the filter. In addition, the white and red noise models built into the widely used wavelet code of Torrence & Compo cannot, in most cases, adequately represent the power spectra of coronal time series, thus also possibly causing false positives. Both effects suggest that several reports of periodic phenomena should be re-examined. The Torrence & Compo code nonetheless effectively computes rigorous confidence levels if provided with pertinent models of mean power spectra, and we describe the appropriate manner in which to call its core routines. We recall the meaning of the default confidence levels output from the code, and we propose new Monte-Carlo-derived levels that take into account the total number of degrees of freedom in the wavelet spectra. These improvements allow us to confirm that the power peaks that we detected have a very low probability of being caused by noise.
THE FIRST DISCOVERY OF PRESOLAR GRAPHITE GRAINS FROM THE HIGHLY REDUCING QINGZHEN (EH3) METEORITE
Authors: Xu Yuchen , Lin Yangting , Zhang Jianchao , Hao Jialong
Published: July 2016

Presolar graphite grains have been extensively studied, but are limited in carbonaceous chondrites, particularly in Murchison (CM2) and Orgueil (CI1), which sampled materials from the oxidizing regions in the solar nebula. Here, we report the first discovery of presolar graphite grains from the Qingzhen (EH3) enstatite chondrite which formed under a highly reducing condition. Eighteen presolar graphite grains were identified by C-isotope mapping of the low-density fraction (1.75–1.85 g cm−3) from Qingzhen acid residue. Another 58 graphite spherules were found in different areas of the same sample mount using a scanning electron microscope and were classified into three morphologies, including cauliflower, onion, and cauliflower–onion. The Raman spectra of these spherules vary from ordered, disordered, and glassy to kerogen-like, suggestive of a wide range of thermal metamorphisms. NanoSIMS analysis of the C- and Si-isotopes of these graphite spherules confirmed 23 presolar grains. The other 35 graphite spherules have no significant isotopic anomalies, but they share similar morphologies and Raman spectra with the presolar ones. Another three grains were identified during NanoSIMS analysis. Of all the 44 presolar graphite grains identified, six grains show 28Si-excesses, suggestive of supernovae origins, and four grains are 12C- and 29,30Si-rich, consistent with low-metallicity asymptotic giant branch star origins. Another two graphite spherules have extremely low 12C/13C ratios with marginal solar Si-isotopes. The morphologies, Raman spectra, and C- and Si-isotopic distributions of the presolar graphite grains from the Qingzhen enstatite chondrite are similar to those of the low-density fractions from Murchison carbonaceous chondrites. This study suggests a homogeneous distribution of presolar graphite grains in the solar nebula.