bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of exposure to low levels of mercury on the health of dental workers
Authors: Jesus Leda Freitas , Moreira Fátima Ramos
Published: October 2016

This work evaluated the impact of exposure to mercury on the health of workers comparing dentists and dental assistants exposed to mercury by handling amalgam in a public dental clinic with a reference group which, in private offices, did not make use of the metal in their professional routine. Data collection included mercury levels in urine and air samples determined by cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry, questionnaires and direct observation. The difference between urine and air samples in both groups was statistically significant while mercury levels in air and urine showed positive associations. Mercury concentration in urine correlated with gender, practice time, and age of workers. Half of those exposed had complaints compatible with mercury contamination. Among the exposed, the most common complaints were cognitive and neurocognitive symptoms. Correlations between symptoms and exposure time and also number of amalgam fillings placed per week were positive. Amalgam handling resulted in environmental and biological contamination by mercury.
Evaluation of factors associated with urinary incontinence in elderly people in long-term care homes
Authors: Rosa Tábada Samantha Marques , Braz Melissa Medeiros , Santos Filha Valdete Alves Valentins dos , Moraes Anaelena Bragança de
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study was to assesses the factors associated with the occurrence of urinary incontinence (UI) in elderly people living in long-term care homes. Reports on Urinary Incontinence coupled to clinical-functional and socio-demographic data were retrieved from the medical records of elderly people. In addition, the application of the protocols: Mini-Mental State Examination, Katz Index, Short Physical Performance Battery. It was considered a significance level of 5%. It was noted that the UI occurred in 80.6% of elderly people, with average age 76.5 years (± 8.3) and average time at the care home reaching 5.2 years (± 6.4). Significant UI association was reported with gender, education and disease. A discrete increase in scores occurred in protocols for elderly people without UI occurrence. It is concluded that sample was characterized by elderly females with less than five years living in homes. The elderly with UI were similar to elderly people in general with regard to protocols.
Measures of association in epidemiological studies: smoking mothers and low birth weight children in the city of Campina Grande – PB
Authors: Albuquerque Tarsyla Medeiros de , Araujo Gabriela Albuquerque Batista de , Caminha Bruno Leão , Albuquerque Marta Lucia de , Albuquerque Mácio Augusto de
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study was to present and describe the essential aspects, and to discuss the use of measures of association, relative risk and odds ratio, including formulas for calculating confidence intervals of obtained data from a cohort study of underweight live births of mothers who smoked during pregnancy, whose deliveries were performed in hospitals and maternity wards located in Campina Grande, state Pernambuco. Smoking during pregnancy was analyzed as a potential risk factor for low birth weight among 3612 newborns. In assessing the association of outcome, there were no large numeric differences between the estimates of the relative risk, odds ratios and confidence intervals obtained. It is an acceptable approximation to the relative risk and the odds ratio. It is up to the researcher to choose the most appropriate technique to its subject matter and should be determined according to the surveyed data.
Short-Lived Antigen Recognition but Not Viral Infection at a Defined Checkpoint Programs Effector CD4 T Cells To Become Protective Memory
Authors: Bautista Bianca L. , Devarajan Priyadharshini , McKinstry K. Kai , Strutt Tara M. , Vong Allen M. , Jones Michael C. , Kuang Yi , Mott Daniel , Swain Susan L.
Published: October 2016

Although memory CD4 T cells are critical for effective immunity to pathogens, the mechanisms underlying their generation are still poorly defined. We find that following murine influenza infection, most effector CD4 T cells undergo apoptosis unless they encounter cognate Ag at a defined stage near the peak of effector generation. Ag recognition at this memory checkpoint blocks default apoptosis and programs their transition to long-lived memory. Strikingly, we find that viral infection is not required, because memory formation can be restored by the addition of short-lived, Ag-pulsed APC at this checkpoint. The resulting memory CD4 T cells express an enhanced memory phenotype, have increased cytokine production, and provide protection against lethal influenza infection. Finally, we find that memory CD4 T cell formation following cold-adapted influenza vaccination is boosted when Ag is administered during this checkpoint. These findings imply that persistence of viral Ag presentation into the effector phase is the key factor that determines the efficiency of memory generation. We also suggest that administering Ag at this checkpoint may improve vaccine efficacy.
Update on Gender Equity in Immunology, 2001 to 2016
Authors: Shapiro Virginia Smith , Kovats Susan , Parent Michelle A. , Gaffen Sarah L. , Hedrick Catherine C. , Jain Pooja , Denzin Lisa K. , Raghavan Malini , Stephens Robin
Published: October 2016

In 2001, The American Association of Immunologists Committee on the Status of Women conducted a survey examining the percentage of women faculty members within immunology departments or women in immunology graduate programs across 27 institutions in the United States, comparing it to the percentage of women receiving a Ph.D. Here, we examine the representation of women across these same 27 immunology departments and programs to examine changes in gender equity over the last 15 years.
Infrared drying as a potential alternative to convective drying for biltong production
Authors: Cherono Kipchumba , Mwithiga Gikuru , Schmidt Stefan
Published: October 2016

Two infrared systems set at an intensity of 4777 W/m2 with peak emission wavelengths of 2.5 and 3.5 μm were used to produce biltong by drying differently pre-treated meat. In addition to meat texture and colour, the microbial quality of the biltong produced was assessed by quantifying viable heterotrophic microorganisms using a most probable number (MPN) method and by verifying the presence of presumptive Escherichia coli in samples produced using infrared and conventional convective drying. The two infrared drying systems reduced the heterotrophic microbial burden from 5.11 log10 MPN/g to 2.89 log10 MPN/g (2.5 μm) and 3.42 log10 MPN/g (3.5 μm), respectively. The infrared systems achieved an up to one log higher MPN/g reduction than the convective system. In biltong samples produced by short wavelength (2.5 μm) infrared drying, E. coli was not detectable. This study demonstrates that the use of short wavelength infrared drying is a potential alternative to conventional convective drying by improving the microbiological quality of biltong products while at the same time delivering products of satisfactory quality.
Monitoring the presence of domoic acid in the production areas of bivalve molluscs
Authors: Rossi Rachele , Arace Olga , Buonomo Maria Giovanna , Capozzo Daniela , Castellano Vincenzo , Imbimbo Samantha , Soprano Vittorio
Published: October 2016

Algal biotoxins, chemical compounds produced by some microscopic algae, constitute the phytoplankton. The mussels, feeding on phytoplankton, can accumulate these compounds to become themselves toxic. There have been several cases of food poisoning by consumption of contaminated shellfish. Such food poisoning have pushed our health care system to provide monitoring of shellfish in the framework of the monitoring plans carried out by AASSLL. In this paper we report the results obtained monitoring the presence of ASP (Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning) biotoxins, like domoic acid (DA) and its isomers, produced by Pseudonitzschia algae. The analysis were carried out by using both the HPLC-UV official method and an experimental method performed with a Time of Flight mass spectrometer (ESI-TOF). The 100% of samples analysed by the official method have always been below the limits of sensitivity (except one sample), the 65% of samples analysed by ESI-TOF, showed the presence of domoic acid.
FLOQSwabTM: optimisation of procedures for the recovery of microbiological samples from surfaces
Authors: Finazzi Guido , Losio Marina Nadia , Varisco Giorgio
Published: October 2016

The FLOQSwabTM is a specimen collection device worldwide recognised for its superior performance in the clinical diagnostics. The aim of this work was to evaluate FLOQSwabTM for the recovery of microbiological samples from surfaces compared to the traditional swab (rayon tipped swab) as per ISO 18593:2004 standard. The FLOQSwabTM, thanks to its innovative manufacturing technology, allows improving the efficiency of recovery and release of analyte. The study has been divided into two experiments. In the first experiment the two swabs were evaluated for their capacity to recover and release the analyte (three different bacterial loads of Escherichia coli). In the second experiment, the two swabs were evaluated for their capacity to recover three different bacterial loads of E. coli from two different surface materials (stainless steel and polypropylene). In all experiments the flocked swab demonstrated a higher recovery rate compared to the traditional rayon tipped swab. The data obtained from this preliminary study demonstrated that the FLOQSwabTM could be a good food surfaces collection device, which improves the recovery of the analyte and thus produces accurate results. Based on the outcomes of the study, a larger field study is in progress using the FLOQSwabTM for samples collection to improve both environmental monitoring and the efficacy of the hygiene controls for food safety.
Influence of incubation conditions on biofilm formation by Pseudomonas fluorescens isolated from dairy products and dairy manufacturing plants
Authors: Rossi Chiara , Chaves-López Clemencia , Serio Annalisa , Goffredo Elisa , Cenci Goga Beniamino Terzo , Paparella Antonello
Published: October 2016

In this study, biofilm formation of 64 Pseudomonas fluorescens strains isolated from milk, dairy products and dairy plants was compared. The strains were grown on Tryptic Soy Broth supplemented with 0.2% of glucose, on polystyrene microplates at 10 and 30°C for 48 h. In general, 57/64 P. fluorescens strains formed biofilm, although with great variability at both tested temperatures. Moreover, our results evidenced that the biofilm-forming ability of the strains was temperature- and strain-dependent. Interestingly, the ability of several isolates to form biofilms was associated with the low temperature after 48 h. Our findings evidenced that temperature was more important than incubation time for biofilm formation. Considering the origin of the strains, it is relevant to underline the importance of performing accurate cleaning and disinfection procedures on food processing surfaces.
What unrelated hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in thalassemia taught us about transplant immunogenetics
Authors: La Nasa Giorgio , Vacca Adriana , Littera Roberto , Piras Eugenia , Orru Sandro , Greco Marianna , Carcassi Carlo , Caocci Giovanni
Published: October 2016

Abstract Although the past few decades have shown an improvement in the survival and complication-free survival rates in patients with beta-thalassemia major and gene therapy is already at an advanced stage of experimentation, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) continues to be the only effective and realistic approach to the cure of this chronic non-malignant disease. Historically, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched siblings have been the preferred source of donor cells owing to superior outcomes compared with HSCT from other sources. Nowadays, the availability of an international network of voluntary stem cell donor registries and cordon blood banks has significantly increased the odds of finding a suitable HLA matched donor. Stringent immunogenetic criteria for donor selection have made it possible to achieve overall survival (OS) and thalassemia-free survival (TFS) rates comparable to those of sibling transplants. However, acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains the most important complication in unrelated HSCT in thalassemia, leading to considerable rates of morbidity and mortality for a chronic non-malignant disease. A careful immunogenetic assessment of donors and recipients makes it possible to individuate appropriate strategies for its prevention and management. This review provides an overview on recent insights about immunogenetic factors involved in GVHD, which seem to have a potential role in the outcome of transplantation for thalassemia.
Mild bleeders: Diagnosis is elusive in large number of patients
Authors: Kotru Mrinalini , Mutereja Deepti , Purohit Abhishek , Tyagi Seema , Mahapatra Manoranjan , Saxena Renu , Pati Hara Prasad
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Background: Bleeding is a common clinical presentation. Even patients with mild bleeding disorders are extensively investigated for ascertaining the cause. The present study was conducted in order to evaluate the extent of the possibility of diagnosis in mild bleeding disorders.Material and Methods: This was a prospective study of patients referred for work up of mild bleeding for a period of 13 months. A complete blood count, peripheral smear examination, Prothrombin time, Partial Thromboplastin time and Thrombin Time, Platelet Aggregometry test, tests for von Willebrand’s disease and Platelet function 3 availability were measured. Results: 164 patients presented with mild bleeding, in 114 of the  patients a single site of bleeding was present. Epistaxis was the most common presentation (39%). Cutaneous bleeding (petechiae and purpura) was the next common site. History of a major bleeding tendency in the family was present only in 11 patients. The investigations showed that VWD (17/164), followed by clotting disorders (CD) mainly mild hemophilia (15/164) were the most common diagnosable cause. There were also 4 cases of hypofibrinogenemia. The disorders of platelets (Platelet function defects/PFD) were the least common (9/164). Rest 123 (75%) patients could not be diagnosed on the basis of these investigations and were labeled as  Bleeding disorders – Unclassified (BDC). Conclusion: n our study, 75% of the patients with mild bleeding remained undiagnosed even after extensive laboratory workup, thus raising a very pertinent question that is it necessary that all mild bleeders submit to a broad battery of investigations, as the diagnosis continues to be elusive despite extensive workup.
Towards liberationist engagement with ethnicity: A case study of the politics of ethnicity in a Methodist church
Authors: Hankela Elina
Published: October 2016

The article calls for critical theological examination of the politics of ethnicity in the context of mainline churches in South Africa. The category of ethnicity is largely missing in the interrogation of diversity in the delineated context. Including this category of difference in the theological and religious studies diversity discourse would, if brought to bear on praxis, facilitate the building of inclusive worship spaces. On the contrary, neglecting the politics of ethnicity in the context of churches means neglecting a dynamic that impacts negatively on the everyday life of ordinary churchgoers. The argument is based on ethnographic fieldwork conducted by the author in a Methodist church in Johannesburg primarily in 2009.
Authentic subjectivity and social transformation
Authors: O'Sullivan Michael
Published: October 2016

Holiness in the Christian tradition has often been understood in a way that devalues embodiment and practical engagement with the world of one’s time. The latter understanding, for example, led to Marx’s critique and repudiation of Christianity. Both interpretations of holiness can be understood as mistaken efforts to express the dynamism for authenticity in contextualised human subjectivity. Vatican 2 opposed both views by addressing itself to all people of good will, declaring that everyone was called to holiness, and that authentic Christian identity involved solidarity with the world of one’s time, especially those who are poor. Vatican 2, therefore, provided an authoritative faith foundation for holiness expressed through social commitment and for viewing social commitment on the part of people of good will in whatever state of life as a form of holiness. This vision was also the conviction of leading spirituality writers of the period, like Thomas Merton, and inspired liberation theologians and the Latin American Catholic bishops at their conference in Medellín a few years after the Council. The argument of this article is that the emergence and development of a non-dualist Christian spirituality is grounded methodologically in the correct appropriation of the common innate dynamism for authenticity in concrete human persons and lived spiritual experiences consistent with and capable of enhancing this dynamism.
Transformational development in a changing context: A Latin American perspective
Authors: Zeeland Angelique J.W.M. van
Published: October 2016

This article analyses the challenges for the strategies and practices of transformational development in a changing context. This reflection is based on contributions received during the process of dialogues and regional consultations, realised from August 2012 until March 2014, of the ACT Alliance, an international coalition of churches and faith-based organisations (FBOs) working in the areas of humanitarian response, development and advocacy. The main processes that affect the changing development context are addressed, such as the ongoing globalisation as well as the consequences, mainly regarding the shrinking space for civil society. It discusses the concepts of human development and of transformational development, based on a people-centred development vision, a human rights-based approach and advocacy, which addresses the root causes and effects of poverty, inequality and injustice. Transformational development practices, from Latin America, are presented and analysed. The article concludes that the changing development context also offers opportunities, especially regarding regional and global alliances of FBOs, civil society organisations and of social movements.
Mr Paul: Masculinity and Paul’s self-presentation (1 Cor 11–13)
Authors: Punt Jeremy
Published: October 2016

Notwithstanding all the corporeal and gendered language in the Pauline letters, the apostle’s bodiliness and masculinity so far has received little attention. In the 1st-century context masculinity reigned by default and provides the contemporary context for teasing out the corporeal and gendered overtones in the Pauline letters, especially in Paul’s self-presentation. Recent and intersecting masculinity studies, body theology and queer theory provide useful tools for engaging Paul as man and his bodily-focussed, gendered approach in his letters. A focus on both Paul as embodied man and his corporeal, gendered approach enable alternative readings of his letters’ concern with corporeality and the related relationships between bodies, power and life in the communities he addressed.
On Identities with Composition of Generalized Derivations
Authors: Pınar Eroglu Münevver , Argaç Nurcan
Published: October 2016

Let R be a prime ring with extended centroid C, Q maximal right ring of quotients of R, RC central closure of R such that dim C(RC) > , ƒ (X1, . . . , Xn) a multilinear polynomial over C that is not central-valued on R, and f (R) the set of all evaluations of the multilinear polynomial f (X1 , . . . , Xn) in R. Suppose that G is a nonzero generalized derivation of R such that G2(u)u ∈ C for all u ∈ ƒ(R).
El tratamiento mediático de la emigración juvenil en los informativos televisivos y en los vídeos auto producidos por migrantes (2009-2015)
Authors: Visa Barbosa Mariona , Soto Merola Joana , Rubio Ros Clara
Published: October 2016

El artículo describe las representaciones de la emigración juvenil a Londres hechas por los medios de comunicación generalistas y por los propios protagonistas en las redes sociales, partiendo del estudio de la construcción de las identidades y de la teoría del framing. Metodología: El análisis de contenido comparativo de doce noticias televisivas y de un documental y una webserie distribuidos por las redes sociales, complementado con entrevistas en profundidad a un grupo de jóvenes emigrados a Londres. Resultados y conclusiones: El artículo señala cómo la emigración juvenil no ha sido un tema predominante en la agenda mediática televisiva y cómo su tratamiento informativo tiende a la descontextualización y al esquematismo. Los documentales y la webserie distribuidos en las redes sociales suponen un retrato más fiel de la realidad de los emigrantes, y han constituido un punto de encuentro para personas que buscaban compartir sus experiencias y una información más detallada del proceso.
Factors Associated with Fatal Outcomes Following Cholera-Like Syndrome in Far North Region of Cameroon: A Community-Based Survey
Authors: Djouma Fabrice N. , Ateudjieu Jerome , Ram Malathi , Debes Amanda K. , Sack David A.
Published: October 2016

This study demonstrates that most cholera deaths in this region of Cameroon occur out of hospital. This is a region which is prone to cholera, and interventions are needed to improve access to emergency medical care, especially during cholera outbreaks. Cameroon has experienced 14 cholera epidemics during the last 20 years, and these have had high case fatality rates. This study attempted to assess the effect of delays in seeking care and the locations of care as possible risk factors for cholera mortality. The study used data from a community-based survey regarding the circumstances of 97 fatal cases and 197 control (nonfatal) cases following a cholera-like syndrome in villages with cholera-like diseases during cholera outbreaks in Cameroon during 2009–2011. Deaths occurred in one of four environments: the community, in a temporary community treatment center (TCTC), in transit to a treatment center, or in a hospital (39%, 32%, 5%, and 24%, respectively). Using a case–control analysis, factors associated with deaths included the nonuse of a cholera treatment center, receiving health care in a TCTC instead of a hospital, and greater than 4 hours delay between the onset of symptoms and the decision to go to a treatment center (odds ratios of 17.1 [confidence interval (CI): 7.0–41.8], 2.5 [CI: 1.2–5.0], and 2.2 [CI: 1.0–4.6], respectively). During cholera epidemics, a higher proportion of deaths are still occurring in communities. The nonuse and delays in deciding to go a treatment center, and treatment at TCTC rather than a hospital were risk factors for death among patients with cholera-like syndrome in Cameroon. Informing people on community management of cholera-like syndrome and improving care in all health facilities are needed to reduce deaths during cholera epidemics.
Guillain–Barré Syndrome Associated with Zika Virus Infection in a Traveler Returning from Guyana
Authors: Fabrizius Ryan G. , Anderson Kathryn , Hendel-Paterson Brett , Kaiser Robyn M. , Maalim Salahudin , Walker Patricia F.
Published: October 2016

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus with a significant public health impact highlighted by the ongoing epidemic in the Americas. We describe a 44-year-old male presenting to our tropical medicine center with complaints of fever, headache, joint pain, and rash after recent travel to Guyana. The patient subsequently developed gait imbalance and lower extremity weakness with clinical examination, cerebrospinal fluid studies, and magnetic resonance imaging of the spine consistent with a diagnosis of Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). ZIKV infection was confirmed via detection of ZIKV RNA in urine by polymerase chain reaction. The patient was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and experienced near-complete neurologic recovery, reporting ongoing mild paresthesia up to 2 months later. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by ZIKV and underscores the need for clinician awareness of the potential for neurological complications such as GBS with ZIKV infection.
Editorial: Announcing the Winner of the Inaugural JGI Scholar’s Award for Research Excellence (Category B: Cognitive, Developmental, Biobehavioral, and Neuroimaging Research)
Authors: Stewart Sherry H.
Published: October 2016

Editorial: Announcing the Winner of the Inaugural JGI Scholar’s Award for Research Excellence (Category B: Cognitive, Developmental, Biobehavioral, and Neuroimaging Research) Éditorial : Annonce du gagnant de la bourse inaugurale JGI pour l’excellence en recherche (Catégorie B pour la recherche cognitive, développementale, biocomportementale ou en neuroimagerie
Gambling-Related Employee Embezzlement: A Study of Swedish Newspaper Reports
Authors: Binde Per
Published: October 2016

It is well-known that severe problem gambling may lead to economic crime. This study explored a particular type of such criminality: embezzlement committed by problem gamblers in the workplace. The aim was to gain knowledge about the extent of such criminality in Sweden and the sums of money involved. The method used was a media study of newspaper reports, complemented with information about help-seeking problem gamblers obtained in interviews with therapists specializing in problem gambling and with peer counsellors in mutual support societies of problem gamblers. The results showed that gambling-related embezzlement occurs in all branches of the economy where employees have access to money. The sums embezzled can be huge and the crimes sustained over several years. However, this varies across professional categories, with bank managers embezzling larger sums of money than others, and for longer, before being detected. Although Swedish newspapers report on average about one case a month of gambling-related employee embezzlement, the true prevalence is likely to be at least 10 times higher. More efforts should be made to prevent embezzlement and other gambling-related harms in the workplace.On sait que le jeu problématique grave peut mener à la criminalité économique. Cette étude porte sur un aspect particulier de ce type de criminalité, soit le détournement commis par des joueurs problématiques dans leur milieu de travail. Elle vise à établir l’étendue de cette criminalité en Suède et les sommes d’argent en cause. À cette fin, on a effectué une analyse média des articles de journaux ainsi que des renseignements sur les joueurs problématiques ayant demandé de l’aide recueillis dans des entrevues avec des thérapeutes spécialisés en jeu problématique et avec des pairs-conseillers de groupes de soutien pour les joueurs problématiques. Il a été constaté que le détournement lié au jeu problématique se produit dans tous les secteurs de l’économie où les employés ont accès à l’argent. Les sommes détournées peuvent être considérables et les crimes, se perpétrer sur plusieurs années. La situation varie toutefois selon la catégorie des professions, les directeurs de banque détournant des sommes plus élevées que les autres, et pendant de plus longues périodes, avant d’être découverts. Bien que les journaux suédois ne rapportent en moyenne qu’un cas de détournement par un employé joueur pathologique par mois, cette étude laisse entendre que la prévalence réelle est probablement dix fois plus élevée. Il est conclu que plus d’efforts doivent être faits pour prévenir le détournement et les autres dommages liés au jeu dans le milieu de travail.
Parâmetros genéticos para caracteres de crescimento inicial em progênies de bracatinga
Authors: Menegatti Renata Diane , Mantovani Adelar , Navroski Márcio Carlos
Published: October 2016

Objetivou-se com este trabalho estimar parâmetros e valores genéticos para os caracteres diâmetro do coleto e altura de progênies de bracatinga em fase inicial de desenvolvimento. As sementes foram coletadas de 40 matrizes nativas nos municípios de Abelardo Luz, Chapadão do Lageado, Lages e Três Barras, SC. O teste de progênie foi conduzido na Fazenda Experimental do Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, em Lages, visando à seleção de materiais genéticos adaptados ao local. O delineamento utilizado foi o de blocos ao acaso, com quarenta tratamentos (progênies), 30 repetições e dez plantas por parcela em linhas simples. Aos 12 meses de idade, foram avaliados os caracteres: diâmetro do coleto e altura total dos indivíduos. Diferenças significativas foram observadas entre procedências e progênies. Os coeficientes de herdabilidade em nível de indivíduo e de média de progênies, assim como os coeficientes de variação genética foram altos, para os dois caracteres avaliados, e os maiores valores foram encontrados para as procedências de Abelardo Luz e Chapadão do Lageado, indicando um forte controle genético na herança destes caracteres e possibilidade de encontrar indivíduos superiores.
Germinação de duas espécies da caatinga sob déficit hídrico e salinidade
Authors: Santos Cibele Alves dos , Silva Natália Vaz da , Walter Letícia Siqueira , Silva Elaine Cristina Alves da , Nogueira Rejane Jurema Mansur Custódio
Published: October 2016

A germinação é uma das etapas de desenvolvimento do vegetal e para que a mesma ocorra, a presença da água é de fundamental importância. Porém, plantas que precisam se desenvolver em solos de regiões áridas e semiáridas se deparam com solos salinizados ou com pouca água disponível. Portanto, a presente pesquisa objetivou avaliar a germinação de sementes de catingueira e angico submetidas a condições de estresse salino e hídrico. Foram utilizadas sementes de Poincianella pyramidalis e Anadenanthera colubrina submetidas à salinidade, induzida pelos cloretos de cálcio e de sódio e à deficiência hídrica, induzida pelo PEG 6000, tendo o rolo de papel como substrato. Os tratamentos foram: controle (água destilada), -0,4MPa (NaCl, CaCl2 e PEG), -0,8MPa (NaCl, CaCl2 e PEG) e -1,2MPa (NaCl, CaCl2 e PEG). Avaliou-se a %G, o IVG e o TMG. Em ambas espécies não houve germinação no potencial osmótico mais negativo (-1,2MPa) de CaCl2 e de PEG 6000. Foi verificado também que a germinação nas duas espécies foi mais afetada pelo CaCl2, não havendo germinação a partir de -0,8MPa de CaCl2. As sementes de catingueira evidenciaram uma maior tolerância ao estresse salino, enquanto que as sementes de angico suportaram melhor a condição de deficiência hídrica.
Modelagem da biomassa da regeneração natural em plantio de Pinus
Authors: Cubas Rafael , Costa Emanuel Arnoni , Guimarães Finger César Augusto , Maydanchen Viviane Zaniz
Published: October 2016

Dados confiáveis de biomassa são muito importantes na avaliação de ecossistemas, e auxiliam no entendimento da contribuição das florestas nas mudanças climáticas. Variáveis que descrevem o porte da árvore, como diâmetro e altura, estão associadas diretamente com a biomassa, o que permite o uso de modelos de regressão para a estimativa desse elemento. Este trabalho se propôs estimar, por modelos de regressão, a biomassa de diferentes compartimentos de árvores de regeneração natural em um plantio de Pinus taeda L. Os dados foram obtidos por meio do método destrutivo direto, utilizando-se 100 árvores selecionadas aleatoriamente no sub-bosque de um povoamento de P. taeda. Foram analisados três modelos aritméticos, três logarítmicos e dois modelos desenvolvidos pelo processo Stepwise. As equações logarítmicas desenvolvidas pelo procedimento Stepwise apresentaram as melhores estimativas para a biomassa aérea total e do fuste. Entretanto, para os compartimentos acículas e galhos, os melhores ajustes foram observados com o modelo de Husch, e para a predição da biomassa do sistema radicular, o modelo de Berkhout mostrou-se o mais adequado.
Torrefação de cavacos de eucalipto para fins energéticos
Authors: Pereira Matheus Perdigão De Castro Freitas , Costa Emylle Veloso Santos , Corradi Pereira Bárbara Luísa , Carvalho Ana Márcia Macedo Ladeira , Oliveira Carneiro Angélica de Cássia , Costa Aylson
Published: October 2016

A torrefação, também conhecida como pré-carbonização, é um tratamento térmico, em baixas temperaturas (200 a 300 ºC), aplicado a um material lignocelulósico com o objetivo de melhorar suas propriedades energéticas. Desenvolveu-se este estudo visando avaliar o efeito da temperatura de torrefação nas propriedades de cavacos de eucalipto. Utilizando uma mufla, os cavacos de eucalipto foram submetidos a quatro tratamentos térmicos com temperaturas de 150, 200, 250 e 300 ºC. Os cavacos de madeira permaneceram nestes patamares de temperatura por dez minutos. Foram realizadas análises físicas e químicas dos cavacos torrificados e in natura. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância (ANOVA) e quando estabelecidas diferenças significativas entre eles, aplicou-se o teste Tukey, a 95% de significância. Com o aumento da temperatura de torrefação observou-se maior concentração de lignina e de carbono fixo, menor umidade de equilíbrio higroscópico, maior poder calorífico superior, menor teor de materiais voláteis e menor rendimento gravimétrico. Recomenda-se a torrefação em temperatura de 250ºC, visto que os cavacos torrificados nesta condição apresentaram melhor desempenho, com densidade energética de 4004 MJ/m³.
Efeito da assepsia superficial na germinação e incidência de fungos em sementes de espécies florestais
Authors: Garrido Pinheiro Carlos , Lazarotto Marília , Brião Muniz Marlove Fatima , Gouvêa Redin Cristina , Velho dos Santos Mateus
Published: October 2016

O objetivo deste estudo foi testar tratamentos de assepsia e sua influência na germinação e sanidade de sementes de quatro espécies florestais: Bauhinia forficata, Cedrela fissilis, Parapiptadenia rigida e Senegalia bonariensis. As sementes foram submetidas aos seguintes tratamentos: controle (T0); NaClO 1% por 3 min (T1); NaClO 2% por 1 min + 1 enxágue com água destilada (T2); álcool 70% por 1 min + triplo enxágue em água destilada + NaClO 0,5% por 1 min + triplo enxágue com água destilada (T3); Lysoform® por 1 min (T4); e álcool 70% por 1 min + NaClO 1% por 1 min + 1 enxágue com água destilada por 1 min (T5). Após, as sementes foram submetidas ao teste de germinação, sendo registrado comprimento, massa fresca e massa seca de plântulas, e teste de sanidade. Para B. forficata recomenda-se o tratamento T2, com aumento do potencial germinativo e comprimento de plântulas, sendo o mesmo recomendado para C. fissilis para aumento da germinação e redução da incidência de Fusarium sp.; todos os tratamentos de assepsia reduzem a incidência de fungos de armazenamento em P. rigida, porém não há influência sobre a germinação; e para S. bonariensis não há necessidade de assepsia. Os tratamentos de assepsia recomendados podem ser utilizados rotineiramente em sementes das espécies florestais estudadas.
Respostas ecofisiológicas de Aniba parviflora ao sombreamento
Authors: Felsemburgh Cristina Aledi Aledi , Santos Keilla Jeanne Dos , Camargo Plínio Barbosa de , Carmo Janaina Braga do , Tribuzy Edgard Siza
Published: October 2016

Com o objetivo de avaliar as respostas ecofisiológicas de mudas de macacaporanga (Aniba parviflora) em diferentes níveis de sombreamento foi conduzido um experimento no viveiro de mudas da Universidade Federal do Oeste do Pará, em Santarém-PA. Os níveis de sombreamento foram 30%, 50% e 70% de sombreamento e a pleno sol com 0% de sombreamento. O delineamento foi inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, das quais cada uma foi composta por cinco plantas. Foram avaliados altura, diâmetro, número de folhas, área foliar, área foliar específica, massa seca da raiz, caule, folhas e total, taxa assimilatória líquida, condutância estomática, transpiração, eficiência do uso da água e teores de clorofila. Os maiores valores para altura, área foliar e área foliar específica foram obtidos sob 70% de sombreamento, no entanto, para diâmetro e número de folhas os maiores valores foram sob 50% de sombreamento. O sombreamento de 70% proporcionou os maiores valores na taxa assimilatória líquida, condutância estomática, transpiração, eficiência do uso da água, clorofilas a, b e total. O sombreamento de 50% ocasionou os maiores valores na massa seca de raiz, caule, folhas e total. O nível de sombreamento de 50% proporcionou o melhor crescimento e desenvolvimento das mudas.
Lugares de arquitectura sacra. La asamblea litúrgica como referente funcional
Authors: Moreno Seguí Juan María
Published: October 2016

Los espacios de la arquitectura sacra lo son por su acogida de la función litúrgica. Su planteamiento viene ligado a la necesidad de atender al signo como medio de conectar con realidades de carácter espiritual y como tal, no sensible. En el seno de la Iglesia Católica, el concilio Vaticano II ha supuesto un giro radical en las características de las iglesias basado en la transformación de algunos aspectos de la liturgia, a partir del llamado Movimiento Litúrgico. El diseño de iglesias, en este contexto, ha de atender al planteamiento de asambleas litúrgicas apoyadas en el concepto de participación activa de los fieles.
Centro parroquial del Buen Pastor en Ponferrada, León. España
Authors: Ignacio Vicens y Jualde Arquitectos , José Antonio Ramos Abengózar Arquitecto
Published: October 2016

Premisa fundamental del proyecto ha sido el cumplimiento fidelísimo de todos los requerimientos funcionales y simbólicos que exigen las nuevas disposiciones emanadas de la reforma litúrgica. El templo se presenta como protagonista del conjunto. Se ubica en el lugar de máxima visibilidad y mejor acceso, el frente ajardinado al paseo de la Rosaleda. El espacio principal del templo se concibe básicamente como el lugar de encuentro del pueblo de Dios para la celebración gozosa del Sacrifi cio. Así, la disposición arquitectónica debe enfatizar la dimensión comunitaria y el carácter festivo del ámbito de encuentro, junto a las referencias simbólicas de una rica tradición.
Emissions of carbon tetrachloride from Europe
Authors: Graziosi Francesco , Arduini Jgor , Bonasoni Paolo , Furlani Francesco , Giostra Umberto , Manning Alistair J. , McCulloch Archie , O'Doherty Simon , Simmonds Peter G. , Reimann Stefan , Vollmer Martin K. , Maione Michela
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a long-lived radiatively active compound with the ability to destroy stratospheric ozone. Due to its inclusion in the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (MP), the last two decades have seen a sharp decrease in its large-scale emissive use with a consequent decline in its atmospheric mole fractions. However, the MP restrictions do not apply to the use of carbon tetrachloride as feedstock for the production of other chemicals, implying the risk of fugitive emissions from the industry sector. The occurrence of such unintended emissions is suggested by a significant discrepancy between global emissions as derived from reported production and feedstock usage (bottom-up emissions), and those based on atmospheric observations (top-down emissions). In order to better constrain the atmospheric budget of carbon tetrachloride, several studies based on a combination of atmospheric observations and inverse modelling have been conducted in recent years in various regions of the world. This study is focused on the European scale and based on long-term high-frequency observations at three European sites, combined with a Bayesian inversion methodology. We estimated that average European emissions for 2006–2014 were 2.2 (± 0.8) Gg yr−1, with an average decreasing trend of 6.9 % per year. Our analysis identified France as the main source of emissions over the whole study period, with an average contribution to total European emissions of approximately 26 %. The inversion was also able to allow the localisation of emission "hot spots" in the domain, with major source areas in southern France, central England (UK) and Benelux (Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg), where most industrial-scale production of basic organic chemicals is located. According to our results, European emissions correspond, on average, to 4.0 % of global emissions for 2006–2012. Together with other regional studies, our results allow a better constraint of the global budget of carbon tetrachloride and a better quantification of the gap between top-down and bottom-up estimates.
Modelling nutrient retention in the coastal zone of an eutrophic sea
Authors: Almroth-Rosell Elin , Edman Moa , Eilola Kari , Meier H. E. Markus , Sahlberg Jörgen
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The Swedish Coastal zone Model (SCM) was used at a test site, the Stockholm archipelago, located in the northern part of the central Baltic Sea, to study the retention capacity of the coastal filter on nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) loads from land and atmosphere. The efficiency of the coastal filter to permanently retain nutrients determines how much of the local nutrient loads actually reach the open sea. The SCM system is a nutrient–phytoplankton–zooplankton–detritus-type model coupled to a horizontally integrated, physical model in particular suitable for estuaries. In this study the Stockholm Archipelago, consisting of 86 sub-basins, was divided into three sub-areas: the inner, the intermediate and the outer archipelago. An evaluation of model results showed that the modelled freshwater supply agrees well with observations. The nutrient, salinity and temperature dynamics simulated by the SCM are also found to be in good or acceptable agreement with observations. The analysis showed that the Stockholm Archipelago works as a filter for nutrients that enter the coastal zone from land, but the filter efficiency is not effective enough to retain all the supplied nutrients. However, at least 65 and 72 % of the P and N, respectively, are retained during the studied period (1990–2012). A major part of the retention is permanent, which for P means burial. For N, almost 92 % of the permanent retention is represented by benthic denitrification, less than 8 % by burial, while pelagic denitrification is below 1 %. Highest total amounts of P and N are retained in the outer archipelago, where the surface area is largest. The area-specific retention of P and N, however, is highest in the smaller inner archipelago and decreases towards the open sea. A reduction scenario of the land loads of N and P showed that the filter efficiencies of N and P increase and the export of N from the archipelago decreases. About 15 years after the reduction, the export of P changes into an import of P from the open sea to the archipelago.
Wind driven snow conditions control the occurrence of contemporary marginal mountain permafrost in the Chic-Chocs Mountains, south-eastern Canada – a case study from Mont Jacques-Cartier
Authors: Davesne Gautier , Fortier Daniel , Dominé Florent , Gray James T.
Published: October 2016

Abstract. We present data from Mont Jacques-Cartier, the highest summit in the Appalachians of south-eastern Canada, to demonstrate that the occurrence of contemporary permafrost body is necessarily associated with a very thin and wind-packed winter snow cover which brings local azonal topo-climatic conditions on the dome-shaped summit. The aims of this study was (i) to understand the snow distribution pattern and snow thermo-physical properties on the Mont Jacques-Cartier summit; and (ii) to investigate the impact of snow on the spatial distribution of the ground surface temperature (GST) using temperature sensors deployed over the summit. Results showed that above the local treeline, the summit is characterized by snow cover typically less than 30 cm thick due to the physiography and surficial geomorphology of the site and the strong westerly winds. The mean annual ground surface temperature (MAGST) below this thin and wind-packed snow cover was about −1 °C in 2013 and 2014, for the higher exposed sector of the summit characterised by a block-field or sporadic herbaceous cover. In contrast, for the gentle slopes covered with stunted spruce (krummholz), and for the steep leeward slope to the SE of the summit the MAGST was around 3 °C in 2013 and 2014.
Dynamic changes on Wilkins Ice Shelf during the 2006–2009 retreat derived from satellite observations
Authors: Rankl Melanie , Fürst Johannes Jakob , Humbert Angelika , Braun Matthias Holger
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Ice shelves serve as important buttresses for upstream areas. Several large ice shelves on the Antarctic Peninsula have disintegrated or retreated, which implied dynamic consequences for upstream ice. The present study aims to assess dynamic changes on Wilkins Ice Shelf during multi-stage ice-front retreat in the last decade. A total area of 2135 ± 75 km2 was lost in the period 2008–2009. The present study uses time-series of SAR satellite observations (1994/96, 2006–2010) in order to derive variations in multi-temporal surface flow from intensity offset tracking methods. Spatial patterns of horizontal strain rate and stress components were inferred during different ice-front retreat stages. These fields are used to explain the different break-up stages and to evaluate the ice-shelf stability. For this purpose, we apply criteria which were forwarded to explain and assess past ice-shelf retreat.
The Effects of Demographic, Internal and External University Environment Factors on Faculty Job Satisfaction in Vietnam
Authors: Duong Minh-Quang
Published: October 2016

University faculty members with higher job satisfaction are more productive, creative and positive attitude towards their job. Even less is known about university faculty job satisfaction in developing countries like Vietnam. This study examines the effects of demographic, internal and external university environment factors on faculty job satisfaction in Vietnamese higher education. The study investigated 200 faculty members working in the five member colleges of Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City. The results showed that most respondents were satisfied with their jobs, and that faculty job satisfaction varied with age and discipline. The present study also found that job satisfaction was significantly influenced by demographic and internal and external university environment factors. The study’s implications for university management are also discussed.
The House Is Crashing down on Me: Integrating Mindfulness, Breath Training, and Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback for an Anxiety Disorder in a 71-Year-Old Caregiver
Authors: Moss Donald
Published: October 2016

Caregiver stress is a growing problem with an aging population, and many spouses are cast in the caregiver role for extended periods. Preexisting anxiety disorders commonly recur in the face of caregiver stress. This article narrates the case of a 71-year-old retired professional woman serving as caregiver for a husband with dementia. The stress of the caregiver role served to trigger a recurrence of a previously treated anxiety disorder. The case narrative illustrates the value of mindfulness, breath training, and heart rate variability biofeedback for the anxiety disorder, as well as an effort to instill sustainable self-regulation skills and lifestyle changes for greater resilience in this long-term situation. Some of the lifestyle-oriented interventions are summarized only briefly in this article.