bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tortricidae (Lepidoptera) from Ethiopia
Authors: Razowski Józef , Trematerra Pasquale
Published: January 2015

Twenty six new species of Tortricidae from southeast Ethiopia are reported: Russograptis albulata sp. n., Acleris baleina sp. n., Acleris harenna sp. n., Procrica dinshona sp. n., Procrica parisii sp. n., Choristoneura palladinoi sp. n., Lozotaenia karchana sp. n., Lozotaenia sciarrettae sp. n., Endothenia ethiopica sp. n., Crotalaria albapex sp. n., Eccopsis brunneopostica sp. n., Eccopsis subincana sp. n., Megalota lygaria sp. n., Bubonoxena alatheta sp. n., Plutographa xanthala sp. n., Epinotia anepenthes sp. n., Epinotia latiloba sp. n., Coccothera triorbis sp. n., Coccothera carolae sp. n., Multiquestia aequivoca sp. n., Coniostola separata sp. n., Cydia tytthaspis sp. n., Cydia dinshoi sp. n., Cydia lathetica sp. n., Grapholita insperata sp. n., Thaumatotibia spinai sp. n. Some faunistic data on the known taxa from this country are included. The material examined is too scarce to draw any zoogeographic conclusion but there are some species common to Ethiopia and the Republic of South Africa, Mozambique and Uganda or are very closely related with them. Two Acleris Hübner, 1825 described in this paper are closely allied with the Afghan species.
Chemometric analysis of the secondary metabolite profile of Yarrow (Achillea collina Becker ex Rchb.) affected by phloem feeding Myzus persicae Sulzer aphids
Authors: Giorgi Annamaria , Madeo Moira , Baumgärtner Johann , Lozzia Giuseppe Carlo
Published: January 2015

Yarrow (Achillea collina Becker ex Rchb.) has a high content of secondary metabolites including phenolic acids. Among them, hydroxycinnamic acid such as chlorogenic acid and its derivatives were found to be the most abundant ones. The phloem feeding Myzus persicae Sulzer was hypothesized to affect the contents of secondary metabolites and change the metabolite profile. A high-performance liquid chromatography technique (HPLC) was used to evaluate whether there is a difference in the phenolic profile between aphid infested and non-infested yarrow leaves. M. persicae colonies composed of between 20 and 30 individuals were allowed to feed for 10 and 20 days. Preprocessing was carried out to standardize the procedures in order to obtain optimal separation of analytes, good chromatographic peak shape and robustness of the results. The methanol extracts of leaves were analyzed by means of HPLC, and the time series of peak areas obtained from each extract were evaluated through chemometric analyses. Results of the phenolic fingerprints showed a specific chromatographic profile with 58 peaks. An autoregression analysis demonstrated the absence of correlation. The discriminant analysis carried out with the data satisfying the assumption of the absence of collinearity showed a significant effect of phloem feeding on soluble phenolic compounds and identified two peaks that separate aphid infested from non-infested plants. The hydroxycinnamic acids widely found in A. collina leaves were not affected by M. persicae feeding. The results are the basis for the current studies aiming at the identification of chemical compounds that correspond to the peaks.
Outdoor trapping and genetical characterization of populations of the webbing clothes moth Tineola bisselliella (Lepidoptera: Tineidae) in the broader area of Berlin
Authors: Krüger-Carstensen Bianca , Plarre Rudy
Published: January 2015

Adapted and effective pest management strategies for the protection of irreplaceable culture heritage as well as for the prevention of damages in households and warehouses are based on reliable information about the presence and distribution of the pest organisms. Monitoring the webbing clothes moth Tineola bisselliella at thirteen outdoor stations in the broader area of Berlin give a first idea of their occurrence in an urban area and the hinterlands. The results demonstrate a seasonal abundance in the city and a missing of this species in the countryside. Data suggest a synanthropic occurrence of the webbing clothes moth rather than an invasion from natural reservoires. Possible molecular examinations on the species and subspecies level are presented to analyze the gene flow between populations and give an impression of species mobility as well as pathways of infestation.
Using parasitoid wasps in Integrated Pest Management in museums against biscuit beetle (Stegobium paniceum) and webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella)
Authors: Querner Pascal , Biebl Stephan
Published: January 2015

Biscuit beetle (Stegobium paniceum) and webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) cause much damage to museum objects. Some objects and materials are very attractive to these two pest species and objects are often re-infested after treatment. For some years parasitoid wasps have been used in biological pest control to treat and reduce infestations of stored product pests in food processing facilities. Their application in museums is still new and in a research stage. Results from five different museums in Germany and Austria and their application are presented. Lariophagus distinguendus wasps were released against Stegobium paniceum in the municipal library Augsburger Stadtarchiv (Germany), the Ethnological Museum in Berlin (Germany) and the Picture Gallery in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna (Austria). Trichogramma evanescens were released against Tineola bisselliella in the Technisches Museum in Vienna (Austria) and in the Deutsches Museum Verkehrszentrum in Munich (Germany). Results show that for active biscuit beetle infestations good results can be expected using the Lariophagus distinguendus in museums. Active clothes moth infestations are harder to treat but with a very regular and long-term exposure to the wasps, the clothes moth population can be reduced over the years. We see the application of parasitoid wasps as part of an Integrated Pest Management concept that should be used besides regular insect monitoring and other preventive measures. Difficulties, limitations and research needs in the application of parasitoid wasps in museums are discussed.
Are synthetic pheromone captures predictive of parasitoid densities as a kairomonal attracted tool?
Authors: Bayoumy Mohamed Hassan , Kydan Mehmet Bora , Kozár Ferenc
Published: January 2015

Abundance of White Peach scale (WPS), Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (Targioni-Tozzetti) and San José scale (SJS), Diaspidiotus perniciosus (Comstock) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) adult males and their attracted parasitoids were monitored using pheromone and sticky tape traps in an orchard of Budapest, Hungary, during 2010. In this study, we tried answer on the question raised whether synthetic commercial pheromones of WSP or SJS could work as a kairomonal stimulant and positively attract higher numbers of the specialized parasitoids. Although pheromone traps attracted a wide range of parasitoid species, most of them were accidentally. However, the parasitoid Thomsonisca amathus (Walker) (Hymenoptera: E ncyrtidae) and the parasitoid Encarsia perniciosi (Tower) (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) significantly respond to the sex pheromones of WPS and SJS, respectively, suggesting that they may play an important role in host location.
Evaluation of polyphenols-rich natural compounds as treatments to prevent attacks by subterranean and drywood termites: preliminary results
Authors: Maistrello Lara , Martini Lorenzo , Macías-Pavon Irene , Bortolini Sara , Marchettini Nadia
Published: January 2015

In the view to find sustainable methods to prevent termite attacks to wooden objects and structural timbers, this study represents a preliminary step in the evaluation of some natural substances considered as effective by some African popular traditions. Dark shea cake, obtained from the kernels of Vitellaria paradoxa (Sapotaceae), is the phase just before the extraction of shea (= karitè) butter. In some West African regions, by-products from this extraction are traditionally believed to protect houses from termites. To verify if this practice has scientific basis, shea cake was used in experiments with both subterranean and drywood termites, respectively Reticulitermes lucifugus (Rossi) (Rhinotermitidae) and Kalotermes flavicollis (Fabricius) (Kalotermitidae). As shea nuts are extremely rich in polyphenols, the trials included a comparison with tannins from chestnut (Castanea sativa). Short-term experiments to evaluate repellency and feeding deterrence of the two compounds were performed. Results showed differences in the behavior of the two termites species and that shea cake is significantly more repellent than chestnut tannins, especially for K. flavicollis. No feeding deterrence activity was detected for either substance for either termite species. Further investigation is currently being performed to better clarify how these compounds affect termite biology.
Development of Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera Bostrichidae) on durum wheat kernels and semolina
Authors: Limonta Lidia , Morosini Matteo Carlo , Locatelli Daria Patrizia
Published: January 2015

he time necessary to larvae of Rhyzopertha dominica to drill kernels with or without dusts (semolina or debris from adults), and the possibility of development on semolina were evaluated. T ests were carried out on durum wheat kernels (Triticum durum Desfontaines), debris deriving from rearing, and semolina. Development was observed also on 0.5 and 6 mm of semolina and of debris. T hirty replicates were carried out for each test. The number of first instar larvae, that successfully drill sound kernels within 10 days, was higher by adding semolina or debris. When only kernels were provided, the time needed to larvae to drill increased. Development and the number of emerging adults were not significantly influenced by the addition of semolina to the kernels. Larvae couldn’t develop on 0.5 mm, while an equal number of individuals completed the development to adult in 6 mm of semolina as in the tests with kernels. When development was on debris, a lower number of emerged adults was observed.
New mite species associated with certain plant species from Guam
Authors: Reddy Gadi V.P. , Kikuchi Rosalie , Remolona Jenelyn E.
Published: January 2015

Several new mite species have been reported from certain plants from Guam. Most remarkably, the spider mite, Tetranychus marianae (Prostigmata: Tetranychidae) and the predatory mite Phytoseius horridus (Mesostigmata: Phytoseiidae) (Solanum melongena) have been found on eggplant. The noneconomically important species of Brevipalpus californicus(Banks) Prostigmata: Tenuipalpidae),Eupodes sp. (Acarina: Eupodidae) and predator Cunaxa sp. (Prostigmata: Cunaxidae) have been reported on guava (Psidium guajava L.). Also, the non-economically important species Brevipalpus californicus Prostigmata: Tenuipalpidae), Lepidoglyphus destructor (Astigmata: Glycyphagidae) and a predator Amblyseius obtusus, species group Amblyseius near lentiginosus (Mesostigmata: Phytoseiidae), have been recorded on cycad (Cycas micronesica).
Morphological and physiological adaptations of wood-boring beetle larvae in timber
Authors: Chiappini Elisabetta , Aldini Rinaldo Nicoli
Published: January 2015

Beetles which develop boring tunnels inside and feed on seasoned wood present morphological and physiological adaptations related to the specific activities of their larvae in such a peculiar substrate. As far as protection of antiquarian goods made of wood is concerned, we are dealing mainly with three Coleoptera families, namely Lyctidae, Anobiidae, and Cerambycidae, which include species with wood-boring larvae. The adaptation to wood-boring and wood-feeding activities in beetle larvae was reached independently by phyletic lines not closely related, as a convergent evolution due to feeding behaviour. Among these adaptations, the following are examined with reference to the three families mentioned above. The conformation and activity of the larval mandibles and their possible correlations with the characteristics of the wood attacked are considered together with the presence of body structures for anchoring the larvae to the wood substrate inside the tunnel during the gnawing action. Intracellular endosymbiosis (endocytobiosis) with yeasts or bacteria, capable of supplementing larval diets lacking in some essential nutrients, and its main features are summarized. Last, structural and functional characteristics are discussed as regards tracheal spiracles, provided with filter devices important for preventing intrusion of wood powder into tracheae from larval tunnels as well as useful for avoiding dehydration.
Preliminary data on Stegobium paniceum (L.) larval head sensilla
Authors: Romani Roberto , Rossi Stacconi Marco Valerio , Chiappini Elisabetta
Published: January 2015

Sensory structures of Stegobium paniceum (L.) head have been investigated under Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopes and described. Their possible function is hypothesized.
An attempt to reconstruct the natural and cultural history of the webbing clothes moth Tineola bisselliella Hummel (Lepidoptera: Tineidae)
Authors: Plarre Rudy , Krüger-Carstensen Bianca
Published: January 2015

It is generally accepted that the natural habitats of most pest insects can be found outside the synanthropic environment in layers of leaf litter, under bark, as well as in rodent or bird nests. Indeed, most of the common pests have been reported as being facultative nidicolous. Therefore infestation of commodities by pest insects out of these reservoirs is one considerable possibility. However, the likelihood of a pest´s occurrence and survival out-doors largely depends on its ecological potential and competitiveness against other species of the same ecological guild. Some pest species are rarely found in wild habitats, especially in those regions where they are not native and where they have been introduced by man. The fabric pest Tineola bisselliella serves as a good example. Most likely originating in Central or Southern Africa this insect was introduced into Europe probably not earlier than the late 18th century. Being more tolerant to dry environments than other fabric pests its economical importance increased during the 20th century when in-door climates changed because of central heating systems. Its occurrence in out-door natural habitats must be regarded as accidental. Reported founds of webbing clothes moth larvae in bird nests e.g. have been largely overstated in the literature. T. bisselliella should be regarded as an eusynanthropic species.
Chironomid (Diptera, Chironomidae) species assemblages in northeastern Algerian hydrosystems
Authors: Chaib N. , Fouzari A. , Bouhala Z. , Samraoui B. , Rossaro B.
Published: January 2015

The aim of this paper was to analyze the distribution of chironomids (Diptera, Chironomidae), and determine their substrate preferences, from two hydrosystems located in northeastern Algeria: the Kebir-East and the Seybouse wadis. Sixty-five species were recorded in 49 sampling sites distributed along the main courses of the two hydrographic nets and their tributaries. The majority of taxa comprised cosmopolitan species widely distributed along these two hydrosystems. Cricotopus (Cricotopus) bicinctus showed the highest abundance and frequency of occurrence (29.52%) and was widespread in almost all the sampling sites. Species richness ranged from 4 to 23, Shannon diversity between 0.15 and 0.90, Evenness from 0.23 to 1. A cluster analysis was carried out to represent the different groups of sites sharing similar species composition. Agglomerative cluster analysis grouped the sampling sites into four clusters according to the community data. An Indval analysis was then carried out to detect indicator species for each group of the sampling sites. Cricotopus (Isocladius) sylvestris was indicator of the first group of the sampling sites. Orthocladius pedestris, Rheocricotopus chalybeatus and C. bicinctus were indicators of the second group, and Polypedilum cultellatum of the third group. The fourth group was not characterized by any species. Indval analysis allowed also to determine species preferences for substrate size: Corynoneura scutellata and Dicrotendipes nervosus emphasized a preference to fine gravel, and Glyptotendipes pallens to fine sand.
Acleris lorquiniana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), in Central Italy
Authors: Pinzari M. , Pinzari M.
Published: January 2015

Acleris lorquiniana (Duponchel, 1835) is a Palaearctic species that is known from Central and Northern Europe. This species was mentioned as occurring in Italy, but no precise collecting data were provided. The presence of Marsh button, A. lorquiniana, in Italy is confirmed by a single specimen collected in Central Italy that is identified by both external habitus and a dissection of the genitalia.
Interaction between the entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana (Ascomycota: Hypocreales) and the parasitoid wasp, Aphidius colemani Viereck (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Emami F. , Alichi M. , Minaei K.
Published: January 2015

The effect of the entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana, on the biological characteristics of Aphidius colemani, a parasitoid of the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, was studied under laboratory conditions. Third-instar nymphs of green peach aphid were infected with 5/3×105 conidia/mL of B. bassiana, which was determined to be the lethal concentration 50 dose. They were then offered to mated female parasitoids for 24 h at different intervals. Results showed that by prolonging the release intervals of parasitoids, the number of mummies and percent emergence of parasitoids were reduced. Moreover, production of male offspring increased in the F1 generation of parasitoids. The interference of B. bassiana with parasitoid development was also studied by first exposing the aphid hosts to the parasitoids for 24 h and subsequently spraying them with B. bassiana 24, 48, 72, and 96 h after exposure. Results showed that by prolonging fungal spraying intervals, the number of mummies and percent emergence of parasitoids were increased. It appeared that the best time for applying B. bassiana would be three to four days after parasitisation.
Wash resistance and repellent properties of Africa University mosquito blankets against mosquitoes
Authors: Lukwa N. , Makuwaza A. , Chiwade T. , Mutambu S.L. , Zimba M. , Munosiyei P.
Published: January 2015

The effect of permethrin-treated Africa University (AU) mosquito blankets on susceptible female Anopheles gambiae sensu lato mosquitoes was studied under laboratory conditions at Africa University Campus in Mutare, Zimbabwe. Wash resistance (ability to retain an effective dose that kills ≥80% of mosquitoes after a number of washes) and repellence (ability to prevent ≥80% of mosquito bites) properties were studied. The AU blankets were wash resistant when 100% mortality was recorded up to 20 washes, declining to 90% after 25 washes. Untreated AU blankets did not cause any mortality on mosquitoes. However, mosquito repellence was 96%, 94%, 97.9%, 87%, 85% and 80.7% for treated AU blankets washed 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 times, respectively. Mosquito repellence was consistently above 80% from 0-25 washes. In conclusion, AU blankets washed 25 times were effective in repelling and killing An. gambiae sl mosquitoes under laboratory conditions.
Survivorship and longevity of Diamesa mendotae Muttkowski (Diptera: Chironomidae) under snow
Authors: Anderson A.M. , Kranzfelder P. , Bouchard Jr R.W. , Ferrington Jr. L.C.
Published: January 2015

Diamesa mendotae Muttkowski commonly grow and emerge from groundwater dominated streams in winter. Previous estimates of longevity for adults of D. mendotae collected from the snow surface averaged 18.6 days post-collection, with 76.9% of individuals dying between Day 10 and Day 30 post-collection and 4.4% surviving over 40 days. Maximum longevities for males and females were 48 and 54 days, respectively. In this paper, we report survivorship and longevity of fieldcollected adults of D. mendotae kept at ambient snow temperature conditions. Adults (n=140) were collected in February from snow along groundwater-dominated sections of the Kinnickinnic River (Wisconsin, USA). All individuals were placed in vials, buried in snow, and retrieved in batches of 10 males and 10 females at 4-day intervals for 28 days. Once retrieved, adults were maintained at 6°C in controlled environmental chambers to determine survivorship and longevity. All individuals survived snow burial treatment, indicating they are capable of surviving sub-freezing field conditions for at least 28 days. Estimates of adult maximum longevity were as high as 66 days, higher than previous estimates for this genus. Our results suggest adults of D. mendotae can persist under snow cover, with high survivorship and longevity, potentially increasing their probability of successful reproduction in regions where lethal winter air temperatures occur.
Church versus Ogun: Subversion and Irony in Wole Soyinka’s The Road
Authors: Gomba O
Published: January 2015

Inverted subversion is the thrust of irony in Wole Soyinka’s The Road. The play reveals a space of foreboding which is charged with confrontations. The cosmos of the dramatis personae is designed as a kind of high mimetic arena in which all the participants are trapped as they seek to find meaning and value for their daily existence. Their lives are soused in irony, and they are caught on the quicksand between Church and Ogun. A psychic figure spins everyone and everything in thrall and into a vortex of persuasions which keeps knowledge and truth in a state of convolution from one point to another. The aim of this study is to examine the dimension of this subverted space, to mark out the indices of its subversion, and to situate the pervasive tangles within the matrix of irony. It is also to locate the median of the conflict, the lead character, whose past and present collide within him as he propagates Ogunian perceptions in a manner that leaves a grim smudge on both deity and propagator. It will be argued that the confusion of values which are entrenched in the propagator extends as a contest of values in the play.Keywords: Soyinka, Subversion, Irony, Church and Ogun.
Use of Instructional Technology for Effective Management of Primary Schools in Anambra State
Authors: Ofojebe WN , Olibie EI , Chukwuma ETC
Published: January 2015

This study examined the use of instructional technology for effective management of primary schools in Anambra State. Four research questions guided the study in relation to the availability and usage of Instructional Technology (IT) in teaching-learning activities; its influence on student learning and academic achievements; and the factors influencing effective use of (IT) in primary schools in the Anambra State of Nigeria. The study employed the descriptive survey research design. The systematic sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 420 teachers from 52 primary schools (at interval of 20) selected out of a total population of 8, 396 teachers within the 1,040 primary schools in Anambra State, including 52 head teachers selected out of a total population of 1,040 head teachers within the primary schools in Anambra State. A questionnaire titled: Instructional Technology for Effective Management of Primary Schools Questionnaire (ITEMPSQ), which contained 40 items and designed on a 4 point scale was used to collect data for this study. The instrument was validated by two experts; one expert from the Department of Educational Management and Policy, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka and the other from the Department of Primary Education Studies, Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, Delta State. A pilot-test was conducted by the researchers on the instrument and was found to have a reliability coefficient of 0.86 using a Cronbach alpha coefficient measurement to appraise the reliability of the research instrument. Data was equally analyzed using mean score at 2.50 rating and standard deviation. Consequently, from the findings of the study, it was recommended that primary education be adequately funded in Nigeria through adequate budgetary allocation; constant and continuous staff training, retraining for teachers; and effective implementation of ICT policy couple with adequate provision of instructional technology facilities in teaching-learning activities in the primary schools.Key words: Instructional Technologies, Effective Management of Primary Schools
Language Attitude and Nigerian Pidgin
Authors: Obi EI
Published: January 2015

Studies in language attitude, a socio-linguistic phenomenon, exhibit language users’ disposition towards languages. The disposition could be negative, positive, ambivalent or lackadaisical, depending on social, psychological, historical and political factors associated with the languages. There could also be a shift in users’ attitudes towards languages in certain situations. This study investigates the general attitudes of Nigerians from different social strata towards Nigerian Pidgin/Creole (NP). The subjects’ attitudes to NP are elicited through library and ethnographic research. The findings of the study reveal that Nigerians have positive, negative and ambivalent attitudes towards NP. However, positive attitude is dominant. The study also reveals that adequate attention has not been given to NP by language policy makers and linguists in Nigeria. The paper, therefore, advocates a language policy that will recognize NP as lingua franca in Nigeria, as well as the development of its linguistic features.
Politeness in Language Use: A Study of Undergraduates of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
Authors: Ifechelobi JN
Published: January 2015

Politeness in language is a very important aspect of communication. This can be referred to as ‘tact’. Normally conversation works best if both parties are cooperative. This involves among other things avoiding speaking or behaving in a thoughtless and inconsiderate manner .We each have expectations as to how we should be addressed by the various people we meet in the various contents in which we meet them. The study of politeness is the study of the ways in which these expectations are met or are not. Politeness is regarded as the linguistic expression of social relationships. Being linguistically polite involves speaking to people appropriately especially ones’ superior in the light of one’s relationship. Given the importance of politeness in social interaction this paper sets out to investigate the politeness strategies students employ and to discover the extent of impoliteness among the students’ with their lecturers as well as the repercussions. A non participant observation method was used to ascertain the level of the politeness strategies of students. The theoretical framework used to analyse the discourse was Brown and Levison’s Politeness theory. It was discovered that there were situations where students’ utterances and actions amount to impoliteness and face threatening acts (FTA).Such behaviours often lead to frictions and conflicts. The paper concludes that for a harmonious and peaceful co-existence students must avoid face threatening acts in their language use.Key words: Politeness, face, communication, face threatening acts, social interactions, conflict, imposition
The Death of Ken Saro-Wiwa: Its Moral Implications on Nigeria
Authors: Saale LB , David P
Published: January 2015

This study is centered on the death of Ken Saro-Wiwa and its moral implications on Nigeria. The study adopts both the philosophical and sociological approaches. Findings from the study revealed that Ken Saro-Wiwa was outspoken among a group of nine activists from Ogoni of Niger Delta region of Nigeria; popularly called ‘the Ogoni Nine’ who were executed by hanging in 1995 by the military government of General Sani Abacha. Ken Saro-Wiwa and his fellow Ogoni activists were arrested, detailed and charged by a ‘Kangaroo’ court with murder and conspiracy to murder of four prominent Ogoni men who were allegedly brutally murdered by a Mob on the 21st May, 1994 at Giokoo in Gokana Local Government Areas of Ogoni. Ken Saro-Wiwa, an author, playwright, MOSOP spokesman was viewed by different people in different ways. For some people he was a freedom fighter, an ethical egoist, a utilitarian, an existentialist, while to others, he was a controversial figure. The ideas which Ken Saro-Wiwa and nine other Ogonis died for include justices, equity and freedom of all Nigerians. These ideas found expression in the Ogoni Bill of Right (OBR) and many of Ken Saro-Wiwa’s write ups, epistles and books. The death of the nine Ogoni activists was pathetic, brutal, sorrowful, unjust, sacrificial and motivating in nature. By implications the death of Ken Saro-Wiwa and other nine Ogoni activists have raised consciousness among minority people of Nigeria over their fundamental human rights and increase agitations for resources control and true federalism amongst others.
Biogas and Solar Energy Use in Rural Institutions in Southern Province, Rwanda
Authors: Muhizi T , Twarabamenye E , Ndahayo F , Hakizimana A
Published: January 2015

In Rwanda, 85% of primary energy comes from biomass. To alleviate this huge dependence, the Government banks on use of alternative sources of energy prioritising solar energy and biogas in rural areas. This paper analyses the use of the two sources in 45 rural institutions in Southern Province, using data collected through desk study and survey. The research reveals that these sources of energy are known in Rwanda, but very few rural institutions are equipped with such systems. Solar energy and biogas are used for lighting and cooking respectively. Their adoption is still government and NGOs driven. Institutions equipped with such systems experience lack of skilled technicians resulting in poor maintenance and malfunctioning. Lack of funds, little insight on the advantages of using the two sources of energy, and existing financial facilities set up by the government to promote their dissemination are major obstacles to their adoption. Therefore, departments in charge of energy should organise awareness campaign for heads of institutions to inform them on the advantages of using these energy sources. They should also set up and run specific training programmes to avail technicians capable of installing, operating and maintaining solar or biogas power systems.Keywords: Rwanda, Southern province, biogas, solar energy, uses, constraints.
Data Mining for Cyber Security
Authors: Ikemelu CRK
Published: January 2015

Cyber security is concerned with protecting computer and network system from corruption due to malicious software including Trojan horses and virus. Security of our network system is becoming imperative as massive sensitive information is transmitted across the network. In this research paper, data mining application for cyber security is highly explored. We discussed various cyber-terrorism or attack committed across the network such as malicious intrusion, credit card fraud, identity thefts, and infrastructure attack. Data mining techniques such as classification, anomaly, link analysis and so on are being applied to detect or prevent the aforementioned cyber-terrorism or attack. Recommendations were made and suggestion for further study was indicated.
Ice phase in altocumulus clouds over Leipzig: remote sensing observations and detailed modelling
Authors: Simmel M. , Bühl J. , Ansmann A. , Tegen I.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. The present work combines remote sensing observations and detailed cloud modeling to investigate two altocumulus cloud cases observed over Leipzig, Germany. A suite of remote sensing instruments was able to detect primary ice at rather warm temperatures of −6 °C. For comparison, a second mixed phase case at about −25 °C is introduced. To further look into the details of cloud microphysical processes a simple dynamics model of the Asai–Kasahara type is combined with detailed spectral microphysics forming the model system AK-SPECS. Vertical velocities are prescribed to force the dynamics as well as main cloud features to be close to the observations. Subsequently, sensitivity studies with respect to ice microphysical parameters are carried out with the aim to quantify the most important sensitivities for the cases investigated. For the cases selected, the liquid phase is mainly determined by the model dynamics (location and strength of vertical velocity) whereas the ice phase is much more sensitive to the microphysical parameters (ice nuclei (IN) number, ice particle shape). The choice of ice particle shape may induce large uncertainties which are in the same order as those for the temperature-dependent IN number distribution.
Ocean acidification accelerates dissolution of experimental coral reef communities
Authors: Comeau S. , Carpenter R. C. , Lantz C. A. , Edmunds P. J.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. Ocean acidification (OA) poses a severe threat to tropical coral reefs, yet much of what is know about these effects comes from individual corals and algae incubated in isolation under high pCO2. Studies of similar effects on coral reef communities are scarce. To investigate the response of coral reef communities to OA, we used large outdoor flumes in which communities composed of calcified algae, corals, and sediment were combined to match the percentage cover of benthic communities in the shallow back reef of Moorea, French Polynesia. Reef communities in the flumes were exposed to ambient (~ 400 μatm) and high pCO2 (~ 1300 μatm) for 8 weeks, and calcification rates measured for the constructed communities including the sediments. Community calcification was reduced by 59% under high pCO2, with sediment dissolution explaining ~ 50% of this decrease; net calcification of corals and calcified algae remained positive but was reduced by 29% under elevated pCO2. These results show that, despite the capacity of coral reef calcifiers to maintain positive net accretion of calcium carbonate under OA conditions, reef communities might transition to net dissolution as pCO2 increases, particularly at night, due to enhanced sediment dissolution.
Downward particle flux and carbon export in the Beaufort Sea, Arctic Ocean; the Malina experiment
Authors: Miquel J.-C. , Gasser B. , Martín J. , Marec C. , Babin M. , Fortier L. , Forest A.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. As part of the international, multidisciplinary project Malina, downward particle fluxes were investigated by means of a drifting multi-sediment trap mooring deployed at three sites in the Canadian Beaufort Sea in late summer 2009. Mooring deployments lasted for 28–50 h and targeted the shelf-break and the slope along the Beaufort–Mackenzie continental margin, as well as the edge between the Mackenzie Shelf and the Amundsen Gulf. Besides analyses of C and N, the collected material was investigated for pigments, phyto- and microzooplankton, faecal pellets and swimmers. The measured fluxes were relatively low, in the range of 11–54 mg m−2 d−1 for the total mass, 1–15 mg C m−2 d−1 for organic carbon and 0.2–2.5 mg N m−2 d−1 for nitrogen. Comparison with a long-term trap dataset from the same sampling area showed that the short-term measurements were at the lower end of the high variability characterizing a rather high flux regime during the study period. The sinking material consisted of aggregates and particles that were characterized by the presence of hetero- and autotrophic microzooplankters and diatoms and by the corresponding pigment signatures. Faecal pellets contribution to sinking carbon flux was important, especially at depth where they represented up to 25% of the total carbon flux. The vertical distribution of different morphotypes of pellets showed a marked pattern with cylindrical faeces (produced by calanoid copepods) present mainly within the euphotic zone, whereas elliptical pellets (produced mainly by smaller copepods) were more abundant at mesopelagic depths. These features, together with the density of matter within the pellets, highlighted the role of the zooplankton community in the transformation of carbon issued from the primary production and the transition of that carbon from the productive surface zone to the Arctic Ocean's interior. Our data indicate that sinking carbon flux in this late summer period is primarily the result of a heterotrophic driven ecosystem as compared to the system driven by autotrophy earlier in the year.
Predictors and mechanisms of the drought-influenced mortality of tree species along the isohydric to anisohydic continuum in a decade-long study of a central US temperate forest
Authors: Gu L. , Pallardy S. G. , Hosman K. P. , Sun Y.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. Using decade-long continuous observations of tree mortality and predawn leaf water potential (ψpd) at the Missouri Ozark AmeriFlux (MOFLUX) site, we studied how the mortality of important tree species varied along the isohydric to anisohydric continuum and how such variations may be predicted. Water stress determined inter-annual variations in tree mortality with a time delay of one year or more, which was predicted by predawn leaf water potential integral (PLWPI), mean effective precipitation interval (a time period with no daily precipitation rates exceeding a threshold) with a daily threshold precipitation at 5 mm day−1 (MEPI5), and precipitation variability index (PVI). Positive temperature anomaly integral (PTAI) and vapor pressure deficit integral (VPDI) also worked reasonably well, particularly for moderate droughts. The extreme drought of the year 2012 drastically increased the mortality of all species in the subsequent year. Regardless of the degree of isohydry and drought intensity, the ψpd of all species recovered rapidly after sufficiently intense rain events. This, together with a lack of immediate leaf and branch desiccation, suggests that hydraulic disconnection in the xylem was absent even during extreme drought and tree death was caused by significant but indirect effects of drought. We also found that species occupying middle positions along the isohydric to anisohydric continuum suffered less mortality than those at either extremes (i.e. extremely isohydric or extremely anisohydric). Finally, our study suggested that species differences in mortality mechanisms can be overwhelmed and masked in extreme droughts and should be examined in a broad range of drought intensity.
Definition of efficient scarcity-based water pricing policies through stochastic programming
Authors: Macian-Sorribes H. , Pulido-Velazquez M. , Tilmant A.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. Finding ways to improve the efficiency in water usage is one of the most important challenges in integrated water resources management. One of the most promising solutions is the use of scarcity-based pricing policies. This contribution presents a procedure to design efficient pricing policies based on the opportunity cost of water at the basin scale. Time series of the marginal value of water are obtained using a stochastic hydro-economic model. Those series are then post-processed to define step pricing policies, which depend on the state of the system at each time step. The case study of the Mijares river basin system (Spain) is used to illustrate the method. The results show that the application of scarcity-based pricing policies increases the economic efficiency of water use in the basin, allocating water to the highest-value uses and generating an incentive for water conservation during the scarcity periods. The resulting benefits are close to those obtained with the economically optimal decisions.
Snowfall in the Himalayas: an uncertain future from a little-known past
Authors: Viste E. , Sorteberg A.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. Snow and ice provide large amounts of meltwater to the Indus, Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. This study combines present-day observations and reanalysis data with climate model projections to estimate the amount of snow falling over the basins today and in the last decades of the 21st century. Estimates of present-day snowfall based on a combination of temperature and precipitation from reanalysis data and observations, vary by factors of 2–4. The spread is large, not just between the reanalysis and the observations, but also between the different observational data sets. With the strongest anthropogenic forcing scenario (RCP 8.5), the climate models project reductions in annual snowfall by 30–50% in the Indus Basin, 50–60% in the Ganges Basin and 50–70% in the Brahmaputra Basin, by 2071–2100. The reduction is due to increasing temperatures, as the mean of the models show constant or increasing precipitation throughout the year in most of the region. With the strongest anthropogenic forcing scenario, the mean elevation where rain changes to snow – the rain/snow line – creeps upward by 400–900 m, in most of the region by 700–900 m. The largest relative change in snowfall is seen in the upper, westernmost sub-basins of the Brahmaputra. With the strongest forcing scenario, most of this region will have temperatures above freezing, especially in the summer. The projected reduction in annual snowfall is 65–75%. In the upper Indus, the effect of a warmer climate on snowfall is less extreme, as most of the terrain is high enough to have temperatures sufficiently far below freezing today. A 20–40% reduction in annual snowfall is projected.
Significado da prática social do enfermeiro com e a partir do Sistema Único de Saúde brasileiro
Authors: Stein Backes Dirce , Stein Backes Marli , Lorenzini Erdmann Alacoque , Büscher Andreas , Salazar-Maya Angela María
Published: January 2015

Este trabajo tiene por fin posibilitar una mirada hacia el rol profesional del enfermero en el y desde el Sistema Único de Salud brasileño; así mismo, comprender el significado de su práctica social en este campo de discusiones y significaciones teórico-prácticas. Se utilizó como referencial metodológico la Grounded Theory y como técnicas de recolección de datos la entrevista, realizada de mayo a diciembre del 2007, con 35 profesionales de la salud y otros. El análisis de los datos evidenció que el Sistema Único de Salud puede considerarse una estrategia facilitadora y estimulante del proceso de ampliación y consolidación del cuidado de enfermería como práctica social a medida que señala hacia un nuevo abordaje de intervención social, por la valoración del ser humano como ser singular y multidimensional, insertado en su contexto real y concreto.
A influência das características socioeconômicas no perfil obstétrico de puérperas
Authors: Leite Franciéle Marabotti Costa , Barbosa Tatiane Kely de Oliveira , Bravim Larissa Regina , Amorim Maria Helena Costa , Primo Cândida Caniçali
Published: January 2015

Objetivo: examinar la relación entre el número de consultas de prenatal, tipo de parto y número de embarazos y variables socioeconómicas. Métodos: estudio transversal, cuantitativo, realizado en una Maternidad, en el municipio de São Mateus, norte del departamento de Espírito Santo (Brasil). La muestra fue de 323 puérperas. Resultados: hubo significancia estadística (p < 0,05) al relacionar el número de consultas de prenatal con el rango de edad, situación conyugal, raza/color, ingresos de la familia, escolaridad, ocupación y categoría de admisión. No hubo significancia estadística entre la variable clase económica y número de consultas de prenatal (p > 0,05). Se nota que no hubo asociación significante (p > 0,05) entre el tipo de parto y las variables: rango de edad, raza/color y ocupación. El tipo de parto presentó significancia estadística al ser asociado con situación conyugal, ingresos de la familia, clase económica, escolaridad y categoría de admisión (p < 0,05). Hubo significancia estadística al asociar el número de embarazos con la raza/color, ingresos de la familia, clase económica y categoría de admisión (p > 0,05). Conclusiones: las características socioeconómicas pueden influir en el número de consultas de prenatal, número de embarazos y tipo de parto.
Estudo das não conformidades no trabalho da enfermagem: evidências relevantes para melhoria da qualidade hospitalar
Authors: Ribeiro Helen Cristiny Teodoro Couto , Campos Lismar Isis , Manzo Bruna Figueiredo , Brito Maria José Menezes , Alves Marília
Published: January 2015

Objetivo: identificar las no conformidades relativas al trabajo de la enfermería en hospitales de Minas Gerais (Brasil). Método: investigación cuantitativa, de carácter descriptivo. Los datos se recolectaron de los informes de Diagnóstico Organizacional realizados por el Sistema Brasileño de Acreditación de 37 hospitales de los 45 evaluados en 2009 (muestra de 82,22%). Las no conformidades relativas al trabajo de la enfermería se clasificaron en tres grupos: cuidar/asistir, administrar/dirigir y educar/investigar. Resultados: los resultados de este estudio señalaron distanciamiento entre lo establecido por el Sistema Brasileño de Acreditación y la práctica de enfermería. Revelaron puntos importantes por corregirse para la seguridad de los pacientes, organización de los hospitales y cumplimiento de la legislación brasileña actual. Sin embargo, se observó que las no conformidades relativas a la enfermería están intrínsecamente conectadas al trabajo de los demás profesionales de salud. Conclusiones: la resolución de las no conformidades identificadas no está en la gobernabilidad exclusiva del equipo de enfermería. Es necesario un cambio de cultura y la elaboración de una política organizacional por los dirigentes de los hospitales que le asegure al equipo multiprofesional oportunidades para promover la mejora permanente de la calidad y seguridad en la cotidianidad de los hospitales.
Pensamiento crítico en enfermería: de la racionalidad técnica a la práctica reflexiva
Authors: Moreno Inmaculada Minguez , Siles José
Published: January 2015

Objetivos: identificar la evolución de la enfermería española desde la racionalidad técnica a la práctica reflexiva. Mostrar evidencia respecto al pensamiento crítico y la práctica reflexiva identificando sus paralelismos con la enfermería sociocrítica. Clarificar la influencia histórica de los paradigmas imperantes en España durante la segunda mitad del siglo XX. Materiales y métodos: se realizó una revisión temática descriptiva. Se utilizaron fuentes primarias: Compte, Hume, Bacon, Habermas, Foucault y Horkheimer, y fuentes secundarias relacionadas con la profesión como: Index, SciELO. Resultado: la evolución de la racionalidad técnica a la práctica reflexiva se produjo con los cambios de pensamiento dominantes en cada época. La práctica reflexiva y el pensamiento crítico se muestran necesarios para entender la enfermería sociocrítica. La situación histórica española determinó los cambios en la enfermería de este país. Conclusiones: la evolución del pensamiento enfermero en España siguió la evolución de los paradigmas de pensamiento dominantes. La práctica reflexiva y el pensamiento crítico descrito por Habermas permiten la emancipación y, por extensión, la autonomía del paciente por la vía de la participación activa en la solución de sus problemas de salud. Este proceso se origina con la toma de conciencia del papel que deben desempeñar el profesional y el ciudadano/paciente en la planificación de los cuidados de salud. Tanto el perfil de la mujer fraguado por el franquismo, como la llegada de la democracia a España, fueron determinantes para la evolución estudiada, el primero actuando como asfixiante y la segunda como motor.