bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Hydrogel Polymer on Water Productivity, Weed Control Efficiency and Yield of Broadcast-Seeded Rice
Authors: Abd El-Naby S. S. M  , El-Ghandor A. M. A. , El-Darag I. H. Abou , Mahmoud M. A.
Published: January 2024

A field study was investigated at the Experimental Farm of Rice Research Department, Sakha Agricultural Research Station, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt during summer seasons of 2020 and 2021 to study the capability of hydrogel polymer application under different irrigation intervals and chemical weed control on water conservation and weed control under Egyptian broadcast-seeded rice (Giza 179 cv). A strip spit design with three replicates was used during the study. Three irrigation intervals (irrigation every 5 days (I1), 10 days (I2) and every 15 days (I3) were randomly devoted in horizontal plots, hydrogel polymer at rate of 20 kg ha-1 as compared to normal soil (zero hydrogel) were assigned in vertical plots, while three weed control treatments (thiobencarb at 2.38 kg ai ha-1 at 9 days after sowing (DAS) followed by (fb) bispyribac-sodium at 0.038 kg ai ha-1 + halosulfuron-methyl at 0.036 Kg ha-1 applied at 25 DAS (W1), Thiobencarb at 2.38 kg ai ha-1 fb cyhalofop-butyl at 0.286 Kg ai ha-1 + halosulfuron-methyl at 0.036 Kg ha-1  applied at 25 DAS (W2) as compared to un-treated weedy check plots (W3) were allocated in endo/sub-sub plots. Results showed that irrigation every 10 and 15 days saved about 26.4% and 35.8% of applied water, respectively, while the yield reduced by 31.8% and 56.1% respectively compared to irrigation every 5-days as average of the two seasons. The lowest dry weights of grasses and total weeds were recorded of I1, while C. difformis weed was absent under I3 during 2020 and 2021 seasons. Hydrogel polymer application conserved about 14.8% of applied water and improved rice grain yield by 16.5% as well as increased water productivity to be 0.48 kg m-3 compared to 0.32 kg m-3 for without hydrogel treatment. Hydrogel encouraged C. difformis appearance while decreased grasses and total weeds compared to without hydrogel. Sequential herbicides application W1 recorded the best weed control against grasses, C. difformis and total weeds in addition to higher WCE (91.9%) against total weeds consequently produced the highest values of rice dry matter, yield and its attributes during both seasons of study. The interaction of I1 x hydrogel x W1 achieved  the highest grain yield (10.11 t ha-1) with same significance for I1 x without hydrogel x W1 (9.75 t ha-1), while I2 x hydrogel x W1 recorded the highest water productivity (0.78 kg m-3) and produced 7.63 t ha-1 of rice grain yield by increasing of 20.7% than I2 x without hydrogel x W1 as average for 2020 and 2021 seasons.
Effect of Herbicides Mixture on Productivity and Profitability of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Cultivation in Rainfed Subtropics
Authors: Sekhar M. , Zeeshan Md , Dahatonde Kalpana Narayan , Sulochna  , Singh Omkar , Shivangi  , Heisnam Punabati
Published: January 2024

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a vital cereal crop contributing significantly to global food security. The cultivation of wheat in rainfed subtropical regions faces multifaceted challenges, with weed infestation being a primary concern. Herbicides are crucial tools for weed management, and the synergistic or antagonistic effects of herbicide mixtures have gained attention as potential strategies to enhance their efficacy. This review synthesizes existing literature on the effects of herbicides mixtures on the productivity and profitability of rainfed wheat cultivation in subtropical climates. The review systematically analyzes studies conducted globally, focusing on various herbicides combinations and their application methodologies. It encompasses investigations into the ecological impact, weed control efficiency, and effects on wheat yield when utilizing herbicides mixtures. Special emphasis is placed on understanding the interactions between herbicides, considering factors such as climate, soil characteristics, and cropping practices unique to rainfed subtropics. In addition to agronomic outcomes, this review critically examines the economic aspects associated with the use of herbicides mixtures. Cost-benefit analyses, return on investment, and considerations of long-term sustainability are explored to provide a comprehensive understanding of the profitability implications for farmers engaged in rainfed wheat cultivation. The synthesis of this information aims to guide future research directions, inform agricultural practices, and aid policymakers in formulating sustainable strategies for weed management in rainfed subtropical wheat cultivation. By consolidating the current state of knowledge, this review contributes to the development of evidence-based recommendations for optimizing productivity and profitability while ensuring environmental stewardship in rainfed subtropical wheat production systems.
Soil Dynamics for Carbon Buildup in Different Land Use Systems in the South Region of Gujarat, India
Authors: Bhalawe S. , Nayak D. , Lodhi A. S. , Thakur R. K. , Rai S. K. , Shrivastava A.
Published: January 2024

Soil dynamics for carbon build-up vary across different land use systems. Understanding the soil dynamics and land use system management practices that contribute to carbon build-up is essential for designing effective carbon sequestration strategies. In a recent study, fifteen different land use systems were examined, including agriculture land-use systems, tree plantation land-use systems, and agroforestry land-use systems. The study assessed the potential of these land use systems to store carbon based on the extent of tree components. Various physical and chemical characteristics of the soil and their impact on soil carbon conservation were also investigated. The results showed that as the number of tree components increased, the soil pH and bulk density decreased from 6.10 to 5.55, and 1.48 to 1.33g/cm3. The available soil nitrogen was significantly higher in tree plantation land-use systems than in agriculture land use systems while soil moisture was higher in the latter. Tree components increase soil carbon build-up and agroforestry land use systems fulfill the requirement for human and environmental balance.
Crimes contra as Indicações Geográficas: análise dos aspectos legais da tutela penal das Indicações Geográficas no Brasil
Authors: Souza Alessandro Vitor de , Aveni Alessandro , Souza Érika Aparecida de Moura e , Mayrink Flávia Diniz
Published: January 2024

Reconhecendo seu status de bem jurídico relevante, o ordenamento jurídico brasileiro invoca o direito penal para servir de instrumento para a tutela da Indicação Geográfica. Mas, considerando-se os termos vigentes da Lei n. 9.279/1996, surge o seguinte questionamento: a legislação brasileira, sob a perspectiva penal, é efetiva para a tutela das Indicações Geográficas? Nesse sentido, o objetivo geral do presente estudo foi promover uma análise crítica da legislação brasileira sob a perspectiva penal. Para isso, adotou-se uma abordagem qualitativa, exploratória, por meio de revisão bibliográfica. Verificou-se que, quanto à tutela penal, a Indicação Geográfica ainda goza de pouco prestígio junto ao legislador pátrio, tendo as menores penas entre os demais institutos da propriedade intelectual. Concluiu-se que, quando se espera alguma efetividade quanto à tutela penal das Indicações Geográficas no Brasil, necessita-se de uma reforma urgente na Lei de Propriedade Industrial.
Panorama sobre Métricas e Parâmetros do Empreendedorismo, sua Evolução e Mapeamento Patentário – RSL
Authors: Ramos Polyanna Telles , Quintella Cristina M.
Published: January 2024

Empreender é a busca constante pela implementação de negócios, que satisfaçam as necessidades da população. O mundo, as pessoas e os negócios vêm se transformando constantemente e, por isso, este estudo objetiva apresentar uma revisão sistemática da literatura sobre as métricas e parâmentros do empreendedorismo, sua evolução e mapeamento patentário. Foram obtidos 2.283 artigos por meio do sistema scopus, usando o biblioshiny para tratamento desses dados, identificando 4.007 palavras-chave, sendo as principais empreendedor, capital humano, inovação e sustentabilidade. A prospecção tecnólogica de patentes foi realizada na base worldwide da Espacenet, por meio do Orbit, verificando 799 famílias. Observou-se migração do tema em economia para sustentabilidade e inovação e, apesar de educação ter baixa pesquisa, é fator importante para o futuro do empreendedorismo. Sobre patentes, houve um aumento de depósito nos últimos anos, principalmente na área de tecnologia da informação e mesmo com intensa pesquisa por sustentabilidade não foram encontradas patentes nessa área.
A Marmelada de Santa Luzia como Indicação Geográfica: contribuições e potenciais empecilhos na produção de marmelo em comunidade quilombola da região goiana
Authors: Jorcelino Tallyrand Moreira , Lire Francisco Fabio Almeida de , Gomes André Rogério Silva , Aveni Alessandro
Published: January 2024

A produção de marmelo traz ganhos sociais, ambientais e econômicos, o que favorece a geração de renda para povos e comunidades tradicionais e para o setor produtivo do marmelo e marmelada. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a notoriedade e a possibilidade de a Indicação Geográfica ser utilizada com a finalidade de proteger e de fomentar o produto Marmelada Santa Luzia, patrimônio cultural imaterial de municípios goianos Cidade Ocidental e Luziânia; e refletir sobre potenciais empecilhos, seja na produção de marmelo ou em registro da Indicação Geográfica para o produto Marmelada. Para tanto, foi utilizada a metodologia estudo de caso. Nesse sentido, o trabalho faz uma breve síntese da produção de marmelo no Brasil, identifica a comunidade a ser beneficiada e aponta a rede de apoio municipal, estadual e federal, bem como instituições privadas que podem assessorá-la com o pedido junto ao Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial.
Direitos Autorais nas Mídias Sociais no Âmbito da Publicidade e Propaganda
Authors: Lima Maíne de Souza , Silveira Carina Santos , Azevedo Joyce Batista
Published: January 2024

Por meio de uma pesquisa exploratória, pretende-se neste artigo trazer conteúdos que possam balizar discussões sobre direitos autorais nas mídias sociais relacionadas à publicidade e propaganda. É fato que as mídias e redes sociais promoveram um encurtamento de distâncias e compartilhamento de informações de maneira instantânea. Os profissionais da publicidade e propaganda viram nesses meios uma ferramenta eficaz para o marketing de produtos e serviços. Entretanto, como em tudo que resulte em produção intelectual, deve-se atender aos preceitos determinados pelo direito autoral. O mesmo ocorre com a publicidade e propaganda realizada nas mídias e redes sociais. Diante desse cenário, questiona-se como funciona a relação do direito autoral com a publicidade e propaganda e a sua consequente aplicação quando a ferramenta utilizada é a mídia social. Sendo assim, pretende-se contextualizar essa relação, utilizando-se a bibliografia referente ao tema.
A Lei da Inovação e o Decreto do Marco Regulatório da Inovação: uma análise da jurisprudência do TCU com base em dados proprietária orientada a programação em linguagem natural
Authors: Quintella Guilherme da Mata , Hanna Samira Abdallah
Published: January 2024

Este artigo analisa a jurisprudência do Tribunal de Contas da União (TCU) sobre a Lei da Inovação (Lei n. 10.973/2004) e o Decreto do Marco Regulatório da Inovação (Decreto n. 9.283/2018), utilizando uma base de dados proprietária do autor, que contém os acórdãos pertinentes a essa temática, adaptados para Programação em Linguagem Natural (PLN). O autor extraiu dados sobre o processo decisório do TCU, as questões jurídicas envolvidas, a distribuição temporal dos acórdãos e os artigos mais citados e problematizados da Lei da Inovação e do Decreto do Marco Regulatório. O autor concluiu que a base de dados proprietária permitiu alcançar um resultado mais preciso do que a base de dados originária do TCU, e que o Decreto do Marco Regulatório vem atendendo, por meio do controle externo, à sua finalidade de resolver as obscuridades e os pontos falhos da Lei da Inovação.
Propriedade Intelectual do IFPA Câmpus Altamira: análise documental, percepção de servidores e prospecção tecnológica
Authors: Castro Laísa Maria de Resende , Morais Williams Raphael de Souza
Published: January 2024

A criação dos Institutos Federais impulsionou a inovação e incentivou as potencialidades regionais do Brasil. Assim, surge o IFPA Câmpus Altamira com a missão de gerar Propriedade Intelectual (PI) e promover inovação na região. Nesse sentido, com o propósito de avaliar o estágio de maturidade institucional do Câmpus Altamira, quatro anos após a promulgação da Política de Inovação, a pesquisa analisou documentos e realizou prospecção tecnológica no INPI. Além disso, foi aplicado um questionário aos servidores, revelando um estágio inicial de desenvolvimento institucional em relação à PI e à inovação. A maioria dos servidores não estava envolvida em pesquisa com potencial inovador e possuía pouco conhecimento sobre o tema, refletido na ausência de registros patente, software e desenho industrial no INPI. Contudo, observou-se que os temas de PI e inovação estavam presentes nos currículos analisados. Assim, faz-se necessária a inserção de ações coordenadas e estratégicas para impulsionar a cultura da inovação.
Prospecção Tecnológica do Tecnossolo Ancestral Desenvolvido a partir da Terra Preta Arqueológica
Authors: Ribeiro Elaine Nathalie Melo Negrão , Moraes Milena Carvalho de , Carvalho Amílcar Mendes
Published: January 2024

O Tecnossolo Ancestral (TA) é uma tecnologia em desenvolvimento pelo Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi (MPEG) e consiste na incorporação de resíduos orgânicos a uma matriz de solo, promovendo a criação de um substrato tecnológico com aplicação em diversas escalas produtivas da agricultura, cuja base arqueológica (conhecimento ancestral), bem como origem amazônica, garantem um grau de excentricidade. O objetivo do trabalho foi realizar a análise prospectiva da tecnologia “Processo de produção de Tecnossolo a partir da adição de rejeitos orgânicos e produto resultante”, a partir da busca de anterioridade, compará-la com as tecnologias existentes no mercado e, por fim, apresentar sua inovação e qualificação tecnológica, bem como potencialidade mercadológica. A busca de anterioridade foi realizada em diversas bases, e o panorama extraído aponta para excelentes perspectivas de concessão da solicitação do registro de patente, assim como o diferencial tecnológico e a aderência ao mercado, com possibilidade de transferência para o mercado.
Editorial
Authors: Leite Handerson Jorge Dourado
Published: January 2024

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ANÁLISE DA ESTRATÉGIA DE RESILIÊNCIA DE PORTO ALEGRE: VINCULAÇÃO ENTRE AÇÕES, CHOQUES E ESTRESSES
Authors: Silva Ângela Marcia de Andrade , Santos Silva Tássio , Corbacho Durães Isadora , Cardoso Ventura Andréa , Silveira Andrade José Célio
Published: January 2024

Este trabalho objetivou analisar a vinculação entre as 66 ações propostas na Estratégia de Resiliência de Porto Alegre e os 3 choques e/ou 9 estresses identificados na cidade. Essa vinculação foi feita por meio da análise de conteúdo do documento Estratégia de Resiliência de Porto Alegre e da técnica de painel de especialistas. Constatou-se que, em Porto Alegre, um pouco menos da metade (42,4 %) das ações estratégicas em prol da resiliência urbana está voltada para os setores social e de planejamento urbano. Do total de 66 ações propostas pela estratégia, 34,8 % vinculam-se ao choque “inundações/alagamentos/deslizamentos”, 39,3 % a “quedas de árvores” e 12,1 % a “incêndios”. Foi verificado que 5 dos 9 estresses apresentavam baixo percentual de ações vinculadas: “deficiência dos serviços de saúde” (4,5 %); “obsolescência da infraestrutura de drenagem” (6 %); “precariedade do saneamento básico” (6 %); “descarte irregular de resíduos” (9 %) e “ineficiência dos sistemas de segurança pública” (9 %). Já os 4 estresses com maiores percentuais de ações vinculadas são “desigualdade social”, “falta de atratividade das instituições de ensino”, “insuficiência da integração dos processos de planejamento urbano” e “deficiência da regularização fundiária”, com 60,6 %, 39,3%, 24,2 % e 15,1 %, respectivamente. Foi detectado, também, que todas as 66 ações propostas se vinculavam a pelo menos um choque ou um estresse e apenas 7 ações apresentavam vínculos com mais de um choque e/ou estresse simultaneamente. Notou-se que a estratégia de resiliência de Porto Alegre poderia ter se consolidado como um importante instrumento de planejamento urbano, para que os riscos associados aos choques e estresses, principalmente para as populações mais vulneráveis, pudessem ter sido mitigados. Entretanto, essa política pública local teve a sua implementação comprometida por descontinuidades políticas, e não alcançou o objetivo de tornar, até março de 2022, a capital dos Gaúchos uma referência em resiliência urbana na América Latina.
BALANÇO HÍDRICO DA BACIA HIDROGRÁFICA DO RIO CORRENTINA NO OESTE DA BAHIA
Authors: Marques Alan de Jesus , Oliveira Gabriele Brito de , Nascimento Natália da Glória França , Guedes Sayonara de Souza , Amaral Luís Gustavo Henrique do
Published: January 2024

A bacia hidrográfica do Rio Correntina é uma sub-bacia hidrográfica da bacia do Rio Corrente, localizada na região extremo oeste da Bahia, sendo considerada de grande importância econômica e turística. O rio Correntina é o principal curso d’água da região, tendo sua nascente próxima à divisa dos estados da Bahia e de Goiás. Este estudo teve como objetivo realizar o balanço hídrico da bacia do Rio Correntina e identificar informações hidrológicas relevantes para estabelecer limites na exploração dos recursos hídricos. Os dados hidrológicos foram obtidos a partir do acervo do Banco de Dados da Rede Hidrometeorológica Nacional, selecionando-se estações localizadas nas proximidades ou diretamente na área da bacia do rio Correntina. O período de análise abrangeu o intervalo de 01/01/1980 a 31/12/2020, sendo definido o ano hidrológico a partir da análise dos dados de precipitação e de vazão. A precipitação média na bacia foi obtida por meio do método dos polígonos de Thiessen, com apoio do software QGIS versão 3.22.14. No período compreendido entre os anos hidrológicos de 1980/81 a 2019/20, não foi observada tendência de redução nos totais precipitados na bacia do rio Correntina. No entanto, nesse mesmo período, houve redução da conversão de precipitação em escoamento na bacia, com diminuição de aproximadamente 35% nas vazões médias mensais no decorrer dos 40 anos avaliados. Os resultados obtidos estão em consonância com outros estudos realizados na bacia do rio Corrente, e apontam para uma redução na disponibilidade hídrica na bacia, possivelmente associada à expansão agrícola e às decorrentes alterações no uso e ocupação do solo.
DIREITO À PROPRIEDADE VERSUS DIREITO DE VIZINHANÇA
Authors: Machado Borba Laila , Verdival Rafael
Published: January 2024

O presente estudo analisa a possibilidade de exclusão do condômino considerado antissocial, em razão de reiterado comportamento anormal e abusivo, com ênfase nas limitações impostas pelo direito de propriedade, em prol do direito de vizinhança. A temática proposta é relevante, pois existe uma lacuna legislativa no que tange ao reconhecimento da exclusão do condômino antissocial, levando a divergências de entendimentos doutrinários e jurisprudenciais no caso concreto. A presente pesquisa utilizou o método hipotético-dedutivo, com abordagem qualitativa, valendo de levantamento e revisão bibliográfica de artigos científicos, obras monográficas, jurisprudência e legislação. Concluiu-se que é possível a exclusão do condômino antissocial, como última alternativa, desde que isso não signifique a perda da propriedade, mas apenas a expulsão da moradia
LEI MARI FERRER
Authors: Covalchuk Gabriela Cristina , Pinto Vieira Lara Bianca , Moritz Alfonzo Natália
Published: January 2024

O presente artigo busca explicar o contexto da promulgação da Lei 14.245, conhecida como Lei Mariana Ferrer, que protege vítima de crimes sexuais em audiências. A Lei foi sancionada em novembro de 2021 em decorrência de um julgamento de crime de estupro, em que, não somente, não condenou o réu como resultou em uma sequência de agressões que humilharam a vítima durante todas as fases processuais, principalmente na audiência, sendo a vítima Mariana Ferrer intimidada e culpabilizada pelo estupro ocorrido. Tais atitudes foram praticadas pelo advogado do réu, pelo membro do Ministério Público e pelo Juiz de Direito, os quais tinham o dever de proteger a vítima e não de fazer com que o processo trouxesse ainda mais dor a ela. O artigo faz uma análise sobre a relação entre gênero e raça e como a imagem do réu influenciou no resultado do processo. Além disso, o artigo tem a finalidade de demonstrar que a proteção da vítima em audiência não cerceia o direito do réu a ampla mas tem o intuito de proteger a vítima de nova violência.
“ZONA DE PERIGO”
Authors: Quadros Carla de
Published: January 2024

O artigo, em epígrafe, assume caráter revisional temático e objetiva, em sua análise, apresentar duas formas principais de violências contra as mulheres: a doméstica e a simbólica, possibilitando reflexões sobre aspectos do patriarcado e do sexismo e como eles se desdobram no entrecruzamento da manutenção permanente das violências de gênero e em suas diferentes manifestações. Para esse recorte analítico, utilizamos a exploração de dados do Anuário de Segurança Pública e de outros institutos, estabelecendo diálogo com autoras(es), bem como reflexões mediante falas do cotidiano e uma composição musical que serviu como mote reflexivo, intentando exemplificar a ressignificação das violências a partir das construções simbólicas que operam no contexto social e perpetuam modelos e comportamentos para a mulher. Compreendemos que a nossa proposta analítica/reflexiva se justifica tendo em vista os reconhecimentos de práticas feministas analíticas pautadas numa epistemologia da vida diária (parte de exemplos retirados do cotidiano), objetivando preparar mulheres para mapeamentos das violências, principalmente a simbólica, que contribui decisivamente para a manutenção de uma sociedade excludente, misógina e opressora, principalmente em virtude de equipamentos culturais seculares/patriarcais que minam e reduzem os direitos das mulheres. No presente estudo, estabeleceu-se um diálogo introdutório a partir das discussões feitas no transcorrer do minicurso, mediante notícias de violências veiculadas nas mídias e que refletem as estatísticas brasileiras, no que se refere às mais variadas formas de violências contra a mulher. A partir dai, construímos reflexões pertinentes e que nos asseguram sobre os dispositivos patriarcais que mantém essa estrutura de violência contra nós.
LAWFARE E A VIOLÊNCIA CONTRA A MULHER NO JUDICIÁRIO BRASILEIRO
Authors: Moura Amanda
Published: January 2024

O presente artigo científico objetivou compreender a aplicação do termo Lawfare em processos judiciais contra mulheres. Este termo é conhecido como a guerra jurídica, o qual utiliza-se do judiciário para impor, através de uma litigância abusiva, resultados ilegítimos, exigindo recursos e tempo das mulheres, reforçando, consequentemente, a violência de gênero estrutural. O Lawfare está presente nos mais diversos processos sejam eles da esfera criminal, cível e familista, no Brasil ou em outros continentes. Concluímos nesse estudo, que o fenômeno Lawfare está intrinsecamente ligado ao sistema patriarcal que sustenta o Direito e as violências de gênero, sendo entendido como uma violência processual. Verifica-se a necessidade de uma maior atuação do Sistema de Justiça, bem como a obrigatoriedade do julgamento sob perspectiva de gênero, de acordo a Resolução n.492 do Conselho Nacional de Justiça, com o objetivo de afastar o Lawfare que converte mulheres vítimas de violência de gênero em rés em litigâncias ilegítimas. A metodologia utilizada conta com pesquisa bibliográfica de teses e artigos científicos sobre o tema e a análise dos casos de Lawfare presentes na mídia e demandas judiciais entre os anos de 2020 a 2023, com respaldo na teoria da violência de gênero contra a mulher.
Third‐order nonlinear optical properties of polyureas and polyimide synthesized by microwave irradiation
Authors: Lu Jian‐Mei , Ji Shun‐Jun , Chen Nai‐Yong , Sun Zhen‐Rong , Zhu Xiu‐Lin , Shi Wei‐Ping , Wang Zu‐Geng
Published: June 2003

Polymerization of benzoguanamine (BGA) and 2,4‐tolylenediisocyanate (TDI), BGA–TDI polycondensation polyurea (PU), and pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) in solid phase under microwave radiation was studied. In the system of TDI and BGA, the effect of microwave radiation time, the composition and concentration of monomer, the temperature, and the concentration of catalyst on the third‐order optical nonlinearities of polymer were discussed. In the system of PU and PMDA, the effect of imidization degree on third‐order optical nonlinearities was also discussed. The results showed that the prepared polymer had high third‐order nonlinear optical coefficients (PU: χ(3) = 1.174 × 10−13 esu) and fast time responses (24 ps); simultaneously, the third‐order optical nonlinearities of polymer were improved greatly by microwave radiation. The results also showed that third‐order optical nonlinearities were affected not only by the length of the polycondensate chain but also by the molecular structure, which was explained and confirmed by the computation of the AM1 semiempirical method and UV‐visible absorption spectrum. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 2611–2617, 2003
Influence of fiber volume fraction and aspect ratio in resol–sisal composites
Authors: Zárate C. N. , Aranguren M. I. , Reboredo M. M.
Published: June 2003

Vegetable fibers are being used as reinforcements in polymeric matrices with a wide variety of applications. Among these fibers, sisal is of particular interest due to the high impact strength and moderate tensile and flexural properties of its derivated composites. Because of its low cost and affinity, a phenol–formaldehyde resin, resol, has been selected as the matrix to obtain resol–sisal composites. The influence of fiber length and volume fraction on flexural properties has been studied. An optimum for the fiber length as well as for the fiber volume fraction was found. The improvement of the properties occurred up to a length of about 23 mm. The use of longer fibers lead to reduced properties because they tended to curl and bend during processing. Besides, actual composite densities were lower than theoretical ones mainly due to the presence of voids. This undesirable porosity produced a reduction in flexural properties at high fiber contents. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 2714–2722, 2003
Control of structure and tack properties of acrylic pressure‐sensitive adhesives designed by a polymerization process
Authors: Aymonier A. , Leclercq D. , Tordjeman P. , Papon E. , Villenave J‐J.
Published: June 2003

Free radical emulsion polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and 2‐ethylhexyl acrylate (EHA) results in the synthesis of pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSAs) with good tack properties. Management of both the copolymer composition and the polymerization process allows one to control the behavior of the PSA. Semicontinuous (SC) processes create polymer particles whose instantaneous composition is close to that of the feed particle The SC Mixture process (continuous feeding with comonomer blends) affords nearly homogeneous latex particles and PSA films. The SC Gradient process (separate feedings at inversely varying rates) affords heterogeneous particles and films. The Batch process leads to somewhat heterogeneous films, but the hard (MMA‐rich) microdomains are made compatible with their soft (EHA‐rich) matrix because of the assumed formation of tapered‐type copolymers. Tack measurements indicate the importance of the particle and film structures. Too much hardness or softness leads to unacceptable lacks of adhesion and cohesion, respectively. Homogeneous structures prove adequate, but their tack properties collapse with rising temperature. Heterogeneous structures, with extensive phase segregation, prove unsatisfactory because they lack adhesion and cohesion. Finally, the association of well‐balanced composition and compatible heterogeneity is the criterion for suitable PSA behavior. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 2749–2756, 2003
Multicarrier spread spectrum techniques for downstream power‐line communications on low voltage grid
Authors: Fantacci Romano , Morosi Simone
Published: June 2003

In this paper different spread spectrum systems are proposed for broadband downstream power‐line communications (PLCs). Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) technique permits to greatly enhance the system throughput but can be strongly damaged by ‘hidden nodes’ situations. The introduction of suitable hybrid schemes, such as MT‐CDMA, allows to efficiently face this inconvenience by increasing system robustness.

The performance of the systems considered is expressed in terms of bit error rate (BER), derived by simulations under the assumptions of frequency‐selective multipath fading channel and additive coloured gaussian noise according to the in‐building networks model, under the same overall working conditions of bandwidth occupation, transmitted power and global data rate. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recession rates of waterfalls in Boso Peninsula, Japan, and a predictive equation
Authors: Hayakawa Yuichi , Matsukura Yukinori
Published: June 2003

Rates of waterfall recession, and major factors that influence the rate, were studied using waterfalls in Boso Peninsula, Japan. The mean rate of waterfall recession was estimated by determining the age and original location. The principal factor in determining the rate of waterfall recession is the ratio of the erosive force of stream to the bedrock resistance. This is expressed in terms of measurable variables, which include the discharge (drainage area and precipitation), the width and height of the waterfall, and the unconfined compressive strength of the bedrock. An empirical equation connecting the force/resistance ratios and the rates of waterfall recession is derived. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of surface tension and depolarization field on ferroelectric nanomaterial properties
Authors: Glinchuk M. D. , Morozovskaya A. N.
Published: June 2003

The theory of size effects in nanocrystalline ferroelectric ceramics or nanoparticle powders allowing for surface tension and depolarization field is proposed. Surface tension was included in the free energy functional and extrapolation length was expressed via surface tension coefficient. The latter was shown to be dependent on temperature due to its relation to the dielectric permittivity of the nanoparticles. The depolarization field effect was calculated in the model taking into account the space‐charge layer on the surface.

The Euler–Lagrange equation for inhomogeneous polarization was solved analytically in both paraelectric and ferroelectric phases. The temperature and size dependence of the spontaneous polarization and dielectric susceptibility of nanomaterials was obtained. The possibility to calculate these and other properties by minimization of the conventional free energy in the form of different power polarization series, but with coefficients that depend on particle size, temperature, contribution of depolarization field and surface tension coefficient, was demonstrated. A comparison with available experimental data is performed.
Temperature dependence of optical activity and circular dichroism in α‐ZnP2 crystals
Authors: Kushnir O. S. , Bevz O. A. , Polovinko I. I. , Sveleba S. A.
Published: June 2003

The circular birefringence related to the gyration components along and perpendicular to the optical axis and the circular dichroism of tetragonal α‐ZnP2 single crystals are determined in the temperature range 290–450 K, using universal null‐polarimetric techniques. The oscillatory temperature behaviour of the optical rotatory power and the ellipticity of light passed through the crystal in the (001) direction is quantitatively well explained by the influence of multiple reflections of light. The observed thermal hysteresis and dependence of the gyration on sample prehistory testify indirectly the availability of incommensurately modulated structure in α‐ZnP2.
Comparison of the replicability of routinely used centric relation registration techniques
Authors: Keshvad Alireza , Winstanley Raymond B.
Published: June 2003

Purpose This study was conducted to determine statistically the most repeatable mandibular position of 3 centric relation methods.

Materials and Methods Three centric relation recording methods commonly reported in the literature were selected: bimanual mandibular manipulation with a jig, chin point guidance with a jig, and Gothic arch tracing. Fourteen healthy adult volunteers (7 males and 7 females), with an average age of 26.61 ± 4.20 years and no history of extractions, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or orthodontic treatment, were selected for the study. Accurate casts were mounted on an articulator (Denar D4A) by means of a facebow and maximum intercuspation silicone registration record. A mechanical 3‐dimensional mandibular position indicator was constructed and mounted on the articulator enabling the operator to analyze the mandibular positions in 3 spatial axes (x, anteroposterior; y, superoinferior; z, mediolateral shift). Each centric relation method was recorded four times on each subject (at baseline, 1 hour, 1 day, and 1 week at approximately the same time of day). Records were transferred to the articulator, and data were extracted using a stereomicroscope modified to accept the mandibular position indicator.

Results Variability within subjects ranged from 0.03 mm (left‐side z axis for the bimanual method) to 1.6 mm (left‐side y axis for the Gothic arch method). To indicate the least variable (most repeatable) method a comparison was made using the F test. The bimanual method was the most consistent, showing between 10.11 (p= 1) and 0.438 (p= 0.005) times less variation than the Gothic arch method (the least consistent). The repeatability of the chin point guidance method was somewhere between the other 2 methods.

Conclusions The results of this study showed that of the 3 centric relation methods evaluated, the bimanual manipulation method positioned the condyles in the temporomandibular joint with a more consistent repeatability than the other 2 methods, whereas the Gothic arch was the least consistent method.
Effect of cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibition on human Helicobacter pylori gastritis: mechanisms underlying gastrointestinal safety and implications for cancer chemoprevention
Authors: Scheiman J. M. , Greenson J. K. , Lee J. , Cryer B.
Published: June 2003

Cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 expression and prostaglandin production is increased by Helicobacter pylori infection. Non‐selective COX inhibitors reduce prostaglandins and mucosal proliferation in infected mucosa and may reduce gastric cancer risk, but ulceration precludes their use. COX‐2 inhibitors cause fewer ulcers and may be chemopreventive. Physiological studies of COX‐2 inhibitors in humans with H. pylori infection have not been performed.

Aim:  To study the impact of COX‐2 specific inhibition on gastric prostaglandin levels, H. pylori gastritis and proliferation.

Methods: Twenty infected (eight males, 12 females; age 38 ± 1.8) and six uninfected (four males, two females; age 36 ± 3.5) healthy volunteers received rofecoxib 25 mg daily for 14 days. Endoscopic biopsies were evaluated for prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) content, gastritis and proliferation.

Results: Before drug therapy, compared to uninfected, H. pylori‐infected subjects had significantly higher: (a) gastric mucosal PGE2 (pg/mg tissue) in the gastric body and antrum, (b) H. pylori score in body and antrum and (c) mid‐gland proliferation index in antrum and body. The COX‐2 inhibitor did not significantly affect PGE2 levels, gastritis scores or proliferation indices in the body or antrum in the H. pylori‐positive or ‐negative subjects.

Conclusion: The predominant source of increased gastric PGE2 in H. pylori infection appears to be COX‐1‐derived. In non‐ulcerated H. pylori gastritis, COX‐2 inhibition does not affect cellular proliferation. Rofecoxib's lack of effect on gastric prostaglandin levels and proliferation in H. pylori‐infected mucosa may explain the absence of an increased ulcer risk among COX‐2 inhibitor users with H. pylori infection. The lack of significant effect on intermediate biomarkers raises uncertainty regarding the potential of specific COX‐2 inhibitors for chemoprevention of gastric cancer.
Hospital use of acid‐suppressive medications and its fall‐out on prescribing in general practice: a 1‐month survey
Authors: Parente F. , Cucino C. , Gallus S. , Bargiggia S. , Greco S. , Pastore L. , Bianchi Porro G.
Published: June 2003

Background: Acid‐suppressive medications are commonly used in hospitalized patients, but, to date, little is known about the overall use of these drugs in the hospital setting.

Aim: To evaluate the appropriateness of acid‐suppressive therapy in a large teaching hospital in northern Italy, and the fall‐out of hospital prescription in general practice.

Methods: The use of antisecretory agents was monitored for 1 month in adult patients consecutively admitted to L. Sacco University Hospital by reviewing their clinical charts. The appropriateness of each prescription was reviewed jointly by two consultant gastroenterologists.

Results: A total of 46.8% of 799 hospitalized patients received acid‐suppressive therapy. Ranitidine was the most frequently used drug (44.4%), followed by pantoprazole (31.8%) and omeprazole (23.0%). Stress ulcer prophylaxis and the prevention of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐induced ulcer accounted for 60.4% of the indications for use. Overall, 68% of prescriptions were not appropriate as determined by consensus review; 56.4% of patients receiving unnecessary prophylactic treatment whilst in hospital were discharged on therapy, and 46% were still receiving the treatment 3 months later.

Conclusions: Acid‐suppressive agents are over‐used in hospitalized patients. Most of the inappropriate hospital prescriptions are for ulcer prophylaxis in low‐risk patients. This unnecessary use may also induce inappropriate drug consumption in general practice.
Trends in the prevalence of Chagas’ disease among first‐time blood donors in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Sabino Ester C. , Gonçalez Thelma T. , Salles Nanci A. , Silva Guilherme R. , Chamone Dalton F.
Published: June 2003

BACKGROUND: Screening of blood donors for Chagas’ disease is mandatory in Brazil. Data about the prevalence of Chagas’ disease among first‐time blood donors has not been previously reported. The objective of this study was to report the trends in the prevalence of Chagas’ disease among first‐time blood donors in São Paulo, Brazil according to gender, age, and type of donation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The data was obtained at Fundação Pró‐Sangue/Hemocentro de São Paulo during the period of 1996 to 2001. Samples were considered positive if they were reactive to the three serologic tests used at screening (indirect immunofluorescence, indirect hemagglutination, and EIA).

RESULTS: The prevalence of Chagas’ disease was two times higher among replacement blood donors than among altruistic donors (52 vs. 25 cases/10,000). The overall prevalence among blood donors decreased at a rate of 1.86 cases per 10,000 per year. An increase in the proportion of altruistic donors and a decrease in the prevalence primarily among younger donors were observed.

CONCLUSION: The prevalence of Chagas’ disease is decreasing in the São Paulo population. Differences in the socioeconomic level between altruistic and replacement donors may be the reason for the differences in the prevalence among these groups. It will be important to target for study the population of young seroreactive blood donors to better understand how new infections are occurring.
Improved grouping scheme and meshing strategies for the fast multipole method
Authors: Buchau André , Hafla Wolfgang , Groh Friedemann , Rucker Wolfgang M.
Published: June 2003

If the fast multipole method (FMM) is applied in the context of the boundary element method, the efficiency and accuracy of the FMM is significantly influenced by the used hierarchical grouping scheme. Hence, in this paper, a new approach to the grouping scheme is presented to solve numerical examples with problem‐oriented meshes and higher order elements accurately and efficiently. Furthermore, with the proposed meshing strategies the efficiency of the FMM can be additionally controlled.
Comparison of radial basis function approximation techniques
Authors: Coulomb Jean‐Louis , Kobetski Avenir , Caldora Costa Mauricio , Mare´chal Yves , Jo¨nsson Ulf
Published: June 2003

This paper compares three different radial basis function neural networks, as well as the diffuse element method, according to their ability of approximation. This is very useful for the optimization of electromagnetic devices. Tests are done on several analytical functions and on the TEAM workshop problem 25.
Approximate prediction of losses in transformer plates
Authors: Pávo´ József , Sebestyén Imre , Gyimóthy Szabolcs , Bíró Oszkár
Published: June 2003

Three methods are presented for the approximate prediction of losses in laminated transformer cores. The input data of the calculations are the field distribution obtained by a FEM code assuming the laminated core as a homogeneous medium that conductivity is zero in the direction perpendicular to the lamination. These data are processed by the developed methods to obtain an agreeable approximation of the power losses in the transformer plate. For each approach the same benchmark problem is solved to exploit the properties of the approaches. The goal of the presented study is to select the most suitable method that can be used as a postprocessor of a FEM code.
Numerical analysis of fast switching electromagnetic valves
Authors: Ertl M. , Kaltenbacher M. , Mock R. , Lerch R.
Published: June 2003

This paper presents a 2D nonlinear magnetomechanical analysis of an electromagnetic actuator based on finite elements. An impact mechanical problem with its inherent convergence problems has to be solved inside the magnetic field region. Beside material and geometric nonlinearities also dynamic effects like eddy currents are considered.
Optical Waveguide Evanescent-Field Amplifiers
Authors: Ter-Mikirtychev Valerii V. , Kozlov Valery A. , Tsuboi Taiju
Published: June 2003

We briefly describe the recent development of the optical evanescent-field amplifiers including the solid-state integrated-optic and fiber-optic devices. Application of these amplifiers to the optical communication systems is discussed.
Quantum Corrections to Boltzmann Conductivity in (Cu,Ni)–Zr–Al Amorphous Alloys
Authors: Nath T. K. , Majumdar A. K.
Published: June 2003

Very high-resolution electrical resistivity data have been presented for Zr-rich ( Cu 0.36 Zr 0.64)1-x Al x and ( Ni 0.5 Zr 0.5)1-x Al x(0≤x≤0.2) non-magnetic transition-metal-based amorphous metallic glasses in the temperature range of 1.2–300 K. All the alloys are found to fall into the strong–scattering regime (ρ300>165μΩ· cm ) with negative temperature coefficient of resistance even till 300 K. With the addition of Al in both the systems, the value ρ300 increases because of the enhancement of the degree of disorder. In the low-temperature range, they show a tendency towards superconductivity with trasition temperature Tc<4.2 K and large superconducting fluctuations. They are found to be extreme type-II dirty BCS superconductors. A quantitative analysis of the electrical resistivity, based on the electron–electron interaction and localization effects, is reported here in the temperature range, Tc<T<300 K. We find, in each specimen, three distinct regions, hitherto only theoretically predicted where the conductivity varies in a sequence of [Formula: see text], T and [Formula: see text] at low, intermediate and high temperatures, respectively. The only earlier similar observation was made in a ferromagnetic system where the interpretation in terms of quantum interference effects will always remain controversial. A number of parameters, namely, the coefficient of the [Formula: see text] term at low temperatures, diffusion constant, density of states at the Fermi level, inelastic mean free path and relaxation time, estimated from this quantum correction analysis, are in excellent agreement with those from earlier experiments on other amorphous systems.
AC Magnetic Response of an Ni81Mn19 Alloy
Authors: Gencer A. , Ercan I.
Published: June 2003

Low field magnetic measurements of a re-entrant system Ni 81 Mn 91 as a function of temperature are shown to exhibit two successive transitions. The ac susceptibility shows strong frequency dependence due to the frustrated spins. The freezing temperature, Tf, shifts to higher temperatures with increasing frequency and decreasing ac field amplitude. Its dependence on frequency is associated with the viscuous relaxation of spins during an ac cycle of the measuring field, which can be attributed to the magnetic relaxation of spin clusters. The results support the theory that re-entrant spin glass state is coexistent with the ferromagnetic domains and that no real phase transition to a spin glass state seems to occur. The interplay of magnetic domain formation and movement with the so-called frustrated spins appears to be responsible for the observed dependences.
Landau Theory of Nematic to Smectic-A Phase Transition
Authors: Nandi B. , Saha M. , Mukherjee Prabir K.
Published: June 2003

A phenomenological Landau-like theory is presented here, which describes the nematic and smectic-A phase. The problem of the first or second order nature of the nematic to smectic-A phase transition is explored and the stability of the different phases are also calculated. On the basis of this work it is argued that the nematic to smectic-A transition is of first order nature.
On the Concept of Complexity of Random Dynamical Systems
Authors: Loreto V. , Serva M. , Vulpiani A.
Published: June 2003

We show how to introduce a characterization the "complexity" of random dynamical systems. More precisely we propose a suitable indicator of complexity in terms of the average number of bits per time unit necessary to specify the sequence generated by these systems. This indicator of complexity, which can be extracted from real experimental data, turns out to be very natural in the context of information theory. For dynamical systems with random perturbations, it coincides with the rate K of divergence of nearby trajectories evolving under two different noise realizations. In presence of strong dynamical intermittency, the value of K is very different from the standard Lyapunov exponent λσcomputed through the consideration of two nearby trajectories evolving under the same realization of the random perturbation. However, the former is much more relevant than the latter from a physical point of view as illustrated by some numerical examples of noisy and random maps.