bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Effec t of Soil Amendments and Environmental Conditions of Stevia rebaudiana in Urban Soils of Buenos Aires, Argentina
Authors: Giuffré Lidia , Giardina E , Ciarlo E , Ríos Paola , Vella Lucía
Published: July 2015

The leaves of wild Stevia plants contain several different natural glycoside compounds responsible for producing the sweet taste sensation. It is used as a sweetener, and has some important properties as regulation of sugar level in blood, and other medical issues. The objective of this work is to study the effects of different soil amendments and the location of the culture, inside or outside a greenhouse, on Stevia rebaudiana growth and final dry weight, at an urban soil. A complete randomized design with 4 replications was used. The effect of two factors on Stevia growth were evaluated: the application with organic amendments and the location, at field and at greenhouse conditions. Amendments treatments were control, liquid vermicompost, compost and vermicompost. The height and diameter of Stevia plants were measured at T2 (vegetative state) and T3 (flowering, ) and final plant dry weight was also weighed at T3. Inside the greenhouse Stevia plants had a higher development, measured by height and diameter growth and by final dry weight accumulation, due to higher temperatures and drip irrigation. Solid amendments, compost and vermicompost, presented higher values of the measured parameters, height, diameter and dry matter, with statistically significant differences from the control and liquid vermicompost; values of these latter treatments did not differ statistically from each other. Differences in diameter growth were more closely related to final dry weight than height growth, which suggests that diameter is a suitable variable to use as an early indicator of growth conditions. In this trial Stevia adapted to existing conditions of the urban soil, slightly acid, non saline and well supplied in organic matter, and completed its cycle properly, with good potential as an organic grown crop.
Alternatives to Flue Cured V irginia Tobacco Cultivation: Preliminary Observations from a Tobacco Growing Region In India
Authors: Nayak Nayanatara
Published: July 2015

Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco also known as cigarette tobacco is a commercial crop grown in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Orissa and Maharashtra states in India. Tobacco is considered a de-merit good because of its adverse effects on the health of the consumers and there is growing concern to replace tobacco with suitable alternative crops and livelihoods in tobacco growing regions. The main purpose of undertaking this study is to make a situation analysis of the tobacco growing region with respect to cropping pattern, background of farmers growing different crops, their perceptions on tobacco cultivation, institutional benefits available for growing tobacco and, to identify economically viable alternate crops for FCV tobacco if any and examine the factors governing their adoption. The review of literature and this study suggest that farmers are interested or willing to shift from tobacco. But, this willingness is conditional or is responsive to fulfillment of demands. Although there are alternatives that are being tried out, they are backed by huge investment in infrastructure. Studies in Tanzania, Bangladesh and India reveal that institutional support is the main factor inducing continuation of tobacco cultivation. Based on the net returns per unit of cultivation, this study indicates the possibilities of promoting ginger, chilly, sugarcane and plantation crops as alternatives to tobacco. In the case of alternative livelihoods, we could not find any instances of other remunerative livelihoods taken up by tobacco growers and non tobacco growers on large scale from the sample covered in this study. The earnings from livestock rearing, which is one of the subsidiary occupations reported by farmers is at subsistence level and cannot be compared with earnings from tobacco cultivation. As observed from the field and noted from secondary sources, FCV tobacco crop in India is like a pampered child. Its cultivation is profitable because of the domestic and international demand and institutional support extended towards its cultivation. In this background the cultivation of other crops cannot be left to the providence of natural factors. Shifting from tobacco may be possible only if similar treatment on par with tobacco is given to selected alternative crops expected to get comparable returns.
How Seed Size and Wate r Stress Effect the Seed Germination and Seedling Growth in Wheat Varieties?
Authors: Shahi Charu , Vibhuti Vibhuti , Bargali Kiran , Bargali S
Published: July 2015

Water stress has adverse impacts on crop growth, yield and quality parameters thus, considered among serious constraints to agriculture production. Under depleting natural resources, environmental fluctuation and increased risk of epidemic outbreak, the task of sufficient wheat production has become a serious problem. In this study, effect of seed size and water stress was analyzed in three wheat varieties (PBW-154, UP-2338, and UP-2425). Three seed size classes (large, medium, small) of each wheat variety were kept under four water stress levels. It was observed that the shoot length and root length were highly sensitive to water stress and showed minimum growth at highest water stress level. The comparison of varieties, seed size classes and water stress levels showed that in terms of seedling growth variety UP-2338 was more resistant to water stress as compared to other varieties, whereas in terms of germination variety PBW-154 was more resistant. Variety UP-2425 showed maximum reduction in seed germination with increasing water stress (33.3% at -15 bar stress level). Among seed size, large sized seeds showed highest seed germination (91.9%) followed by medium (89.7%) and small (82.8%) sized seeds.
Assessment of Important Plant Disease of Major Crops (Sorghum Maize, Common bean, Coffee, Mung Bean, Cowpea) in South Omo and Segen Peoples Zone of Ethiopia
Authors: Eshte Yesuf , Mitiku Misganaw , Shiferaw Wondwesen
Published: July 2015

Production and productivity of maize, sorghum, Haricot bean Mung bean cow pea and coffee are highly threatened by different diseases in South omo and Segen peoples zone of Southern Nation Nationality Peoples Region of Ethiopia. However, the relative importance of each disease across locations has not been assessed and well profiled to sound management strategy. To determine the occurrence, distribution and the status of in the two zones , survey was carried out in three districts of South omo and Segen peoples zone i.e. South Ari and Benatsemay(South omo zone) and Konsso (Segen peoples zone), in 2013 cropping seasons. Results indicated that 70% of maize sampled plants were infected by Trichometasphaeria turcica at South Ari district of South omo zone. Whereas at Segen peoples zone the heights infected percentage was recorded 45%( Fusarium graminearum) . The current study indicated that a complex of diseases exist at different crops of the studied areas and the occurrence across districts is highly variable despite introduction and promotion of different management practices. Therefore holistic and cumulative integrated approach is required to manage the complex diseases in the surveyed areas.
Nutrient Uptake and Physico : Chemical Properties of Soil Influenced by Organic and Inorganic Packages in Rice
Authors: Pandey Dushyant , Chitale Shrikant , Thakur D
Published: July 2015

Field Study on Nutrient uptake and Physico – chemical properties of soil influenced by organic and inorganic packages in rice was carried out at Research Cum Instructional Farm IGKV., Raipur (C.G.) during kharif 2010 and 2011. The soil of experimental field was ‘Inceptisols’ (Matasi), which was low in nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus and potassium. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replication. The treatments consisted of Basmati type rice variety viz. Kasturi Comprising organic, inorganic and integrated nutrient management. Treatment T1 (50% RDF + 50% N (CDM), T2 (100% N((1/3 rd each CDM +NC+CCR) T3 (100% N (1/3 rd each CDM + NC + CCR) + Green manure in rice), T4 100% N (1/3 rd each CDM + NC + CCR) +Deep summer ploughing), T5 (50% N(CDM)+RP+PSB+Azos.), T6 (100%N(1/3 rd each CDM+NC+CCR) + Azos.+ PSB) and T7 (100% RDF).among different nutrient management practiceshigher nutrient uptake in grain and straw were observed under treatment T7(100% RDF).followed by T1 (50% RDF + 50% N (CDM) an INM treatment.whereas water uptake was exceeding in100% N applied through 1/3 rd each CDM + NC + CCR + Green manure in rice. Bulk density, pH and EC were also exceeds in T7, except T6 (100% N CDM + NC + CCR + Azos + PSB) which has higher OC.
Early intervention programmes for mental health from the NSPCC: Part 2
Authors: Sanger Camilla , Haynes Alice , Mountain Gary , Bonett-Healy Naomi
Published: July 2015

The NSPCC is dedicated to perinatal wellbeing and advocating for a preventive model of care that has the potential to improve the mental health for parents, families and communities. Here in the second of two articles, Camilla Sanger, Alice Haynes, Gary Mountain and Naomi Bonett-Healy describe two evidence-based perinatal NSPCC services facilitated by midwives.
‘What's it like being a male midwife?’
Authors: Pendleton John
Published: July 2015

After 30 years of men in the profession, John Pendleton wonders why do we still need to ask this question?
Vaginal birth after caesarean or elective caesarean—What factors influence women's decisions?
Authors: Tolmacheva Lucy
Published: July 2015

Background:

Vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) is a safe option for most women. In the UK, just over 50% of women with a previous caesarean section opt for a VBAC and repeat caesarean is one of the four main causes of the rising caesarean rate. It is therefore important to review the literature in order to explore the factors which influence women's decision-making, which may increase normal birth rates.

Method:

A literature search was conducted using Ovid Online and EBSCOhost database platforms. Primary, qualitative, peer reviewed, English language research papers were assessed according to inclusion/exclusion criteria.

Results:

Nine primary research studies were found. The findings were synthesised into five themes: personal beliefs about birth, previous birth experience, the need for control, health professionals and practical considerations.

Discussion:

The influence of women's beliefs about birth, as well as the attitudes of health professionals were identified as the main factors that influence women's decision-making with regards to VBAC. It is important for practitioners to reflect on their own way of communicating with women about VBAC to increase perceived supportiveness and women's autonomy. Further research is required to better understand the psycho-social aspects of decision-making.

Conclusion:

Knowledge of the identified themes will give health professionals an insight into the inner ‘lived’ experience of women making decisions regarding VBAC, increasing their awareness of their potential influence on a woman's final decision when planning her birth. The factors found may also be able to be applied to other areas of women's decision-making in maternity care.
Creating a culture of ‘safe normality’: Developing a new inner city alongside midwifery unit
Authors: Miah Rukeya , Adamson
Published: July 2015

Objective:

To investigate how midwives and midwifery managers were attempting to provide choice for women, through the creation of a service with a distinct culture from the obstetric unit (OU) prior to the opening of a new alongside midwifery unit (AMU).

Methods:

Fifteen purposively sampled midwives and midwifery managers from three practitioner groups: prospective birth centre midwives, obstetric unit midwives and midwifery managers involved in the AMU set-up were interviewed using semi-structured interviews.

Results:

Through the development of the AMU, staff perceive that low-risk women will be provided with a choice of ‘safe normality’ for their birthing experience. Staff are attempting to create a culture of care that is distinct from the OU while still benefiting from the perceived safety of close proximity medicalised care. This distinct culture is being created through the choice of an AMU over other alternatives; the design of the AMU and the environment created; and the selection of appropriate staff that have competence and confidence in their ability to deliver women-led care. However, there is a risk that the distinct culture of care may be in jeopardy due to the blurring of boundaries between the AMU and OU. This is partly as a result of the practical issues associated with a case mix skewed towards high-risk women in a deprived inner city context and the strong belief by OU midwives that ‘safe normality’ is already available within the OU.

Conclusions:

The AMU appeals strongly to the perceptions of midwives and midwifery managers as providing good quality midwife-led care and a safe place of birth that offers choice that will be accepted by the women they care for.
Transition to midwifery: Collaborative working between university and maternity services
Authors: Kitson-Reynolds Ellen , Ferns Pauline , Trenerry Alison
Published: July 2015

Education programmes are tasked to prepare midwives for an ever-changing role and workload related to practice, skills and professional requirements at the point of registration and beyond. This article outlines the ‘transition project's’ 10-year journey to-date and considers the implementation of a ‘passport’ that aims to enhance the final year student midwife's transition to newly qualified status by working towards post-registration competencies as they progress through their first post induction and preceptorship year. Funding and availability of NHS Trust training balanced with the support needed for the newly qualified midwife may be a concern for any budget holder, but in terms of profession attrition, this type of innovation may be cost-effective in the longer term.
Small Animal Review
Authors: Tennant Bryn
Published: July 2015

Introduction:

The risk of recurrence of calcium oxalate urolithiasis may be affected by breed and diet.
A step-by-step guide to the pregnant cat spay
Authors: Yates David , Goetz Ursula
Published: July 2015

Feline reproduction is highly efficient. Puberty, for example, may occur as early as four months, and the overwhelming majority of feline pregnancies are unplanned and/or unwanted. When an unwanted pregnancy is discovered, small animal practitioners may persuade owners to terminate the pregnancy rather than adding to a ‘surplus’ of kittens in the UK. Prepubertal neutering should be recommended as the optimal surgical method of population control in the cat.
Clinical Forum: how to manage canine epilepsy successfully?
Authors: Farquhar Robyn , Volk Holger A , Lowrie Mark , Wessmann Annette , Ortega Maria
Published: July 2015

The seizuring patient is one of the most common neurological presentations encountered in first opinion practice. Looking after a seizuring pet can be scary for an owner and provide an emotional burden on daily life. It is therefore important to have a swift clinical reasoning approach and use the current arsenal of antiepileptic drugs appropriately. This forum presents an introduction to an approach of how to manage canine epilepsy, followed by a discussion on the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
An update on degenerative myelopathy in dogs
Authors: Neeves Jacob , Granger Nicolas
Published: July 2015

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting dogs. In this paper, we outline the clinical picture for DM with regards to signalment, population susceptibility, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. The underlying genetics and histopathology are reviewed; these are areas requiring attention if we are to move forward in our understanding of this disease to a point where we can start designing and testing new therapies. We would like to raise awareness of the disease, because an increasing number of breeds have been recognised as being affected. The discovery of an SOD-1 gene mutation associated with the disease has led to a commercially available genetic screening test for dogs. It has also established the possibility, although this is not fully confirmed, that DM might represent a form of the human disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Practical emergency medicine: diagnostic tests
Authors: Parratt Chris , Parrish Hannah
Published: July 2015

Patients presenting with acute life-threatening conditions often pose a diagnostic dilemma. This article illustrates some practical diagnostic tests that can be utilised in the first few minutes of a critically ill patient presenting to the practice, and combines a brief review of relevant literature with the authors' own clinical experience with the techniques. It is strongly recommended that familiarisation with these tests is performed in non-critical patients, and the authors encourage the reader to become acquainted with the literature on these topics. The reference list at the end of the article is a good starting point — emergency medicine is an exciting and constantly evolving subject.
Outcomes of children with advanced HIV initiated on antiretroviral therapy in a South African hospice
Authors: Brits Hanneke , Joubert Gina
Published: July 2015

Background:

Little is known about the long-term outcome of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for children with advanced-stage HIV.

Aim:

To assess the outcome in children with advanced HIV initiated on ART. The predictors for survival, general wellbeing and the role of palliative care were assessed.

Methods:

Patient files, retained patient records and personal follow-up were used for data collection. Data on baseline characteristics, ART treatment and progress were collected at baseline, 6, 12 and 48 months. Information regarding general wellbeing and school attendance and performance were collected.

Results:

37 children were started on ART. At 48 months there were 18 known survivors and 7 known to have died. Another 12 were transferred to another programme or lost to follow-up. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between groups. All eligible children attended school and all received medical care. The hospice programme offered holistic care and support.

Conclusions:

No baseline characteristic could predict the outcome of children with advanced HIV initiated on ART. A hospice support programme can contribute to positive outcomes even when ART is initiated in children with advanced disease.
Research roundup
Authors: Franklin Jennifer
Published: July 2015

Synopses of a selection of recently published research articles of relevance to palliative care.
Politics and palliative care: Dominican Republic
Authors: Smyth Dion
Published: July 2015

Dion Smyth's review of the internet for palliative nursing
Structure of natural Juniperus excelsa stands in Northwest of Iran
Authors: TAVANKAR FARZAM
Published: July 2015

Tavankar F. 2015.Structure of natural Juniperus excelsa stands in Northwest of Iran. Biodiversitas 16: 161-167. Juniperusexcelsa M. Bieb. stands are important forest ecosystems in mountain areas of Iran. In this research the structure of J. excelsa stands wasstudied at altitudes of 1,400 to 1,900 m in northwest of Iran. The results showed that the mean densities of trees and seedling (trees withheight up to 1.3 m) were 99.8 Â± 32.0 and 70.5 Â± 18.3 stem ha-1, respectively. The juniper trees comprise 52.8% of the total tree density,while the juniper seedlings comprise 19.3% of total seedling density. The mean of basal area in this stand was 3.12 Â± 0.3 m2 ha-1 and themean of canopy cover was 42.7 Â± 17.9 percent. The mean of trees height was obtained 2.75 Â± 1.1 m. The total of 28 woody speciesbelonging to 14 families was recorded from the study area. The juniper trees had the maximum value of species importance value(SIV=87.3). Amygdalus lyciodes and Pistacia atlantica were two tree species that have high SIV values, 34.1 and 27.0, respectively.Thedistribution of trees density in different tree diameters resemble to a reverse J-shaped indicating uneven-aged structure. The resultsindicated juniper seedlings were increased by increasing stand crown cover (P< 0.01). Moreover extreme environmental conditions,grazing and timber harvesting for firewood are two important socioeconomic problems in these forests. These valuable stands needs tourgently conservation strategies.
Diseño de recursos tecnológicos para la formación cívica y ética: la experiencia de la telesecundaria en México
Authors: Landeros Aguirre Leticia Gabriela
Published: July 2015

En el artículo se comparte la experiencia relativa al diseño de materiales educativos que apoyan la asignatura Formación Cívica y Ética (FCYE) en México. Se retoma el caso específico de la Telesecundaria, modalidad sustentada en el uso de tecnologías que atiende a más de un millón de estudiantes entre 12 y 15 años de edad en zonas semiurbanas y rurales del país. Se presentan una mirada sobre el proceso seguido en el año 2006 y algunos de los aspectos que resultaron más relevantes al articular una propuesta curricular con carácter nacional y una propuesta didáctica basada en el uso de tecnologías. Se destacan tres elementos: la definición de un posicionamiento teórico y didáctico sobre la formación cívica y ética; la definición de aprendizajes fundamentales a promover mediante los materiales diseñados, y los desafíos que conlleva generar e implementar recursos tecnológicos en contextos de exclusión social y amplia brecha digital.
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography analysis of prevalence of Nasal Septum Deviation and its relationship with the presence of Middle Concha Bullosa
Authors: Lopes Sergio Lucio Pereira de Castro , Moraes Mari Eli Leonelli de , Manhães Junior Luiz Roberto Coutinho , Gamba Thiago de Oliveira , Flores Isadora Luana , Faria Carolina Fernandes de , Assis Afonso Celso
Published: July 2015

Objetivo: Este estudo teve com objetivo analisar a prevalência do desvio do septo nasal e da presença de concha nasal média bolhosa e estudar a possível relação entre estes por meio de imagens por tomografia computadorizada de feixes cônicos (TCFC).Material e Métodos: Foram selecionados 118 exames de TCFC de arquivo, previamente adquiridos por indicações diversas para odontologia. Todos os exames foram realizados em tomógrafo i-CAT Next Generation (imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, PA, EUA) com o mesmo protocolo, tendo o FOV (Field of View) abrangendo o terço médio e inferior da face. Todas as imagens foram avaliadas no software especifico do sistema por 01 avaliador devidamente treinado. O desvio de septo nasal, a concha nasal média bolhosa e demais dados foram tabulados e realizada a análise descritiva dos mesmos. O teste de McNemar foi aplicado para se estudar a possível relação entre os mesmos. Resultados: Os resultados indicaram que, nos casos em que não ocorria o desvio de septo nasal, 73,5% destes não apresentaram e 26,5% destes apresentaram a concha média bolhosa. Considerando-se apenas os casos que apresentaram o desvio de septo nasal para um dos lados, a proporção que não apresentou a concha média bolhosa para o mesmo lado foi de 77,1% e a que apresentou também a concha média bolhosa para o mesmo lado foi de 22,9%. Conclusão: Concluiu-se que não houve relação (p=0,568) entre a presença das duas variáveis analisadas na pesquisa – desvio de septo nasal e presença de concha média bolhosa. Palavras-chave: Cavidade nasal; Septo nasal; Tomografia Computadorizada de Feixe Cônico.
A comparative study of biaxial flexural strength and Vickers microhardness of different zirconia materials: Effect of glazing and thermal cycling
Authors: Salihoglu Yener Esra , Ozcan Mutlu , Kazazoglu Ender
Published: July 2015

Objective:This study evaluated the effect of glazing and thermal cycling on biaxial flexural strength and Vickers hardness of different zirconia core materials. Material and Methods: Disc shaped zirconia specimens (15 mm x 1.15 mm) were fabricated out of three systems (ZirkonZahn, Cercon, Ceramill) according to each manufacturer`s instructions. The specimens of each system were randomly divided into initially 2 groups. While half of the specimens were glazed, the other half was left unglazed. Each group was further divided into 4 subgroups to be subjected to thermal cycling (0-control, 1000, 3000, 5000 cycles, 5-55 ºC). Biaxial flexural strength was tested in a universal testing machine (1 mm/min). Another set of unglazed zirconia specimens were made and tested for Vickers microhardness with and without thermocycling (0-control, 1000, 3000, 5000 cycles, 5-55 ºC). Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA, two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (p < 0.05). Results: In non-aged conditions (11034-1388 MPa), glazing significantly decreased the biaxial flexural strength of all zirconia ceramics (845.65-897.35 MPa) (p = 0.000). While in the non-glazed groups, all thermal cycling regimens significantly decreased the biaxial flexural strength (864-1156 MPa) (p=0.000), in glazed groups thermal cycling did not affect the results (829.4-854.9 MPa) (p = 0.405). Compared to the non-aged group (1414.1 VHN), thermal cycling decreased the Vickers hardness significantly only for Cercon (1365.9 VHN) (p = 0.005). Conclusion: Glazing decreased the biaxial flexural strength of the zirconia ceramics tested. Unglazed zirconia ceramics were weaker against thermal cycling compared to glazed ones. For monolithic zirconia restorations, this information may have clinical importance.Keywords:Biaxial flexural strength; Glazing; Thermal cycling; Vickers microhardness; Zirconia.
Hemodynamic evaluation of normotensive and hypertensive patients undergoing dental extraction under local anesthesia with 3% prilocaine with felypressin
Authors: Nascimento Rodrigo Dias , De Santis Leandro Ruivo , Assunção Daniel de Cerqueira , Cardoso Paula Elaine , De Moraes Michelle Bianchi , Raldi Fernando Vagner
Published: July 2015

Objective: this study evaluated hemodynamic variations of normotensive and hypertensive patients undergoing dental extraction under local anesthesia with 3% prilocaine with felypressin 0.03UI/ml. Material and Methods: 49 patients of the Department of Surgery and Maxillo-facial Traumatology ambulatory were evaluated, 30 normotensive and 19 hypertensive, presenting initial systolic blood pressure lower then 160 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure lower then 100 mmHg, besides being under medical supervision. Patients underwent molar or premolar extraction, typically deployed with maximum degree of mobility 2, according to Miller’s classification. The parameters evaluated were systolic and diastolic blood pressures and heart rate, using an automatic digital pulse device, in the following periods: T1 - initial (5 minutes before the beginning of surgery, T2 – post-anesthesia (2 minutes after anesthetic administration); T3 – trans-operatory (each 5 minutes after T2 until 20 minutes completition, totalyzing 4 trans-operatory  mensurations); T4 – post-surgery (5 minutes after surgery). Results: statistical analysis showed that for the parameters systolic blood pressure (P = 0.959) and diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.754) no statistically significant difference for these parameters in different evaluation periods. The analysis of heart rate values showed no statistical difference (p <0.05) between the values obtained in T1 in hypertensive and normotensive patients in T3.3. Conclusion: it was concluded that the evaluated hemodynamic parameters varied in different periods evaluated in the group of normotensive and hypertensive patients, but did not differ significantly.
The Undeserving Professor: Neoliberalism and the Reinvention of Higher Education
Authors: Winslow Luke
Published: July 2015

The perceived social value of higher education in the United States and the political will to fund it represents a fascinating paradox. This article explores one way that paradox is reconciled. I look closely at the emergence of a specific educational critique in the discourse of the Texas Public Policy Foundation. The critique encourages a neoliberal reinvention of higher education. It does so by constructing symbolic representations that align with preexisting public vocabularies and socially shared orientations reflected in images of the Deserving and Undeserving Poor. By illuminating the discursive techniques by which these representations construct an image of what I call the Undeserving Professor, the critique offers significant theoretical and political insights into an underexplored area of rhetoric, neoliberalism, and public affairs.
Phyllis Schlafly’s “Positive” Freedom: Liberty, Liberation, and the Equal Rights Amendment
Authors: Miller Eric C.
Published: July 2015

This article considers the rhetoric of Phyllis Schlafly and her STOP ERA movement. Despite the early success and broad popularity of the Equal Rights Amendment in the 1970s, Schlafly and her colleagues were able to prevent its ratification. In their many clashes with proponents of the women’s liberation movement, these traditionalist women successfully appropriated and redeployed an ideographic argument that had been the province of their foes. Specifically, Schlafly claimed that traditional gender roles were freeing to women, ensuring their rights, while “liberation” could lead only to bondage. Drawing on the work of philosopher Isaiah Berlin, I argue that Schlafly’s upbeat, “positive” campaign advanced a “positive” conception of freedom against the “negative” freedom proposed by second-wave feminists. The success of this effort demonstrates the utility of such arguments, especially in a nation that values freedom as both opportunity and exercise. I close by suggesting that Schlafly’s rhetorical strategy has been embraced by subsequent conservative “culture war” movements, ensuring her legacy into the new millennium.
TRATAMENTO FARMACOLÓGICO E INTERAÇÕES MEDICAMENTOSAS EM PACIENTES COM ANEURISMA DA AORTA ABDOMINAL
Authors: Peres Heverton Alves , Castro Sergio Henrique Rafaine de
Published: July 2015

O aneurisma da aorta abdominal (AAA) ocorre quando há uma dilatação anormal e irreversível da artéria superior a 50% do calibre esperado para o vaso e associa-se a uma mortalidade de 80 a 90%. O controle dos principais fatores de risco como a hipertensão, dislipidemia, tabagismo e doenças trombóticas em aneurismas pequenos é feito por vários medicamentos que evitam o desenvolvimento e ruptura do aneurisma, no entanto, o uso destes associados a outros medicamentos pode desencadear interações medicamentosas relevantes sendo crucial o conhecimento sobre estas. Atualmente, há poucos dados na literatura sobre o tratamento farmacológico e interações medicamentosas em pacientes com AAA, sendo o objetivo desta revisão, descrever a farmacoterapia e interações medicamentosas em pacientes com AAA.
ESTUDO COMPARATIVO DA AUTOMEDICAÇÃO PRATICADA POR ESTUDANTES DOS CURSOS DAS ÁREAS DE CIÊNCIAS DA SAÚDE, HUMANAS, EXATAS E SOCIAIS DA UNIVERSIDADE DO PLANALTO CATARINENSE – UNIPLAC
Authors: Souza Marli Adelina , Hoeller Bruna , Goetz Everley Rosane
Published: July 2015

O estudo teve por objetivo pesquisar e analisar o hábito da automedicação entre estudantes dos cursos de Medicina, Engenharia Civil, Pedagogia e Direito da UNIPLAC, verificando além da prevalência da automedicação, o uso desta prática devido ao nível de estresse que cada curso proporciona e as classes dos fármacos, justificando o uso como auxiliares para um bom desempenho nos estudos. O estudo caracterizou-se como observacional, transversal, descritivo, no qual 121 estudantes foram entrevistados. Utilizou-se como instrumento para a coleta de dados, um questionário fechado. A predominância foi do sexo feminino, a média de idade foi de aproximadamente 28 anos, renda familiar acima de quatro salários mínimos. Foi verificado que 71,1% dos estudantes consideraram seu curso estressante, sendo o curso de Medicina considerado o mais estressante e o de Direito, menos estressante. Com relação à automedicação, a partir dos quatro cursos analisados, alunos de Direito e Engenharia Civil apresentaram a mesma percepção de 39%, 40% na Medicina e na Pedagogia 63,6%. As vitaminas foram os medicamentos mais utilizados, seguidos de tranquilizantes e antidepressivos. Tais resultados são sugestivos da necessidade de informar à população sobre o uso correto e seguro de medicamentos.
Cast High-Manganese Steel – the Effect of Microstructure on Abrasive Wear Behaviour in Miller Test
Authors: Kalandyk B. , Tęcza G. , Zapała R. , Sobula S.
Published: July 2015

The results of the modification of austenitic matrix in cast high-manganese steel containing 11÷19% Mn with additions of Cr, Ni and Ti were discussed. The introduction of carbide-forming alloying elements to this cast steel leads to the formation in matrix of stable complex carbide phases, which effectively increase the abrasive wear resistance in a mixture of SiC and water. The starting material used in tests was a cast Hadfield steel containing 11% Mn and 1.34% C. The results presented in the article show significant improvement in abrasive wear resistance and hardness owing to the structure modification with additions of Cr and Ti.
Ultrasound Wave Attenuation of Grain Refined High – Zinc Aluminium Sand-cast Alloys
Authors: Krajewski W.K. , Buraś J. , Krajewski P.K. , Piwowarski G.
Published: July 2015

The paper presents results of measuring attenuation coefficient of the Al-20 wt.% Zn alloy (AlZn20) inoculated with different grain refiners. During experiments the melted alloys were doped with Al-Ti3-C0.15 refining master alloy. Basing on measurements performed by Krautkramer USLT2000 device with 1MHz ultrasound wave frequency it was stated that grain refinement reduces the attenuation coefficient by about 20-25%. However, the examined alloys can be still classified as the high-damping ones of attenuation greater than 150 dB/m.
Manufacturing of Cast Metal Foams with Irregular Cell Structure
Authors: Kroupová I. , Radkovský F. , Lichý P. , Bednářová V.
Published: July 2015

Metallic foams are materials of which the research is still on-going, with the broad applicability in many different areas (e.g. automotive industry, building industry, medicine, etc.). These metallic materials have specific properties, such as large rigidity at low density, high thermal conductivity, capability to absorb energy, etc. The work is focused on the preparation of these materials using conventional casting technology (infiltration method), which ensures rapid and economically feasible method for production of shaped components. In the experimental part we studied conditions of casting of metallic foams with open pores and irregular cell structure made of ferrous and nonferrous alloys by use of various types of filler material (precursors).
Combustion Engine Cylinder Liners Made of Al-Si Alloys
Authors: Orłowicz A.W. , Tupaj M. , Mróz M. , Trytek A.
Published: July 2015

The paper deals with problems related to application of aluminum-silicon alloys for combustion engine cylinder liners.
Materials Used in the Automotive Industry
Authors: Orłowicz A.W. , Mróz M. , Tupaj M. , Trytek A.
Published: July 2015

Elaborated shapes of many car components are the reason for which the use of casting techniques to fabricate them is a solution well founded from the economical point of view. Currently applicable regulatory requirements concerning emissions of exhaust fumes force the carmakers to reduce the overall weight of their products, as this is a basic precondition for reducing fuel consumption. As a result, newly launched car models contain a continuously increasing share of thin-walled castings made of materials which ensure a satisfactory level of service properties. At the same time, developing new technological processes allowing to extend the service life of individual components by means of surface improving becomes more and more important.
Strontium isotopes as an indicator of human migration – easy questions, difficult answers
Authors: Szostek Krzysztof , Mądrzyk Katarzyna , Cienkosz-Stepańczak Beata
Published: July 2015

Isotope analyses of bones and teeth allow us to study phenomena which occurred in the history of human species and which are difficult to capture by traditional anthropological methods. Measuring oxygen, nitrogen and carbon isotope levels in the skeleton makes it possible to reconstruct climatic changes, diet and/or the weaning process. Among isotopes used in such analyses are strontium isotopes, helpful in analysing migration and studying the mobility of historical and prehistoric human populations. In this respect, the proportion of two isotopes, the heavier 87Sr and the lighter 86Sr, is measured, following their extraction from the bioapatite of the bone mineral. Released from rocks in the weathering process, strontium permeates individual components of inanimate and animate environments, and then finds its way, together with food, to the human body. Thanks to comprehensive environmental studies and the measurement of the strontium ratio 87Sr/86Sr in various animal tissues it is possible to determine the local isotope background for the environment. Values obtained by analysing human skeletons referenced against the range of environmental isotope variability enable researchers to trace back the location inhabited by the individual or group.
Height loss with advancing age in a hospitalized population of Polish men and women: magnitude, pattern and associations with mortality
Authors: Chmielewski Piotr , Borysławski Krzysztof , Chmielowiec Krzysztof , Chmielowiec Jolanta
Published: July 2015

The connection between the rate of height loss in older people and their general health status has been well documented in the medical literature. Our study was aimed at furthering the characterization of this interrelationship in the context of health indices and mortality in a hospitalized population of Polish adults. Data were collated from a literature review and from a longitudinal study of aging carried out in the Polish population which followed 142 physically healthy inmates, including 68 men and 74 women, for at least 25 years from the age of 45 onwards. Moreover, cross-sectional data were available from 225 inmates, including 113 men and 112 women. These subjects were confined at the same hospital. ANOVA, t-test, and regression analysis were employed. The results indicate that the onset of height loss emerges in the fourth and five decade of life and there is a gradual acceleration of reduction of height at later stages of ontogeny in both sexes. Postmenopausal women experience a more rapid loss of height compared with men. The individuals who had higher rate of loss of height (≥3 cm/decade) tend to be at greater risk of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. In conclusion, our findings suggest that a systematic assessment of the rate of loss of height can be useful for clinicians caring for elderly people because of its prognostic value in terms of morbidity and mortality.
Grow first, gain fat in the meantime. Longitudinal study of anthropometric changes around menarche
Authors: Ziomkiewicz Anna , Kozieł Sławomir
Published: July 2015

There is a long dispute among anthropologist over which factor is more important – skeletal maturation or energy accumulation – for menarche occurrence. Here we report results of longitudinal study conducted on the sample of 178 girls followed for the period from 2 years before to 2 years after the age of menarche. Each year during this period anthropometric measures of waist and hip circumference, pelvis breadth, subscapular, triceps and abdominal skinfold thickness were taken to document girls’ physical development. We found that changes in hip circumference and pelvis breadth were the most closely associated with menarche appearance. We also found that changes in anthropometric measures of lower body part preceded changes in anthropometric measures of upper body part and tended to peak one year before menarche occurrence while changes in upper body part tended to peak one year after menarche occurrence. These results suggest that both skeletal maturation and energy accumulation in the form of fat are equally important for menarche to occur. Furthermore, we are proposing a new indicator describing allometric changes of pelvis around menarche: hip circumference to pelvis breadth ratio (HCPBR).
Nutritional status among boys and girls of a central Indian Town (Sagar)
Authors: Thakur Rachna , Gautam Rajesh K.
Published: July 2015

The prevalence of undernutrition is a significant area of concern in many developing countries, where it is a major public health problem. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of undernutrition among school-going boys and girls of central Indian city Sagar, MP. A total of 612 individuals (312 girls and 300 boys) aged 5–18 years were examined and compared to the NCHS reference data. The nutritional status was assessed using following anthropometric indicators: body height and weight, body mass index (BMI) and composite index of anthropometric failure (CIAF). It was found that girls were heavier (1 kg) and taller (2–5 cm) than boys up to 15 and 13 years of age, respectively. After that, boys became taller with 1 to 13 cm. The mean BMI of boys was higher to girls up to 10 year of age after that the trend was reversed. Comparison of the present findings with NCHS reference data revealed that Indian girls and boys were lagging behind. The difference in body weight between the reference data and the present sample was around 5 to 6 kg. The pattern of difference in body height revealed small amount during early childhood (6.6.cm and 9.6 cm in girls and boys 5 years of age). This difference more than doubled at the age of 14 years in girls 16.7 cm and in boys 17.5 cm (p<0.01). Similar pattern was found for BMI with 6.5 kg/m2 and 6.3 kg/m2 in 14 years old girls and 16 years old boys (p<0.01). Z-score values of weight-for-age, height-for-age and BMI-for-age revealed that that boys were more likely to be stunted than girls whereas girls were more likely to be underweight and undernourished than boys. In terms of CIAF 10.6% girls and 10% boys were undernourished. The results of the present study indicate that there is great need for implementation of health programmes to eliminate gender inequalities and improve children’s health.
Palaeopathology of human remains of the 1st century BC–3rd century AD from Armenia (Beniamin, Shirakavan I)
Authors: Khudaverdyan Anahit Yu.
Published: July 2015

The aim of this article was to document the pathology of the individuals from the archeological sites of Beniamin and Shirakavan I, Armenia, dated on the 1st century BC - 3rd century AD. The findings revealed that two groups differed in mean age at death of adults. At Beniamin it was 24 years, 40.8 years for males and 30.9 years for females, whereas at Shirakavanit it was 29.3 years, 29.6 years for males and 35.8 years for females. The greatest mortality appeared to have occurred when the children reached the age of one year (Beniamin). The population had high number of young-adult females with a cause of death associated with child-bearing . Very few females survived to old age. Traumatic conditions (63.64%) and enamel hypoplasias (57.2%) have a high frequency in the skeletal material from Shirakavan. The volume of selection of Shirakavan does not allow itself to so big discussion as it was possible with the Beniamin site. Fewer hypoplasias in Beniamin group indicate that food resources were more abundant and more easily exploited. The small frequency of a periodontal disorder indicates that dental hygiene was good during the Antiquity period. We here report a case of possible pituitary dwarfism and a case of decapitation.
Structural power in comparative political economy: perspectives from policy formulation in Latin America
Authors: Fairfield Tasha
Published: July 2015

Structural power is a critical variable that merits more extensive and more explicit attention in Latin American political economy and in comparative politics more broadly. Assessing structural power in conjunction with its counterpart, instrumental power, can provide strong leverage for explaining variation in policy outcomes that affect business interests. However, structural power must be carefully defined and operationalized in order to capture its core attributes and nuances. This task requires wedding the concept's “structural” underpinnings with policymakers’ perceptions and anticipated reactions. Moreover, the relationship between structural power and instrumental power must be carefully theorized. While these concepts encompass distinct channels through which business exerts influence, the two types of power may be mutually reinforcing. I argue that business interests shape policy outcomes when either their structural power or their instrumental power is strong, yet business influence will be more extensive and more consistent when structural power and instrumental power are both strong. However, electoral incentives, and more importantly, popular mobilization, can counteract business power. I illustrate these theoretical points with a case study of Chile's 2014 tax reform proposal, a major policy initiative with important distributive consequences that received international press attention.
Diatom communities and vegetation of springs in the south-western Alps
Authors: Mogna Marcella , Cantonati Marco , Andreucci Flora , Angeli Nicola , Berta Graziella , Miserere Luca
Published: July 2015

Springs are unique but understudied habitats. Diatom communities have received some attention but have remained largely unknown in the south-western Alps. We therefore studied the springs of the south-western extreme of the Alpine mountain range. We analysed epilithic and epiphytic assemblages in 48 springs of different ecomorphological types, located on contrasting lithological substrata (carbonate/siliceous). Moreover, phytosociological relevés were carried out for carbonate springs. The diatom flora consisted of 223 taxa. Most (198) of the taxa were included in the Red List, and 12.5% belonged to threatened categories. Characteristic spring taxa (crenophiles) were present. The ecological preferences of crenophilous diatom species described in the eastern Alps were confirmed. Diatom species characteristic of the lake-littoral zone were found in pool springs. We observed no significant differences in species richness and diversity between epilithic and epiphytic assemblages, but some species showed a preference for bryophytes, and five occurred in the epibryon only. As regards moisture conditions, 15% of the taxa occurred on wet or temporarily dry sites, and 4% lived mostly outside water bodies. The main environmental factors influencing diatom assemblages were pH, conductivity, altitude, and shading. The carbonate-substratum crenic vegetation was composed of a mixture of vascular plants and bryophytes, which find their ecological optimum in springs. Bryophyte cover was dominant, with the most abundant taxa belonging to the genus Palustriella. The vegetation corresponded to the Cratoneuretum commutati association.
Checklist Of Fungi Of The Genus Russula From Belarusian-Valdai Lake District
Authors: Kolmakov Pavel
Published: July 2015

The species diversity of the genus Russula Pers. was studied at the northern part of Belarus and the southern part of Pskov region of Russia. The region of the study is characterized by numerous lakes and rugged terrain. The checklist of fungi of the genus Russula is based on the material collected by the author in 1999–2013 as well as the herbarium collections and published data of the other authors. The checklist encompasses 60 species, 28 of these were found to be rare in the area. R. azurea and R. favrei were reported for the first time in Belarus. Nineteen species – R. alutacea, R. atropurpurea, R. aurantiaca, R. brunneoviolacea, R. consobrina, R. fellea, R. grisea, R. heterophylla, R. laeta, R. mustelina, R. nitida, R. pectinatoides, R. pseudodelica, R. pseudointegra, R. rhodopoda, R. rosea, R. sanguinea, R. seperina and R. versicolor were reported for the first time in Pskov region. Most of the listed Russula species are widely distributed in Europe. Most species that are rare in the study region are uncommon in the whole Europe as well.