bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Objective Indicators of Physical Activity and Sedentary Time and Associations with Subjective Well-Being in Adults Aged 70 and Over
Authors: Withall Janet , Stathi Afroditi , Davis Mark , Coulson Jo , Thompson Janice , Fox Kenneth
Published: January 2014

This study explored the associations of the volume and intensity of physical activity and the volume of sedentary time with subjective well-being in a diverse group of 228 older adults in the UK (111 female, mean age 78.2 years (SD 5.8)). Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour were assessed by accelerometry deriving mean steps per day, mean moderate/vigorous PA minutes per hour (MVPA min·h−1) and minutes of sedentary time per hour (ST min·h−1). Lower limb function was assessed by the Short Physical Performance Battery. Subjective well-being was assessed using the SF-12 health status scale, the Ageing Well Profile and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Linear regressions were used to investigate associations between the independent variables which included physical activity (steps and MVPA), sedentary time, participant characteristics (gender, age, BMI, education, number of medical conditions), and lower limb function and dependent variables which included mental and physical well-being. Steps, MVPA and lower limb function were independently and moderately positively associated with perceived physical well-being but relationships with mental well-being variables were weak. No significant associations between sedentary behaviours and well-being were observed. The association between objectively evaluated physical activity and function and subjective evaluations of physical well-being suggest that improving perceptions of physical health and function may provide an important target for physical activity programmes. This in turn may drive further activity participation.
Effect of Low-Frequency AC Magnetic Susceptibility and Magnetic Properties of CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB Magnetic Tunnel Junctions
Authors: Chen Yuan-Tsung , Lin Sung-Hao , Sheu Tzer-Shin
Published: January 2014

In this investigation, the low-frequency alternate-current (AC) magnetic susceptibility (χac) and hysteresis loop of various MgO thickness in CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB magnetic tunneling junction (MTJ) determined coercivity (Hc) and magnetization (Ms) and correlated that with χac maxima. The multilayer films were sputtered onto glass substrates and the thickness of intermediate barrier MgO layer was varied from 6 to 15 Å. An experiment was also performed to examine the variation of the highest χac and maximum phase angle (θmax) at the optimal resonance frequency (fres), at which the spin sensitivity is maximal. The results reveal that χac falls as the frequency increases due to the relationship between magnetization and thickness of the barrier layer. The maximum χac is at 10 Hz that is related to the maximal spin sensitivity and that this corresponds to a MgO layer of 11 Å. This result also suggests that the spin sensitivity is related to both highest χac and maximum phase angle. The corresponding maximum of χac is related to high exchange coupling. High coercivity and saturation magnetization contribute to high exchange-coupling χac strength.
Quality Factor Effect on the Wireless Range of Microstrip Patch Antenna Strain Sensors
Authors: Daliri Ali , Galehdar Amir , Rowe Wayne , John Sabu , Wang Chun , Ghorbani Kamran
Published: January 2014

Recently introduced passive wireless strain sensors based on microstrip patch antennas have shown great potential for reliable health and usage monitoring in aerospace and civil industries. However, the wireless interrogation range of these sensors is limited to few centimeters, which restricts their practical application. This paper presents an investigation on the effect of circular microstrip patch antenna (CMPA) design on the quality factor and the maximum practical wireless reading range of the sensor. The results reveal that by using appropriate substrate materials the interrogation distance of the CMPA sensor can be increased four-fold, from the previously reported 5 to 20 cm, thus improving considerably the viability of this type of wireless sensors for strain measurement and damage detection.
Leopold’s Arboretum Needs Upstream Water Treatment to Restore Wetlands Downstream
Authors: Zedler Joy , Doherty James , Rojas Isabel
Published: January 2014

A case study has broad relevance for urban natural reserves. Aldo Leopold’s far-reaching vision to restore historical ecosystems at the UW-Madison Arboretum has been difficult to achieve despite ~80 years of restoration work. Wetlands (~1/4 of the 485-ha reserve) resist restoration, given urban watersheds and inflows of low quality water. Current conditions favor aggressive invasive plants (cattails, reed canary grass, and buckthorn)—species that do not fulfill the 1934 vision. Today, urban runoff flows into remnant natural wetlands, degraded wetlands, the iconic Curtis Prairie, and constructed wetlands. Regulations for total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) have led local municipalities to expand pre-existing sediment- and nutrient-trapping ponds from 5.67 ha (14 ac) of Arboretum land to 9.3 ha (23 ac) to protect downstream lakes. Both the runoff and the treatment facilities (with invasive plants) limit the Arboretum’s ability to achieve pre-settlement vegetation. Consistent with Leopold’s vision, we endorse Arboretum principles that urban runoff be restored to pre-settlement quality, and we recommend shifting efforts to reduce TMDLs to upstream lands in order to protect the Arboretum. Given that invasive species will persist, Leopold’s Arboretum should be rededicated to research, education, and restoration, plus sustainable management of its waters and wetlands.
Synthesis, characterization and initial evaluation of 5-nitro-1-(trifluoromethyl)-3H-1λ3,2-benziodaoxol-3-one
Authors: Santschi Nico , Sarott Roman C , Otth Elisabeth , Kissner Reinhard , Togni Antonio
Published: January 2014

The synthesis of 5-nitro-1-(trifluoromethyl)-3H-1λ3,2-benziodaoxol-3-one (3), a hypervalent-iodine-based electrophilic trifluoromethylating reagent, is described. Whereas considerations based on cyclic voltammetry and X-ray structural properties would predict an inferior reactivity when compared to the non-nitrated derivative 2, 19F NMR kinetic studies showed that this new derivative is almost one order of magnitude more reactive. Furthermore, differential scanning calorimetry measurements indicated that, in addition, it is also safer to handle.
LABOUR MIGRATION FLOWS: EU8+2 VS EU-15
Authors: Josifidis Kosta , Supic Novica , Pucar Emilija Beker
Published: January 2014

The aim of this paper is to determine whether, and to what extent, the migrations from the EU-8+2 to the EU-15 were motivated by differences in earnings and productivity and to what extent by differences in welfare state generosity during the period of the transitional arrangements. On these grounds, a distinction emerges between “favourable” and “unfavourable” migrations on one hand and immigration net winners and losers on the other hand. The obtained results represent an empirical ground for the discussion on the thesis according to which more generous welfare state regimes will be more susceptible to the influx of unfavourable immigrants during the upcoming period of the free movement of labour, while the less generous welfare state regimes will be a magnet for the favourable immigration influx within the EU-27.
Configuraciones estructurales en las instituciones de educación superior y actitudes de los académicos frente a la calidad
Authors: Olaskoaga Larrauri Jon , Marúm Espinosa Elia , Rosario Muñoz Víctor Manuel
Published: January 2014

The speech about quality on goods and services moved from business management to public administration services, including the higher education has provoked a reaction in the opposite way among many of the experts in education. This article is placed in a section of the literature which interest resides in explaining the reasons why a considerable proportion of academics are opposed to the introduction of quality management, and proposes a different approach based in their experience working in an organization with a very specific structural configuration which conditions are favourable for the academic community.
The cost or benefit of socially responsible investment
Authors: Gómez-Bezares Fernando , Muñoz Fernando , Vargas María
Published: January 2014

This paper takes as its starting-point the traditionalTreynor and Mazuy timing model and its conditionalversion and adapts them so as to be able to distinguishbetween the stock picking and Market timing abilities ofethical and conventional fund managers. SevenEuropean countries are analysed and similar results arefound for each country. In general, perverse stockpicking and Market timing abilities are observed forconventional fund managers. With regard to ethical fundmanagers, we find they manage to match theirbenchmark both when it outperforms or underperformsthe conventional benchmark. Furthermore in some casesa positive stock picking ability is found for ethical funds.The more restrictive the definition of the term ethicalfund, the greater the cost of diversification for ethicalmanagers. Moreover for best-in-class funds a negativestock picking ability is registered, and in relation withMarket timing, we find that they are more influenced bytheir benchmark than the rest of the ethical funds.
Editorial Letter from the Director
Authors: Civera Gibert Montserrat
Published: January 2014

Carta de la Directora Editorial
Modified radical retropubic prostatectomy: Personal technical variation “tension free continuum-urethral anastomosis (T.F.C.U.A)” with optical magnification in the preservation of the bladder neck, and estimation of the urinary continence
Authors: Roggia Alberto , Pozzi Emilio , Mantica Guglielmo , Salvadore Maurizio , Choussos Dimitrios , Di Franco Carmelo , Bianchi Carlo Maria
Published: January 2014

Objective: To reassess the double continence technique for open retropubic radical prostatectomy, proposed by Malizia and employed by Pagano et al., with the “tension free continuum-urethral anastomosis” (T.F.C.U.A.) personal modification and the use of image magnification optical systems and appropriate and delicate surgical tools. Materials and methods: A total of 173 radical retropubic prostatectomies, performed by the same surgeon, were evaluated in terms of early and late continence. Results: The presence of residual prostate cancer cells within the muscle layer was always excluded by the histopathological examination that also demonstrated that the muscle layer was well represented; satisfactory outcomes were obtained in terms of both early urinary continence (60%) and urinary continence at 6-12 month follow-up (92.4% for the whole series and 97.2% for the last series of patients). Conclusions: The “tension free” anastomosis obtained by the suspension of the anterior bladder wall to the the pubis along the median line allowed to achieve satisfactory outcomes in terms of urinary continence, even if these data obviously need to be confirmed by other series and comparative trials.
Serum fetuin-A and recurrent urolithiasis in young adults
Authors: Prezioso Domenico , Saita Alberto , Motta Mario , Porena Massimo , Micheli Carla , Illiano Ester , Bruzzese Dario , Bisesti Vincenzo , Ferrari Paolo , Lotti Tullio , Russo Domenico
Published: January 2014

Objective: Recurrence of urolithiasis is frequent. There are no reliable markers able to indicate recurrent stone former patients. Fetuin-A inhibits hydroxyapatite crystals formation and expansion. This study aims at evaluating whether serum fetuin-A may predict recurrent urolithiasis in young adults. Materials and methods: This is a multicentre study. Young adults patients with recurrent urolithiasis attending 3 urology clinics were enrolled from July 2011 to December 2012. Inclusion criteria were: age 18-40 years, presence of more than one kidney stone. Exclusion criteria were: diabetes mellitus, metabolic disorders, obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, infection diseases. Controls were participants without history of urolithiasis and currently undetected stones. Routine biochemistry, serum concentration of oxalate, fetuin-A, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were assessed; 24/h urinary excretion of creatinine, uric acid, calcium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, glucose, oxalate, amylase, and protein was measured. Kidney ultrasonography and plain X-ray examination was performed. Results: The total cohort was represented by 120 young adults participants (90 patients, and 30 controls). Clinical characteristics were not different between patients and controls. No significant differences were found in serum concentrations as well as in 24/h urinary excretion of recorded variables. No significant difference was found in serum concentration of fetuin-A (median 35.1 ± 18.62 SD Vs 35.12 ± 14.12, μg/ml; p = 0,908). Conclusions: The data of present study do not substantiate the hypothesis that serum fetuin-A may be a reliable predictor of recurrent urolithiasis in young adults.
Serenoa repens extract additionally to quinolones in the treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis. The preliminary results of a long term observational study
Authors: Stamatiou Konstantinos , Pierris Nikolaos
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Chronic prostatitis displays a variety of symptoms (mainly local pain exhibiting variability in origin and intensity). The purpose of this article is to briefly present the preliminary results of our study examining the role of phytotherapeutic agents in the treatment of chronic prostatitis patients. Materials and methods: The study included in total fifty-six consecutive patients who visited the outpatient department. Subjects were randomized into two groups. Subjects in the first group (28 patients) received prulifloxacin 600 mg for 15 days, while subjects in the second group (28 patients) received prulifloxacin 600 mg for 15 days and Serenoa repens extract for 8 weeks. The response was tested using laboratory and clinical criteria. Results: We found statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding pain regression and no statistically significant regarding bacterial eradication. Moreover however while sexual dysfunction improvement was equally achieved in both groups, improvement of urinary symptoms was more evident in the 2nd group especially after the completion of the antibiotic treatment. Conclusions: Serenoa repens extract for 8 weeks seems to improve prostatitis related pain. Further randomized, placebo-controlled studies are needed to substantiate safer conclusions.
Clinical effects and economical impact of dutasteride and finasteride therapy in Italian men with LUTS
Authors: Cindolo Luca , Berardinelli Francesco , Fanizza Caterina , Romero Marilena , Pirozzi Luisella , Tamburro Fabiola Raffaella , Pellegrini Fabrizio , Neri Fabio , Pitrelli Andrea , Schips Luigi
Published: January 2014

Objectives: To investigate differences in the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)- related hospitalization, for surgical and non-surgical reasons, and of new prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis between patients under dutasteride or finasteride treatment. Material and methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from record-linkage of administrative databases. Men aged ≥ 40 years old who had received a prescription for at least 10 boxes/year (index years: 2004-06) were included. The association of the outcomes was assessed using a multiple Cox proportional hazard model. Propensity scorematched analysis and a 5-to-1, greedy 1:1 matching algorithm were performed. The budget impact analysis of dutasteride vs finasteride in BPH-treated patient was performed. Results: From an initial cohort of about 1.5 million of Italian men, 19620 were selected. The overall hospitalization for BPH-non surgical reasons, for BPH-related surgery and for new detection of PCa incidence rates (IRs) were 8.20 (95% CI, 7.62-8.23), 18.0 (95% CI, 17.12-18.93) and 8.62 (95% CI, 8.03-9.26) per 1000 person-years, respectively. The multivariate analysis after the propensity score-matching showed that dutasteride was associated with an independent reduced likelihood of hospitalization for BPH-related surgery (HR 0.82; 95% CI 0.73-0.93; p = 0.0025) and of newly detected PCa (HR: 0.76,95% CI, 0.65-0.85; p = 0.0116). The IR for BPH-non surgical reasons was 8.07 (95% CI, 7.10-9.17) and 9.25 (95% CI, 8.19-10.44) per 1000 person-years, respectively. The IR for BPH-related surgery was 18.28 (95% CI, 17.17-20.32) and 21.28 (95% CI, 19.24-23.06) per 1000 person-years among patients under dutasteride compared with those under finasteride, respectively. For new-onset PCa, the IR was 8.01 (95% CI, 7.07-9.08) and 9.38 (95% CI, 8.32-10.58) per 1000 person-years The pharmacoeconomical evaluation showed that the net budget impact of the use of dutasteride vs. finasteride in 1000 BPH-treated patient for 1 year induces a saving of 3933 €. Conclusions: The clinical effects of dutasteride and finasteride are slightly different. The likelihood of hospitalization for BPH-related surgery and of newly detected PCa seems to be in favor of dutasteride. The budget impact analyses showed a slightly benefit for dutasteride. Comparative prospective studies are necessary to confirm these results.
Wunderlich’s syndrome: Three cases of acute spontaneous renal bleeding, conservately treated
Authors: Guttilla Andrea , Crestani Alessandro , Cattaneo Francesco , Zattoni Fabio , Valotto Claudio , Iafrate Massimo , Dal Moro Fabrizio , Zattoni Filiberto
Published: January 2014

Wunderlich’s syndrome is a clinical condition defined as a spontaneous renal bleeding of non traumatic origin, contained within the Gerota’s fascia. Wunderlich’s syndrome is rare. Spontaneous bleeding of kidney tumors, either benign or malignant, represents the more common causes. Classically it presents with acute flank pain, tender palpable mass and clinical hemodynamic deterioration. These symptoms are defined as the Lenk’s classic triad. We present three cases of spontaneous renal bleeding.
The role of the under-layer in the coloured perception of gildings in mediaeval mural paintings
Authors: Mounier Aurélie , Daniel Floréal
Published: January 2014

A study of the gildings used in mural paintings from the 12th to 16th century showed rather limited types of application techniques (essentially mixtion techniques, but also in rare examples distemper techniques) and a higher variety of employed metals. Samples have been taken off from mural paintings in the southwest of France as in the Bordeaux Cathedral, Meyrals Castle, Ste-Marie Church of Audignon. Samples analyses have been carried out by scanning electron microscopy coupled with an energy dispersive X-ray analysis system, Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Depending on the metal used for the gilding, the under-layer could be different in terms of material and colour. Under the gold leaves, the layer is usually red or yellow. That can be explained by the absorption properties of light by the gold leaf. Under tin leaves, which are thicker and opaque, the usefulness of the under-layer is less obvious. An experimental study illustrates the role of the coloured under-layer.
Composition data of a large collection of black-appearing Roman glass
Authors: Cagno Simone , Cosyns Peter , Van der Linden Veerle , Schalm Olivier , Izmer Andrei , Deconinck Isolde , Vanhaecke Frank , Nowak Anna , Wagner Barbara , Bulska Ewa , Nys Karin , Janssens Koen
Published: January 2014

Jewels and tableware made of black-appearing glass were popular in the Roman Empire. Compositional changes (due to modifications in glassmaking technology and use of raw materials) over the period considered (1st-5th century AD) have been investigated on a large number of samples originating from various archaeological excavations in Europe, Northern Africa and the Near East. In the course of this work, over 400 samples of Roman glass, the greatest part of them deeply coloured glass fragments, were embedded into acrylic resin and mechanically ground and polished in order to obtain flat surfaces of unaltered glass. The samples were analysed with scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and the quantification was performed by using a standard-less ZAF software. The trace elements contained in a selection of glass samples were determined via laser ablation-inductively coupled plasmamass spectrometry. The data collected in this study show that from about 150 AD a change in the black glass production process occurred, involving coloration of raw glass made with iron in the secondary workshops. Furthermore, from the 4th century AD on we can observe a change in the type of raw glass used, while the colouring process was maintained. The main aim of this paper is to provide glass scholars with the analysis results, as reference and comparison for further studies.
Study on Western Asiatic cast ribbed rectangular beads from Kaman-Kalehöyük, Turkey, by using portable X-ray fluorescence
Authors: Nakai Izumi , Tantrakarn Kriengkamol , Abe Yoshinari , Omura Sachihiro
Published: January 2014

In this article we report a comparative study on excavated objects and artifact from museums to reveal an aspect of ancient trade. The target artifact is Western Asiatic cast ribbed rectangular beads excavated from an architectural remain at Kaman-Kalehöyük, Turkey. Blue glass beads of this type have been excavated in Western Asia from north Iran and Iraq to the Syro-Palestinian coast from second half of 16th to 14th century BC. The analysis of the samples was carried out by using a portable Xray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer developed by us. The instrument was brought to the excavation site in Turkey as well as to the museums to analyse typologically similar glass beads from the collection of Okayama Orient Museum and MIHO MUSEUM in Japan, for comparison. Our XRF analyses suggested that all analysed glass artifacts are plant ash sodalime silica glass with 2-4 wt% magnesium and potassium. The three glass beads exhibited similar compositional characteristic, i.e. they contain Sb, Pb, Fe, Cu and Sr in similar quantities. A typological and principal component analysis comparison of the glass beads unearthed from Kaman- Kalehöyük site with those of the museums and literature data support that they should have a similar origin. In addition, archaeological context of the glass from Kaman-Kalehöyük also supports that the artifact belongs to the Middle-Late Bronze Age (16th to 15th centuries BC). This is the first scientific material evidence that shows the possibility of a cultural flow from Mesopotamia region to Kaman-Kalehöyük during Middle- Late Bronze Age.
A lectin extracted from Citrullus colocynthis L. (Cucurbitaceae) inhibits digestive α-amylase of Ectomyelois ceratoniae Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Ramzi S. , Sahragard A.
Published: January 2014

A lectin was extracted from seeds of Citrullus colocynthis (Cucurbitaceae) by column chromatography using Sepharose 4BGalactose and DEAE-Cellulose fast flow. The inhibitory effects of the extracted lectin on digestive α-amylase of Ectomyelois ceratoniae larvae were studied using pH, temperature, time of incubation and kinetic parameters. Different concentrations of extracted lectin, Citrullus colocynthis agglutinin (CCA), inhibited digestive amylolytic activity by 22-49%. The highest inhibition was obtained at pH 8 and 9, which corresponds with the highest enzymatic activity in the control. The highest inhibition of E. ceratoniae α-amylase was found at 40°C, which corresponds with the optimal temperature for enzymatic activity. Timecourse experiments revealed the highest amylolytic activity at 20-40 min post-incubation, while the highest inhibition was found after 20- 30 min. Kinetic analysis showed that incubation of α-amylase with CCA significantly decreased Vmax, indicating non-competitive inhibition, but no statistical difference was found in the Km value. Our results indicated that CCA significantly inhibited activity of digestive α-amylase in E. ceratoniae larvae, suggesting its possible application as a potential alternative control method against this pest.
Chemical feedback effects on the spatial patterns of the NOx weekend effect: a sensitivity analysis
Authors: Valin L. C. , Russell A. R. , Cohen R. C.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. We examine spatial variations in the weekday–weekend pattern of NO2 over the Los Angeles metropolitan area using the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) and then compare the observations to calculations using the WRF-Chem model. We find that the spatial pattern of the weekday–weekend variations of the NO2 column in the model is significantly different than observed. A sensitivity study shows that the contrasting spatial pattern of NO2 on weekdays and weekends is a useful diagnostic of emissions and chemistry. These improvements suggest that constraints from space-based observations of the processes affecting urban photochemistry (e.g., spatial patterns of emissions, ratios of VOC to NOx emissions, rate constants) are possible at a level of detail not previously described.
Ozonolysis of surface-adsorbed methoxyphenols: kinetics of aromatic ring cleavage vs. alkene side-chain oxidation
Authors: O'Neill E. M. , Kawam A. Z. , Van Ry D. A. , Hinrichs R. Z.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. Lignin pyrolysis products, which include a variety of substituted methoxyphenols, constitute a major component of organics released by biomass combustion, and may play a central role in the formation of atmospheric brown carbon. Understanding the atmospheric fate of these compounds upon exposure to trace gases is therefore critical to predicting the chemical and physical properties of biomass burning aerosol. We used diffuse reflectance infrared spectroscopy to monitor the heterogeneous ozonolysis of 4-propylguaiacol, eugenol, and isoeugenol adsorbed on NaCl and α-Al2O3 substrates. Adsorption of gaseous methoxyphenols onto these substrates produced near-monolayer surface concentrations of 3 × 1018 molecules m−2. The subsequent dark heterogeneous ozonolysis of adsorbed 4-propylguaiacol cleaved the aromatic ring between the methoxy and phenol groups with the product conclusively identified by GC-MS and 1H-NMR. Kinetic analysis of eugenol and isoeugenol dark ozonolysis also suggested the formation of ring-cleaved products, although ozonolysis of the unsaturated substituent groups forming carboxylic acids and aldehydes was an order of magnitude faster. Average uptake coefficients for NaCl-adsorbed methoxyphenols were γ = 2.3 (± 0.8) × 10−7 and 2 (± 1) × 10−6 for ozonolysis of the aromatic ring and the unsaturated side chain, respectively, and reactions on α-Al2O3 were approximately two times slower. UV–visible radiation (λ > 300 nm) enhanced eugenol ozonolysis of the aromatic ring by a factor of 4(± 1) but had no effect on ozonolysis of the alkene side chain.
Release of hydrogen peroxide and antioxidant by the coral Stylophora pistillata to its external milieu
Authors: Armoza-Zvuloni R. , Shaked Y.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a common reactive oxygen species, plays multiple roles in coral health and disease. Elevated H2O2 production by the symbiotic algae during stress may result in symbiosis breakdown and bleaching of the coral. We have recently reported that various Red Sea corals release H2O2 and antioxidants to their external milieu and can influence the H2O2 dynamics in the reef. Here we present laboratory characterization of H2O2 and antioxidant activity release kinetics by intact, non-stressed Stylophora pistillata. Experimenting with bleached and non-bleached corals and different stirring speeds, we explored the sources and modes of H2O2 and antioxidant release. Since H2O2 is produced and degraded simultaneously, we developed methodology for resolving the actual rates of H2O2 release by the corals. H2O2 and antioxidant activity linearly increased in the water surrounding the coral over short periods of 1–2 h. Over longer periods of 5–7 h, the antioxidant activity kept increasing with time, while H2O2 concentrations were stabilized at ~ 1 μM by 2–3 h, and then gradually declined. Solving for H2O2 release, corals were found to release H2O2 at increasing rates over 2–4 h, and then slow down and stop by 5–7 h. Stirring was shown to induce the release of both H2O2 and antioxidant activity, possibly due to ventilation of the coral by the flow. Antioxidant activity was released at similar rates by bleached and non-bleached corals, suggesting that the antioxidant did not originate from the symbiotic algae. H2O2, however, was only minimally released from bleached corals, implying that the symbiotic algae are the source of the released H2O2. The observed flow-induced H2O2 release may aid corals in removing some of the internal H2O2 produced by their symbiotic algae and possibly assist in preventing coral bleaching under conditions of elevated temperature and irradiance.
Mechanism for potential strengthening of Atlantic overturning prior to collapse
Authors: Ehlert D. , Levermann A.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. The Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) carries large amounts of heat into the North Atlantic influencing climate regionally as well as globally. Paleorecords and simulations with comprehensive climate models suggest that the positive salt-advection feedback may yield a threshold behaviour of the system. That is to say that beyond a certain amount of freshwater flux into the North Atlantic, no meridional overturning circulation can be sustained. Concepts of monitoring the AMOC and identifying its vicinity to the threshold rely on the fact that the volume flux defining the AMOC will be reduced when approaching the threshold. Here we advance conceptual models that have been used in a paradigmatic way to understand the AMOC, by introducing a density-dependent parameterization for the Southern Ocean eddies. This additional degree of freedom uncovers a mechanism by which the AMOC can increase with additional freshwater flux into the North Atlantic, before it reaches the threshold and collapses: an AMOC that is mainly wind-driven will have a constant upwelling as long as the Southern Ocean winds do not change significantly. The downward transport of tracers occurs either in the northern sinking regions or through Southern Ocean eddies. If freshwater is transported, either atmospherically or via horizontal gyres, from the low- to high-latitudes, this would reduce the eddy transport and by continuity increase the northern sinking which defines the AMOC until a threshold is reached at which the AMOC cannot be sustained. If dominant in the real ocean this mechanism would have significant consequences for monitoring the AMOC.
Effects of extreme drought on agriculture soil and sustainability of different drought soil
Authors: Geng S. M. , Yan D. H. , Zhang T. X. , Weng B. S. , Zhang Z. B. , Gang W.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. Content of microbial biomass carbon was selected as indicator for identifying effects of extreme drought on agriculture soil ecosystem. Through a series of prototype observation experiments, changing tendencies of microbial biomass carbon content and the proportion of microbial biomass carbon in soil organic carbon were identified. The optimum mass water content of soil for microbial biomass carbon was 19.5% and the demarcation point of microbial biomass carbon to drought was 14.3%, which could be used to demonstrate alters and degradation of soil ecosystem as well as the irrigation requirement of crops. We evaluated sustainability of different drought soil ecosystems after experiencing rainstorm with rehabilitation. The results suggested that soil ecosystem which was interfered by moderate drought could recover and its tolerance to drought was improved, as well as its function and activity. Soil ecosystem could barely recover from severe drought and could not adapt to severe drought stress. Soil ecosystem could not restore from extreme drought within a few days, the function and structure were damaged. We came to the conclusion that mass water content of soil should kept above 10% to avoid destroying function and structure while soil ecosystem would better be watered when mass water content was lower than 14.3% in order to maintain high productivity.
Assessing accuracy of gas-driven permeability measurements: a comparative study of diverse Hassler-cell and probe permeameter devices
Authors: Filomena C. M. , Hornung J. , Stollhofen H.
Published: January 2014

Abstract. Permeability is one of the most important petrophysical parameters to describe the reservoir properties of sedimentary rocks, pertaining to problems in hydrology, geothermics, and hydrocarbon reservoir analysis. Outcrop analogue studies, well core measurements, and individual sample analysis take advantage of a variety of commercially available devices for permeability measurements. Very often, permeability data derived from different devices need to be merged within one study (e.g. outcrop minipermeametry and lab-based core plug measurements). To enhance accuracy of different gas-driven permeability measurements, device-specific aberrations need to be taken into account. The application of simple one-to-one correlations may draw the wrong picture of permeability trends. For this purpose, transform equations need to be established. This study presents a detailed comparison of permeability data derived from a selection of commonly used Hassler cells and probe permeameters. As a result of individual cross-plots, typical aberrations and transform equations are elaborated, which enable corrections for the specific permeameters. Permeability measurements of the commercially available ErgoTech gas permeameter and the TinyPerm II probe permeameter are well-comparable over the entire range of permeability, with R2 = 0.955. Aberrations are mostly identified in the permeability range < 10 mD, regarding the TinyPerm II and the minipermeameter/Hassler-cell combination at Darmstadt University, which need to be corrected and standardized. Applying standardizations which consider these aberration intervals strongly improves the comparability of permeability data sets and facilitates the combination of measurement principles. Therefore, the utilization of such correlation tests is highly recommended for all kinds of reservoir studies using integrated permeability databases.
Substrato para produção de mudas de macacaúba (Platymiscium ulei Harms) no município de Autazes, AM
Authors: Miranda José Furtado de , Batista Iza Maria Paiva , Tucci Carlos Alberto Franco , Almeida Narrubia Oliveira de , Guimarães Marcelo de Almeida
Published: January 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509812339A produção de mudas de espécies nativas com qualidade, a fim de se obter sucesso nos reflorestamentos, está muitas vezes relacionada com o nível de eficiência dos substratos utilizados, o objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar diferentes composições de substratos para produção de mudas no município de Autazes, AM. Foram testados oito tratamentos dispostos em delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições. Os tratamentos foram: esterco bovino, calagem, fosfatagem corretiva, adubação com NPK, calagem + fosfatagem corretiva, fosfatagem corretiva + adubação com NPK, calagem + adubação com NPK e calagem + fosfatagem corretiva + adubação com NPK. Após 120 dias, foram avaliadas as seguintes características: altura da parte aérea, diâmetro do colo, matéria seca das partes: aérea, raiz e total, e os teores e conteúdos de nutrientes na matéria seca da parte aérea. Os resultados permitem afirmar que todos os tratamentos proporcionaram progressos nos atributos do substrato. Essas melhorias ocasionaram maior disponibilidade de nutrientes para as plantas, os quais proporcionaram um crescimento adequado das mudas de macacaúba. Sendo que as plantas submetidas ao tratamento esterco bovino apresentaram maior absorção de nutriente e maiores taxas de crescimento em menor período de tempo. Sugerindo que este substrato é o mais indicado para a produção de mudas de macacaúba, por promover às mudas maiores taxa de crescimento e em um menor período de tempo.
Sombreamento e substratos na produção de mudas de Erythrina velutina Willd.
Authors: Santos Laércio Wanderley dos , Coelho Maria de Fatima Barbosa
Published: January 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509812341Erythrina velutina Willd. (Fabaceae) é utilizada na medicina tradicional do nordeste brasileiro por suas propriedades sudorífica, calmante, emoliente, peitoral e anestésica local. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes substratos e sombreamento na produção de mudas de Erythrina velutina. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 5 x 2 (cinco substratos e dois sombreamentos), com quatro repetições e 10 plantas na parcela. Os substratos foram arisco, arisco + esterco bovino 2:1 v/v, arisco + esterco bovino 3:1 v/v, areia + esterco bovino 2:1 v/v e areia + esterco bovino 3:1 v/v. Os sombreamentos foram pleno sol (0% de sobreamento) e 50% de sombreamento. As características avaliadas foram o diâmetro do coleto, altura, área foliar, biomassa verde e seca das raízes e da parte aérea, relação altura/diâmetro e índice de qualidade de Dickson. Não houve diferença significativa para o diâmetro entre os diferentes substratos. O ambiente a pleno sol favoreceu o diâmetro e a biomassa das raízes, enquanto a altura foi favorecida pelo ambiente sombreado. Os substratos com esterco bovino curtido em sua composição favorecem o desenvolvimento das plantas de Erythrina velutina. Mudas de maior qualidade são produzidas a pleno sol e no substrato arisco + esterco bovino curtido na proporção 2:1.
Substratos renováveis na produção de mudas de Eucalyptus benthamii
Authors: Kratz Dagma , Wendling Ivar , Nogueira Antonio Carlos , Souza Paulo Vitor Dutra de
Published: January 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509812345A necessidade premente de aumento no número de mudas plantadas anualmente, bem como a menor disponibilidade de matérias-primas tradicionais para composição de substratos têm levado à necessidade de desenvolvimento de estudos que visem à avaliação e disponibilização de novos materiais para composição de substratos, técnica e economicamente eficientes. Com base nisso, o presente estudo objetivou avaliar a viabilidade técnica da utilização de componentes renováveis a base de fibra de coco (FC), casca de arroz carbonizada (CAC) em diferentes granulometrias, biossólido (BIO) e casca de pinus semidecomposta na composição de substratos para a produção de mudas de Eucalyptus benthamii, bem como, avaliar a correlação entre as propriedades físicas e químicas dos substratos formulados com a qualidade das mudas produzidas. Para tanto, foram formulados 41 tratamentos, os quais tiveram suas propriedades físicas e químicas avaliadas, sendo a semeadura realizada em tubetes de 55 cm³. Foram avaliadas a altura da parte aérea e o diâmetro de colo a cada 30 dias, bem como, a biomassa seca da parte aérea e radicial, a facilidade de retirada do tubete e a agregação das raízes ao substrato aos 90 dias. Verificou-se que todos os materiais renováveis analisados foram adequados para a produção de mudas, no entanto o peneiramento da CAC não se justifica, quando comparado com a CAC na sua forma íntegra. Mensurações de altura e diâmetro anteriores à avaliação final não são confiáveis para predição do resultado final. O BIO e as diferentes granulometrias de CAC apresentaram baixa agregação das raízes ao substrato. Os altos níveis de salinidade, condutividade elétrica e pH não prejudicaram o crescimento das mudas. Quanto às propriedades físicas, observou-se que os substratos com maiores densidades e microporosidade proporcionaram menor agregação das raízes ao substrato e os com maior macroporosidade proporcionaram maior crescimento da parte aérea e radicial.
Concentração das exportações mundiais de produtos florestais
Authors: Coelho Junior Luiz Moreira , Rezende José Luiz Pereira de , Oliveira Antônio Donizette de
Published: January 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509812353Este trabalho analisou o grau de concentração das exportações mundiais de produtos florestais no período 1961 - 2008. Os dados utilizados estão disponíveis na Organização das Nações Unidas para Agricultura e Alimento. O grau de concentração foi determinado por meio da Razão de Concentração [CR(k)], Índice de Herfindahl-Hirschman (HHI), Índice de Entropia de Theil (E) e Índice de Gini (G). As principais conclusões foram: A participação brasileira nas exportações mundiais no agregado de produtos florestais é crescente ao longo do tempo; os setores mais significativos do agregado das exportações mundiais de produtos florestais, em ordem decrescente, foram o de celulose, madeira serrada, papel e papelão, painéis de madeira, madeira para fins industriais e energia. Segundo a classificação de Bain, a Razão de Concentração dos quatro e oito maiores exportadores de produtos florestais é moderadamente baixa; os indicadores HHI e de Entropia de Theil (E) mostram redução na concentração das exportações mundiais de produtos florestais e maior competição entre os países que comercializam tais produtos; o Índice de Gini indica que, apesar do aumento de exportadores de produtos florestais ao longo do período de análise, um número reduzido de competidores concentra frações cada vez maiores das exportações internacionais desses produtos; os índices sumários (HHI, E e G) indicaram que o aumento da competição e da concorrência não tem se traduzido em uma distribuição mais equitativa das exportações de produtos florestais, que levasse à redução das desigualdades e da concentração dos ganhos do setor; apesar da tendência decrescente dos CR(4) e CR(8), há uma elevação de G, isso porque os ganhos de escala do comércio internacional têm sido apropriado por poucos concorrentes; é recomendada cautela na análise dos índices sumários (HHI, E e G), que devem ser examinados em conjunto com os índices parciais [CR(k)] para não tirar conclusões errôneas; os países com expressiva participação na pauta de exportações, como o Brasil, devem buscar estratégias comerciais para reter as vantagens competitivas conquistadas, principalmente aquelas advindas do ganho de escala.
Relação entre o índice de avermelhamento do solo e o estoque de carbono na biomassa aérea da vegetação de cerrado
Authors: Santana Otacilio Antunes , Encinas José Imaña , Inácio Euzelina dos Santos Borges , Amorim Laerte Bezerra de , Vilaverde João Luiz Jardim
Published: January 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509812362A variação da cor do solo é uma resposta relacionada principalmente a sua composição física, química, biológica e mineralógica. O sistema de cores de Munsell é baseado na cor de forma objetiva, em que, através dela é possível avaliar diversos fatores do solo, como a presença de óxidos de ferro, granulometria e material orgânico. O objetivo do trabalho foi realizar uma relação e identificação entre o índice de avermelhamento (IAV) com o estoque de carbono presente na parte aérea da vegetação de Cerrado. O trabalho foi realizado em sete municípios do Oeste Baiano, em áreas nativas de Cerrado, nas fitofisionomias: Floresta de Galeria, Cerradão, Cerrado stricto sensu e Campo Sujo. A determinação da cor foi efetuada no campo em amostras de solo úmido, empregando-se a caderneta de Munsell. A partir da avaliação da matiz, valor e croma, foi calculado o índice de avermelhamento (IAV). A estimativa do estoque de carbono acima do solo foi realizada a partir dos compartimentos: tronco e galhos, tanto das árvores vivas quanto árvores mortas, através de uma equação alométrica desenvolvida para o Cerrado. O índice de avermelhamento da cor do solo na camada de 0,00 a 0,20 m possui uma relação diretamente proporcional e significativa com o estoque de carbono da biomassa aérea da vegetação de Cerrado, podendo ser extrapolado o cálculo do estoque de carbono (EC) pelo valor do índice de avermelhamento (IAV) do solo pela equação [EC = 0,4936 · IAV + 4,2286 (-1,5%)]. A praticidade pela coleta dos dados de IAV, através da carta de Munsell e a confiabilidade do ajuste, dado pelo erro residual menor do que 5%, faz com que esta relação possa ser utilizada para fins acadêmicos e coorporativos em estimação dos estoques de carbono para aplicação em manejos florestais e ambientais. A variação de EC entre as fitofisionomias estudadas faz-se, principalmente, pela distinta densidade de indivíduos arbóreos por hectare. A variação do IAV nas áreas estudadas é devido à matéria orgânica acumulada na superfície do solo, ao conteúdo mineral e à capacidade de drenagem, segundo inferências da literatura, refletindo assim nas distintas cores do solo nas fitofisionomias estudadas.
Diversidade, parâmetros estruturais e produtos florestais não madeireiros na reserva florestal de Bonepoupa (Douala, Camarões)
Authors: Kamdem Jean Paul , Priso Jules Richard , Ndongo Din
Published: January 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509812363A fim de chegar a uma utilização sustentável dos ecossistemas florestais na República dos Camarões, a diversidade vegetal tem sido amostrada com intuito de ressaltar o potencial das plantas; e os parâmetros estruturais que foram estudados na reserva florestal de Bonepoupa. O levantamento foi realizado pelo método de amostragem aleatória, onde foram plotadas dez parcelas de 200 m2, distanciadas por uma linha feita com um “topofil” colocado no centro do campo com cordas de 5 m cada uma. Além disso, noventa pessoas foram entrevistadas com o objetivo de conhecer o potencial de uso das espécies nessa região. No total foram amostrados 172 indivíduos com diâmetro a altura do peito (DAP) ≥ 5 cm, distribuídos em 27 espécies, 25 gêneros e 18 famílias. Determinou-se o coeficiente de abundância-dominância. O índice de diversidade de Shannon (H’) foi H’1 = 4,17 ± 0,45 com H’1max = 4,75 e a equabilidade foi R1 = 0.88. Levando em consideração as espécies herbáceas, o H’ determinado pelo coeficiente de abundância-dominância foi H’2 = 4,74 ± 0,56 com H’2 max = 5,70 e a equabilidade foi R1 = 0,83. A área basal total foi 19,69 m2/ha e a densidade foi 860 indivíduos/ha. Analisando-se os resultados obtidos, pôde-se concluir que as herbáceas modificaram significativamente o valor do índice de diversidade e também que a reserva florestal de Bonepoupa está passando por um problema de conservação por falta de gestão adequada. O conhecimento dos produtos florestais não madeireiros, bem como seus usos alimentares e medicinais pela população local, poderia ser útil para a gestão sustentável dos recursos nesta reserva florestal.
Los múltiples territorios del periodismo político
Authors: Doménech Fabregat Hugo
Published: January 2014

Reseña para la sección TribunaCASERO-RIPOLLÉS, Andreu (ed.) (2012).Periodismo político en España: concepciones, tensiones y elecciones.Tenerife: SLCS.
Periodismo y democracia en el entorno digital: hacia formas renovadas y ampliadas de la comunicación
Authors: Ramos del Cano Fátima , Álvaro Francesc-Marc
Published: January 2014

Introducción a la sección informe sobre Periodismo y democracia en el entorno digital.
The ambiguity of citizen journalism. How new forms of information consumption are redefining journalism
Authors: Sorrentino Carlo
Published: January 2014

The digital technology advances in the last decades and the rising will of the audience to participate in the news field explain the development of the phenomenon known as citizen journalism. Up to now -despite the generalization of the use of this term- it is a very ambiguous concept where professional and civic mix together in an imprecise way. This paper has a double aim: review the basis of this informative tendency and propose a more contextualized theoretical interpretation for it. From the analysis of the current scientific debate, this paper contributes with a rereading of the concept of citizen journalism in professional and social terms. Facing the risk of the overcome or bannalization of the journalistic activiy, this phenomenon is understood as an opportunity to reinforce its professional model and to defend its functions as a informative filter for quality and as the main promoter of the democratic debate.