bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stealing Bread and Sleeping Beneath Bridges – Indirect Discrimination as Disadvantageous Equal Treatment
Authors: Thomsen Frej Klem
Published: June 2015

The article analyses the concept of indirect discrimination, arguing first that existing conceptualizations are unsatisfactory and second that it is best understood as equal treatment that is disadvantageous to the discriminatees because of their group membership. I explore four ways of further refining the definition, arguing that only an added condition of moral wrongness is at once plausible and helpful, but that it entails a number of new problems that may outweigh its benefits. Finally, I suggest that the moral wrongness of indirect discrimination is best accounted for in terms of the harm it does to discriminatees and sketch three ways in which it may do so. I conclude that the analysis provides both a clearer understanding of the concept of indirect discrimination as well as indirect support for a harm-based account of the wrongness of discrimination, while suggesting that our moral obligations qua non-discrimination may be more extensive than is frequently assumed.
Multi-organizational Alliances and Policy Change: Understanding the Mobilization and Impact of Grassroots Coalitions
Authors: Post Margaret A.
Published: June 2015

Grassroots coalitions are one mechanism by which marginalized groups access the policy arena. Such alliances integrate group interests in demand making and can influence the policy process through collective action. Understanding what factors lead to formation, sustainability, and success can explain how and why alliances function as political intermediaries. This paper features one national social change organization that collaborates with local grassroots groups working on three federal policy priorities: immigration, retirement security, and economic justice. It investigates what organizational structures and processes increase the access of local organizations to policymakers through multi-organizational alliances of 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations. Based on field observations and 58 interviews, the case analysis focuses on inter-organizational partnerships, intra-organizational development, and how these organizational arrangements facilitate grassroots engagement in the policy process. Factors found to impact the strength of alliances include alignment of interests and strategies; an ability to leverage heterogeneous relationships and resources; mutuality, trust, and respect in partnership; political capacity; and “bottom-up” pathways to participation for grassroots constituencies. These findings are central to understanding the structure, function, and political effectiveness of contemporary national-to-local partnerships.
ENDOCRINOLOGY AND ADOLESCENCE: Osteoporosis in children: diagnosis and management
Authors: Saraff Vrinda , Högler Wolfgang
Published: June 2015

Osteoporosis in children can be primary or secondary due to chronic disease. Awareness among paediatricians is vital to identify patients at risk of developing osteoporosis. Previous fractures and backaches are clinical predictors, and low cortical thickness and low bone density are radiological predictors of fractures. Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a rare disease and should be managed in tertiary paediatric units with the necessary multidisciplinary expertise. Modern OI management focuses on functional outcomes rather than just improving bone mineral density. While therapy for OI has improved tremendously over the last few decades, this chronic genetic condition has some unpreventable, poorly treatable and disabling complications. In children at risk of secondary osteoporosis, a high degree of suspicion needs to be exercised. In affected children, further weakening of bone should be avoided by minimising exposure to osteotoxic medication and optimising nutrition including calcium and vitamin D. Early intervention is paramount. However, it is important to identify patient groups in whom spontaneous vertebral reshaping and resolution of symptoms occur to avoid unnecessary treatment. Bisphosphonate therapy remains the pharmacological treatment of choice in both primary and secondary osteoporosis in children, despite limited evidence for its use in the latter. The duration and intensity of treatment remain a concern for long-term safety. Various new potent antiresorptive agents are being studied, but more urgently required are studies using anabolic medications that stimulate bone formation. More research is required to bridge the gaps in the evidence for management of paediatric osteoporosis.
60 YEARS OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY: The hypothalamo-GH axis: the past 60 years
Authors: Murray P G , Higham C E , Clayton P E
Published: June 2015

At the time of the publication of Geoffrey Harris's monograph on ‘Neural control of the pituitary gland’ 60 years ago, the pituitary was recognised to produce a growth factor, and extracts administered to children with hypopituitarism could accelerate growth. Since then our understanding of the neuroendocrinology of the GH axis has included identification of the key central components of the GH axis: GH-releasing hormone and somatostatin (SST) in the 1970s and 1980s and ghrelin in the 1990s. Characterisation of the physiological control of the axis was significantly advanced by frequent blood sampling studies in the 1980s and 1990s; the pulsatile pattern of GH secretion and the factors that influenced the frequency and amplitude of the pulses have been defined. Over the same time, spontaneously occurring and targeted mutations in the GH axis in rodents combined with the recognition of genetic causes of familial hypopituitarism demonstrated the key factors controlling pituitary development. As the understanding of the control of GH secretion advanced, developments of treatments for GH axis disorders have evolved. Administration of pituitary-derived human GH was followed by the introduction of recombinant human GH in the 1980s, and, more recently, by long-acting GH preparations. For GH excess disorders, dopamine agonists were used first followed by SST analogues, and in 2005 the GH receptor blocker pegvisomant was introduced. This review will cover the evolution of these discoveries and build a picture of our current understanding of the hypothalamo-GH axis.
Quinoa as a promising pseudocereal crop for Ukraine
Authors: Mosyakin S. , Schwartau V.
Published: June 2015

The article provides an assessment of perspectives of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa L.) cultivation in Ukraine, based on international experience and original fi eld tests, with the aim of ensuring further development and diversifi cation of crop production in Ukraine and expanding modern crop rotation systems. The data on the taxonomic position of quinoa and its relationships with other species of the genus Chenopodium and the history of species domestication are provided. Quinoa is a crop of high nutritional value and can be used in gluten-free diets, which are important components of human ration. The results of test cultivation of quinoa in 2013–2014 under conditions of the experimental agricultural farm of the Institute of Plant Physiology and Genetics, Na- tional Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, located in Vasylkiv District (rayon) of Kyiv Region (oblast), are pro- vided. It is concluded that quinoa is a promising crop for domestic grain producers. The introduction of quinoa into crop rotation systems can
improve ecological conditions of agroecosystems and promote restoration of soil fertility in the country without diminishing the revenues of farmers.
The importance of agroecology in the process of well-balanced agrosphere formation
Authors: Furdуchko O. , Demyanуuk O.
Published: June 2015

Contemporary realities demonstrate actual features of the environmental crisis in agrosphere which is consid- ered to be both the result of technological impact on its components, and also sharp decline of public morals and the lack of foresight regarding further consequences of the collision of the long-established lifestyle. In this respect the foreground of overcoming environmental problems in the agrarian sphere is taken by the main trends in agroecology. The article discloses the signifi cance of agroecology as a fundamental of well-balanced agrosphere formation, environmental protection, rational use and renewal of natural resources and ensuring ecological safety. It is substantiated that in current complicated environmental and economic conditions agro- ecology should defi ne the development strategy of agricultural production with the obligatory account of en- vironmental, social and economic factors. The place of agroecology in the system of agrarian sciences and a number of priority tasks of
agroecology at the current stage of agricultural science development and production in Ukraine are defi ned. The main aim of agroecology is to ensure sustainable production of quality and safe products, storage and renewal of natural resource potential of the agricultural sector, which means ecological safety of all branches of agricultural production with their economic feasibility. Agrosphere management calls for urgent development of new scientifi cally grounded approaches, based on the main principles of the Sus- tainable Development Concept. Thoughtful management of environmental processes in agrosphere, balanced needs of economic development and opportunities for the renewal of natural resources, comprehensive realiza- tion of environmental measures and technologies in АIC are the basis of the sustainable development of the country, life duration, strong health and well-being of present and future generations.
Influence of humus acids on mobility and biological availability of iron, zinc and copper
Authors: Fateev A. , Semenov D. , Smirnova K. , Shemet A.
Published: June 2015

Soil organic matter is known as an important condition for the mobility of trace elements in soils, their geo- chemical migration and availability to plants. However, various components of soil organic matter have differ- ent effect on these processes due to their signifi cant differences in structure and properties.
Aim. To establish the role of humic and fulvic acids in the process of formation of microelement mobility in soils and their accu- mulation in plants.
Methods. A model experiment with sand culture was used to investigate the release of trace elements from preparations of humic and fulvic acids and their uptake by oat plants.
Results. It was found that among biologically needed elements humic acids are enriched with iron, fulvic acids – with zinc, and copper distribution between these two groups of substances may be characterized as even. These elements have un- equal binding power with components of soil organic matter, as evidenced by their release into the cultivation medium and accumulation in plants. In the composition of fulvic acids zink has the most mobility – up to 95 % of this element is in the form, accessible for plants; the lowest mobility was demonstrated by copper in the composition with humic acids, for which no signifi cant changes in the concentration of mobile forms in the substrate and in the introduction to the test culture were registered. Despite signifi cantly higher iron content in humic acids, the application of fulvic acids in the cultivation medium provides a greater increase in the con- centration of mobile forms of this element.
Conclusions. The results confi rm the important role of organic sub- stances of fulvic nature in the formation of zinc and iron mobility in the soil and their accumulation in plants.
All Styles All Stars: Jazz funk burn
Authors: Luna Jared Jonathan
Published: June 2015

As a cultural movement with a global reach, hip-hop and its assimilation outside America draws discourse from globalised perspectives. At the same time, African-American vernacular dances such as breaking, krumping, locking, vogue among others, often classified under hip-hop or street dance, have received scholarly attention in the past few years. This project is concerned with how hip-hop and street dance freestyle improvisations are shaped and localized in a post-American-colonial setting. Based on a two-month fieldwork in Manila, Philippines, this research analyzes the All Styles Battle as a convergence of various assimilated movement systems, and local dance practice. The methods implemented in gathering data include formal and informal interviews, and participant observation. This paper draws out evidences of the recurring negotiations between practicing pure versus hybridized versions of hip-hop and street dance genres with the help of movement analysis. By incorporating elements such as ‘Burns’, dancers in Manila are able to adapt modified versions of street dance genres to activities such as battling in street dance. As such, this research also touches on pertinent issues within hip-hop discourse as it aims for a deeper understanding of cultural production, assimilation, authenticity and intangible cultural heritage.
Zur Semiotik Einiger Musikinstrumente (Vorläufige Problemstellung)
Authors: Voigt Vilmos
Published: June 2015

In spite of the promising recent development of comparative musicology (also including the study of musical instruments) and of semiotics (also including musical semiotics), there is no summarizing attempt to describe and analyze the “signs on musical instruments” phenomena, i.e. carved or painted parts of the instruments. The zoomorphic and anthropomorphic construction and forms of musical instruments, and of their parts, is a wide-ranging field of study. The paper shows some examples of ancient and folk music instruments, by using the common (Peircian) terminology in describing their signs in the proper sense of the word. Animal shells used as bodies of instruments, snake- and dragon-formed instruments, amorous heads on string instruments, human heads and devilish forms of bagpipes, paintings on piano’s wooden cases, emblems or coats of arms of the builders of the instruments — just there are some cases of signs of musical instruments. There are further allusions to musical signs as well.
The researcher’s role in the research process. Reflections and experiences of an ethnologist
Authors: Gustavsson Anders
Published: June 2015

In this paper I present my reflections and experiences from decades of ethnological research until now. Auto-ethnography means that researchers use their personal experiences in a self-reflexive way in the ethnographic research process both regarding data collection and analysis. The aim is that researchers in this way may better understand and interpret other people and cultures which they study in the field. The personal background plays a role, both in what you choose to study and what you deliberately avoid to investigate. You can also problematize the researcher’s gender. The ethical aspects of research become important so that the scholars will not harm the people being studied. There are restrictions of the researcher’s subjectivity.
The role of Judaism in the Jewish community after the Holocaust
Authors: Salner Peter
Published: June 2015

Through conflicts of opinions inside the Bratislava Jewish religious community, the author monitors changed relations toward Judaism after the Holocaust.

The current form of the community was due to Regulation 231-1945 concerning “the arrangement of the conditions of the Jewish faith members in Slovakia”. This resulted in religious, economic, and organizational centralization.

After the 1968 occupation, those who stayed behind in Bratislava concluded that due to the emigration of the young and middle generations, the community lost its future and under the newly established conditions it was losing its past too. The Velvet revolution helped to overcome passivity existing until then. An informal gathering called Jewish forum helped to build and revive the Jewish identity. The status of the present-day Judaism can be illustrated by the fact that 36.6 percent of funerals in the course of 2001–2013 were done by cremation prohibited in Orthodox Judaism. It has been a manifestation of solidarity with the “burials” of those killed in concentration camps; but it is also a kind of revolt against God who did not prevent the Shoa.

Today both individuals and families create their own model based on the traditions that they choose for themselves. Practicing such customs does not follow from Judaism, but it is an expression of one’s affiliation with the community and its traditions.
Dance perspectives on drum language: A Yoruba example
Authors: Chanta-Martin Natasa
Published: June 2015

Among the Yoruba people of southwest Nigeria, dancers have the ability to relate not only to music and rhythm, but also to the Yoruba tonal language. This is due to the fact that instruments being played during a dance event, once they are manipulated by the drummer, can follow the Yoruba language’s tonality. Therefore, the so-called talking drums have the ability to articulate proverbs, poems, stories. The dancers’ representations or interpretations of what the drums are saying create different artistic and cognitive dimensions during the dancing. When does a dancer follow only the rhythms of the drums and when does he or she have meaning in his/her gestures? What happens when the meanings derive from proverbial language? And moreover, what happens with the newest Yoruba dance generation which is said to have neglected their indigenous language for English? Going beyond choreomusical relationships, improvising, mimicking, interpreting and verbalising the content of the tonal percussions are some dimensions of Yoruba dance, which derive from exploring the personal dance experiences of a community of thought in Yorubaland.
Modern Shi’i Islam and the narrative of social power: The views of Muhammad Husayn Fadlallah
Authors: Speidl Bianka
Published: June 2015

In modern Shi’i Islam, power constitutes a major concern for thinkers and movements alike. Above all, Muham mad Husayn Fadlallah stands as the most systematic Shi’i thinker who produced an Islamic theory of power. The present article analyses Fadlallah’s concept of social power. In Islam and the Logic of Power (al-Islam wa-mantiq al-quwwa), he emphasised the importance of social solidarity, justice, and the obligation of “commanding right and forbidding wrong” as a means to create the ideal society. For him, this social model has are ciprocal relation to social power. Muhammad Husayn Fadlallah tells the tale of two societies: the weak and the strong, arguing that beliefs, unity and values determine the power of a community. He claims that the strong society is best illustrated by the first Islamic community. He confronts it with the weak society which lacks unity and solidarity — echoing to a great extent contemporary Lebanon. Fadlallah’s social theory — embedded in his theology of power — transforms spiritual power into a collective deployment of action. He draws on a wide range of elements (Sunni, Shi’i and Marxist) to create a coherent system of power in which social power is a mediator between the ideology of power and its political manifestation.
The role of dance and what it teaches about the transcendence in possession and efficacy among the Brekete Gatsi cult
Authors: Okyere Senyo
Published: June 2015

This research was conducted on the Brekete Gatsi cult in Ghana to investigate the use of the body in action during the dance in the ritual context. Brekete is a possession cult found among the Ewe’s of the Volta Region-Ghana. Devotees in this cult worship the deities Kunde and Ablewa on every Friday, Sunday and during ceremonial days. They also propitiate other pantheons who are children of Kunde and Ablewa. During ritual moments they call on these deities, who manifest themselves by embodying trained mediums to enter into an act of communion with the religious community. This state of embodiment is manipulated by rhythms paralleled with ritual sacrifices and dance which the community believes attains efficacy through possession.

Therefore, this article will discuss the role of two dances which are performed during the ritual of the cult. Both dances occur during the same ritual events but may be distinguished by the fact that one of them is accompanied by possession and the other is not. I have therefore labelled them as Wu (Dance) and Trɔwo le ewu du (deities are dancing). It is through the analysis of these dances that it is possible for the reader to understand the relationship between the mundane world and the supernatural world of the people who perform in this cult. The methodology used has been that of classical anthropological research approach and more particularly of participant observation of events of which I had no prior knowledge due to my Christian urban upbringing. I wish to highlight the exoticism of the experience for a researcher who, despite his own upbringing, tackled a different religious phenomenon irrespective of his social and religious affiliations.

Thus, with my focus on the bodily actions and how they are used to gain access into the celestial world, I identify dance as an instrument and a medium by which the physical evidence of possession comes about. To that effect, and through the phenomenon that religious possession dance is laden with complexities and meaning, this article will hereby develop how the ritual processes and the differences between the movement of “Wu and Trɔwo le ewu du” teaches us about the ritual efficacy of possession dance. I argue here that both possession dance and the dance without possession (i) are contra-kinetically constructed, (ii) have movement sequences employing sagittal symmetrical principles, and (iii) although they have limited motifs of the steps and arm gesture, the possession dance has many variations.

Finally, the Wu serves as a prelude to Trɔ di amedzi (deity has embodied or mounted its medium) and Trɔwo le ewu du, which has the concept of possession among the Brekete Gatsi cult based on the philosophy of repetitive motif characterised by intense energy, rhythmic tempo and musicality (multidi-mensional, accentuation and phrasing) from the brekete drum.
The resilience of traditional dance as a repository of cultural heritage: The case of Ingoma of Malawi
Authors: Maluwaya McDonald J.
Published: June 2015

This paper explores how Ingoma, a dance of the Ngoni of Malawi can be described as an identity marker and a cultural text of the Ngoni. The Ngoni constitute one of the nine major ethnic groups of Malawi. Unlike the other eight ethnic groups, however, the Ngonido do not have a language with which they are identified and use for everyday communication. This is largely due to socio-cultural and political influences that they experienced in the areas they settled. Notwithstanding this aspect of their identity, their dance Ingoma has stood the test of time and continues to be transmitted from one generation to another. Since language is key to the transmission of dance, the paper also examines the implications of transmitting dance in other people’s language. The paper focuses on three main groups of the Ngoni, namely, the M’mbelwaJere found in the north, the MpezeniJere found in the west and the GomaniMaseko in the centre. The Ingoma performances by groups from each of these areas were investigated.
Dancing across gender boundaries. An exploration on the process of gender identity construction through the Indian classical dance Bharatanatyam
Authors: Azzarelli Sara
Published: June 2015

Gender dynamics play an essential role within the Indian classic dance Bharatanatyam. In the narrative component of this choreutic form, the Abhinaya, dancers are demanded to enact both male and female roles, using codified series of bodily attitudes and gestures. These acts of impersonation can sometimes become a mean for them to go beyond their “actual” gender and explore different attitudes and feelings. My research investigates what this process could mean for those social actors who place themselves out of the mainstream dichotomy male man/female woman. Assuming the Constructivist and anti-Essentialist perspective, according to which gender and sexuality are not naturally fixed qualities, but changeable and unstable cultural constructs, I attempt to explore the place Abhinaya could have in this process of self-shaping for homosexual, bisexual and transgender dancers. This essay, basing on the ethnographic fieldwork I conducted during summer 2013 in Chennai (Tamil Nadu, India) with a LGBT group of dancers, explores individual modalities of crossing gender boundaries through Bharatanatyam.
Effective Mg:Ag / MoO3 recombination zone for tandem organic photovoltaic devices
Authors: Jeong A. R. , Wiesner S. , Fengler S. , Lux-Steiner M. Ch. , Rusu M.
Published: June 2015

We demonstrate an effective recombination zone consisting of Mg:Ag (1:3) alloy and MoO3 layers with 0.8 nm and 3 nm respectively for application in tandem organic photovoltaic devices based on zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) donor and fullerene C60 acceptor. The Mg:Ag layer ensures an optimum electron selectivity, while MoO3 layer effectively selects holes. A conversion efficiency of 2.2% has been achieved under an illumination of 100 mW/cm2 at room temperature. The open circuit voltage of 810 mV is close to the sum of the open circuit voltages of the constituent single cells. The recombination Mg:Ag-MoO3 layer system is investigated with regard to the requirements of high optical transparency, work function compatibility, and facilitation of light absorption. The respective characterizations were carried out by UV-Visible spectroscopy, Kelvin probe force microscopy in ultrahigh vacuum, current-voltage and external quantum efficiency methods.
Conjugated porous Polymers as Highly Efficient Heterogeneous Visible Light Photocatalyst
Authors: Wang Zi Jun , Landfester Katharina , Zhang Kai A. I.
Published: June 2015

Π-conjugated porous polymers with hierarchical pore structures were synthesized via high internal phase emulsion polymerization (polyHIPE) technique. The polymers could be used as heterogeneous photocatalysts for highly selective oxidation of organic sulfides into sulfoxides and the free radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) under visible light irradiation.
Dual approach to averaged values of functions: A form for weighting coefficient
Authors: Anh N. D.
Published: June 2015

Averaged values play major roles in the study of dynamic processes. The use of those values allows transforming varying processes to some constant characteristics that are much easier to be investigated. In order to extend the use of averaged values one may apply the dual approach which suggests a consideration of two different aspects of a problem in question. In this short communication the main idea of the dual conception is further extended to suggest a new form for weighting coefficient and then a new averaged value of functions. This new averaged value depends on the parameter \(s\) and contains the classical averaged value when \(s=0\). In the example of Duffing oscillator it is shown that the parameter \(s\) can be chosen as \(s=n/(2\pi)\) and for \(n=4\) one gets the solution that is much accurate than the conventional one obtained by the classical criterion of equivalent linearization.
Taylor's Series and Dispersion Relation Analyses of the Vector Pion Form Factor and their Comparison with Perturbative and Non Perturbative Calculations
Authors: Tran Truong Nguyen
Published: June 2015

The first three coefficients of the Taylor's series expansion of the vevtor pion form factor as a function of the momentum transfer are evaluated using the experimental data on the pion form factor and the P-wave \(\pi\pi\) phase shifts. The real part of the form factor as a function of energy is also calculated by dispersion relation. Comparisons there results with Chiral Perturbation Theory and unitarized models are given.
Simulation for Neutron Transport in PWR Reactor Moderator and Evaluation for Proper Thickness of Light Water Reflector
Authors: Khai Nguyen Tuan , Vuong Phan Quoc
Published: June 2015

Monte Carlo calculation method can be used for resolving particle transport in matter, and particularly the transport of neutrons in environment of reactor core. The method has become more efficiently because of high accuracy of updated nuclear data and fast development of advanced super-computing system. In this work, we would like to present calculations for kinematical characteristics of neutron transport in a typical configuration of the pressurized water reactor (PWR) fuel assembly based on the Monte-Carlo simulation method. We concentrate in two main results: (1) neutron energy spectrum at fuel rod and (2) optimal thickness of light water reflector.
Development of a fluorescence correlation spectroscopy instrument and its application in sizing quantum dot nanoparticles
Authors: Bao Nguyen Thi Thanh , Trung Dinh Van
Published: June 2015

Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy is a relatively new technique to measure and quantify the statistical fluctuations of the fluorescence signal from the measurement volume. Combining with sensitive detection method and confocal microscopy, the FCS technique has become a powerful tool in studying the dynamic properties of nanoparticles at single particle level. In this paper we present the construction of a highly sensitive FCS instrument and the measurement results from a sample of semiconductor quantum dots. We provide the analysis procedure for determining the hydrodynamic radius of the quantum dots and compare the results with that obtained directly from electron microscope imaging. The good agreement indicates the reliability of the FCS technique and open the way for further applications of this technique in studying nanoparticles.
Isotopic niches of sympatric native and exotic fish species in a Neotropical floodplain
Authors: Philippsen Juliana S. , Hauser Marília , Benedito Evanilde
Published: June 2015

This study investigated the isotopic niches of two fish species, one exotic and one native. It was hypothesized that these species would show little or no isotopic niche overlap. This hypothesis was tested with the isotopic niche concept and the trophic Layman's metrics. A considerable isotopic niche overlap was observed between the species, mainly for the exotic that showed the greater percentage of overlapping, indicating an interspecific competition for food resources. Layman's metrics also showed this species probably exploits a more specific array of food resources when compared with the native species. The native species probably has the ability to exploit a wider array of resources, highlighted by the higher values given for the Layman's metrics. The juveniles and adults of native species showed minor overlapping between the isotopic niches. This indicates that they have probably adopted different foraging strategies, minimizing intraspecific competition. Evidences that the exotic species explores a narrower range of resources and that the native species has a greater isotopic niche and possibly suffer less intraspecific competition, indicates that the native species can tolerate the presence of the exotic species and promote survival and maintenance of its population even under possible competition effects imposed by the exotic species.
In vitro growth-inhibitory effect of Brazilian plants extracts against Paenibacillus larvae and toxicity in bees
Authors: Piana Mariana , Brum Thiele F. de , Boligon Aline A. , Alves Camilla F.S. , Freitas Robson B. de , Nunes Letícia T. , Mossmann Natalia J. , Janovik Vanessa , Jesus Roberta S. , Vaucher Rodrigo A. , Santos Roberto C.V. , Athayde Margareth L.
Published: June 2015

American foulbrood (AFB) is a serious worldwide spreading disease in bees caused by Paenibacillus larvae. Plants extracts are known to decrease or inhibit the growth of these bacteria. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Calendula. officinalis, Cariniana domestica, and Nasturtium officinale extracts against the P. larvae and to evaluate the toxicity of the extracts in bees. In vitro activity against P. larvae of the extracts was evaluated by micro dilution method and the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were also determined. The concentrations used in the toxicity test were established based on the MIC values and by the spraying application method. The P. larvae was susceptible to the evaluated crude extract of C. officinalis and N. officinale. To C. domestica, only the ethyl acetate (EtAc) fraction and n-butanol (BuOH) fractions had activity against P. larvae. Toxicity analysis in bees showed no toxicity for N. officinale crude extract and for C. domestica BuOH fraction during 15 days of treatment, however, some deaths of bees occurred during the first three days of treatment with C. officinalis and C. domestica EtAc fraction. The results with these species were firstly described and showed that N. officinale crude extract and C. domestica BuOH fraction both presented not toxic effects in the concentration tested by the spraying application method, and can be a useful alternative for treatment or prevention of AFB.
Competition between rice (Oryza sativa L.) and (barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv.) as affected by methanol foliar application
Authors: Rezaeieh Alireza D. , Aminpanah Hashem , Sadeghi Seyed M.
Published: June 2015

Pot experiment was conducted in Iran, to evaluate the effect of methanol on competition between rice (Oryza sativa) and barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli). The experiment was conducted as a randomized complete block design with a factorial treatment arrangement and three replicates. Factors were two aqueous methanol foliar applications (0, and 14% v/v) and five rice: barnyardgrass ratios (100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:6, and 0:100). Replacement series diagrams for aboveground dry weight illustrated that 'Shiroudi' was more competitive than barnyardgrass as averaged across methanol foliar applications. When methanol was not sprayed, the lines for 'Shiroudi' and barnyardgrass intersected at 75:25 rice: barnyardgrass ratio, but when methanol was sprayed at 14% v/v, the lines for 'Shiroudi' and barnyardgrass intersect at the left of the 75:25 rice: barnyardgrass mixture proportion. These indicate that methanol application reduced competitive ability of 'Shiroudi' against barnyardgrass for aboveground biomass accumulation. At the same time, Methanol foliar application significantly reduced the relative crowding coefficient of 'Shiroudi' while simultaneously it significantly increased the relative crowding coefficient of barnyard grass. This indicates that methanol foliar application reduced the competitive ability of 'Shiroudi' against barnyardgrass for shoot biomass accumulation. This experiment illustrated that foliar spray of aqueous methanol can not be recommended for rice under weedy conditions .
Effects of cigarette smoke condensate on the production and characterization of exopolysaccharides by Bifidobacterium
Authors: Hu Jinqiang , Wei Tao , Sun Siwen , Zhao Aijing , Xu Chunping
Published: June 2015

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of cigarette smoke on the production and characterization of exopolysaccharides (EPSs) produced by Bifidobacterium. Cigarettes of Shanhua brand (nicotine: 1.1 mg, tar: 11 mg) were utilized to prepare a cigarette smoke condensate (CSC). The standard strain of Bifidobacterium animalis was cultured in MRS media under anaerobic addition of CSC. The results showed that CSC significantly decreased the growth of B. animalis as well as EPSs and acetic acid production. Furthermore, two EPSs fractions (Fr-I and Fr-II) were isolated and purified for chemical and molecular determination. By comparison with control, CSC was found to be of great impact on EPSs carbohydrate composition. The molecular weight mass of Fr-I changed from 3.33×105 g/mol (without CSC) to 2.99×105 (with CSC). In conclusion, in vitro studies revealed that CSC was directly able to affect the production of metabolites for B. animalis, which could be an essential factor in certain pathological disorders.
FORMAÇÕES FLORESTAIS DE RESTINGA E RELAÇÕES ECOLÓGICAS COM LIANAS
Authors: Quaresma Adriano Costa , Jardim Mário Augusto Gonçalves
Published: June 2015

Objetivou-se conhecer a composição florística das lianas em duas formações florestais do litoral amazônico paraense. O estudo foi realizado na APA Algodoal-Maiandeua, no Município de Maracanã, Pará, onde foram demarcadas duas parcelas de 50 x 50 m na floresta seca e duas parcelas na floresta inundável. Para análise da composição, riqueza e diversidade, foram identificadas e quantificadas todas as espécies, enquanto para verificar a diferença entre as comunidades de trepadeiras foram sorteadas aleatoriamente 80 árvores-suporte em cada formação florestal e utilizada uma análise de MDS. A diversidade foi verificada pelos índices de Shannon-Weaver (H’) e o inverso, pelo índice de Simpson (1/D). Nas duas formações foram registrados 177 indivíduos, em 15 famílias, 21 gêneros e 27 espécies. Dilleniaceae foi a família com o maior número de espécies e Smilax syphilitica Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd. e Odontadenia nitida (Vahl) Müll. Arg., com o maior número de indivíduos na floresta seca e na floresta inundável, respectivamente. A análise de MDS não separou as florestas de acordo com a composição florística das lianas. A diversidade na floresta inundável foi de H’ = 1,08 e 1/D = 8,3 e na floresta seca, de H’ = 0,98 e 1/D = 7,2. As formações florestais analisadas não apresentaram diferenças significativas quanto à diversidade, riqueza e composição de lianas.
DENDROCRONOLOGIA DE ÁRVORES DE Schizolobium parahyba(Vell.) S. F. Blake DE OCORRÊNCIA NA REBIO DE TINGUÁ-RJ
Authors: Latorraca João Vicente de Figueiredo , Souza Milene Teixeira de , Silva Leonardo Davi Silveira Augusto Baptista da , Ramos Letícia Maria Alves
Published: June 2015

O Schizolobium parahyba (Vell.) Blake, popularmente conhecido por “guapuruvu”, apresenta anéis de crescimento distintos, evidenciados por maior espessamento de suas paredes no lenho tardio e pela presença de parênquima em faixa marginal. Neste contexto, o objetivo deste estudo foi construir a cronologia dos anéis de crescimento de árvores de S. parahyba de ocorrência na ReBio de Tinguá, RJ, visando gerar conhecimento sobre a dinâmica de crescimento da espécie, bem como sobre a sensibilidade da formação dos anéis de crescimento por fatores climáticos. Das 30 árvores selecionadas foram coletadas quatro amostras radiais do tronco, utilizando-se uma sonda Pressler. As amostras passaram por polimento mecânico para melhor visualização dos anéis de crescimento e posterior delimitação e mensuração da largura deles. Para verificar a sincronização da largura dos anéis de crescimento e gerar uma série mestra da cronologia para a espécie, foi utilizado o programa estatístico COFECHA. A espécie apresenta ótimo potencial dendrocronológico, confirmado por elevada correlação da largura dos anéis de crescimento dentre e entre árvores. Além disso, exibe elevado coeficiente de sensibilidade média, que demonstra resposta às variações ambientais. O crescimento da espécie é correlacionado com a precipitação na estação seca.
La historia intelectual en México y sus conexiones
Authors: Toscano Verónica Zárate
Published: June 2015

Se presenta el itinerario seguido por la historia intelectual en México como herramienta teórica para el análisis de la realidad mexicana y también latinoamericana. Tomando como base las propuestas teóricas europeas y norteamericanas, se destaca la aplicación del llamado giro lingüístico que la ha dotado de características particulares. Asimismo, se mencionan algunas propuestas de otras escuelas de pensamiento que comparten ciertos rasgos de la historia intelectual y que bien podrían considerarse parte de esta escuela historiográfica. Se destaca el desarrollo de propuestas en varias instituciones mexicanas a través de seminarios, publicaciones y otros medios.
Índios e negros nos sertões das minas: Contatos e identidades
Authors: Mano Marcel
Published: June 2015

O artigo busca resgatar parte da ocupação indígena e quilombola dos sertões das minas no segundo e terceiro quartos do século XVIII, com vistas a um mapeamento dos encontros e intersecções culturais entre esses dois coletivos. Com base na perspectiva antropológica da alteridade é realizada a análise de uma documentação histórica disponível para os atuais oeste de Minas Gerais, Triângulo Mineiro e sul de Goiás, que permite propor que as culturas e identidades coletivas de “gentios” e “calhambolas” estivessem se reelaborando num contexto de negociações e conflitos entre diferentes sujeitos históricos.
Concreto nanoligado a base de sílica fundida para aplicação no riser de unidade de craqueamento catalítico fluido
Authors: Prestes E. , Gomes D. T. , Medeiros J. , Veiga J. L. B. C. , Pandolfelli V. C.
Published: June 2015

O agregado de sílica fundida é uma matéria-prima que se mostra adequada para o desenvolvimento de concretos para aplicação em riser de unidade de craqueamento catalítico fluido de petróleo (UFCC). A sua baixa densidade aparente e reduzida condutividade térmica contribuem, respectivamente, para a diminuição do peso da estrutura refratária e maior eficiência térmica do processo. Já o seu coeficiente de expansão linear de 0,55 x 10-6/ºC, extremamente reduzido, garante uma excelente resistência ao choque térmico. Contudo, para as condições de operação em riser, estas características precisam estar aliadas a um baixo desgaste por erosão. Sendo assim, um concreto nanoligado a base de sílica fundida foi desenvolvido buscando-se a minimização do desgaste por erosão. Duas composições foram testadas combinando-se os agregados de sílica fundida e alumina tabular. Verificou-se que as tensões geradas pelo "mismatch" de expansão térmica entre os agregados resultaram na formação de microtrincas, reduzindo consideravelmente as propriedades termomecânicas do material. Um menor dano foi verificado para a composição onde a alumina tabular foi adicionada somente nas frações mais finas de agregado. Nesta, a incorporação de um aditivo sinterizante favoreceu uma maior densificação em baixa temperatura, possibilitando otimizar a resistência à erosão e ao choque térmico. O valor médio de volume erodido obtido após queima a 815 ºC foi de 4,8 cm3. Em comparação com os 6 cm3 especificados pela indústria petroquímica brasileira para produtos refratários de alta alumina com densidade aparente superior a 2,60 g/cm3, pode-se afirmar que o resultado obtido foi muito promissor. O concreto nanoligado a base de sílica fundida que foi desenvolvido mostrou ser uma excelente opção para aplicação em riser de UFCC.
Influência da cera de carnaúba no comportamento reológico de misturas usadas na moldagem por injeção em baixa pressão
Authors: Ourique P. A. , Cruz R. C. D. , Zorzi J. E.
Published: June 2015

A moldagem por injeção em baixa pressão (MIBP) tem algumas vantagens sobre outros métodos de conformação de peças cerâmicas com formas complexas. Dentre as vantagens estão os menores custos na produção de lotes pequenos e médios e o menor desgaste de moldes e equipamento. Neste trabalho, foi estudado o efeito de um dos aditivos orgânicos usados na MIBP, a cera de carnaúba, no comportamento reológico da mistura (feedstock). O pó cerâmico utilizado foi uma alumina, com tamanho de partícula em torno de 0,4 μm. Com adições de 5% e 10% em peso de cera de carnaúba no veículo orgânico a viscosidade diminui significativamente, sendo bem mais acentuada com 10%, enquanto que, acima deste valor (15%), a viscosidade diminui, mas esta redução é menos pronunciada. Em contrapartida, em feedstocks sem a cera de carnaúba (0%), a viscosidade é tão elevada que praticamente inviabiliza a injeção em baixas pressões.
Determinação do tamanho de lote mínimo em amostragem aleatória para materiais, empregando a distribuição de Weibull
Authors: Pereira J. A. M. , Carvalho E. A.
Published: June 2015

Para materiais frágeis, nos quais algumas propriedades podem ser representadas pela distribuição de Weibull, destaca-se a necessidade de que um método seja apresentado para a determinação de lotes mínimos. Um modelo foi construído a partir de um método já aplicado para distribuição normal, com o auxílio de ferramentas estatísticas, desenvolvida em metodologia quantitativa e exploratória. Realizada a coleta números verdadeiramente aleatórios, em distribuição normal, conforme coeficientes de variação pré-estabelecidos para quatro faixas de numéricas, simulando também uma dispersão aleatória. Estes números foram desdobrados em distribuições menores, simulando tamanho de lotes. Utilizou-se a metodologia de Cochran, com a adoção de critérios específicos para a distribuição de Weibull. Foram produzidas tabelas numéricas que relacionam os coeficientes de variação de Weibull, faixa numérica e parâmetros de Weibull para a determinação de lotes mínimos em função do número máximo de amostras.
Wear performance of alumina-based ceramics - a review of the influence of microstructure on erosive wear
Authors: Milak P. C. , Minatto F. D. , De Noni Jr. A. , Montedo O. R. K.
Published: June 2015

Ceramic materials are of technical and commercial interest due to their chemical, mechanical and thermal performance, leading ceramics to meet many engineering requirements. Alumina (aluminum oxide) is one of the primary representatives of this class of materials because of its high fracture toughness, hardness and density, which enable its use in the production of highly critical parts. One such application involves protection against abrasion and erosion wear. The wear properties of a ceramic can be improved not only by controlling its material characteristics but also by controlling the fabrication process, which defines the material's microstructure. Many studies of the effects of the microstructure on these properties have been published. The objective of this study was to review the effects of the microstructure on the erosive wear resistance of alumina-based ceramics. Four factors that control the erosive wear of alumina were identified: (i) the effects of dopants on the diffusivity of the grain boundaries, (ii) the fabrication route, (iii) the sintering mechanisms and (iv) the alumina grain size. The published experimental results related to these topics are described and provide a clear understanding of the erosive wear of alumina.
Valorization of rice straw waste: an alternative ceramic raw material
Authors: Guzmán A Á. , Delvasto A S. , Sánchez V E.
Published: June 2015

In the production of rice a large amount of solid residue is produced, for which alternative utilizations are scarce or are not commonly applied in industry. Rice straw (RS) is a waste product of rice harvest that is generated in equal or greater quantities than the rice itself. RS is frequently burned in open air, which makes it a significant source of pollution. In the search for possible uses of RS, it should be noted that its ash (RSA) is particularly rich in silica, alkaline and alkaline earth metals and may be used as a source of alkalis and silica for the production of triaxial ceramics. The present research work proposes the production of a ceramic raw material from RS for its use in the fabrication of ceramic materials for the construction industry. Based on the chemical and mineralogical composition of RSA created under different thermal conditions, the most suitable RSA for this purpose was that obtained from treating RS at a temperature of 800 ºC for a time of 2 h. The resulting RSA presented high contents of SiO2 (79.62%), alkaline oxides (K2O) (10.53%) and alkaline earth oxides (CaO) (2.80%). It is concluded that RSA is a new alternative ceramic raw material that can be used as a replacement for the fluxing (mainly feldspar) and inert (quartz) materials that are used in the production of triaxial ceramics.