Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Cold period'

This thesis tries to provide a modest contribution to the critical studies on the history of development by exploring Cold War development practices. It questions the role of these practices in constructing a new regime that was conducive to govern the relationship between the West and the Third World after the Second World War. It suggests that development practices were composed of techniques and rationalities that were designed to solve the urgent problem of governing populations without using sheer force and sovereign power tools where these methods were not practical in the context of decolonization and Cold War. For this kind of inquiry, this thesis takes into account power relations embedded in the development practices and, by utilizing Michel Foucault&rsquo<br>s theories, perceives these practices as an essential way of disseminating biopolitical methods to the Third World. Role of the development discourse in governing populations is analyzed with relation to the notion of governmentality, which refers to modes of thought and the techniques of accomplishing rule in a discourse. In line with this theoretical framework, the first part of this thesis explores three schools of thought -modernization, dependency and world system- in order to explain the ways of producing thought and knowledge pertaining to development and the involvement of power relations in this process. Additionally, analyzing development aid and development planning which were the techniques to institutionalize development practices in the Third World countries and to render them technical that were managed only by experts without muddling with politics constitute the second part of this thesis .

The geopolitical conditions which led to the creation of NATO in 1949 rapidly disappeared following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. The possibility of the termination of institutionalised US support for European security was seriously raised in this period, as was the possibility of NATO ceasing to exist. However, after progressive transformation, NATO expanded rather than disbanded. It went on to participate in ‘out of area’ actions. All these commitments were accompanied by debates about the purpose of NATO. Relevant debates included continuing tensions between Washington and European capitals over defence spending levels; accusations that the US was using NATO as an instrument of extra-United Nations unilateral power; the preference of Washington immediately after 9/11 for working through ad hoc rather than institutionalised alliance structures; and the developing relationship between NATO and Russia. This research seeks to explain the continuing US commitment to NATO in the post-Cold War era. The initial focus is on the recommitment decisions of the Clinton administration. It also researches in some depth the operations in Kosovo and, in particular, Libya. The case study on Libya is especially important in exploring the Obama administration’s understanding of the purpose of NATO in the context of current economic pressures, domestic US debates about post-War on Terror interventions, and of increasing American preoccupation with Pacific rather than European security. In the light of NATO operations in the post-Cold War era and the recent Syrian and Ukrainian crises, the study argues that the US has always been committed to NATO due to the unique value of NATO; the US overall foreign policy preference for NATO; and internal bureaucratic compromise on NATO. But the US may suspend its support to the Alliance in the future if the inherent problem of burden-sharing is not seriously treated by the European members.

This thesis analyzes the political relations between Turkey and Albania in the post Cold War period. Political and diplomatic relations between Turkey and Albania based on mutual respect for territorial integrity and independence. This study analyzes the continuities and changes in the Turkish foreign policy towards Albania in the post Cold War era. Also changes and continuities in the Albanian foreign policy in the post Cold War period are scrutinized. This work examines the main Turkish foreign policy approaches towards Albania. Patterns of Turkish Balkan policy are examined to find out how Turkey constructed its foreign policy towards Albania after the end of Cold War. Turkey continued its traditional foreign policy according to realist and national interest-based foreign policy formulation. After 1990, Albania was in a period of a transition from its sui generis communist dictatorship regime under Enver Hoxha to an emerging democracy. Albania considered Turkey as a reliable ally in the Balkans. Turkey attached strong importance to stability and security in the Balkan region. Albania has significant role to play in Balkan region. Thus Turkey welcomed the Albanian decision on membership application to NATO and EU. Turkey tried to strength its bilateral relations with Albania and supported lbania&rsquo<br>s participation in regional and international organizations. This study focuses on the relations of Turkey and Albania within the framework of international and regional organizations.

This study uses the pop music scene as a tool to analyse contemporary cultural history in Asia, with a focus on the cold-war and post-cold war period (1960s-1990s). The primary objective is to present how Pan-Chinese music shaped peoples’ collective memories in Asia and to investigate issues such as cultural history identification, cultural worship, colonisation, nostalgia, and how these influence each other. The secondary objective is to analyse which factors can influence peoples’ collective memories, since similar pop music and historical backgrounds in Asia can be located. A particular focus is Deng Lijun (also known as Teresa Teng) (1964-1995) who is considered the most influential popular singer able to transcend ideological barriers in Asia. Through in-depth interviews carried out in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Japan during 2010, audience perceptions focusing on Deng Lijun's personality, music and performances were recorded and analysed in order to create focal points regarding the collective memory of her work. The main interest of this thesis is not only her role as a singer, but also her ability to capture different cultural imaginations, to initiate processes of identification and to transcend different country’s frontiers (Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, South-East Asia and Japan), particularly since these countries champion different ideological perspectives. Her fame and commercial success had a huge cultural impact, and as a result she was the first cultural carrier to break the boundaries of the Cold-War era in Asia. Apart from examining the social, cultural and political factors that influence pop music, the industry behind it and shared audience memories, the focal point of the thesis is to draw attention to aspect of time by examining how the cold war in Asia reconstructed pop music’s cultural symbols and how these symbols were transformed through different ideological structures and facets. Using the information gathered from interviews and archives, this study explores the role of popular music in political struggles between warring ideologies and shows how those struggles both informed and were informed by the sentimental songs of a global popular music idol.

Thesis (MA)--Stellenbosch University, 2013.<br>Bibliography<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This thesis describes the development of neoliberalism within the global context and explains how this ideology influenced economic policy formulation in post-apartheid South Africa. Policies from the Growth, Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) to the New Economic Growth Path (NEGP) are analysed within the timeframe from 1996 to 2011 to determine how and whether neoliberalism had an impact on policy formulation. The development of neoliberal thinking is historicised to illustrate how it became the dominant ideational framework at the world order level. This was a path dependent process which is traced at the social, institutional and ideational levels. The establishment of the Mont Pelerin Society, the development of the post-Second World War economic order and the development and implementation of the Washington Consensus are important aspects of a counter-ideational challenge to Keynesianism which took place over some 25 years. The rationale behind neoliberalism and the implementation of neoliberal policies is strongly motivated by assumptions such as private property rights, deregulation of trade, finance and production and a form of state which facilitates market dominant policies. Neoliberalism strongly came to prominence during the 1970s and 1980s. During this time increased pressure was placed on the South African apartheid government from outside and inside to implement more market-orientated or neoliberal economic policies. It became increasingly evident that South Africa’s isolation to economic globalisation was not sustainable. At the time of the unbanning of the African National Congress (ANC) and the release of Nelson Mandela in 1990, the ANC did not have a clearly formulated economic programme. Neoliberal thinking gradually gained in influence among ANC leaders and policy makers and after the party resoundingly won the 1994 elections, it seemed that neoliberal thinking became well established, albeit with some important variations and distinctive characteristics. The Growth, Employment and Redistribution programme did not fully achieve its primary goals of employment creation and redistribution, although a period of economic growth (2002-2006) did follow the first phase of its implementation. This led to a rethink and reevaluation of economic policy, particularly after the global financial crisis (2007-2009). The first “rethink” led to the adoption of the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (AsgiSA). This shift is regarded by some analysts as an economic transition period from GEAR to a more developmentalist and interventionist policy, but is, in fact, characterised by continuity and is in line with the World Bank’s post-Washington consensus thinking. This period is also characterised by internal tensions within the ANC and the leadership struggle between Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki (the incumbent president and architect of GEAR), Zuma’s victory was regarded as a victory for the left, but was followed by minor concessions and more continuity in policy, notwithstanding the launching of the NEGP in 2011 which spells out some goals for democratising and restructuring the economy. The study concludes that neoliberalism had a unique influence on economic policy formulation in South Africa even though it was not a pure reflection of neoliberal policies. Economic policy formulation in South Africa has undergone constant change and adaptation and reflects the shifting balance of power between the major social forces related to production and finance in the country. At the rhetorical level, policy seems to be moving in the direction of a democratic developmental state and this needs to be viewed within the context of the circumstances which led to the development of the RDP, GEAR and the NEGP.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die tesis beskryf die ontwikkeling van neoliberalisme binne die globale konteks en verduidelik hoe hierdie ideologie ekonomiese beleidformulering in Suid-Afrika beïnvloed het. Ekonomiese beleid vanaf die Herkonstruksie en Ontwikkling-program (HOP), die Groei, Indiensneming en Herverspreiding-program (GIEH) en die Nuwe Ekonomiese Groei-pad (NEGP) word geanaliseer binne die tydsbestek vanaf 1996-2011, ten einde te bepaal hoe en of neoliberalisme ’n impak op beleidsformulering in die land gehad het. Die ontwikkeling van neoliberale denke word histories beskryf ten einde te illustreer hoe dit, op die wêreld-orde vlak, die dominante ideologiese raamwerk vir ekonomiese beleid geword het. Hierdie proses was afhanklik van ’n aantal duidelik lynverwante fases wat nagespoor word op die kontinuum van sosiale, institusionele en idees dimensies. Die vorming van die Mont Pelerin Stigting, die ontwikkeling van die na-oorlogse (WWII) ekonomiese orde en die ontwikkeling en implementering van die Washington-konsensus is belangrike aspekte van die bou van ’n ideologiese alternatief vir Keynesianisme wat oor ongeveer 25 jaar plaasgevind het. Die rasionaal onderliggend aan neoliberalisme en daarmee gepaardgaande beleid word sterk gemotiveer deur die aannames van privaat eiendomsregte, deregulering van handel, finanasies en produksie en ’n staatsvorm wat mark-dominante beleid fasiliteer. Neoliberalisme het tydens die 1970s and 1980s prominent geword. Tydens hierdie periode is van buite en van binne toenemende druk op die apartheid regime geplaas om meer markgeorienteerde en neoliberale beleidsveranderinge te implementeer. Dit is veral tydens die 1980s dat dit al hoe duideliker geword het dat Suid-Afrika se isolasie in ’n ekonomies globaliserende wêreld nie meer haalbaar was nie. Ten tye van die ontbanning van die ANC en die vrylating van Nelson Mandela in 1990, het die ANC nie ’n duidelik geformuleerde ekonomiese program en beleid gehad nie. Teen 1994, het neoliberale denke geleidelik in invloed toegeneem onder ANC leiers en beleidmakers, en na die eerste demokratiese verkiesing, het dit voorgekom asof dit goed gevestig was, met nietemin belangrike plaaslike variasies en onderskeibare kenmerke. Die GIEH, wat as die amptelike vervatting van neoliberale ekonomiese beleid beskou kan word, het nie ten volle sy primêre doelwitte van werkskepping en herverspreiding bereik nie, alhoewel ’n periode van ekonomiese groei (2002-2006) wel gevolg het na die eerste fase van dié beleid se implementering. Dit het tot ’n herbeskouing en herevaluering gelei, veral na die globale finansiële krisies (2007-2009). Die eerste “herformulering” van beleid het gelei tot die aanname van die Versnelde en Gedeelde Groei-inisiatief vir Suid-Afrika (VGGISA). Hierdie ontwikkeling is deur sommige waarnemers beskou as ’n ekonomiese oorgang van GIEH na ’n meer ontwikkelingsgerigte en intervensionistiese staat, maar is, in der waarheid, gekenmerk deur kontinuïteit en was in pas met die post-Washington konsensus beleid van die Wêreld Bank. Hierdie periode is ook noemenswaardig vir interne spanninge binne die ANC en die leierskaps-stryd tussen Jacob Zuma en Thabo Mbeki (die sittende president en argitek van GIEH). Zuma se oorwinning is beskou as ’n oorwinning vir die linksgesindes in die Drieparty Alliansie (ANC, COSATU en SACP), maar is gevolg deur klein toegewings en meer kontinuïteit in ekonomiese beleid. Dit, nieteenstaande die feit dat die NEGP in 2011 lanseer is,met as onderbou die demokratisering en herstrukturering van die ekonomie. Die studie kom tot die gevolgtrekking dat neoliberalisme ’n unieke invloed op ekonomiese beleidsformulering in Suid-Afrika gehad het, selfs al was dit nie ’n suiwer weerspieëling van hierdie denkrigting nie. Ekonomiese beleidsformulering ondergaan voortdurend verandering en aanpassing en weerspieël veranderinge in magsverskuiwinge tussen die vernaamste sosiale magte verwant aan produksie en finansies in die land. Op die retoriese vlak, skyn dit asof beleid besig is om te verander in die rigting van ’n demokratiese onwikkelings-staat en dit moet gesien word binne die konteks van die omstandighede wat gelei het tot die ontwikkeling van die HOP, GIEH en NEGP.

This dissertation explores the cultural and intellectual factors in the remaking of US-Japan relations which transformed as the two countries transitioned from enemies to allies after 1945. Diverging from the traditional approaches of diplomatic and political history that, focusing on state actors, describe policymaking processes, I comparatively study public discourses in 1940s-early 1950s America and Japan where various groups and actors - politicians, bureaucrats, journalists, scholars, and intellectuals - participated and created. Both peoples shared a similar discourse concerning modernization and, indeed, developed parallel ideas about modern Japanese history and the causes of Japanese militarism, the postwar democratization of Japan, and the making of a postwar Asian peace. They believed in the European progressive view of history, variously interpreted, and judged Japan to be "underdeveloped," compared with the "advanced West," having become an unlawful aggressor nation in the 1930s. Such views of a "failed" modernity and subsequent war rationalized Allied occupation and democratization reforms in post-surrender Japan. The more influenced by Marxian theories, the more critical they were of Japan's incomplete modernization, and the more enthusiastic for Allied - or American - intervention in postwar reforms. American and Japanese discourses on the reform of Japan's political organization, namely constitutional revision, show similar reformist plans from reconstruction of the constitutional monarchy to republican options. Those adopting Marxist analyses found the root cause of Japan's undemocratic and aggressive nature in the emperor system called for its elimination; those who did not believe that democratization required the overthrow of monarchy suggested reforming Japan's imperial institution to make democratic government function better. In addition, both Americans and Japanese shared the Wilsonian idea of internationalism, and they expected Japan to reenter the postwar Asia-Pacific as a totally demilitarized, democratic, and pacifist country that could contribute to peace and development of the region. With the Cold War, the US policies for Asia and Japan altered. So did the internationalist visions, causing political debates in the United States and Japan. My work ultimately shows such parallel and intersecting cultures where US-Japan relations were rehabilitated in the immediate-postwar years.

The South Westland Continental Margin (SWCM) is incised by two major active canyon channels, the Hokitika and Cook canyons, which export large volumes of terrigenous sediment from the active New Zealand landmass to the deep ocean basins. This thesis examines modern sediment textures and compositions of shelf and canyon heads, to interpret depositional and transport processes in shelf-canyon interactions and the dispersal and provenance of SWCM surface sediments. This is the first detailed study of modern sediments south of the Whataroa River which focuses on both shelf and canyon head sediments. Submarine canyons that incise active continental shelves are major conduits for sediment transfer. The frequency and magnitude of this transfer has important implications for ocean nutrient cycling (i.e. organic carbon), the stratigraphy and morphology of continental shelves, and the development of economic mineral deposits. Grain size analysis, petrology, geochemistry, detrital magnetite analysis (microprobe), swath bathymetry, and wave hindcast data are used to interpret the spatial distribution, dispersal, and provenance of surface grab samples, canyon cores, and beach and river samples on the SWCM. Four main surficial facies are defined from textural and compositional results, primarily reflecting the supply and storm dominated nature of the SWCM. Facies 1 is comprised of inner shelf very fine to medium sand sized quartz, metamorphic lithics, and feldspar. This facies occurs above the mean Hsig wave base (48 m) where silts, clays, and sand sized micas are bypassed further offshore. Facies 2 is a transitional sand to mud facies between 40 -70 m depth where increasing clay, silt, and mica reflect a decrease in the frequency and magnitude of wave orbital remobilisation. Facies 3 is a mud dominated (80-90%), clay rich (7-9%) facies with the highest mica and Al₂O₃ content of all the SWCM facies. The shelves south of the Hokitika canyon are blanketed beyond the inner shelf in facies 3 towards the shelf break. Facies 4 is restricted to the canyon head north rims and is characterised by mixed relict and modern terrigenous sediments and glaucony. Net transport on the SWCM shelf is to the north, particularly during south-westerly storms where wind drift and storm swells may stir and transport the deeper Facies 2 and 3 sediments. The SWCM has an energetic wave climate and numerous high yield mountainous rivers. As a result the shelf has an extensive coverage of silts and clays with sediment transport most likely dominated by nepheloid layers and fluid mud flows during wet storms. North of the Hokitika canyon, shelf width increases as fluvial supply falls, resulting in a more storm dominated shelf as the prevailing hydraulic conditions prevent modern silts and clays from blanketing the outer shelf. Narrower shelf widths and higher fluvial supply between the Hokitika canyon and the Haast region results in more fluvial dominated shelves. Contrasting canyon rim textures and compositions reflect the major influence the Hokitika and Cook canyon heads impose on the SWCM by intercepting modern net northward shelf transport paths. This interception creates a leeward sediment deficit on the canyon north rims where low sedimentation rates prevail and relict sediments are partially exposed. The south and east rims of both canyons are characterised by modern fine grained terrigenous textures and compositions similar to the SWCM middle to outer shelf facies 3. The build-up and storage of these unconsolidated sediments at the south and east rims provides favourable environments for sediment gravity flows that feed into the canyon systems. Wave orbitals can resuspend fine sands up to 50 m below the canyon rims during large storms. This resuspension will be a main driver of canyon head sedimentation in the form of fluid mud flows. Gully networks along the south and east rims of the Hokitika and Cook canyons indicate active submarine erosion, unconfined fluid flow, and sediment gravity flows operate here. ii In contrast, the north canyon rims are characterised by gravels and coarse sands out of equilibrium with the prevailing modern hydraulic regime. Relict gravels are particularly prevalent on the Hokitika canyon north rim between 90 – 150 m depth. A lack of active gully networks and the presence of relict terraces and cuspate channels provide further evidence for a relict origin of HCH north rim sediments and little influx of modern fine sediments. North rim sediments on the Hokitika canyon between 90 – 125 m have features characteristic of relict beach and littoral environments. These features include pebble and coarse sand sized siliciclastics, high heavy mineral percentages (i.e. garnet), high Zr and Y levels, elevated SiO₂/Al₂O₃ ratios, and relict shell fragments. Mature glaucony is common on the north rims of both canyons, especially between 180 -200 m depth providing further evidence for extended periods of little to no modern sediment deposition in the canyon lee. Glaucony grains have experienced limited transport and are probably parautochthonous. The bulk composition of SWCM shelf, canyon, river, and beach sediments is controlled mainly by the hydrodynamic sorting of Alpine Schist derived material. Regional changes in catchment geology are identified in modern SWCM shelf sediments. Ultramafic signals (i.e. enriched trace element patterns and Cr/V and Ni/Y ratios) from the Pounamu Ultramafics and Dun Mountain Ultramafics were identified on the North and Cascade shelves respectively. The contribution of other lithologies to the bulk composition of SWCM sediments is localised due to rapid dilution with Alpine Schist detritus. The low carbonate and skeletal content on the SWCM is due to the energetic wave climate and high fluvial supply on the shelves. A variety of Cr-rich spinels and magnetites are supplied to the SWCM shelves and vary with regional changes in catchment geology. The Cascade shelf is rich in chromites (containing up to 215,000 ppm Cr) and Cr – rich magnetites sourced from the Dun Mountain Ultramafics via the Cascade River. Shelf, beach, and river samples between the Haast River and Waitaha River are dominated by low-Cr magnetite grains which represent the ‘background’ magnetite composition sourced from rivers draining the Alpine Schist dominated catchments. The dispersal of Cr-rich spinels is limited due to the dilution with low Cr-magnetites from rivers and littoral sediments. Glacio-eustatic lowstands such as the Last Glacial Cold Period (LGCP), represented periods of robust connection of local rivers with the Hokitika and Cook canyon heads, increased interception of littoral transport paths, and compartmentalisation of inter-canyon shelves. Hokitika canyon cores reflect these changes with textural and compositional ‘spikes’ indicating higher terrigenous input during the LGCP. The geochemistry of the terrigenous fraction in the Hokitika canyon provides evidence for enrichment in ferromagnesian and Cr-rich minerals during the LGCP. This is due to the increased connectivity of the Cr-spinel bearing Hokitika River to the canyon head. The Cr/V ratio in particular demonstrates its effectiveness as a proxy for interglacial – glacial change in submarine canyon stratigraphy. Increases and decreases in the connectivity of Cr-bearing fluvial systems during lowstands and highstands respectively can be observed with this ratio.

Since the establishment of the republic in 1923 there has never been a consensus over Turkey‘s national identity, either internally or externally. Westernization was a top-down project that fostered societal resistance from the outset and which received only partial recognition from the West itself. The end of the Cold War has further intensified the debates over Turkish identity both in Turkey itself and in the wider world. This thesis examines the implications of a complex and insecure identity for Turkey‘s political development and in particular its ability to develop an international role commensurate with its size and capabilities. In doing so, it demonstrates the connection between different notions of Turkish identity and foreign policy preferences whilst emphasising also the important role of the international institutional context (for example membership of NATO and the EU) in shaping the preferences of diverse state/societal actors within Turkey in the post-Cold War period. The focus in this regard is on the military, political parties and business/civil-society groups. The thesis engages recent debates between constructivists and rationalists and argues that a constructivist account of Turkish foreign policy is more helpful than a rationalist explanation, through the case studies of Turkey‘s relations with the EU, Greece and the Middle East in the post-Cold War period. It shows how rational actor assumptions operate within a constructivist context and aims to shed light on the relationship between identity, political interests and foreign policy. The thesis also demonstrates that an insecure identity is a barrier to pursue consistent foreign policy goals, thereby lending support to the view that a secure identity is a condition of developing a stable and influential role in the post-Cold War system.

The earth has always had a shifting climate with some periods having a colder climate then what is considered normal. This essay aims to investigate how the research of cold periods have changed. The purpose with this study is to investigate the most common beliefs researches has for the events of the climate catastrophe 536 and what factors lead to a possible population reduction. I will investigate three different reasons for this: Volcanic eruptions, plague, and climate. Another cold period the “little ice age”, 1300-1850, is used as an example and a theoretic comparison to the catastrophe of year 536 because the “little ice age” is a well-documented cold period of the later historical era. These two periods are interesting because they are booth cold periods. The first cold period lasted for a couple decades while the second cold period lasted for five hundred years. The bad climate situation depends of several different factors especially the fall in summer temperatures because the sun was hidden in a dust veil. The dust veil had been created after the big eruptions. The result of this study is that in general, the research has gone from more simple research to a more complex when knowledge of the complexity of the situation has evolved. The newer research has better access to natural science sources. The most common believes is that the volcanic eruptions or the Justinian plague were the biggest reason for a possible population reduction.

Deep ventilation of the Black Sea is inhibited by a sharp salinity gradient within the upper water column, resulting in a shallow anoxic interface at around 100 &ndash<br>200 m depth. Understanding biological and chemical processes within the boundary region between oxic and anoxic waters is fundamental to comprehend the biogeochemical response of the Black Sea to climate forcing. The structure and depth of the chemocline is largely determined by the physical processes which transport surface waters to depth. Here we investigate how the structure and stability of the upper water column responds to changes in climatic forcing over interannual to multidecadal time-scales. We report results from two hydrodynamic model reanalysis. The first, extending from 1971-1993 assimilates CTD data. The second, extending from 1992-2001, assimilates altimetry data. Model results are validated against CTD and satellite data and consistency between modeled surface properties and observations is demonstrated. A problem with the data assimilation scheme of the 1992 -2001 model run is identified, which results in model drift and an unrealistic water column structure at intermediate depths. Model results indicate a warming trend of 0.7 &deg<br>C in sea surface temperature and a freshening trend of 0.4 in sea surface salinity between 1971 and 2001, with an associated increasing trend in the stability of the seasonal thermocline and a declining trend in surface mixed layer depth of 6.3 m. Trends are superimposed on a distinct multiannual variability characterized by relatively warm and saline conditions between 1971 and 1984, relatively cool and fresh conditions between 1985 and 1993 and warm and fresh conditions post-1993. The period between 1985 and 1993 corresponds to higher NAO and EA/WR index values although these indices do not exhibit a similar ~decadal scale variability. Higher frequency interannual variability in water column characteristics is related to the NAO and EA/WR atmospheric indices. Despite the cool conditions prevalent during the 1990s, the persistent freshening trend caused a reduction in the density of mixed layer waters throughout the study period. A positive feedback is proposed between increasing SSTs, reduced vertical mixing and freshening of the surface layer which further increases the stability of the upper water column. CIL characteristics typically mirrored surface temperature characteristics and varied considerably between the relatively warm period during the early part of the study and the subsequent cool period. The mean thickness and temperature of the CIL between 1971 and 1981 were ~39 m and ~7.5 &deg<br>C respectively, as compared to ~47 m and ~7.4 &deg<br>C between 1982 and 1993. Freshening of the upper water column also resulted in an increase in the stability maxima that exists at the base of the CIL, suggesting reduced ventilation of the upper water column during winter.

In the contemporary political setting, the emergence of transnationalism represents a significant challenge to traditional state-centred depictions of international relations and raises many questions concerning its purpose, legitimacy and effects. This study is concerned with one aspect of the transnational debate: the dynamics of power that drive consensus formation within informal, and collaborative, elite transnational networks. Situated in debates related to international relations, political economy, policy science, political sociology and social network theory, this study identifies the role played by transnational elites in articulating, as well as interpreting, structural determinants of policy. In short, transnational elite interactions are responsible, often unconsciously, for the legitimisation of pervasive social constructs within the wider elite community. The process of legitimisation within such settings is highly contested and, as a consequence, power relations are critical to our understanding of eventual consensus. Utilising Steven Lukes’s (1974) third dimensional form of power, this study considers the discrete mechanisms of preference formation at play within transnational elite networks. Exploring processes of socialisation, acculturation, familiarisation and fraternisation within such communities, the complex, and highly personal, demands of elite membership are revealed. The study suggests that these demands have a considerable bearing upon the nature and substance of consensus formation activity within elite networks. It also makes clear, however, that any resulting consensus is far from absolute and highly idiosyncratic. This qualitative study is the first of its kind concerned with the interactions of transnational elites. It reports the findings of interviews conducted with sixteen members of the Atlantic transnational network – arguably the most powerful and interconnected of all transnational networks. In presenting an analysis of the first-hand accounts of these individuals, and exploring the dynamics of power within such a context, this study represents an original contribution to knowledge in the field.

Magister Scientiae (Physiotherapy) - MSc(Physio)<br>A traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) often occurs unexpectedly and causes considerable disability. This condition requires specialized care that is delivered in a time sensitive manner. Data on the incidence, causes, mortality and injury characteristics of TSCI are important for gauging demand for health care and social support services. Unfortunately data on the incidence and causes, as well as functioning such as participation and integration into society, of TSCI are sparse in developing countries such as Tanzania. The overall aim of this study is to determine the incidence, causes, mortality and injury characteristics of TSCI, and to explore the challenges experienced with community reintegration after injury in Tanzania. Both quantitative and qualitative research paradigms were used. The quantitative phase of the study was conducted at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), a referral and teaching hospital in northern Tanzania. The study population was all patients admitted to KCMC with a TSCI from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2015 (five year period). Quantitative data were collected retrospectively using a data extraction sheet designed by the International Spinal Cord Society which consisted of the following sections: participants’ characteristics (for example age, gender, duration of hospital stay, causes of injury and vertebral injuries) and injury characteristics (location of injury and completeness of injury). Differences between groups (stratified by year) was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The population for the qualitative phase was based on those included in the quantitative phase. Purposive sampling was used to select adults (over the age of 18 years) with TSCI who were managed at KCMC. Qualitative data were collected by means of individual, semi-structured interviews, and lasted until theoretical saturation was achieved. Thematic analysis was used to derive themes (categories) explaining the latent perceptions of community reintegration and its influences.

Objetivos: Determinar la prevalencia de Escherichia coli BLEE en urocultivos del Hospital Central FAP en el periodo Enero-Junio 2016. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, analítico, retrospectivo y transversal. Se revisaron 1772 aislamientos bacterianos en orina (urocultivos) generados desde el laboratorio de microbiología del Hospital en el periodo comprendido entre Enero a Junio del 2016. Resultados: Encontramos 1175 urocultivos positivos de los cuales el 26.5% resultaron ser urocultivos E coli BLEE (+).El 80 % de los urocultivos E coli BLEE (+) fueron de género femenino y el 20% masculino. La media de la edad de los pacientes con E coli BLEE (+) fue de 64+/-22,2 años, siendo la mínima de 1 año y la máxima de 102 años. En la mujer, la prevalencia de Escherichia coli BLEE (+), fue más frecuente en el grupo etáreo de 35 a 64 años (34,7%), y en el hombre fue más frecuente en el grupo etáreo mayor de 80 años (42,6%). Observamos que la media de edad de los BLEE (+) fue mayor en relación a los BLEE negativos (64 vs 60.9 años). Encontramos una mayor frecuencia de sensibilidad antimicrobiana de los aislados de Escherichia coli BLEE (+) con amikacina (91,7%), e imipenem (91,5%); y la frecuencia de mayor resistencia fue encontrada con el ácido Nalidíxico (94%), y Cefalotina (89,8%). En los BLEE negativos hubo mayor sensibilidad con la nitrofurantoína (95,5%), Cefalotina (85,1%) y gentamicina (80%), asimismo en el mismo grupo se evidenció mayor resistencia al ácido nalidíxico (64.3%). Conclusiones: La prevalencia de Escherichia coli BLEE fue del 26.5%, afectando principalmente al sexo femenino y el grupo etáreo de 35 a 64 años. En los urocultivos E. coli BLEE (+), la media de edad fue de 64 años, y en los urocultivos E. coli BLEE (-) fue 60 años. Hubo una mayor frecuencia de sensibilidad antimicrobiana de los aislados de Escherichia coli BLEE positivos con amikacina, e imipenem; y de mayor resistencia con el ácido Nalidíxico, y Cefalotina; y de los BLEE negativos hubo mayor sensibilidad con la gentamicina, Cefalotina, nitrofurantoína y mayor resistencia a ácido nalidíxico.

Orientador: Jose Camillo Novello<br>Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia<br>Made available in DSpace on 2018-08-13T10:05:40Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Horiuchi_RicardoShinitiOka_M.pdf: 1202422 bytes, checksum: 1a5e31f31a1ac8f070f82356fa364475 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2009<br>Resumo: Conhecer os mecanismos que regem a embriogenese e a maturacao do sistema nervoso e de grande interesse para todos os diferentes ramos da neurociencia. Durante o desenvolvimento dos mamiferos sabe-se que ocorrem fenomenos que levam a definicao do numero de neuronios e refinamento das conexoes sinapticas, que tem caracteristicas proprias nas diferentes regioes do sistema nervoso e podem diferir tambem quanto a sua duracao. Apos o nascimento, diversos sinais neurais e bioquimicos podem modificar significativamente a organizacao morfologica e funcional dos circuitos da medula espinhal, periodo que podemos considerar como critico. Tendo em vista esses fatores, o trabalho visou analisar o proteoma, complemento proteico completo do genoma, da regiao lombar da medula espinhal de rato em busca de proteinas envolvidas com o processo de neurodesenvolvimento. Amostras de medula de rato foram coletadas em diferentes tempos de vida, abrangendo o dia do nascimento (P0), com dois (P2), quatro (P4), sete (P7) e vinte e um (P21) dias de vida e comparadas utilizando-se a eletroforese de duas dimensoes em gel de poliacrilamida e identificacao por espectrometrias de massas. Os perfis proteomicos obtidos permitiram identificar proteinas diferencialmente expressas entre as amostras de P4 e P21. Destas, cinco foram mais expressas em amostras de P4: XLas, fragmento da cadeia beta da ATP sintase trasnportadora de H+, a cadeia 2B da tubulina beta e a neuromodulina; e tres foram mais expressas nas amostras de P21: GFAP, neurofilamento de cadeias polipeptidicas leve e reguladora da proteina G. Estes resultados indicam que ha uma expressao proteica diferencial e que sao as provaveis proteinas envolvidas no processo de desenvolvimento pos-natal da medula espinhal.<br>Abstract: To know the mechanisms that govern the embryogenesis and the maturing of the nervous system is of great interest for all the different branches of the neuroscience. During the development of the mammals one is known to take place phenomena that lead to the definition of the number of neurons and refinement of the synaptic connections, which has characteristics own in the different regions of the nervous system and which duration can also differ as for his duration. After the birth, several neurons signs and biochemical can modify significantly the morphological and functional organization of the circuits of the spinal cord, period that we can consider like critic. In mind these factors, the work aimed to analyses the proteome, the genome complete protein complement, of the lumbar region of the spinal cord of rat in search of proteins wrapped with the process of neurodevelopment. Samples of rat's spinal cord were collected in different times of life, including the day of the birth (P0), with two (P2), four (P4), seven (P7) and twenty one (P21) days of life and compared by two dimensional gel electrophoresis and identification by mass spectrometry. The proteomics profiles obtained allowed to identify proteins differently expressed between the samples of P4 and P21. Of this, five were more expressed in samples of P4: XLas, H+ transporting ATP synthase beta chain (fragment), Tubulin beta-2B chain and the neuromodulin; and three were more expressed in the samples of P21: GFAP, Neurofilament light polypeptide and Regulator of G-protein signaling 14. These results indicate that there is a differential protein expression and which are the probable proteins wrapped in the process of native-powders development of the spinal cord.<br>Mestrado<br>Bioquimica<br>Mestre em Biologia Funcional e Molecular

Патологія пупкового канатику, при якій можливий розвиток ускладнень під час пологів і загалом перинатального періоду, надзвичайно різноманітна. Однією з рідкісних патологій пуповини є гематома пупкового канатику, що за даними літератури спостерігається з частотою 1 на 5000 – 13000 пологів.

Orientador: Elza Salvatori Berquo<br>Tese (doutorado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Filosofia e Ciencias Humanas<br>Made available in DSpace on 2018-08-03T23:35:31Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Lago_TaniaDiGiacomodo_D.pdf: 345265 bytes, checksum: bc6eabf9476cb29472274ce88e8bb2bd (MD5) Previous issue date: 2004<br>Resumo: No Brasil, a detecção precoce do câncer cérvico-uterino via colpocitologia ocorreu de forma oportunística até 1998, quando se implementou o Programa Nacional de Controle do Câncer de Colo Uterino. Esta implementação ocorreu com uma campanha nacional voltada prioritariamente para mulheres com idade entre 35 a 49 anos, seguiu-se com o fortalecimento da oferta das ações de rastreamento, diagnóstico e tratamento na rotina dos serviços para mulheres com 25 a 59 anos de idade, prevendo a realização de campanhas trienais para atingir o grupo etário prioritário. Instituiu-se também em 1998, um sistema de informação constituído pelos laudos das citologias realizadas no Sistema Único de Saúde, o SISCOLO, para monitorar o programa. Este estudo analisou o período de 1998 a 2002, a partir da informação disponível no SISCOLO, atendo-se em especial à comparação da clientela presente na rotina dos serviços e nas campanhas, quanto à composição etária e ao perfil das alterações encontradas em epitélio escamoso. Os resultados demonstram que a campanha de 1998 conseguiu concentrar a maior proporção de mulheres na faixa etária prioritária, de 35 a 49 anos (72%) e identificou a maior prevalência de NIC II, NIC III e carcinoma invasivo no país e em particular naquele grupo etário. Na clientela que realizou os exames na rotina dos serviços, predominaram mulheres com menos de 35 anos (50%) e a detecção de carcinoma invasivo na faixa etária com 50 anos ou mais. A campanha realizada em 2002 atraiu mulheres de 35 a 49 anos (50% das mulheres que participaram), mas identificou menor prevalência de lesões mais graves em todo o país e em especial, neste grupo etário. As duas campanhas detectaram maior proporção de carcinoma invasivo antes dos 50 anos, enquanto na rotina, a maioria destes casos foi detectada em mulheres com mais de 50 anos. Recomenda-se que as campanhas sejam estendidas para mulheres com idade entre 35 e 55/60 anos e que utilizem estratégias locais e para captar mulheres vivendo em situações de menor acesso aos serviços de saúde<br>Abstract: A National Program for Cervical Cancer Control was implemented in Brazil in 1998. It started with a national screening campaign directed mainly to women aged 35 to 49, defined as the program¿s age priority group. This step was followed by the establishment of financial benefits to reinforce the availability of screening, diagnosis and treatment for women aged 25-59 in daily health services activities. Screening campaigns to achieve women in the priority age group, were proposed to occur at every three years as a complementary strategy. A national information system containing all cytological examinations performed in the national public health system (SUS), called SISCOLO, was also implemented in 1998 for program monitoring. The present study has analyzed the period between 1998 and 2002 based upon data available in SISCOLO, intending particularly to compare women attending the screening campaigns to those undertaking Papsmear opportunistically at the health services routine, as referred to their age structure and the profile of squamous cells abnormalities detected at cytology. Study results show that the first campaign was successful to turn women aged 35 to 45 majority among clients (72%) and has identified the greatest prevalence rates for CIN II, CIN III and invasive cervical cancer all over the country, specially in that age group. Among women having opportunistic Papsmear at health services, those younger than 35 represented 50% and the detection of invasive cancer was more frequent in those aged 50 or older, than in the campaign. The second campaign, which took place in 2002, was able to attract women aged 35 to 45 (50% of all women attending) but has identified the lowest prevalence rate for CIN III and invasive cervical cancer, specially in this age group. Both campaigns were more likely to detect invasive cervical cancer in women younger than 50, than opportunistic Papsmear. CIN III prevalence rate among women aged 50 an older was greater or equal to that observed in those aged 35 to 49, except in 1998. It is suggested that campaigns are extended to include women aged 55 or even 60, and that local strategies are developed to reach women living under conditions of low access to health services<br>Doutorado<br>Doutor em Demografia

The aim of this master thesis study was improvement of the required operational conditions for aerobic granulation in sequencing batch reactors (SBRs). In the first part of the study, membrane bioreactor sludge (MBS) and conventional activated sludge (CAS), were used to investigate the effect of suspended seed sludge type on granulation in SBRs. The MBS granules were found to be advantageous in terms of size, resistance to toxic effects, stability and recovery compared to CAS granules. During non-inhibitory conditions, sCOD removal efficiencies were 70&plusmn<br>13% and 67&plusmn<br>11% for MBS and CAS, and total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiencies were 38&plusmn<br>8% and 26&plusmn<br>8%, respectively. In the second part of the study, the effects of period sequence (anoxic-aerobic and aerobic-anoxic) on aerobic granulation from MBS, and sCOD, N removal efficiencies were investigated. Granules developed in anoxic-aerobic period sequence were more stable and larger (1.8-3.5 mm) than granules developed in aerobic-anoxic sequence. Under steady conditions, almost 95% sCOD, 90% Total Ammonia Nitrogen (TAN) and around 39-47 % of TN removal was achieved. Almost 100% denitrification in anoxic period was achieved in anoxic-aerobic period sequence and it was observed around 40% in aerobic-anoxic period sequence. The effects of influent sulfate (from 35.1 mg/L to 70.2 mg/L) on treatment efficiencies of aerobic granules were also investigated. The influent SO42- concentrations of 52.6 mg/L to 70.2 mg/L promoted sulfate reduction. The produced sulfide (0.24 mg/L to 0.62 mg/L) inhibited the ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) performance by 10 to 50%.

Tesis por compendio<br>[ES] En las últimas dos décadas, la producción de caqui en España ha aumentado exponencialmente y la superficie de cultivo se ha multiplicado casi por ocho. En la actualidad, la producción de caqui está centralizada en el cultivar 'Rojo Brillante', que es mundialmente apreciado. Sin embargo, esta centralización supone una importante limitación comercial. En la presente Tesis se abordan dos objetivos principales: 1) Optimización de la tecnología pre y postcosecha con el fin de garantizar la calidad del caqui 'Rojo Brillante' durante la frigoconservación y el transporte a mercados internacionales. 2) Evaluación del comportamiento bajo condiciones mediterráneas de variedades introducidas de otras regiones productoras con el fin de ampliar el rango varietal de caqui. El primer objetivo de esta Tesis se logró a través de los estudios presentados en los Capítulos I al V. El segundo objetivo se abordó en los Capítulos VI y VII. En el Capítulo I se esclarecieron las causas del pardeamiento interno del fruto en los envíos a los mercados internacionales. La temperatura a la que se expone la fruta inmediatamente tras la aplicación del tratamiento de desastringencia con altas concentraciones de CO2 se identificó como el principal factor implicado en esta alteración. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que esta alteración se puede evitar mediante la implementación de un período de atemperado de 24 h después del tratamiento con CO2, antes de conservar las frutas a bajas temperaturas. En el Capítulo II se evaluó la eficacia de un tratamiento de desastringencia recientemente patentado basado en la aplicación de una nueva cera que contiene etanol en su formulación. Los resultados mostraron que esta cera podría ser una alternativa al tratamiento convencional de desastringencia con altas concentraciones de CO2 cuando la fruta se envía a mercados lejanos a bajas temperaturas. La aplicación de la nueva cera antes de conservación en frío provocó la pérdida de astringencia de la fruta tras 30 días a 0 °C, preservando la firmeza y la calidad interna. Los resultados del Capítulo III demostraron que la realización de dos aplicaciones de ácido giberélico (AG) en precosecha permite retrasar el proceso de maduración de la fruta en el árbol con respecto a una sola aplicación. La combinación de AG en precosecha y 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP) en postcosecha resultó en una mayor calidad del fruto durante la frigoconservación en comparación con la aplicación únicamente de 1-MCP. Además, la fruta tratada con múltiples aplicaciones de AG mostró una firmeza ligeramente mayor tras de conservación a baja temperatura. En el Capítulo IV se demostró que, paralelamente al retraso de la maduración, el tratamiento con AG también retrasa la senescencia del cáliz, incrementando la calidad externa del fruto. La senescencia del cáliz durante la maduración del fruto se relacionó con una disminución de los parámetros de fluorescencia de clorofila (Fo, Fm y Fv/Fm). En el Capítulo V se estudiaron las condiciones óptimas de almacenamiento del caqui producido bajo cultivo ecológico. Según los resultados, no se deben almacenar los frutos cosechados con firmeza inferior a 30 N. La calidad del fruto durante la conservación dependió de las condiciones de almacenamiento, momento de aplicación del tratamiento de deastringencia y estado de madurez inicial. Por último, en los Capítulos VI y VII se abordó la evaluación bajo condiciones mediterráneas de 14 variedades de caquis no-astringentes procedentes de otros países. Se identificaron las variedades tempranas y tardías que pueden ser potencialmente interesantes para ampliar el período de cosecha en nuestra región. Los estudios postcosecha mostraron que todas las variedades estudiadas presentan una buena aptitud para ser comercializadas en los mercados nacionales y europeos. Sin embargo, la sensibilidad a los daños por frío que presentaron algunas de las variedades estudiadas podría limitar su comercialización a países de ultramar. Además, se observó que la respuesta al tratamiento con 1-MCP, para el control de los daños por frío, dependió en gran medida de la variedad.<br>[CA] En les últimes dues dècades, la producció de caqui a Espanya ha augmentat exponencialment i la superfície de cultiu s'ha multiplicat quasi per huit vegades. En l'actualitat, la producció de caqui està centralitzada en el la cultivar 'Rojo Brillante', que és mundialment apreciat. Malgrat això, aquesta centralització suposa d'una banda una important limitació comercial, ja que la producció es concentra en un període de collita relativament curt i, d'altra banda implica un alt risc fitosanitari. En la present Tesi s'aborden dos objectius principals: 1) Optimització de la tecnologia pre i postcollita amb la finalitat de garantir la qualitat del caqui 'Rojo brillante' durant la frigoconservació i el transport a mercats internacionals. 2) Avaluació del comportament de varietats introduïdes d'altres regions productores sota condicions mediterrànies amb la finalitat d'ampliar el rang varietal de caqui. En el Capítol I es van esclarir les causes de l l'enfosquiment intern. La temperatura a la qual s'exposa la fruita immediatament després de l'aplicació del tractament de desastringència amb altes concentracions de CO¿ es va identificar com el principal factor implicat en aquesta alteració. Els resultats obtinguts van mostrar que aquesta alteració es pot evitar mitjançant la implementació d'un període de temperat de 24 h després del tractament amb CO¿, abans de transferir la fruita a baixes temperatures. En el Capítol II es va avaluar l'eficàcia d'un tractament de desastringència recentment patentat basat en l'aplicació d'una nova cera que conté etanol en la seua formulació en caquis 'Rojo Brillante' i 'Triumph'. Els resultats van mostrar que aquesta cera podria ser una alternativa al tractament convencional de desastringència amb altes concentracions de CO¿ quan la fruita s'envia a mercats llunyans a baixes temperatures. L'aplicació de la nova cera abans de conservació en fred va provocar la pèrdua d'astringència de la fruita després de 30 dies a 0 °C, preservant la fermesa i la qualitat interna. Els resultats del Capítol III van demostrar que l'aplicació de dos tractaments d'àcid giberèlic (AG) en precollita permet retardar el procés de maduració de la fruita en l'arbre respecte a una sola aplicació. La combinació de AG en precollita i 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP) en postcollita va incrementar la qualitat del fruit durant la frigoconservació en comparació amb l'aplicació únicament de 1-MCP. A més, la fruita tractada amb múltiples aplicacions de AG va mostrar una fermesa lleugerament major després de conservació a baixa temperatura; no obstant això, una sola aplicació de AG també va ser eficaç per a previndre la manifestació de danys per fred en la fruita. En el Capítol IV es va demostrar que, paral·lelament al retard de la maduració, el tractament amb AG també retarda la senescència del calze, incrementant la qualitat externa del fruit. La senescència del calze durant la maduració del fruit es va relacionar amb una disminució dels paràmetres de fluorescència de clorofil·la (Fo, Fm i Fv/Fm). En el Capítol V es van estudiar les condicions òptimes d'emmagatzematge del caqui produït baix cultiu ecològic. D'acord amb els resultats obtinguts, no s'han d'emmagatzemar els fruits collits amb fermesa inferior a 30 N. La conservació del fruit va dependre de les condicions d'emmagatzematge, moment d'aplicació del tractament de desastringència i estat de maduresa de la fruita. Finalment, en els Capítols VI i VII es va abordar l'avaluació de 14 varietats de caquis no-astringents. Es van identificar les varietats primerenques i tardanes que poden ser potencialment interessants per a ampliar el període de collita. D'altra banda, els estudis postcollita van mostrar que totes les varietats estudiades presenten una bona aptitud per a ser comercialitzades en els mercats nacionals i europeus. No obstant això, la sensibilitat als danys per fred que van presentar algunes de les varietats estudiades podria limitar la seua comercialització a països d'ultramar. A més, es va observar que la resposta al tractament amb 1-MCP, per al control dels danys per fred, va dependre en gran manera de la varietat.<br>[EN] In the last two decades, persimmon production in Spain has increased exponentially and the cultivation area has expanded almost eight-fold. The current production of persimmon is focused on the cultivar 'Rojo Brillante', which is appreciated worldwide due to the high quality of the fruit. Nevertheless, centralized production of this single cultivar implies a major commercial limitation as its high volume of production is concentrated in a relative short harvesting period. Furthermore, it also implies a high phytosanitary risk. In this context, this Thesis addresses two main objectives: 1) Optimization of pre- and postharvest technology in order to guarantee the quality of 'Rojo Brillante' persimmon after cold storage and transportation to overseas markets. 2) Evaluation of the behavior of foreign varieties of persimmon under Mediterranean conditions in order to extend the varietal range. The first objective of this Thesis was tackled through the studies presented in Chapters I to V. The second objective was covered in Chapters VI and VII. Chapter I dealt with the causes of internal browning disorder manifested after cold shipment of 'Rojo Brillante' persimmons to overseas markets. The temperature to which fruit is exposed immediately after CO2 deastringency treatment was identified as the main factor involved in this alteration. Our results showed that this disorder can be avoided by implementing an attemperation period of 24 h after the CO2 treatment, before transferring fruit to cold storage. In Chapter II, the effectiveness of a recently patented deastringency treatment based on applying a new wax containing ethanol was assayed in 'Rojo Brillante' and 'Triumph' persimmons. The use of this new ethanol-based wax could be a potential alternative to the conventional CO2 deastringency treatment when the fruit are sent to distant overseas markets at low temperatures. Application of the new wax before cold storage led to loss of fruit astringency after 30 days at 0 °C while preserving fruit firmness and internal quality. The results of Chapter III demonstrated that two applications of gibberellic acid (GA) made it possible to delay the fruit maturity process on the tree more than with just a single application. The combination of GA and 1-methylciclopropene (1-MCP) preserved the fruit quality better than with the application of 1-MCP alone during cold storage. Moreover, the fruit treated by multiple GA applications showed a slightly higher firmness after cold storage. However, a single GA application was also effective in preventing the manifestation of chilling injury (CI) in fruit. Chapter IV demonstrated that in parallel to delaying maturity, the GA treatment also delayed calyx senescence, which meant that the fruit preserved a good appearance. The calyx lobe senescence during fruit ripening was linked to a decrease in all Chlorophyll Fluorescence Imaging (CFI) parameters (Fo, Fm, and Fv/Fm). Chapter V addressed the optimization of storage conditions for organic persimmons. According to our results, fruit harvested with a firmness lower than 30 N must not be stored. Fruit harvested with a higher level of firmness could be stored for up to three weeks depending on the storage conditions, the moment of application of the CO2 deastringency treatment, and the stage of fruit maturity. The longest storage period (3 weeks) was achieved when fruit were harvested with a firmness of around 45 N, submitted to CO2 treatment and then stored at 15 °C. Finally, 14 foreign varieties grown under Mediterranean conditions were evaluated to identify early- and late-season varieties with potential to extend the harvesting period. This is presented in Chapters VI and VII. In general, all the evaluated varieties fulfilled the quality criteria to be commercialized in domestic and European markets. However, sensitivity to CI was variety dependent and response to 1-MCP treatment was also observed to depend on the variety.<br>This study has been supported by the Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria de España (INIA) and Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) through the projects RTA 2013-00043-C02-01 and RTA2017-00045-C02-01. In addition, it has been supported by the Valencian Institute for Agricultural Research (Project N° 51910). This study has also been founded by the Consellería de Educación, Investigación, Cultura y Deporte de la Comunidad Valenciana (project GV/2016/183). Ayoub Fathi Najafabadi thanks the INIA for grant FPI-INIA #43 (CPD2015-0151). The authors thank Fomesa Fruitech S.L.U. and Natural Hand S. L. for their technical support, Cooperativa Agrícola Ntra Sra de Loreto for its technical support and for making the plots and fruit used in this study available and Plant Production Department (Instituto Valenciano de Investigaciones Agrarias) for providing the fruit weight data and the photographs of the different varieties.<br>Fathi Najafabadi, A. (2021). Optimization of postharvest Technology for "Rojo brillante" Persimmon and Introduction of New Varieties in the Mediterranean Area [Tesis doctoral]. Universitat Politècnica de València. https://doi.org/10.4995/Thesis/10251/171252<br>TESIS<br>Compendio

Sistemas redundantes sujeitos à inspeção periódica são amplamente utilizados nas indústrias, especialmente naqueles processos que envolvem alto risco operacional. Inspeções periódicas são realizadas a fim de identificar e recuperar eventuais falhas de componentes antes da falha do sistema. Inspeções frequentes melhoram a confiabilidade e disponibilidade do sistema, mas envolvem maiores custos de manutenção preventiva. Por outro lado, períodos longos entre inspeções diminuem os custos com inspeções, mas aumentam os riscos de falha do sistema. Desta forma, o principal objetivo deste trabalho é a análise de confiabilidade e a otimização do intervalo entre inspeções de sistemas redundantes sujeitos a inspeções periódicas, a fim de garantir a confiabilidade desejada, juntamente com o menor custo possível. Para analisar a confiabilidade de sistemas redundantes aplicados na prática, inicialmente é realizada uma pesquisa para a identificação dos tipos e características de sistemas redundantes utilizados pelas empresas e dos métodos empregados para a manutenção desses sistemas. Identificadas suas deficiências, um modelo inicial de fácil aplicação que melhore a confiabilidade dos sistemas redundantes estudados é determinado. Na sequência, são desenvolvidos modelos mais sofisticados para a otimização do intervalo entre inspeções, através da minimização dos custos totais envolvidos na manutenção, a fim de garantir a competitividade do processo sem sacrificar a sua confiabilidade. Visto que o reparo imediato é uma suposição que não reflete totalmente a realidade, a próxima etapa envolve a consideração do tempo de reparo para a incrementação do modelo. Por fim, o aprimoramento do modelo envolve a introdução de degradação nos componentes do sistema, que passam a envelhecer com o tempo, aumentando sua taxa de falha. Como resultados têm-se: a elaboração de um quadro comparativo de tipos de redundâncias e métodos de análise de confiabilidade e gestão da manutenção utilizados e recomendados, o desenvolvimento de tabelas e gráficos de simples utilização que permitem a determinação do intervalo entre inspeções mais adequado e o desenvolvimento de um método para otimização do intervalo entre inspeções de sistemas com e sem tempo de reparo e que sofrem ou não degradação, através da minimização dos custos totais de manutenção.<br>Redundant systems subject to periodic inspections are utilized to decrease high levels of operational risk across different industries. Periodic inspections are utilized to identify and rectify component failures before complete system failure. Frequent inspections improve the system reliability and availability, but require higher preventive maintenance costs. On the other hand, long periods between inspections decrease inspection costs while also increasing the risk of system failure. The main objective of this thesis is to optimize the time intervals between periodic inspections of redundant systems to ensure the required reliability at the lowest cost possible. To analyze the reliability of redundant systems used in real situations, interviews were conducted with maintenance managers from industry leading companies. These interviews identified the types, characteristics, and maintenance methods of the redundant systems that are actually used at these firms. Once their deficiencies were identified, an initial model to improve the redundant system’s reliability was created. Next, more sophisticated models were developed to optimize the time interval between inspections which minimized maintenance costs. Given that instantaneous repair cannot be assumed in many situations, the next step integrated time to repair into the model as a random variable. Finally, the model was further improved by taking into consideration systems comprised of components that degrade over time, thus increasing their failure rate. Redundant systems subject to periodic inspections are utilized to decrease high levels of operational risk across different industries. Periodic inspections are utilized to identify and rectify component failures before complete system failure. Frequent inspections improve the system reliability and availability, but require higher preventive maintenance costs. On the other hand, long periods between inspections decrease inspection costs while also increasing the risk of system failure. The main objective of this thesis is to optimize the time intervals between periodic inspections of redundant systems to ensure the required reliability at the lowest cost possible. To analyze the reliability of redundant systems used in real situations, interviews were conducted with maintenance managers from industry leading companies. These interviews identified the types, characteristics, and maintenance methods of the redundant systems that are actually used at these firms. Once their deficiencies were identified, an initial model to improve the redundant system’s reliability was created. Next, more sophisticated models were developed to optimize the time interval between inspections which minimized maintenance costs. Given that instantaneous repair cannot be assumed in many situations, the next step integrated time to repair into the model as a random variable. Finally, the model was further improved by taking into consideration systems comprised of components that degrade over time, thus increasing their failure rate

Objetivo: Identificar los factores de riesgo asociado a las infecciones del tracto urinario por entero bacterias productoras de betalactamasa en pacientes hospitalizados del Servicio de medicina en el Hogar Clínica San Juan de Dios, Lima, en el periodo comprendido entre Enero a Octubre del 2015 Material y métodos: Se utilizó un diseño analítico, observacional, de casos y control. La población estuvo formada por todo paciente hospitalizado en el HCSJD que tuvo registro de cultivo de Escherichia coli y Klebsiella neumoniae durante el período enero a octubre 2015. Pues bien, se estudiaron 224 pacientes (54 casos y 170 controles); se definió como caso a todo paciente con registro de un cultivo positivo para BLEE y como control a todo paciente con ITU no BLEE. Resultados: De 224 pacientes en el estudio, presento mayor frecuencia la producción de ITU por E, coli (74,1% de los casos). Siendo el sexo femenino y los > de 65 años los de mayor casuística, sin significación estadística.se obtuvo en el análisis multivariado que el uso de antibiótico previo (OR=3,095; IC95%=[1,419-6,750], p=0,003), la presencia de ITU previa (OR=3,395; IC95%=[1,781-6,479], p=0,000 ), el uso de cateterismo urinario (OR=2,33; IC95%=[1,236-4,404], p=0,008), la comorbilidad subyacente (OR=3,856; IC95%=[1,449-10,262], p=0,004) son factores de riesgo para ITU BLEE. Siendo el uso de cefalosporinas y la presencia de enfermedad metabólica los de mayor frecuencia. Conclusiones: Se encontró una alta frecuencia de bacterias E. coli productoras de BLEE como agente etiológico siendo la comorbilidad subyacente el factor de riesgo con mayor relevancia en este estudio.

Orientador: Jose Camillo Novello<br>Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia<br>Made available in DSpace on 2018-08-14T12:47:52Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Dias_ErichdeCastro_M.pdf: 2721434 bytes, checksum: 5649b1cd35c4a6d4ef9aef257d027b24 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2009<br>Resumo: Neurotraumas periféricos, situação recorrente atualmente na humanidade, resultam em reorganizações e modificações tanto do sistema nervoso periférico que foi lesado quanto do sistema nervoso central, mais especificamente da medula espinhal na tentativa de reparar o dano gerado. O período pós-natal apresenta intensa plasticidade neuronal medular já que é o intervalo no qual a medula espinhal apresenta a maior capacidade de sofrer alterações e rearranjos dependentes de estímulos internos e externos, sendo assim, podem ocorrer modificações em seu desenvolvimento. Logo, este período é considerado ideal para estudos dos mecanismos envolvidos na degeneração e em possíveis reparos do tecido nervoso após um neurotrauma periférico. Visando contribuir para a elucidação dos mecanismos de neurodegeneração, este trabalho propôs um enfoque proteômico, área que na era pós-genômica tornou-se essencial tanto para a compreensão dos mecanismos que regem um organismo quanto para a análise comparativa entre duas condições contrastantes no mesmo organismo. Utilizando-se uma combinação entre as duas técnicas mais clássicas e usuais em estudos de proteoma, a eletroforese de duas dimensões e a espectrometria de massas, estudou-se o perfil proteômico da medula espinhal de ratos com sete dias de vida em duas situações distintas, uma que sofreu axotomia do nervo ciático com dois dias de vida, e a outra que não sofreu tal lesão, com a finalidade de conhecer as proteínas diferencialmente expressas nas duas classes e sugerir suas prováveis funções biológicas. Dentre essas, foram identificadas proteínas responsáveis diretamente e indiretamente pela desintoxicação celular e combate as espécies reativas de oxigênio como a catalase, a glutationa S-trasnferase Mu1 e a glicose 6-fosfato 1-desidrogenase, além da proteína dissulfeto isomeraseA3 que participa do processo oxidativo. Proteínas estruturais como a tubulina ß-5 e a anexina A6 também foram identificadas. Infere-se, dessa forma, que essas e outras proteínas podem representar alvos moleculares importantes para futuros tratamentos visando à diminuição da degeneração e o reparo de uma lesão nervosa periférica.<br>Abstract: Peripheral neurotraumas are a common situation nowadays in humanity. These nerve damages results in reorganizations and modifications over the own injured peripheral nerve system and over the central nerve system, more specifically over the spinal cord due the attempt to repair the damage. The post-natal period shows intense neuronal plasticity on spinal cord because the spinal cord ability to suffer alterations and rearrangements due internal and external stimuli, therefore maybe occur modifications in your development. Therefore, this period is ideal for study the involved mechanisms in nerve degeneration and nerve tissue repair after a neurotrauma. Trying to contribute with the degeneration mechanisms elucidation, this study proposed a proteomic approach, field which in the post-genomic era has become essential for both, to understanding all the pathways which controls an organism as to comparative analysis between two different conditions of the same organism. Using the two most useful and classical techniques combination for proteomics labor, which are two dimension electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, was studied a seven days of life rat's spinal cord proteomic profile in two different situations: in the first, the rats had suffered sciatic nerve section with two days of life and other that the rats had not suffered any trauma in sciatic nerve. The purpose is to know the differentially expressed proteins in the two classes and suggest their probable biological functions. Among these, proteins directly responsible for the cell detoxification and combat the reactive oxygen species were identified, like a catalase, a Glutathione S-transferase Mu 1 and a Glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase. Structural proteins like a ß-5 Tubulin and Protein disulfide isomerase A3 were indentified too. Thus it, these and other proteins could represent important molecular targets to future treatments aiming the post trauma degeneration decrease and the peripheral nerve injury repair.<br>Mestrado<br>Bioquimica<br>Mestre em Biologia Funcional e Molecular

Submitted by Renata Lopes (renatasil82@gmail.com) on 2016-10-06T17:59:14Z No. of bitstreams: 1 christianemariameureralves.pdf: 1154792 bytes, checksum: 93b03559e6d95acbb4dbb3661f857e03 (MD5)<br>Approved for entry into archive by Adriana Oliveira (adriana.oliveira@ufjf.edu.br) on 2016-10-07T12:14:33Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 1 christianemariameureralves.pdf: 1154792 bytes, checksum: 93b03559e6d95acbb4dbb3661f857e03 (MD5)<br>Made available in DSpace on 2016-10-07T12:14:33Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 christianemariameureralves.pdf: 1154792 bytes, checksum: 93b03559e6d95acbb4dbb3661f857e03 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2009-02-13<br>Introdução: O câncer de colo de útero, desde a década de 50, dispõe de um exame capaz de detectá-lo em fase incipiente e curável. A disponibilidade do teste de Papanicolaou parece ser a principal motivação para a queda de mortalidade por câncer de colo de útero em vários países ao redor do mundo. Buscou-se com este estudo avaliar o comportamento da mortalidade por câncer de colo de útero e útero porção não especificada, no período de 1980-2005, no Estado de Minas Gerais. Optou-se pela utilização de modelo de regressão linear e pela abordagem idadeperíodo-coorte. Material e Métodos: Foram coletados os dados de óbito e população disponíveis no DATASUS. Para avaliação da tendência de mortalidade por idade e período, utilizou-se o modelo de regressão linear; as taxas também foram log-transformadas para que se obtivesse o percentual de mudança da mortalidade por ano. A análise período-coorte foi feita através do método não paramétrico de Tarone e Chu. Resultados: Encontrou-se queda na mortalidade por câncer de colo de útero e útero porção não especificada para a análise idade e período. A redução foi principalmente relacionada com os casos de câncer de útero porção não especificada. Na análise idade-período-coorte houve redução menor que a esperada para as coortes de 1901-1908 e 1921-1928. Houve redução maior que a esperada para as coortes de 1913-1920, 1929-1932, 1937-1946, 1949-1956, 19631970 e 1969-1976. Encontrou-se ainda redução maior que a esperada para o período de 2000-2001. Conclusão: Foi evidenciada a redução da mortalidade por câncer de colo de útero e útero porção não especificada no Estado de Minas Gerais no período estudado. Os achados mostram influência das coortes de nascimento sobre a queda da mortalidade.<br>Introduction: Cervical cancer has had since the fifties, an exam capable of detecting it in its early and curable stage. The availability of the Papanicolaou smear test seems to be the principal reason for the fall in the mortality due to cervical cancer in many countries throughout the world. The aim of this study was to assess the trends of the mortality due to cervical cancer and uterus not otherwise specified (NOS) in the period from 1980-2005, in the state of Minas Gerais. We opted for the model of linear regression and the age-period-cohort approach. Material and Methods: Data related to death and population available at DATASUS were collected. To assess the tendency of mortality by age and period the approach of linear regression was used; the taxes were also log transformed in order to obtain the percentage of change in the mortality by year. The period-cohort analysis was carried out using Tarone & Chu’s non parametric method. Results: A reduction in the mortality due to cervical cancer and uterus not otherwise specified (NOS) for the age and period analyzed was found. The reduction was mainly related with the cases of cancer of uterus not otherwise specified (NOS). In the age-period-cohort analysis the reduction was less than expected for the cohorts from 1901-1908 and 1921-1928. There was a reduction bigger than expected for the cohorts from 1913-1920, 1929-1932, 1937-1946, 19491956, 1963-1970 and 1969-1976. It was also found a bigger reduction than expected for the period from 2000-2001. Conclusion: The reduction in the mortality due to cervical cancer and uterus not otherwise specified (NOS) in the state of Minas Gerais was unmistakable in the period studied. The findings show the influence of the birth cohorts over the decrease in mortality.

Dissertação de Mestrado Integrado em Medicina Veterinária<br>O presente trabalho foi realizado no âmbito do estágio de Mestrado Integrado em Medicina Veterinária da FMV-UTL, realizado no Posto de Inspeção Fronteiriço de Lisboa da Direção-Geral de Alimentação e Veterinária. Teve como objetivo prático verificar a ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Listeria monocytogenes e realizar a contagem de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva e E. coli em produtos da pesca proveniente de países terceiros no período de setembro de 2010 a março de 2011. Das 30 amostras analisadas (crustáceos, moluscos bivalves e delícias do mar), todas apresentaram resultados negativos na pesquisa em 25 g, relativamente a Salmonella spp. e L. monocytogenes. No que diz respeito à contagem de Staphylococcus coagulase positivos e E. coli os resultados apresentados foram, respetivamente, inferiores a 100 ufc/g de produto e a 1 ufc/g de produto, valores considerados seguros no momento da ingestão dos alimentos, de acordo com os atuais critérios microbiológicos. Com base nos resultados obtidos conclui-se que as amostras analisadas apresentaram baixos níveis de ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e L. monocytogenes e de Staphylococcus coagulase positivos e E. coli. Ainda assim, é importante a vigilância da qualidade dos produtos da pesca, a exigência constante de implementação de boas práticas e a aplicação de sistema pró-ativos de segurança dos alimentos na cadeia dos produtos da pesca, na captura e produção em aquicultura de produtos da pesca, na comercialização, nas indústrias, bem como nos procedimentos de transporte e de receção nos postos de inspeção fronteiriços.<br>ABSTRACT - EVALUATION OF MICROBIOLOGIC HAZARDS IN IMPORTED FISHING PRODUCTS - BORDER INSPECTION POST OF LISBOA PORT - The present work was developed for the internship of the integrated Master’s in Veterinarian Medicine, of the FMV-UTL, and carried out at the Lisbon Border Inspection Post, of the Portuguese National Authority for Animal Health (Direção-Geral de Alimentação e Veterinária). Its objective was to verify the occurrence of Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes and to perform the enumeration of coagulase positive Staphylococcus and E. coli in fish coming from third countries, from September 2010 to March 2011. All 30 analyzed samples (crustaceans, bivalve molluscs and crab sticks) presented negative results for Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes, in 25 g. Regarding the counting of Coagulase positive Staphylococcus and E. coli, results showed less than 100 cfu/g of product and less than 1 cfu/g of product, respectively, values which, according to the current microbiological criteria, are considered safe. On the basis of the results obtained, it is concluded that the analyzed samples presented low levels of occurrence of Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes, as well as Coagulase positive Staphylococcus and E. coli. Even so, it is important to monitor the quality of the fishing products, and to continue to promote the implementation of good practices, and of pro-active food safety systems in the fish chain, in the capture and production of fishing products for and in aquaculture, in the commercialization, in the industries, and also in the transportation procedures and product reception at the border inspection posts.

Introdução - A prática de reúso pela aplicação de esgotos tratados na agricultura atualmente é considerada parte integrante dos recursos hídricos por muitas nações. No entanto, oferece riscos à saúde da população pela presença de bactérias, cistos de protozoários, ovos de helmintos e vírus, capazes de sobreviver por longos períodos em ambientes desfavoráveis e apresentarem um curto tempo entre a infecção e o desenvolvimento da doença. Objetivo - Estabelecer medidas preventivas para o lançamento de efluentes nos ecossistemas aquáticos, controle sanitário na redução de patógenos transmitidos por águas contaminadas e a disposição de efluentes tratados em solos tropicais como ferramentas de auxílio do manejo integrado dos recursos hídricos em bacias hidrográficas, por meio do uso de metodologia de gerenciamento de risco com aplicação do Sistema APPCC, em um conjunto de tecnologias na produção de efluente tratado de esgoto de origem doméstica para avaliar o potencial de emprego em solos agrícolas. Métodos - A pesquisa foi desenvolvida na estação de tratamento de esgoto e no campo experimental para pesquisas de utilização de efluente na agricultura no município de Lins. Os indicadores biológicos estudados e os pontos de amostragem foram determinados através da utilização da metodologia de controle de qualidade Análise de Perigos e Pontos Críticos de Controle (APPCC). Foram coletadas amostras do solo irrigado e dos poços de monitoramento do lençol freático. As amostras foram submetidas a análises físico-químicas, microbiológicas e parasitológicas. Aos resultados obtidos foi aplicada a Avaliação Quantitativa do Risco Microbiológico, para a determinação do risco anual de infecção. Resultados - O efluente final apresentou concentrações médias de 8,13x105 NMP/100 mL de coliformes totais e 4,69x105 NMP/100 mL de Escherichia coli, não sendo observados ovos de helmintos. O solo apresentou maior concentração de coliformes totais e E. coli na camada superficial 1,01x106 e 8,70x103, diminuindo ao longo da profundidade. Os ovos de helmintos foram encontrados entre a superfície e os 15 cm de profundidade em concentrações entre 0,07 e 0,87 ovos/g de peso seco. Foi constatada a presença de adenovírus em concentração de 3,56x105 cópias genômicas/g entre os 5 e 10 cm de profundidade em 2015. Nos poços de monitoramento foram constatadas concentrações de coliformes totais variando entre < 1,00 e 1,01x103 NMP/100 mL e E. coli entre <1,00 e 1,00x100 NMP/100 mL. Não foi observada a presença de vírus entéricos. O risco anual de infecção estimado para E. coli no efluente final foi 1,02x10-2 pppa, no solo variou entre 2,68x10-3 e 7,59x10-3 pppa e nos poços de monitoramento variou entre 1,42x10-8e 4,38x10-9 pppa. Para os ovos de helmintos observados no efluente do tratamento primário o risco anual de infecção calculado foi 4,04x10-2 pppa e no solo variou entre 9,57x10-1 e 9,76x10-1 pppa. Conclusões No período da pesquisa, as amostras dos sistemas de tratamento de esgoto e de irrigação demonstraram atender as expectativas de remoção de patógenos condizentes aos seus parâmetros de projeto, havendo restrições para seu lançamento em corpos hídricos e aplicação na agricultura. O solo mostrou capacidade de retenção dos organismos patogênicos nos primeiros 60 cm de profundidade, reduzindo as suas concentrações a níveis inferiores a 1,00 NMP/100 mL nos aquíferos.<br>Introduction - Currently, the practice of reuse through the application of treated sewage in agriculture considers an integral part of water resources for many nations. However, threatens the health of the population by the presence of bacteria, protozoan cysts, helminth eggs and viruses able to survive for long periods in harsh environments and present a short time between infection and development of disease. Objective - Establish preventive measures for the release of effluents on aquatic ecosystems, sanitary control in the reduction of pathogens transmitted by contaminated water and the disposal of treated effluent in tropical soils as aid tools in integrated management of water resources in river basins. For this purpose it was employed as risk management methodology the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points system (HACCP) in a set of technologies in the treated effluent production of domestic sewage to assess the employment potential in agricultural soils. Methods - The study was conducted in the sewage treatment plant and in an adjoining experimental field situated at Lins city. The biological indicators and the sampling points were determined by using the quality control methodology Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP). Samples of irrigated soil and groundwater monitoring wells were collected. The samples were subjected to analysis, physical-chemical, microbiological and parasitological. The results obtained was applied to Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QRMA), for determining the annual risk of infection. Results - The final effluent presented average concentrations of 8.13x105 MPN / 100 mL of total coliforms and 4.69x105 MPN / 100 mL of Escherichia coli, not being observed helminth eggs. The soil showed the highest concentration of total coliforms and E. coli in the surface layer and 1.01x106 8.70x103, decreasing along the depth. Eggs from helminths were found between the surface and 15 cm depth in concentrations from 0.07 to 0.87 eggs / g dry weight. It was found the presence of adenovirus in concentration 3.56x105 genomic copies / g between 5 and 10 cm depth in 2015. In monitoring wells total coliform concentrations were found ranging from <1.00 and 1.01x103 NMP / 100 mL and E. coli between <1.00 and 1.00x100 MPN / 100 mL. It was not observed the presence of enteric viruses. The estimated annual risk of infection to E. coli in the final effluent was 1.02x10-2 pppy, soil ranged from 2.68x10-3 and 7.59x10-3 pppy and monitoring wells ranged from 1.42x10-8 e 4.38x10-9 pppy. For helminth eggs observed in the effluent from the primary treatment, the annual risk of infection was calculated 4.04x10-2 pppy and soil ranged from 9.57x10-1 and 9.76x10-1 pppy. Conclusions - During the survey period, samples of sewage and irrigation treatment systems showed meet the expectation removal of pathogens consistent to its design parameters, with restrictions on its release in water and applied in agriculture bodies. The soil of pathogenic organisms showed retention capacity in the first 60 cm depth by reducing its concentration to levels below 1.00 MPN / 100 mL in aquifers.

The aim of this study is to elucidate factors that effect growth of Sarcina lutea and Bacillus subtilis, exposed to the growth inhibitor SDS (Sodiumdodecylsulfat). Agar diffusion experiments revealed repeated, concentric zones of inhibition and stimulation upon exposure to Sodiumdodecylsulphate or to Amoxicillin. Temperature, nutrient concentration and inhibitor concentration were controlled. Formation of successively repeated zones of inhibition, stimulation, inhibition and stimulation is discussed: •The extension of the primary inhibition zone is due to the concentration of applied Sodium dodecyl sulphate.•Immediately outside the primary inhibition zone the bacteria have access to diffusing nutrients that have not been consumed in the primary inhabitation zone.•In zones of dense bacterial growth the bacteria may produce inhibiting substances, affecting growth of bacteria in adjacent zones.•In zones of dense bacterial growth the nutrients will soon become depleted, thus affecting bacteria in adjacent zones.

Submitted by Nathália Faria da Silva (nathaliafsilva.ufv@gmail.com) on 2017-06-07T19:06:03Z No. of bitstreams: 1 texto completo.pdf: 161327 bytes, checksum: c08be643bd0dc9f91fdd79dc6c9fc14b (MD5)<br>Made available in DSpace on 2017-06-07T19:06:03Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 texto completo.pdf: 161327 bytes, checksum: c08be643bd0dc9f91fdd79dc6c9fc14b (MD5) Previous issue date: 2002-08-29<br>Esse estudo foi realizado para avaliar a contaminação superficial de carcaças suínas quanto à contagem padrão de aeróbios mesófilos (CPAM), número mais provável (NMP) de coliformes totais (CT), coliformes fecais (CF) e Escherichia coli (EC), pesquisa de Salmonella sp, e contagem de estafilococos coagulase positivo e Staphylococcus aureus; identificar perigos microbiológicos em diferentes etapas do abate e pontos críticos de controle (PCCs), através da quantificação de riscos (“Odds Ratio” - OD). 120 esfregaços superficiais de carcaça suína foram coletados em um matadouro-frigorífico localizado no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, após o escaldamento/depilação (ponto A), antes da evisceração (ponto B), após evisceração e serragem da carcaça (ponto C) e após 24 horas de refrigeração (ponto D). O ponto A apresentou uma contaminação significantemente maior que os pontos B, C e D para CPAM (5,26 logUFC/cm 2 ), CT, CF e EC (1,72, 1,31 e 0,56 logNMP/cm 2 , respectivamente); com OD quantificado em 16,43, 17,88, 20,00 e 13,50, respectivamente. Salmonella sp, estafilococos coagulase positivo e S. aureus foram encontrados com uma frequência média de 11,66% (14), 25% (30) e 11,66% (14), respectivamente, e não houve diferença estatística entre os pontos A, B, C e D. Estafilococos coagulase positivo e S. aureus foram encontrados entre 1,45 – 1,70 logUFC/cm 2 e 1,15 – 1,23 logUFC/cm 2 , respectivamente, sem diferença estatística entre os pontos avaliados. Logo, os riscos de contaminação por esses patógenos não foram quantificados e foram os mesmos nas diferentes etapas do abate de suínos.<br>This study was done to evaluate the superficial contamination of swine carcasses by mesophilic aerobic plate count (MAPC), total coliforms (TC), fecal coliforms (FC) and Escherichia coli (EC), Salmonella sp, coagulase positive staphylococci and Staphylococcus aureus; identification of hazards microbiological in differents segments of the processing line and critical control points (CCPs) through the quantification of risks. 120 surface swabbing carcasses were collected in a Minas Gerais state slaughterhouse: after the scalding/dehairing (A point), before evisceration, (B point), after evisceration and splitting (C point) and after 24 hours of refrigeration (D point). Carcasses were heavily contaminated in the A point compared with B, C and D points and the average of MAPC was 5,26 logUFC/cm 2 , TC, FC and EC were 1,72, 1,31 e 0,56 logNMP/cm 2 , respectively; the Odds Ratio (OD) were 16,43, 17,88, 20,00 and 13,50, respectively. Salmonella sp, coagulase positive staphylococci and S. aureus were isolated from 14 (11,66%), 30 (25%) and 14 (11,66%), respectively, and not had difference statistics between the studied points. Coagulase positive staphylococci and S. aureus were isolated between 1,45 – 1,70 logUFC/cm 2 and 1,15 – 1,23 logUFC/cm 2 , respectively, and not had difference statistics between the A, B, C and D points. The ratios of risks of these pathogens were similar in the process slaughtering.

Este estudo teve como objetivo inicial avaliar a multiplicação de Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli em frutas e vegetais expostos a diferentes temperaturas. Para identificar as frutas e vegetais frequentemente servidos em buffet, foram visitados restaurantes comerciais (n=50), onde os principais alimentos encontrados foram: cenoura ralada, brócolis, pepino, repolho verde, tomate, melancia e mamão. Amostras desses vegetais foram adquiridas em supermercado local e processadas ou preparadas conforme modo de consumo, sendo então contaminadas artificialmente com um pool de S. aureus e E. coli, separadamente, e expostos a 10, 20 e 30 °C. Os resultados desses experimentos demonstraram que não houve multiplicação dessas bactérias nas frutas e vegetais expostos a 10 °C durante 6 h. A 20 e 30 °C, S. aureus demonstrou multiplicação mais rápida no brócolis, onde a fase estacionária iniciou em menos de 2 h, possivelmente por este ser o único alimento cozido nesse estudo. Observou-se também que a 30 °C, E. coli se multiplicou em menos de 2 h nos seguintes alimentos: mamão, pepino, melancia e brócolis. Já no tomate, S. aureus não se multiplicou em nenhuma temperatura avaliada. No entanto, a população final de E. coli no tomate atingiu 9,7 log, em 24 h, a 30 °C, apesar do baixo pH (4,21). Por esse motivo e porque o tomate foi o vegetal mais frequentemente servido nos restaurantes comerciais avaliados, foi utilizado o modelo primário de Baranyi para modelar os parâmetros cinéticos de multiplicação e o modelo secundário de Ratkowsky para modelar a taxa de multiplicação e o tempo de fase lag em função da temperatura de E. coli no tomate, exposto a temperaturas de 10 a 37 °C. Os resultados obtidos indicaram que a fase lag da E. coli no tomate foi de 2,13 h e 2,46 h quando exposto a 37 e 30 °C, enquanto que a 20 e 10 °C, as fases lag foram de 15,6 h e 42,5 h, respectivamente. O modelo secundário foi integrado em uma simulação com dados nacionais de temperaturas reais coletados em planilhas de serviços de alimentação de 225 restaurantes de três regiões do Brasil (Sul, Sudeste e Norte/Nordeste). Aplicando o modelo gerado, foi observado que E. coli é capaz de se multiplicar em tomate em 1,58 h a 29,3 °C, temperatura mais crítica encontrada na cadeia de distribuição do tomate. Em seguida, realizou-se outro estudo no intuito de avaliar o comportamento de S. aureus em brócolis tratados termicamente, visto que este micro-organismo obteve um grande potencial de multiplicação nesse alimento. Também foram desenvolvidos modelos primário e secundário para avaliar a multiplicação do S. aureus em brócolis expostos a temperaturas de 10 a 37 °C. Nesse alimento, a fase lag de S. aureus foi de 1,4 h quando o vegetal foi exposto a 30 e 37 °C; enquanto que a 20 e 10 °C as fases lag foram de 5,3 h e 160 h, respectivamente. O modelo secundário foi capaz de descrever a influência da temperatura (de 10 a 37 °C) sobre a taxa de multiplicação e a fase lag de S. aureus em brócolis. Os resultados demonstraram que as frutas e vegetais avaliados podem ser distribuídas sob temperaturas de refrigeração de 10 °C ou menos e não devem ser mantidas mais de 2 h em temperaturas próximas de 30 a 37 oC, a fim de evitar a multiplicação bacteriana. Tais parâmetros podem contribuir na gestão de segurança dos alimentos em serviços de alimentação, prevenindo Doenças Transmitidas por Alimentos.<br>This study aimed to evaluate the multiplication of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli on fruits and vegetables exposed to different temperatures. To identify the fruits and vegetables most frequently served in buffet, commercial restaurants (n=50) were visited, where the main foods found were: grated carrots, broccoli, cucumber, green cabbage, tomato, watermelon and papaya. Samples of these vegetables were purchased from the local supermarket and processed or prepared according to the mode of consumption and were then artificially contaminated with a pool of S. aureus and E. coli separately and exposed at 10, 20 and 30 ° C. The results of these experiments demonstrated that these microorganisms did not grow on fruits and vegetables exposed to 10 °C during 6 h. At 20 and 30 ° C, S. aureus showed faster multiplication on broccoli, where the stationary phase started in less than 2 h, possibly because this was the only food cooked in that study. It was also observed at 30 ° C, where E. coli multiplied in less than 2 h in the following foods: papaya, cucumber, watermelon and broccoli. On tomato, S. aureus did not multiply at any evaluated temperature. However, the final E. coli population in this same food reached 9.7 log CFU/g in 24 h at 30 ° C, despite the low fruit pH (4.21). For this reason, and because tomato was the most frequently served food in the evaluated commercial restaurants, the Baranyi primary model was used to model the kinetic parameters of multiplication and the Ratkowsky secondary model to model the multiplication rate and lag phase time as a function of the temperature of E. coli on tomato, which was exposed to temperatures of 10 to 37 °C.The results indicated that the lag phase of E. coli on tomato was 2.13 h and 2.46 h when exposed at 37 and 30 °C, respectively; while at 20 °C and 10 ° C the lag phases were 15.6 h and 42.5 h, in that order. The secondary model was integrated in a simulation with national real temperature data collected in food service of 225 restaurants in three regions of Brazil (Southern, Southeast and North / Northeast). Applying the generated model, it was observed that E. coli was able to grow on tomato at 1.58 h at 29.3 ° C, the most critical temperature found on tomato distribution chain. Another study developed was the behavior of S. aureus in heat treated broccoli, because this microorganism obtained a high growth potential for this food. Primary and secondary models were also developed to evaluate the behavior of S. aureus stored at 10-37 °C. The lag phase of broccoli was 1.4 h when the bacteria was exposed at 30 and 37 °C; while at 20 °C and 10 °C the lag phases were 5.3 h and 160 h, respectively. Secondary models were able to describe the influence of temperature (10-37 °C) on the growth rate and lag phase of S. aureus on broccoli. The results demonstrated that the evaluated fruits and vegetables can be distributed under refrigeration temperatures of 10 °C or less and should not be maintained for longer than 2 h at temperatures close to 30 to 37 °C in order to avoid bacterial multiplication. Such parameters can contribute to the management of food safety in food services, preventing Foodborne Diseases.

There is currently a great interest in developing alternative feeding strategies for animal health maintenance and disease prevention, in order to reduce the negative impact of removing antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) within the EU (EC Regulation 1831/2003), while minimizing the therapeutic use of antibiotics. The main theme of this research concerns the management of some health problems that frequently occur during the weaning of piglets, focusing in particular on the use of feed additives and immunogenic products derived from engineered plants. Three different trials were designed to study novel strategies for the control of two important diseases, caused by infection with Escherichia coli strains, typically occurring during the weaning phase of the piglet, specifically E. coli diarrhoea and Oedema Disease (OD). E. coli diarrhoea is a multifactorial disease responsible for heavy economic losses in pig production. The study of alternative strategies for the prevention of E. coli diarrhoea is limited by its variable incidence in the field and by the difficulty to reproduce the disease after experimental infection. For these reasons, the aim of the first study was to set up experimental conditions to simulate the outbreak of diarrhoea through a controlled E. coli challenge. Thirty-five healthy piglets, weaned at 33±2 days, from a selected farm, were divided into three experimental groups: control group (CG) including 5 piglets, infected group 1 (IG1) including 10 piglets and infected group 2 (IG2) including 20 piglets. One day after arrival, the piglets of IG1 and IG2 were orally inoculated with 3.7*10^8 CFU of E. coli O149 strain, while CG received 5 mL of sterile physiological saline. The animals were fasted for 3 hours before and after challenge and 30 mL of 10% NaHCO3 solution were individually administered 15 minutes before challenge. The IG and CG groups were fed with a diet containing a high level of protein (CP: 28%) for 3 days after infection. The health status, faecal score (0:normal; 1:soft; 2:liquid; 3:watery) and faecal colour (3:brown; 2:green; 1:yellow) were individually recorded daily for 20 days after challenge for IG1 and CG and for 2 days after challenge for IG2. Polymerase chain reaction, serotyping and biochemical identification were established for the evaluation of E. coli strains from faecal samples. The effects of the challenge were analyzed by multivariate repeated measures. Diarrhoea was observed in 96.67% (58.6% severe; 41.4% mild) of all infected piglets and occurred on average 1.3 days after challenge. The CG group presented one piglet with a transient mild diarrhoea. The E. coli challenge significantly affected the consistency and the colour of faeces (P<0.001). A significant correlation (r=-0.89; P<0.001) between faecal colour and consistency was found. 70% (14/20) of infected piglets with severe diarrhoea shed E. coli O149 in their faeces. The O149 challenger strain was detected in 17 out of 30 (56.7%) infected piglets two days after experimental infection, and 15 out of 17 isolated O149 E. coli strains (88%) were also haemolytic. Zootechnical parameters did not show significant differences. These findings support the view that, being post-weaning diarrhoea multifactorial, other factors have to be combined with the oral challenge to reproduce the disease under experimental conditions. We concluded that the experimental protocol described in this study can be used in the evaluation of nutritional strategies to prevent or control E. coli diarrhoea in weaned piglets. The two subsequent experimental works are part of a wider project, in which transgenic tobacco plants have been engineered for the seed-specific expression of antigens against verotoxin-producing E. coli (VTEC) strains responsible for OD. Novel strategies are required to control VTEC infections, considering that at present no vaccines are available and the treatment relies upon the use of antibiotics, which may contribute to the increase of antimicrobial resistance. In this context, plant-vaccines have considerable potential and represent a promising strategy for mucosal vaccination in terms of low costs, safety, storage, transportation and for the production of specific antibodies in the mucosa, where the major pathogens gain access to the body. In the present studies two different lines of tobacco seeds were previously transformed via agroinfection for the expression of two antigenic proteins of VTEC strains: the F18 fimbria, responsible for the adherence of the bacteria on small intestinal enterocytes, and the B subunits of verotoxin 2e (VT2e), responsible for binding the toxin to specific receptors on the cell surface. One of the most important issues related to the oral delivery of plant-based vaccines is the potential for antigen degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. For this reason, a preliminary trial was designed to evaluate the effect of swine gastric fluid, derived from weaned piglets, on the VT2e-B antigenic protein expressed in whole and milled tobacco seeds. Samples of transgenic tobacco seeds, both milled and whole, were incubated with porcine gastric fluid, at 38° C in a Dubnoff Shaker for 1, 2 and 3 hours. After gastric fluid removal, by centrifugation and washing with PBS, the samples were homogenized in the presence of a protein extraction buffer. Western blot was performed on representative samples of extracted proteins, quantified by the Bradford method, using rabbit polyclonal serum. The Vt2e-B specific signals were observed on SDS-page in all samples derived from transgenic tobacco seeds. Nevertheless, from 0 h to 3 h, a progressive reduction of intensity of the Vt2e-B specific signal was observed. No significant differences were detected on the reduction of signal intensity between samples derived from whole and milled tobacco seeds. Based on the results obtained, we could conclude that the residual amount of transgenic proteins after digestion of both milled and whole seeds appears sufficient for their use in immunization trials on piglets. Within the same project, the last trial was designed to evaluate the use of transgenic tobacco seeds expressing antigenic proteins of VTEC strains as edible vaccine in piglets. A total of 43 weaned piglets (20±2 days) were randomized into 4 groups. Three immunized groups (T1, T2, T3) orally received a bolus of tobacco seeds (TS) mixed with chocolate on days 0, 1, 2, 14 of the trial. In particular, the T1 group received 10 grams of TS-F18+ and 10 grams of TS-VT2e-B+, the T2 group received 10 grams of TS-VT2e-B+ and the T3 group received 25 grams of TS-VT2e-B+. Control Group (CG) received 20 grams of wild type TS. The amount of transgenic protein was estimated about 0.6 mg/gram of whole TS. In this immunization phase faecal and blood samples were collected weekly to evaluate IgA and IgG amounts by ELISA assays. On day 22, the piglets were orally challenged with 1*10^10 CFU of O138 Escherichia coli strain, using the experimental protocol described in the first trial. Faecal score, body temperature and clinical signs related to OD (palpebral oedema, epiphora, neurological and respiratory symptoms, vitality) were determined, daily for 15 days after challenge, for each piglet through specific point scales. Zootechnical performances and haematocrit percentages (HT) were evaluated during the experimental period. T1, receiving both the antigens, showed a higher level of IgA in faeces than other groups on day 21 (22,000±13,000 ng/ml vs control group: 7,200±3,000 ng/ml). No differences were observed among groups in relation to the total IgG titre in faeces and total IgA and IgG levels in serum. For each clinical sign, the average total score (the sum of the average daily score from day 1 to day 9 post-challenge) was significantly higher in the control group compared to orally immunized groups (P<0.05) and the latter showed a faster recovery than CG. In the same period (day 1 to 9 post-challenge), T1 showed a significantly higher consistency of faeces compared to T1 and T2 (P<0.05). No differences were observed in body temperature and HT. After challenge (day 21 to 25), the average daily feed intake (P<0.05) and the average daily gain were higher in T1 and T2 than CG. For all measured parameters, no differences were observed between T2 and T3, suggesting that no dose-response effect was shown for the Vt2e-B antigen in our experimental conditions. In conclusion, oral administration of recombinant tobacco seeds expressing antigenic proteins against VTEC strains can induce an increase of mucosal antibodies and a protective effect against the challenger strain in piglets. This represents a promising non-invasive method of vaccinating swine via their feed.

Introdução: A infecção genital pelo papilomavírus humano (HPV) é um fator necessário para o desenvolvimento do câncer cervical. Vacinas para prevenir a infecção pelos tipos de alto risco HPV 16 e 18 foram desenvolvidas e idealmente devem ser administradas antes da exposição ao HPV através do contato sexual. As variações na prevalência do HPV e na de seus tipos específicos em diferentes populações podem influenciar as recomendações da vacina contra o HPV em diferentes locais. A vacinação após o primeiro parto poderia ser uma estratégia em potencial para atingir mulheres jovens e saudáveis, dependendo da proporção de mulheres desse grupo ainda não infectadas pelos tipos de alto risco, HPV 16 e 18. Objetivos: O objetivo principal deste estudo foi determinar a prevalência genital do DNA de tipos específicos do HPV e avaliar a associação dessa infecção com fatores de risco selecionados em mulheres após o primeiro parto, usuárias de uma maternidade pública. Métodos: Esse estudo transversal foi realizado no Hospital Maternidade Leonor Mendes de Barros (HMLMB), uma das maiores maternidades públicas da cidade de São Paulo. Durante junho de 2006 até fevereiro de 2007, 301 primíparas de 15-24 anos, cujos partos ocorreram no referido Hospital, foram incluídas no estudo entre 43 e 60 dias após o parto. Na detecção de DNA do HPV extraído das células cervicais esfoliadas foi utilizado protocolo padrão da Reação em Cadeia por Polimerase (PCR), utilizando primers PGMY09/11. Para estimar a associação da infecção por HPV com fatores de risco selecionados, foi calculada a Razão de Prevalência (RP) e o intervalo de 95% de confiança [IC]; o ajuste foi realizado utilizando-se o Modelo Linear Generalizado (MLG) com distribuição binomial e função de ligação logarítmica. Resultados: O DNA do HPV foi detectado em 58,5% (IC 95% 52,7%-64,0%) das jovens mulheres. Os tipos de HPV mais comumente encontrados foram: HPV 16, HPV 51, HPV 52, HPV 58 e HPV 71. A prevalência dos tipos de HPV incluídos nas vacinas profiláticas foi: HPV 16 - 12,0%, HPV 18 - 2,3% e HPV 6+11 - 4,3%. Os tipos de alto risco de HPV foram encontrados em 133 (44,2%) mulheres, enquanto 43 delas (14,3%) apresentaram somente tipos de HPV de baixo risco. Cento e duas mulheres (33,9%) foram positivas para apenas um tipo de HPV; entretanto, 43 (14,3%) apresentaram dois tipos, e 31 (10,3%) apresentaram três ou mais tipos virais. A análise multivariada revelou que somente a idade (p=0,020) e o hábito de fumar (p <0,001) foram fatores de risco independentemente associados com a infecção por HPV. Conclusões: Essas adolescentes e jovens primíparas apresentaram elevada prevalência de infecção genital por tipos de alto risco do HPV, mostrando que constituem um grupo de risco para o desenvolvimento de câncer cervical. Contudo, apenas 17,3% apresentaram pelo menos um dos quatro tipos virais presentes na vacina quadrivalente (HPV 6, 11, 16 ou 18), 13,3% apresentaram infecção pelos tipos HPV 16 ou 18, e somente 1,0% apresentou concomitantemente infecção por esses dois tipos virais de alto risco presentes nas vacinas. Portanto, esse estudo indica que a grande maioria dessas jovens primíparas poderia ainda se beneficiar da imunização (catch-up) contra o HPV e constitui um grupo que deve ser alvo de programas efetivos de prevenção primária e secundária para o câncer cervical<br>Introdution: Genital infection by human papillomavirus (HPV) is a necessary factor in the development of cervical cancer. Vaccines to prevent infection by high risk HPV genotypes 16 and 18 were developed and ideally should be administered before exposure to HPV through sexual contact. Variations in HPV prevalence in different populations and of specific HPV types could affect vaccine recommendations in different settings. Vaccination after first delivery could be a potential strategy for reaching healthy young women depending on the baseline prevalence of high risk genotypes 16 and 18 in this target group. Objectives: The main objective of this study was to determine genital type specific HPV DNA prevalence and selected risk factors associated with HPV infection after the delivery of the first child among young women in a public maternity. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at Hospital Maternidade Leonor Mendes de Barros (HMLMB), one of the largest public maternity hospitals in Sao Paulo. During June 2006 to February 2007, 301 primiparous women aged 15-24 years, who gave birth at that hospital, were included in the study between 43 and 60 days after delivery. Detection of HPV DNA in cervical specimens was performed using a standardized polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol with PGMY09/11 primers. To estimate the association of HPV infection with selected risk factors, prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence interval [CI] were estimated using a Generalized Linear Model (GLM) with binomial distribution and log link function. Results: Any HPV DNA was detected in 58.5% (95% CI 52.7%-64.0%) of the enrolled young women. Most common types of HPV found were: HPV16, HPV51, HPV52, HPV58 and HPV71. The overall prevalence of HPV types targeted by the HPV prophylactic vaccines was: HPV16 - 12.0%, HPV18 -2.3% and HPV 6+11- 4.3%. High-risk HPV types were found in 133 (44.2%) women, whereas 43 women (14.3%) had only low-risk HPV types. One hundred and two women (33.9%) were positive for one HPV type only; however, 43 (14.3%) had two types, and 31 (10.3%) had three or more types detected. The multivariate analysis revealed that only age (p for trend =0.020) and smoking habits (p <0.001) were risk factors independently associated with HPV infection. Conclusions: These adolescents and young primiparous women had high cervical HPV prevalence, suggesting that this is a high risk group for cervical cancer development. Nevertheless, 17.3% were positive to any of the four HPV types included in HPV vaccines (HPV6, 11, 16 or 18), with 13.3% positive for HPV 16 or 18, and only 1.0% of them had both vaccine related oncogenic HPV types. Thus, this study supports that the most part of young primiparous women could benefit from catch-up HPV vaccination, and represents a target group for effective primary and secondary cervical cancer prevention programs

The Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.) fishery is of great economic importance to the Faroese economy. There are two separately managed cod stocks around the Faroe Islands, the Faroe Plateau and the Faroe Bank cod. Both have experienced dramatic decreases in size and informed management decisions are vital for both stock viability and exploitation. The stocks are geographically isolated by an 800 m deep channel and water temperatures are on average 1 – 2 ºC higher on the Faroe Bank than on the Faroe Plateau. There are clear phenotypic differences between the stocks; in particular, the markedly higher growth rate for the Faroe Bank cod has caught public and scientific attention. There is continuing debate regarding the relative importance of genetics and environmental contributions to the contrasting phenotypes. Analyses of reproductive parameters (field data and experimental captive spawnings) as well as analyses of microsatellite and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were undertaken to better resolve the issue. Field data as well as data from experimental captive spawnings provided evidence of reproductive differences between Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod. Peak spawning occurred earlier on the Faroe Plateau than on the Faroe Bank and this difference in timing of spawning was maintained in captivity. In particular, differences in sizes of eggs (average diameters of 1.40 and 1.30 mm for Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod eggs, respectively) and indirect evidence of greater volumes spawned by the Faroe Bank females suggested stock differences with respect to egg size – egg number trade-off. It was hypothesised that the strategy adopted by cod on the Faroe Bank, with a higher number of smaller eggs, evolved in response to a more hostile environment (bare seabed and higher exposure to predators) experienced by early life stages in this area. Experimental captive spawnings with Faroe Bank cod showed a large interfamily skew in survival rates of cod eggs and fry. Egg size was identified as a useful indicator of survival rates in the egg stage, but egg survival rates could not be used to predict viability in later developmental stages, thus highlighting the importance of employing some sort of genetic monitoring of cod fry to ensure sufficient family representation in the progeny. While no tank effect was evident concerning fry survival, a significant tank effect was identified concerning body sizes of fry. Microsatellite data were analysed using large sample sizes of Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod with the Faroe Plateau divided into two locations, Faroe Plateau North-East and Faroe Plateau West (cod from each of the two were known to belong to separate spawning grounds). Two Norwegian coastal cod samples were included as outlier populations. While no genetic differentiation was detected between the two Faroe Plateau locations, these analyses revealed a detectable, albeit relatively modest, degree of genetic differentiation between cod from the Faroe Plateau and the Faroe Bank (FST = 0.0014 and 0.0018; DJost_EST = 0.0027 and 0.0048; P < 0.0001 and P < 0.001 for the Faroe Plateau North-East – Faroe Bank and the Faroe Plateau West – Faroe Bank comparisons). These values were several times smaller than those between Faroese and Norwegian coastal cod (pairwise FST and DJost_EST values in the range of 0.0061 – 0.0137 and 0.0158 – 0.0386, respectively). Despite recent reductions in census population sizes for Faroe Plateau and, particularly, Faroe Bank cod, genetic diversity estimates were comparable to the ones observed for Norwegian coastal cod and there was no evidence of significant genetic bottlenecks. Lastly, data for one of the markers (Gmo132) indicated genotype-dependent vertical distribution of cod (as investigated for Faroe Plateau North-East cod). Contrary to some previously published studies, analysis of SNPs of two candidate genes for adaptive divergence, the hemoglobin gene Hb-ß1 and the transferrin gene Tf1, failed to detect differentiation between samples of Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod analysed in this thesis. Of 3533 novel SNPs simultaneously discovered and genotyped by restriction-site associated DNA (RAD) sequencing, 58 showed evidence of genetic differentiation between Faroe Plateau North-East and Faroe Bank cod (P < 0.05). No single locus was fixed for different alleles between Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod. A set of eight informative SNPs (FST values between Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank samples > 0.25; P < 0.0005) were selected for validation in larger samples, that included cod from both Faroe Plateau areas and the Faroe Bank as well as Norwegian coastal and White Sea cod. Six out of the eight loci amplified successfully with a PCR-based method and there was 100 % concordance between genotypes of individuals screened by both techniques. Due to ascertainment bias, the SNPs should only be applied with caution in a broader geographical context. Nonetheless, these SNPs did confirm the genetic substructure suggested for Faroese cod by microsatellite analyses. While no genetic differentiation was evident between the two Faroe Plateau locations, significant genetic differentiation was evident between Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod at five of the SNPs (FST values in the range of 0.0383 – 0.1914). This panel of five SNPs could confidently be used to trace groups of Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod to their population of origin. In conclusion, multiple lines of evidence demonstrate that Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod are truly two genetically distinct populations. While the findings contribute to a broader understanding of the biology and the genetics of Faroe Plateau and Faroe Bank cod, the novel SNPs developed may provide a valuable resource for potential future demands of i.e. genetic stock identification methods.

碩士<br>淡江大學<br>國際事務與戰略研究所<br>90<br>R.O.C. is a typical sea power state, and it need maritime interests to obtain national security and economic development. The major mission of ROCN （ROC Navy）is to control the distant waters, and sustain the security of SLOC. Whenever PLA intitate to invade Taiwan, ROCN ought to take strategic and tactical procedure, which are “effective deterrence”,”to check enemy on yonder shore”, “to strike enemy in transit”. Due to the need of state security adjustment must follow the change of national security environment and military power, so the Naval policy , which as the higher indirection of strategic plan must adjust in any time.Naval force buildup will cost much time, and it usually face the problems, which are how to make up the cleavages of naval force in present time. So the change of Naval policy must considerate of “naval force capability in present”,”naval force ability in present”,”PLA threaten in present”. Whenever the goal of naval force strategic and buildup had make up,the state need to considerate finacial situation and choose the proper force, such a process is a plan of force. This thesis will attempt to research ROCN policy from this viewpoint.After the end of Cold War, many powerful states take the limitation of armor and develop economic power, so the national circumstances come to a stable situation. Due to the growth of economic power of PRC, then it build up a strong naval force.But ROCN has not enough sources to counter the progress in guantity and quality of PRC naval force. So ROCN should enhance its power to use the sources, in order to defeat enemy, and ensure it can obtain the free of using ocean.

碩士<br>國立中山大學<br>大陸研究所<br>92<br>Japan’s China policy in the Period of Post-Cold War The Japanese-Chinese relationship is one of the most important variable in the formation of a new strategic environment in the Asia Pacific region. Japan faces China’s rising and under condition of U.S.-Japan alliance. Japan acts up to the maneuvers of “engagement when and if possible” and “containment of necessary”. Japan undergone a change which multi-seat electoral system in the post-cold war world, and this change has effect on the reign of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). And besides, Mr. Junichiro Koizumi、Mr. Hashimoto Ryutaro、and Mr. kiichi Miyazawa, Prime Minister of Japan who put great emphasis on Japan’s great power policy, as mentioned above, Japan domestic affairs had effect upon Japan’s China policy. Japan’s dualistic China policy, referred to as “engagement policy”.It intends to steer China towards a peaceful and sustainable path by assisting it with economic policy tools with “hedging” against any China’s convulsion. In sum, Japan employs the containment element of engagement policy through various policy level (unilateral、bilateral、and multilateral)in order to build stable and prosperity of the Asia pacific region.

碩士<br>淡江大學<br>國際事務與戰略研究所<br>92<br>The thesis is focused on the following issues: the elements of the regional security situation of Korean Peninsula in post-cold war period, the security environment of Korean Peninsula, and the security strategies to cope with the nuclear weapons of North Korea and to prevent from the large-scale destructive conflicts. I try to analyze the international relations of the North-Eastern Asia in cold war period by the power balance theory of Realism. How does the development and threat of North Korea alter the North-Eastern Asia power structure in post-cold war period? How does the other countries maintain the power structure balance to stop the large-scale destructive conflict in advance and cooperate with each other? The connection of North America and Europe can’t be explained by the Realism, while the development of East Asia can be discussed mainly by the Realism, and then, the cooperative theories. Conclusion: The significance of the six countries conferences is to set the example of multi-regional interaction in post-cold war period. If the counties involved are able to complete the multi-regional interaction system in East Asia, the threat of North Korea nuclear weapons will hopefully be solved peacefully in the future. Russia and China are allies of North Korea. Russia still pays much attention to Korean Peninsula affairs. Therefore, Russia and China are at the back of North Korea in the six countries conferences, while the United States, South Korea, and Japan are on the other side. Moreover, China is truly trusted by the other five counties for his active role and support. The United States and North Korea will keep relying on China’s good will to make the interactions go on, which would be the ace of China.

This thesis examines civil defense in the United States under the Nixon, Carter and Reagan administrations. Throughout the late Cold War period civil defense policy planners employed a philosophy of dual-use. The Defense Civil Preparedness Agency (DCPA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) instructed the American public to plan for a nuclear attack as well as natural disasters. Civil defense directors implemented crisis relocation plans for Americans that lived in designated high-risk areas. In an imminent nuclear attack, Americans in high-risk areas would temporarily relocate to host communities in low-risk areas of the county. This study is a blend of both civil defense policy and the reactions to nuclear war through the prism of popular culture in the late Cold War period.

碩士<br>國立中山大學<br>中山學術研究所<br>89<br>Abstract Military strategy is in serve of national interests, which is my basic idea through the whole paper. The theme of this paper is “Mainland China's Military Strategy toward Taiwan in the Post-Cold-War Period”. It can be divided into four folds: Firstly, the characteristics of post-cold war and its impact on the formation of military strategy of Mainland China. Secondly, the difference of military strategy thought between three China national leaders. Thirdly, possible military strategies and actions that China might take to against Taiwan. Lastly, the future challenge Taiwan might face and the way to get along with China's superior military power. This thesis has six chapters. In First chapter I introduce my research motive, method, structure, goal, and also define the content of military strategy. Then, in Second chapter I analysis the changing situation of the world and how it impacts Mainland China's national interests, and goals. Third chapter, I survey the thought of Mainland China's strategy. Fourth chapter is the discussion about the possible strategy and action that would be used by Mainland China's military against Taiwan. Fifth chapter discuss the future challenge and opportunity bring in by the relationship across Taiwan Strait. In Chapter Six I portray the future relationship development across Taiwan Strait and give some suggestion to Taiwan government. Based on the result of my research, I conclude that the main military strategy of China against Taiwan is a 'deterrent military strategy' enforced by a high technology war. Unfortunately, China seems on the track toward its goal. On the other hand, threaten by superior military power of China; Taiwan’s military strategy simply could be described by four words 'Firmly defending, Effective deterrence.' However, the context could be expressed by two concrete approaches: 1. Reinforce his military and logistics capabilities in preparing to face the coming severe campaign launched by the Mainland China. 2. Equip himself with anti-missile facilities as part of his negotiate power when reluctantly forced to deal with the opponent on the table.

碩士<br>淡江大學<br>東南亞研究所碩士班<br>96<br>This research adopts David Easton and K.J.Holsti’s “Political System” to analyze the Philippine foreign policy in the post cold war period. The Mischief Reef incident spurs President Ramos. His first diplomatic approach is to push for the modernization of the armed forces； The second is resort to develop “institutionalism” in the South China Sea； The third is to rely on the U.K. and U.S. in a balance of power, the development of mechanism of deterrence between China and the Philippines. During Estrada era, Philippines coordinate the coup in Cambodia, and propose an approach “constructive intervention” to Myanmar, and the House of Representatives call for the suspension of Myanmar from the ASEAN. President Estrada also proposes to modify the ASEAN Way of diplomacy from “non-interference” to “flexible engagement”, and he openly criticizes the issue that Mahathir arrest Anwar. The Philippines is sympathetic to some form of humanitarian intervention to East Timor issue. President Arroyo looks at the domestic, regional, and international levels that continue to shape the Philippine foreign policy of supporting the United State’s war against international terrorism. Not only it has reinvigorated Philippine-American relations, and enhances its visibility in the international society, but also gains American military assistance against Abu Sayyaf Group.

碩士<br>中原大學<br>宗教研究所<br>100<br>Abstract Although people may have the same Christian faith, they still have different interpretations of the Bible that existed in differing political stances. The principles of the Christian faith cannot be simply summarized under the phrase“Jesus loves you.” The intention of this article was not to criticize the rights or wrongs of political positions, but to explore history as it occurred. We had two objectives for conducting this study. First, to explore the 40-year period from the migration of the Chinese Nationalist government to Taiwan until the lifting of martial law, which served as the background epoch forthe development of the anti-communist apologist movement.Second, to analyze and simplifythe formation background, goal, and content of the two organizations involved in the anti-communist apologist movement, namely the International Council of Christian Churches and the World Christian Apologist Anti-Communist Alliance, and to understand the religious beliefs underlying the Christian anti-communist apologist movement. The content ofthis study begins from the anti-communist activities conducted in Taiwan after 1949, which offera glimpse into the background of thatera. Byunderstanding the atmosphere surrounding anti-communist movements, we increase our comprehension of the formation of anti-communist apologist principles, and which lines of thought influenced anti-communist apologist Christian faith. Regarding the research methods employed, theirprimary focus is to searchhistorical literature for information regardingtwo organizations: theInternational Council of Churches and the World Christian Apologist Anti-Communist Alliance. The research traced the source of anti-communist apologist religious thought through books and literature on the anti-communist apologist movement and its meeting records, goals, contents, and implementation methods. Duringthe cold war era in Taiwan, the influence of politics has been ever-present. Therefore, Christianity in Taiwan has become unavoidably embroiled in the anti-communist apologist movement, which altered the development of Christianity in Taiwan. The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan adopted the stance of Taiwanese independence, where liberation theology or leftist thoughts were entirely resisted by the church. In short, traces of what has occurred will always remain in history. Traces of the anti-communist ideology adopted during the cold-war era are still clearly visiblein the current theological principles upheld in Taiwan. Thus, this historical event may have been a special blessing from God to the Asiancommunity. Keywords: Coldwar era, anti-communist apologists, International Council of Churches, World Christian Apologist Anti-Communist Alliance