bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Police Overwork in China and the USA: An Exploratory Study of Death from Overwork (‘Karoshi’) in Policing
Authors: Luo Fei , Ruiz Jim
Published: May 2012

Although research has been conducted regarding policing in China and the USA, few researchers have compared and contrasted the similarities and differences between policing in the two countries. In our study, we examined how overextended working hours can impact a police department's officers and personnel as well as affect the physical and psychological health that impairs the safety of police and the public in China and the USA. Given that Karoshi (death from overwork) among a variety of occupational groups is commonly recognised in Japan, China and other countries, the authors contend that the problem also exists in policing – one of the most public working groups; thus, this issue should be of great public concern that warrants further examination and discussion.
Single-Neuron Responses in the Human Nucleus Accumbens during a Financial Decision-Making Task
Authors: Patel Shaun R. , Sheth Sameer A. , Mian Matthew K. , Gale John T. , Greenberg Benjamin D. , Dougherty Darin D. , Eskandar Emad N.
Published: May 2012

Linking values to actions and evaluating expectations relative to outcomes are both central to reinforcement learning and are thought to underlie financial decision-making. However, neurophysiology studies of these processes in humans remain limited. Here, we recorded the activity of single human nucleus accumbens neurons while subjects performed a gambling task. We show that the nucleus accumbens encodes two signals related to subject behavior. First, we find that under relatively predictable conditions, single neuronal activity predicts future financial decisions on a trial-by-trial basis. Interestingly, we show that this activity continues to predict decisions even under conditions of uncertainty (e.g., when the probability of winning or losing is 50/50 and no particular financial choice predicts a rewarding outcome). Furthermore, we find that this activity occurs, on average, 2 s before the subjects physically manifest their decision. Second, we find that the nucleus accumbens encodes the difference between expected and realized outcomes, consistent with a prediction error signal. We show this activity occurs immediately after the subject has realized the outcome of the trial and is present on both the individual and population neuron levels. These results provide human single neuronal evidence that the nucleus accumbens is integral in making financial decisions.
Modulatory Effects of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors on Local Cortical Circuits
Authors: De Pasquale Roberto , Sherman S. Murray
Published: May 2012

Glutamatergic pathways in various thalamic and cortical circuits have been classified into two types: Class 1 and Class 2, where it has been suggested that Class 1 carries the main information for processing, and Class 2 is mainly modulatory. We now extend this to the local circuitry of visual cortex of the mouse by demonstrating the modulatory actions on the Class 1 pathway from layer 4 to layers 2/3 of a Class 2 input from adjacent locations in layers 2/3. We found that this Class 2 input produces a long-lasting hyperpolarization and suppresses the initial responses of input from layer 4 and that this involves the postsynaptic activation of Group II metabotropic glutamate receptors. This modulation also shifts the paired pulse ratio of the layer 4 input from depression to facilitation.
Hyperdynamic Microtubules, Cognitive Deficits, and Pathology Are Improved in Tau Transgenic Mice with Low Doses of the Microtubule-Stabilizing Agent BMS-241027
Authors: Barten Donna M. , Fanara Patrizia , Andorfer Cathy , Hoque Nina , Wong P. Y. Anne , Husted Kristofor H. , Cadelina Gregory W. , DeCarr Lynn B. , Yang Ling , Liu Victoria , Fessler Chancy , Protassio Joan , Riff Timothy , Turner Holly , Janus Christopher G. , Sankaranarayanan Sethu , Polson Craig , Meredith Jere E. , Gray Gemma , Hanna Amanda , Olson Richard E. , Kim Soong-Hoon , Vite Gregory D. , Lee Francis Y. , Albright Charles F.
Published: May 2012

Tau is a microtubule (MT)-stabilizing protein that is altered in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other tauopathies. It is hypothesized that the hyperphosphorylated, conformationally altered, and multimeric forms of tau lead to a disruption of MT stability; however, direct evidence is lackingin vivo. In this study, anin vivostable isotope-mass spectrometric technique was used to measure the turnover, or dynamicity, of MTs in brains of living animals. We demonstrated an age-dependent increase in MT dynamics in two different tau transgenic mouse models, 3xTg and rTg4510. MT hyperdynamicity was dependent on tau expression, since a reduction of transgene expression with doxycycline reversed the MT changes. Treatment of rTg4510 mice with the epothilone, BMS-241027, also restored MT dynamics to baseline levels. In addition, MT stabilization with BMS-241027 had beneficial effects on Morris water maze deficits, tau pathology, and neurodegeneration. Interestingly, pathological and functional benefits of BMS-241027 were observed at doses that only partially reversed MT hyperdynamicity. Together, these data suggest that tau-mediated loss of MT stability may contribute to disease progression and that very low doses of BMS-241027 may be useful in the treatment of AD and other tauopathies.
Synaptic Distributions of GluA2 and PKMζ in the Monkey Dentate Gyrus and Their Relationships with Aging and Memory
Authors: Hara Yuko , Punsoni Michael , Yuk Frank , Park C. Sehwan , Janssen William G. M. , Rapp Peter R. , Morrison John H.
Published: May 2012

Rhesus monkeys provide a valuable model for studying the neurobiological basis of cognitive aging, because they are vulnerable to age-related memory decline in a manner similar to humans. In this study, young and aged monkeys were first tested on a well characterized recognition memory test (delayed nonmatching-to-sample; DNMS). Then, electron microscopic immunocytochemistry was performed to determine the subcellular localization of two proteins in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG): the GluA2 subunit of the glutamate AMPA receptor and the atypical protein kinase C ζ isoform (PKMζ). PKMζ promotes memory storage by regulating GluA2-containing AMPA receptor trafficking. Thus, we examined whether the distribution of GluA2 and PKMζ is altered with aging in DG axospinous synapses and whether it is coupled with memory deficits. Monkeys with faster DNMS task acquisition and more accurate recognition memory exhibited higher proportions of dendritic spines coexpressing GluA2 and PKMζ. These double-labeled spines had larger synapses, as measured by postsynaptic density area, than single-labeled and unlabeled spines. Within this population of double-labeled spines, aged monkeys compared with young expressed a lower density of synaptic GluA2 immunogold labeling, which correlated with lower recognition accuracy. Additionally, higher density of synaptic PKMζ labeling in double-labeled spines correlated with both faster task acquisition and better retention. Together, these findings suggest that age-related impairment in maintenance of GluA2 at the synapse in the primate hippocampus is coupled with memory deficits.
LTP Induction Translocates Cortactin at Distant Synapses in Wild-Type But NotFmr1Knock-Out Mice
Authors: Seese Ronald R. , Babayan Alex H. , Katz Adam M. , Cox Conor D. , Lauterborn Julie C. , Lynch Gary , Gall Christine M.
Published: May 2012

Stabilization of long-term potentiation (LTP) depends on reorganization of the dendritic spine actin cytoskeleton. The present study tested whether this involves activity-driven effects on the actin-regulatory protein cortactin, and whether such effects are disturbed in theFmr1knock-out (KO) model of fragile X syndrome, in which stabilization of both actin filaments and LTP is impaired. LTP induced by theta burst stimulation (TBS) in hippocampal slices from wild-type mice was associated with rapid, broadly distributed, and NMDA receptor-dependent decreases in synapse-associated cortactin. The reduction in cortactin content was blocked by blebbistatin, while basal levels were reduced by nocodazole, indicating that cortactin's movements into and away from synapses are regulated by microtubule and actomyosin motors, respectively. These results further suggest that synapse-specific LTP influences cytoskeletal elements at distant connections. The rapid effects of TBS on synaptic cortactin content were absent inFmr1KOs as was evidence for activity-driven phosphorylation of the protein or its upstream kinase, ERK1/2. Phosphorylation regulates cortactin's interactions with actin, and coprecipitation of the two proteins was reduced in the KOs. We propose that, in the KOs, excessive basal phosphorylation of ERK1/2 disrupts its interactions with cortactin, thereby blocking the latter protein's use of actomyosin transport systems. These impairments are predicted to compromise the response of the subsynaptic cytoskeleton to learning-related afferent activity, both locally and at distant sites.
Bimodal Control of Fear-Coping Strategies by CB1Cannabinoid Receptors
Authors: Metna-Laurent Mathilde , Soria-Gómez Edgar , Verrier Danièle , Conforzi Martina , Jégo Pierrick , Lafenêtre Pauline , Marsicano Giovanni
Published: May 2012

To maximize their chances of survival, animals need to rapidly and efficiently respond to aversive situations. These responses can be classified as active or passive and depend on the specific nature of threats, but also on individual fear coping styles. In this study, we show that the control of excitatory and inhibitory brain neurons by type-1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptors is a key determinant of fear coping strategies in mice. In classical fear conditioning, a switch between initially predominant passive fear responses (freezing) and active behaviors (escape attempts and risk assessment) develops over time. Constitutive genetic deletion of CB1receptors inCB1−/−mice disrupted this pattern by favoring passive responses. This phenotype can be ascribed to endocannabinoid control of excitatory neurons, because it was reproduced in conditional mutant mice lacking CB1receptors from cortical glutamatergic neurons. CB1receptor deletion from GABAergic brain neurons led to the opposite phenotype, characterized by the predominance of active coping. The CB1receptor agonist Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol exerted a biphasic control of fear coping strategies, with lower and higher doses favoring active and passive responses, respectively. Finally, viral re-expression of CB1receptors in the amygdala ofCB1−/−mice restored the normal switch between the two coping strategies. These data strongly suggest that CB1receptor signaling bimodally controls the spontaneous adoption of active or passive coping strategies in individuals. This primary function of the endocannabinoid system in shaping individual behavioral traits should be considered when studying the mechanisms of physiological and pathological fear.
Your Goal Is Mine: Unraveling Mimetic Desires in the Human Brain
Authors: Lebreton Maël , Kawa Shadia , Forgeot d'Arc Baudouin , Daunizeau Jean , Pessiglione Mathias
Published: May 2012

The spread of desires among individuals is widely believed to shape motivational drives in human populations. However, objective evidence for this phenomenon and insights into the underlying brain mechanisms are still lacking. Here we show that participants rated objects as more desirable once perceived as the goals of another agent's action. We then unravel the mechanisms underpinning such goal contagion, using functional neuroimaging. As expected, observing goal-directed actions activated a parietofrontal network known as the mirror neuron system (MNS), whereas subjective desirability ratings were represented in a ventral striatoprefrontal network known as the brain valuation system (BVS). Crucially, the induction of mimetic desires through action observation involved the modulation of BVS activity through MNS activity. Furthermore, MNS–BVS effective connectivity predicted individual susceptibility toward mimetic desires. We therefore suggest that MNS–BVS interaction represents a fundamental mechanism explaining how nonverbal behavior propagates desires without the need for explicit, intentional communication.
Sonnenfinsternisse und ihre chronologische Bedeutung: Ein neuer Sonnenfinsterniskanon für Altertumswissenschaftler
Authors: Gautschy Rita
Published: May 2012

In antiken Quellen sind zahlreiche astronomische Beobachtungen überliefert, die dazu benützt werden können, absolute Daten zu gewinnen. Besonders wichtig sind in diesem Zusammenhang Sonnenfinsternisse. Hier wird ein neuer elektronisch verfügbarer Sonnenfinsterniskanon präsentiert, der speziell an die Bedürfnisse von Altertumswissenschaftlern angepasst wurde: er enthält Karten aller Sonnenfinsternisse zwischen 2500 v. Chr. und 1000 n. Chr., die im ausgewählten geographischen Bereich zwischen (20° N, 5° O), (20° N, 50° O), (50° N, 5° O) und (50° N, 50° O) potentiell auffällig waren und somit für Identifikationen von Finsternisberichten aus diesem geographischen Bereich in Frage kommen, auch wenn sie nicht vorhergesagt wurden. Der Sonnenfinsterniskanon ist online verfügbar unter http://www.gautschy.ch/~rita/archast/solec/finsternis.html. Als Anwendungsbeispiele werden einerseits die Ugarit-Finsternis und andererseits die Ennius-Finsternis diskutiert.
Personifikationen von provinciae auf den Münzprägungen unter Hadrian: Auf den ikonographischen Spuren von ,Statthalterprovinzen‘ und ,Teilprovinzen‘
Authors: Vitale Marco
Published: May 2012

Die Gebietsnamen der Personifikationen auf den sog. Reiseerinnerungsmünzen des Kaisers Hadrian lassen sich alle als Bezeichnungen von administrativen Gebietseinheiten nachweisen. Sie vermitteln etwa im Unterschied zu den in einem offensichtlich militärisch-triumphalen Repräsentationskontext ausdrücklich als ἔϑνη veranschlagten Reliefdarstellungen im Sebasteion von Aphrodisias oder den literarisch mit Ethnika bezeichneten Darstellungen von gentes bzw. nationes der stadtrömischen porticus ad nationes nicht eine ethnographische Ansicht des römischen Reiches, sondern, entlang der reichsweiten Inspektionsreisen des Kaisers, eine an der administrativen Territorialordnung orientierte. Einerseits sind provinciae im Sinne umfassender Statthalterprovinzen, wie etwa Asia oder Dacia, angesprochen, wobei gleichnamige Statthalterprovinzen, wie etwa im Falle der drei provinciae namens Dacia oder der drei provinciae namens Hispania, sich nach einem formelhaften Abkürzungsprinzip jeweils umfassend durch das bloße gemeinsame Namenselement „Dacia“ bzw. „Hispania“ präsentieren. Andererseits erscheinen im engeren Sinne auch provinciae bzw. im Griechischen ἐπαρχίαι, also Teilprovinzen bzw. prokuratorische Verwaltungsgebiete unterhalb der Statthalterebene, wie im Falle der Münzlegenden Phrygia oder Libya. Diese Konzeption der Reichsgeographie ist wenigstens in der römischen Münzprägung kein Novum. Eine verwaltungsgeographische Perspektive unterworfener Regionen wird spätestens unter Trajan wenigstens in den Münzprägungen mit der personifizierten DACIA PROVINCIA ausdrücklich fassbar. Der Gebietsname Dacia bzw. seine Personifikation stand nunmehr selbstredend für die so genannte territorial definierte Verwaltungseinheit, stellte also weder die gleichnamige Landschaft noch ein ethnos dar.
Malignant and benign thyroid nodules after total body irradiation preceding hematopoietic cell transplantation during childhood
Authors: Vivanco Maritza , Dalle Jean-Hugues , Alberti Corinne , Lescoeur Brigitte , Yakouben Karima , Carel Jean-Claude , Baruchel André , Léger Juliane
Published: May 2012

Background

The risk of radiation-induced benign and malignant thyroid nodules is well known.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of thyroid nodules and carcinomas after fractionated total body irradiation (TBI) preceding hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for malignant hematological disease during childhood.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective university hospital-based observational study. The participants were 76 patients receiving fractionated TBI between 1989 and 2009 as part of the conditioning regimen for HSCT to treat malignant hematological disease, with a median age of 8.2 (5.7–11.4) years, for whom the last ultrasound examination was performed at a median age of 14.2 (11.2–17) years. The main outcome measure was cumulative incidence of thyroid nodules detected by ultrasound scans followed by biopsy if necessary.

Results

Thyroid nodules were examined in 21 (28%) patients, six (29%) of whom were diagnosed with thyroid carcinoma at the age of 2.2–18.6 years after TBI. The cumulative incidence of nodule occurrence increased with increasing time from diagnosis. The 10-year cumulative incidence of benign and malignant thyroid nodules was 16% (95% confidence interval (CI) 4–27%) and 8% (95% CI 0–16%) respectively. Seventeen (22%) patients had hypothyroidism (compensated n=12, in five patients it was transient). No significant independent risk factors were identified in the multivariable competing risk model as a function of nodule occurrence.

Conclusion

Short-term and life-long monitoring, with screening for nodules of the thyroid gland using ultrasound scans, is recommended for survivors subjected to TBI for HSCT during childhood.
A novel severe N-terminal splice site KISS1R gene mutation causes hypogonadotropic hypogonadism but enables a normal development of neonatal external genitalia
Authors: Breuer Oded , Abdulhadi-Atwan Maha , Zeligson Sharon , Fridman Hila , Renbaum Paul , Levy-Lahad Ephrat , Zangen David H
Published: May 2012

Background

Kisspeptin 1 receptor (KISS1R) gene mutations are rare but have recently become an important etiology of normosmic isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH).

Objectives

To characterize the genetic defect, the phenotype, and response to therapy of three IHH siblings with a novel severe KISS1R mutation.

Patients and methods

Three siblings (16- and 22-year-old sisters and their 20-year-old brother) born to consanguineous parents with normal neonatal external genitalia presented with no pubertal development, normosmia, and a low response to GNRH stimulation. Homozygosity mapping, KISS1R gene sequencing, and RNA expression were performed.

Results

The females' basal low estradiol level (50 pmol/l) failed to rise in response to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The brother's low testosterone (1.87 nmol/l) responded to combined hCG and human menopausal gonadotropin (hCG) and HMG therapies, but the testes remained small (1–2 ml). Secondary sexual characteristics were attained by exogenous sex steroid replacement. SNP array studies revealed shared homozygosity for a chromosome 19 region encompassing KISS1R. Sequencing revealed a novel homozygous KISS1R mutation at the nt-1 canonical acceptor splice site of intron 1 in affected siblings. The mother (menarche at 14 years) was heterozygous. cDNA sequencing showed that the G>A mutation results in skipping of exon 2 and a premature stop codon at residue 151.

Conclusions

The novel severe N-terminal KISS1R splice site (c.245−1G>A) mutation results in IHH. Heterozygous female carriers may manifest a subtle fertile phenotype. The subnormal gonadal response to hCG in patients may implicate a direct role of KISS1R in gonadal function. The normal neonatal virilization in a male homozygous to this severe mutation challenges the hypothesis that KISS1R is required for fetal development of male external genitalia.
Low-dose dexamethasone administration for 3 weeks favorably affects plasma HDL concentration and composition but does not affect very low-density lipoprotein kinetics
Authors: Wang Xuewen , Magkos Faidon , Patterson Bruce W , Reeds Dominic N , Kampelman Janine , Mittendorfer Bettina
Published: May 2012

Objective

Subclinical hypercortisolemia often occurs in subjects with features of the metabolic syndrome, and it has been suggested that it may be, at least in part, responsible for the development of these metabolic abnormalities. However, the metabolic effects of glucocorticoid administration to mimic subclinical glucocorticoid excess have not been evaluated.

Methods

We used stable isotope-labeled tracer methods in conjunction with magnetic resonance techniques to measure the effect of glucocorticoid excess within the physiological range (∼0.7 mg dexamethasone/day for 3 weeks) on glucose and free fatty acid (FFA) rates of appearance (Ra) into plasma, intrahepatic triglyceride (TG) content, very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-TG and VLDL-apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB-100) kinetics and plasma lipoprotein subclass concentrations, and particle sizes in nine overweight and obese individuals.

Results

Dexamethasone treatment led to a very small but significant increase in body weight (from 87.4±7.1 to 88.6±7.2 kg; P=0.003) and increased HDL-cholesterol (from 45.9±2.8 to 55.1±4.6 mg/dl; P=0.037) and HDL particle (from 33.7±2.2 to 41.4±4.2 nmol/l; P=0.023) concentrations in plasma but had no effect on intrahepatic TG content, glucose and FFA Ra in plasma, hepatic VLDL-TG and VLDL-apoB-100 secretion rates and mean residence times in the circulation, plasma TG and LDL-cholesterol concentrations, and plasma lipoprotein particle sizes.

Conclusion

Subclinical hypercortisolemia does not have significant adverse metabolic consequences.
Towards Novel Light-Activated Shape Memory Polymer: Thermomechanical Properties of Photo-responsive Polymers
Authors: Snyder Emily A. , Tong Tat H.
Published: May 2012

The basic principle for the operation of a thermally stimulated shape memory polymer (SMP) is a drastic change in elastic modulus above the glass transition temperature (Tg). This change from glassy modulus to rubbery modulus allows the material to be deformed above the Tg and retain the deformed shape when cooled below the Tg. The material will recover its original shape when heated above the Tg again. However, thermal activation is not the only possibility for a polymer to exhibit this shape memory effect or change of modulus. This paper discusses results of an alternative approach to SMP activation.

It is well known that the Tg of a thermosetting polymer is proportional to its crosslinking density. It is possible for the crosslinking density of a room temperature elastomer to be modified through photo-crosslinking special photo-reactive monomer groups incorporated into the material system in order to increase its Tg. Correspondingly, the modulus will be increased from the rubbery state to the glassy state. As a result, the material is transformed from an elastomer to a rigid glassy photoset, depending on the crosslinking density achieved during exposure to the proper wavelength of light. This crosslinking process is reversible by irradiation with a different wavelength, thus making it possible to produce light-activated SMP materials that could be deformed at room temperature, held in deformed shape by photo-irradiation using one wavelength, and recovered to the original shape by irradiation with a different wavelength.

In this work, monomers which contain photo-crosslinkable groups in addition to the primary polymerizable groups were synthesized. These monomers were formulated and cured with other monomers to form photo-responsive polymers. The mechanical properties of these materials, the kinetics, and the reversibility of the photo-activated shape memory effect were studied to demonstrate the effectiveness of using photo-irradiation to effect change in modulus (and thus shape memory effect).
Validação do questionário de avaliação funcional das mãos em hanseníase
Authors: Ferreira Telma Leonel , Alvarez Rosicler Rocha Aiza , Virmond Marcos da Cunha Lopes
Published: May 2012

OBJETIVO: Validar as propriedades psicométricas do questionário de avaliação funcional das mãos em hanseníase. MÉTODOS: Estudo realizado com amostra de conveniência de 101 pacientes consecutivos em Brasília, DF, de junho de 2008 a julho de 2009. As pessoas eram adultas afetadas pela hanseníase, com comprometimento nos nervos ulnar, mediano e radial. Foi analisada a reprodutibilidade interobservadores e intraobservador com entrevistas sucessivas e a validade do constructo com associação entre idade, forma clínica da hanseníase, tempo de lesão do nervo, forças de preensão e pinças realizadas com dinamômetro, teste de sensibilidade realizado com monofilamentos de Semmes-Weinstein e avaliação da habilidade manual, utilizando o teste de função manual de Jebsen. Calcularam-se os valores do índice kappa ponderado e construiu-se um gráfico Bland-Altman para avaliar a reprodutibilidade do instrumento. Para a consistência interna, utilizou-se o coeficiente alfa de Cronbach. Foi calculado o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson e usado modelo de regressão múltipla. RESULTADOS: Os valores de kappa ponderado para as avaliações interobservadores e intraobservador variaram de 0,86 a 0,97 e de 0,85 a 0,97, respectivamente. O valor do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach foi de 0,967. O coeficiente de correlação de Pearson mostrou associação (p < 0,001) entre tempo de lesão do nervo, forças de preensão e pinças, sensibilidade cutânea e escore médio do teste de Jebsen. O escore médio do questionário de avaliação funcional das mãos em hanseníase associou-se com classificação operacional da hanseníase, tempo de lesão do nervo, força de preensão, sensibilidade cutânea e habilidade manual (p < 0,0001 para o conjunto do modelo). CONCLUSÕES: O questionário de avaliação funcional das mãos em hanseníase apresenta reprodutibilidade quase perfeita interobservadores e intraobservador, alta consistência interna e correlação com classificação operacional da hanseníase, tempo de lesão do nervo, força de preensão, sensibilidade cutânea nas mãos e habilidade manual.
Intestinal parasitism and socio-environmental factors among Mbyá-Guarani indians, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Brandelli Clara Lia Costa , Carli Geraldo Attilio de , Macedo Alexandre José , Tasca Tiana
Published: May 2012

Disturbing data reveal the prevalence of intestinal parasites and their relationship with socio-environmental factors among Mbyá-Guarani Indians. The prevalence was determined by spontaneous sedimentation in water, centrifugation-floatation, and Kato-Katz. A socioeconomic questionnaire was submitted to each family. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 88.7%, and 45.5% were polyparasitized. There was 90.5% prevalence of enteric parasites in children (1-12- year-old), and 85% among 13-65-year-old individuals, indicating that both age groups are extensively parasitized. The parasite load was low to moderate for geohelminths and 75% of the families did not have latrine, thus the practice of defecation occurred outdoors. These findings suggest that the multiple intestinal parasitism in the Mbyá-Guarani community is high to the point of being the rule, and that it relates essentially to the traditional lifestyle and health habits. It is urgently necessary to implement the association of anti-parasitic treatment with sanitation improvement. This should be done simultaneously with health education activities for this population.
HTLV-1/2 seroprevalence and coinfection rate in Brazilian first-time blood donors: an 11-year follow-up
Authors: Pinto Mariana Tomazini , Rodrigues Evandra Strazza , Malta Tathiane Maistro , Azevedo Rochele , Takayanagui Osvaldo Massaiti , Valente Vanderléia Bárbaro , Ubiali Eugênia Maria Amorim , Covas Dimas Tadeu , Kashima Simone
Published: May 2012

The seroprevalence and geographic distribution of HTLV-1/2 among blood donors are extremely important to transfusion services. We evaluated the seroprevalence of HTLV-1/2 infection among first-time blood donor candidates in Ribeirão Preto city and region. From January 2000 to December 2010, 1,038,489 blood donations were obtained and 301,470 were first-time blood donations. All samples were screened with serological tests for HTLV-1/2 using enzyme immunoassay (EIA). In addition, the frequency of coinfection with hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Chagas disease (CD) and syphilis was also determined. In-house PCR was used as confirmatory test for HTLV-1/2. A total of 296 (0.1%) first-time donors were serologically reactive for HTLV-1/2. Confirmatory PCR of 63 samples showed that 28 were HTLV-1 positive, 13 HTLV-2 positive, 19 negative and three indeterminate. Regarding HTLV coinfection rates, the most prevalent was with HBV (51.3%) and HCV (35.9%), but coinfection with HIV, CD and syphilis was also detected. The real number of HTLV-infected individual and coinfection rate in the population is underestimated and epidemiological studies like ours are very informative.
Amplification of the flgE gene provides evidence for the existence of a Brazilian borreliosis
Authors: Mantovani Elenice , Marangoni Roberta G. , Gauditano Giancarla , Bonoldi Virgínia L.N. , Yoshinari Natalino H.
Published: May 2012

INTRODUCTION: The symptoms of Brazilian borreliosis resemble the clinical manifestations of Lyme disease (LD). However, there are differences between the two in terms of epidemiological and laboratory findings. Primers usually employed to diagnose LD have failed to detect Borrelia strains in Brazil. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to identify the Brazilian Borrelia using a conserved gene that synthesizes the flagellar hook (flgE) of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. METHOD: Three patients presenting with erythema migrans and positive epidemiological histories were recruited for the study. Blood samples were collected, and the DNA was extracted by commercial kits. RESULTS: The gene flgE was amplified from DNA of all selected patients. Upon sequencing, these positive samples revealed 99% homology to B. burgdorferi flgE. CONCLUSION: These results support the existence of borreliosis in Brazil. However, it is unclear whether this borreliosis is caused by a genetically modified B. burgdorferi sensu stricto or by a new species of Borrelia spp.
Ectopic dirofilariosis in two dogs from Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil
Authors: Brener Beatriz , Millar Patricia Riddell , Mattos Danuza Pinheiro Bastos Garcia de , Uchôa Flávia , Bastos Bethânia , Lyrio Ingrid Rodrigues , Aragon Pedro Luis , Sudré Adriana Pittella
Published: May 2012

Report of two canine dirofilariosis cases of ectopic location in the state of Rio de Janeiro. This is the first report of erratic migration for this parasitosis in dogs in the state, calling attention to the short period of time between the two cases. The fact that the area is endemic for this parasite, its zoonotic potential and the report of human cases in the state, demonstrates that authorities should be alerted to the control programs of dirofilariosis along with the pathogenic profile of the infections.
Nutrição de mudas de angico-vermelho (Anadenanthera macrocarpa (Benth.) Brenan) submetidas a doses de N, P, K, Ca E Mg
Authors: Gonçalves Elzimar de Oliveira , Paiva Haroldo Nogueira de , Neves Julio Cesar Lima , Gomes José Mauro
Published: May 2012

Neste trabalho, objetivou-se verificar o teor e conteúdo de N, P, K, Ca e Mg, bem como determinar o nível crítico desses nutrientes no solo e na planta. As mudas foram cultivadas, no período de dezembro de 2004 a maio de 2005, em vasos com capacidade para 2,1 dm-3 contendo amostras de solo de três classes (Argissolo Vermelho-Amarelo AVA, Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo Álico LVA e Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo Distrófico - LVD). Os tratamentos foram delimitados segundo uma matriz baconiana, onde se variaram os macronutrientes, em três doses, e dois tratamentos adicionais (zero e referência), com quatro repetições. Verificou-se que, em geral, as mudas da espécie absorveram maior quantidade de N, P, K, Ca e Mg, à medida que a disponibilidade destes aumentava no solo. Tal fato refletiu em maior concentração dos nutrientes aplicados em todas as partes da planta. Entretanto, em alguns casos não houve resposta em crescimento correspondente a esse aumento. Os nutrientes que mais proporcionaram efeitos foram o P, o N e o S; poucas respostas foram observadas nos demais nutrientes (Ca, Mg e K). A espécie tem baixo requerimento nutricional, sendo o nível crítico dos nutrientes, no solo e na planta, menores do que os observados em outras espécies florestais. Para o K e o Ca, sugerem-se estudos com doses dentro das faixas de valores encontrados, para melhor definição dos níveis críticos.
Physiological quality of Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Steud. (Leguminosae - Papilionoideae) seeds subjected to different storage conditions
Authors: Reis Renata Conduru Ribeiro , Pelacani Claudinéia Regina , Antunes Cimille Gabrielle Cardoso , Dantas Bárbara França , Castro Renato Delmondez de
Published: May 2012

Studies of seed physiological processes represent the starting point for the sustainable utilization of native or cultivated plant species from the caatinga biome for which germination studies are still scarce. In order to determine adequate methods for the conservation of Gliricidia sepium seeds, the physiological quality of propagules exposed to different conditions and times of storage were examined. Recently collected seeds of G. sepium were analyzed immediately, while the other sample was stored for three, six, nine, or twelve months in plastic or paper bags under refrigeration or at room temperature for further analysis. The germination rates of seeds from each storage regime were determined and these rates compared to their water content. It was observed that germination capacity was directly related to changes in seed humidity. Storing seeds in plastic bags yielded the best conservation, mainly when they were stored at low temperatures. However, even at temperatures near 25°C it was possible to prolong seed viability when their water content was controlled through the use of impermeable packing.
Estabelecimento de espécies florestais nativas por meio de semeadura direta para recuperação de áreas degradadas
Authors: Santos Paula Luíza , Ferreira Robério Anastácio , Aragão Alexsandro Guimarães de , Amaral Luise Andrade , Oliveira Andreza Santos
Published: May 2012

Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar a utilização da semeadura direta e a influência de um protetor físico sobre o estabelecimento de espécies florestais nativas em uma área com pastagem e outra com agricultura. O experimento foi executado no Município de São Cristóvão, SE (10º55'20"S e 37º12'00"W), em delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial, com três repetições. Foram utilizadas sementes de Erythrina velutina Wild., Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth., Guazuma ulmifolia Lam., Machaerium aculeatum Raddi, Lonchocarpus sericeus (Poir) DC. e Sapindus saponaria L. As avaliações feitas em campo foram: emergência, sobrevivência e desenvolvimento inicial das mudas das espécies (altura e diâmetro). Com relação à emergência e sobrevivência de plântulas, houve diferença significativa entre os dois ambientes, com melhores resultados no subsistema agricultura. Considerando o desenvolvimento das espécies, E. velutina destacou-se das demais por ter apresentado as maiores médias de altura e diâmetro nas duas áreas, em ambos os tratamentos. A semeadura direta foi viável na recuperação de áreas degradadas com espécies florestais nativas, nos ambientes estudados.
Riqueza de galhas entomógenas em áreas antropizadas e preservadas de caatinga
Authors: Carvalho-Fernandes Sheila Patricia , Almeida-Cortez Jarcilene Silva de , Ferreira Andre Luiz Nunes
Published: May 2012

Insetos indutores de galhas, também denominados cecidógenos, são considerados mais especializados por possuírem interação direta com tecidos internos da planta, modificando-os em seu benefício e tornando-se mais dependentes da espécie hospedeira. Este estudo investigou a fauna de insetos galhadores em espécies hospedeiras da Caatinga, em ambientes com diferentes intensidades de ação antrópica. As áreas foram selecionadas de acordo com uma escala de sucessão ecológica (preservadas, intermediárias e antropizadas), sendo três réplicas de cada, totalizando nove áreas. Em cada área foram amostradas oito parcelas de 10 m² cada, distanciadas 10 m entre si. Foram encontrados 25 morfotipos de galhas distribuídos em 18 espécies hospedeiras pertencentes a oito famílias vegetais. Fabaceae foi a família com maior riqueza de galhas, com seis morfotipos, sendo Caesalpinia pyramidalis Tul. a espécie com maior número de galhas, com quatro morfotipos. Em relação aos órgãos atacados, 68% das galhas ocorreram em folhas, 28% em ramos e 4% em botões florais. A maioria das galhas encontradas ocorreu isoladamente (84%), glabra (56%) e de formas esféricas (32%), amorfas (28%), discoides (12%) e globoides (12%). No estrato arbóreo foi encontrada a maior riqueza de galhas, com 16 morfotipos, seguido do estrato arbustivo e herbáceo, respectivamente com sete e dois morfotipos. A riqueza de galhas sofreu influência do grau de conservação das áreas, e houve diferenças entre os ambientes preservados e antropizados.
Chuva de sementes em uma floresta de galeria no Parque do Bacaba, em Nova Xavantina, Mato Grosso, Brasil
Authors: Lagos Maria do Carmo Correa , Marimon Beatriz Schwantes
Published: May 2012

O estudo foi realizado na floresta de galeria do Córrego Bacaba, no Parque Municipal do Bacaba (14º43'12,2S e 52º21'36,7"W), em Nova Xavantina, MT. A dispersão de sementes foi analisada e comparada entre três porções da floresta (alto, meio e baixo), distantes cerca de 200 m entre si, em um gradiente topográfico. Foram distribuídos, aleatoriamente, 20 coletores circulares de 0,3 m² em cada porção de floresta, sendo as coletas de sementes realizadas quinzenalmente, entre junho de 2007 e maio de 2008. O material foi submetido à secagem em estufa até peso constante e as sementes, separadas em duas categorias, baseando-se na presença de estruturas de voo (V) e na ausência dessas estruturas (NV). O número de morfoespécies e de sementes e a biomassa foram comparados entre as porções de floresta e entre os períodos seco e chuvoso. Coletaram-se 20.965 sementes em 24 quinzenas, sendo 777 do tipo V e 20.188 do tipo NV. Na porção do alto ocorreram 52 morfoespécies de sementes, no meio 55 e no baixo 49. A diversidade de morfoespécies de sementes foi inferior à diversidade de espécies de plantas lenhosas na mesma área. Considerando o padrão sazonal de dispersão de sementes, tanto para as V (número, morfoespécies e biomassa) quanto para as NV (biomassa), recomenda-se um controle no fluxo de visitantes no Parque do Bacaba, especialmente nos meses de pico de dispersão de sementes, no final do período seco e início do chuvoso (setembro-dezembro). Medidas de excursionismo de mínimo impacto poderão trazer benefícios para o estabelecimento de sementes e plântulas e garantir a sustentabilidade da floresta.
Corte foliar e tempo de transplantio para o uso de plântulas do sub-bosque na restauração florestal
Authors: Viani Ricardo Augusto Gorne , Brancalion Pedro Henrique Santin , Rodrigues Ricardo Ribeiro
Published: May 2012

O uso de plântulas da regeneração natural tem sido recomendado como estratégia para produção de mudas visando à restauração florestal, contudo muitos aspectos técnicos desse método ainda carecem de investigação científica. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da redução da área foliar e do transplantio imediato na sobrevivência e crescimento de mudas de espécies arbóreas produzidas a partir de plântulas obtidas da regeneração natural. Plântulas de Esenbeckia leiocarpa (Rutaceae), Eugenia ligustrina (Myrtaceae) e Maytenus salicifolia (Celastraceae), obtidas em remanescente de vegetação secundária de Floresta Estacional Semidecidual em Bofete, SP, foram extraídas do solo e submetidas aos tratamentos: I) redução de 50% da área de cada folha e transplantio imediato; II) nenhuma redução de área das folhas e transplantio imediato; III) redução de 50% da área de cada folha, manutenção das plântulas em água e transplantio 24 h após a coleta; e IV) nenhuma redução de área das folhas, manutenção das plântulas em água e transplantio 24 h após a coleta. As mudas foram avaliadas com relação à sobrevivência e ao crescimento em altura, ao longo de oito meses. Os resultados evidenciaram que nem o corte das folhas ou a manutenção das plântulas dentro de recipientes com água por 24 h antes do transplantio afetaram os parâmetros avaliados. Assim, para as espécies estudadas a redução da área foliar e o transplantio imediato são desnecessários para a produção de mudas em viveiro a partir de plântulas obtidas da regeneração natural.
Avaliação experimental de vigas com emendas de topo coladas com cobrejuntas de madeira de eucalipto
Authors: Lobão Moisés Silveira , Lucia Ricardo Marius Della , Moreira Márcio Sampaio Sarmet , Vital Benedito Rocha , Alvarenga Rita de Cássia Santana , Gouvêa Adriana de Fátima Gomes
Published: May 2012

Este trabalho teve como objetivos construir, testar e avaliar o comportamento de vigas de madeira de eucalipto com emendas de topo ligadas por cobrejuntas inteiramente colados com adesivo resorcinólico e compará-las com o comportamento de vigas maciças feitas do mesmo material. Para isso, obteve-se um lote de madeira de Eucalyptus grandis seca em estufa. Realizou-se a caracterização completa da madeira de acordo com a norma NBR7190/97. Protótipos menores das vigas foram construídos a partir de tábuas retiradas ao acaso com as dimensões de 10 cm de largura, 3 cm de espessura e 170 cm de comprimento nas testemunhas e 85 cm nas duas partes da alma das vigas a serem coladas com cobrejuntas compostas por tábuas de 35 e 43 cm de comprimento e 1,5 cm de espessura. Essas vigas com 160 cm de vão foram ensaiadas até a ruptura. Concluiu-se que a melhor configuração foi o cobrejunta que ocupava 25% da superfície lateral das tábuas. As vigas de tamanho real foram construídas com tábuas de 20 cm de largura, 6 cm de espessura e 420 cm de comprimento nas testemunhas e duas tábuas com 210 cm de comprimento e mesma espessura e largura nas vigas com emendas. Estas apresentaram excelente desempenho em termos de resistência, em alguns casos, superando a resistência da viga-testemunha. Quanto à rigidez, o desempenho foi considerado adequado, já que os deslocamentos das vigas com cobrejuntas foram em média 20% inferiores aos da viga-testemunha submetida a uma mesma magnitude de carga, o que as proporciona melhor desempenho estrutural.
Estudo comparativo da massa específica aparente e retratibilidade da madeira de pau-brasil (Caesalpinia echinata LAM.) nativa e de reflorestamento
Authors: Marques Sinval dos Santos , Oliveira José Tarcísio da Silva , Paes Juarez Benigno , Alves Edenise Segala , Silva Aderbal Gomes da , Fiedler Nilton César
Published: May 2012

Entre as propriedades físicas da madeira, a massa específica aparente e a retratibilidade são características importantes na avaliação da qualidade da madeira para ampla gama de uso. A massa específica aparente, ou densidade aparente, está relacionada a uma série de outras características, principalmente àquelas relacionadas às propriedades mecânicas e anatômicas da madeira. Do mesmo modo, a retratibilidade também é importante característica, pois avalia a estabilidade dimensional das madeiras, sendo de grande importância para aplicações em que a madeira não deve apresentar contrações excessivas durante sua utilização. Com base nisso, este estudo teve como objetivo comparar a massa específica aparente e a retratibilidade da madeira de pau-brasil, proveniente de áreas naturais e de reflorestamentos com 10, 15, 20, 26 e 30 anos. Tais avaliações foram realizadas segundo a metodologia preconizada pelo Método Brasileiro 26/1940 da Associação Brasileira de Normas Técnicas. Os resultados indicaram que houve variação na massa específica aparente nas diferentes idades, com os maiores valores para a madeira de 30 anos de idade, que foram próximos aos encontrados para amostras de madeira nativa. A retratibilidade volumétrica total também variou em função da idade, não apresentando grande diferença em relação à madeira proveniente de áreas naturais.
Influência das variacões estacionais e profundidade de sementes no solo na dormência e germinação em Rumex crispus L.
Authors: Carmona Ricardo
Published: May 2012

Sementes de Rumex cripus L. foram enterradas às profundidades de 1 e 10 cm no solo e coletadas a intervalos regulares durante dois anos. As sementes coletadas foram testadas a 10 e 20oC no escuro; a 5/25oC (16/8 horas) com 10mM de nitrato de potássio e luz; e num regime de temperatura alternadas correspondendo às mínimas e máximas médias do solo (MMTS), a profundidade de 1 cm durante 6 dias anteriores a cada coleta. Os tratamentos MMTS foram executados no escuro com 1 mM de nitrato de potássio ou uma mistura de estimulantes de germinação consistindo de nitrato de potássio, tiuréia, etefon, azida de sódio e peróxido de hidrogênio. A perda de viabilidade das sementes no solo durante o período estudado foi praticamente desprezível. As sementes mostraram ciclos de dormência ao longo do ano, quando as baixas temperaturas do solo superaram a dormência primária e paralelamente induziram dormência secundária, a qual por sua vez era superada pela elevação da temperatura. A dormência decresceu no segundo ano. O ambiente a 10 cm favoreceu a perda de dormência, entretanto o decréscimo de sementes devido à germinação in situ foi mais acentuado a 1cm de profundidade. A mistura química foi mais eficiente quando a dormência era mínima e as temperaturas do solo eram mais promotivas, o que correspondeu ao período quente do ano (da primavera ao outono). Discutem-se as implicações destes resultados na interpretação do comportamento ecológico da espécie e na adoção de práticas de manejo de bancos de sementes da invasora no solo.
Injúria potencial de herbicidas de solo ao girassol: I - clomazone
Authors: Vidal Ribas A. , Flecks Nilson G.
Published: May 2012

Conduziu-se um ensaio de campo na Estação Experimental Agronômica da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, em Eldorado do Sul, RS, em 1989/90. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o efeito residual potencial do herbicida clomazone, aplicado em três doses à superfície do solo (PRE) ou incorporado no mesmo (PPI), sobre a cultura de girassol. Através de ensaio complementar, realizado em casa-de-vegetação em 1990, procurou-se determinar o local de absorção de clomazone por plântulas de girassol. A localização de clomazone no solo foi muito importante na determinação de sua injúria para o girassol. A campo, clomazone promoveu injúria mais acentuada nas plântulas, quando aplicado em PRE do que em PPI. Clomazone, aparentemente, foi mais absorvido pelo hipocótilo do que pelo sistema radicular das plantulas de girassol. No entanto, nas maiores doses, a fitotoxicidade em PPI se acentuou com o decorrer do tempo, a ponto de desaparecerem as diferenças entre épocas de aplicação.
Injúria potencial de herbicidas de solo ao girassol: II - chlorimuron-ethyl
Authors: Fleck Nilson G. , Vidal Ribas A.
Published: May 2012

Conduziu-se um ensaio de campo na Estação Experimental Agronômica da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, em Eldorado do Sul, RS em 1989/90. O objetivo do trabalho foi determinar o efeito residual potencial do herbicida chlorimuron-ethyl aplicado em três doses à superficie do solo (PRE) ou incorporado no mesmo (PPI), sobre a cultura de girassol. A atividade de chlorimuron-ethyl (etil 2-((((4-cloro-6-metoxipirimidina-2 il)amino)carbonil)amino)sulfonil)benzoato) não foi dependente de sua posição no solo. Chlorimuron-ethyl promoveu injúria inicial acentuada, constatando-se pouca ou nenhuma resposta ao aumento da dose para matéria seca da parte aérea do girassol, área foliar e estatura das plântulas. Contudo, avaliação de estatura das plantas, realizada na maturação fisiológica, indicou que os danos promovidos pelo herbicida reduziram-se com o decorrer do tempo. Concluiu-se que, aparentemente, num sistema de sucessão soja-girassol, o efeito residual potencial de chlorimuron-ethyl ao girassol é pequeno.