bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of naris occlusion on mouse nasal turbinate development
Authors: Coppola David , Craven Brent
Published: December 2013

Unilateral naris occlusion, a standard method for causing odor deprivation, also alters airflow on both sides of the nasal cavity. We reasoned that manipulating airflow by occlusion could affect nasal turbinate development given the ubiquitous role of environmental stimuli in ontogenesis. To test this hypothesis, newborn mice received unilateral occlusion or sham surgery and were allowed to reach adulthood. Morphological measurements were then made of paraffin sections sampled throughout the nasal cavity. Occlusion significant affected the size, shape, and position of turbinates. In particular, the nasoturbinate, the focus of our quantitative analysis, had a more delicate appearance on the occluded side relative to the open side. Occlusion also caused an increase in the width of the dorsal meatus within the non-occluded and occluded nasal fossae, compared to controls, and the position of most turbinates was altered. These results suggest that a mechanical stimulus from respiratory airflow is necessary for the normal morphological development of turbinates. To explore this idea, we estimated the mechanical forces on turbinates due to airflow during normal respiration that would be abrogated by occlusion. MRI scans were used to construct a 3D model of the mouse nasal cavity that provided the input for a computational fluid dynamics simulation of nasal airflow. The simulation revealed maximum shear stress values for the walls of turbinates in the 1 Pa range, a magnitude that causes remodeling in other biological tissues. These observations raise the intriguing possibility that nasal turbinates develop partly under the control of respiratory mechanical forces.
Suspended sediment prolongs larval development in a coral reef fish
Authors: Wenger Amelia , McCormick Mark , Endo Geoffrey , McLeod Ian , Kroon Frederieke , Jones Geoffrey
Published: December 2013

Increasing sediment input into coastal environments is having a profound influence on shallow marine habitats and associated species. Coral reef ecosystems appear to be particularly sensitive, with increased sediment deposition and re-suspension being associated with declines in the abundance and diversity of coral reef fishes. While recent research has demonstrated that suspended sediment can have negative impacts on post-settlement coral reef fishes, its effect on larval development has not been investigated. In this study, we tested the effects of different levels of suspended sediment on larval growth and development time in Amphiprion percula, a coral reef damselfish. Larvae were subjected to four experimental concentrations of suspended sediment spanning the range found around coastal coral reefs (0-45 mg L-1). Larval duration was significantly longer in all sediment treatments (~12.5d) compared to the average larval duration in the control treatment (11d). Approximately three quarters of the fish in the control had settled by day 11, compared to only 40-46% among the sediment treatments. In the highest sediment treatment, some individuals had a larval duration twice that of the mean median duration in the control treatment. Unexpectedly, in the low sediment treatment, fish at settlement were significantly were longer and heavier compared to the other treatments, suggesting delayed development was independent of individual condition. A sediment-induced extension of the pelagic larval stage could significantly reduce numbers of larvae competent to settle, and in turn, have major effects on adult population dynamics.
Calcium uptake in aquatic insects: Influences of phylogeny and metals (Cd and Zn)
Authors: Poteat Monica , Buchwalter David
Published: December 2013

Calcium sequestration in the hypo-osmotic freshwater environment is imperative in maintaining calcium homeostasis in freshwater aquatic organisms. This uptake process is reported to have the unintended consequence of potentially toxic heavy metal (Cd, Zn) uptake in a variety of aquatic species. However, calcium uptake remains poorly understood in aquatic insects, the dominant invertebrate faunal group on most freshwater ecosystems. Here we examined Ca uptake and interactions with heavy metals (Cd, Zn) at low ambient Ca levels (12.5 μmol l-1) in 12 aquatic insect species within Ephemerellidae (mayfly) and Hydropsychidae (caddis fly), two families differentially responsive to trace metal pollution. We found Ca uptake varied 70-fold across the 12 species studied. Body weight and clade (family) were found to significantly influence both Ca uptake and adsorption (p < 0.05). Zn and Cd uptake rate constants (kus) exhibited a strong correlation (r = 0.96, p < 0.0001), suggesting a shared transport system. Ca uptake failed to significantly correlate with either Zn or Cd kus. Further, neither Zn nor Cd exhibited inhibitory effects toward Ca uptake. In fact we saw evidence of modest stimulation of Ca uptake rates in some metal treatments. This work suggests that insects generally differ from other freshwater taxa in that aqueous Ca uptake does not appear to be compromised by Cd or Zn exposure. It is important to understand the trace metal and major ion physiology of aquatic insects due to their ecological importance and widespread use as ecological indicators.
“Reverse Bayesianism”: A Choice-Based Theory of Growing Awareness
Authors: Karni Edi , Vierø Marie-Louise
Published: December 2013

This article introduces a new approach to modeling the expanding universe of decision makers in the wake of growing awareness, and invokes the axiomatic approach to model the evolution of decision makers' beliefs as awareness grows. The expanding universe is accompanied by extension of the set of acts, the preference relations over which are linked by a new axiom, invariant risk preferences, asserting that the ranking of lotteries is independent of the set of acts under consideration. The main results are representation theorems and rules for updating beliefs over expanding state spaces and events that have the flavor of “reverse Bayesianism.” (JEL D81, D83)
Conclusions Regarding Cross-Group Differences in Happiness Depend on Difficulty of Reaching Respondents
Authors: Heffetz Ori , Rabin Matthew
Published: December 2013

A growing literature explores differences in subjective well-being across demographic groups, often relying on surveys with high nonresponse rates. By using the reported number of call attempts made to participants in the University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers, we show that comparisons among easy-to-reach respondents differ from comparisons among hard-to-reach ones. Notably, easy-to-reach women are happier than easy-to-reach men, but hard-to-reach men are happier than hard-to-reach women, and conclusions of a survey could reverse with more attempted calls. Better alternatives to comparing group sample averages might include putting greater weight on hard-to-reach respondents or even extrapolating trends in responses. (JEL C83, I31)
The inefficiency of property paradox in the modern Russian economy
Authors: Басовский  , Basovskiy Leonid , Басовская  , Basovskaya Elena
Published: December 2013

One of the factors that determine the productivity of labor in modern Russia

is employment in the private sector. Employment in the private sector

significantly reduces the productivity and efficiency of the economy. This is

confirmed by econometric models developed on the basis of the regional

statistics for 2001–2011. The negative impact of employment in the private

sector proves that the institution of private property is inadequate in this

country.

The greater the negative effect of the ownership factor, the lower the capital/

labor rate in the region. As a result an institutional trap has emerged. On the one

hand, to reduce the negative impact of institution of property imperfectness it

is necessary to raise the capital/labor ratio. On the other hand, investments,

needed to raise the capital/labor ratio, are inefficient due to that same negative

effect of institution of property imperfectness on the productivity of labor.

As the econometric analysis reveals, an essential factor which has heavily

(up to 70%) contributed to current imperfectness and inefficiency of the private

property institution is the federal policy embodied in a set of Federal laws

enacted in 2005–2011.
Influence of export of the macadamia on economy of Сolombia
Authors: Мора П.  , Mora P. Santiago E. , Гуэвара А.  , Guevara A. Sebastian A. , Баутиста В.  , Bautista V. Paola H.
Published: December 2013

Macadamia is one of the most potential export products of Colombia, due of its

high global demand, and a generator of economic growth and formal employment.

Therefore, this article will discuss about the impact of this crop in the

GDP’s growth of the major producing regions and employment generation in the

same, through statistical data and primary information, that will make an approach

in measuring the analyzed variables, and thus develop strategies that

allow the crop’s optimization and the creation of a higher added throughout the

production process.
Ways to internalize external effects in the modern russian economy
Authors: Хадиуллина  , Khadiullina G. , Хасанова  , Khasanova A. , Галиакберова  , Galiakberova L.
Published: December 2013

The author provides rationale for the theoretic and methodological approach to

contents of institutions of external effects internalization in using the

epistemological potential of neo-institutional concept. Based on the findings,

the authors have developed practical advice on how to design internalization

methods conducive to the steady progress of the Russian economy. Three

types of methods for designing the institutional environment are proposed – for

the State, for business entities and for households – given the conditions of

counter-productive assets allocation (according to Pareto) and high transaction

costs of complete contract negotiation and execution.
The sustainability of economic development of the countries of Southeast Asia
Authors: Басовский  , Basovskiy Leonid , Басовская  , Basovskaya Elena
Published: December 2013

The method of determination of turning points of economic development and

evaluation of economic dynamics. The turning points of economic development

proposed to diagnose on anomalous dispersion rates of economic growth. Type

the economic dynamics of the country invited to be determined by comparing

the average rate of economic growth and the growth of the world economy.

The risk of instability of economic dynamics are encouraged to estimate

indicator, reflecting the relative variation in the pace of economic growth in

comparison with the variation of the growth rate of the world economy.

To determine the prospects for economic development in South-East Asia

investigated the economic dynamics of Burma (Myanmar), Brunei, Vietnam,

Cambodia (Kampuchea), Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and

the Philippines. It is established that the countries of Southeast Asia except

Brunei is developing at an accelerated pace. Rates of growth of economy of

these countries exceed the growth rate of the world economy. South-East Asia

countries except Brunei are developing steadily. Stability and development of

Vietnam and Laos exceed the level of stability of development of the world

economy. Therefore, in South-East Asia should be considered to be preferable

business and trade partners of Vietnam and Laos.
Editorial: The 10th Rothkopf Rankings of Universities’ Contributions to the INFORMS Practice Literature
Authors: Fricker Ronald D.
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the 10th ranking of universities according to their contributions to the INFORMS practice literature. Two rankings are given, each based on a different metric: visibility is the number of times a university is listed as the primary academic affiliation in the INFORMS practice literature; yield is the equivalent number of INFORMS practice papers attributable to each university based on author primary academic affiliation. For U.S. universities, Georgia Institute of Technology ranks first in visibility, followed by the Naval Postgraduate School in second, and the Colorado School of Mines in third; for yield, the Naval Postgraduate School ranks first, followed by the Colorado School of Mines in second, and Georgia Institute of Technology third. For non-U.S. universities, the University of Chile ranks first and the University of Toronto ranks second for both visibility and yield, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology is third for visibility, and Cass Business School is third for yield.
The State of the Science of Employment and Economic Self-Sufficiency for People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Nord Derek , Luecking Richard , Mank David , Kiernan William , Wray Christina
Published: December 2013

Employment, career advancement, and financial independence are highly valued in the United States. As expectations, they are often instilled at a young age and incentivized throughout adulthood. Despite their importance, employment and economic sufficiency continue to be out of reach for most people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Over the last quarter century, extensive research and effort has been committed to understanding and improving these phenomena. This paper summarizes this employment research base by reviewing the literature on the effectiveness of the current employment support system, employment-specific interventions, and the economics and cost benefits of employment for people with IDD. Recommendations and directions for future research are also presented.
How Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A (VEGF) Regulates Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Berendsen Agnes D. , Olsen Bjorn R.
Published: December 2013

Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF), a key factor in angiogenesis, plays an essential role in skeletal development and postnatal homeostasis. VEGF serves as a survival factor for chondrocytes and couples the resorption of cartilage with bone formation during endochondral ossification. Recently, it has also been found to regulate the balance between osteoblast and adipocyte differentiation in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Surprisingly, this regulatory function of VEGF is not based on paracrine signaling involving cell surface receptor activation. Instead, the mechanism appears to utilize intracellular VEGF, which is functionally linked to the nuclear envelope protein lamin A. Lamin A and VEGF control osteoblast and adipocyte differentiation by regulating the levels of the osteoblast and adipocyte transcription factors Runx2 and PPARγ, respectively. These data raise the intriguing possibility that loss of bone mass during aging may be manipulated by controlling the levels and activity of intracellular VEGF in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells.
Development of DNA Damage Response Signaling Biomarkers using Automated, Quantitative Image Analysis
Authors: Nikolaishvilli-Feinberg Nana , Cohen Stephanie M. , Midkiff Bentley , Zhou Yingchun , Olorvida Mark , Ibrahim Joseph G. , Omolo Bernard , Shields Janiel M. , Thomas Nancy E. , Groben Pamela A. , Kaufmann William K. , Miller C. Ryan
Published: December 2013

The DNA damage response (DDR) coordinates DNA repair with cell cycle checkpoints to ameliorate or mitigate the pathological effects of DNA damage. Automated quantitative analysis (AQUA) and Tissue Studio are commercial technologies that use digitized immunofluorescence microscopy images to quantify antigen expression in defined tissue compartments. Because DDR is commonly activated in cancer and may reflect genetic instability within the lesion, a method to quantify DDR in cancer offers potential diagnostic and/or prognostic value. In this study, both AQUA and Tissue Studio algorithms were used to quantify the DDR in radiation-damaged skin fibroblasts, melanoma cell lines, moles, and primary and metastatic melanomas. Digital image analysis results for three markers of DDR (γH2AX, P-ATM, P-Chk2) correlated with immunoblot data for irradiated fibroblasts, whereas only γH2AX and P-Chk2 correlated with immunoblot data in melanoma cell lines. Melanoma cell lines displayed substantial variation in γH2AX and P-Chk2 expression, and P-Chk2 expression was significantly correlated with radioresistance. Moles, primary melanomas, and melanoma metastases in brain, lung and liver displayed substantial variation in γH2AX expression, similar to that observed in melanoma cell lines. Automated digital analysis of immunofluorescent images stained for DDR biomarkers may be useful for predicting tumor response to radiation and chemotherapy.
Bibliotheken der Zukunft – unbegrenzte Möglichkeiten
Authors: Altenhöner Reinhard , Frodl Christine , Gömpel Renate , Junger Ulrike , Mahnke Christel , Meyer-Heß Anke , Oehlschläger Susanne , Svensson Lars G.
Published: December 2013

Vom 17. bis 23. August 2013 hat in Singapur der Weltkongress Bibliothek und Information, die 79. IFLA-Generalkonferenz stattgefunden. In diesem Beitrag berichten Kolleginnen und Kollegen der Deutschen Nationalbibliothek sowie eine Kollegin vom Goethe-Institut Jakarta über die Veranstaltungen der Sektionen Bestandserhaltung, Bibliografie, Katalogisierung, Klassifikation und Indexierung, Informationstechnologie und Nationalbibliotheken sowie der Konferenz der Direktoren der Nationalbibliotheken.
Non-coralline crustose algae associated with maerl beds in Portugal: a reappraisal of their diversity in the Atlantic Iberian beds
Authors: Peña Viviana , Bárbara Ignacio
Published: December 2013

In recent years (2007–2009), the distribution and associated flora of maerl beds in southern Portugal (Algarve) were investigated by dredging and SCUBA diving (12–30 m depth). The present work provides the first data on the non-coralline crustose flora associated with maerl beds in Portugal. Peyssonnelia bornetii is a new record for Atlantic European coasts, and new records for Portugal are “Rhododiscus pulcherrimus” (sporophyte phase of Atractophora hypnoides), Contarinia peyssonneliaeformis, “Cruoria rosea” (sporophyte phase of Halarachnion ligulatum), Peyssonnelia armorica, and “Aglaozonia chilosa” (sporophyte phase of Cutleria chilosa). In addition, the records of three other species (Hildenbrandia crouaniorum, Peyssonnelia dubyi, and Peyssonnelia harveyana) completed the distribution gap between the North Iberian Peninsula and the Macaronesian region. The female and carposporangial structures of C. peyssonneliaeformis and P. bornetii are described for the first time. The diversity and species composition observed are compared with previous studies from maerl beds in the northwestern Iberian Peninsula (Galicia) and neighboring areas in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. In order to facilitate and promote further studies of the crustose flora of subtidal habitats along European coasts, an identification key is provided for the 26 crustose taxa associated with maerl and gravel beds of the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula.
Far-Infrared Drying Characteristics of Mushroom Slices
Authors: Darvishi Hosain , Najafi Gholamhassan , Hosainpour Adel , Khodaei Jala , Aazdbakht Mohsen
Published: December 2013

In this study, infrared drying characteristic of mushroom slices was investigated in the temperature range of 50–90°C. The drying data were fitted to five thin-layer drying models. The performance of these models was compared using the determination of coefficient (R2), reduced chi-square (χ2), and root mean square error between the observed and predicted moisture ratios. The values of the diffusivity coefficients at each temperature were obtained using Fick’s second law of diffusion. The drying processes were completed within 60–168 min at different temperatures. Experimental drying curves showed only a falling drying rate period. The results show that the logarithmic model is the most appropriate model for infrared drying behavior of thin-layer mushroom slices. A third-order polynomial relationship was found to correlate the effective moisture diffusivity with moisture content. The average effective moisture diffusivity increased with increasing temperature and decrease in moisture content of mushroom slices and varied from 8.039 × 10−10 to 20.618 × 10−10 m2/s. Arrhenius relation with an activation energy value of 21.85 kJ/mol expressed the effect of temperature on the average diffusivity. The minimum and the maximum energy requirements for drying of mushroom slices were also determined as 2.87 kW h/kg water and 5.36 kW h/kg water for 90 and 50°C, respectively.
An approach of the minimal model program for horospherical varieties via moment polytopes
Authors: Pasquier Boris
Published: December 2013

We describe the minimal model program in the family of ℚ-Gorenstein projective horospherical varieties, by studying a family of polytopes defined from the moment polytope of a Cartier divisor of the variety we begin with.
In particular, we generalize the results on MMP for toric varieties due to M. Reid, and we complete the results on MMP for spherical varieties due to M. Brion in the case of horospherical varieties.
Ethics and law in research with human biological samples: a new approach
Authors: Petrini Carlo
Published: December 2013

During the last century a large number of documents (regulations, ethical codes, treatises, declarations, conventions) were published on the subject of ethics and clinical trials, many of them focusing on the protection of research participants. More recently various proposals have been put forward to relax some of the constraints imposed on research by these documents and regulations. It is important to distinguish between risks deriving from direct interventions on human subjects and other types of risk. In Italy the Data Protection Authority has acted in the question of research using previously collected health data and biological samples to simplify the procedures regarding informed consent. The new approach may be of help to other researchers working outside Italy.
Melatonin and diet-induced metabolic syndrome in rats: impact on the hypophysial-testicular axis
Authors: Bernasconi Pablo A. Scacchi , Cardoso Nancy P. , Reynoso Roxana , Scacchi Pablo , Cardinali Daniel P.
Published: December 2013

Combinations of fructose- and fat-rich diets in experimental animals can model the human metabolic syndrome (MS). In rats, the increase in blood pressure (BP) after diet manipulation is sex related and highly dependent on testosterone secretion. However, the extent of the impact of diet on rodent hypophysial-testicular axis remains undefined. In the present study, rats drinking a 10% fructose solution or fed a high-fat (35%) diet for 10 weeks had higher plasma levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and lower plasma levels of testosterone, without significant changes in circulating follicle-stimulating hormone or the weight of most reproductive organs. Diet manipulation brought about a significant increase in body weight, systolic BP, area under the curve (AUC) of glycemia after an intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT), and plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, cholesterol, triglycerides, and uric acid levels. The concomitant administration of melatonin (25 μg/mL of drinking water) normalized the abnormally high LH levels but did not affect the inhibited testosterone secretion found in fructose- or high-fat-fed rats. Rather, melatonin per se inhibited testosterone secretion. Melatonin significantly blunted the body weight and systolic BP increase, the increase in the AUC of glycemia after an IPGTT, and the changes in circulating lipid profile and uric acid found in both MS models. The results are compatible with a primary inhibition of testicular function in diet-induced MS in rats and with the partial effectiveness of melatonin to counteract the metabolic but not the testicular sequelae of rodent MS.
Integrating electron and near-field optics: dual vision for the nanoworld
Authors: Haegel Nancy M.
Published: December 2013

The integration of near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) with the imaging and localized excitation capabilities of electrons in a scanning electron microscope (SEM) offers new capabilities for the observation of highly resolved transport phenomena in the areas of electronic and optical materials characterization, semiconductor nanodevices, plasmonics and integrated nanophotonics. While combined capabilities for atomic force microscopy (AFM) and SEM are of obvious interest to provide localized surface topography in concert with the ease and large spatial dynamic range of SEM and dual beam imaging (e.g., in-situ AFM following focused ion beam modification), integration with near-field optical imaging capability can also provide access to localized transport phenomena beyond the reach of far-field systems. In particular, the flexibility that is achieved with the capability for independent, high resolution placement of an electron source, providing localized excitation in the form of free carriers, photons or plasmons, with scanning of the optical collecting tip allows for unique types of “dual-probe” experiments that directly image energy transfer. We review integrated near-field and electron optics systems to date, highlight applications in a variety of fields and suggest future directions.
Direction Selectivity Mediated by Adaptation in the Owl's Inferior Colliculus
Authors: Wang Yunyan , Peña José Luis
Published: December 2013

Motion direction is a crucial cue for predicting future states in natural scenes. In the auditory system, the mechanisms that confer direction selectivity to neurons are not well understood. Neither is it known whether sound motion is encoded independently of stationary sound location. Here we investigated these questions in neurons of the owl's external nucleus of the inferior colliculus, where auditory space is represented in a map. Using a high-density speaker array, we show that the preferred direction and the degree of direction selectivity can be predicted by response adaptation to sounds moving over asymmetric spatial receptive fields. At the population level, we found that preference for sounds moving toward frontal space increased with eccentricity in spatial tuning. This distribution was consistent with larger receptive-field asymmetry in neurons tuned to more peripheral auditory space. A model of suppression based on spatiotemporal summation predicted the observations. Thus, response adaptation and receptive-field shape can explain direction selectivity to acoustic motion and an orderly distribution of preferred direction.
Electrophysiological Properties of Rostral Ventrolateral Medulla Presympathetic Neurons Modulated by the Respiratory Network in Rats
Authors: Moraes Davi J. A. , da Silva Melina P. , Bonagamba Leni G. H. , Mecawi André S. , Zoccal Daniel B. , Antunes-Rodrigues José , Varanda Wamberto A. , Machado Benedito H.
Published: December 2013

The respiratory pattern generator modulates the sympathetic outflow, the strength of which is enhanced by challenges produced by hypoxia. This coupling is due to the respiratory-modulated presympathetic neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), but the underlining electrophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. For a better understanding of the neural substrates responsible for generation of this respiratory-sympathetic coupling, we combined immunofluorescence, single cell qRT-pCR, and electrophysiological recordings of the RVLM presympathetic neurons inin situpreparations from normal rats and rats submitted to a metabolic challenge produced by chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH). Our results show that the spinally projected cathecholaminergic C1 and non-C1 respiratory-modulated RVLM presympathetic neurons constitute a heterogeneous neuronal population regarding the intrinsic electrophysiological properties, respiratory synaptic inputs, and expression of ionic currents, albeit all neurons presented persistent sodium current-dependent intrinsic pacemaker properties after synaptic blockade. A specific subpopulation of non-C1 respiratory-modulated RVLM presympathetic neurons presented enhanced excitatory synaptic inputs from the respiratory network after CIH. This phenomenon may contribute to the increased sympathetic activity observed in CIH rats. We conclude that the different respiratory-modulated RVLM presympathetic neurons contribute to the central generation of respiratory-sympathetic coupling as part of a complex neuronal network, which in response to the challenges produced by CIH contribute to respiratory-related increase in the sympathetic activity.
Neuroestradiol in the Hypothalamus Contributes to the Regulation of Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Release
Authors: Kenealy Brian P. , Kapoor Amita , Guerriero Kathryn A. , Keen Kim L. , Garcia James P. , Kurian Joseph R. , Ziegler Toni E. , Terasawa Ei
Published: December 2013

Release of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) from the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH)/median eminence region (S-ME) is essential for normal reproductive function. GnRH release is profoundly regulated by the negative and positive feedback effects of ovarian estradiol (E2). Here we report that neuroestradiol, released in the S-ME, also directly influences GnRH release in ovariectomized female monkeys, in which the ovarian source of E2is removed. We found that (1) brief infusion of E2benzoate (EB) to the S-ME rapidly stimulated release of GnRH and E2in the S-ME of ovariectomized monkeys, (2) electrical stimulation of the MBH resulted in GnRH release as well as E2release, and (3) direct infusion of an aromatase inhibitor to the S-ME suppressed spontaneous GnRH release as well as the EB-induced release of GnRH and E2. These findings reveal the importance of neuroestradiol as a neurotransmitter in regulation of GnRH release. How circulating ovarian E2interacts with hypothalamic neuroestrogens in the control of GnRH release remains to be investigated.
Changes in mRNA expression of arcuate nucleus appetite-regulating peptides during lactation in rats
Authors: Suzuki Yoshihiro , Nakahara Keiko , Maruyama Keisuke , Okame Rieko , Ensho Takuya , Inoue Yoshiyuki , Murakami Noboru
Published: December 2013

The contribution of hypothalamic appetite-regulating peptides to further hyperphagia accompanying the course of lactation in rats was investigated by using PCR array and real-time PCR. Furthermore, changes in the mRNA expression for appetite-regulating peptides in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) were analyzed at all stages of pregnancy and lactation, and also after weaning. Food intake was significantly higher during pregnancy, lactation, and after weaning than during non-lactation periods. During lactation, ARC expression of mRNAs for agouti-related protein (AgRP) and peptide YY was increased, whereas that of mRNAs for proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and cholecystokinin (CCK) was decreased, in comparison with non-lactation periods. The increase in AgRP mRNA expression during lactation was especially marked. The plasma level of leptin was significantly decreased during the course of lactation, whereas that of acyl-ghrelin was unchanged. In addition, food intake was negatively correlated with the plasma leptin level during lactation. This study has clarified synchronous changes in the expression of many appetite-regulating peptides in ARC of rats during lactation. Our results suggest that hyperphagia during lactation in rats is caused by decreases in POMC and CCK expression and increases in AgRP expression in ARC, the latter being most notable. Together with the decrease in the blood leptin level, such changes in mRNA expression may explain the further hyperphagia accompanying the course of lactation.
Glucocorticoids and foetal heart maturation; implications for prematurity and foetal programming
Authors: Rog-Zielinska Eva A , Richardson Rachel V , Denvir Martin A , Chapman Karen E
Published: December 2013

Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones, essential in mammals to prepare for life after birth. Blood levels of glucocorticoids (cortisol in most mammals including humans; corticosterone in rats and mice) rise dramatically shortly before birth. This is mimicked clinically in the routine administration of synthetic glucocorticoids to pregnant women threatened by a preterm birth or to preterm infants to improve neonatal survival. Whilst effects on lung are well documented and essential for postnatal survival, those on heart are less well known. In this study, we review recent evidence for a crucial role of glucocorticoids in late gestational heart maturation. Either insufficient or excessive glucocorticoid exposure before birth may alter the normal glucocorticoid-regulated trajectory of heart maturation with potential life-long consequences.
Effects of Implant Drill Wear, Irrigation, and Drill Materials on Heat Generation in Osteotomy Sites
Authors: Koo Ki-Tae , Kim Min-Ho , Kim Hae-Young , Wikesjö Ulf M. E. , Yang Jae-Ho , Yeo In-Sung
Published: December 2013

This study evaluated the effects of drill wear on bone temperature during osteotomy preparation with 3 types of drills and compared heat production between drills. The drills used in this study were titanium nitride-coated metal, tungsten carbide carbon-coated metal, and zirconia ceramic drills. An osteotomy 11 mm in depth was formed in bovine scapular bone following the manufacturer's recommended drill sequences. Drilling was performed without irrigation and repeated 20 times; temperature was measured every 5 times. Next, 200 rounds of drilling during irrigation were performed for each drill, with temperature change monitored until round 200. Analysis of variance statistics were used for analyses of the measured data. Drilling without irrigation showed significant thermal increase at all time points compared to drilling with irrigation (P < .001). No significant difference was found between drill materials. Under irrigation, the frequency of previous drilling had minimal effects on thermal change. The repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed major thermal change at the initial time point (P < .0001), and the multiple comparison tests revealed a significant difference in temperature between the initial drills that had been used 50 or fewer times and those that had been used more than 50 times, irrespective of the drill material. The results of this study indicate that the initial drill should be changed in osteotomy preparation with irrigation after they have been used 50 times. Irrigation may be a more critical factor for the control of temperature elevation than is the drill material.
The Volume Behavior of Autogenous Iliac Bone Grafts After Sinus Floor Elevation: A Clinical Pilot Study
Authors: Gerressen Marcus , Riediger Dieter , Hilgers Ralf-Dieter , Hölzle Frank , Noroozi Nelson , Ghassemi Alireza
Published: December 2013

Iliac crest is still regarded as one of the most viable source of autogenous graft materials for extensive sinus floor elevation. Three-dimensional resorption behavior has to be taken into account in anticipation of the subsequent insertion of dental implants. We performed 3-dimensional volume measurements of the inserted bone transplants in 11 patients (6 women and 5 men; mean age = 2.3 years) who underwent bilateral sinus floor elevation with autogenous iliac crest grafts. In order to determine the respective bone graft volumes, cone-beam computerized tomography studies of the maxillary sinuses were carried out directly after the operation (T0), as well as 3 months (T1) and 6 months (T2) postoperatively. The acquired DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) data sets were evaluated using suitable analysis software. We evaluated statistical significance of graft volumes changes using a linear mixed model with the grouping factors for time, age, side, and sex with a significance level of P = .05. 38.9% of the initial bone graft volume, which amounted to 4.2 cm3, was resorbed until T1. At T2, the average volume again decreased significantly by 18.9 % to finally reach 1.8 cm3. The results show neither age nor side dependency and apply equally to both sexes. Without functional load, iliac bone grafts feature low-volume stability in sinus-augmentation surgery. Further clinical and animal studies should be done to detect the optimal timing for implant placement.
Correlation of soil properties with weed ocurrence in sugarcane areas
Authors: Lousada L.L. , Freitas S.P. , Marciano C.R. , Esteves B.S. , Muniz R.A. , Siqueira D.P.
Published: December 2013

Soil properties can influence weed community composition and weed density agricultural area. Knowing this relationship would allow to choose the best strategy for the control of such plants. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between weed density and chemical and physical attributes of soil in three areas (UCO, USC, and UPA) for commercial sugarcane cultivation in Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ. Grids of 40 m x 40 m were established in the areas, and soil samples were collected at the intersection points for physical and chemical analysis and evaluation of the soil seed bank (SSB), followed by a phyto-sociological survey of the weeds present. Samples were collected during two periods: February/March and June/July, 2010. SSB presented the greatest number of species per vegetation evaluated in the two sampling periods. Clay content had a positive effect leading to greater weed density in all areas (UCO, USC and UPA) in at least one of the densities (0-10 and 10-20 cm). On the other hand, sand content, when significant, presented a negative correlation with plant density in all the SSB areas analyzed. The pH negatively influenced the density of the species found through the phyto-sociological survey at USC and UPA. Cyperus rotundus, dominant in all areas, correlated positively with phosphorus, potassium, and clay content and negatively with pH and high sand content.
Características fisiológicas de biótipos de Conyza bonariensis Resistentes ao glyphosate cultivados sob competição
Authors: Galon L. , Ferreira E.A. , Concenço G. , Silva A.A. , Silva D.V. , Silva A.F. , Aspiazú I , Vargas L.
Published: December 2013

A resistência de plantas daninhas a herbicidas está relacionada a modificações metabólicas, enzimáticas, fisiológicas e/ou anatômicas. Aliado a essas mudanças, a planta pode aumentar ou diminuir as atividades fisiológicas, o que, consequentemente, pode afetar o seu crescimento e desenvolvimento. Assim, biótipos resistentes podem apresentar melhor adaptação ecológica em ambientes de cultivo e tornar-se predominantes devido à eliminação das plantas sensíveis. Em condições de seleção natural, biótipos com maior adaptação ecológica apresentam maior produção que biótipos menos adaptados. Neste trabalho, avaliou-se o efeito da competição em características fisiológicas de biótipos de Conyza bonariensis suscetíveis e resistentes ao herbicida glyphosate. Os tratamentos constaram de plantas de dois biótipos de C. bonariensis - um comprovadamente resistente e um suscetível ao glyphosate, dispostas em modelo aditivo de estudo de competição. No centro da unidade experimental foram semeadas três sementes do biótipo considerado como o tratamento: resistente (R) ou suscetível (S), sendo essa planta rodeada por 0 (testemunha sem competição), 1, 2, 3, 4, ou 5 plantas do biótipo oposto. O biótipo suscetível apresentou-se mais tolerante à competição com plantas do biótipo oposto no tocante às características fisiológicas avaliadas. O biótipo resistente de buva apresenta desvantagem fisiológica em relação ao suscetível e, consequentemente, menor potencial de adaptabilidade na ausência do fator de seleção - o herbicida glyphosate.
Acetolactate synthase activity in Euphorbia heterophylla resistant to ALS- and protox- inhibiting herbicides
Authors: Xavier E. , Oliveira M.C. , Trezzi M.M. , Vidal R.A. , Diesel F. , Pagnoncelli F.D. , Scalcon E.
Published: December 2013

The objective of this study was to determine the activity of the enzyme acetolactate synthase in biotypes of wild poinsettia (Euphorbia heterophylla) with multiple resistance to ALS- and Protox- inhibitors in the presence and absence of imazapyr, imazethapyr and nicosulfuron. We conducted in vitro assay of ALS enzyme extracted from plants of Vitorino, Bom Sucesso do Sul and Medianeira biotypes (with multiple resistance) and a susceptible population in the absence and presence of imazapyr, imazethapyr and nicosulfuron. In the absence of herbicides, biotypes with multiple resistance showed higher affinity for the substrate of the enzyme compared with the susceptible population. The herbicides imazapyr, imazethapyr and nicosulfuron had little effect on the enzyme activity of ALS-resistant biotypes and, conversely, high inhibitory effect on ALS of the susceptible population. Resistance factors were very high, greater than 438, 963 and 474 for Vitorino, Bom Sucesso do Sul and Medianeira biotypes, respectively. The resistance to ALS inhibitors is due to the insensitivity of ALS to herbicides of both imidazolinone and sulfonylurea groups, characterizing a cross-resistance.
Sorption of fomesafen in Brazilian soils
Authors: Silva G.R. , D'Antonino L. , Faustino L.A. , Silva A.A. , Ferreira F.A. , Texeira C.C.
Published: December 2013

The study of the dynamics of a herbicide in the soil focus on the interactions with environmental components to obtain agronomic efficiency, ensuring selectivity to the culture and risk reduction of environmental impact. This study evaluated the sorption process of fomesafen in the Brazilian soils Ultisol, Cambisol, and Organosol. Besides soil, washed sand was used as an inert material for determination of the sorption ratio of fomesafen in the soil. The bioassay method was applied, using Sorghum vulgare plants as bio-indicator of herbicide presence. Plant poisoning evaluation and harvest for dry matter determination were carried out 21 days after sorghum sowing. To calculate C50, the nonlinear log-logistic model was applied and sorption ratios of the herbicide were obtained in different soils. The decreasing sorption ratio of formesafen in the soils was: Organosol > Ultisol > Cambisol. It was concluded that the contents of organic matter and clay in the soils were the attributes that most influenced fomesafen sorption.
Directed-spray application of paraquat and diuron in physic nut plants
Authors: Costa N.V. , Neunfeld T.H. , Ohland T. , Piano J.T. , Klein J.
Published: December 2013

There is little information about the selectivity of herbicides in physic nut (Jatropha curcas) in Brazil. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the selectivity of different doses and mixtures of paraquat and diuron in direted-spray applications in physic nut plants in greenhouse conditions. The study used a randomized block design, with five replicates. The treatments were: paraquat (200 and 600 g ha-1), diuron (1,000 and 2,000 g ha-1), paraquat + diuron (200 + 1,000 g ha-1), paraquat + diuron (200 + 2,000 g ha-1), paraquat + diuron (600 + 1,000 g ha-1), paraquat + diuron (600 + 2,000 g ha-1) and a control (no application). Directed-spray application was performed at 70 days after sowing by the lower third of the plants. The treatments of diuron and paraquat + diuron mixtures affected the growth and photosynthetic activity of physic nut plants, injuries being more pronounced at doses of diuron of 2,000 g ha‑1, while the isolated application of paraquat at doses of 200 and 600 g ha-1 showed good selectivity potential for physic nut plants.
Treatment of midfacial hypoplasia in syndromic and cleft lip and palate patients by means of a rigid external distractor (RED)
Authors: Sant'Anna Eduardo Franzotti , Cury-Saramago Adriana de Alcantara , Lau Geórgia Wain Thi , Polley John W. , Figueroa Álvaro A.
Published: December 2013

INTRODUCTION: Distraction Osteogenesis (DO) became an alternative for the treatment of severe craniofacial skeletal dysplasias. The rigid external distraction device (RED) is successfully used to advance the maxilla and all the maxillary-orbital-frontal complex (monobloc) in children, adolescents and adults. This approach provides predictable and stable results, and it can be applied alone or with craniofacial orthognathic surgical procedures. OBJECTIVE: In the present article, the technical aspects relevant to an adequate application of the RED will be described, including the planning, surgical and orthodontic procedures.
Rate and Application Timing Effects on Tolerance of Covington Sweetpotato to S-Metolachlor
Authors: Meyers Stephen L. , Jennings Katherine M. , Monks David W. , Miller Donnie K. , Shankle Mark W.
Published: December 2013

Field studies were conducted in 2011 and 2012 at the Horticultural Crops Research Station near Clinton, NC, to determine ‘Covington' sweetpotato tolerance to S-metolachlor rate and application timing. Treatments were a factorial arrangement of four S-metolachlor rates (0, 1.1, 2.2, or 3.4 kg ai ha−1) and six application timings (0, 2, 5, 7, 9, or 14 d after transplanting [DAP]). Immediately following application, 1.9 cm of irrigation was applied to individual plots. Sweetpotato injury was minimal for all treatments (≤ 10%). No. 1 grade sweetpotato yield displayed a negative linear response to S-metolachlor rate, and decreased from 25,110 to 20,100 kg ha−1 as S-metolachlor rate increased from 0 to 3.4 kg ha−1. Conversely, no. 1 sweetpotato yield displayed a positive linear response to S-metolachlor application timing and increased from 19,670 to 27,090 kg ha−1 as timing progressed from 0 to 14 DAP. Total marketable sweetpotato yield displayed a quadratic response to both S-metolachlor application rate and timing. Total marketable yield decreased from 44,950 to 30,690 kg ha−1 as S-metolachlor rate increased from 0 to 3.4 kg ha−1. Total marketable yield increased from 37,800 to 45,780 kg ha−1 as application timing was delayed from 0 to 14 DAP. At 1.1 kg ha−1S-metolachlor, sweetpotato storage root length to width ratio displayed a quadratic relationship to application timing and increased from 1.87 to 2.23 for applications made 0 to 14 DAP. At 2.2 kg ha−1 of S-metolachlor, sweetpotato length to width ratio displayed a quadratic response to application timing, increased from 1.57 to 2.09 for 0 to 10 DAP, and decreased slightly from 2.09 to 2.03 for 10 to 14 DAP. Application timing did not influence length to width ratio of sweetpotato storage roots for those plots treated with S-metolachlor at either 0 or 3.4 kg ha−1.