bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress in Wildlife Species: Noninvasive Monitoring of Glucocorticoids
Authors: Romano Marta C. , Rodas Alba Zulema , Valdez Ricardo A. , Hernández Sandra Elizabeth , Galindo Francisco , Canales Domingo , Brousset Dulce Maria
Published: February 2010

Depression and stress are related pathologies extensively studied in humans. However, this relationship is not well known in animals kept in zoos and even less known in wild animals. In zoo animals, acute and chronic stress caused by difficulties in coping with stressors such as public presence and noise, among others, can induce the appearance of repetitive pathological behaviors such as stereotypies, many times associated with organic pathologies that deeply affect their health and welfare. In the wild, factors such as deforestation, habitat fragmentation, lack of food and water, and human disturbances are potential causes of acute and chronic stress for the resident fauna. Glucocorticoids (GC) have been extensively used as stress indicators in many species including humans. Since chase and handling of wild animals immediately raise their GC serum levels, noninvasive methods have been developed to assess stress without interference caused by sample collection. The hormones and their metabolites can be measured in various body fluids and excreta and detect basal feedback free hormone concentrations as well as the response to ACTH and handling. In order to study the influence of disturbing factors we have measured GC as stress indicators by noninvasive techniques in dolphins and felids (ocelots, jaguarundis and margays) and cortisol and testosterone in spider monkeys.
Comparison of Arterial and Venous Blood Gases and the Effects of Analysis Delay and Air Contamination on Arterial Samples in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Healthy Controls
Authors: O’Connor T.M. , Barry P.J. , Jahangir A. , Finn C. , Buckley B.M. , El-Gammal A.
Published: February 2010

Background: Arterial blood gases (ABGs) are often sampled incorrectly, leading to a ‘mixed’ or venous sample. Delays in analysis and air contamination are common. Objectives: We measured the effects of these errors in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations and controls. Methods: Arterial and venous samples were analyzed from 30 patients with COPD exacerbation and 30 controls. Venous samples were analysed immediately and arterial samples separated into non-air-contaminated and air-contaminated specimens and analysed at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 180 min. Results: Mean venous pH was 7.371 and arterial pH was 7.407 (p < 0.0001). There was a correlation between venous and arterial pH (r = 0.5347, p < 0.0001). The regression equation to predict arterial pH was: arterial pH = 4.2289 + 0.43113 · venous pH. There were no clinically significant differences in arterial PO2 associated with analysis delay. A statistically significant decline in pH was detected at 30 min in patients with COPD exacerbation (p = 0.0042) and 90 min in controls (p < 0.0001). A clinically significant decline in pH emerged at 73 min in patients with COPD exacerbation and 87 min in controls. Air contamination was associated with a clinically significant increase in PO2 in all samples, including those that were immediately analyzed. Conclusions: Arterial and venous pH differ significantly. Venous pH cannot accurately replace arterial pH. Temporal delays in ABG analysis result in a significant decline in measured pH. ABGs should be analysed within 30 min. Air contamination leads to an immediate increase in measured PO2, indicating that air-contaminated ABGs should be discarded.
Proteolytic Inactivation of LL-37 by Karilysin, a Novel Virulence Mechanism of Tannerella forsythia
Authors: Koziel Joanna , Karim Aabdulkarim Y. , Przybyszewska Kornelia , Ksiazek Miroslaw , Rapala-Kozik Maria , Nguyen Ky-Anh , Potempa Jan
Published: February 2010

Tannerella forsythia is a gram-negative bacterium strongly associated with the development and/or progression of periodontal disease. Here, we have shown that a newly characterized matrix metalloprotease-like enzyme, referred to as karilysin, efficiently cleaved the antimicrobial peptide LL-37, significantly reducing its bactericidal activity. This may contribute to the resistance of T. forsythia to the antibacterial activity of LL-37, since their vitality was found not to be affected by LL-37 at concentrations up to 2.2 µM. Furthermore, proteolysis of LL-37 by karilysin not only abolished its ability to bind lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to quench endotoxin-induced proinflammatory activity, but LL-37 cleavage also caused the release of active endotoxin from the LPS/LL-37 complex. Proteolytic inactivation of LL-37 bactericidal activity by karilysin may protect LL-37-sensitive species in the subgingival plaque and maintain the local inflammatory reaction driven by LPS from gram-negative bacteria. Consequently, the karilysin protease may directly contribute to periodontal tissue damage and the development and/or progression of chronic periodontitis.
Low-molecular-weight heparin from Cu2+ and Fe2+ Fenton type depolymerisation processes
Authors: Pierini Monica , Liverani Lino , Lima Marcelo , Guerrini Marco , Torri Giangiacomo , Vismara Elena , Mascellani Giuseppe
Published: February 2010

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and Cu(OAc)2 or FeSO4 (Fenton type reagents) perform heparin (Hep) depolymerisation to low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) following a radical chain mechanism. Hydroxyl (OH) radicals which are initially generated from H2O2 reduction by transition metal ions abstract hydrogen atoms on the heparin chain providing carbon centred radicals whose decay leads to the depolymerisation process. The main depolymerisation mechanism involves Hep radical intermediates that cleave the glycosidic linkage at unsulphated uronic acids followed by a 6-O-nonsulphated glucosamine, thus largely preserving the pentasaccharide sequence responsible for the binding to antithrombin III (AT). Both the transition metal ions influence the overall efficiency of the radical chain processes: Fe2+ acting as a catalyst, while Cu2+ acts as a reagent. LMWHs, especially those afforded by Cu2+, are somewhat unstable to the usual basic workup. However, this lack of stability can be eliminated by a previous NaBH4 reduction. Furthermore, with Cu2+, the process is much more reproducible than with Fe2+. Therefore, for the process of Fenton type depolymerisation of heparin, the use of Cu(OAc)2 is clearly preferable to the more “classical” FeSO4. The resulting activities and characteristics of these LMWHs are peculiar to these oxidative radical processes. In addition, LMWH provided by H2O2/Cu(OAc)2 in optimised conditions was found to posses anti-Xa and anti-IIa activities comparable to those of LMWHs currently in clinical use.

Footnote: Dedicated to Prof. Pietro Bianchini.
Effects of diacerein at the molecular level in the osteoarthritis disease process
Authors: Martel-Pelletier Johanne , Pelletier Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2010

In osteoarthritis (OA), the alterations in joint tissues are numerous and involve morphological, biochemical and metabolic changes and an upregulation of the inflammatory pathways. The focus of this article is a brief narrative review of the effects of diacerein, an antirheumatic drug from the anthraquinone chemical class, and its active metabolite, rhein, on the factors that participate in the complex interaction between OA tissues and cells leading to the progression of joint structural changes.
Impaired NK-cell migration in WAS/XLT patients: role of Cdc42/WASp pathway in the control of chemokine-induced β2 integrin high-affinity state
Authors: Stabile Helena , Carlino Claudia , Mazza Cinzia , Giliani Silvia , Morrone Stefania , Notarangelo Lucia D. , Notarangelo Luigi D. , Santoni Angela , Gismondi Angela
Published: February 2010

We analyzed the involvement of Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp), a critical regulator of actin cytoskeleton remodeling, in the control of natural killer (NK)–cell migration. NK cells derived from patients with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome/X-linked thrombocytopenia (WAS/XLT), carrying different mutations in the WASP coding gene, displayed reduced migration through intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), or endothelial cells in response to CXCL12/stromal cell–derived factor-1 and CX3CL1/fractalkine. Inhibition of WAS/XLT NK-cell migration was associated with reduced ability of these cells to up-regulate the expression of CD18 activation neoepitope and to adhere to ICAM-1 or VCAM-1 following chemokine stimulation. Moreover, chemokine receptor or β1 or β2 integrin engagement on NK cells rapidly resulted in Cdc42 activation and WASp tyrosine phosphorylation as well as in WASp association with Fyn and Pyk-2 tyrosine kinases. NK-cell pretreatment with wiskostatin, to prevent Cdc42/WASp association, impaired chemokine-induced NK-cell migration through ICAM-1 and β2 integrin activation-dependent neoepitope expression. These results show that the Cdc42/WASp pathway plays a crucial role in the regulation of NK-cell migration by acting as a critical component of the chemokine-induced inside-out signaling that regulates lymphocyte function–associated antigen-1 function and suggest that after integrin or chemokine receptor engagement WASp function is regulated by the coordinate action of both Cdc42 and tyrosine kinases.
Whole-genome sequencing of a laboratory-evolved yeast strain
Authors: Araya Carlos L , Payen Celia , Dunham Maitreya J , Fields Stanley
Published: February 2010

Background

Experimental evolution of microbial populations provides a unique opportunity to study evolutionary adaptation in response to controlled selective pressures. However, until recently it has been difficult to identify the precise genetic changes underlying adaptation at a genome-wide scale. New DNA sequencing technologies now allow the genome of parental and evolved strains of microorganisms to be rapidly determined.

Results

We sequenced >93.5% of the genome of a laboratory-evolved strain of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its ancestor at >28× depth. Both single nucleotide polymorphisms and copy number amplifications were found, with specific gains over array-based methodologies previously used to analyze these genomes. Applying a segmentation algorithm to quantify structural changes, we determined the approximate genomic boundaries of a 5× gene amplification. These boundaries guided the recovery of breakpoint sequences, which provide insights into the nature of a complex genomic rearrangement.

Conclusions

This study suggests that whole-genome sequencing can provide a rapid approach to uncover the genetic basis of evolutionary adaptations, with further applications in the study of laboratory selections and mutagenesis screens. In addition, we show how single-end, short read sequencing data can provide detailed information about structural rearrangements, and generate predictions about the genomic features and processes that underlie genome plasticity.
Escherichia coli genes that reduce the lethal effects of stress
Authors: Han Xiulin , Dorsey-Oresto Angella , Malik Muhammad , Wang Jian-Ying , Drlica Karl , Zhao Xilin , Lu Tao
Published: February 2010

Background

The continuing emergence of antimicrobial resistance requires the development of new compounds and/or enhancers of existing compounds. Genes that protect against the lethal effects of antibiotic stress are potential targets of enhancers. To distinguish such genes from those involved in drug uptake and efflux, a new susceptibility screen is required.

Results

Transposon (Tn5)-mediated mutagenesis was used to create a library of Escherichia coli mutants that was screened for hypersensitivity to the lethal action of quinolones and counter-screened to have wild-type bacteriostatic susceptibility. Mutants with this novel "hyperlethal" phenotype were found. The phenotype was transferable to other E. coli strains by P1-mediated transduction, and for a subset of the mutants the phenotype was complemented by the corresponding wild-type gene cloned into a plasmid. Thus, the inactivation of these genes was responsible for hyperlethality. Nucleotide sequence analysis identified 14 genes, mostly of unknown function, as potential factors protecting from lethal effects of stress. The 14 mutants were killed more readily than wild-type cells by mitomycin C and hydrogen peroxide; nine were also more readily killed by UV irradiation, and several exhibited increased susceptibility to killing by sodium dodecyl sulfate. No mutant was more readily killed by high temperature.

Conclusions

A new screening strategy identified a diverse set of E. coli genes involved in the response to lethal antimicrobial and environmental stress, with some genes being involved in the response to multiple stressors. The gene set, which differed from sets previously identified with bacteriostatic assays, provides an entry point for obtaining small-molecule enhancers that will affect multiple antimicrobial agents.
Effects of liquid stimuli on dual-axis swallowing accelerometry signals in a healthy population
Authors: Lee Joon , Sejdić Ervin , Steele Catriona M , Chau Tom
Published: February 2010

Background

Dual-axis swallowing accelerometry has recently been proposed as a tool for non-invasive analysis of swallowing function. Although swallowing is known to be physiologically modifiable by the type of food or liquid (i.e., stimuli), the effects of stimuli on dual-axis accelerometry signals have never been thoroughly investigated. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate stimulus effects on dual-axis accelerometry signal characteristics. Signals were acquired from 17 healthy participants while swallowing 4 different stimuli: water, nectar-thick and honey-thick apple juices, and a thin-liquid barium suspension. Two swallowing tasks were examined: discrete and sequential. A variety of features were extracted in the time and time-frequency domains after swallow segmentation and pre-processing. A separate Friedman test was conducted for each feature and for each swallowing task.

Results

Significant main stimulus effects were found on 6 out of 30 features for the discrete task and on 5 out of 30 features for the sequential task. Analysis of the features with significant stimulus effects suggested that the changes in the signals revealed slower and more pronounced swallowing patterns with increasing bolus viscosity.

Conclusions

We conclude that stimulus type does affect specific characteristics of dual-axis swallowing accelerometry signals, suggesting that associated clinical screening protocols may need to be stimulus specific.
Endoplasmic reticulum protein 29 (ERp29), a protein related to sperm maturation is involved in sperm-oocyte fusion in mouse
Authors: Ying Xiaoqian , Liu Yue , Guo Qiangsu , Qu Fei , Guo Wei , Zhu Yemin , Ding Zhide
Published: February 2010

Background

Sperm-oocyte fusion is a critical step in fertilization, which requires a series of proteins from both spermatozoa and oocyte to mediate membrane adhesion and subsequent fusion. A rat spermatozoa membrane protein is endoplasmic reticulum protein 29 (ERp29), which significantly increases on the sperm surface as well as in the cytoplasm of epididymal epithelia from caput to cauda as the sperm undergo epididymal maturation. Moreover, ERp29 facilitates viral infection via mediating membrane penetration. We determined if in addition to promoting sperm maturation ERp29 may also play a role in facilitating gamete fusion during the fertilization process.

Methods

Laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) and Western blot analysis were employed to probe for ERp29 protein in BALB/c mouse epididymal and acrosome-reacted spermatozoa. We prepared rabbit polyclonal antibodies against mouse recombinant ERp29 (rERp29) to characterize: 1) fertilization rate (FR); 2) fertilization index (FI); 3) sperm motility and 4) acrosome reaction (AR).

Results

Confocal microscopy indicated that ERp29 was partially localized at the sperm head of the epididymal caput as well as over the whole head and part of the principal piece of the tail region from the epididymal cauda. However, when the acrosome reacted, ERp29 remained in the equatorial and post-acrosomal regions of the sperm head, which is the initial site of sperm-oocyte membrane fusion. Such localization changes were confirmed based on the results of Western blot analysis. Furthermore, the antibodies against mouse rERp29 inhibited the spermatozoa from penetrating into the zona pellucida (ZP)-free oocytes. The functional blocking antibodies reduced both mouse sperm-oocyte FR and FI at concentrations of 100 and 200 micro g/ml compared with pre-immunized rabbit IgG or with anti-mouse recombinant bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI, a sperm surface protein unrelated to sperm-oocyte fusion) antibodies (100 micro g/ml), but they had no effect on sperm motility and AR.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that ERp29 on mouse spermatozoa membrane changes during epididymal transit and AR. Accordingly, in mice this protein may be one of the important factors involved in sperm fertilization by facilitating sperm-oocyte membrane fusion.
Hematopoietic stem cells and retroviral infection
Authors: Banerjee Prabal , Crawford Lindsey , Samuelson Elizabeth , Feuer Gerold
Published: February 2010

Retroviral induced malignancies serve as ideal models to help us better understand the molecular mechanisms associated with the initiation and progression of leukemogenesis. Numerous retroviruses including AEV, FLV, M-MuLV and HTLV-1 have the ability to infect hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, resulting in the deregulation of normal hematopoiesis and the development of leukemia/lymphoma. Research over the last few decades has elucidated similarities between retroviral-induced leukemogenesis, initiated by deregulation of innate hematopoietic stem cell traits, and the cancer stem cell hypothesis. Ongoing research in some of these models may provide a better understanding of the processes of normal hematopoiesis and cancer stem cells. Research on retroviral induced leukemias and lymphomas may identify the molecular events which trigger the initial cellular transformation and subsequent maintenance of hematologic malignancies, including the generation of cancer stem cells. This review focuses on the role of retroviral infection in hematopoietic stem cells and the initiation, maintenance and progression of hematological malignancies.
In vivo MRI assessment of permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion by electrocoagulation: pitfalls of procedure
Authors: Chauveau Fabien , Moucharrafie Samir , Wiart Marlène , Brisset Jean-Christophe , Berthezène Yves , Nighoghossian Norbert , Cho Tae-Hee
Published: February 2010

Permanent middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion (pMCAO) by electrocoagulation is a commonly used model but with potential traumatic lesions. Early MRI monitoring may assess pMCAO for non-specific brain damage. The surgical steps of pMCAO were evaluated for traumatic cerebral injury in 22 Swiss mice using diffusion and T2-weighted MRI (7T) performed within 1 h and 24 h after surgery. Temporal muscle cauterization without MCA occlusion produced an early T2 hyperintensity mimicking an infarct. No lesion was visible after temporal muscle incision or craniotomy. Early MRI monitoring is useful to identify non-specific brain injury that could hamper neuroprotective drugs assessment.
Toll-Like Receptor Ligands Cause Proinflammatory and Prodiabetic Activation of Adipocytes via Phosphorylation of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase and c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase But Not Interferon Regulatory Factor-3
Authors: Kopp Andrea , Buechler Christa , Bala Margarita , Neumeier Markus , Schölmerich Juergen , Schäffler Andreas
Published: February 2010

Here, we aim to investigate the mechanisms of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-induced prodiabetic and proinflammatory activation of adipocytes and to detect differences in the responsiveness of TLRs to their respective ligands between adipocytes isolated from inflamed vs. noninflamed adipose tissue. Experiments using specific ligands for all known TLRs were performed in murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes and in human adipocytes isolated from noninflamed and inflamed adipose tissue. IL-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) release were measured by ELISA. The expression of the signal transduction proteins phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (P-Erk), P-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and P-interferon regulatory factor-3 was investigated by Western blot analysis. Additionally, functional inhibitors of MAPK kinase-1/-2 and JNK-1/-2 were used in the stimulation experiments. Activation of TRL4 by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and TLR1/2 by Pam3Cys up-regulates IL-6 and MCP-1 release in adipocytes via specific activation of Erk. Stimulation of adipocytes by macrophage activating lipopeptide-2 (MALP-2) induces MCP-1 but has no effect on IL-6 release. This stimulatory effect on MCP-1 release is antagonized by inhibition of both mitogen-activated protein kinase-1/-2 and JNK-1/-2. Phosphorylation of Erk and JNK is up-regulated after stimulation by MALP-2. In human adipocytes isolated from noninflamed adipose tissue, LPS and Pam3Cys, but not MALP-2, are potent inducers of IL-6 and MCP-1. MALP-2 is able to induce IL-6 and MCP-1 release in adipocytes isolated from inflamed adipose tissue, whereas these adipocytes lost their ability to respond to LPS. The present results point to a role of the adipose tissue in innate immunity. TLR-ligand-induced proinflammatory and prodiabetic activation of adipocytes might couple visceral adipose tissue dysfunction with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Transfer of the tendon of tibialis anterior in relapsed congenital clubfoot
Authors: Lampasi M. , Bettuzzi C. , Palmonari M. , Donzelli O.
Published: February 2010

A total of 38 relapsed congenital clubfeet (16 stiff, 22 partially correctable) underwent revision of soft-tissue surgery, with or without a bony procedure, and transfer of the tendon of tibialis anterior at a mean age of 4.8 years (2.0 to 10.1). The tendon was transferred to the third cuneiform in five cases, to the base of the third metatarsal in ten and to the base of the fourth in 23. The patients were reviewed at a mean follow-up of 24.8 years (10.8 to 35.6). A total of 11 feet were regarded as failures (one a tendon failure, five with a subtalar fusion due to over-correction, and five with a triple arthrodesis due to under-correction or relapse).

In the remaining feet the clinical outcome was excellent or good in 20 and fair or poor in seven. The mean Laaveg-Ponseti score was 81.6 of 100 points (52 to 92). Stiffness was mild in four feet and moderate or severe in 23.

Comparison between the post-operative and follow-up radiographs showed statistically significant variations of the talo-first metatarsal angle towards abduction. Variations of the talocalcaneal angles and of the overlap ratio were not significant.

Extensive surgery for relapsed clubfoot has a high rate of poor long-term results. The addition of transfer of the tendon of tibialis anterior can restore balance and may provide some improvement of forefoot adduction. However, it has a considerable complication rate, including failure of transfer, over-correction, and weakening of dorsiflexion. The procedure should be reserved for those limited cases in which muscle imbalance is a causative or contributing factor.
Migration of the humeral component of the Souter-Strathclyde elbow prosthesis
Authors: van der Lugt J. C. T. , Valstar E. R. , Witvoet-Braam S. W. , Nelissen R. G. H. H.
Published: February 2010

Mechanical loosening which begins with early-onset migration of the prosthesis is the major reason for failure of the Souter-Strathclyde elbow replacement. In a prospective study of 18 Souter-Strathclyde replacements we evaluated the patterns of migration using roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis. We had previously reported the short-term results after a follow-up of two years which we have now extended to a mean follow-up of 8.2 years (1 to 11.3). Migration was assessed along the co-ordinal axes and overall micromovement was expressed as the maximum total point movement. The alignment of the prosthesis and the presence of radiolucent lines were examined on conventional standardised radiographs.

All the humeral components showed increased and variable patterns of migration at the extended follow-up and four humeral components were revised. The maximum total point movement at two years in the revised prostheses was 1.8 mm (sd 1.0) and in the non-revised 0.7 mm (sd 0.5, p = 0.01). Most humeral components migrated into external rotation resulting in an anterior and varus tilt. The ulnar components remained stable.
Elastofibroma dorsi: management, outcome and review of the literature
Authors: Parratt M. T. R. , Donaldson J. R. , Flanagan A. M. , Saifuddin A. , Pollock R. C. , Skinner J. A. , Cannon S. R. , Briggs T. W. R.
Published: February 2010

Elastofibroma dorsi is an uncommon, benign, slow-growing soft-tissue tumour of uncertain aetiology. It classically presents as an ill-defined mass at the inferior pole of the scapula with symptoms which include swelling, discomfort, snapping, stiffness and occasionally pain.

We report the symptoms, function and outcome after treatment of 21 elastofibromas in 15 patients. All were diagnosed by MRI and early in the series four also underwent CT-guided biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. In all, 18 tumours were excised and three were observed. After excision, the mean visual analogue score for pain decreased from 4.6 (0 to 10) pre-operatively to 2.4 (0 to 8) post-operatively (p = 0.04). The mean shoulder function, at a mean follow-up of 4.2 years (3 months to 16 years), was 78.1% (30 to 100) using the Stanmore percentage of normal shoulder assessment scoring system. The mean range of forward flexion improved from 135° (70° to 180°) to 166° (100° to 180°) after excision (p = 0.005). In four patients a post-operative haematoma formed; one required evacuation. Three patients developed a post-operative seroma requiring needle aspiration and one developed a superficial infection which was treated with antibiotics.

Our findings support previous reports suggesting that a pre-operative tissue diagnosis is not necessary in most cases since the lesion can be confidently diagnosed by MRI, when interpreted in the light of appropriate clinical findings. Surgical excision in symptomatic patients, is helpful.

It has been suggested that elastofibroma is caused by a local tissue reaction and is not a true neoplastic process. A strong association has been noted between elastofibroma and repetitive use of the shoulder, which is supported by our findings.
Age-specific incidence of first and second fractures of the hip
Authors: Lawrence T. M. , Wenn R. , Boulton C. T. , Moran C. G.
Published: February 2010

We determined the age-specific incidence of a second fracture of the hip and compared it with that of a primary fracture in a study population drawn from 6331 patients admitted to Nottingham University Hospital with a primary fracture of the hip over a period of 8.5 years. The incidence of a second fracture was determined using survival analysis. The mean age-specific incidence rates of primary hip fracture were calculated using census data.

The overall incidence of a second fracture was 2.7% at one year and 7.8% at 8.5 years. That of a primary fracture was 50 per 100 000 in women aged 55 to 64 years rising to 3760 in those aged 84 years and over. The incidence of a second fracture in women aged 55 to 64 years was 2344 per 100 000. Patients of this age had a relative risk of 45 (95% confidence interval 13 to 155) for further fracture when compared with the population at risk of a first fracture. The incidence of a second fracture in women aged > 84 years was 2451 per 100 000 (relative risk 0.7, 95% confidence interval 0.5 to 0.9). A similar trend was seen in men.

Patients sustaining a primary fracture of the hip between the ages of 55 and 64 years have a much greater risk of further fracture than the normal population, whereas those over 84 years have a similar risk. These findings have important implications for the provision of fracture prevention services in primary and secondary care.
Qualidade textural de tomates cultivados em substratos orgânicos submetidos à aplicação de substâncias húmicas
Authors: Pires Caroline Roberta Freitas , Lima Luiz Carlos de Oliveira , Vilas Boas Eduardo Valério de Barros , Alves Rosiana Rodrigues
Published: February 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos de substâncias húmicas e de diferentes substratos orgânicos na qualidade textural dos frutos do tomateiro híbrido Vênus, em ambiente protegido. Utilizaram-se, quatro tipos de substratos: fibra de coco; fibra de coco e casca de café carbonizada 1/3 (v/v); fibra de coco e casca de café carbonizada 2/3 (v/v); e casca de café carbonizada. As doses de substâncias húmicas (ácido húmico, 10% + ácido fúlvico 10,2%) utilizadas foram 0, 20, 40 e 80 L ha-1, aplicadas ao substrato quinzenalmente, a partir do oitavo dia após o transplantio. O delineamento utilizado foi o de blocos ao acaso, em arranjo fatorial 4x4. Avaliaram-se firmeza dos frutos, percentagem de solubilização péctica e atividade enzimática (pectinametilesterase e poligalacturonase). Observou-se variação na atividade das enzimas pectinametilesterase e poligalacturonase, em consequência das doses de substâncias húmicas adicionadas, nos diferentes substratos. O efeito das doses de substâncias húmicas sobre a firmeza, solubilidade de pectinas e atividade enzimática, em frutos de tomate, depende do substrato utilizado. Frutos obtidos de plantas cultivadas em fibra de coco apresentaram aumento de firmeza e redução da percentagem de solubilização péctica com a aplicação de doses crescentes de substâncias húmicas.
Expressão dos genes nodC, nodW e nopP em Bradyrhizobium japonicum estirpe CPAC 15 avaliada por RT-qPCR
Authors: Bortolan Simone , Barcellos Fernando Gomes , Marcelino Francismar Corrêa , Hungria Mariangela
Published: February 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a expressão, por RT-qPCR, dos genes de nodulação nodC e nodW e do gene nopP da estirpe CPAC 15, que provavelmente atuam na infecção das raízes da soja. Foram realizados dois experimentos. No primeiro, a expressão dos genes foi avaliada nas células após a incubação com genisteína por 15 min, 1, 4 e 8 horas. Os resultados revelaram que os três genes apresentaram maior expressão imediatamente após o contato com o indutor (15 min). No segundo experimento, a bactéria foi cultivada na presença de indutores (genisteína ou exsudatos de sementes de soja) por 48 horas. A expressão dos três genes foi maior na presença de genisteína, com valores de expressão para nodC, nodW e nopP superiores ao controle. Os resultados obtidos confirmam a funcionalidade dos três genes na estirpe CPAC 15, com ênfase para o nopP, cuja funcionalidade em Bradyrhizobium japonicum foi descrita pela primeira vez.
Variabilidade espacial da infiltração de água em solo sob pastagem em função da intensidade de pisoteio
Authors: Miguel Fernanda Ribeiro Marques , Vieira Sidney Rosa , Grego Célia Regina
Published: February 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da intensidade de pisoteio do gado na variabilidade espacial da infiltração de água no solo. O experimento foi conduzido em um Argissolo Vermelho-Amarelo, com pastagem de Urochloa brizantha dividida em seis piquetes de 1 ha, cada um com 50 pontos de amostragem, em grade de 10x10 m. Em cada local de amostragem, foi medida a taxa de infiltração tridimensional de água em solo saturado, nas profundidades de 0,10 e 0,20 m. As medições foram realizadas na primeira, décima primeira e décima quinta passagens do gado pelos piquetes. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise geoestatística, para avaliação da variabilidade espacial das propriedades do solo. As 15 passagens do gado pelos piquetes resultaram em diminuição da taxa de infiltração de água no solo de 73,3% a 0,10 m e de 64,6% a 0,20 m de profundidade. O estudo da variabilidade espacial da taxa de infiltração de água no solo, por meio da geoestatística, possibilita a construção de mapas para a avaliação dos efeitos da intensificação do pisoteio do gado sobre as propriedades físicas do solo. A taxa de infiltração de água no solo apresenta estrutura de dependência espacial que aumenta em função da intensidade do pisoteio do gado.
Ácido giberélico no raleio de cachos de uva da cv. superior seedless, enxertada sobre o porta-enxerto 'SO4', cultivada na região do Vale do Submédio São Francisco
Authors: Gonzaga Hélio Maurício Viana , Ribeiro Valtemir Gonçalves
Published: February 2010

Com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito de concentrações de ácido giberélico no raleio e melhoria da qualidade de cachos de uva da cv. Superior Seedless, foi realizado este experimento em pomar comercial na Fazenda Copa Fruit S.A., município de Petrolina-PE. o delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, com sete tratamentos (GA3: 0,0; 0,5; 1,0; 2,0; 4,0; 6,0 e 8,0 mg.L-1), quatro repetições e duas plantas por parcela, e os dados foram interpretados por meio de análise de variância e regressão. As aplicações dos tratamentos foram realizadas em três fases, a primeira antes da antese e a segunda e terceira com aproximadamente25% e 80% de flores abertas, respectivamente, utilizando-se de um volume de calda de 2.000 litros/ha. Os cachos foram colhidos com 60 dias após a poda, e as características avaliadas foram: comprimento médio de cacho, engaço e "ombros"; densidade de bagas; massa da matéria fresca do cacho e bagas; e diâmetro e comprimento de bagas. os melhores resultados para o raleio foram obtidos com a concentração de 0,5 mg.L-1, que proporcionou uma densidade de 5,39 bagas/cm de cacho, contra 8,24 bagas/cm de cacho obtido pela testemunha. Em relação à melhoria da qualidade de cachos e bagas, aplicações de GA3 acima de 2,0 mg.L-1, apesar de mostrarem eficiência no aumento do comprimento de cachos, tiveram efeitos negativos na massa da matéria fresca de cachos e bagas, inviabilizando os cachos comercialmente.
Envelhecimento acelerado em diásporos de Oenocarpus bacaba (Arecaceae)
Authors: Silva Breno Marques da Silva e , Sader Rubens , Moro Fabiola Vitti , Oliveira Camila de , Silveira César Martoreli da
Published: February 2010

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi adequar o teste de envelhecimento acelerado para avaliar a qualidade fisiológica de diásporos de Oenocarpus bacaba Mart. (bacaba). Inicialmente, os diásporos foram expostos às temperaturas de 41; 43 e 45 ºC, durante 3; 6; 12; 24; 36; 48 e 72 h, com cerca de 100% de umidade relativa do ar. Foram considerados dois critérios de germinação: emissão da primeira bainha igual ou superior a 1cm e plântula normal. o teste de germinação foi realizado com 6 repetições de 20 diásporos, em temperatura de 30 ºC e fotoperíodo de 12 h. Pelos resultados preliminares, observou-se que os lotes de diásporos de bacaba podem ser separados em níveis de vigor por meio do envelhecimento acelerado, em 43ºC e com cerca de 100% de umidade relativa do ar, por 48 h. os quatro lotes de diásporos foram então submetidos, num segundo experimento, a 43 ºC por 24; 48 e 72 h, sendo adotada como critério de germinação a emissão de primeira bainha. Em 45 ºC, a porcentagem de germinação foi drasticamente reduzida após 12 h. Não houve diferenças significativas entre os critérios de germinação utilizados. Os lotes de diásporos foram separados em diferentes níveis de vigor após 48 e 72 h de exposição a 43 ºC. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, sugere-se o uso de primeira bainha como critério de germinação e período de envelhecimento de 48 h a 43 ºC, para a avaliação da qualidade fisiológica de diásporos de bacaba.
Preservação da qualidade pós-colheita de araçá-vermelho através do tratamento com 1-metilciclopropeno e do acondicionamento em embalagens plásticas, sob refrigeração
Authors: Amarante Cassandro Vidal Talamini do , Steffens Cristiano André , Espíndola Bruno Pansera
Published: February 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar o padrão respiratório e de produção de etileno, e os efeitos do tratamento com diferentes doses de 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP) e do acondicionamento em diferentes embalagens plásticas, associado à refrigeração, na preservação da qualidade pós-colheita de araçá-vermelho. Os frutos apresentaram comportamento climatérico de respiração e produção de etileno. Frutos tratados com doses crescentes de 1-MCP (0; 100; 300; 600 e 1.200 nL L-1) e armazenados a 10±1C/90±5% UR, durante 10 dias, apresentaram retardo substancial no amadurecimento, através da preservação da textura e inibição na mudança de cor da epiderme. Frutos acondicionados com diferentes filmes (polietileno de baixa densidade, policloreto de vinila e à base de náilon) apresentaram, em termos gerais, melhor preservação da textura e menores mudanças na cor da epiderme e perdas de massa fresca, durante armazenamento refrigerado (5C e 10C). Os resultados demonstram que os frutos de araçá-vermelho apresentam elevada perecibilidade, caracterizada pelas elevadas taxas respiratórias e de produção de etileno, sendo mais bem preservados quando refrigerados, e tratados com 1-MCP ou acondicionados em embalagens plásticas.
Evolução da vassoura-de-bruxa e avaliação da resistência em progênies de cupuaçuzeiro
Authors: Alves Rafael Moysés , Resende Marcos Deon Vilela de , Bandeira Bruna dos Santos , Pinheiro Thiago Martins , Farias Daniella Cristina Raiol
Published: February 2010

Com o objetivo de conhecer a evolução da doença vassoura-de-bruxa, a taxa de segregação e estimar parâmetros genéticos, foi conduzido um experimento com 21 progênies de irmãos completos de cupuaçuzeiro, instalado em Belém, Pará. As progênies foram obtidas pelo cruzamento controlado de clones resistentes com clones resistentes, clones resistentes com clones suscetíveis e, clones suscetíveis com clones suscetíveis. Foram avaliadas também três progênies de meios-irmãos como testemunhas. Os experimentos foram avaliados ao nível de indivíduos, e as análises foram conduzidas via metodologia de modelos lineares mistos (procedimento REMl/BlUP), como delineamento em blocos incompletos desbalanceados, com tratamentos comuns entre dois experimentos. As variáveis avaliadas foram: percentagem de plantas resistentes ao ataque da doença no ramo, inflorescência, fruto imaturo e maduro, no período de 2002 a 2007. Os resultados mostraram que a emissão de vassoura vegetativa é especialmente importante entre julho e setembro. A evolução da doença evidencia que as podas fitossanitárias devem ser realizadas no final da safra, nos meses de maio/junho, e repassadas em setembro/outubro. A população estudada oferece excelente possibilidade de seleção e ganho genético, respaldada pelos elevados índices de variabilidade genética e herdabilidade dos caracteres de resistência. As progênies segregaram tanto para os sintomas de vassoura nos ramos, nas inflorescências, como nos frutos imaturos e maduros. Para o controle integrado desta doença, os resultados mostram a importância da associação de materiais genéticos resistentes ou moderadamente resistentes à vassoura-de-bruxa com as podas fitossanitárias.
Características físico-químicas de physalis em diferentes colorações do cálice e sistemas de condução
Authors: Lima Cláudia Simone Madruga , Severo Joseana , Manica-Berto Roberta , Silva Jorge Adolfo , Rufato Leo , Rufato Andrea de Rossi
Published: February 2010

Uma espécie que está sendo incorporada no cultivo de pequenas frutas é a physalis. Esta Solanaceae é considerada uma planta rústica que tem dificuldade de manter suas hastes eretas, seus frutos estão dentro de um cálice que os protege contra insetos, pássaros e condições adversas. o objetivo neste trabalho foi avaliar as características físico-químicas dos frutos de Physalis peruviana em função das diferentes colorações de cálice e dos sistemas de condução utilizados. A colheita dos frutos foi realizada levando em consideração cinco diferentes classificações quanto à coloração de cálice: 1 (verde); 2 (verde-amarelada); 3 (amarelo-esverdeada); 4 (amarela), e 5 (amarelo-amarronzada), provenientes dos sistemas de condução "v" invertido e triangular. o delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, com esquema fatorial 5x2 (colorações do cálice x sistemas de condução). A unidade experimental foi composta de dez frutos, sendo cada tratamento repetido três vezes. os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância (ANOVA), aplicando o teste de Tukey, ao nível de 5% de probabilidade de erro, para comparação das médias. As variáveis avaliadas foram: massa fresca do fruto, do cálice e total, diâmetro, firmeza, coloração da epiderme, sólidos solúveis totais (SST), acidez total titulável (ATT), razão SST/ATT e pH. o sistema de condução triangular, combinado às colorações de fruto amarela e amarelo-amarronzada resultou, respectivamente, em frutos com maior conteúdo de SST e razão SST/ATT. os maiores valores para massa e diâmetro de fruto foram alcançados quando os cálices se apresentavam amarelo-amarronzados, enquanto a maior massa total foi atingida quando os cálices tinham coloração amarela. Já para a massa do cálice, as maiores respostas foram obtidas nos de coloração verde. Conclui-se que physalis colhidos a partir da terceira fase (3) (cálice amarelo-esverdeado) apresentam o melhor conjunto de características físico-químicas, em ambos os sistemas de condução avaliados.
Variação de caracteres em híbridos de abacaxizeiro obtidos de diferentes cruzamentos
Authors: Cabral José Renato Santos , Ledo Carlos Alberto da Silva , Caldas Ranulfo Corrêa , Junghans Davi Theodoro
Published: February 2010

A herança dos caracteres utilizados na seleção de híbridos de abacaxi é de suma importância para o sucesso dos programas de melhoramento genético desta fruteira. o trabalho teve como objetivo analisar as variações observadas nos principais caracteres utilizados na seleção de híbridos de abacaxi obtidos de diferentes cruzamentos. Foi realizada a análise de variância dos caracteres: altura da planta do solo até à base do fruto, comprimento do pedúnculo, peso do fruto sem coroa, peso da coroa, teor de sólidos solúveis e acidez titulável de 446 genótipos avaliados e 213 selecionados. observou-se uma diminuição do peso do fruto nos híbridos selecionados na maioria dos cruzamentos e aumento dos sólidos solúveis em todos os cruzamentos, quando comparados com todos os genótipos avaliados. Constatou-se correlação linear simples positiva significativa entre o peso do fruto e a altura da planta. Foi observada também correlação linear simples significativa, de baixa magnitude, positiva entre o peso do fruto e o peso da coroa, a altura da planta e o peso da coroa, a altura da planta e o teor de sólidos solúveis e negativa entre o teor de sólidos solúveis e ocomprimento do pedúnculo. Verificou-se diferença entre os cruzamentos na seleção de genótipos de abacaxi para os caracteres estudados.
Perfil e preferências do consumidor de pêssego (Prunus persica) em diferentes regiões produtoras no Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Trevisan Renato , Piana Clause Fátima de Brum , Treptow Rosa de Oliveira , Gonçalves Emerson Dias , Antunes Luis Eduardo Corrêa
Published: February 2010

Entender a qualidade percebida pelo consumidor é fundamental para aquele que deseja não apenas produzir frutas, mas também comercializá-las. Além disso, conhecer o consumidor e seus hábitos contribui no adequado planejamento de ações nos diversos segmentos da cadeia produtiva. Procurou-se verificar o perfil e a preferência dos consumidores de pêssego in natura, em três cidades do Rio Grande do Sul. A partir das respostas ao questionário aplicado, traçou-se seu perfil quanto as suas exigências relativas ao hábito de compra e da qualidade da fruta. Utilizou-se a estatística de Qui-quadrado para verificar a ocorrência de independência entre as variáveis obtidas por meio das respostas dos consumidores em uma amostra de 430 entrevistados entre as três cidades. Constatou-se que o perfil e a preferência dos consumidores de pêssego são distintos nas três cidades pesquisadas quanto ao local de compra e a preferência pela cor da polpa, porém a coloração amarelo-avermelhada da epiderme, o consumo semanal e o sabor são atributos semelhantes para os consumidores nas três cidades.
Intoxicações por plantas em ruminantes e equídeos no Sertão Paraibano
Authors: Assis Tales S. , Medeiros Rosane M.T. , Araújo José Allan S. de , Dantas Antônio F.M. , Riet-Correa Franklin
Published: February 2010

Foi realizado um levantamento das intoxicações por plantas em 20 municípios do Sertão Paraibano, onde foram entrevistados 50 produtores e 11 médicos veterinários. De acordo com o levantamento realizado, Ipomoea asarifolia e Mascagnia rigida são as intoxicações mais importantes. Indigofera suffruticosa, as plantas cianogênicas (Sorghum vulgare, Piptadenia macrocarpa e Manihot spp.), Mimosa tenuiflora, Aspidosperma pyrifolium e Crotalaria retusa são plantas importantes como causa de intoxicações na região. Os entrevistados relataram casos esporádicos de intoxicação por Ricinus communis, Enterolobium contortisiliquum, Prosopis juliflorae Brachiaria decumbens. Ziziphus joazeiro, Passiflora sp., Caesalpina ferrea e Crescentia cujete foram mencionadas como causa de abortos em ruminantes. Frutos de Crescentia cujete foram administrados a duas cabras prenhes causando mortalidade perinatal e abortos. As cascas de feijão (Phaseolus vulgaris e Vigna unguiculata) e as folhas de Licania rigida (oiticica) são associadas à sobrecarga ruminal em bovinos. As frutas de Mangifera indica (manga)e Anacardium occidentale (cajú) são responsabilizadas por causarem intoxicação etílica. Dalechampia sp. e Croton sp. foram citadas pelos entrevistados como possíveis plantas tóxicas, que ainda não tiveram sua toxicidade comprovada.
Occurrence of parasitism by Dioctophyma renale in ring-tailed coatis (Nasua nasua) of the Tiete Ecological Park, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Milanelo Liliane , Moreira Márcia Bento , Fitorra Lílian S. , Petri Bruno S.S. , Alves Melissa , Santos Aparecida de Cássia dos
Published: February 2010

Dioctophymosis is a worldwide renal parasitosis caused by the Dioctophyma renale nematode, which results in progressive destruction of renal tissue. Aquatics annelids are considered the main intermediate hosts and the literature refers as permanent hosts of dogs, wild mammals and even humans. During procedures for population control of coatis (Nasua nasua) in the Ecological Park of Tietê (PET), was noticed the presence of parasitosis by D. renale. From 68 animals, males and females, young and adults, submitted to exploratory laparotomy, 51 were positive for the presence of worms, 9 were found only in the right kidney. In 10 cases, in addition to right kidney parasitism, worms were also observed in the abdominal cavity. In 24 cases D. renale was found only in the abdominal cavity and in 8 animals the right kidney was reduced to a small rigid structure. The study showed that the preferred site for parasitism of the worm, considered erratic, was the abdominal cavity in 66.66% of the cases.