bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructure and immunohistochemical characterization of proteins concerned with the secretory machinery in goat ceruminous glands
Authors: Yasui Tadashi , Gomi Hiroshi , Kitahara Taishi , Tsukise Azuma
Published: August 2017

The expression of soluble N-ethyl-maleimide sensitive fusion attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins in apocrine glands has not been fully elucidated. In addition to performing ultrastructural observation of the ceruminous glands in goats, our study focuses on the demonstration of β-defensins, SNARE proteins and Rab3D in these glands with the use of immunohistochemical methods. The secretory cells were equipped with two types of vesicles, Golgi apparatus and abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Additionally, in some of them, the characteristic concentric structures composed of rough ER were observed in their circum- and infranuclear parts. The expression of phosphorylated inositol requiring enzyme 1a was also detected. These findings may indicate their ability to produce numerous secretory proteins and the maintenance of homeostasis in the glandular cells. Furthermore, β-defensins were demonstrated as products of the ceruminous glands. The present investigation also revealed the presence of SNARE proteins and Rab3D. It is suggested that these proteins are concerned with the secretory machinery of this gland type.
“Is There An App For That?” Orthopaedic Patient Preferences For A Smartphone Application
Authors: Dattilo Jonathan R. , Gittings Daniel J. , Sloan Matthew , Hardaker William M. , Deasey Matthew J. , Sheth Neil P.
Published: August 2017

Background: Patients are seeking out medical information on the Internet and utilizing smartphone health applications (“apps”). Smartphone use has exponentially increased among orthopaedic surgeons and patients. Despite this increase, patients are rarely directed to specific apps by physicians. No study exists querying patient preferences for a patient-centered, orthopaedic smartphone application.

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to 1) determine Internet use patterns amongst orthopaedic patients; 2) ascertain access to and use of smartphones; and 3) elucidate what features orthopaedic patients find most important in a smartphone application.

Methods: We surveyed patients in an orthopaedic practice in an urban academic center to assess demographics, access to and patterns of Internet and Smartphone use, and preferences for features in a smartphone app.

Results: A total of 310 surveys were completed. Eighty percent of patients reported Internet access, and 62% used the Internet for health information. Seventy-seven percent owned smartphones, 45% used them for health information, and 28% owned health apps. Only 11% were referred to an app by a physician. The highest ranked features were appointment reminders, ability to view test results, communication with physicians, and discharge instructions. General orthopaedic information and pictures or videos explaining surgery were the 2 lowest ranked features. Seventy-one percent of patients felt an app with some of the described features would improve their healthcare experiences, and 40% would pay for the app.

Conclusions: The smartphone is an under-utilized tool to enhance patient-physician communication, increase satisfaction, and improve quality of care. Patients were enthusiastic about app features that are often included in patient health portals, but ranked orthopaedic educational features lowest. Further study is required to elucidate how best to use orthopaedic apps as physician-directed educational opportunities to promote patient satisfaction and quality of care.

Citation: Dattilo JR, Gittings DJ, Sloan M, Hardaker WM, Deasey MJ, Sheth NP. “Is There An App For That?“ Orthopaedic Patient Preferences For A Smartphone Application. Appl Clin Inform 2017; 8: 832–844 https://doi.org/10.4338/ACI-2017-04-RA-0058
The Emerging Role of the Chief Research Informatics Officer in Academic Health Centers
Authors: Mosa Abu S. M. , Fultz-Hollis Kate , Tachinardi Umberto , Barnett William K. , Embi Peter J. , Sanchez-Pinto L. Nelson
Published: August 2017

Background: The role of the Chief Research Informatics Officer (CRIO) is emerging in academic health centers to address the challenges clinical researchers face in the increasingly digitalized, data-intensive healthcare system. Most current CRIOs are the first officers in their institutions to hold that role. To date there is very little published information about this role and the individuals who serve it.

Objective: To increase our understanding of the CRIO role, the leaders who serve it, and the factors associated with their success in their organizations.

Methods: The Clinical Research Informatics Working Group of the American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) conducted a national survey of CRIOs in the United States and convened an expert panel of CRIOs to discuss their experience during the 2016 AMIA Annual Symposium.

Results: CRIOs come from diverse academic backgrounds. Most have advance training and extensive experience in biomedical informatics but the majority have been CRIOs for less than three years. CRIOs identify funding, data governance, and advancing data analytics as their major challenges.

Conclusion: CRIOs play an important role in helping shape the future of clinical research, innovation, and data analytics in healthcare in their organizations. They share many of the same challenges and see the same opportunities for the future of the field. Better understanding the background and experience of current CRIOs can help define and develop the role in other organizations and enhance their influence in the field of research informatics.

Citation: Sanchez-Pinto LN, Mosa ASM, Fultz-Hollis K, Tachinardi U, Barnett WK, Embi PJ. The Emerging Role of the Chief Research Informatics Officer in Academic Health Centers. Appl Clin Inform 2017; 8: 845–853 https://doi.org/10.4338/ACI-2017-04-RA-0062
Experiments based on blue intensity for reconstructing North Pacific temperatures along the Gulf of Alaska
Authors: Wilson Rob , D'Arrigo Rosanne , Andreu-Hayles Laia , Oelkers Rose , Wiles Greg , Anchukaitis Kevin , Davi Nicole
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Ring-width (RW) records from the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) have yielded a valuable long-term perspective for North Pacific changes on decadal to longer timescales in prior studies but contain a broad winter to late summer seasonal climate response. Similar to the highly climate-sensitive maximum latewood density (MXD) proxy, the blue intensity (BI) parameter has recently been shown to correlate well with year-to-year warm-season temperatures for a number of sites at northern latitudes. Since BI records are much less labour intensive and expensive to generate than MXD, such data hold great potential value for future tree-ring studies in the GOA and other regions in mid- to high latitudes. Here we explore the potential for improving tree-ring-based reconstructions using combinations of RW- and BI-related parameters (latewood BI and delta BI) from an experimental subset of samples at eight mountain hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana) sites along the GOA. This is the first study for the hemlock genus using BI data. We find that using either inverted latewood BI (LWBinv) or delta BI (DB) can improve the amount of explained temperature variance by > 10 % compared to RW alone, although the optimal target season shrinks to June–September, which may have implications for studying ocean–atmosphere variability in the region. One challenge in building these BI records is that resin extraction did not remove colour differences between the heartwood and sapwood; thus, long term trend biases, expressed as relatively warm temperatures in the 18th century, were noted when using the LWBinv data. Using DB appeared to overcome these trend biases, resulting in a reconstruction expressing 18th–19th century temperatures ca. 0.5 °C cooler than the 20th–21st centuries. This cool period agrees well with previous dendroclimatic studies and the glacial advance record in the region. Continuing BI measurement in the GOA region must focus on sampling and measuring more trees per site (> 20) and compiling more sites to overcome site-specific factors affecting climate response and using subfossil material to extend the record. Although LWBinv captures the inter-annual climate signal more strongly than DB, DB appears to better capture long-term secular trends that agree with other proxy archives in the region. Great care is needed, however, when implementing different detrending options and more experimentation is necessary to assess the utility of DB for different conifer species around the Northern Hemisphere.
Where is Late Cenozoic climate change most likely to impact denudation?
Authors: Mutz Sebastian G. , Ehlers Todd A. , Werner Martin , Lohmann Gerrit , Stepanek Christian , Li Jingmin
Published: August 2017

Abstract. The denudation history of active orogens is often interpreted in the context of modern climate and vegetation gradients. Here we address the validity of this approach and ask the question: what are the spatial and temporal variations in paleo-climate for a latitudinally diverse range of active orogens? We do this using high-resolution (T159, ca. 80 × 80 km at the equator) paleo-climate simulations from the ECHAM5 global Atmospheric General Circulation Model and a statistical cluster analysis of climate over different orogens (Andes, Himalaya, SE Alaska, Pacific NW USA). Time periods and boundary conditions considered include the Pliocene (PLIO, ~ 3 Ma), the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM, ~ 21 ka), Mid Holocene (MH, ~ 6 ka) and Pre-Industrial (PI, reference year 1850). The regional simulated climates of each orogen are described by means of cluster analyses based on the variability of precipitation, 2 m air temperature, the intra-annual amplitude of these values, and monsoonal wind speeds where appropriate. Results indicate the largest differences to the PI climate are observed for the LGM and PLIO climates in the form of widespread cooling and reduced precipitation in the LGM and warming and enhanced precipitation during the PLIO. The LGM climate shows the largest deviation in annual precipitation from the PI climate, and shows enhanced precipitation in the temperate Andes, and coastal regions for both SE Alaska and the US Pacific Northwest Pacific. Furthermore, LGM precipitation is reduced in the western Himalayas and enhanced in the eastern Himalayas, resulting in a shift of the wettest regional climates eastward along the orogen. The cluster-analysis results also suggest more climatic variability across latitudes east of the Andes in the PLIO climate than in other time-slice experiments conducted here. Taken together, these results highlight significant changes in Late Cenozoic regional climatology over the last ~ 3 Ma. Finally, we document regions where the largest magnitudes of Late Cenozoic changes in precipitation and temperature occur and offer the highest potential for future observational studies interested in quantifying the impact of climate change on denudation and weathering rates.
Human influences on streamflow drought characteristics in England and Wales
Authors: Tijdeman Erik , Hannaford Jamie , Stahl Kerstin
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Human influences can affect streamflow drought characteristics and propagation. The question is where, when and why? To answer these questions, the impact of different human influences on streamflow droughts were assessed in England and Wales, across a broad range of climate and catchments conditions. We used a dataset consisting of catchments with near-natural flow as well as catchments for which different human influences have been indicated in the metadata ("Factors Affecting Runoff") of the UK National River Flow Archive (NRFA). A screening approach was applied on the streamflow records to identify human influenced records with drought characteristics that deviated from those found for catchments with near-natural flow. Three different deviations were considered, specifically deviations in: 1) the relationship between streamflow drought duration and the Base Flow Index; 2) the correlation between streamflow and precipitation and 3) the temporal occurrence of streamflow droughts compared to precipitation droughts, i.e., an increase or decrease in streamflow drought months relative to precipitation drought months over the period of record. The identified deviations were then related to the indicated human influences. Results showed that the majority of catchments for which human influences were indicated did not show streamflow drought characteristics that deviated from those expected under near-natural conditions. For the catchments that did show deviating streamflow drought characteristics, prolonged streamflow drought durations were found in some of the catchments affected by groundwater abstractions. Weaker correlations between streamflow and precipitation were found for some of the catchments with reservoirs, water transfers or groundwater augmentation schemes. An increase in streamflow drought occurrence towards the end of record was found for some of the catchments affected by groundwater abstractions and a decrease in streamflow drought occurrence for some of the catchments with either reservoirs or groundwater abstractions. In conclusion, the proposed screening approaches were successful in identifying streamflow records with deviating drought characteristics that are likely related to different human influences. However, a quantitative attribution of the impact of human influences on streamflow drought characteristics requires more detailed case by case information about the type and degree of all different human influences. Given that, in many countries, such information is often not readily accessible, the approach adopted here could provide useful in targeting future efforts. In England and Wales specifically, the catchments with deviating streamflow drought characteristics identified in this study could serve as the starting point of detailed case study research.
Technical note: Transit time distributions are not L-shaped
Authors: Bardsley Earl
Published: August 2017

Abstract. A probability density function f(t) with origin at t = 0 is defined here as being "L-shaped" if f'(t) ≤ 0 for t ≥ 0. L-shaped probability density functions, especially exponential distributions, are often assumed as transit time distributions in hydrological studies. However, L-shaped transit time distributions are not possible. This is because the transit time of a particle must always be with reference to a store, the transit time being some finite duration of time between particle entry and exit. Tracer particles cannot transit through any part of a store in zero time so transit time distributions have the property f(0) = 0, which is incompatible with L-shaped probability density functions. This is a fundamental constraint on the form of transit time distributions, which must possess at least one mode at t > 0. Some L-shaped probability density functions may well approximate actual transit time distributions, but they are of different form to the true distributions. A call is therefore made for L-shaped probability density functions to be no longer employed in transit time modelling.
A Study of the Variability of the Benguela Current
Authors: Majumder Sudip , Schmid Claudia
Published: August 2017

Abstract. The Benguela Current forms the eastern limb of the subtropical gyre in the South Atlantic and transports a blend of relatively fresh and cool Atlantic water as well as relatively warm and salty Indian Ocean water northward. Therefore, it plays an important role not only for the local freshwater and heat budgets but for the overall meridional heat and freshwater transports in the South Atlantic. Historically, the Benguela Current region is relatively data sparse, especially with respect to long-term observations. A new three dimensional data set of the horizontal velocity in the upper 2000 m that covers the years 1993 to 2015 is used to analyze the variability of the Benguela Current. This data set was derived using observations from Argo floats, satellite sea surface height and wind fields. The main features of the horizontal circulation observed in this data set are in good agreement with those from earlier observations based on more limited data sets. Therefore, it can be used for a more detailed study the flow pattern as well as the variability of the circulation in this region. It is found that the mean meridional transport in the upper 800 m between the continental shelf of Africa and 3° E, decreases from 23 ± 3 Sv at 31° S to 11 ± 3 Sv at 28° S. In terms of variability, the 23-year long timeseries at 30° S and 35° S reveal phases with large energy densities at periods of 3 to 7 months, which can be attributed to the occurrence of Agulhas rings in this region. The prevalence of these rings is also behind the fact that the energy density at 35° S at the annual period is smaller than at 30° S, because the former latitude is closer to Agulhas retroflection and therefore more likely to be impacted by the Agulhas rings. In agreement with this, the energy density associated with mesoscale variability at 30° S is weaker than at 35° S. With respect to the forcing, the significant correlation between the Sverdrup balance derived from the wind stress and the observed transports at 30° S is 0.7. No significant correlation between these parameters was found at 35° S.
From cyclic ice streaming to Heinrich-like events: the grow-and-surge instability in the Parallel Ice Sheet Model
Authors: Feldmann Johannes , Levermann Anders
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Here we report on a cyclic, physical ice-discharge instability in the Parallel Ice Sheet Model, simulating the flow of a three-dimensional, inherently buttressed ice-sheet-shelf system which periodically surges on a millennial timescale. The thermomechanically coupled model on 1 km horizontal resolution includes an enthalpy-based formulation of the thermodynamics, a nonlinear stress-balance-based sliding law and a very simple subglacial hydrology. The simulated unforced surging is characterized by rapid ice streaming through a bed trough, resulting in abrupt discharge of ice across the grounding line which is eventually calved into the ocean. We visualize the central feedbacks that dominate the subsequent phases of ice buildup, surge and stabilization which emerge from the interaction between ice dynamics, thermodynamics and the subglacial till layer. Results from the variation of surface mass balance and basal roughness suggest that ice sheets of medium thickness may be more susceptible to surging than relatively thin or thick ones for which the surge feedback loop is damped. We also investigate the influence of different basal sliding laws (ranging from purely plastic to nonlinear to linear) on possible surging. The presented mechanisms underlying our simulations of self-maintained, periodic ice growth and destabilization may play a role in large-scale ice-sheet surging, such as the surging of the Laurentide Ice Sheet, which is associated with Heinrich events, and ice-stream shutdown and reactivation, such as observed in the Siple Coast region of West Antarctica.
Migration movements and their implications for Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Andeva Marina
Published: August 2017

Migrants and refugees coming from Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia have presented European leaders and policymakers with their greatest challenge since the Europe’s economic crisis. Mediterranean external borders of the European Union have been largely affected with tragic events and overwhelming management of huge migration flows, which in the last two to three years have changed their course through the territory of Western Balkan countries. In times when unfortunately, an establishment of a single unified system based on the principle of shared-burden and solidarity is still waiting for practical implementation and execution, a part of the shared-burden and responsibility for managing migration flows have been transferred to the transit countries along the so-called “Balkan route”. The Republic of Macedonia and its role within the Balkan route has been seen crucial and frequently disputed. Understanding the position of this country, requires an overview of few aspects which need to be taken into account. In order to assist this endeavor, this article will attempt to presents the Macedonia experiences with migration movements.
Malnutrition trends in preschool children from a primary healthcare center in Baghdad: A comparative two-year study (2006 and 2012)
Authors: Arif Hala Sameh
Published: August 2017

Background:Nutritional disorders still represent a major problem faced by developing countries. Surveying such problems is a step towards planning proper interventions, which contributes significantly to declines in under-five mortality rates.Aims:To study the state of nutritional trends in children under five years of age, attending a primary healthcare center in Al Shoula district, Iraq, in 2006 and 2012. Demographic features and feeding practices that may have had an effect on the nutritional status of children were also studied.Subjects and methods:Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted on children aged two to five years, in a primary healthcare center in Baghdad. Children attending for immunization were included (500 in 2006 and 570 in 2012), their mothers were interviewed, and the body mass index of the child was calculated. Children who were overweight and obese were identified, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention charts, as those suffering from stunting. Nutritional parameters were compared between the two study groups, using the chi-square test, as well as various epidemiological factors that may have affected the outcomes.Results:The prevalence of both types of nutritional disorders (stunting and overweight and obesity) declined remarkably according to the 2012 survey; overweight and obesity declined from 20% to 7.2%, while stunting decreased from 51.2% to 30.9%. The age group showing the highest rate of improvement were the four to five year olds, as well as children from lower-income families. A higher rate of breastfeeding was reported in 2012, and breastfed babies suffered the least from both types of nutritional disorders, in both study groups. Overall, the study findings showed a high prevalence of stunting (30.9%), together with a significant level of overweight and obesity (7.2%).Conclusion:Children in Iraq suffer from high rates of stunting. With a moderately high rate of obesity, there is an urgent need to evaluate local data available and plan for an active intervention to combat these nutritional problems.
Phenotypic characterization of açai palm germplasm from the Marajó’s archipelago and Baixo Tocantins territories
Authors: Sousa João Thiago Rodrigues de , Costa Milene Moara Reis , Pereira Aline Dos Santos , Mota Milton Guilherme Da Costa
Published: August 2017

The açai palm (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), a native of the Amazon region, is a food of great importance. Recently, due to the discovery of its nutraceutical properties, the rational production in upland areas has been encouraged. However, to support the rational implementation of its cultivation for fruit production, which is a sort of domestication process, it is necessary to identify its germplasm. The aim of this study was to evaluate and quantify the genetic diversity based on phenotypic characters among açai palm mother plants derived from 11 areas of the Amazonian estuary. Twenty-nine phenotypic descriptors were used: (i) 9 from the plant, (ii) 7 related to the fruit, and (iii) 13 of agronomic nature. Principal component analysis was used to assess the phenotypic variability from standardized data obtained from selected açai palm mother plants. In the selection of the descriptors, the methods of direct selection and selection with re-analysis were used. The disposal efficiency was estimated by comparing dissimilarity groups formed by 11 origins of the açai palms based on 29 original characters and 23 selected characters. The groups were formed using the average standardized Euclidean distance and Tocher’s optimization method. All the analyses were performed using the GENES program. The selection of 79.31% of the descriptors used was significant and was considered sufficient for the evaluation of the açai palm germplasm for fruit production. The selected descriptors were shown to be capable of quantifying the phenotypic diversity of mother plants of this species, consistently grouping them using the optimization method. The cluster method showed small differences in the number and composition of the groups due to variability among the selected mother plants.
Light sources and culture media in the in vitro growth of the Brazilian orchid Microlaelia lundii
Authors: Favetta Vanessa , Colombo Ronan Carlos , Mangili Júnior José Fernando , Faria Ricardo Tadeu de
Published: August 2017

The Brazilian micro-orchid Microlaelia lundii enchants by its beautiful blooms in winter, but its cultivation is still a challenge, requiring specific care. The objectiv of this work was to evaluate the influence of light sources and culture media on in vitro growth and ex vitro survival of this micro-orchid. M. lundii seedlings were transferred to flasks containing the culture medium ½ MS and Simplified Medium, consisting of 5 mL L-1 of Biofert Plus® NPK fertilizer (09-08-09) and 60 g L-1 of ‘Nanica’ banana pulp. These flasks were placed in a growth chamber composed of seven environments, characterized by types of lighting: L1) LEDtube 4000K; L2) LEDtube 6500K; L3) L1 + L2; L4) L1 + L1; L5) red LED; L6) blue LED; L7) fluorescent lamp (control). After 200 days of cultivation, biometric growth parameters and leaves chlorophyll content were evaluated together with the percentage of seedling survival when acclimatized. At the end of the experiment, an analysis of individual variances and a combined analysis of the environments were carried out. The simplified medium led to higher seedlings, especially for light source L6. Light sources L1, L2, L3 and L4 promoted an increase in the seedlings root system in the simplified medium. As for the chlorophyll content, L4 and L7 showed higher contents of chlorophyll a and b. The simplified medium led practically to 100% of seedling survival, regardless of the light source used. Results shown that the simplified medium for light sources L1, L2, L3 and L4 is recommended for the in vitro propagation of M. lundii.
Beet seed priming with growth regulators
Authors: Dotto Lucas , Silva Vanessa Neumann
Published: August 2017

Seed priming is a technique used to induce metabolic germination processes. Use of growth regulators in seed priming may facilitate increments in physiological processes during seed germination. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of priming and growth regulators on beet seed germination. The treatments were cultivar type (Early Wonder, Itapuã and Maravilha) and seed priming technique, which included a control (unconditioned seed) standard hydropriming (water) and a conditioning with salicylic, gibberellic and ascorbic acids, respectively. The treatments were defined by initially testing 0, 1, 2 and 4 mM ascorbic, gibberellic and salicylic acids. Before seed priming, imbibition seed curves were established to determine the optimal conditioning time. After conditioning, the germination, rate of germination, seedling length and seedling dry weight were evaluated. First, the appropriate dosage for conditioning was determined by using a completely randomized experimental design, with four replications per cultivar. Then, a 3 x 5 (cultivar x conditioning technique) factorial design was adopted. Whenever the results were significant by variance analysis, regression analysis was performed. Finally, Tukey’s test was used to compare the means at P=0.05. Beet seed priming alters the potential of germination and is influenced by the cultivar and conditioning technique. Pretreatment with 1?2 mM ascorbic, gibberellic or salicylic acids, respectively, promotes beet seed germination, whereas at 1?3 mM, the growth of roots and shoots of beet seedlings is promoted. The most effective techniques to promote germination and growth of sugar beet seedlings were priming with water, salicylic acid or gibberellic acid.
Soil, water, nutrients and soil organic matter losses by water erosion as a function of soil management in the Posses sub-watershed, Extrema, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Bispo Diêgo Faustolo Alves , Silva Marx Leandro Naves , Pontes Lucas Machado , Guimarães Danielle Vieira , Marques João José Granate de Sá e Melo , Curi Nilton
Published: August 2017

Knowledge of the quantity and quality of the material lost by soil erosion due to soil management is a basic need to identify land management zones in catchments. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of soil management on the quantity and quality of soil material lost by erosion in the Posses sub-watershed, Municipality of Extrema, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Water and sediments lost by natural rainfall erosion were sampled from erosion plots located on a Red-Yellow Argisol (PVA) under the following systems: bare soil, subsistence farming (maize/beans/pumpkin/jack-beans/fallow), degraded pasture, well-managed pasture, and reforestation set up in 2013; and in a Litholic Neosol (RL): reforestation set up in 2008, bare soil, and native forest. Ca, Mg, K, P, N and soil organic matter (SOM) contents were determined in sediment and soil samples (at 0-5 cm depth) for the determination of the runoff enrichment ratios. Management influences soil losses more so than water losses. Minor losses were found in reforestation set up in 2013 (soil); in well-managed pasture (water); and in reforestations (nutrients and SOM). These losses tend to stability with time. The general sequence of nutrient losses was N > Ca > Mg > K > P in PVA; and N > Ca > K > Mg > P in RL. Loss rates of SOM and N followed the order: bare soil > subsistence farming > degraded pasture > well-managed pasture > reforestation, in PVA; and bare soil > native forest > reforestation, in RL. Reforestation and well-management pasture are effective conservation strategies in order to lower the erosion process in the Posses sub-watershed. Soil losses, as well as nutrients and organic matter losses were more influenced by soil management than water losses. The safeguarding native forest under Litholic Neosol is essential to the conservation of this pedoenvironment, especially in steep slopes.
Evaluation of biofilm formation by bacterial strains isolated from milking equipment and milk samples from cows with mastitis
Authors: Chagas Laura Gonçalves da Silva , Melo Poliana De Castro , Brasão Silvia Cassimiro , Silvestre Gabriela Bim Ramos , Guimarães Ednaldo Carvalho , Lima Anna Monteiro Correia
Published: August 2017

The presence of biofilm-forming bacteria from the mammary gland of dairy cows adhered to equipment in the milking environment represents one of the major causes of bacterial resistance during mastitis treatment. The aim of this study was to identify strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli in milk samples from cows with mastitis, as well as in the expansion tank and milking set liners. We aimed to quantify the extracellular proteins and polysaccharides in the biofilm produced by each strain. A total of 294 samples were collected from a dairy farm in the municipality of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais. To identify the S. aureus, S. epidermidis and E. coli isolates responsible for biofilm production, we tested the phenotype using the Congo red agar (CRA) and microplate adhesion tests. Protein quantification was performed with a Bicinchoninic Acid Protein Assay Kit (BCA kit), and polysaccharides were quantified by the phenol sulfuric acid method. We identified eight strains of S. aureus, one strain of S. epidermidis and 11 strains of E. coli responsible for biofilm production, all of which showed a higher concentration of polysaccharides than proteins in the matrix. Escherichia coli was considered the most prevalent bacterium among the samples, and S. aureus was determined to be the largest biofilm producer. The results of the CRA and microplate adhesion tests were similar in regard to identification of the biofilm-producing strains according to their phenotype and matrix composition. The classification of S. aureus strains as major biofilm producers is of great concern for producers, as such bacteria are considered one of the predominant contagious etiological agents that cause bovine mastitis. In addition, our observation that E. coli and S. epidermidis can produce biofilms highlights the need to reassess prophylactic measures to avoid the adhesion of biofilm-producing bacteria.
Ex vivo biomechanical analysis of two methods of osteosynthesis in canine mandibular fractures
Authors: Isaka Luciano Jose Eigio , Prado Antonia Maria Do Rocio Binder do , Villanova Junior José Ademar , Pimpão Cláudia Turra , Soares Júnior Paulo César
Published: August 2017

Mandibular fractures represent an orthopedic challenge in veterinary medicine consideringthe large number of fixation methods that could be used depending on the location and manner in which the fracture occurs. Bone plates are a method of internal fixation that allows the correction of single or bilateral fractures, simple or comminuted; which appropriate material and technical knowledge for their use. Recent studies have demonstrated the superior strength that the locked plates present in relation to the neutralization plates, especially when used in flat bones or with lower bone density. The present study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical strength of neutralization plates and locked plates in oblique mandibular fractures in dogs. Sixteen hemimandibles from mesocephalic dogs were selected, weighing between 15 and 25 kg, without mandibular pathological alterations. Unfavorable fractures were performed between the 2nd and 3rd premolar teeth. The hemimandibles were allocated to two groups and stabilized with neutralization (Group 1) and locked (Group 2) plates. Both groups were subjected to the vertical compression test using the EMIC DL500 machine, sought to note the difference of maximum resistance between the implants. The statistical analysis used was the t-test and showed no difference (P = 0.135) between the strength of the group receiving neutralization plates (21.08±9.766kgf) and the group that received locked plates (25.96±7.029kgf). From the point of view of resistance to vertical compression, the neutralized and locked plates have the same biomechanical strength.
Effect of ovarian tissue storage in Morus nigra extract on the morphology and DNA fragmentation of ovine preantral follicles
Authors: Cavalcante Agnes Yasmin Pitombeira , Barberino Ricássio De Sousa , Gouveia Bruna Bortoloni , Bezerra Maria Éllida de Sousa , Menezes Vanúzia Gonçalves , Souza Grasielly Rocha , Rolim Larissa Araújo , Rolim-Neto Pedro José , Almeida Jackson Roberto Guedes da Silva , Matos Maria Helena Tavares de
Published: August 2017

This study demonstrated the effect of Morus nigra leaf extract during ovine ovarian tissue transportation on the survival and apoptosis of preantral follicles in vitro. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the fingerprint chromatogram of the crude ethanolic extract. Four pairs of ovaries from four sheep were collected. The ovarian cortex was fragmented and one fragment was fixed in 10% buffered formaldehyde and processed for histological and TUNEL analysis (fresh control). The other fragments were placed in Minimal Essential Medium (MEM – control medium) or M. nigra extract (0.025; 0.05 or 0.1 mg/mL) and stored (simulating transport) at 4ºC for 6, 12 or 24 h. Preserved fragments (6 h) were also destined to histological and TUNEL analysis. HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of antioxidant compounds (rutin, isoquercetin e kaempferitrin) in the extract. There was a decrease (P < 0.05) in the percentage of morphologically normal preantral follicles after preservation in all treatments compared to the fresh control. The percentage of normal preantral follicles after preservation in M. nigra at 0.05 mg/mL for 6 h was higher (P < 0.05) than in MEM or 0.025 mg/mL M. nigra and similar (P > 0.05) to 0.1 mg/mL of the extract. Apoptosis increased (P < 0.05) after conservation for 6 h in all treatments compared to the fresh control. Moreover, TUNEL positive cells decreased (P < 0.05) after preservation in 0.05 or 0.1 mg/mL M. nigra compared to MEM or 0.025 mg/mL M. nigra. In conclusion, 0.05 mg/mL M. nigra extract can be used as a preservation medium for ovine ovarian tissue at 4°C for up to 6 h.
Effect of shed rooftype and babassu pie on the productive characteristics of meat quails
Authors: Borges Jordane De Oliveira , Siqueira Jefferson Costa de , Diniz Humberto Campos , Carvalho Regilene Aragão de , Bomfim Marcos Antonio Delmondes , Ribeiro Felipe Barbosa , Nascimento Dáphinne Cardoso Nagib , Sousa Thiago Vinícius Ramos de
Published: August 2017

We aimed to evaluate the effects of shed roof(SR) typeand the inclusion of babassu pie (BP) in rations on the productive characteristics ofmeat quailsfrom days 14 to 28 and days14 to 40. We studied 896 meatquails. The experimental design was completely randomized with a 4x4 factorial arrangement, using four types of shedroofs (fiber cement, ceramic, straw, and painted fiber cement) and four rations (with 0, 5, 10, and 15% inclusion of babassu pie). The performance variables evaluated from 14 to 28 and 14 to 40 days included food intake (FI, g/bird), mean weight gain (WG, g/bird), food conversion (FC, g/g), mean live weight on day 28 (MW28, g/bird), mean live weight on day 40 (MW40, g/bird), and energy efficiency (EF; g Mcal). After slautherthe birds on day 40, we measured the carcass weight (CW) and the carcass yield (CY, %), obtained for the breast (BY), legs (LGY), and wings (WINGY). We also obtained the relative weight of the heart (HRW), liver (LRW), gizzard (GRW), and intestine (IRW). To compare the economic efficiency between the experimental rations, we analyzed the cost of ration per kg of carcass (CC) and determined the gross margin (GM). Between day 14 and day 28, we found that the use of SR influenced the FI28, WG28, and the MW28 of the quails (p < 0.05). BP did not affect FI28 (p > 0.05), but it linearly improved WG28, FC28, MW28, and EF28. Between days 14 and 40, we found that SR influenced the WG40, FC40, MW40, and EF40 of the quails (p < 0.05) and that a BP increased the FI40, WG40, and MW40 in a quadratic manner. SR and BP did not affect the CW, BY, WINGY, LGY, HRW, LRW,or IRW. However, BP influenced MGRW, which increased linearly with the inclusion of BP. We concluded that a ceramic roof provides better environmental conditions than do other shed roofs. The inclusion of BP improved the performance characteristics, and it was technically feasible to include up to 15% BP in the rations of meat quails. Based on the current cost analysis, however, the inclusion of BP is economically unfeasible.
Fatty acid profile and lambs’ meat quality fed with different levels of crude glycerin replacing corn
Authors: Rego Fabíola Cristine de Almeida , Françozo Mônica Chaves , Ludovico Agostinho , Castro Filipe Alexandre Boscaro de , Zundt Marilice , Lupo Camila Roberta , Belan Laís , Cunha Filho Luiz Fernando Coelho , Santos Joice Sifuentes dos , Castilho Caliê
Published: August 2017

This study aimed to evaluate the Texel lambs’ meat quality fed with increasing levels of crude glycerin (0, 7, 14, and 21% of dry matter) in the diet. Thirthy-two-two non-castrated male Texel lambs were used, with initial weight of 15.9 ± 4.1 kg, using a completely randomized design with four treatments and eight repetitions, per treatment. Upon reaching the average weight of 35 kg, the animals were slaughtered. The meat chemical composition was similar among treatments (P>0.05) and total lipids and crude protein presented averages of 3.47 and 20.05 g 100g -1, respectively. No changes in pH, marbling, color, and water loss under pressure were observed. The shear force did not change among treatments and the texture can be considered soft, with average values of 5.48 kgf. There was a linear (P0.05) were observed for the attributes flavor, tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptance among treatments. Fatty acids in higher proportions in the meat lamb were to C18:1n-9 (1298.90 mg 100g-1), C16:0 (709.07 mg 100g-1) and C18:0 (433.30 mg 100g-1), with percentages of 42.72, 23.07 and 14.35%, respectively. Significant difference according to the glycerin level in the diet was observed only for the margaric acid (C17:0) with an increasing linear effect, reaching 58.95 mg 100g-1 muscle to the group with 21% crude glycerin, corresponding to 1.77% of total fatty acids. The other fatty acids did not change, and provided a satisfactory result for conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), totaling about 6.1 mg 100 g-1 muscle, corresponding to 0.21% of total lipids. The use of glycerin in the diet for finishing lambs does not alter the characteristics of the meat, maintaining the product quality for consumption.
Nutritional value of sugarcane varieties in relation to nitrogen fertilization for the pre-Amazon Region of Brazil
Authors: Costa Mayanna Karlla Lima , Shigaki Francirose , Freitas José Roberto Brito , Rodrigues Rosane Cláudia , Carneiro Heloisa
Published: August 2017

This study evaluated the nutritional value of sugarcane varieties in relation to nitrogen fertilization. The varieties studied were RB 863129, RB 867515, and RB 92579, and nitrogen fertilizer was applied at doses of 0, 60, 80, 120, and 140 kg N ha-1. The experiment was divided into two stages: i) Year I - plant cane, when the yield and nutritional quality of the three sugarcane varieties were evaluated; ii) Years II and III, when and the effect of nitrogen fertilization on the nutritional quality of the first and second ratoon crops of the same varieties was evaluated. In plant cane the yield (t ha-1) and DM (dry matter) and CP (crude protein) contents were higher for the RB 863129 variety. There was no difference between the varieties regarding their NDF (neutral detergent fiber) and ADF (acid detergent fiber) contents and IVDMD (in vitro dry matter digestibility). In the first and second ratoon crops, there was a difference between the varieties and fertilizer doses for the evaluated parameters, with the exception of the DM content and IVDMD, which were influenced by the varieties, doses of N, and cutting years. The RB 92579 variety showed the best yield of the two ratoon crops (131 t ha-1 of stems) and the best nutritional parameters (26% ADF, 41% NDF, 2.4% CP, and 69.4% IVDMD). The sugarcane yield and its nutritional quality can be influenced by the cutting year and nitrogen fertilization management system and by the variety type.
High-quality total RNA isolation from melon (Cucumis melo L.) fruits rich in polysaccharides
Authors: Campos Gabrielle Silveira de , Ayub Ricardo Antônio , Etto Rafael Mazer , Galvão Carolina Weigert , Stroka Marília Aparecida , Inaba Juliana
Published: August 2017

Melon, a member of the family Cucurbitaceae, is the fourth most important fruit in the world market and, on a volume basis, is Brazil’s main fresh fruit export. Many molecular techniques used to understand the maturation of these fruits require high concentrations of highly purified RNA. However, melons are rich in polyphenolic compounds and polysaccharides, which interfere with RNA extraction. This study aimed to determine the most appropriate method for total RNA extraction from melon fruits. Six extraction buffers were tested: T1) guanidine thiocyanate/phenol/chloroform; T2) sodium azide/?-mercaptoethanol; T3) phenol/guanidine thiocyanate; T4) CTAB/PVP/?-mercaptoethanol; T5) SDS/sodium perchlorate/PVP/?-mercaptoethanol, and T6) sarkosyl/PVP/guanidine thiocyanate, using the AxyPrepTM Multisource Total RNA Miniprep Kit. The best method for extracting RNA from both mature and green fruit was based on the SDS/PVP/?-mercaptoethanol buffer, because it rapidly generated a high quality and quantity of material. In general, higher amounts of RNA were obtained from green than mature fruits, probably due to the lower concentration of polysaccharides and water. The purified material can be used as a template in molecular techniques, such as microarrays, RT-PCR, and in the construction of cDNA and RNA-seq data.
Status of persistent organic pesticide residues in water and food and their effects on environment and farmers: a comprehensive review in Nigeria
Authors: Mazlan Norida , Ahmed Mohammed , Muharam Farrah Melissa , Alam Md. Amirul
Published: August 2017

Pesticide helps to enhance agricultural production, however, it significantly affect both socio and environmental entities of a country. In Nigeria, pesticide is widely used, thus its traces have been detected in water, soil and air. Several studies have already indicated that most of the environmental ecology (air, water, and soil) in Nigeria has been contaminated by persistent organic pesticides like organochlorine and organophosphate. Other reasons of high pesticide residues present in Nigeria environment is due to inappropriate dosage applied of pesticides that leaves behind excess. However, its residues are found above safety levels in the air, water, and soil across the nation. Based on previous analysis, it is indicated that 125,000-130,000 metric ton pesticides are being applied annually in Nigeria. Despite banned of some pesticides such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane- and -Hexachlorocyclohexane, they are still being used by farmers in their agricultural production. Many of the Class 1 (high extremely toxic) pesticides are still being used in developing countries like Nigeria. Hence, there is need to sensitize and educate the general public especially the end-users (farmers) particularly on management practices of pesticides. Considering these entire hazardous situations, in this article the history of pesticide used in Nigeria has been reviewed in detail. The article also discussed the effects of pesticide use in Nigerian waters, soil and on crops. The risk of residual pesticide on agricultural workers, pesticide residue risk preventive measures by the Federal Government of Nigeria, banned and restricted pesticides in Nigeria, Nigerian Government and its efforts to eliminate persistent organic pesticides in use are also reviewed in details.
Change in energy metabolism of in vitro produced embryos: an alternative to make them more cryoresistant?
Authors: Dias Luzia Renata Oliveira , Pivato Ivo , Dode Margot Alves Nunes
Published: August 2017

For the development of in vitro produced (IVP) as well as in vivo produced bovine embryos, it is extremely important that their energy metabolism works properly because the embryo must be able to metabolize energy substrates that are necessary for producing energy. Lipids play an important role in early embryonic development, acting as source of energy for oocytes and embryos. However, it is known that oocytes and embryos, mainly IVP, accumulate large amounts of lipids in the cytoplasm. Although they are extremely important in embryonic development, lipids have been associated with the reduced survival of bovine embryos following cryopreservation. There is evidence that at least four different categories of lipids affect embryo survival after cryopreservation, including triglycerides (TAG), free fatty acids, cholesterol and phospholipids. Thus, many studies are being conducted to improve the resistance of IVP embryos to the cryopreservation process by reducing the concentration or removing the source of serum from the medium or by reducing oocyte/embryo lipids using mechanical or chemical means. Regarding the use of delipidating agents that reduce the uptake and synthesis of fatty acids (FA) by cells, substances such as phenazine ethosulfate (PES), forskolin, L-carnitine and isomers of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) have been utilized. This review aims to address important issues related to embryonic energy metabolism, the importance of lipid metabolism and its relation to the cryopreservation of IVP bovine embryos by summarizing the latest research in this field.