bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspectos físico-químicos e microbiológicos do queijo tipo coalho comercializado em estados do nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Sousa Andréa Zilá Barroso de , Abrantes Maria Rociene , Sakamoto Sidnei Miyoshi , Silva Jean Berg Alves da , Lima Patrícia de Oliveira , Lima Renata Nayhara de , Rocha Manuella de Oliveira Cabral , Passos Yanna Deysi Bandeira
Published: April 2014

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o perfil das características físico-químicas e microbiológicas dos queijos de coalho comercializados em seis estados do nordeste brasileiro. Foram realizadas análises físico-química e microbiológica de 104 amostras de queijo de coalho comercializadas nos estados de Pernambuco, Piauí, Ceará, Rio Grande do Norte, Sergipe e Paraíba, sendo 50 amostras inspecionadas e 54 sem inspeção. Não foi observada diferença significativa (p > 0,05) para os parâmetros físico-químicos entre as amostras. De acordo com os parâmetros legislativos, nas 104 amostras analisadas de queijos tipo coalho, verificaram-se que 100 (96,15%) estavam fora dos limites para Staphylococcus coagulase positiva; 32 amostras (31%) também não seguiam a padronização exigida para coliformes termotolerantes; e, em apenas uma amostra do total, constatou-se a presença de Salmonella sp. Não foi observada diferença significativa (p > 0,05) entre as amostras com e sem inspeção para as análises microbiológicas. A semelhança encontrada na avaliação dos parâmetros físico-químicos do queijo de coalho entre os estados avaliados demonstra uniformidade no processamento desse produto. Altos níveis de contaminação por agentes patogênicos, como o Staphylococcus coagulase positiva e coliformes termotolerantes, além da presença de Salmonella sp., demonstram que o consumo de queijo de coalho pode representar risco à saúde dos consumidores.
Parâmetros de qualidade do leite de cabra armazenado sob frio
Authors: Dutra Carina Morais Correa , Svierk Bianca , Ribeiro Maria Edi da Rocha , Pinto Andrea Troller , Zanela Maira Balbinotti , Schmidt Verônica
Published: April 2014

O leite de cabra é produzido em pequena escala, o que torna necessária sua estocagem, permitida pela legislação brasileira. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a ação do resfriamento e congelamento sobre as características físico-químicas e microbiológicas do leite de cabra. Não foi observada variabilidade nos valores médios de acidez, estabilidade ao álcool, densidade, gordura, proteína, sólidos totais e lactose após armazenamento sob frio. Não foi observada instabilidade ao calor em nenhuma das amostras analisadas. Verificou-se tendência à diminuição na contagem de células somáticas (CSS) no leite congelado em relação ao fresco e ao refrigerado. A quantificação (NMP) de coliformes totais e termotolerantes variou de < 3 (ausência de crescimento) à > 1.100 UFC/mL, independentemente do armazenamento. Entretanto, determinou-se contagem de coliformes totais e termotolerantes significativamente maior (p < 0,0001) nas amostras mantidas sob refrigeração. Na prova de lactofermentação, observaram-se coágulos digeridos, floculosos e sulcados sem estabelecer correlação entre estes e a contagem bacteriana. A CCS e a contagem microbiana são critérios adotados no pagamento pela qualidade no leite caprino, e a temperatura de armazenamento pode influir sobre elas.
Qualidade microbiológica do peixe serra (Scomberomerus brasiliensis) e do gelo utilizado na sua conservação
Authors: Ferreira Elka Machado , Lopes Ilderlane da Silva , Pereira Débora de Matos , Rodrigues Lucélia da Cunha , Costa Francisca Neide
Published: April 2014

Objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade microbiológica do peixe serra (S. brasiliensis) desembarcado no município de Raposa (MA) e do gelo utilizado na sua conservação. As amostras de gelo e de peixe serra foram submetidas às análises de determinação do Número Mais Provável (NMP) de Coliformes Totais, Termotolerantes e Escherichia coli. Para as amostras de peixe, realizou-se ainda pesquisa de Staphylococcus coagulase positivo, Salmonella spp. e Aeromonas spp. Aplicou-se aos pescadores um questionário com 20 perguntas referentes à manipulação do pescado. As amostras de gelo apresentaram qualidade microbiológica insatisfatória. O peixe serra encontrou-se contaminado por A. hydrophila, podendo veicular este agente ao ser consumido pela população.
Primeiro registro das espécies de cigarrinhas-da-raiz da cana-de-açúcar Mahanarva spectabilis (Distant) e Mahanarva liturata (Le Peletier & Serville) atacando canaviais na região de Goianésia (GO), Brasil
Authors: Alves Roberto Teixeira , Carvalho Gervásio Silva
Published: April 2014

As formas jovens da cigarrinha-da-raiz da cana-de-açúcar sugam as raízes, e os adultos sugam as folhas e injetam toxinas, causando necrose nos tecidos foliares. A espécie de cigarrinha mais citada em trabalhos científicos é a Mahanarva fimbriolata. Adultos de cigarrinha foram coletados em canaviais da Usina Jalles Machado, em Goianésia (GO). Estes foram montados, identificados e depositados na coleção da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS). A identificação foi feita pela genitália. Constatou-se tratar de Mahanarva spectabilis e Mahanarva liturata, consistindo-se no primeiro registro das espécies de cigarrinhas-da-raiz atacando os canaviais em Goianésia; no local, pensava-se que existia somente a espécie M. fimbriolata.
Cross-cultural adaptation of the Western Aphasia Battery - Revised screening test to Brazilian Portuguese: a preliminary study
Authors: Neves Márli de Borborema , Borsel John Van , Pereira Mônica Medeiros de Britto , Paradela Emylucy Martins Paiva
Published: April 2014

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to translate and cross-culturally adapt the Western Aphasia Battery - Revised (WAB-R) screening test, thus contributing to future applications of the instrument with Brazilian adults. Methods: The adaptation was based on a universalist perspective. The steps for conceptual, item, semantic and operational equivalence were strictly followed, resulting in a short version used in the pretest. The study participants were 30 individuals, between 18 to 89 years old; all were Brazilian speakers, with Portuguese as their first language. However, only 28 volunteers met the criteria for inclusion in the study. Two participants were excluded because they had low scores on the mini-mental state examination and were referred to geriatric assessment. Results: The short version of the WAB-R screening test, used in the pretest, allowed us to observe the behavior and language of the individuals during interactions, to collect impressions of overall communication, and to quantify communication ability by calculating the aphasia quotient and the language quotient, according to parameters of the original instrument. Conclusion: When adapting an instrument, it is important to maintain its original characteristics. However, the properties of measurement may not be in accordance with the psychometric properties of Brazilian culture. Therefore, we propose further analyses of the reliability and validation of the instrument in question in Brazil, which will occur by means of measurement and functional equivalence.
Profile of phonological awareness in bilingual and monolingual children
Authors: Souza Lourdes Bernadete Rocha de , Leite Aline Gisele Conceição
Published: April 2014

Purpose: To compare the performance of phonological awareness skills in bilingual and monolingual students of both genders. Methods: This research presents an observational, cross-sectional descriptive study conducted with 17 students from the 3rd grade, aged between seven years and 8 years and 11 months, with similar socioeconomic level, from two private schools, being one a monolingual school, and the other a bilingual one. Children at risk for auditory deprivation of any degree, those with learning difficulties, and children enrolled in the school less than two years were excluded from the research. A total of nine bilingual and eight monolingual students was tested using the Phonological Awareness Profile test. Results: The results showed that 64.7% of the 17 students tested reached the performance expected for their age, and 35.3% performed above expectation, being 83.3% of the latter bilingual students. The bilingual children presented better performance in the sequential rhyme skill and in the total test score, and the male bilingual children presented better performance in the phoneme addition skill. There was no statistically significant difference when comparing the performance of bilingual and monolingual female students. Conclusion: Bilingual children had greater command of phonemic awareness skill. Male bilingual children showed better performance when compared to their monolingual peers than female bilingual students.
Voice-related quality of life in the pediatric population: validation of the Brazilian version of the Pediatric Voice-Related Quality-of Life survey
Authors: Ribeiro Lívia Lima , Paula Kely Maria Pereira de , Behlau Mara
Published: April 2014

Purpose: To measure the voice-related quality of life in children/adolescents with vocal complaints through the validation of the Brazilian Pediatric Voice-Related Quality-of-Life survey - VR-QOL-P (Qualidade de Vida em Voz Pediátrico - QVV-P), to verify whether the presence of vocal complaints interfere with the quality of life of children/adolescents, and to determine the relationship between the vocal assessment carried out by parents and the VR-QOL-P scores. Methods: The participants included 246 parents of children/adolescents of both sexes, aged between 2 years and 18 years (divided into preschoolers, schoolers and adolescents), with and without vocal complaints. All participants signed the informed consent form. Translation, linguistic and cultural adaptation, assessment of cultural equivalence, implementation of the protocol in its final version, voice assessment by parents, demographic and clinical descriptive statistical analysis of the population, individual analysis of the items, verification of psychometric measures of validation, reliability, reproducibility and responsiveness of the instrument to treatment, were carried out. Results: Low scores, especially in the physical domain, were found in subjects with vocal complaints. Among those, adolescents suffered the greatest impact. The social-emotional domain was not sensitive in preschoolers. There was a correlation among the overall, social-emotional and physical scores, and the vocal assessment performed by parents. The VR-QOL-P was reliable, reproducible and responsive to voice problems. Conclusion: Voice change interferes with the quality of life of children/adolescents, and there is a relationship between the assessment of voice quality and VR-QOL-P scores - the older the individual, the worse the quality of life in aspects related to voice, especially in the physical domain, and the better the vocal quality, as perceived by the parents.
Quantitative instruments used to assess children's sense of smell: a review article
Authors: Moura Raissa Gomes Fonseca , Cunha Daniele Andrade , Gomes Ana Carolina de Lima Gusmão , Silva Hilton Justino da
Published: April 2014

Purpose: To systematically gather from the literature available the quantitative instruments used to assess the sense of smell in studies carried out with children. Research strategy: The present study included a survey in the Pubmed and Bireme platforms and in the databases of MedLine, Lilacs, regional SciELO and Web of Science, followed by selection and critical analysis of the articles found and chosen. Selection criteria: We selected original articles related to the topic in question, conducted only with children in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. We excluded studies addressing other phases of human development, exclusively or concurrently with the pediatric population; studies on animals; literature review articles; dissertations; book chapters; case study articles; and editorials. Data analysis: A book report protocol was created for this study, including the following information: author, department, year, location, population/sample, age, purpose of the study, methods, and main results. Results: We found 8,451 articles by typing keywords and identifiers. Out of this total, 5,928 were excluded by the title, 2,366 by the abstract, and 123 after we read the full text. Thus, 34 articles were selected, of which 28 were repeated in the databases, totalizing 6 articles analyzed in this review. Conclusion: We observed a lack of standardization of the quantitative instruments used to assess children's sense of smell, with great variability in the methodology of the tests, which reduces the effectiveness and reliability of the results.
Forecasting the Vulnerability of Lakes to Aquatic Plant Invasions
Authors: Tamayo Mariana , Olden Julian D.
Published: April 2014

Prevention is an integral component of many management strategies for aquatic invasive species, yet this represents a formidable task when the landscapes to be managed include multiple invasive species, thousands of waterbodies, and limited resources to implement action. Species distributional modeling can facilitate prevention efforts by identifying locations that are most vulnerable to future invasion based on the likelihood of introduction and environmental suitability for establishment. We used a classification tree approach to predict the vulnerability of lakes in Washington State (United States) to three noxious invasive plants: Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), Brazilian egeria (Egeria densa), and curlyleaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus). Overall, the distribution models predicted that approximately one-fifth (54 out of 319 study lakes) of lakes were at risk of being invaded by at least one aquatic invasive plant, and many of these predicted vulnerable lakes currently support high native plant diversity and endemism. Highly vulnerable lakes are concentrated in western Washington in areas with the highest human population densities, and in eastern Washington along the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project and the Okanogan River Basin that boast hundreds of lakes subject to recreational use. Overall, invasion potential for the three species was highly predictable as a function of lake attributes describing human accessibility (e.g., public boat launch, urban land use) and physical–chemical conditions (e.g., lake area, elevation, productivity, total phosphorous). By identifying highly vulnerable lake ecosystems, our study offers a strategy for prioritizing on-the-ground management action and informing the most efficient allocation of resources to minimize future plant invasions in vast freshwater networks.
Natural History Survey of the Ornamental Grass Miscanthus sinensis in the Introduced Range
Authors: Dougherty Ryan F. , Quinn Lauren D. , Endres A. Bryan , Voigt Thomas B. , Barney Jacob N.
Published: April 2014

Miscanthus sinensis is a perennial grass native to Asia, but since its introduction to the United States in the late 19th century, it has become both a major ornamental crop and invasive species. Previous studies of the ecology of M. sinensis in both its introduced and native ranges have suggested that it may be occupying a novel ecological niche in the introduced range. Miscanthus sinensis and its daughter species, Miscanthus × giganteus, are under evaluation as bioenergy crops; therefore, characterization of the ecology and environmental niche of M. sinensis is essential to mitigate the risk of fostering future invasion in the United States. In July 2011, we surveyed 18 naturalized M. sinensis populations spanning the U.S. distribution, covering a 6° latitudinal gradient from North Carolina to Massachusetts. Miscanthus sinensis populations ranged in size from 3 to 181,763 m2 with densities between 0.0012 and 2.2 individuals m−2, and strongly favored highly disturbed and unmanaged habitats such as roadsides and forest edges. Population size and individual plant morphology (i.e., tiller height, basal diameter, and tiller number) were not affected by soil characteristics and nutrient availability, though increased tree canopy cover was associated with reduced population size (P < 0.0001). Plant size and vigor were not significantly affected by low light availability, which supports previous suggestions of shade tolerance of M. sinensis. In summary, M. sinensis can tolerate a broad range of climatic conditions, light availability, and nutrient availability in the eastern United States, suggesting risk of further invasion beyond its current distribution in the United States.
Management of Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata in Western Australia
Authors: Scott John K. , Batchelor Kathryn L.
Published: April 2014

One of Australia's most serious weeds, Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata (bitou bush) was recently found for the first time in Western Australia as a well established population in Kwinana, a major port and industrial area south of Perth, the State's capital. This population is remote from other bitou bush infestations in Australia and had escaped detection despite extensive surveys in the same State for the other subspecies that is present in Australia, Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. monilifera (boneseed). The main reasons it went undetected are thought to be the tightly controlled access to this area because of mineral processing and port activities, the unusual invasion route via a heavy industrial area and the morphological similarity to a native species when it is not flowering. Two surveys defined the core population of 1038 plants that are spread along the coast over a 25-ha semi-circle with about a 500-m (1640 ft) diameter. Subsequent surveys of first a 500 m buffer zone and later a 1-km (0.621 mi) buffer found four additional plants, indicating that there is considerable potential for dispersal. We concluded that the survey has not delimited the distribution because of the potential and evidence for long distance dispersal. Cooperation by the various land managers has led to all plants being killed, as an initial step to management of this species. Other steps to be undertaken include an awareness campaign in the area that would need to be surveyed for delimitation of the spatial distribution and seed bank assessment to measure potential dispersal both in space and through time. It remains to be determined what is the best strategic response: eradication or containment.
Alternatives to Release: Efficient Methods for Disposal of Excess or Unwanted Aquarium Macroalgae in the Genus Chaetomorpha
Authors: Odom Rachel L. , Solomon Joshua A. , Walters Linda J.
Published: April 2014

Aquarium release is a vector for introducing nonnative species that threatens the ecological integrity of aquatic systems. Following coastal invasions by released aquarium strains of Caulerpa taxifolia, aquarists began using the macroalgal genus Chaetomorpha. Use of Chaetomorpha now exceeds 50% of U.S. aquarium hobbyists we surveyed. Aquarium strains of this macroalgal genus possess broad environmental tolerances, demonstrate high nutrient uptake and growth rates, and reproduce by fragmentation. Although these characteristics make Chaetomorpha a desirable aquarium inhabitant, they may also promote invasive tendencies if the alga is introduced into a natural ecosystem. We sought to proactively mitigate this potential invasion risk by testing algal disposal techniques that serve as responsible alternatives to releasing viable individuals. We tested methods used by aquarium hobbyists—boiling, microwaving, freezing, desiccation, and exposure to freshwater. We determined the minimum durations that these techniques must be used in order to induce mortality in three aquarium purchases of Chaetomorpha. We found that boiling for at least 1 min, microwaving for at least 15 s, or freezing for at least 24 h were sufficient to induce 100% mortality in 1-cm-long fragments and clumps up to 1.5 g. Desiccation required more than 24 h when exposed to air and 6 d for samples kept in closed containers. Freshwater exposure was effective at 6 d. These results indicate that disposal of excess or unwanted Chaetomorpha via garbage (if destined for a landfill) or indoor plumbing (e.g., sinks and toilets) represent safe alternatives to release. Disposal of algal tissue, shipping water, or tank water containing small algal fragments down stormwater drains, however, could introduce this hardy species into favorable conditions that could result in detrimental biological invasions.
Variable Seed Viability of Mile-a-Minute Weed (Devil's Tearthumb,Persicaria perfoliata)
Authors: Smith Jeffrey R. , Hough-Goldstein Judith , Lake Ellen C.
Published: April 2014

Mile-a-minute weed or devil's tearthumb (Polygonum perfoliatum, syn. =Persicaria perfoliata) is an invasive annual vine in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern United States that reproduces solely through seeds. Our study aimed to identify how mile-a-minute seed viability is affected by time of year and the maturity of the fruit surrounding the achene. Full-sized immature (green) and mature (blue) fruits were collected from five field sites every 2 wk over a 3 mo period, and seed viability was assessed using a triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TZ) assay. At the onset of seed production in mid-August, 35% of seeds from immature fruits were viable. This percentage increased steadily, peaking at 84% in late September before declining at some sites around the time of the first frost. In contrast nearly all seeds with mature fruits (96%) were viable at all collection dates. Thus land managers who apply physical or chemical control methods for mile-a-minute weed should do so before the onset of any seed production and not simply before fruit maturation. If it is necessary to apply control methods after fruit set, it should be done as early in the season as possible.
Effectiveness of Exotic Plant Treatments on National Park Service Lands in the United States
Authors: Abella Scott R.
Published: April 2014

The United States created national parks to conserve indigenous species, ecological processes, and cultural resources unimpaired for future generations. Curtailing impacts of exotic species is important to meeting this mission. This synthesis identified 56 studies reported in 60 publications that evaluated effects of exotic plant treatments on National Park Service lands. Studies encompassed 35 parks in 20 states and one U.S. territory and included 157 exotic plant species. Eighty-seven percent of studies reported that at least one treatment reduced focal exotic species. Of 30 studies evaluating response of native vegetation, 53% reported that natives increased, 40% reported neutral responses, and 7% reported that natives decreased. For at least some of the neutral cases, neutrality was consistent with management objectives. In other cases, insufficient time may have elapsed to thoroughly characterize responses, or restoration might be needed. Nonfocal exotic species increased in 44% of the 16 studies evaluating them, but the other 56% of studies reported no increase. Results suggest that: (1) a range of exotic species spanning annual forbs to trees have been effectively treated; (2) developing effective treatments often required extensive experimentation and balancing nontarget impacts; (3) presence of multiple exotic species complicated treatment efforts, highlighting importance of preventing invasions; and (4) placing treatment objectives and outcomes in context, such as pretreatment condition of native vegetation, is important to evaluating effectiveness. Attaining the goal in national parks of conserving native species and ecological processes minimally influenced by exotic species will likely require comprehensive management strategies inclusive of treatment interactions with focal exotic species, other potential invaders, and native species.
Disturbance legacies increase the resilience of forest ecosystem structure, composition, and functioning
Authors: Seidl Rupert , Rammer Werner , Spies Thomas A.
Published: April 2014

Disturbances are key drivers of forest ecosystem dynamics, and forests are well adapted to their natural disturbance regimes. However, as a result of climate change, disturbance frequency is expected to increase in the future in many regions. It is not yet clear how such changes might affect forest ecosystems, and which mechanisms contribute to (current and future) disturbance resilience. We studied a 6364‐ha landscape in the western Cascades of Oregon, USA, to investigate how patches of remnant old‐growth trees (as one important class of biological legacies) affect the resilience of forest ecosystems to disturbance. Using the spatially explicit, individual‐based, forest landscape model iLand, we analyzed the effect of three different levels of remnant patches (0%, 12%, and 24% of the landscape) on 500‐year recovery trajectories after a large, high‐severity wildfire. In addition, we evaluated how three different levels of fire frequency modulate the effects of initial legacies. We found that remnant live trees enhanced the recovery of total ecosystem carbon (TEC) stocks after disturbance, increased structural complexity of forest canopies, and facilitated the recolonization of late‐seral species (LSS). Legacy effects were most persistent for indicators of species composition (still significant 500 years after disturbance), while TEC (i.e., a measure of ecosystem functioning) was least affected, with no significant differences among legacy scenarios after 236 years. Compounding disturbances were found to dampen legacy effects on all indicators, and higher initial legacy levels resulted in elevated fire severity in the second half of the study period. Overall, disturbance frequency had a stronger effect on ecosystem properties than the initial level of remnant old‐growth trees. A doubling of the historically observed fire frequency to a mean fire return interval of 131 years reduced TEC by 10.5% and lowered the presence of LSS on the landscape by 18.1% on average, demonstrating that an increase in disturbance frequency (a potential climate change effect) may considerably alter the structure, composition, and functioning of forest landscapes. Our results indicate that live tree legacies are an important component of disturbance resilience, underlining the potential of retention forestry to address challenges in ecosystem management.
A Maternal Gluten-Free Diet Reduces Inflammation and Diabetes Incidence in the Offspring of NOD Mice
Authors: Hansen Camilla Hartmann Friis , Krych Łukasz , Buschard Karsten , Metzdorff Stine B. , Nellemann Christine , Hansen Lars H. , Nielsen Dennis S. , Frøkiær Hanne , Skov Søren , Hansen Axel K.
Published: April 2014

Early-life interventions in the intestinal environment have previously been shown to influence diabetes incidence. We therefore hypothesized that a gluten-free (GF) diet, known to decrease the incidence of type 1 diabetes, would protect against the development of diabetes when fed only during the pregnancy and lactation period. Pregnant nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice were fed a GF or standard diet until all pups were weaned to a standard diet. The early-life GF environment dramatically decreased the incidence of diabetes and insulitis. Gut microbiota analysis by 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed a pronounced difference between both mothers and their offspring on different diets, characterized by increased numbers of Akkermansia, Proteobacteria, and TM7 in the GF diet group. In addition, pancreatic forkhead box P3 regulatory T cells were increased in GF-fed offspring, as were M2 macrophage gene markers and tight junction–related genes in the gut, while intestinal gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines was reduced. An increased proportion of T cells in the pancreas expressing the mucosal integrin α4β7 suggests that the mechanism involves increased trafficking of gut-primed immune cells to the pancreas. In conclusion, a GF diet during fetal and early postnatal life reduces the incidence of diabetes. The mechanism may involve changes in gut microbiota and shifts to a less proinflammatory immunological milieu in the gut and pancreas.
Systemic VEGF-A Neutralization Ameliorates Diet-Induced Metabolic Dysfunction
Authors: Wu Lindsay E. , Meoli Christopher C. , Mangiafico Salvatore P. , Fazakerley Daniel J. , Cogger Victoria C. , Mohamad Mashani , Pant Himani , Kang Myung-Jin , Powter Elizabeth , Burchfield James G. , Xirouchaki Chrysovalantou E. , Mikolaizak A. Stefanie , Stöckli Jacqueline , Kolumam Ganesh , van Bruggen Nicholas , Gamble Jennifer R. , Le Couteur David G. , Cooney Gregory J. , Andrikopoulos Sofianos , James David E.
Published: April 2014

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of cytokines are important regulators of angiogenesis that have emerged as important targets for the treatment of obesity. While serum VEGF levels rise during obesity, recent studies using genetic models provide conflicting evidence as to whether VEGF prevents or accelerates metabolic dysfunction during obesity. In the current study, we sought to identify the effects of VEGF-A neutralization on parameters of glucose metabolism and insulin action in a dietary mouse model of obesity. Within only 72 h of administration of the VEGF-A–neutralizing monoclonal antibody B.20-4.1, we observed almost complete reversal of high-fat diet–induced insulin resistance principally due to improved insulin sensitivity in the liver and in adipose tissue. These effects were independent of changes in whole-body adiposity or insulin signaling. These findings show an important and unexpected role for VEGF in liver insulin resistance, opening up a potentially novel therapeutic avenue for obesity-related metabolic disease.
Small Intestinal Glucose Exposure Determines the Magnitude of the Incretin Effect in Health and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Marathe Chinmay S. , Rayner Christopher K. , Bound Michelle , Checklin Helen , Standfield Scott , Wishart Judith , Lange Kylie , Jones Karen L. , Horowitz Michael
Published: April 2014

The potential influence of gastric emptying on the “incretin effect,” mediated by glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), is unknown. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of intraduodenal (ID) glucose infusions at 2 (ID2) and 4 (ID4) kcal/min (equating to two rates of gastric emptying within the physiological range) on the size of the incretin effect, gastrointestinal glucose disposal (GIGD), plasma GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon secretion in health and type 2 diabetes. We studied 10 male BMI-matched controls and 11 male type 2 patients managed by diet or metformin only. In both groups, GIP, GLP-1, and the magnitude of incretin effect were greater with ID4 than ID2, as was GIGD; plasma glucagon was suppressed by ID2, but not ID4. There was no difference in the incretin effect between the two groups. Based on these data, we conclude that the rate of small intestinal glucose exposure (i.e., glucose load) is a major determinant of the comparative secretion of GIP and GLP-1, as well as the magnitude of the incretin effect and GIGD in health and type 2 diabetes.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Is Independently Associated With an Increased Incidence of Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Targher Giovanni , Mantovani Alessandro , Pichiri Isabella , Mingolla Lucia , Cavalieri Valentina , Mantovani William , Pancheri Serena , Trombetta Maddalena , Zoppini Giacomo , Chonchol Michel , Byrne Christopher D. , Bonora Enzo
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE

There is no information about the role of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in predicting the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 261 type 1 diabetic adults with preserved kidney function and with no macroalbuminuria at baseline, who were followed for a mean period of 5.2 years for the occurrence of incident CKD (defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and/or macroalbuminuria). NAFLD was diagnosed by ultrasonography.

RESULTS

At baseline, patients had a mean eGFR of 92 ± 23 mL/min/1.73 m2; 234 (89.7%) of them had normoalbuminuria and 27 (10.3%) microalbuminuria. NAFLD was present in 131 (50.2%) patients. During follow-up, 61 subjects developed incident CKD. NAFLD was associated with an increased risk of incident CKD (hazard ratio [HR] 2.85 [95% CI 1.59–5.10]; P < 0.001). Adjustments for age, sex, duration of diabetes, hypertension, A1C, and baseline eGFR did not appreciably attenuate this association (adjusted HR 2.03 [1.10–3.77], P < 0.01). Results remained unchanged after excluding those who had microalbuminuria at baseline (adjusted HR 1.85 [1.03–3.27]; P < 0.05). Addition of NAFLD to traditional risk factors for CKD significantly improved the discriminatory capability of the regression models for predicting CKD (e.g., with NAFLD c statistic 0.79 [95% CI 0.73–0.86] vs. 0.76 [0.71–0.84] without NAFLD, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to demonstrate that NAFLD is strongly associated with an increased incidence of CKD. Measurement of NAFLD improves risk prediction for CKD, independently of traditional cardio-renal risk factors, in patients with type 1 diabetes.
Factors Involved In Dental Surgery Fires: A Review of the Literature
Authors: VanCleave Andrea M. , Jones James E. , McGlothlin James D. , Saxen Mark A. , Sanders Brian J. , Walker LaQuia A.
Published: April 2014

Surgical fires are well-characterized, readily preventable, potentially devastating operating room catastrophes that continue to occur from 20 to 100 times per year or, by one estimate, up to 600 times per year in US operating rooms, sometimes with fatal results. The most significant risk factors for surgical fires involve (a) the use of an ignition source, such as laser or electrocautery equipment, in or around an oxygen-enriched environment in the head, neck, and upper torso area and (b) the concurrent delivery of supplemental oxygen, especially via nasal cannula. Nonetheless, while these 2 conditions occur very commonly in dental surgery, especially in pediatric dental surgery where sedation and anesthesia are regularly indicated, there is a general absence of documented dental surgical fires in the literature. Barring the possibility of underreporting for fear of litigation, this may suggest that there is another mechanism or mechanisms present in dental or pediatric dental surgery that mitigates this worst-case risk of surgical fires. Some possible explanations for this include: greater fire safety awareness by dental practitioners, incidental ventilation of oxygen-enriched environments in patient oral cavities due to breathing, or suction used by dental practitioners during procedures. This review of the literature provides a background to suggest that the practice of using intraoral suction in conjunction with the use of supplemental oxygen during dental procedures may alter the conditions needed for the initiation of intraoral fires. To date, there appear to be no published studies describing the ability of intraoral suctioning devices to alter the ambient oxygen concentration in an intraoral environment. In vivo models that would allow examination of intraoral suction on the ambient oxygen concentration in a simulated intraoral environment may then provide a valuable foundation for evaluating the safety of current clinical dental surgical practices, particularly in regard to the treatment of children.
Adverse Drug Reactions in Dental Practice
Authors: Becker Daniel E.
Published: April 2014

Adverse reactions may occur with any of the medications prescribed or administered in dental practice. Most of these reactions are somewhat predictable based on the pharmacodynamic properties of the drug. Others, such as allergic and pseudoallergic reactions, are less common and unrelated to normal drug action. This article will review the most common adverse reactions that are unrelated to drug allergy.
Echocardiography parameters of clinically normal adult captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Sleeper Meg M. , Drobatz Ken , Lee D. Richard , Lammey Michael L.
Published: April 2014

Objective—To generate reference ranges for echocardiographic variables in clinically normal adult chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes).

Design—Retrospective cohort study.

Animals—88 clinically normal adult chimpanzees.

Procedures—Echocardiographic data obtained between 2002 and 2011 from chimpanzees at the Alamogordo Primate Facility were reviewed (263 echocardiograms obtained from 158 individuals). Data from clinically normal individuals (33 females and 55 males) were analyzed. Basic cardiac parameters measured in all individuals included aortic root diameter and left atrial diameter in the short and long axis during diastole. Left ventricular measurements included left ventricular internal diameter in systole and diastole and diastolic septal and posterior wall thickness. The E point to septal separation was also measured. Spectral Doppler measurements included the peak flow velocity of the pulmonary artery and aorta and diastolic transmitral flow. The presence of arrhythmias was also noted.

Results—Standard echocardiographic findings for a large group of adult female and male chimpanzees were obtained. Female and male chimpanzees were grouped by age in 10-year blocks, and echocardiographic findings were analyzed statistically by 10-year block. In male chimpanzees, cardiac arrhythmias were noted to increase with age.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cardiovascular disease is an important cause of morbidity and death in captive chimpanzees; however, basic echocardiographic measurements from a large cohort of clinically normal animals have not previously been reported. The number of animals in the present study was insufficient to generate reference ranges; however, data from a large cohort of clinically normal animals are presented. This information will be useful for veterinarians working in clinical and research settings with this species.
Adolescents' Physical Activities and Peer Norms: The Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy
Authors: Lu Frank J. H. , Hsu Ya-Wen , Wang Erica T. W. , Lin Ju-Han , Chou Chien-Chih , Yeh Li-Chin
Published: April 2014

The purpose of the present study was to examine the relations among adolescents' self-efficacy and social norms, and physical activity and whether self-efficacy mediated the relationship between social norms and physical activity. 400 junior high school students (202 boys, 198 girls, 2 not identified; M age=15.3 yr., SD = 0.6) completed a demographic questionnaire, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Perceived Self-Efficacy in Physical Activity Scale, and the Physical Activity Social Norms Scale. Regression analyses indicated that both self-efficacy and social norms predicted physical activity. Self-efficacy fully mediated the relationship between peer norms and physical activity for boys but partially mediated the relationship for girls. An application of the results may be to foster self-efficacy and peer norms as a motivational strategy for supporting increased physical activity.
On optimal boundary and distributed control of partial integro–differential equations
Authors: Khurshudyan Asatur Zh.
Published: April 2014

A method of optimal control problems investigation for linear partial integro-differential equations of convolution type is proposed, when control process is carried out by boundary functions and right hand side of equation. Using Fourier real generalized integral transform control problem solution is reduced to minimization procedure of chosen optimality criterion under constraints of equality type on desired control function. Optimality of control impacts is obtained for two criteria, evaluating their linear momentum and total energy. Necessary and sufficient conditions of control problem solvability are obtained for both criteria. Numerical calculations are done and control functions are plotted for both cases of control process realization.
κ-compactness, extent and the Lindelöf number in LOTS
Authors: Buhagiar David , Chetcuti Emmanuel , Weber Hans
Published: April 2014

We study the behaviour of ℵ-compactness, extent and Lindelöf number in lexicographic products of linearly ordered spaces. It is seen, in particular, that for the case that all spaces are bounded all these properties behave very well when taking lexicographic products. We also give characterizations of these notions for generalized ordered spaces.
Molecular and morphological exploration of a mixed population of two potato-parasiting nematode species, Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida
Authors: Douda O. , Zouhar M. , Renčo M. , Marek M.
Published: April 2014

In this work, we report results of molecular and morphological analyses of a potato field population of Globodera (Nematoda: Heteroderidae) species, in Slovakia. Unexpectedly, our data show a mixed occurrence of two potato cyst nematode species, Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida, in this locality. To our knowledge, this is the first report of mixed occurrence of these economically important plant-parasitic species in the same locality in the Central Europe. In addition, this finding reinforces the possibility of the cross-hybridization between these two nematode species that might result in a generation of new genotypes.
Strongyloides westeri and Parascaris equorum: Observations in field studies in Thoroughbred foals on some farms in Central Kentucky, USA
Authors: Lyons E. , Tolliver S.
Published: April 2014

Observations were made on the intestinal threadworm (Strongyloides westeri) and ascarid (Parascaris equorum) in field studies in 373 Thoroughbred foals on nine farms in Central Kentucky (USA) in 2013. Qualitative examination was made of feces of the foals for presence of S. westeri and P. equorum eggs. The main purpose of the prevalence study was to obtain current data on S. westeri in Thoroughbred foals. This was done to compare these findings with earlier studies in this geographical area where the prevalence of this parasite has been very low the last several decades. All the foals except on one farm had been treated one or more times with a parasiticide before the study. Prevalence of S. westeri in foals was 0 to 3 % on two farms, 6 to 9 % on three farms, and 20 to 51 % on four farms. The prevalence of P. equorum in foals was 0 to 14 % on three farms, 27 to 38 % on three farms, and 46 to 51 % on three farms. Effect of drugs given before the current study, on the prevalence of the two parasitic nematode species, is discussed. Also, three field tests were done by the present authors to evaluate activity of three individual or combination of drugs against ascarids. Evaluation was somewhat limited because, on two of the farms, a relatively small number of foals was passing ascarid eggs before treatment. However, oxibendazole and oxibendazole/piperazine combination were much more efficacious than fenbendazole.
A new locality and host record for Enterogyrus coronatus (Pariselle Lambert & Euzet (1991) in South Africa and a review of the morphology and distribution of Enterogyrus (Ancyrocephalidae) species
Authors: Madanire-Moyo G. , Avenant-Oldewage A.
Published: April 2014

Examination of 40 specimens of Pseudocrenilabrus philander
philander (Weber, 1897) collected from Padda Dam (26°10′S; 17°59′E), South Africa revealed the presence of a stomach monogenean of the genus Enterogyrus (Paperna, 1963). The monogenean presented a prevalence of 52.5 % and mean intensity of 4.2. The body, surrounded by a thick cuticle which is striated transversally, is dorso-ventrally flattened. The haptor has two pairs of gripi, a lightly sclerotised ventral transverse bar and marginal uncinuli. The dorsal gripus has a bifurcate root and a curved blade which is shorter than the shaft and is larger than that of the ventral gripus. The genetic distance between E. coronatus and the present Enterogyrus species (0.24 %) confirms the morphological similarities. This study presents a new locality and host record of the genus Enterogyrus from South Africa and a review of the morphology and distribution of Enterogyrus species is also given.
Monogenoidea on exotic Indian freshwater fishes. 2. Range expansion of Thaparocleidus caecus and T. siamensis (Dactylogyridae) by introduction of striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus (Pangasiidae)
Authors: Tripathi A. , Rajvanshi S. , Agrawal N.
Published: April 2014

Thaparocleidus caecus and Thaparocleidus siamensis are parasitic monogeneans found on the gills of striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus (Pangasiidae), a native species of Southeast Asia. We report T. caecus and T. siamensis, for the first time in India, from the gills of aquarium-kept P. hypophthalmus (prevalence 40 % and 80 % respectively). We also report T. siamensis from the gills of pond-cultured P. hypophthalmus (prevalence 100 %); no specimen of T. caecus was observed on pondcultured P. hypophthalmus (prevalence 0 %). Morphometric data of the studied parasites did not differ significantly from previous descriptions of the two species recovered in other geographic locations. Similarly, no consequential variation was found when 28S rDNA of T. siamensis from the present study was compared with that of T. siamensis from Malaysia available on GenBank. The present investigation adds to growing cases of freshwater monogeneans that have been concomitantly introduced worldwide as a result of aquarium and aquaculture trade.
Response of nematode communities to reclamation of agricultural soils following degradation through brown coal strip-mining processes
Authors: Chen Y. , Mekete T. , Dababat A. , Daub M. , Cao Z. , Sikora R.
Published: April 2014

The study assessed the impact on the soil nematodes during the first 3-years after reclamation of a brown coal mining area. Samples were taken from 5 fields: 1 year before excavation, right at the beginning of reclamation (Yr 0), and in fields 1, 2 and 3 years after reclamation. A total of 31 families of nematodes were recorded and the nematode community of field Yr 0 was significantly different from that of other four sampling sites. Nematode abundance decreased after excavation and then began to return to initial community levels at each of the three reclamation sites with bacterivore nematodes recovering faster than the fungivores, omnivore-predators or the plant parasites. A gradual but consistent regeneration of the nematode community to its original structure was seen from the beginning of sampling and this recovery process was detectable over the three successive years of experimentation. Open-pit mining, therefore, drastically disturbed nematode community structure initially but the community was able to recover and stabilized quickly after reclamation.
An abattoir-based study on helminthes of slaughtered goats (Capra hircus L., 1758) in upper Egypt, Egypt
Authors: Elshahawy I. , Metwally A. , Ibrahim D.
Published: April 2014

The present study describes the occurrence of various gastrointestinal helminths and liver flukes in goats from post mortem examinations performed between 2010 and 2011. Forty five adult goats were euthanized necropsy examination and for identification of adult gastrointestinal helminths and liver flukes. Eleven animals (24.44 %) were found to be infected with one or more species of gastrointestinal helminth. Haemonchus contortus emerged as the most prevalent species (15.5 %), with Moniezia expansa and Fasciola gigantica also being common (11.11 % and 4.4 %, respectively). Additionally, Haemonchus longistipes, Cysticercus tenuicollis, and Paramphistomum microbothrium were present at low infection rates (2.2 %). Mixed infections were similarly most prevalent. Haemonchus longistipes; the most pathogenic Strongyle nematode of camels was reported for the first time infecting goats in Egypt. The present study indicates that abattoir surveys would reveal the prevalence of various species of problematic helminths, and thus appropriate measures can be adopted to control the respective worms.