bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biopolymer Based Tough and Self-Recovering Ionic-Covalent Entanglement Hydrogels
Authors: Kirchmajer Damian M. , Panhuis Marc in het
Published: July 2014

Emerging applications for hydrogels such as soft robotics and tissue engineering require hydrogels with enhanced mechanical performance. We report the mechanical characteristics of two types of hydrogels: i) ionic-covalent entanglement (ICE) network hydrogels based on calcium cross-linked gellan gum and genipin cross-linked gelatin and ii) ICE microsphere reinforced gelatin hydrogels. This investigation showed that ICE gels can recover up 80% of their mechanical behavior during 5 repeated compressions. In addition, the optimum mechanical performance of gelatin reinforced gels was achieved with inclusion of 40% of ICE microspheres.
CYTOTOXIC ACTIVITY AND APOPTOSIS INDUCTION OF T47D CELL LINES BY Turbinaria decurrens EXTRACT
Authors: Nursid Muhammad , Fajarningsih Nurrahmi Dewi , Chasanah Ekowati
Published: July 2014

Marine algae is known to contain a wide variety of biomedical compounds having pharmaceutical applications. The aim of this research was to evaluate cytotoxic activity and apoptosis induction of Turbinaria decurrens extract on T47D cell lines.  Cytotoxic activity test was conducted by using MTT assay whereas detection of apoptosis was evaluated by DNA fragmentations and flow cytometry analysis. The MTT test showed that crude extract had medium cytotoxic activity to T47D, HepG2, and C28 cell lines with IC50 value of 172, againts 360 and 330 µg ml-1, respectively. After solvent partition of crude extract, the cytotoxic activity of n-hexane and ethyl acetate fractions T47D cell increased, the cytotoxic activity of n. hexane and ethyl acetate fractions T47D cell increased with  IC50  value of with IC50  43.1 and 51.9 µg ml-1, respectively, whereas IC50 value of methanol fraction was 383.0 µg ml-1. Analysis of DNA fragmentation of T47D cell showed that  both n-hexane and ethyl acetate fractions could not fragment DNA as a features of apoptosis. However, flow cytometry analysis by using annexin-V and propidium iodide staining revealed that n-hexane and ethyl acetate fractions could induce apoptosis in T47D cell. This research indicated that Turbinaria decurrens had potency to induce apoptosis in T47D cells.
Transposon Insertion Phenomenon during Cloning of a Partial Fragment Derived from Metagenomic DNA Isolated from Deep-Sea Water and Sediment of Kawio Island, North Sulawesi
Authors: Agung Mochamad Untung Kurnia , Moeis Maelita Ramdani
Published: July 2014

Transposon is well-known as mobile element found abundant both in prokaryote and eukaryote genomes. In bacteria, transposon (famous name of a transposable DNA) could jump from chromosome to plasmid and its contrary. One type of transposons in bacteria known as insertion sequence (IS), it does not contain any additional genes except a gene encoding transposase, an enzyme that correlated to transponsition activities. The finding of transposon insertion unfortunately found during cloning of a fragment derived from deep-sea metagenomic DNA in this research. In the initial, this research was aimed to clone and characterize the á-amylase encoded gene derived from metagenomic DNA isolated from deep-sea water and sediment of Kawio Island, North Sulawesi. Metagenomic DNA has been isolated from deep-sea water and sediment and by using Whole Genome Amplification (WGA) technique, the DNA it could be increased in quantities to 146,31 ng for each 1 ng of metagenomic DNA. A fragment of ~1000 bp in length was obtained by using touchdown PCR method. The presence of a transposon in this DNA fragment is proposed as a hypothesis for losing ~700 bp leaving just 310 bp cloned sequence. Analysis of sequencing result showed a highest similarity between this 310 bp partial fragment with a replication protein (Rep) encoded gene from Pseudomonas putida (Query Coverage: 88%; Max. Identity: 80%, Positive: 86%) and this protein is known to be involved in plasmid replication where transposase encoding genes known usually presence together with this gene (Rep gene) in a bacterial plasmid.
Is point-of-care accurate for indicating thrombolysis in anticoagulated patients on oral anticoagulation treatments?
Authors: Bruch Tatiana P. , Mendes Danielle C. , Pedrozo Jeff C. , Figueiredo Lívia , Nóvak Edison M. , Zétola Viviane F. , Lange Marcos C.
Published: July 2014

The use of oral anticoagulation treatment (OAT) in patients with an international normalized ratio (INR) higher than 1.7 is a contraindication to thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke. The aim of the present study is to compare the use of point-of-care (POC) coagulometers to the standard coagulation analysis (SCA) procedure of the INR as a decision-making test for use with patients taking OAT. Method: Eighty patients on chronic OAT underwent a POC and an SCA during a regular outpatient evaluation. Results: When comparing the abilities of the POC test and the SCA test to identify adequate levels for thrombolysis (≤1.7), the POC had a sensitivity of 96.6% (95%CI 88.4-99.1) and a specificity of 60.0% (95%CI 38.6-78). POC overestimated INR levels by 0.51 points compared to the SCA test. Conclusion: POC has a high sensitivity compared to the SCA test for the identification of patients within the cut-off point for thrombolysis.
Small calcified lesions suggestive of neurocysticercosis are associated with mesial temporal sclerosis
Authors: Oliveira Marcos C. B. , Martin Maria G. M. , Tsunemi Miriam H. , Vieira Gilson , Castro Luiz H. M.
Published: July 2014

Recent studies have suggested a possible relationship between temporal lobe epilepsy with mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) and neurocysticercosis (NC). We performed a case-control study to evaluate the association of NC and MTS. Method: We randomly selected patients with different epilepsy types, including: MTS, primary generalized epilepsy (PGE) and focal symptomatic epilepsy (FSE). Patients underwent a structured interview, followed by head computed tomography (CT). A neuroradiologist evaluated the scan for presence of calcified lesions suggestive of NC. CT results were matched with patients’ data. Results: More patients in the MTS group displayed calcified lesions suggestive of NC than patients in the other groups (p=0.002). On multivariate analysis, MTS was found to be an independent predictor of one or more calcified NC lesions (p=0.033). Conclusion: After controlling for confounding factors, we found an independent association between NC calcified lesions and MTS.
Effectiveness indicators of bullying intervention programs: A systematic review of the international literature
Authors: Salgado Fellipe Soares , Senra Luciana Xavier , Lourenço Lélio Moura
Published: July 2014

A systematic review was conducted in 2011, aiming to survey articles for indicators of effectiveness of intervention programs in bullying situations. A total of 165 articles were recovered, indexed in the databases: Web of Science, PsycInfo, Redalyc, Dialnet, and Eric. The analysis variables were: frequencies per journal, year, country, author, and effectiveness indicators of intervention programs in bullying situations. The "International Journal of Psychology" and "Psychological Therapy" had the highest percentage of publications (8.7%); the year 2010, the largest number of indexes (51); and Spain (33.9%) and the United States of America (23.6%) were the countries with more articles. Regarding the effectiveness indicators of bullying situation programs, it was found that 30.9% of the articles considered teacher training; 26.11% considered the need for raising awareness of the phenomenon; and 23.6% considered individual and/or collective student support to be the elements with greater impact and effectiveness in bullying situation interventions.
O Teatro Fórum como dispositivo de discussão da violência contra a mulher
Authors: Oliveira Érika Cecília Soares , Araújo Maria de Fátima
Published: July 2014

Este artigo apresenta resultados de uma pesquisa que utilizou o Teatro do(a) Oprimido(a), na modalidade do Teatro Fórum, para promover discussões e reflexões sobre a violência contra a mulher, através de um esquete sobre o tema apresentado para um grupo de catadoras(es) de material reciclável de duas cidades do interior paulista. No Teatro Fórum, os(as) espectadores(as) transformam-se em espectatores/atrizes e, pela via da ação, ajudam a encontrar uma solução para o conflito encenado. Os resultados da pesquisa sugerem que o Teatro do(a) Oprimido(a) possa ser usado como uma importante ferramenta metodológica de pesquisa. No campo específico da Psicologia, esse dispositivo teatral aparece como um instrumento alternativo para trabalhar com pesquisas participativas que envolvem diversas temáticas e questões da coletividade e que produzem rupturas em práticas e discursos hegemônicos.
Um ensaio teórico de caracterização objetiva e crítica do conceito de Administração
Authors: Nascimento Paulo Tromboni de Souza
Published: July 2014

Este ensaio busca uma caracterização objetiva e crítica da ideia de administração. Objetiva, porque baseada na resistência que a situação organizacional opõe à atuação do administrador na busca dos resultados mensuráveis, cobrados pelos interlocutores da organização. Crítica, porque, sem desprezar a subjetividade humana, não recorre ao formalismo, nem à noção de racionalidade na construção do conceito de administração. Crítica, também, porque reformula o problema de definição para um de caracterização, supera limitações de boas tentativas anteriores e deixa uma concepção aberta a novas contribuições. O método adotado foi o da análise crítica de conceitos a partir do confronto da literatura dedicada ao tema e desta com outras relevantes e seu exame via situações hipotéticas ilustrativas. A principal contribuição é conjugar as responsabilidades do administrador e seu poder sobre os recursos e interlocução como meios para alcançar resultados vitais à própria constituição e reprodução da organização. Da rede de responsabilidades sociais viriam então o poder do administrador e suas limitações.
Longevity of atraumatic restorations performed by undergraduate dentistry students
Authors: FERREIRA Luale Leão , FERREIRA-NÓBILO Naiara de Paula , GIBILINI Cristina , SOUSA Maria da Luz Rosário de
Published: July 2014

INTRODUCTION:Atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) is a simple technique that enables the treatment of caries with hand tools and without anesthesia where clinic access is lacking.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of ART conducted in the primary dentition of 4-11-year-olds in 2009 and 2010 by graduate dental students in Piracicaba, SP, and the longevity of restorations at 6 and 12 months.METHOD: Descriptive data analysis was performed. Differences between groups were assessed using the chi-squared test with a 95% confidence interval.RESULT:The success rates of ART were 51.90% at 6 months and 47% at 12 months. Class I ARTs were more successful than class II ARTs at 6 and 12 months (p < 0.001).CONCLUSION: Approximately 50% of ART performed by undergraduates students have succeeded and was significantly better for class I carious lesions at both evaluation time points.
Simulação do risco de deficit hídrico em regiões de expansão do cultivo de cana-de-açúcar no Brasil
Authors: Vianna Murilo dos Santos , Sentelhas Paulo Cesar
Published: July 2014

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o risco de deficit hídrico para a cultura da cana-de-açúcar em diferentes regiões brasileiras, com foco nas áreas de expansão. Para tanto, utilizou-se o modelo CSM-Canegro, para simular a produtividade da cana-planta de 12 meses, em 30 localidades. A partir dos valores estimados de produtividades potencial e atingível (produtividade sem irrigação), definiram-se as classes de risco de deficit hídrico de acordo com os níveis de eficiência climática, dada pela razão entre essas produtividades. O modelo simulou o efeito dos diferentes tipos de solo e datas de plantio sobre a produtividade, o que possibilitou caracterizar o risco de deficit hídrico associado à cultura. A região de maior risco é Petrolina, PE, enquanto as regiões de menor risco são as similares a Recife, PE, e Araguaína, TO.
Mycelial compatibility and aggressiveness of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum isolates from Brazil and the United States
Authors: Koga Lucimara Junko , Bowen Charles Roger , Godoy Claudia Vieira , Oliveira Maria Cristina Neves de , Hartman Glen Lee
Published: July 2014

The objective of this work was to evaluate the genetic diversity among Sclerotinia sclerotiorum isolates from Brazil and the USA, assess their aggressiveness variability, and verify the existence of an isolate-cultivar interaction. Isolate variability was determined by mycelial compatibility grouping (MCG), and isolate aggressiveness by cut-stem inoculations of soybean cultivars. Two experiments for MCGs and two for aggressiveness were conducted with two sets of isolates. The first set included nine isolates from the same soybean field in Brazil and nine from the Midwest region of the USA. The second set included 16 isolates from several regions of Brazil and one from the USA. In the first set, 18 isolates formed 12 different MCGs. In the second set, 81% of the isolates from Brazil grouped into a single MCG. No common MCGs were observed among isolates from Brazil and the USA. The isolates showed aggressiveness differences in the first set, but not in the second. Although aggressiveness differed in the first set, soybean cultivars and isolates did not interact significantly. Cultivar rank remained the same, regardless of the genetic diversity, aggressiveness difference, and region or country of origin of the isolate. Results from screening of soybean cultivars, performed by the cut-stem method in the USA, can be used as reference for researchers in Brazil.
Diversity and nitrogen fixation efficiency of rhizobia isolated from nodules of Centrolobium paraense
Authors: Baraúna Alexandre Cardoso , Silva Krisle da , Pereira Gilmara Maria Duarte , Kaminski Paulo Emílio , Perin Liamara , Zilli Jerri Edson
Published: July 2014

The objective of this work was to isolate and characterize rhizobia from nodules of Centrolobium paraense and to evaluate their symbiotic efficiency. Soil samples collected from four sites of the Roraima Cerrado, Brazil, were used to cultivate C. paraense in order to obtain nodules. Isolates (178) were obtained from 334 nodules after cultivation on medium 79. Twenty-five isolates belonging to six morphological groups were authenticated using Vigna unguiculata and they were characterized by 16S rRNA. Isolates identified as Bradyrhizobium were further characterized using rpoB gene sequencing. A greenhouse experiment was carried out with C. paraense to test the 18 authenticated isolates. Approximately 90% of the isolates grew slowly in medium 79. The 16S rRNA analysis showed that 14 authenticated isolates belong to the genus Bradyrhizobium, and rpoB indicated they constitute different groups compared to previously described species. Only four of the 11 fast-growing isolates nodulated V. unguiculata, two of which belong to Rhizobium, and two to Pleomorphomonas, which was not previously reported as a nodulating genus. The Bradyrhizobium isolates ERR 326, ERR 399, and ERR 435 had the highest symbiotic efficiency on C. paraense and showed a contribution similar to the nitrogen treatment. Centrolobium paraense is able to nodulate with different rhizobium species, some of which have not yet been described.
Aspectos fisiológicos e bioquímicos da germinação de sementes de alface em diferentes temperaturas
Authors: Catão Hugo Cesar Rodrigues Moreira , Gomes Luiz Antônio Augusto , Santos Heloisa Oliveira dos , Guimarães Renato Mendes , Fonseca Pedro Henrique Faria , Caixeta Franciele
Published: July 2014

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os padrões eletroforéticos das proteínas resistentes ao calor e a atividade da enzima endo-β-mananase durante a germinação de sementes de alface, em alta temperatura. Sementes de oito cultivares de alface foram submetidas aos testes de germinação, primeira contagem e emergência em duas temperaturas, 20 e 35ºC. Foram calculados o índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG) e o índice de velocidade de emergência (IVE). Avaliou-se, também, a expressão das proteínas resistentes ao calor e da enzima endo-β-mananase, para todos os tratamentos. Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial 2x8, com duas temperaturas e oito cultivares. A maior germinação é observada a 35ºC na cultivar Everglades, considerada termotolerante. Os padrões de proteínas resistentes ao calor em sementes de alface apresentam bandas específicas na cultivar Everglades, a 35ºC. A atividade da enzima endo-β-mananase é maior na cultivar Everglades, nessa temperatura. Essa cultivar tem potencial para utilização em programas de melhoramento de alface com vistas à tolerância a altas temperaturas durante a germinação.
First records of chewing lice (Phthiraptera: Menoponidae) in Pacific migratory shorebirds wintering in Ecuador
Authors: Haase Ben , Alava Juan José
Published: July 2014

Chewing lice were collected from small shorebirds (Charadriformes: Scolopacidae) overwintering in foraging grounds of coastal Ecuador. On 27 occasions at least one louse (3.7%) was collected from six host species. Based on external morphological characters, at least two species of chewing lice could be preliminary identified (family: Menoponidae), including Actornithophilus umbrinus(Burmeister, 1842) and Austromenopon sp. A. umbrinus was found in the Western Sandpiper (Calidris mauri), Least Sandpiper (C. minutilla), Stilt Sandpiper (C. himantopus), Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius semipalmatus) and Wilson's phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor), whileAustromenopon sp. is presumably the first record collected from the Surfbird (Aphriza virgata). These findings indicate that the distribution of these chewing lice species covers at least the regions around the equator (latitude 0°) until the Arctic in the north, but probably also includes the entire winter distribution area of the host species. This is the first study of chewing lice from Ecuador's mainland coast and more research is required to understand the host-parasite ecology and ectoparasitic infection in shorebirds stopping over the region.
Ectoparasites of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in cage farming in a hydroelectric reservoir in Brazil
Authors: Zago Aline Cristina , Franceschini Lidiane , Garcia Fabiana , Schalch Sérgio Henrique Canello , Gozi Kátia Suemi , Silva Reinaldo José da
Published: July 2014

For this study, we performed a parasitological analysis of cage-cultured Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from the Água Vermelha Reservoir, Southeastern Brazil, and verified relationships with limnological data, seasonality, and fish growth phase. From March 2010 to March 2011, sixty-three specimens of O. niloticusin three growth phases (i.e., initial, intermediate, and final) were collected. All fish specimens were infested with at least one ectoparasite species (prevalence = 100%). Five species of protozoans (Trichodina compacta, Trichodina magna, Ichthyophthirius multifiliis,Piscinoodinium pillulare, and Epistylissp.) and five species of monogenoids (Cichlidogyrus halli, Cichlidogyrus thurstonae,Cichlidogyrus sp. 1, Scutogyrus longicornis, and Gyrodactylus sp.) were observed. The abundance of Trichodina spp. and the prevalence of Epistylis sp. were higher in the dry season, and the prevalence of C. halli was higher in the rainy season. For the majority of ectoparasites found in this study, fish in the intermediate and final phases had higher parasitism rates than those in the initial phase. The data presented may help fish farmers to understand the parasite dynamics of the fish species studied in cage-farming systems.
Reassessment of the potential economic impact of cattle parasites in Brazil
Authors: Grisi Laerte , Leite Romário Cerqueira , Martins João Ricardo de Souza , Barros Antonio Thadeu Medeiros de , Andreotti Renato , Cançado Paulo Henrique Duarte , León Adalberto Angel Pérez de , Pereira Jairo Barros , Villela Humberto Silva
Published: July 2014

The profitability of livestock activities can be diminished significantly by the effects of parasites. Economic losses caused by cattle parasites in Brazil were estimated on an annual basis, considering the total number of animals at risk and the potential detrimental effects of parasitism on cattle productivity. Estimates in U.S. dollars (USD) were based on reported yield losses among untreated animals and reflected some of the effects of parasitic diseases. Relevant parasites that affect cattle productivity in Brazil, and their economic impact in USD billions include: gastrointestinal nematodes - $7.11; cattle tick (Rhipicephalus(Boophilus) microplus) - $3.24; horn fly (Haematobia irritans) - $2.56; cattle grub (Dermatobia hominis) - $0.38; New World screwworm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) - $0.34; and stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans) - $0.34. The combined annual economic loss due to internal and external parasites of cattle in Brazil considered here was estimated to be at least USD 13.96 billion. These findings are discussed in the context of methodologies and research that are required in order to improve the accuracy of these economic impact assessments. This information needs to be taken into consideration when developing sustainable policies for mitigating the impact of parasitism on the profitability of Brazilian cattle producers.
Detection of Leishmania infantum in Lutzomyia longipalpis captured in Campo Grande, MS
Authors: Cunha Rodrigo Casquero , Andreotti Renato , Cominetti Marlon Cezar , Silva Elaine Araújo
Published: July 2014

Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania (Ross, 1903) and is the focus of considerable attention in human and veterinary medicine. In the city of Campo Grande, MS, the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis is Leishmania infantum (= L. chagasi) primary vector, comprising approximately 92.9% of the local sandfly population, is Lutzomyia longipalpis. The aim of this work was to compare real-time PCR with PCR as a tool for the detection of the kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) of L. infantum in sandflies. Sandflies of this species were caught, and a total of 38 samples with 1-4 individuals in each sample were obtained; these were distributed across 13 districts and divided between seven urban areas of the city of Campo Grande, MS. Three positive samples were found by PCR and, when using real-time PCR, this was able to detect the presence of this agent in 6 of the 13 districts sampled, which were all located on the outskirts of the city, where indicates the greater enzootic potential of these regions, as they are closer to natural forest reserves. We conclude that real-time PCR can be used for epidemiological studies of L. infantum.
Lectin, hemolysin and protease inhibitors in seed fractions with ovicidal activity against Haemonchus contortus
Authors: Salles Hévila Oliveira , Braga Ana Carolina Linhares , do Nascimento Maria Thayana dos Santos Canuto , Sousa Ana Márjory Paiva , Lima Adriano Rodrigues , Vieira Luiz da Silva , Cavalcante Antônio Cézar Rocha , do Egito Antonio Silvio , Andrade Lúcia Betânia da Silva
Published: July 2014

Bioactive molecules of plant species are promising alternatives for the chemical control of gastrointestinal nematodes in ruminants. Extracts of native and exotic seed species from Brazil's semi-arid region were tested in vitro in an egg hatch assay and the bioactivity of their proteins was investigated. Each seed species was subjected to three extractions with three types of solvents. All the seeds showed ovicidal activity, which varied according to the solvents. Higher ovicidal activity was found in the molecule fractions of low molecular weight (<12 kDa) for Albizia lebbeck, Ipomoea asarifolia, Jatropha curcas, Libidibia ferrea, Moringa oleifera and Ricinus communis(P<0.05, Bonferroni test). The two fractions of Crotalaria spectabilis showed the same ovicidal activity (P>0.05, Bonferroni test). Hemagglutinating activity was detected in the fractions of C. spectabilis and M. oleifera fractions, hemolysin activity in the A. lebbeck and M. oleifera fractions, serine protease inhibitory activity in the A. lebbeck, I. asarifolia, J. curcas, M. oleifera and R. communis fractions, cysteine protease inhibitor activity in the M. oleifera fraction, and no protein activity in the L. ferrea fraction. The results of this work reveal new plant species with a potential for use in controlling nematode parasites in goats, thus opening a new field of research involving plant protein molecules with ovicidal properties.
Conserving mobile species
Authors: Runge Claire A , Martin Tara G , Possingham Hugh P , Willis Stephen G , Fuller Richard A
Published: July 2014

The distributions of many species are dynamic in space and time, and movements made by individuals range from regular and predictable migrations to erratic, resource‐driven nomadism. Conserving such mobile species is challenging; the effectiveness of a conservation action taken at one site depends on the condition of other sites that may be geographically and politically distant (thousands of kilometers away or in another jurisdiction, for example). Recent work has shown that even simple and predictable linkages among sites caused by “to‐and‐fro” migration can make migratory species especially vulnerable to habitat loss, and substantially affect the results of conservation prioritizations. Species characterized by more erratic or nomadic movements are very difficult to protect through current conservation planning techniques, which typically view species distributions as static. However, collaborations between migration ecologists, conservation planners, and mathematical ecologists are paving the way for improvements in conservation planning for mobile species.
Community‐level net spillover of natural enemies from managed to natural forest
Authors: Frost Carol M. , Didham Raphael K. , Rand Tatyana A. , Peralta Guadalupe , Tylianakis Jason M.
Published: July 2014

Edge effects in fragmented natural habitats may be exacerbated by intensive land use in the surrounding landscape. Given that most managed systems have higher primary productivity than adjacent natural systems, theory suggests that bottom‐up subsidized consumers are likely to spill over from managed to natural habitats. Furthermore, the magnitude of spillover is likely to differ between generalist and specialist consumers, because of differences in their ability to use the full spectrum of resources. However, it is unknown whether there is indeed asymmetrical spillover of consumers between managed and natural habitats, and whether this is related to resource abundance or the trophic specialization of the consumer. We used flight intercept traps to measure spillover of generalist predators (Vespula wasps, Vespidae) and more specialist predators (106 species of parasitoids, Ichneumonidae and Braconidae) across habitat edges between native New Zealand forest and exotic plantation forest over a summer season. We found net spillover of both generalist and specialist predators from plantation to native forest, and that this was greater for generalists. To test whether natural enemy spillover from managed habitats was related to prey (caterpillar) abundance (i.e., whether it was bottom‐up productivity driven, due to increased primary productivity), we conducted a large‐scale herbivore reduction experiment at half of our plantation sites, by helicopter spraying caterpillar‐specific insecticide over 2.5 ha per site. We monitored bidirectional natural enemy spillover and found that herbivore reduction reduced generalist but not specialist predator spillover. Trophic generalists may benefit disproportionately from high resource productivity in a habitat, and their cross‐habitat spillover effects on natural food webs may be an important source of consumer pressure in mosaic landscapes.
Community Characteristics and Mortality: The Relative Strength of Association of Different Community Characteristics
Authors: Chan Kitty S. , Roberts Eric , McCleary Rachael , Buttorff Christine , Gaskin Darrell J.
Published: July 2014

Objectives. We compared the strength of association between average 5-year county-level mortality rates and area-level measures, including air quality, sociodemographic characteristics, violence, and economic distress.

Methods. We obtained mortality data from the National Vital Statistics System and linked it to socioeconomic and demographic data from the Census Bureau, air quality data, violent crime statistics, and loan delinquency data. We modeled 5-year average mortality rates (1998–2002) for all-cause, cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory diseases as a function of county-level characteristics using ordinary least squares regression models. We limited analyses to counties with population of 100 000 or greater (n = 458).

Results. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, particularly the percentage older than 65 years and near poor, were top predictors of all-cause and condition-specific mortality, as were a high concentration of construction and service workers. We found weaker associations for air quality, mortgage delinquencies, and violent crimes. Protective characteristics included the percentage of Hispanics, Asians, and married residents.

Conclusions. Multiple factors influence county-level mortality. Although county demographic and socioeconomic characteristics are important, there are independent, although weaker, associations of other environmental characteristics. Future studies should investigate these factors to better understand community mortality risk.
Health Preemption Behind Closed Doors: Trade Agreements and Fast-Track Authority
Authors: Crosbie Eric , Gonzalez Mariaelena , Glantz Stanton A.
Published: July 2014

Noncommunicable diseases result from consuming unhealthy products, including tobacco, which are promoted by transnational corporations. The tobacco industry uses preemption to block or reverse tobacco control policies. Preemption removes authority from jurisdictions where tobacco companies’ influence is weak and transfers it to jurisdictions where they have an advantage.

International trade agreements relocate decisions about tobacco control policy to venues where there is little opportunity for public scrutiny, participation, and debate. Tobacco companies are using these agreements to preempt domestic authority over tobacco policy. Other transnational corporations that profit by promoting unhealthy foods could do the same.

“Fast-track authority,” in which Congress cedes ongoing oversight authority to the President, further distances the public from the debate. With international agreements binding governments to prioritize trade over health, transparency and public oversight of the trade negotiation process is necessary to safeguard public health interests.
Potential Effects of California’s New Vaccine Exemption Law on the Prevalence and Clustering of Exemptions
Authors: Jones Malia , Buttenheim Alison
Published: July 2014

Exemptions from childhood immunizations required for school entry have continued to increase among California kindergartners, and exemptions show spatial clustering within the state. A 2014 change in California’s school-entry vaccine exemption law requires parents filing for an exemption to submit signed documents from a health care provider. However, the evidence presented here suggests that the policy change will probably not be sufficient to reverse the growing trend in vaccine refusals.
Mapping Flowering Time Gene Homologs in Soybean and Their Association with Maturity (E) Loci
Authors: Tasma I. M. , Shoemaker R. C.
Published: July 2014

Time of flowering is a quantitatively inherited character of agronomic importance in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. The genetics of flowering time has been extensively studied in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. The first objective of this study was to map onto the soybean genetic map orthologous genes known to be involved in photoperiod recognition and time of flowering in A. thaliana and compare their location with previously mapped flowering time quantitative trait loci (QTL). The second objective was to associate the mapped homologs with maturity (E) loci by means of near isogenic lines (NILs). Three single‐cross soybean populations, consisting of two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations and one F2 population, were used in the mapping study. One RIL population, IX132, was developed by crossing PI 317.336 and ‘Corsoy’; the second, IX136, by crossing PI 317.334B and Corsoy. Both plant introductions have been reported to be photoperiod‐insensitive while the Corsoy parent has been reported to be photoperiod‐sensitive. The RIL populations were previously used to map QTL for flowering time, maturity, and photoperiod‐insensitivity in soybean. The F2 population was developed from an interspecific cross between G max (breeding line A81‐356022) and G. soja (PI 468.916). Eighteen soybean cDNA clones, identified by BLAST to have high similarities with 18 previously cloned A thaliana flowering time genes, were used as probes in this study. Ten of the 18 cDNA clones were mapped. The cDNAs were mapped onto linkage groups (LGs) A2 (CRY2), B1 and H (COL1), A1 and B2 (PHYA), C1 (DET1 and LD), D2 (AP2), E and K (PHYB), F (COL2), L (FCA), and Q (CCA1). None of the cDNAs were directly associated with previously mapped QTL for flowering time. Forty‐one NILs and two recurrent parents (RPs) were used in the association study. Analyses of these candidate genes using contrasting NILs showed that the FCA homolog was associated with maturity locus E3 That FCA is a strong gene candidate for maturity locus E3 is further supported by map position and phenotypic data. Analyses of NILs suggest that the soybean homolog PHYB may be associated with maturity locus E1 However, current data show they mapped in different LGs.
Identification of Western Wheatgrass Cultivars and Accessions by DNA Fingerprinting and Geographic Provenance
Authors: Larson S. R. , Palazzo A. J. , Jensen K. B.
Published: July 2014

Western wheatgrass [Pascopryum smithii (Rydb.) Löve (= Agropyon smithii Rydb)] is an allogamous North American range grass cultivated for seed production, hay, low‐maintenance turf, and soil stabilization. The USDA maintains western wheatgrass cultivars, synthetic multiple‐origin germplasms, and source‐identified single‐origin accessions in the National Plant Germplasm System. The objective of this study was to test similarity of amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) genotypes among individual plants classified by accession and geographic provenance, and compare rates of DNA variation between single‐origin and multiple‐origin germplasm. Individual plants from 36 of 39 source‐identified single‐origin germplasm sources group strictly by accession, on the basis of the average proportion of shared DNA fragments between individual genotypes. Conversely, individual plant genotypes from three of the four synthetic multiple‐origin accessions did not cluster by accession and displayed higher rates of DNA variation than did single‐origin accessions. Although different accessions of the same cultivar generally group together, off‐types were detected in six of the nine cultivar accessions. Pairwise comparisons of interpopulation genetic distances (φst) among 39 single‐origin accessions were correlated with geographical distances among the original collecting sites (r = 0.66). Genotypes representing these accessions form three natural groups on the basis of φst that correspond to three geographic regions of the USA: northern Great Plains, northern Rocky Mountains, and southern Rocky Mountains. Therefore, georaphically significant sources of DNA variation were detected and maintained within and among these ex situ germplasm sources. These results document genetic identity and diversity in the USDA western wheatgrass germplasm collection and support the premise that geographic provenance contributes to germplasm integrity.
Impact of Transgenic Genotypes and Subdivision on Diversity within Elite North American Soybean Germplasm
Authors: Sneller Clay H.
Published: July 2014

There are several recent trends in North American soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] breeding that call for a new evaluation of the pedigree structure of this population. These are the introduction of Roundup Ready (RR) soybean and restricted exchange of germplasm between breeding programs. The objectives of this study were to assess the genetic structure of the current elite North American soybean population and the current and potential affect of RR soybean and crossing restrictions on this population. This study used coefficient of parentage (CP) analysis of 312 current RR and conventional lines. The RR trait was initially backcrossed into elite lines from a total of 30 different recurrent parents. Many of the intermediates of the backcrossing were also crossed to other elite lines and it is from such crosses that many of the current RR lines derive. Only 1% of the total variation in CP among lines from the northern or southern regions was accounted for by differences between conventional lines, RR lines, and the recurrent parents used to initiate RR breeding programs. The advent of RR cultivars has had little impact on diversity because of the wide use of this technology by many programs and its incorporation into many lines. In contrast, 19% of the variation in CP among northern lines, and 14% among southern lines, was due to difference between lines from different companies and institutions. Diversity was limited among elite lines from some companies. The restricted diversity within some companies coupled with limited exchange of germplasm could affect the soybean industry if marketplace shifts favor one company. Public programs can work to ensure and expand diversity.
Molecular and Historical Aspects of Corn Belt Dent Diversity
Authors: Labate Joanne A. , Lamkey Kendall R. , Mitchell Sharon E. , Kresovich Stephen , Sullivan Hillary , Smith John S. C.
Published: July 2014

Tens‐of‐thousands of open‐pollinated cultivars of corn (Zea mays L.) are being maintained in germplasm banks. Knowledge of the amount and distribution of genetic variation within and among accessions can aid end users in choosing among them. We estimated molecular genetic variation and looked for influences of pedigree, adaptation, and migration in the genetic makeup of conserved Corn‐Belt Dent‐related germplasm. Plants sampled from 57 accessions representing Corn‐Belt Dents, Northern Flints, Southern Dents, plus 12 public inbreds, were genotyped at 20 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci. For 47 of the accessions, between 5 and 23 plants per accession were genotyped (mean = 9.3). Mean number of alleles per locus was 6.5 overall, 3.17 within accessions, and 3.20 within pooled inbreds. Mean gene diversity was 0.53 within accessions and 0.61 within pooled inbreds. Open‐pollinated accessions showed a tendency toward inbreeding (FIS = 0.09), and 85% of genetic variation was shared among them. A Fitch‐Margoliash tree strongly supported the distinctiveness of flint from dent germplasm but did not otherwise reveal evidence of genetic structure. Mantel tests revealed significant correlations between genetic distance and geographical (r = 0.54, P = 0.04) or maturity zone (r = 0.33, P = 0.03) distance only if flint germplasm was included in the analyses. A significant correlation (r = 0.76, P < 0.01) was found between days to pollen shed and maturity zone of accession origin. Pedigree, rather than migration or selection, has most influenced the genetic structure of the extant representatives of the open‐pollinated cultivars at these SSR loci.
Influence of Genotype, Environment, and Nitrogen Management on Spring Wheat Quality
Authors: Souza E. J. , Martin J. M. , Guttieri M. J. , O'Brien K. M. , Habernicht D. K. , Lanning S. P. , McLean R. , Carlson G. R. , Talbert L. E.
Published: July 2014

Bread baking is the primary end‐use criterion used to select hard spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes for the northwestern USA, yet the use of hard wheats has expanded beyond traditional pan breads to include Asian noodles. We assessed the relative influence of genotype, N management, and location on quality characteristics of a set of spring wheat cultivars that provided a range in gluten strength and acceptability for bread and Asian noodle quality, and determined whether grain characteristics could predict bread and/or noodle market suitability. Seven spring cultivars were grown at four locations across 3 yr with two levels of N fertilizer in irrigated and moisture‐limited conditions. Bread quality, alkaline noodle color, and Chinese noodle color and texture were assessed on grain samples. Cultivar was the most important determinant of bread and noodle quality traits in both the irrigated and moisture‐limited environments. Nitrogen level influenced only Chinese noodle color in irrigated environments, but impacted test weight, flour ash, loaf volume, and bake absorption in moisture‐limited environments. Responses to N management and location were usually not cultivar specific, as interactions were not important relative to main effects of cultivar and location. Grain protein had more value than test weight or grain hardness in predicting bread and noodle quality, and was most useful in predicting loaf volume and Chinese noodle color characteristics. Cultivar selection is critical for achieving a desired end use, with location effects being of secondary importance. Nitrogen management for a particular end use will be difficult, with N level being much less important than cultivar selection and location. Grain protein may be the best predictor of the suitability of a particular cultivar produced in a specific year for alternative end‐use possibilities, with high‐protein grain most suitable for bread production and low‐protein, high‐quality grain more suitable for noodle production.
Soybean N2 Fixation Estimates, Ureide Concentration, and Yield Responses to Drought
Authors: Purcell Larry C. , Serraj Rachid , Sinclair Thomas R. , De A.
Published: July 2014

Increasing N2 fixation tolerance to drought has been hindered by the labor and costs of quantifying N2 fixation using 15N methodologies. The relative abundance of ureides (RAU) in plant tissues has been used for estimating N2 fixation in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] grown under well‐watered conditions, but it has not been evaluated for drought conditions. The present research evaluated the response of N accumulation to N fertilization, the ability of the RAU technique to predict N2 fixation under drought conditions, and the response of yield to N fertilization under well‐watered and drought conditions. Under drought, shoot N accumulation rate during vegetative growth approximately doubled as the amount of N fertilizer was increased from 10 to 200 kg N ha−1, indicating a greater sensitivity of N2 fixation to drought than uptake and assimilation of inorganic N. Under well‐watered conditions, the relationship between estimates of N2 fixation made by 15N‐dilution and RAU agreed within 15% of published reports. Under drought conditions, however, this relationship was greatly different (13 to 43%) from published reports. Fertilization with inorganic N in 1 yr increased grain yield 15 to 25% for the drought treatment and 12 to 15% for the well‐watered treatment. In a second year, N fertilization increased yield of both drought and well‐watered treatments approximately 9%. This research indicates that the RAU technique for estimating N2 fixation under drought conditions may be invalid without further refinement, that N2 fixation is more sensitive to drought than the uptake and assimilation of inorganic soil N, and that increasing the tolerance of N2 fixation to drought would likely result in yield increases.
Seasonal Nitrogen Concentration, Uptake, and Partitioning Pattern of Irrigated Acala and Pima Cotton as Influenced by Nitrogen Fertility Level
Authors: Fritschi Felix B. , Roberts Bruce A. , Travis Robert L. , Rains D. William , Hutmacher Robert B.
Published: July 2014

A better understanding of plant nitrogen (N) dynamics in modern varieties of Acala (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and Pima (G. barbadense L.) cotton grown with prevailing management practices may help in the design of N management strategies that optimize N utilization and lint yields. The response of Acala cotton to different N fertility levels was evaluated on a Panoche clay loam (fine‐loamy, mixed (calcareous), thermic Typic Torriorthents) and on a Wasco sandy loam (coarse‐loamy, mixed, nonacid, thermic Typic Torriorthents). Nitrogen treatments of 56, 112, 168, and 224 kg N ha−1 and check plots were established in 1998, 1999, and 2000. Plant shoots were collected and fractionated into different components at several growth stages for determination of N concentration. Both Acala and Pima tissue N concentrations were strongly affected by developmental stage and N treatment. Acala tissue N concentrations differed significantly between soil types. Maximum N uptake rates of both Pima and Acala occurred between early square and early bloom. Physiological N use efficiency averaged 11.4 kg lint kg−1 plant N for Acala grown on the Panoche clay loam and 9.4 kg kg−1 on the Wasco sandy loam, and 13.2 kg kg−1 for Pima grown on Panoche clay loam. Leaf N concentration as an in‐season indicator of N status and estimates of seasonal soil N mineralization potential may be useful in optimizing cotton N management.
Enhancing Germination of Eastern Gamagrass Seed with Stratification and Gibberellic Acid
Authors: Rogis Carla , Gibson Lance R. , Knapp Allen D. , Horton Robert
Published: July 2014

Eastern gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides, L.), a warm season, perennial grass with great potential for forage and conservation uses, has a high level of seed dormancy, making establishment difficult. Stratification at 4°C for 6 wk is a standard method for providing germinable gamagrass seed. Earlier research showed that gibberellic acid (GA3) increased germinability of gamagrass caryopses removed from the cupule, but was less effective when the caryopses remained in the cupule. We hypothesized that gibberellic acid together with stratification may increase germination of seed above levels obtained by stratification or gibberellic acid alone. This study assessed the germination of three seed lots of eastern gamagrass to 1 mM GA3 and exposure to 4°C for 0 to 7 wk. Seed soaked in GA3 solution averaged 43% germination during the first 3 wk of stratification and was significantly higher than the germination of water soaked seed averaging 35% germination. Seed reached peak germinability after 4 wk of stratification and remained at this level during the final weeks. After 4 wk of stratification, germination levels of GA3 and water treated seed were similar at 64 to 70%. The most pronounced effect of GA3 was more rapid germination of seed in all of the stratification durations tested.