bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Exercise
Authors: Gelberg H. B.
Published: February 2013

A 10-year-old, neutered, male, domestic short-haired cat had numerous, small, firm, round, red, nonpruritic, nonpainful, dermal nodules 5–16 mm in diameter that ruptured within 48 hours of their appearance and subsequently crusted over. The masses were located in all regions of the body. One mass was excised from the dorsal right carpus and examined histologically, and 2 masses from the interscapular region were cultured for bacteria. The excised dermal mass from the carpus effaced normal dermal architecture, pressed tightly against the epidermis, and was composed of tightly packed round to polyhedral cells that extended to the deep margins of the sections. The overlying epidermis was extensively ulcerated and vesiculated with intraepidermal nests of cells identical to those in the dermis. There was marked anisokaryosis in the deeper regions of the mass with numerous multinucleated cells and cells with giant bizarre nuclei. The histological appearance and CD18 immunocytochemical staining of this mass are consistent with a diagnosis of feline progressive epitheliotropic dendritic cell histiocytosis.
The Invention and Institutionalization of Volunteer Centers
Authors: Lorentzen Håkon , Henriksen Lars Skov
Published: February 2013

This article presents and explains differences in governmental implementation strategies of volunteer centers in Norway and Denmark. In the first part, we describe the emergence of centers, focusing on shifting policies and governmental initiatives. The second part aims at explaining the observed variations. First, we found that the functions of the centers were strongly affected by centralistic trends in Danish social policy in contrast to a broader acceptance of local welfare variations in Norway. Second, we found that Danish centers managed to establish a national umbrella organization, while the Norwegian centers lacked a national coordinating unit. Third, an independent legal form in which local associations are members may have helped Danish centers bring about a sense of local ownership. In Norway, volunteer centers had weak ties to other local voluntary associations and were at times perceived as a threat to them.
Maintaining Dominican identity in the Dominican Republic: Forging a baseball landscape in Villa Ascension
Authors: Wise Nicholas
Published: February 2013

Much research concerning the Dominican Republic and baseball focuses on globalization. In acknowledging the importance of such research, this study contributes a particular understanding of sport in a rural heterogeneous community, by addressing landscape and place identity. Villa Ascension and Caraballo are adjacent rural communities in the northern Puerto Plata Province. Currently there exists one usable sports space, designated as a football field, where Haitian residents practice football. Although this landscape is representative of Haitian identity, this designation transcends common sporting landscapes in the Dominican Republic, where Haitians typically use baseball fields to recreate. Dominicans also use the football field for baseball, and have forged a baseball landscape in an attempt to maintain the presence of their sporting culture. Conceptual social-geographical perspectives of sense of place and staging/performing identity in the landscape are reinforced through participant observations and interviews/conversations with local Haitian and Dominican participants to support critical understandings in this particular locale.
High-cycle fatigue threshold behaviors in notched plates
Authors: Yanase K , Shojima K , Ogata C
Published: February 2013

This article investigates the threshold behavior of fatigue crack emanating from an elliptical hole. The theoretical framework accounts for the presence of plastic zone ahead of the crack tip and the crack-closure development. To predict the threshold behavior, both the crack deriving force and the resisting force are considered. The crack deriving force (i.e. applied stress intensity factor) is calculated based on the plane elasticity theory and linear-elastic fracture mechanics. Based on the proposed computational framework, the fatigue limit, the length of non-propagating crack and the notch-size effect are simulated in a systematic manner. By conducting a series of comparisons between the theoretical predictions and the available experimental data, the predictive capability of the proposed method is examined and discussed.
The dark side of trust: When trust becomes a ‘poisoned chalice’
Authors: Skinner Denise , Dietz Graham , Weibel Antoinette
Published: February 2013

Trust is typically portrayed as beneficial to all concerned; something which is inherently good. In this article we focus on interpersonal trust and argue that, while there are undoubted benefits, trust can also be problematic; there are circumstances in which it can become a ‘poisoned chalice’ for one or other of the parties involved. We question whether the potential for negative experiences in relation to trust has been fully explored and argue that its true dark side lies within the dynamics of the trust relationship. From this stance we use the social exchange and gift giving literatures to re-appraise trust in a way that highlights the importance of expectation and intent and demonstrates the circumstances in which trust may not be beneficial for one of the parties involved. We conclude with a research agenda which we believe will further develop our understanding of this complex human interaction.
Gender preference and awareness regarding sex determination among antenatal mothers attending a medical college of eastern India
Authors: Yasmin Shamima , Mukherjee Anindya , Manna Nirmalya , Baur Baijayanti , Datta Mousumi , Sau Manabendra , Roy Manidipa , Dasgupta Samir
Published: February 2013

Aim: There are many women “missing” due to an unfavourable sex ratio in India,, which has strong patriarchal norms and a preference for sons. Female gender discrimination has been reported in health care, nutrition, education, and resource allocation due to man-made norms, religious beliefs, and recently by ultrasonography resulting in lowered sex ratio. Methods: The present study attempts to find out the level of awareness regarding sex determination and to explore preference of gender and factors associated among antenatal mothers attending a medical college in eastern India. Interviews were done by predesigned pretested proforma over 6 months. The data were analysed by SPSS 16.0 software for proportions with chi-squared tests and binary logistic regression analysis. Results: Most women who were multigravida did not know about contraceptives; 1.8% of mothers knew the sex of the fetus in present pregnancy while another 34.7% expressed willingness; 13.6% knew of a place which could tell sex of the fetus beforehand; 55.6% expressed their preference of sex of the baby for present pregnancy while 50.6% of their husbands had gender preference. Gender preference was significantly high in subjects with: lower socioeconomic status ( p=0.011); lower level of education of mother ( p=0.047) and husband ( p=0.0001); multigravida ( p=0.002); presence of living children ( p=0.0001); and husband having preference of sex of baby ( p=0.0001). Conclusions: Parental education, socioeconomic background, and number of living issues were the main predictors for gender preference. Awareness regarding gender preference and related law and parental counselling to avoid gender preference with adoption of small family norm is recommended.
‘Losing my religion’: Managing identity in a post-Jehovah’s Witness world
Authors: Hookway Nicholas Samuel , Habibis Daphne
Published: February 2013

What is it like to be socialised into the self-contained Christian fundamentalist world of the Jehovah’s Witnesses and to move towards disinheriting that tradition during adolescence? This article considers this question by looking at how a group of young, Australian Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs), who were born into the religion, make the journey from membership to dissent. The interview data suggest that for these young respondents the roots of disaffiliation lie in disagreement with specific JW practices and the freedom and hedonistic attractions offered by the secular world. It shows how disaffiliation was staged as a dynamic struggle for self as the ex-JWs swung between the secular attractions of freedom and hedonism, and the certainty and comfort of the religious community. Further, the article suggests that parental socialisation and the differences between those born into such movements and converts are important factors in understanding reasons for disaffiliation.
Arginine supplementation for improving maternal and neonatal outcomes in hypertensive disorder of pregnancy: A systematic review
Authors: Gui Shunping , Jia Jin , Niu Xiaoyu , Bai Yi , Zou Heng , Deng Juelin , Zhou Rong
Published: February 2013

Objective:

This meta-analysis was performed to assess whether arginine supplementation could reduce preeclampsia or eclampsia incidence and improve the outcomes of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, and to evaluate the safety of L-arginine supplementation.

Methods:

The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (2011), MEDLINE (1980–2011) and Embase (1980–2011) were searched through July 2012, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing intravenous and/or oral L-arginine supplementation with placebo, or RCTs comparing any treatment with arginine were included. Qualities of RCTs were assessed with the Jadad method. Meta-analyses were performed with fixed- or random-effects models according to heterogeneity of studies.

Results:

Data from seven RCTs involving 916 patients were enrolled. The meta-analysis showed L-arginine was more effective in reducing preeclampsia or eclampsia incidence (odds ratio 0.384; 95% confidence limits 0.25, 0.58) than the placebo; meanwhile, L-arginine could prolong pregnancy weeks (MD 11.54; 95% CL 5.23, 17.85) than placebo; and its effect on blood pressure was unbalanced (diastolic pressure (MD 4.86; 95% CL 4.19, 5.52) and systolic pressure (MD 3.20; 95% CL −1.54, 7.94)) while the difference in increased neonatal weight (MD 256.24; 95% CL −28.66, 541.13) was not clear. Three of these studies reported some adverse effects, and no teratogenic or lethal effects were noted.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates L-arginine supplementation is superior to placebo in lowering diastolic pressure and prolonging pregnancy in patients with gestational hypertension with or without proteinuria, but the effect on lowering systolic pressure and increasing neonatal weight was not statistically significant.
Painful, palpable and pathological: anomalous flexor digitorum superficialis brevis in the palm, comparative anatomical context, and an updated classification of anomalies of the flexor digitorum superficialis
Authors: Bhat W. , Davis C. R. , Akali A. , Kay S. P. , Roberts A. M.
Published: February 2013

Anomalies of the flexor digitorum superficialis are rare and can present a diagnostic dilemma. Patients present with a painful or palpable mass, or symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. This review article summarizes previously reported anomalies of the flexor digitorum superficialis, reports a further case, and proposes a new classification.
Alemtuzumab in multiple sclerosis: latest evidence and clinical prospects
Authors: Kousin-Ezewu Onajite , Coles Alasdair
Published: February 2013

Alemtuzumab was first used in multiple sclerosis in 1991. It is a monoclonal antibody which is directed against CD52, a protein of unknown function on lymphocytes. Alemtuzumab causes a lymphopenia, following which homeostatic reconstitution leads to prolonged alteration of the immune repertoire. This reduces the risk of relapse and disability accumulation in multiple sclerosis; it is the only drug to show superiority over interferon β-1a in disability outcomes in a monotherapy phase III trial. It should be used with a parallel risk management programme to identify the principal adverse effects of alemtuzumab, especially secondary autoimmunity months or years later, mainly against the thyroid but also immune thrombocytopenia. This review charts the development of alemtuzumab as a drug for multiple sclerosis and summarizes the latest clinical trial data.
The human NPM1 mutation A perturbs megakaryopoiesis in a conditional mouse model
Authors: Sportoletti Paolo , Varasano Emanuela , Rossi Roberta , Bereshchenko Oxana , Cecchini Debora , Gionfriddo Ilaria , Bolli Niccolò , Tiacci Enrico , Intermesoli Tamara , Zanghì Pamela , Masciulli Arianna , Martelli Maria Paola , Falzetti Franca , Martelli Massimo F. , Falini Brunangelo
Published: February 2013

Key Points

The NPM1 mutant affects megakaryocytic development in mice. NPMc+ mutant mice mimic some features of human NPM1-mutated AML.
Honokiol blocks store operated calcium entry in CHO cells expressing the M3 muscarinic receptor: honokiol and muscarinic signaling
Authors: Wang Hsiu-Jen , Martin Alexis G , Chao Po-Kuan , Reichard Rhett A , Martin Adam L , Huang Yue-wern , Chan Ming-Huan , Aronstam Robert S
Published: February 2013

Background

Honokiol, a cell-permeable phenolic compound derived from the bark of magnolia trees and present in Asian herbal teas, has a unique array of pharmacological actions, including the inhibition of multiple autonomic responses. We determined the effects of honokiol on calcium signaling underlying transmission mediated by human M3 muscarinic receptors expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Receptor binding was determined in radiolabelled ligand binding assays; changes in intracellular calcium concentrations were determined using a fura-2 ratiometric imaging protocol; cytotoxicity was determined using a dye reduction assay.

Results

Honokiol had a potent (EC50 ≈ 5 μmol/l) inhibitory effect on store operated calcium entry (SOCE) that was induced by activation of the M3 receptors. This effect was specific, rapid and partially reversible, and was seen at concentrations not associated with cytotoxicity, inhibition of IP3 receptor-mediated calcium release, depletion of ER calcium stores, or disruption of M3 receptor binding.

Conclusions

It is likely that an inhibition of SOCE contributes to honokiol disruption of parasympathetic motor functions, as well as many of its beneficial pharmacological properties.
Morus alba and active compound oxyresveratrol exert anti-inflammatory activity via inhibition of leukocyte migration involving MEK/ERK signaling
Authors: Chen Yi-Ching , Tien Yin-Jing , Chen Chun-Houh , Beltran Francesca N , Amor Evangeline C , Wang Ran-Juh , Wu Den-Jen , Mettling Clément , Lin Yea-Lih , Yang Wen-Chin
Published: February 2013

Background

Morus alba has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammatory diseases; however, the scientific basis for such usage and the mechanism of action are not well understood. This study investigated the action of M. alba on leukocyte migration, one key step in inflammation.

Methods

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and cluster analyses of supercritical CO2 extracts of three Morus species were performed for chemotaxonomy-aided plant authentication. Phytochemistry and CXCR4-mediated chemotaxis assays were used to characterize the chemical and biological properties of M. alba and its active compound, oxyresveratrol. fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and Western blot analyses were conducted to determine the mode of action of oxyresveratrol.

Results

Chemotaxonomy was used to help authenticate M. alba. Chemotaxis-based isolation identified oxyresveratrol as an active component in M. alba. Phytochemical and chemotaxis assays showed that the crude extract, ethyl acetate fraction and oxyresveratrol from M. alba suppressed cell migration of Jurkat T cells in response to SDF-1. Mechanistic study indicated that oxyresveratrol diminished CXCR4-mediated T-cell migration via inhibition of the MEK/ERK signaling cascade.

Conclusions

A combination of GC-MS and cluster analysis techniques are applicable for authentication of the Morus species. Anti-inflammatory benefits of M. alba and its active compound, oxyresveratrol, may involve the inhibition of CXCR-4-mediated chemotaxis and MEK/ERK pathway in T and other immune cells.
EGCG induces human mesothelioma cell death by inducing reactive oxygen species and autophagy
Authors: Satoh Motohiko , Takemura Yukitoshi , Hamada Hironobu , Sekido Yoshitaka , Kubota Shunichiro
Published: February 2013

Malignant mesothelioma is an asbestos-related fatal disease with no effective cure. We studied whether a green tea polyphenol, epigallocathechin-3-gallate (EGCG), could induce cell death in five human mesothelioma cell lines. We found that EGCG induced apoptosis in all five mesothelioma cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. We further clarified the cell killing mechanism. EGCG induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), and impaired the mitochondrial membrane potential. As treatment with ROS scavengers, catalase and tempol, significantly inhibited the EGCG-induced apoptosis, ROS is considered to be responsible for the EGCG-induced apoptosis. Further, we found that EGCG induced autophagy, and that when autophagy was suppressed by chloroquine, the EGCG-induced cell death was enhanced. Taken together, these results suggest that EGCG has a great potential for the treatment of mesothelioma by inducing apoptosis and autophagy.
Luminescent Complexes Containing Halogeno-bridged Dicopper(I) Unit {Cu2(µ-X)2} (X = Cl, Br, and I)
Authors: Tsuge Kiyoshi
Published: February 2013

Luminescent copper(I) complexes have been extensively studied in recent decades with various ligands showing their rich photophysical and photochemical properties. In this contribution, the luminescent halogeno copper(I) complexes, especially those with a halogeno-bridged dicopper(I) unit {Cu2(µ-X)2}, one of the basic, common structural motifs among the halogeno copper(I) family, are described from the view point of influences of coligands upon their luminescent properties. Discussions are extended to complexes with the halogeno-bridged tetranuclear unit {Cu4(µ3-X)4}, being another common structural motif, to examine the dominant emissive excited states in halogeno copper(I) complexes.
Wide-range Modulation of Dynamic Modulus and Loss Tangent for Magnetic Elastomers Containing Submilimeter Magnetic Particles
Authors: Chiba Naoya , Yamamoto Ken , Hojo Tsukasa , Kawai Mika , Mitsumata Tetsu
Published: February 2013

Magnetic elastomers containing magnetic particles with a diameter of 235 µm have been synthesized, and the magnetic response of the elasticity was investigated. The storage modulus for the magnetic elastomer with a volume fraction of 0.18 increased from 12.5 kPa to 2.43 MPa by applying a magnetic field of 500 mT. The relative change in the storage modulus was 194 times, which is higher than that of magnetic elastomers containing small iron particles (ca. 58 times at 2.5 µm). It was also revealed that the magnetic elastomer exhibited wide-range modulation of loss tangent by varying magnetic fields.
ASTM Standard Terminology Related to Biorationals
Authors: Rea Lizbeth , White Michael C.
Published: February 2013

Changes in consumer preference about how food is produced are driving increased development and marketing of nontraditional pest control and nutritional products. However, the use of undefined terms such as “biorational,” “biostimulant,” “bioyield enhancer,” “bioplant health promoter,” and “biosoil conditioner” to market these products has introduced confusion in the marketplace. An ASTM E-35.22 Subcommittee Task Group has been formed to develop standard definitions in order to eliminate the use of confusing and inconsistent terminology for these types of products.
Regulation of Ribosome Biogenesis by Nucleostemin 3 Promotes Local and Systemic Growth in Drosophila
Authors: Hartl Tom A , Ni Julie , Cao Jian , Suyama Kaye L , Patchett Stephanie , Bussiere Cyril , Gui Dan Yi , Tang Sheng , Kaplan Daniel D , Fish Matthew , Johnson Arlen W , Scott Matthew P
Published: February 2013

Nucleostemin 3 (NS3) is an evolutionarily conserved protein with profound roles in cell growth and viability. Here we analyze cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous growth control roles of NS3 in Drosophila and demonstrate its GTPase activity using genetic and biochemical assays. Two null alleles of ns3, and RNAi, demonstrate the necessity of NS3 for cell autonomous growth. A hypomorphic allele highlights the hypersensitivity of neurons to lowered NS3 function. We propose that NS3 is the functional ortholog of yeast and human Lsg1, which promotes release of the nuclear export adapter from the large ribosomal subunit. Release of the adapter and its recycling to the nucleus are essential for sustained production of ribosomes. The ribosome biogenesis role of NS3 is essential for proper rates of translation in all tissues and is necessary for functions of growth-promoting neurons.
Armazenamento refrigerado de abacates 'Hass'
Authors: Donadon Juliana Rodrigues , Durigan José Fernando , Morgado Cristiane Maria Ascari , Santos Leandra Oliveira
Published: February 2013

Este trabalho objetivou determinar a ocorrência de injúria pelo frio em abacates 'Hass'. Na primeira Etapa, os abacates foram armazenados a 5ºC (77% UR), 10ºC (79% UR) e 15ºC (79% UR) por até 21 dias. Aos 7; 14 e 21dias de armazenamento, um lote com 36 frutos foi levado ao ambiente (22°C e 77% UR) para amadurecimento. Testou-se também o armazenamento a 2°C (74% UR) e 4°C (77% UR) por até 45 dias, sendo que aos 15; 30 e 45 dias, um lote com a mesma quantidade de frutos foi levado ao ambiente, mantido a 22°C e 77% UR. Frutos armazenados ao ambiente, desde o início, foram considerados testemunha. Avalaram-se a aparência e a luminosidade da polpa. Os frutos armazenados a 10°C e 15°C não apresentaram sintomas de injúrias pelo frio, que foram observados nos frutos armazenados a 2°C, por períodos superiores a 15 dias, e nos mantidos a 4°C, por 30 dias. Quando levados ao ambiente, os frutos armazenados a 2°C conservaram aparência aceitável para o consumo (nota = 3) por até10 dias, e os armazenados a 4°C, por até 12 dias. Na segunda Etapa, analisaram-se a intensidade respiratória e a atividade das enzimas peroxidase (POD), polifenoloxidase (PPO), poligalacturonase (PG) e pectinametilesterase (PME) nos frutos armazenados a 2ºC, por 45 dias, em comparação com os testemunha. A atividade das enzimas associadas ao escurecimento, POD e PPO, assim como das associadas ao amaciamento da polpa, PME e PG, foi inibida pelo armazenamento a 2ºC, mas readquiriram atividade mais elevada que nos frutos-testemunha, quando foram transferidos ao ambiente, indicando estímulo devido aos danos pelo frio.
Características vegetativas e seus efeitos sobre a produção de bananeira em três ciclos
Authors: Lessa Lauro Saraiva , Oliveira Tadário Kamel de , Amorim Edson Perito , Assis Giselle Mariano Lessa de , Silva Sebastião de Oliveira e
Published: February 2013

A produtividade em bananeira é um caráter complexo que resulta da associação de diferentes fatores, influenciados pelo ambiente. Este trabalho teve por objetivo estudar os efeitos diretos e indiretos de características vegetativas sobre a produção de bananeira em três ciclos. O trabalho foi conduzido no campo experimental da Embrapa Acre, em Rio Branco, Acre, entre os anos de 2003 e 2006. Foram avaliados 13 genótipos de bananeira (Preciosa, Japira, Pacovan-Ken, Pacovan, BRS Platina, Prata-Anã, ST12-31, Nanicão, Grande Naine, Calipso, Ambrosia, Bucaneiro e FHIA-02), no espaçamento de 3 m x 2 m, no esquema de blocos ao acaso, com cinco repetições. Determinaram-se a altura de plantas, diâmetro do pseudocaule, número de folhas na floração e na colheita, peso do cacho e número de pencas no cacho. Realizou-se a análise de variância para cada ciclo e estimaram-se os coeficientes de correlação fenotípicos e os coeficientes de trilha. Adotou-se como variável básica o peso do cacho, e as demais, como variáveis explicativas. O estudo dos efeitos diretos e indiretos evidenciou que o caráter produção é bastante influenciado pelo ambiente no primeiro ciclo, e, nos ciclos seguintes, a produção é muito influenciada pelas características vegetativas, principalmente número de folhas na colheita.
Teores de carboidratos em estacas lenhosas de mirtileiro
Authors: Oliveira Rérinton Joabél Pires de , Bianchi Valmor João , Aires Rogério Ferreira , Campos Ângela Diniz
Published: February 2013

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar as alterações no teor de carboidratos em estacas lenhosas de mirtileiro das cultivares Delite, Powder Blue e Seleção 19. O trabalho foi dividido em dois experimentos, primeiramente foram analisados os teores de amido e de açúcares solúveis a partir de ramos coletados em quatro épocas (03-06, 04-07, 24-07 e 11-08-2008) e, posteriormente, avaliou-se o teor de carboidratos em estacas coletadas nas mesmas épocas citadas, porém submetidas ao enraizamento e avaliadas em diferentes épocas (03-06, 04-07, 04-08, 03-09 e 03-10; 04-07, 04-08, 03-09, 03-10; 24-07, 04-08, 03-09 e 03-10; 11-08, 03-09 e 03-10). Verificou-se que a cultivar Powder Blue tem maior concentração de amido nos ramos que as cultivares Delite e Seleção 19. Estacas lenhosas de mirtileiro com baixos teores de amido, quando submetidas ao enraizamento, apresentam ressíntese de amido. No fim do período de inverno, ocorre aumento na concentração de amido nos ramos lenhosos de mirtileiro. Este aumento ao final do período de inverno está associado à maior taxa de enraizamento.
Influência do substrato, tamanho de sementes e maturação de frutos na formação de mudas de pitangueira
Authors: Antunes Luis Eduardo Corrêa , Picolotto Luciano , Vignolo Gerson Kleinick , Goncalves Michel Adrighi
Published: February 2013

Os experimentos foram realizados na Embrapa Clima Temperado, e as muda , conduzidas em bandejas de poliestireno expandido, de 72 células, colocadas em casa de vegetação com irrigação manual. O delineamento experimental adotado nos experimentos foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial, utilizando-se de quatro repetições com 12 sementes cada (Experimento 1) e três repetições com 18 sementes cada (Experimento 2). Os tratamentos do Experimento 1 foram o tamanho de semente (média e pequena) e o substrato (Plantimax®, vermiculita e fibra de coco). Já no Experimento 2, os tratamentos utilizados foram as seleções de pitangueira (67 e172) e a maturação do fruto (parcial e totalmente maduro). Os parâmetros avaliados foram: porcentagem de emergência, comprimento da parte aérea e da maior raiz (cm), número de folhas por planta, massa da matéria seca da raiz e da parte aérea (g), sementes brocadas, dormentes e não emergidas. As sementes de tamanho médio foram superiores às pequenas em todas as variáveis avaliadas. O substrato Plantimax® proporcionou maior massa da matéria seca total do que a fibra de coco, porém não diferindo da vermiculita. A seleção 172 apresentou maior porcentagem de emergência e menor dormência do que a 67. As sementes oriundas dos frutos totalmente maduros apresentaram maior dormência e menor número de folhas do que as sementes de frutos parcialmente maduros. Conclui-se que a utilização de sementes de tamanho médio e do substrato Plantimax® proporciona melhor desenvolvimento inicial de mudas de pitangueira. O grau de maturação dos frutos afeta o processo de dormência das sementes e o desenvolvimento inicial das mudas de pitangueira.
Balancing guava nutrition with liming and fertilization
Authors: Hernandes Amanda , Parent Serge-Étienne , Natale William , Parent Léon Étienne
Published: February 2013

Guava response to liming and fertilization can be monitored by tissue testing. Tissue nutrient signature is often diagnosed against nutrient concentration standards. However, this approach has been criticized for not considering nutrient interactions and to generate numerical biases as a result of data redundancy, scale dependency and non-normal distribution. Techniques of compositional data analysis can control those biases by balancing groups of nutrients, such as those involved in liming and fertilization. The sequentially arranged and orthonormal isometric log ratios (ilr) or balances avoid numerical bias inherent to compositional data. The objectives were to relate tissue nutrient balances with the production of "Paluma" guava orchards differentially limed and fertilized, and to adjust the current patterns of nutrient balance with the range of more productive guava trees. It was conducted one experiment of 7-yr of liming and three experiments of 3-yr with N, P and K trials in 'Paluma' orchards on an Oxisol. Plant N, P, K, Ca and Mg were monitored yearly. It was selected the [N, P, K | Ca, Mg], [N, P | K], [N | P] and [Ca | Mg] balances to set apart the effects of liming (Ca-Mg) and fertilizers (N-K) on macronutrient balances. Liming largely influenced nutrient balances of guava in the Oxisol while fertilization was less influential. The large range of guava yields and nutrient balances allowed defining balance ranges and comparing them with the critical ranges of nutrient concentration values currently used in Brazil and combined into ilr coordinates.
Characterization of the effects of macronutrient deficiencies in mangabeira seedlings
Authors: Bessa Layara Alexandre , Silva Fabiano Guimarães , Moreira Marialva Alvarenga , Teodoro João Paulo Ribeiro , Soares Frederico Antônio Loureiro
Published: February 2013

Knowledge of the mineral nutrition requirements of mangabeira (Hancornia speciosa Gomes) is relatively scarce and rudimentary because there is a lack of consistent data concerning its nutritional demands at different developmental stages. The aim of this research was to characterize the visual symptoms of macronutrient deficiencies and to evaluate the effects of these deficiencies on the growth, the production of dry matter, and the leaf content of mangabeira. To achieve this goal, a greenhouse experiment was conducted at the Goiano Federal Institute (Instituto Federal Goiano) in Rio Verde - GO, from January to June 2011 in which mangabeira plants were arranged in a random block design and grown in nutrient solutions. This experiment was replicated four times. The plants were treated with either a complete nutrient solution or a nutrient solution from which the individual macronutrient of interest (nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), or sulfur (S) had been omitted. The omission of a macronutrient from the nutrient solution resulted in morphological alterations that were characteristic symptoms of the particular nutritional deficiency and caused decreases in growth and dry matter mass production. The accumulation of macronutrients displayed the following order in mangabeira leaves: N>K>Ca>P>S>Mg.
Yield mapping, soil fertility and tree gaps in an orange orchard
Authors: Molin José Paulo , Colaço André Freitas , Carlos Eduardo Fermino , Mattos Junior Dirceu de
Published: February 2013

The current high competition on Citrus industry demands from growers new management technologies for superior efficiency and sustainability. In this context, precision agriculture (PA) has developed techniques based on yield mapping and management systems that recognize field spatial variability, which contribute to increase profitability of commercial crops. Because spatial variability is often not perceived the orange orchards are still managed as uniform and adoption of PA technology on citrus farms is low. Thus, the objective of the present study was to characterize the spatial variability of three factors: fruit yield, soil fertility and occurrence of plant gaps caused by either citrus blight or huanglongbing (HLB) in a commercial Valencia orchard in Brotas, São Paulo State, Brazil. Data from volume, geographic coordinates and representative area of the bags used on harvest were recorded to generate yield points that were then interpolated to produce the yield map. Soil chemical characteristics were studied by analyzing samples collected along planting rows and inter-rows in 24 points distributed in the field. A map of density of tree gaps was produced by georeferencing individual gaps and later by counting the number of gaps within 500 m² cells. Data were submitted to statistical and geostatistical analyses. A t test was used to compare means of soil chemical characteristics between sampling regions. High variation on yield and density of tree gaps was observed from the maps. It was also demonstrated overlapping regions of high density of plant absence and low fruit yield. Soil fertility varied depending on the sampling region in the orchard. The spatial variability found on yield, soil fertility and on disease occurrence demonstrated the importance to adopt site specific nutrient management and disease control as tools to guarantee efficiency of fruit production.
Sentimentos maternos frente ao desenvolvimento da criança entre 24 e 28 meses
Authors: Lopes Rita de Cássia Sobreira , Vivian Aline Groff , Oliveira Débora Silva de , Deluchi Michelle , Tudge Jonathan , Piccinini Cesar Augusto
Published: February 2013

O presente estudo visou investigar os sentimentos maternos frente às aquisições de desenvolvimento da criança entre os 24 e 28 meses. Participaram16 mães primíparas, com idade entre 21 e 36 anos, de nível socioeconômico, escolaridade e status ocupacional variados, residentes na região metropolitana de Porto Alegre, com o companheiro. Foi realizada entrevista semiestruturada, submetida à análise qualitativa de conteúdo, abordando a experiência da maternidade e o desenvolvimento da criança. As mães relataram ampliação do vocabulário, motricidade e capacidade de compreensão e memória, bem como oscilação de independência e dependência da criança. Diante dessas aquisições foram expressos sentimentos maternos de prazer, admiração e gratificação, por um lado, e de cansaço, irritação e stress por outro. Essas mudanças e o modo como a mãe e a criança lidam com elas, ajudam a configurar seus relacionamentos com o mundo externo e repercutem nas interações entre ambas.
Religando as arenas institucionais: uma proposta de abordagens multidimensionais nos estudos legislativos
Authors: Peres Paulo , Carvalho Ernani
Published: February 2013

A área de estudos legislativos foi uma das linhas de pesquisa que mais se desenvolveram no Brasil nos últimos anos. Ela formou-se em torno da oposição entre as explicações "distributivistas" e as explicações "partidárias" do processo legislativo. Seus achados empíricos e seu debate teórico certamente trouxeram grandes contribuições à Ciência Política do país e, até mesmo, ao debate de política comparada. Não obstante, essa linha de investigação incorreu no problema de adotar abordagens monodimensionais do fenômeno. A explicação partidária promoveu certo "insulamento" do poder Legislativo em relação às outras arenas institucionais, analisando-o em função de sua autodeterminação. A abordagem distributivista investiu quase exclusivamente no sistema eleitoral como variável explicativa, deixando em segundo plano outras arenas institucionais. Diante disso, nossa proposta é analisar os limites dessas abordagens presentes nos estudos legislativos, de forma a destacar algumas lacunas explicativas que poderiam ser preenchidas por meio de uma agenda de pesquisas multidimensionais, que considerem, por exemplo, as organizações partidárias e o poder Judiciário.
Determinação de parâmetros cinéticos da inativação térmica de Escherichia coli em lodo de esgoto
Authors: Fogolari Odinei , Reis Crisleine Zottis dos , Philippi Luiz Sérgio
Published: February 2013

O presente trabalho objetivou determinar parâmetros cinéticos da inativação térmica de Escherichia coli em lodo de esgoto. Os ensaios foram realizados em laboratório pelo método do frasco de três bocas nas temperaturas de 45, 50, 55, 60 e 65ºC. Os resultados indicaram que a cinética de inativação térmica deste microrganismo pode ser descrita por um modelo de primeira ordem. A resistência da bactéria é reduzida consideravelmente em temperaturas acima de 55ºC. A energia de inativação encontrada foi 2,48x10(5) J.mol-1. O tempo de redução decimal D55ºC foi de 3,61 minutos e o coeficiente térmico z foi 8,3ºC.
O uso da pesquisa-ação para a avaliação e o aprimoramento de práticas integradas para a vigilância da qualidade da água para consumo humano: potencialidades e desafios
Authors: Queiroz Ana Carolina Lanza , Cardoso Laís Santos de Magalhães , Heller Léo , Cairncross Sandy
Published: February 2013

Este artigo apresenta as fases de uma pesquisa-ação empreendida para avaliar e aprimorar as práticas do Programa de Vigilância em Saúde Ambiental relacionada à qualidade da água para consumo humano (Vigiagua) em três municípios do estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Com o emprego do método qualitativo, objetivou-se detalhar os processos desencadeados durante as fases da pesquisa, problematizando-os metodologicamente e discutindo os desafios e potencialidades decorrentes da operacionalização do método. Constatou-se que a pesquisa-ação possibilitou a apropriação e o envolvimento dos sujeitos implicados na pesquisa; a criação de espaços intersetoriais, inter e intrainstitucionais; o estabelecimento de novas relações e a ampliação do conhecimento acerca do objeto trabalhado. Esses ganhos, possivelmente, transcenderão à própria pesquisa realizada.
Biossegurança em fonoaudiologia
Authors: Albuquerque Marcela do Amaral de , Bernardo Valéria da Rocha Silveira , Silva Luciana de Ornellas , Nagib Leila Coelho , Frota Silvana
Published: February 2013

OBJETIVO: pesquisar, entre um grupo de fonoaudiólogos, o grau de conhecimento e utilização das normas de biossegurança na rotina clínica. MÉTODO: foi realizada pesquisa por meio de um questionário respondido por cem profissionais de diferentes áreas de atuação (Audiologia Clínica, Audiologia Ocupacional, Voz, Neonatologia, Linguagem, Motricidade Orofacial e que atuam em mais de uma área). Cada item, respondido de forma positiva, correspondia a 1 ou 2 pontos, sendo a máxima pontuação (100%) correspondendo a 80 pontos. As respostas obtidas foram analisadas e as pontuações encontradas, padronizadas, ou seja, transformadas em índices percentuais indicando seu desempenho. O valor da percentagem de cada questionário poderia variar de 0 a 100%, sendo que quanto maior a percentagem obtida, maior o conhecimento e aplicabilidade das normas de biossegurança pelo profissional na rotina clínica. Foram adotadas as faixas de (0-25%), (26-50%), (51-75%) e (76-100%) para distinguir o nível de conhecimento e aplicação das medidas de precaução pelos participantes. RESULTADOS: dos cem fonoaudiólogos avaliados por meio dos questionários (100%), 1% obteve a percentagem na faixa de (0 a 25%), 45% em (26 a 50%), 50% entre (51 a 75%) e 4% (76 a 100%). CONCLUSÃO: a maioria dos profissionais que participaram conhece e aplica as medidas de biossegurança.
Dynamics of coastal meta‐ecosystems: the intermittent upwelling hypothesis and a test in rocky intertidal regions
Authors: Menge Bruce A. , Menge Duncan N. L.
Published: February 2013

The intermittent upwelling hypothesis (IUH) predicts that the strength of ecological subsidies, organismal growth responses, and species interactions will vary unimodally along a gradient of upwelling from persistent downwelling to persistent upwelling, with maximal levels at an intermediate or “intermittent” state of upwelling. To test this model, we employed the comparative‐experimental method to investigate these processes at 16–44 wave‐exposed rocky intertidal sites in Oregon, California, and New Zealand, varying in average upwelling and/or downwelling during spring–summer. As predicted by the IUH, ecological subsidies (phytoplankton abundance, prey recruitment rates), prey responses (barnacle colonization, mussel growth), and species interactions (competition rate, predation rate and effects) were unimodally related to upwelling. On average, unimodal relationships with upwelling magnitude explained ∼50% of the variance in the various processes, and unimodal and monotonic positive relationships against an index of intermittency explained ∼37% of the variance. Regressions among the ecological subsidies and species interactions were used to infer potential ecological linkages that underpinned these patterns. Abundance of phytoplankton was associated with increases in rates of barnacle colonization, intensity of competition and predation, and predation effects, and rates of barnacle recruitment were associated with increases in mussel growth, barnacle colonization, and species interactions. Positive effects on interactions were also seen for rates of colonization, competition, predation, and predation effects. Several responses were saturating or exponential, suggestive of threshold effects. These results suggest that the IUH has geographic generality and are also consistent with earlier arguments that bottom‐up effects and propagule subsidies are strongly linked to the dynamics of higher trophic levels, or top‐down effects, as well as to nontrophic interactions. The ∼50% of the variance not explained by upwelling is likely due to more regional‐to‐local influences on the processes examined, and future efforts should focus on incorporating such effects into the IUH.
Public Health and High Volume Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Korfmacher Katrina Smith , Jones Walter A. , Malone Samantha L. , Vinci Leon F.
Published: February 2013

High-volume horizontal hydraulic fracturing (HVHF) in unconventional gas reserves has vastly increased the potential for domestic natural gas production. HVHF has been promoted as a way to decrease dependence on foreign energy sources, replace dirtier energy sources like coal, and generate economic development. At the same time, activities related to expanded HVHF pose potential risks including ground- and surface water contamination, climate change, air pollution, and effects on worker health. HVHF has been largely approached as an issue of energy economics and environmental regulation, but it also has significant implications for public health. We argue that public health provides an important perspective on policy-making in this arena. The American Public Health Association (APHA) recently adopted a policy position for involvement of public health professionals in this issue. Building on that foundation, this commentary lays out a set of five perspectives that guide how public health can contribute to this conversation.
Disclosure of Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid Chemical Additives: Analysis of Regulations
Authors: Maule Alexis L. , Makey Colleen M. , Benson Eugene B. , Burrows Isaac J. , Scammell Madeleine K.
Published: February 2013

Hydraulic fracturing is used to extract natural gas from shale formations. The process involves injecting into the ground fracturing fluids that contain thousands of gallons of chemical additives. Companies are not mandated by federal regulations to disclose the identities or quantities of chemicals used during hydraulic fracturing operations on private or public lands. States have begun to regulate hydraulic fracturing fluids by mandating chemical disclosure. These laws have shortcomings including nondisclosure of proprietary or “trade secret” mixtures, insufficient penalties for reporting inaccurate or incomplete information, and timelines that allow for after-the-fact reporting. These limitations leave lawmakers, regulators, public safety officers, and the public uninformed and ill-prepared to anticipate and respond to possible environmental and human health hazards associated with hydraulic fracturing fluids. We explore hydraulic fracturing exemptions from federal regulations, as well as current and future efforts to mandate chemical disclosure at the federal and state level.
Analyzing Behaviors Influencing the Adoption of Online Games from the Perspective of Virtual Contact
Authors: Lin Hung-Yuan , Chiang Chi-Hsian
Published: February 2013

In this study, we discussed the antecedents of online game adoption based on the technology acceptance model. A total of 303 valid questionnaires were collected and hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling. Results showed that telepresence positively influences parasocial
interaction, perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEU), and perceived playfulness (PP). Parasocial interaction was found to have a positive impact on subjective norms (SN), PU, and PP. In addition, SN positively influenced image (Im) and PEU positively influenced PU and PP. Finally,
behavioral intention to use (BIU) online games was found to be positively affected by SN, PU, PEU, and PP.
Validation of the Emotional Eating Scale Among Chinese Undergraduates
Authors: Zhu Hong , Cai Taisheng , Chen Gui , Zhang Bin
Published: February 2013

We examined emotional eating among undergraduates in China. The Emotional Eating Scale (EES; Arnow, Kenardy, & Agras, 1995) was translated into Chinese and adapted to assess intensity and frequency of eating in response to different emotions. A factor analysis generated 4 subscales
of emotions for which eating is a response: anxiety, depression, anger/hostility, and positive emotion. Internal consistency reliability for the subscales was established (Cronbach's alpha = .817, .852, .832, and .861, respectively). Moderate correlations were found between all subscales,
eating pathology, and impulsive control. Positive emotion and negative emotion were found to play an important role in eating behavior. As there was a strong relationship between emotional eaters, especially negative emotional eaters, and eating psychopathology, these individuals may be at
high risk of developing an eating disorder and/ or becoming obese.
Exposure to Internet Pornography Among Taiwanese Adolescents
Authors: Chen An-Sing , Leung Mark , Chen Chih-Hao , Yang Shu Ching
Published: February 2013

We examined the use of Internet pornography (IP) by Taiwanese adolescents, and analyzed activities involved in seeking IP, motivations and perceptions with regard to IP, and relationships among IP experience and background variables. The results revealed that 71% of respondents had
been exposed to IP; of this group, 41.3% reported only unintentional exposure (UE) and 58.7% reported intentional exposure (IE). Most males exposed to IP were classified in the IE as opposed to the UE group. Compared with the female respondents, male respondents tended to report more intentional
IP exposure, longer terms of IP exposure history, and greater identification with a positive value of IP. Respondents in more urbanized areas also reported more IE than those in less urbanized areas.
Support as a Mediator of the Impact of Cognitive Load on Students' E-Portfolio Learning Outcomes
Authors: Lin Chin-Hung , Yang Shu-Ching , Lai Chin-Chi
Published: February 2013

In this study we analyzed the role that support plays in undergraduate students' learning processes in an e-portfolio context. Three categories of support were identified and used in this study: peer, instructional, and document support. Questionnaire data from 374 undergraduate students
were collected and analyzed. Results indicate that support plays a mediating role in cognitive load and learning outcomes when e-portfolios are used in a classroom setting. The results also show that e-portfolio tools increase the cognitive demands on students and that students perceive better
learning outcomes in a course when they receive more support. This information could be used to improve our understanding of how educational assessment systems and learning tools should be designed and implemented.