bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A MORTALIDADE EMBRIONÁRIA E A EFICÁCIA DA INSEMINAÇÃO ARTIFICIAL EM OVINOS
Authors: Moraes José Carlos Ferrugem
Published: September 2014

São apresentados aspectos relativos a ocorrência e a importância da mortalidade embrionária na fertilidade de ovelhas, submetidas a diferentes métodos de reprodução. A análise destes estudos sugere que, embora ocorram maiores taxas de mortalidade embrionária em ovinos quando são adotados métodos artificiais de reprodução, provavelmente, esta não seja a principal causa das insatisfatórias taxas de concepção ao primeiro serviço.
Physicochemical and enzimatic transformations of "eva" apples stored under modified atmosphere
Authors: Thomas Ariela Betsy , Pires Caroline Roberta Freitas , Lima Luiz Carlos de Oliveira
Published: September 2014

The need for a permanent market supply of fresh fruit has generated great interest in postharvest techniques that can promote useful life and quality of the fruit. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of atmospheric modification using different polymeric films in maintaining postharvest quality and prolonging the shelf life of Eva (Mallus sp) apples. For this, fruits from the city of Barbacena - MG, selected and sanitized were packed in plastic trays and wrapped in the corresponding films. The films used were: polypropylene - 20 µm, low-density polyethylene - 14 µm and high-density polyethylene - 7 µm. Another group of fruits (control) was not submitted to a modified atmosphere. Subsequently, all the the packages were stored under refrigeration (0 ° C ± 0.5) for 210 days and the evaluations of the following variables were performed every 30 days of storage: hydrogen potential (pH), titratable acidity, soluble solids, weight loss, firmness, total pectin, soluble pectin, pectin methyl esterase and polygalacturonase. The work was conducted in a completely randomized design (4x8), with 4 treatments and 8 experimental times. Each treatment consisted of three replicates and each experimental unit consisted of six fruits. The results were submitted to variance analysis and means were compared by the Tukey test at 5% probability and regression analysis. The low density polyethylene (14 µm) packaging provided the best conservation of the Eva cultivar apple textural characteristics.
Teoria das representações sociais: a ruptura de paradigmas das correntes clássicas das teorias psicológicas
Authors: Rocha Luis Fernando
Published: September 2014

A teoria das representações sociais é o principal objetivo deste artigo de revisão bibliográfica, cujo estudo se inicia com a discussão dos paradigmas científicos predominantes e de como a teoria se encontra em uma posição de rompimento com esses paradigmas. Desenvolvida sob a necessidade de se construir uma Psicologia social que superasse a dicotomia indivíduo e sociedade, a teoria abarca uma série de objetos que dizem respeito à comunicação e à elaboração de comportamentos entre indivíduos e grupos. O texto também traz críticas à teoria, particularmente no tocante à sua relação com o conceito de ideologia, proposta por diversos autores. De todo modo, a fecundidade de seus conceitos e o amplo uso a que pode ser submetida tornam a teoria das representações sociais importante construto, não somente para a Psicologia como também para as disciplinas das áreas de humanidades.
Gerenciamento de impressões e tomada de decisão em entrevistas de emprego
Authors: Ferreira Aleciane da Silva Moreira , Gondima Sônia Maria Guedes , Pilati Ronaldo
Published: September 2014

O objetivo do estudo de delineamento experimental intersujeitos foi analisar as relações entre gerenciamento de impressões de candidatos a emprego e a decisão de contratação pelo entrevistador. Apresentou-se uma descrição de entrevista de cargo de nível médio, incluindo respostas de cinco supostos candidatos, cada um deles fazendo uso de uma das estratégias de gerenciamento de impressões: autopromoção, insinuação, exemplificação, intimidação ou suplicação. Participaram 99 profissionais de gestão de pessoas, aleatoriamente distribuídos em cada uma das cinco condições experimentais. Para o teste de hipóteses, foram usadas análises de correlação, de variância e o Teste-t. A ANOVA evidenciou que as estratégias de autopromoção e de exemplificação foram mais associadas à decisão de contratação. As estratégias de autopromoção relacionadas a comportamentos não verbais (manter postura ereta, olhar fixo nos olhos) também repercutem favoravelmente na decisão de contratação. O tempo de experiência do entrevistador aumenta as chances de o candidato que faz uso da estratégia de autopromoção ser contratado. As relações entre comportamentos não verbais e atributos físicos e pessoais do candidato foram evidenciadas somente para as estratégias de autopromoção e de insinuação. Há indícios de que o uso de estratégias de GI e o comportamento não verbal têm um papel importante na decisão de contratação.
Caracterização ovariana e definição do número de gerações de mosca-das-frutas sul-americana durante o ciclo das culturas em dois pomares na região de Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
Authors: Reyes C.P. , Jahnke S.M. , Redaelli L.R.
Published: September 2014

A mosca-das-frutas sul-americana, Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Tephritidae), é a principal praga das frutíferas no Sul do Brasil. Este trabalho buscou caracterizar as populações de moscas-das-frutas desta espécie capturadas em armadilhas com atrativos alimentares, através da comparação do estágio de maturação dos órgãos reprodutivos de fêmeas de campo e de laboratório. Realizaram-se coletas em dois pomares, um de pessegueiro, com manejo convencional e um de goiabeira, sem manejo, durante uma safra, com dois diferentes atrativos alimentares, em diferentes fases das culturas. Foram utilizadas armadilhas do tipo McPhail com suco de uva a 25% e proteína hidrolisada a 5%. As fêmeas coletadas foram dissecadas, seus ovários medidos em largura e comprimento e foi determinado o grau de maturação sexual, assim com as de laboratório, com a idade controlada. Foram capturadas 895 fêmeas de A. fraterculus no pomar de goiabeiras e 139 no de pessegueiros. Determinaram-se três estágios fisiológicos das fêmeas a partir da diferenciação celular dos ovários: imaturas, em desenvolvimento e maduras. Fêmeas maduras de laboratório apresentaram ovários significativamente menores que as de campo. No pomar de pessegueiros identificaram-se, através dos picos de coletas de moscas imaturas, três gerações durante o ciclo da cultura, até a colheita. Nas goiabeiras, o maior pico populacional de moscas imaturas ocorreu no final do ciclo, indicando uma população apta a colonizar outras frutíferas.
Cálculo da CI50 (concentração inibitória média) e CL50 (concentração letal média) do óleo da semente de andiroba (Carapa guianensis, Aubl.) sobre Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Canestrini, 1887), Anocentor nitens (Neumann, 1897) e Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille, 1806) (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: Farias M.P.O. , Wanderley A.G. , Alves L.C. , Faustino M.A.G.
Published: September 2014

Determinou-se a CI50 (concentração inibitória média) e a CL50 (concentração letal média) do óleo da semente de andiroba (Carapa guianensis, Aubl), respectivamente, sobre a ovipostura e larvas não alimentadas de Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, Anocentor nitens e Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Para o tratamento das fêmeas utilizaram-se cinco diluições do óleo (20%, 10%, 5%, 2,5% e 1,25%), e um controle negativo com água destilada, com três repetições de 10 fêmeas ingurgitadas para cada diluição por tratamento. Para as larvas, foram preparadas seis diluições do óleo (20%, 10%, 5%, 2,5%, 1,25 e 0,75%), utilizando-se água destilada e tween 80 como dispersante, e um grupo controle com água destilada e outro com tween 80 e água destilada. Aproximadamente 100 larvas de 14 a 21 dias de idade foram utilizadas para cada diluição no teste de imersão. Foram obtidas CI50 de 4,332; 4,850; 4,903, e uma CL50 de 5,228; 5,362 e 5,698, respectivamente, para fêmeas e larvas de R. (B.) microplus, A. nitens e R. sanguineus. A menor concentração em que se observou eficácia máxima do óleo da semente de C. guianensis foi de 10%. Essa espécie possui significativo potencial no controle dos carrapatos avaliados, interferindo na sua reprodução, podendo ser no futuro uma alternativa aos carrapaticidas normalmente utilizados, após estudos mais detalhados.
Inquérito soro-epidemiológico de Brucella ovis em rebanhos ovinos no semiárido baiano
Authors: Souza T.S. , Costa J.N. , Martinez P.M. , Lima C.C.V. , Araújo B.R. , Costa Neto A.O. , Anunciação A.V.M. , Almeida M.G.A.R. , Pinheiro R.R.
Published: September 2014

Com o objetivo de analisar a ocorrência de anticorpos contra Brucella ovis em ovinos no semiárido baiano, este inquérito foi conduzido em rebanhos da microrregião de Juazeiro, Bahia. O teste de imunodifusão em gel de ágar (IDGA) foi utilizado para examinar 694 amostras de soro de 58 rebanhos. Anticorpos para B. ovis foram observados em cinco (0,72%) dos animais investigados. Acredita-se que o baixo número de soropositivos deva-se às características dos sistemas de produção, com predominância do tipo de exploração extensiva de animais localmente adaptados, mestiços e sem raça definida para a produção de carne e pele, com baixa produtividade e tecnificação.
Prevalência de anticorpos contra a linfadenite caseosa em criações comerciais de ovinos no Distrito Federal, Brasil
Authors: Carmo F.B. do , Guimarães A.S. , Pauletti R.B. , Lage A.P. , Gonçalves V.S.P. , Meyer R. , Portela R.W.D. , Miyoshi A. , Azevedo V. , Gouveia A.M.G. , Heinemann M.B.
Published: September 2014

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a prevalência de anticorpos contra linfadenite caseosa (LC) em rebanhos ovinos comerciais do Distrito Federal (DF). Foram coletadas 1.028 amostras de soro entre março e junho de 2004, de todas as propriedades (32) do Distrito Federal com pelo menos 20 fêmeas adultas no rebanho. A soroprevalência da linfadenite caseosa foi determinada por ELISA com proteínas secretadas de Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis. Cinquenta por cento das 32 propriedades apresentaram pelo menos um animal soropositivo para o LC e a prevalência real para animais foi de 44,0% (IC 95: 41,0; 47,0), portanto, esses dados sugerem que a LC está presente em rebanhos ovinos comerciais no Distrito Federal.
First record of Beauveria bassiana (Hyphomycetes: Moniliales) on adults of cassava lace bug Vatiga manihotae (Drake) (Hemiptera: Tingidae) in Brazil
Authors: Alves L.F.A , Bellon P.P. , Rheinheimer A.R. , Pietrowski V.
Published: September 2014

Adults of Vatiga manihotae (Drake) were collected on cassava plantation (Manihotae esculenta Crantz), fécula branca variety, in Marechal Cândido Rondon, West region of Paraná state, Brazil, showing symptoms of fungi infection. Isolation and fungi identification procedures were performed. After that, Koch's postulates were used to prove the link between the fungus and insect and i noculated insects showed symptoms similar to the previously observed. Fungus was identified as Beauveria bassiana and caused the death of 14% of the insects 10 days after inoculation. This is the first record of natural occurrence of this species of fungus infecting V. manihote and further studies should be conducted to evaluated new isolates to control of this species.
Hospedabilidade de plantas melhoradoras de solo à Rotylenchulus reniformis Linford e Oliveira (1940)
Authors: Gardiano C.G. , Krzyzanowski A.A. , Saab O.J.A.
Published: September 2014

No Brasil, o nematoide reniforme é um dos principais problemas fitossanitários da cultura do algodoeiro, podendo ocasionar perdas superiores a 60% na produção. Uma forma de manejo que tem sido apontada como uma prática na redução dos danos causados por este nematoide é o uso de espécies de plantas não hospedeiras que são utilizadas como plantas melhoradoras de solo e em rotação de culturas. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a hospedabilidade de espécies de plantas melhoradoras de solo ao parasitismo de Rotylenchulus renfiormis. Foram avaliadas 11 espécies de plantas melhoradoras de solo e como testemunha de suscetibilidade utilizou-se o cultivar de algodão 'CD 401' (Gossypium hirsuturm). O delineamento estatístico utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado com 10 repetições. Baseado nos fatores de reprodução, o estilosante 'Campo Grande' (Stylosantes capitata x S. macrocephala), a Brachiaria ruziziensis, a mucuna anã (Mucuna deeringiana), o sorgo 'SI-3204' (Sorghum vulgare) e o capim moha (Setaria italica) comportaram-se como resistentes; já o milho 'IPR115' (Zea mays), o milheto 'BRS1501' (Pennisetum glaucum) e o capim pé de galinha gigante (Eleusine coracana) como imunes. No entanto, o guandu anão 'IAPAR43' (Cajanus cajan) e o guandu 'Fava Larga' (C. cajan) comportaram-se como suscetíveis, com médias de número de ovos maiores que a testemunha. De acordo com os resultados conclui-se que as espécies S. vulgare, S. italica, B. ruziziensis, M. deerringiana, Z. mays, P. glaucum, E. coracana e Stylosanthes Campo Grande podem ser utilizadas como uma opção no manejo de R. reniformis, tornando-se uma alternativa rentável para o produtor, pois poderá diminuir a população desse nematoide.
Brucelose bovina no Estado de Roraima: estudo retrospectivo
Authors: Souza L.P.A , Brasil A.W.L , Parentoni R.N , Azevedo E.O , Alves C.J , Azevedo S.S
Published: September 2014

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi determinar a frequência de propriedades positivas (focos) e de fêmeas bovinas soropositivas para a brucelose no Estado de Roraima, bem como identificar fatores de risco. Foram utilizados dados da Agência de Defesa Agropecuária do Estado de Roraima (ADERR), coletados de suas quatro microrregiões, durante o período de janeiro de 2007 a julho de 2009. Durante esse período, foram examinadas 387 propriedades, e 9.087 soros de fêmeas bovinas com idade > 24 meses foram submetidos ao diagnóstico sorológico da brucelose. Para a análise de fatores de risco, foi utilizada a regressão logística múltipla. Uma propriedade foi considerada foco quando apresentou pelo menos um animal soropositivo. Das propriedades investigadas, 106 (27,4%) apresentaram pelo menos um animal soropositivo e, dos animais analisados, 369 (4,1%) foram soropositivos. Os fatores de risco identificados foram: possuir mais de 51 animais no rebanho (odds ratio = 1,87; p = 0,015) e alugar pasto (odds ratio = 2,20; p = 0,003). Sugere-se que esforços sejam concentrados na intensificação da vacinação de bezerras no Estado de Roraima com o intuito de que seja alcançada uma prevalência compatível com as ações de teste e sacrifício de animais.
Germinação de Phakopsora pachyrhizi Sid. & P. Sid. sob diferentes herbicidas
Authors: Schwan-Stoffel A.V , Gavassoni W.L , Bacchi L.M.A
Published: September 2014

Herbicidas são bastante utilizados na agricultura para controle de plantas daninhas. Por serem aplicados sobre as plantas, além de exercerem ação sobre o organismo alvo, podem influenciar outros processos ou a interação da planta, predispondo ou reduzindo a suscetibilidade a doenças. O efeito dos herbicidas no desenvolvimento de doenças geralmente resulta da ação direta no patógeno e indireta pela ativação de resposta da planta. Objetivou-se neste estudo avaliar in vitro o efeito dos herbicidas cletodim + fenoxaprop-P-etílico, clorimurom-etílico, fomesafem + óleo mineral, lactofem e glyphosate sobre uredósporos de Phakopsora pachyrhizi. A germinação e o comprimento do tubo germinativo dos uredósporos foram avaliados em 1, 2, 4, 8 e 24h de exposição aos herbicidas. Todos os herbicidas inibiram a germinação dos uredósporos. Tubos germinativos emitidos por uredósporos expostos a cletodim + fenoxaprope-P-etílico, clorimurom-etílico, lactofem e glyphosate apresentaram menores comprimentos, indicando ação tóxica dos herbicidas.
Avaliação de danos de adultos de Costalimaita ferruginea (Fabricius) (Col.: Crysomelidae) em Eucalyptus spp. na região de Presidente Prudente, SP
Authors: Montes S.M.N.M , Sato M.E , Raga A , Cerávolo L.C
Published: September 2014

Os danos provocados pelo besouro-amarelo Costalimaita ferruginea em folhas de Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. citriodora, E. pellita, E. urophylla e E. urograndis foram avaliados em floresta instalada no Município de Presidente Prudente, Estado de São Paulo. Para avaliação dos danos de C. ferruginea foram coletadas 14 folhas adultas por planta, em duas plantas por parcela. As folhas foram escolhi-das ao acaso, na altura de 1,50 m do solo. As parcelas eram constituídas de aproximadamente 120 plantas, com cinco repetições. O dano de C. ferruginea foi estimado por meio de notas visuais em todas as folhas coletadas, baseadas em uma escala diagramática de danos que variou de 0 a 100% (Notas 1 a 8). As médias das notas dos danos causados pelo besouro-amarelo em folhas de eucalipto variou entre 1,36 e 6,04. As folhas de E. camaldulensis foram as menos danificadas pelos adultos de C. ferruginea, enquanto que as de E. urophylla e E. urograndis foram as mais preferidas para alimentação, com danos semelhantes entre si.Os danos em folhas de E. citriodora e E. pellita foram intermediários, sendo esta espécie significativamente menos atacada que a primeira.
PPPs e decisões de investimento na construção de estádios de futebol
Authors: Cabral Sandro , Silva Jr Antonio Francisco A.
Published: September 2014

O presente artigo objetiva discutir os limites e as possibilidades da utilização de Parcerias Público-Privadas (PPPs) para construção de estádios de futebol. Para tanto, primeiramente, discute-se as PPPs e seus riscos. A presença de riscos associados às PPPs suscita a incorporação da teoria de opções reais - instrumental capaz de lidar com situações de incerteza quando da análise de investimentos. Tendo como pano de fundo as discussões em torno da candidatura da cidade de Salvador como sede à Copa do Mundo de Futebol de 2014 no Brasil, realizamos um exercício que ilustra as condições em que as PPPs são adequadas para a viabilização de uma nova arena esportiva apta a atender os padrões estipulados pela FIFA. Para operacionalizar o problema, estabelecemos uma metodologia de cálculo para o prêmio de um seguro a ser contratado para situações de baixa demanda. Ao final do artigo conclui-se que, em função das incertezas de demanda associadas à bilheteria de jogos de futebol, em parte condicionadas ao desempenho esportivo dos mandantes dos jogos, empreendimentos no entorno do estádio são essenciais para mitigar os riscos e, por conseqüência, viabilizar as PPPs.
Motivações para o Cooperativismo na Pequena Propriedade
Authors: Marschall Clédio Roberto
Published: September 2014

A realização do presente trabalho objetiva examinar, através de um estudo de caso junto aos associados de uma cooperativa agropecuária do oeste do Paraná, a relação existente entre uma estratégia de fortalecimento do pequeno proprietário e o seu comportamento associativo. Como corolário, evidenciouse que essa estratégiase materializa numa necessidade de defesa dos interesses econômicos, de valorização da produção e de construção da identidade do pequeno proprietário. Um outro aspecto evidenciado nos resultados do estudo de caso demonstra que o socialcatolicismo, concretizado nas relações de cooperação, forneceu as bases para o desenvolvimento do associativismo da região de abrangência da cooperativa em estudo.
Two New Species ofCalathusBonelli (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Harpalinae) from the Ethiopian Highlands
Authors: Novoa Francisco , Gañán Israel
Published: September 2014

Although the genus Calathus Bonelli is distributed mainly in the Holarctic, 17 species have been described from Ethiopia. A key to the Ethiopian Calathus with hind angles of pronotum well-marked, generally rectangular, is provided, including two new species, Calathus juan from Guna Mountain (Gonder) and Calathus carballalae from Mt. Batu (Bale). The two new species are described. Both taxa were found in Afroalpine grassland living under stones, sometimes at the base of the giant Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsley. C. juan bears some resemblance to Calathus theodori Ancey given its similar prosternal process and the shoulders of the elytra but is separated by the shape of its pronotum and the different configuration of the aedeagus. C. carballalae is characterized by the small callosity on the shoulders of the elytra, its elongate shape, and the singular aedeagus. Drawings of male genitalia of both C. theodoi and Calathus orthomoides Alluaud are presented for the first time.
Fabrication and characterization of zein–bioactive glass scaffolds
Authors: Naseri Shiva , Hum Jasmin , Lepry William Cole , Miri Amir Kamal , Nazhat Showan Najdat , Boccaccini Aldo Roberto
Published: September 2014

Plant proteins show advantages over animal-based proteins for biomaterial applications attributable to their ease of availability and suitable biodegradability. In this study, composite foams based on zein and 45S5 bioactive glass (BG) particles were produced through salt leaching for potential applications in bone tissue engineering (BTE) applications. Different characterization techniques were used including scanning electron microscopy for morphological and microstructural analysis, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction for composition characterization and mechanical tests. Zein–BG composite scaffolds demonstrate enhanced bioactivity with a compressive modulus and strength around 5·7 MPa and 1·9 MPa, respectively. Zein–BG composite scaffolds constitute a new bioactive material with potential applications in BTE.
Synergy in epoxy nanocomposites with cellulose nanocrystals and Boehmite
Authors: Teipel Blake R. , Grunlan Jaime
Published: September 2014

The role of a stabiliser in the stiffening and strengthening of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) filled epoxy was studied. Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), a cationic surfactant, and Boehmite (Boe) nanoclay were mixed with CNCs in water during processing. Boe and CTAB synergistically stiffened the CNC-epoxy composites, increasing elastic modulus by 72% over neat epoxy and 49% over unstabilised CNC-epoxy composites. Boe-treated CNC-epoxy composites exhibited a 23% increase in tensile strength over unfilled epoxy and a 63% increase over an unstabilised CNC-epoxy composite. These nanocomposites also maintained the strain-at-failure of neat epoxy and increased the storage modulus above Tg by 96%. This use of a naturally occurring alumina nanoplatelet as a synergistic stabiliser for CNCs provides a tremendous opportunity to reduce the use of surfactants in epoxy composites. This green filler system could be used to improve epoxy nanocomposites for structural components in automotive applications, construction materials and consumer products.
Neural Networks Art: Solving Problems with Multiple Solutions and New Teaching Algorithm
Authors: V. D Dmitrienko , A Yu. Zakovorotnyi , S Yu. Leonov , I. P Khavina
Published: September 2014

A new discrete neural networks adaptive resonance theory (ART), which allows solving problems with multiple solutions, is developed. New algorithms neural networks teaching ART to prevent degradation and reproduction classes at training noisy input data is developed. Proposed learning algorithms discrete ART networks, allowing obtaining different classification methods of input.
The comparative study of the structural and the electrical properties of the nano spinel ferrites prepared by the soft mehanochemical synthesis
Authors: Sekulic D.L. , Lazarevic Z.Z. , Jovalekic C. , Recnik A. , Romcevic M. , Hadzic B. , Romcevic N.Z.
Published: September 2014

Nano spinel ferrites MFe2O4 (M=Ni, Mn, Zn) were obtained by soft
mechanochemical synthesis in a planetary ball mill. The appropriate mixture
of oxide and hydroxide powders was used as initial compounds. All of this
mixture of powders was mechanically activated, uniaxial pressed and sintered
at 1100?C/2h. The phase composition of the powders and sintered samples were
analyzed by XRD and Raman spectroscopy. Morphologies were examined by SEM. In
this study, the AC-conductivity and DC-resistivity of sintered samples of
MFe2O4 (M= Ni, Mn, Zn) ferrites were measured at different frequencies and at
room temperature. The values of the electrical conductivities show an
increase with increasing temperature, which indicated the semiconducting
behavior of the studied ferrites. The conduction phenomenon of the
investigated samples could be explained on the basis of hopping model. The
complex impedance spectroscopy analysis was used to study the effect of grain
and grain boundary on the electrical properties of all three obtained
ferrites
Citrullinated Glucose-Regulated Protein 78 Is an Autoantigen in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Rondas Dieter , Crèvecoeur Inne , D’Hertog Wannes , Ferreira Gabriela Bomfim , Staes An , Garg Abhishek D. , Eizirik Decio L. , Agostinis Patrizia , Gevaert Kris , Overbergh Lut , Mathieu Chantal
Published: September 2014

Posttranslational modifications of self-proteins play a substantial role in the initiation or propagation of the autoimmune attack in several autoimmune diseases, but their contribution to type 1 diabetes is only recently emerging. In the current study, we demonstrate that inflammatory stress, induced by the cytokines interleukin-1β and interferon-γ, leads to citrullination of GRP78 in β-cells. This is coupled with translocation of this endoplasmic reticulum chaperone to the β-cell plasma membrane and subsequent secretion. Importantly, expression and activity of peptidylarginine deiminase 2, one of the five enzymes responsible for citrullination and a candidate gene for type 1 diabetes in mice, is increased in islets from diabetes-prone nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice. Finally, (pre)diabetic NOD mice have autoantibodies and effector T cells that react against citrullinated GRP78, indicating that inflammation-induced citrullination of GRP78 in β-cells generates a novel autoantigen in type 1 diabetes, opening new avenues for biomarker development and therapeutic intervention.
Cerebral Structural Changes in Diabetic Kidney Disease: African American–Diabetes Heart Study MIND
Authors: Sink Kaycee M. , Divers Jasmin , Whitlow Christopher T. , Palmer Nicholette D. , Smith S. Carrie , Xu Jianzhao , Hugenschmidt Christina E. , Wagner Benjamin C. , Williamson Jeff D. , Bowden Donald W. , Maldjian Joseph A. , Freedman Barry I.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE

Albuminuria and reduced kidney function are associated with cognitive impairment. Relationships between nephropathy and cerebral structural changes remain poorly defined, particularly in African Americans (AAs), a population at higher risk for both cognitive impairment and diabetes than European Americans. We examined the relationship between urine albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and cerebral MRI volumes in 263 AAs with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cross-sectional associations between renal parameters and white matter (WM), gray matter (GM), hippocampal, and WM lesion (WML) volumes were assessed using generalized linear models adjusted for age, education, sex, BMI, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level, and hypertension.

RESULTS

Participants had a mean (SD) age of 60.2 years (9.7 years), and 62.7% were female. Mean diabetes duration was 14.3 years (8.9 years), HbA1c level was 8.2% (2.2%; 66 mmol/mol), eGFR was 86.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 (23.2 mL/min/1.73 m2), and UACR was 155.8 mg/g (542.1 mg/g; median 8.1 mg/g). Those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or UACR >30 mg/g) had smaller GM and higher WML volumes. Higher UACR was significantly associated with higher WML volume and greater atrophy (larger cerebrospinal fluid volumes), and smaller GM and hippocampal WM volumes. A higher eGFR was associated with larger hippocampal WM volumes. Consistent with higher WML volumes, participants with CKD had significantly poorer processing speed and working memory. These findings were independent of glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

We found albuminuria to be a better marker of cerebral structural changes than eGFR in AAs with type 2 diabetes. Relationships between albuminuria and brain pathology may contribute to poorer cognitive performance in patients with mild CKD.
Incretin-Based Drugs and the Risk of Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Yu Oriana Hoi Yun , Filion Kristian B. , Azoulay Laurent , Patenaude Valerie , Majdan Agnieszka , Suissa Samy
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the use of incretin-based drugs, including GLP-1 analogs and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, is associated with an increased risk of congestive heart failure (CHF) among patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The U.K. Clinical Practice Research Datalink, linked to the Hospital Episode Statistics database, was used to conduct a cohort study with a nested case-control analysis among patients newly prescribed antidiabetic drugs between 1 January 2007 and 31 March 2012 and no prior history of CHF. Case subjects were defined as patients hospitalized for a first CHF and matched with up to 20 control subjects on age, duration of treated diabetes, calendar year, and time since cohort entry. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% CIs of incident CHF comparing current use of incretin-based drugs with current use of two or more oral antidiabetic drugs.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 57,737 patients followed for a mean 2.4 years, during which time 1,118 incident cases of hospitalized CHF were identified (incidence rate 8.1/1,000 person-years). Current use of incretin-based drugs was not associated with an increased risk of CHF (adjusted OR 0.85 [95% CI 0.62–1.16]). Secondary analyses revealed no duration-response relationship (P trend = 0.39).

CONCLUSIONS

In our population-based study, incretin-based drug use was not associated with an increased risk of CHF among patients with type 2 diabetes. These findings provide some reassurance, but will need to be replicated in other large-scale studies.
Improving weld quality by laser re-melting
Authors: Frostevarg Jan , Torkamany Mohammad J. , Powell John , Kaplan Alexander F. H.
Published: September 2014

Laser welding, arc welding, and laser-arc hybrid welding can all result in undercut and varying penetration. In some cases, it is technically and commercially viable to reduce undercut at the weld cap and smooth out the weld root profile by defocussing the welding laser and using it to remelt the welded surfaces.
Exploring Approaches How to Measure a Lean Process
Authors: Österman Christer , Fundin Anders
Published: September 2014

Purpose:The purpose of the research is to explore a practical method of measuring the implementation of lean in a process. The method will be based on examining the abilities of a group. At this scale the ability to work standardized and solve problems is important. These two abilities are dependent of each other and are fundamental for the group's ability to create a stable result. In this context the method of standardized work (SW) is define to be the methods used in a process to generate stable results. Problem solving (PS) is defined as the methods used to return a process to a condition where SW is possible.

Methodology /approach: The research is conducted in a multiple case study in four large global manufacturing companies. The order of the data collection is: Firstly, interviews with the individuals that are centrally responsible for overall implementation of lean in the organization. Secondly, observe the implementation of SW and PS at the group level. In total 7 groups have been studied and 19 respondents interviewed.

Findings: Results show that the central definition of the methods for standardized work does not by itself have a direct impact on success of implementation of SW at group level. The method of SW where similar on a general level in the different cases, but with varying levels of implementation at group level was applied. Results also show that key factors for a successful implementation of standardized work on group level are: Ownership of the process, Direct connection to result of process, Correct workload and Leader demand. Methods of PS at group level where dissimilar despite a superficially similar approach. The evaluation method used was successful in providing comparable results between the cases.

Research limitations: A limitation of this research is within the scale of the measurement, as it only examines the group level. The research is further limited to four companies and seven groups.

Originality/value of paper: This paper aims to fill a gap in the established measurement methods of lean, as it examines the abilities of SW and PS at the group level of a process. These abilities are often referred to as essential in lean theory. However, there has been little scholarly work in defining the methods of SW and PS or the key factors affecting the methods at an operational level.
The Relationship between Optimism, Pre-Entrepreneurial Curiosity and Entrepreneurial Curiosity
Authors: Jeraj Mitja
Published: September 2014

Background: Entrepreneurship and entrepreneurs become more and more interesting fields for a scientific research. This paper addresses the relationship between optimism, pre-entrepreneurial curiosity and entrepreneurial curiosity as three determinants of entrepreneurial psychology. Literature review showed optimism is important for entrepreneurs and influence them mostly in a positive way. Although entrepreneurial curiosity is important determinant for entrepreneurs and it was connected with entrepreneurial self-efficacy, openness, and company's growth the connection with optimism remained unexplored until this research.

Methods: A multi-country empirical validation was conducted on a sample of entrepreneurs from Slovenia and USA. A structural equation modelling, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to develop a model, which complement theoretical predisposition and fit the data.

Results: The results of the study show that higher levels of optimism lead to higher levels of pre-entrepreneurial curiosity and higher levels of pre-entrepreneurial curiosity lead to higher levels of entrepreneurial curiosity.

Conclusions: The contribution of this study is manifold. From the theoretical view, a literature gap on the field of optimism and entrepreneurial curiosity combined is fulfilled and a structural equation model with optimism and entrepreneurial curiosity was established. Since openness, pre-entrepreneurial curiosity and entrepreneurial curiosity are related policy makers can test individuals according to their level of researched determinants and motivate more entrepreneurial perspective ones to become active in the entrepreneurship process. Thus, entrepreneurs can use these results to recruit more entrepreneurial oriented employees.
Effects of Transit-Oriented Development on Trip Generation, Distribution, and Mode Share in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland
Authors: Zamir Kiana Roshan , Nasri Arefeh , Baghaei Babak , Mahapatra Subrat , Zhang Lei
Published: September 2014

It is claimed that transit-oriented developments (TODs) have the ability to reduce the number and average lengths of auto trips by providing better nonautomobile accessibility to jobs and other destinations and to encourage sustainable modes (i.e., transit, walking, and biking) by facilitating a pedestrian-friendly environment and transit services. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of TODs in the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland, metropolitan areas that was performed to investigate whether TODs actually have those hypothesized impacts. Trip generation, trip length, and mode share were modeled in the two case study areas through the use of the most recent local household travel survey data and advanced econometric analysis methods. The findings showed that, overall, people living in TODs made more trips by all modes of transportation but fewer trips by auto. The results also showed that TOD residents tended to travel shorter distances by all modes of transportation, a finding that implies the selection of closer destinations for their activities. Trips originating from TODs had substantially higher nonauto mode shares in both Baltimore and Washington, D.C., after relevant socioeconomic and demographic factors were controlled for. Significant differences in the effectiveness of TODs in these two metropolitan areas were also found to be due to TOD locations, transit system availability and level of service, and TOD resident characteristics.
Inducible Costimulator Gene-Transduced Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuate the Severity of Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease in Mouse Models
Authors: Yang Dan , Wang Li-Ping , Zhou Hong , Cheng Hui , Bao Xiao-Chen , Xu Sheng , Zhang Wei-Ping , Wang Jian-Min
Published: September 2014

In murine allogeneic transplantation models, ICOS gene-transduced bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCsICOS-EGFP) were evaluated for their effects on GvHD severity and long-term survival. Lethally irradiated BALB/c or first filial generation of BALB/c and C57BL/6 (CB6F1) mice were transplanted with bone marrow cells and splenocytes from C57BL/6 mice to establish acute GvHD models. Recipient mice were injected with MSCsICOS-EGFP, MSCs, MSCsEGFP, ICOS-Ig fusion protein, MSCs + ICOS-Ig, or PBS (control group). Long-term survival, GvHD rates and severity, CD4+T-cell apoptosis and proliferation, and Th1/Th2/ Th17 effecter cell polarization were evaluated. In the C57BL/6 → CB6F1 HSCT model, the long-term survival in the MSCICOS-EGFPgroup was higher than that in the GvHD group (74.29 ± 7.39% vs. 0, p < 0.01), and this survival rate was also higher than that in the MSC, ICOS-Ig, or MSC + ICOS-Ig groups (42.86 ± 8.36%, p = 0.004; 48.57 ± 8.45%, p = 0.03; or 50.43 ± 8.45% p = 0.04, respectively). The survival advantages of MSCICOS-EGFP-treated group were confirmed in the C57BL/6 → BALB/c HSCT model. In both HSCT models, the low mortality in the MSCICOS-EGFPgroup was associated with lower incidence and severity of acute GvHD. Treatment with MSCsICOS-EGFPinduced more CD4+T-cell apoptosis compared with that in the GvHD group. The effect on CD4+T cells was shown as early as day 2 and maintained until day 14 ( p < 0.05 on days 2, 3, 7, and 14). Furthermore, we demonstrated that MSCsICOS-EGFPwere able to suppress Th1 and Th17 polarization and promote Th2 polarization on both protein expression and gene transcription levels. Higher serum levels of IL-4, IL-10, and lower levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-12, and IL-17A were detected in the MSCICOS-EGFPgroup. The MSCsICOS-EGFPcould also induce GATA-3, STAT6 expression and inhibit T-bet, STAT4, ROR-gt expression. Our results showed that injection of MSCsICOS-EGFPis a promising strategy for acute GvHD prevention and treatment. It provides synergistic benefits of MSC immune modulation and ICOS-B7h pathway blockage.
Hydrophobic interaction governs unspecific adhesion of staphylococci: a single cell force spectroscopy study
Authors: Thewes Nicolas , Loskill Peter , Jung Philipp , Peisker Henrik , Bischoff Markus , Herrmann Mathias , Jacobs Karin
Published: September 2014

Unspecific adhesion of bacteria is usually the first step in the formation of biofilms on abiotic surfaces, yet it is unclear up to now which forces are governing this process. Alongside long-ranged van der Waals and electrostatic forces, short-ranged hydrophobic interaction plays an important role. To characterize the forces involved during approach and retraction of an individual bacterium to and from a surface, single cell force spectroscopy is applied: A single cell of the apathogenic species Staphylococcus carnosus isolate TM300 is used as bacterial probe. With the exact same bacterium, hydrophobic and hydrophilic surfaces can be probed and compared. We find that as far as 50 nm from the surface, attractive forces can already be recorded, an indication of the involvement of long-ranged forces. Yet, comparing the surfaces of different surface energy, our results corroborate the model that large, bacterial cell wall proteins are responsible for adhesion, and that their interplay with the short-ranged hydrophobic interaction of the involved surfaces is mainly responsible for adhesion. The ostensibly long range of the attraction is a result of the large size of the cell wall proteins, searching for contact via hydrophobic interaction. The model also explains the strong (weak) adhesion of S. carnosus to hydrophobic (hydrophilic) surfaces.
Visible light photoredox-catalyzed deoxygenation of alcohols
Authors: Rackl Daniel , Kais Viktor , Kreitmeier Peter , Reiser Oliver
Published: September 2014

Carbon–oxygen single bonds are ubiquitous in natural products whereas efficient methods for their reductive defunctionalization are rare. In this work an environmentally benign protocol for the activation of carbon–oxygen single bonds of alcohols towards a reductive bond cleavage under visible light photocatalysis was developed. Alcohols were activated as 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)-substituted benzoates and irradiation with blue light in the presence of [Ir(ppy)2(dtb-bpy)](PF6) as visible light photocatalyst and Hünig’s base as sacrificial electron donor in an acetonitrile/water mixture generally gave good to excellent yields of the desired defunctionalized compounds. Functional group tolerance is high but the protocol developed is limited to benzylic, α-carbonyl, and α-cyanoalcohols; with other alcohols a slow partial C–F bond reduction in the 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzoate moiety occurs.
Creating a Simulated Mental Health Ward: Lessons Learned
Authors: Rossetti Jeanette , Musker Kathleen , Smyth Siobhan , Byrne Evelyn , Maney Catherine , Selig Kristen , Jones-Bendel Trish
Published: September 2014

The future of psychiatric-mental health nursing depends on the preparation of nurses who will meet the mental health care needs of society. The current article discusses the development of the “Mental Health Ward,” a simulated mental health experience that was offered for the first time to undergraduate baccalaureate nursing students at a Midwestern university in the United States. The Mental Health Ward is an innovative simulated hospital environment that includes the use of standardized patients and role play scenarios, resulting in a full mission simulation whereby students learn various psychiatric diagnoses and practice various pertinent skills, including nursing assessments, admission and discharge processes, medication administration, and therapeutic communication. Lessons learned by faculty and students in formulating the Mental Health Ward are presented. [
Journal of Psychosocial and Mental Health Nursing, 52
(10), 52–58.]
Visual Performance of a New Bi-aspheric, Segmented, Asymmetric Multifocal IOL
Authors: Berrow Emma J. , Wolffsohn James S. , Bilkhu Paramdeep S. , Dhallu Sandeep , Naroo Shehzad A. , Shah Sunil
Published: September 2014

PURPOSE:

To assess the visual performance and subjective experience of eyes implanted with a new bi-aspheric, segmented, multifocal intraocular lens: the Mplus X (Topcon Europe Medical, Capelle aan den IJssel, Netherlands).

METHODS:

Seventeen patients (mean age: 64.0 ± 12.8 years) had binocular implantation (34 eyes) with the Mplus X. Three months after the implantation, assessment was made of: manifest refraction; uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity; uncorrected and distance corrected near visual acuity; defocus curves in photopic conditions; contrast sensitivity; halometry as an objective measure of glare; and patient satisfaction with unaided near vision using the Near Acuity Visual Questionnaire.

RESULTS:

Mean residual manifest refraction was −0.13 ± 0.51 diopters (D). Twenty-five eyes (74%) were within a mean spherical equivalent of ±0.50 D. Mean uncorrected distance visual acuity was +0.10 ± 0.12 logMAR monocularly and 0.02 ± 0.09 logMAR binocularly. Thirty-two eyes (94%) could read 0.3 or better without any reading correction and all patients could read 0.3 or better with a reading correction. Mean monocular uncorrected near visual acuity was 0.18 ± 0.16 logMAR, improving to 0.15 ± 0.15 logMAR with distance correction. Mean binocular uncorrected near visual acuity was 0.11 ± 0.11 logMAR, improving to 0.09 ± 0.12 logMAR with distance correction. Mean binocular contrast sensitivity was 1.75 ± 0.14 log units at 3 cycles per degree, 1.88 ± 0.20 log units at 6 cycles per degree, 1.66 ± 0.19 log units at 12 cycles per degree, and 1.11 ± 0.20 log units at 18 cycles per degree. Mean binocular and monocular halometry showed a glare profile of less than 1° of debilitating light scatter. Mean Near Acuity Visual Questionnaire Rasch score (0 = no difficulty, 100 = extreme difficulty) for satisfaction for near vision was 20.43 ± 14.64 log-odd units.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Mplus X provides a good visual outcome at distance and near with minimal dysphotopsia. Patients were very satisfied with their uncorrected near vision.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(9):584–588.]
Wavefront Analysis After Wavefront-Guided Myopic LASIK Using a New Generation Aberrometer
Authors: Smadja David , De Castro Tania , Tellouck Laury , Tellouck Joy , Lecomte Fanny , Touboul David , Paya Clement , Santhiago Marcony R.
Published: September 2014

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the short-term aberrometric outcomes of wavefront-guided LASIK for the correction of low to moderate myopia and myopic astigmatism using a new generation aberrometer (iDesign System; Abbott Medical Optics, Inc., Santa Ana, CA).

METHODS:

Charts of 92 eyes of 46 patients successively treated by wavefront-guided LASIK for myopia and/or myopic astigmatism were retrospectively reviewed at 3 months postoperatively. Aberrometric analysis of the wavefront errors was performed for a 6-mm pupil diameter to investigate the surgical induction of the total higher-order aberrations (HOAs), spherical aberrations Z
4
1
, and coma-like aberrations Z
3
1
. Additionally, correlations between the magnitude of aberrations induced with the level of achieved correction and the preoperative amount of aberrations were tested.

RESULTS:

A minimal but statistically significant induction in all of the aberrations tested was observed at 3 months postoperatively (
P
< .01), with an increase (calculated for a 6-mm pupil) of +0.12 ± 0.2, +0.06 ± 0.1, and 0.05 ± 0.1 µm in the root mean square (RMS) total HOA, RMS spherical aberration Z
4
1
, and RMS coma Z
3
1
, respectively. The postoperative change in aberrations was poorly correlated with both the level of achieved myopic correction for all of the aberrations tested (
r
< 0.3;
P
< .001) and the preoperative level of spherical aberrations (
r
= 0.3;
P
< .05) and coma (
r
= 0.46;
P
< .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Wavefront-guided LASIK using the new generation Hartmann–Shack aberrometer allows a minimal induction of HOAs regardless of the level of myopic correction achieved or the preoperative magnitude of aberrations.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(9):610–615.]
Quality Mobility Care in Nursing Homes: A Model of Moderating and Mediating Factors to Guide Intervention Development
Authors: Taylor Janice , Sims Jane , Haines Terry P.
Published: September 2014

The current qualitative study aimed to understand factors in mobility care to inform practice improvements. Data were collected at three nursing homes in Melbourne, Australia, via interviews with 10 senior staff and 15 residents, focus groups with 18 direct care staff, and observations of 46 mobility events. Thematic and content analysis of data occurred. Findings included factors (a) intrinsic to residents, (b) intrinsic to staff, and (c) extrinsic to residents and staff, such as equipment and organizational factors. A model describing associations between factors and their roles as moderators and mediators of resident mobility was generated. Staff assistance, residents’ mobility effort, and equipment used during mobility were posited as complete or partial mediators of resident mobility outcomes. Barriers that may compromise the quality of mobility care in nursing homes emerged. The model provides direction for improvements in mobility care that integrate safety, mobility optimization, and person- and relationship-centered care.
[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2014; 7(6):284–291.]