bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reaction of beet genotypes to the Beet Leaf Spot in the upper Valley of Itajaí, Santa Catarina state, Brazil
Authors: Marcuzzo Leandro L , Duarte Tatiana S , Hilleshein Patrícia C , Scheidt Bruno T
Published: January 2015

In the region of the Upper Valley of Itajaí, Santa Catarina state, Brazil, family farmers cultivate beet (Beta vulgaris) along with other products such as, onion. However, some diseases, including the Beet Leaf Spot (Cercospora beticola), have compromised the success of the beet crop due to severe leaf incidence. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reaction to the Beet Leaf Spot, under local conditions, in the spring-summer season, of the beet cultivars most frequently used by farmers in the region, namely All Green, Stays Green, Early Wonder, Cabernet, Boro, Modana and Itapuã. Two experiments, with a 30-day interval between sowings were carried out in EPAGRI, Experimental Station of Ituporanga. The experimental design was of randomized complete blocks with four replications and 2,25 m² plots. Disease severity was assessed weekly, using a diagrammatic rating scale, in ten plants taken at random and previously labelled. Disease severity data were used to calculate the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) for each cultivar. Same plants were used to estimate yield. AUDPC and yield data were submitted to analysis of variance (F-test, 5% probability), and means were studied by the Scott-Knott test (5% probability). There were no significant differences between cultivars, nor for reaction to the disease, neither for yield, in any of the two sowing dates. In both experiments, cultivar All Green scored the highest severity value in the last assessments, 18.46 and 19.84% respectively in the first and second sowing dates, while hybrid Boro (17.79%) in the first experiment, and Stays Green and Cabernet (18.04%) in the second, recorded the lowest values. We concluded that all cultivars were susceptible to the Beet Leaf Spot in spring-summer conditions in the Upper Valley of Itajaí.
Perfil socioeconômico dos consumidores de hortaliças em feiras livres na microrregião de Januária
Authors: Brandão Antônio A , Costa Cândido A , Galizoni Flávia M , Cavalcante Thâmara FM , Neves Ágatha C
Published: January 2015

Os consumidores cada vez mais estão buscando uma alimentação saudável e diversificada, elevando a procura por hortaliças. As hortaliças são encontradas em vários segmentos de mercado, como sacolões, supermercados e também nas feiras livres. Poucas informações existem a respeito da importância das feiras no cotidiano do consumidor que compra hortaliças na região do norte de Minas Gerais. Diante disso o objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar características socioeconômicas de consumidores de hortaliças em feiras livres, nas cidades de Chapada Gaúcha, Itacarambi, Januária e Manga na microrregião de Januária, norte de Minas Gerais. Foram aplicados ao todo 107 questionários nos municípios, de acordo com o volume de pessoas que frequentaram cada feira na respectiva ocasião. Observa-se que a maior parte dos consumidores são mulheres, não aposentados e com idade inferior a 54 anos sendo que em Chapada Gaúcha essa frequência chega a 100%. As pessoas vão à feira semanalmente e a maioria relatou comprar hortaliças somente nas feiras por valorizarem qualidade e tradição; o preço como critério de escolha apresentou pouca influência. A maioria dos consumidores em Itacarambi e Januária, afirmaram gastar mais de R$ 30,00 por ida à feira e em Manga e Chapada Gaúcha gastam entre R$ 10,00 e R$ 20,00. As mulheres foram responsáveis pela compra de hortaliças nas feiras estudadas. A oferta de produtos sem uso de agrotóxicos e fertilizantes químicos gera confiança e fidelização dos consumidores. Há direcionamento na preferência pela compra de algumas espécies na feira livre. Espécies como brócolis e couve-flor foram lembradas por parte dos entrevistados e não são encontradas nas feiras da região com freqüência, indicando oportunidades de diversificação da produção.
Oncidium sarcodes x Oncidium Aloha 'Iwanaga': nova opção de híbrido de Oncidium
Authors: Faria Ricardo T , Colombo Ronan C , Hoshino Rodrigo T
Published: January 2015

O gênero Oncidium apresenta cerca de 315 espécies e centenas de híbridos. O melhoramento genético com espécies nativas, de potencial ornamental, é uma importante estratégia para garantir melhor adaptabilidade das cultivares obtidas às condições brasileiras de cultivo. Dentre elas, a espécie brasileira Oncidium sarcodes, se destaca por longas hastes com flores grandes e amarelas, com máculas marrons. Objetivou-se nesse trabalho caracterizar progênies obtidas da hibridação entre oncidiums, de modo a selecionar uma potencial cultivar. Plantas selecionadas de O. sarcodes foram utilizadas como parental feminino e O. Aloha 'Iwanaga' como parental masculino. Para o cruzamento utilizou-se polinização manual controlada e as sementes obtidas desse cruzamento foram germinadas in vitro. Após o crescimento in vitro e aclimatização das plântulas em casa de vegetação, as mesmas foram transplantadas para vasos com volume de 1000 mL utilizando como substrato casca de pinus e fibra de coco, na proporção de 1:1 (v/v). Para a descrição morfológica dos híbridos selecionou-se 10 progênies, nas quais foram avaliadas as características fitométricas da parte vegetativa e das inflorescências. O florescimento dos híbridos ocorreu aos 48 meses após a germinação, entre os meses de dezembro a janeiro, com flores durando entre 25 e 30 dias. O cruzamento trouxe às flores maior equilíbrio e simetria entre os verticilos florais. As sépalas e as pétalas apresentam coloração amarelo ouro com máculas marrons, com limite bem determinado entre as cores.
BRSIPR Bel: Cultivar de batata para chips com tubérculos de boa aparência
Authors: Pereira Arione S , Nazareno Nilceu RX , Silva Giovani O , Bertoncini Odone , Castro Caroline M , Hirano Élcio , Bortoletto Antonio C , Treptow Rosa O , Dutra Leonardo F , Lima Mirtes F , Gomes César B , Krolow Ana CR , Medeiros Carlos AB , Castro Luis AS , Suinaga Fábio A , Lopes Carlos A , Melo Paulo E
Published: January 2015

'BRSIPR Bel' é uma cultivar de batata para processamento industrial na forma de chips e batata palha, com tubérculos ovalados de aparência atrativa, tendo olhos medianamente rasos, película amarela e lisa, e polpa creme. Apresenta baixo teor de glicose e cor clara de fritura, similares à 'Atlantic'. O ciclo vegetativo é médio-tardio e a dormência é relativamente longa. Apresenta elevado potencial produtivo, com elevada percentagem de tubérculos comerciais, peso específico alto e baixa incidência de tubérculos com desordens fisiológicas. É moderadamente suscetível à Phytophthora infestans que pode ser eficazmente manejada com fungicidas, moderadamente resistente à Alternaria solani e ao vírus Y da batata (PVY).
Dor em cantores populares
Authors: Rocha Clara , Moraes Miriam , Behlau Mara
Published: January 2015

OBJETIVO: Identificar e caracterizar a presença de dores corporais em cantores populares, verificar se há diferença no relato de dor de acordo com o gênero e relacionar com dados referentes a questões vocais e de uso da voz desta população. MÉTODOS: Aplicou-se um questionário autoexplicativo em 100 cantores populares (50 homens e 50 mulheres) que investigou questões referentes a identificação pessoal, uso de voz e presença de dor. As dores foram divididas em dois grupos: dores proximais (ATM, língua, garganta, nuca, ombros, pescoço e para falar) e dores distais (braços, costas/coluna, peito, mãos, ouvido e dor de cabeça). RESULTADOS: A média da presença de dor referida entre os cantores populares foi de 2,9 dores. Não houve diferença no relato de dor de acordo com o gênero. As dores predominantes foram dor de garganta (66%), dor ao falar (41%) e dor no pescoço (35%), todas classificadas como proximais à laringe. As dores menos predominantes foram dor nos braços, mãos e peito (4%), sendo todas estas classificadas como distais. CONCLUSÃO: Cantores populares referem presença de dores corporais, principalmente proximais à região da laringe. Não há diferença no relato de dor de acordo com o gênero. Há relação entre a presença de dor corporal e presença de problemas vocais, necessidade de parar de cantar, falta de treinamento vocal e procura de otorrinolaringologista e fonoaudiólogo por problemas de voz. Estes dados justificam uma investigação e valorização de sintomas de dor pelos profissionais que atendam a esta população.
Effects of impoundment on the body condition of fish in the Manso reservoir, Mato Grosso State, Brazil
Authors: Moura Sandra Maria Lopes de , Kashiwaqui Elaine Antoniassi Luiz , Hahn Norma Segatti
Published: January 2015

AIM: This study evaluated the body condition de Acestrorhynchus pantaneiro, Auchenipterus osteomystax, Pimelodus maculatus, Psectrogaster curviventris and Schizodon borellii in the Manso reservoir, Mato Grosso State, Brazil, during the first years after its formation (years I, II, III and IV). We hypothesized that sudden environmental changes alter differently the body condition, according to the time (sampling years) and sex of individuals. Also, we checked the influence of the amount of food ingested and the reproductive status on nutritional status of the species. METHODS: The body condition (Kn), the feeding activity (SRI) and reproductive (GSI) were calculated only for adults. The difference between the sampling years and sexes (used as factors) was assessed using the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test. Temporal influence was tested by Spearman correlation and the interaction between both factors by PERMANOVA. RESULTS: The values of the Kn showed two groups: group 1: species whose body condition decreased in the year II, with a posterior increase (A. pantaneiro, P. curviventris and S. borelli), considered sensitive to the reservoir filling; group 2: species whose body condition increased in the year II (A. osteomystax and P. maculatus), indicating a more rapid adaptation to new environmental conditions. Still, all parameters investigated were somehow affected by the dam, mainly the body condition and gonadosomatic index for several species. On the other hand, the least affected factor was the feeding activity. CONCLUSIONS: The results did not evidence a same pattern of either increase or decrease of body condition for all species examined, since everything indicates that responses are species-specific. Even with a lack of consistency in some results, we can draw some suggestions for future investigations. Responses to these questions will certainly contribute to aggregate data to help better explain the body condition of fish species in dammed environments.
Epilithic diatoms in headwater areas of the hydrographical sub-basin of the Andreas Stream, RS, Brazil, and their relation with eutrophication processes
Authors: Heinrich Carla Giselda , Leal Valéria Louzada , Düpont Marilia Schuch Adriana , Lobo Eduardo Alcayaga
Published: January 2015

AIM: This research aimed to study the composition of epilithic diatom flora in headwater areas of the sub-basin of the Andreas stream, RS, Brazil, and their relation with eutrophication processes. METHODS: Quarterly excursions (March, June, September, December 2012 and Mach 2013) were performed in ten sampling points selected in the sub-basin, to collect samples for the identification and counting the organisms in the group of diatoms (Class Bacillariophyceae). RESULTS: The results indicated the occurrence of 243 taxa, distributed in 53 genera. Of these, 59 were considered abundant, being distributed in 29 genera. Seven species showed elevated tolerance levels to organic pollution and eutrophication: Adlafia drouetiana (R. M. Patrick) Metzeltin & Lange-Bertalot, Amphipleura lindheimeri Grunow; Fallacia monoculata (Hustedt) D. G. Mann, Navicula cryptotenella Lange-Bertalot, Navicula symmetrica R. M. Patrick, Nitzschia palea (Kützing) W. Smith and Sellaphora auldreekie D. G. Mann & S. M. McDonald in Mann et al. CONCLUSION: Although this research has been conducted in headwater areas, the occurrence of these seven species could be explained by considering the use of these areas for agricultural and livestock purposes, compromising the stability of these aquatic ecosystems, due to the significant contribution of fertilizer and organic matter, a condition that characterizes a process of eutrophication.
Assessment of the physicochemical variables of a subtropical reservoir in the northwest of Argentina
Authors: Concepción Tracanna Beatriz , Martínez De Marco Silvia Nelly , Taboada María de los Ángeles , Mirande Virginia , Gultemirian María de Lourdes , Isasmendi Sara Celina
Published: January 2015

AIM: The Escaba dam is located in the south of the Tucumán province, Argentina, at 650 m above sea level. It has an extension of 541 ha. and a depth of 65 m and its tributaries are the Chavarría, Las Moras, El Chorro and Singuil rivers. The climate is mild with dry winters and rainy summers. The objective of this study was to characterize physicochemical parameters in the limnetic zone of the dam and the mouths of the tributaries to determine the water quality. METHODS: Seasonal sampling was carried out between August 2010 and May 2012. Temperature, transparency, pH and electrical conductivity were field measured, whereas dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), major ion constituents and nitrogen and phosphate compounds were analyzed at the laboratory. RESULTS: The water was classified as sodium-calcium-bicarbonate with neutral to alkaline pH, and thermal stratification during spring and summer. The water assayed was well oxygenated except for the bottom of the limnetic zone during the summer months. Lowest transparency was measured in the El Chorro River in November 2011 (0.12 m) and highest degree of transparency in the Singuil River during the winter of 2010 (4.1 m). The waters assayed showed weak mineralization with conductivities between 83 and 218 µS.cm-1. Maximum BOD5 value (183 mg.L-1) was measured in the Singuil River in spring 2010. Highest values for the different nitrogen compounds were as follows: 7 mg NO3-.L-1 at the bottom of the limnetic zone in August 2010, 0.07 mg NO2-.L-1 in the Las Moras River in May 2011 and 1.8 mg NH4+.L-1 in the Chavarría River in March 2011. During the summer of 2012 orthophosphate reached a value of 0.22 mg.L-1 at the bottom of the limnetic zone. The TN/TP ratio revealed that phosphate was generally the limiting factor and rarely nitrogen. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the TN, TP and transparency parameters the ecosystem was classified as hypertrophic. PCA allowed a seasonal differentiation of the sites, and components 1 and 2 classified the samples according to nutrient gradient, dissolved oxygen, BOD5 and temperature.
Taxonomical and ecological characteristics of the desmids placoderms in reservoir: analyzing the spatial and temporal distribution
Authors: Felisberto Sirlene Aparecida , Rodrigues Liliana , Santos Helivânia Sardinha dos
Published: January 2015

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of river-dam axis and abiotic factors on the composition of Closteriaceae, Gonatozygaceae, Mesotaeniaceae and Peniaceae in a tropical reservoir METHODS: Water samples for physical, chemical and periphyton analysis were collected in April and August 2002 in different regions along the axis of the river-dam of Rosana Reservoir, River Basin Paranapanema. The substrates collected, always in the litoranea region, were petioles of Eichhornia azurea (Swartz) Kunth. To examine the relationship of abiotic variables with reservoir zones and between the floristic composition of desmids, we used principal component analysis (PCA) and canonical correspondence analysis (CCA RESULTS: The results of the PCA explained 81.3% of the total variability in the first two axes. In the first axis, the variables of conductivity, water temperature and the pH were related to the sampling regions of April with higher values, while for the month of August, nitrate, total phosphorus and dissolved oxygen showed higher values. We identified 20 taxa, distributed in the genera Closterium (14), Gonatozygon (4), Netrium (1) and Penium (1). Spatially, the higher taxa were recorded in the lacustrine region for both collection periods. The canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) summarized 62.2% of total data variability of taxa in the first two axes, and in August, Closterium incurvum Brébisson, C. cornu Ehrenberg ex Ralfs and Gonatozygon monotaenium De Bary, were related to higher values of turbidity and nitrate to the lacustrine and intermediate regions CONCLUSION: Thus, the formation of groups was due to the regions along the longitudinal axis, then the seasonal period, which must be related to the low current velocity, the higher values of temperature and the water transparency, especially in late summer
Differential environmental impacts on small and medium size rivers from center of São Paulo State, Brazil, and regional management perspectives
Authors: Oliveira Paula Caroline dos Reis , Nogueira Marcos Gomes , Sartori Luciana Pinto
Published: January 2015

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate, comparatively, the influence of distinct environmental impacts in the watershed on the rivers Capivara, Lavapés, Araquá and Pardo and the transference of effects downstream. METHODS: The limnological/water quality study was carried out in rainy (March/2007) and dry (September/2007) seasons, considering 17 sampling stations. RESULTS: Variables such as channel width and depth, water velocity and temperature increased towards the river's mouth; water transparency, velocity and dissolved oxygen were higher in the upstream regions. Light penetration was total at most sampling stations and pH was predominantly acid. The sampling stations impacted by pollution sources, Lavapés and Araquá Rivers, exhibited higher values of electric conductivity, suspended solids, total nitrogen, nitrate, nitrite, ammonium, total dissolved phosphorus, BOD, and thermotolerant coliforms. Higher values of electric conductivity, turbidity and suspended solids were observed in the rainy season, whereas higher chlorophyll concentrations occurred in the dry season. The Lavapés River exhibits the worst environmental condition, while Capivara River is under better state of conservation. This study shows that it is urgent the implementation of measures for preservation and restoration of these regional aquatic ecosystems. All studied rivers were influenced by seasonal variation, sewage discharges and by watershed use and occupation. The TSI is a good analysis tool. The studied rivers export organic matter and TN, TP and SS loads to Tietê and Paranapanema rivers. CONCLUSIONS: This study show the importance of river management and that the accelerated degradation of the river systems indicates the little progress of the Brazilian legislation in terms of preservation and good management practices and that the interface between science, law, management and conservation need to be improved.
Limnological characterisation and phytoplankton seasonal variation in a subtropical shallow lake (Guaiba Lake, Brazil): a long-term study
Authors: Andrade Rodrigo da Rocha , Giroldo Danilo
Published: January 2015

AIM: to provide a long-term limnological characterisation of a subtropical shallow lake in addition to verifying seasonal differences, including phytoplankton variation. METHODS: monthly sampling at sites IP, SJ and MD from 2000 to 2009 to analyse temperature - T; depth - Z; the depth of the euphotic zone - Zeu; Zeu/Z (%); total suspended solids - TSS; dissolved oxygen - DO; pH; electrical conductivity - EC; N-NH3, N-NO2, N-NO3; soluble reactive phosphorus - SRP; chlorophyll a - Chl-a and phytoplankton. RESULTS: low values of Z and Zeu characterised the shallow and turbid conditions of lake and corresponded to the contribution of nano-microflagellates (Chlamydomonas sp., Spermatozopsis sp., Cryptomonas sp. and Rhodomonas sp ) and diatoms (Aulacoseira granulata). Zeu/Z (%), SRP and Chl-a were significantly different at site IP (meso-eutrophic) compared to sites SJ and MD (eutrophic). Phytoplankton density was also significantly higher at sites SJ and MD, and the largest relative contribution of Actinastrum sp., Dictyosphaerium sp., Micractinium sp., Monoraphidium sp., Scenedesmus/Desmodesmus sp. and Euglena sp. corresponded to the most polluted waters at site SJ. The significantly higher T (ºC) in summer corresponded to significantly higher Chl-a as well as a greater richness and density of phytoplankton. Cocconeis sp., Gomphonema sp. and Pinnularia sp. (pennated diatoms) were negatively correlated with temperature and were therefore more representative at the three sites in winter. Asterionella formosa was correlated with SRP and vernal blooms were recorded (2000-2001). Planktothrix isothrix and Planktothricoides raciborskii were expressive in the summer/late summer (2004-2005), and were significantly correlated with Chl-a and low SRP in water column. CONCLUSIONS: The study corroborated the sensitivity of phytoplankton in characterising different stages of eutrophication at different sites and corresponding watersheds as well as in characterising different seasons in a shallow lake in the subtropical zone of Brazil.
Behaviour of short-fibre-reinforced composite in bending shear
Authors: Ghosh Saibal Kumar , Bhattacharjya Soumya , Chakraborty Subrata
Published: January 2015

The most important parameters studied in the analysis of short-fibre-reinforced concrete (SFRC) are the tensile and flexural strength as these parameters predominantly dictate the behaviour of the composite. Studies regarding shear behaviour receive comparatively lesser attention, but knowledge of the stress–strain history under shear is important in order to understand the behaviour of a beam under bending and that of a structure under the combined loading action that accompanies shear. There have been many studies focusing on the semi-empirical relationship for peak strength of SFRC, but literature addressing full analytical shear stress–strain history prediction is scarce. An analytical model is proposed herein for predicting the analytical stress–strain history of the composite in web–shear. The formulation is developed in a composite material approach by employing basic micromechanics to describe the phenomenon in terms of the constitutive properties of the fibre, matrix and fibre matrix interface and their proportioning. The validity of the proposed analytical model was compared with the results of an experimental study and the existing model for aspect ratio in the range of 40 to 160 and was found to be in good agreement.
Briefing: Usage of textile dye waste water in concrete
Authors: Badjatya Palash , Bhadada Radhika , Keshri Manish , Nanthagopalan Prakash
Published: January 2015

About 2 000 000 billion litres of water is consumed globally every year. The amount of potable water available is reducing due to pollution of various water bodies. The textile industry waste water is one of the sources of pollution. There are problems associated with handling dye waste water, with the treatment process, and with several environmental problems that also occur. On the other hand, about 700 million litres of potable water is used for the production of concrete. Using the waste dye water in concrete reduces the overall water consumption and at the same time it provides a solution to the dye waste water disposal problem, making it beneficial in socioeconomic as well as environmental terms. This study explored the possibility of 100% replacement of potable water with textile dye waste water in cement concrete. The preliminary study indicated that the fresh and hardened properties of concrete made using potable water and textile dye waste water (untreated water) are comparable.
Standards for usable and safe environments for sight impaired
Authors: Tennøy Aud , Øksenholt Kjersti Visnes , Fearnley Nils , Matthews Bryan
Published: January 2015

When revising national standards and guidelines facilitating for sight-impaired people in transport systems, Norwegian authorities needed an assessment of current standards and practices. Two issues concerning design of streetscapes and public transport stops were of particular concern for the authorities: tactile paving seems to be laid out in situations in which more thoughtful design with natural leading elements could better have ensured usability, accessibility and safety for sight impaired; and there is a lack of consistency where tactile paving is laid out, causing potentially dangerous situations. The aim of this paper is to discuss how and why qualities of standards and guidelines, as well as of current practices, contribute to planning and design processes producing such results, and furthermore to arrive at recommendations for improving the situation.
Demographic heterogeneity and the dynamics of open populations
Authors: Noonburg Erik G. , Chen Adam , Shima Jeffrey S. , Swearer Stephen E.
Published: January 2015

Individuals vary in their phenotype and propensity for growth and survival, but the demographic consequences of this remain poorly understood. We extend previous theoretical work on benthic marine populations and formulate a new model to evaluate how demographic heterogeneity among newly settled reef fish affects population stability. We simulated settlement, growth, and mortality of a small reef fish, the common triplefin (Forsterygion lapillum) in an open “subpopulation” using a delay‐differential equation model framework. We modeled demographic heterogeneity with a discrete number of “quality” types, motivated by our previous empirical observations: individuals were either “high quality” (immigrants from nearby subpopulations) or “low quality” (immigrants from distant subpopulations); in our model, quality influences how quickly individuals develop at a given competitor density. Our results demonstrate how demographic heterogeneity and juvenile competition interact to qualitatively alter the effects of settlement on population stability. Specifically, our model suggests that a mixture of quality types can stabilize the equilibrium even when equal settlement of either type alone would result in an unstable equilibrium. These results highlight the importance of among‐individual variation in a metapopulation context, and suggest that in systems where dispersal influences individual quality, connectivity may serve to stabilize local populations.
The RabGAP TBC1D1 Plays a Central Role in Exercise-Regulated Glucose Metabolism in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Stöckli Jacqueline , Meoli Christopher C. , Hoffman Nolan J. , Fazakerley Daniel J. , Pant Himani , Cleasby Mark E. , Ma Xiuquan , Kleinert Maximilian , Brandon Amanda E. , Lopez Jamie A. , Cooney Gregory J. , James David E.
Published: January 2015

Insulin and exercise stimulate glucose uptake into skeletal muscle via different pathways. Both stimuli converge on the translocation of the glucose transporter GLUT4 from intracellular vesicles to the cell surface. Two Rab guanosine triphosphatases-activating proteins (GAPs) have been implicated in this process: AS160 for insulin stimulation and its homolog, TBC1D1, are suggested to regulate exercise-mediated glucose uptake into muscle. TBC1D1 has also been implicated in obesity in humans and mice. We investigated the role of TBC1D1 in glucose metabolism by generating TBC1D1−/− mice and analyzing body weight, insulin action, and exercise. TBC1D1−/− mice showed normal glucose and insulin tolerance, with no difference in body weight compared with wild-type littermates. GLUT4 protein levels were reduced by ∼40% in white TBC1D1−/− muscle, and TBC1D1−/− mice showed impaired exercise endurance together with impaired exercise-mediated 2-deoxyglucose uptake into white but not red muscles. These findings indicate that the RabGAP TBC1D1 plays a key role in regulating GLUT4 protein levels and in exercise-mediated glucose uptake in nonoxidative muscle fibers.
Blunted Brain Energy Consumption Relates to Insula Atrophy and Impaired Glucose Tolerance in Obesity
Authors: Jauch-Chara Kamila , Binkofski Ferdinand , Loebig Michaela , Reetz Kathrin , Jahn Gianna , Melchert Uwe H. , Schweiger Ulrich , Oltmanns Kerstin M.
Published: January 2015

Brain energy consumption induced by electrical stimulation increases systemic glucose tolerance in normal-weight men. In obesity, fundamental reductions in brain energy levels, gray matter density, and cortical metabolism, as well as chronically impaired glucose tolerance, suggest that disturbed neuroenergetic regulation may be involved in the development of overweight and obesity. Here, we induced neuronal excitation by anodal transcranial direct current stimulation versus sham, examined cerebral energy consumption with 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and determined systemic glucose uptake by euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic glucose clamp in 15 normal-weight and 15 obese participants. We demonstrate blunted brain energy consumption and impaired systemic glucose uptake in obese compared with normal-weight volunteers, indicating neuroenergetic dysregulation in obese humans. Broadening our understanding of reduced multifocal gray matter volumes in obesity, our findings show that reduced appetite- and taste-processing area morphometry is associated with decreased brain energy levels. Specifically, gray matter volumes of the insula relate to brain energy content in obese participants. Overall, our results imply that a diminished cerebral energy supply may underlie the decline in brain areas assigned to food intake regulation and therefore the development of obesity.
Overweight in Mice and Enhanced Adipogenesis In Vitro Are Associated With Lack of the Hedgehog Coreceptor Boc
Authors: Lee Hye-Jin , Jo Shin-Bum , Romer Anthony I. , Lim Hyo-Jeong , Kim Min-Jung , Koo Seung-Hoi , Krauss Robert S. , Kang Jong-Sun
Published: January 2015

Obesity arises from a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. However, the processes that regulate white adipose tissue (WAT) expansion at the level of the adipocyte are not well understood. The Hedgehog (HH) pathway plays a conserved role in adipogenesis, inhibiting fat formation in vivo and in vitro, but it has not been shown that mice with reduced HH pathway activity have enhanced adiposity. We report that mice lacking the HH coreceptor BOC displayed age-related overweight and excess WAT. They also displayed alterations in some metabolic parameters but normal food intake. Furthermore, they had an exacerbated response to a high-fat diet, including enhanced weight gain and adipocyte hypertrophy, livers with greater fat accumulation, and elevated expression of genes related to adipogenesis, lipid metabolism, and adipokine production. Cultured Boc−/− mouse embryo fibroblasts showed enhanced adipogenesis relative to Boc+/+ cells, and they expressed reduced levels of HH pathway target genes. Therefore, a loss-of-function mutation in an HH pathway component is associated with WAT accumulation and overweight in mice. Variant alleles of such HH regulators may contribute to WAT accumulation in human individuals with additional genetic or lifestyle-based predisposition to obesity.
Enhancement of Hypothalamic STAT3 Acetylation by Nuclear Receptor Nur77 Dictates Leptin Sensitivity
Authors: Chen Yan , Wu Rong , Chen Hang-zi , Xiao Qian , Wang Wei-jia , He Jian-ping , Li Xiao-xue , Yu Xian-wen , Li Li , Wang Peng , Wan Xi-chen , Tian Xin-hua , Li Shu-jing , Yu Xiang , Wu Qiao
Published: January 2015

Leptin, an anorexigenic hormone in the hypothalamus, suppresses food intake and increases energy expenditure. Failure to respond to leptin will lead to obesity. Here, we discovered that nuclear receptor Nur77 expression is lower in the hypothalamus of obese mice compared with normal mice. Injection of leptin results in significant reduction in body weight in wild-type mice but not in Nur77 knockout (KO) littermates or mice with specific Nur77 knockdown in the hypothalamus. Hypothalamic Nur77 not only participates in leptin central control of food intake but also expands leptin’s reach to liver and adipose tissues to regulate lipid metabolism. Nur77 facilitates signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) acetylation by recruiting acetylase p300 and disassociating deacetylase histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) to enhance the transcriptional activity of STAT3 and consequently modulates the expression of downstream gene Pomc in the hypothalamus. Nur77 deficiency compromises response to leptin in mice fed a high-fat diet. Severe leptin resistance in Nur77 KO mice with increased appetite, lower energy expenditure, and hyperleptinemia contributes to aging-induced obesity. Our study opens a new avenue for regulating metabolism with Nur77 as the positive modulator in the leptin-driven antiobesity in the hypothalamus.
A Mutant Allele Encoding DNA Binding–Deficient FoxO1 Differentially Regulates Hepatic Glucose and Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Cook Joshua R. , Matsumoto Michihiro , Banks Alexander S. , Kitamura Tadahiro , Tsuchiya Kyoichiro , Accili Domenico
Published: January 2015

Insulin signaling in the liver blunts glucose production and stimulates triglyceride biosynthesis. FoxO1 is required for cAMP induction of hepatic glucose production and is permissive for the effect of insulin to suppress this process. Moreover, FoxO1 ablation increases lipogenesis. In this study, we investigated the pleiotropic actions of FoxO1 on glucose and lipid metabolism. To this end, we reconstituted FoxO1 function in mice with a liver-specific deletion of Foxo1 using targeted knock-in of an allele encoding a DNA binding–deficient FoxO1 mutant (L-DBD). Chow-reared L-DBD mice showed defects in hepatic glucose production but normal liver triglyceride content despite increased rates of de novo lipogenesis and impaired fatty acid oxidation in isolated hepatocytes. Gene expression studies indicated that FoxO1 regulates the expression of glucokinase via a cell-nonautonomous coregulatory mechanism, while its regulation of glucose-6-phosphatase proceeds via a cell-autonomous action as a direct transcriptional activator. These conclusions support a differential regulation of hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism by FoxO1 based on the mechanism by which it alters the expression of key target genes involved in each process.
Insulin Resistance Predicts Medial Temporal Hypermetabolism in Mild Cognitive Impairment Conversion to Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Willette Auriel A. , Modanlo Nina , Kapogiannis Dimitrios ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: January 2015

Alzheimer disease (AD) is characterized by progressive hypometabolism on [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) scans. Peripheral insulin resistance (IR) increases AD risk. No studies have examined associations between FDG metabolism and IR in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD, as well as MCI conversion to AD. We studied 26 cognitively normal (CN), 194 MCI (39 MCI-progressors, 148 MCI-stable, 2 years after baseline), and 60 AD subjects with baseline FDG-PET from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. Mean FDG metabolism was derived for AD-vulnerable regions of interest (ROIs), including lateral parietal and posteromedial cortices, medial temporal lobe (MTL), hippocampus, and ventral prefrontal cortices (vPFC), as well as postcentral gyrus and global cerebrum control regions. The homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR) was used to measure IR. For AD, higher HOMA-IR predicted lower FDG in all ROIs. For MCI-progressors, higher HOMA-IR predicted higher FDG in the MTL and hippocampus. Control regions showed no associations. Higher HOMA-IR predicted hypermetabolism in MCI-progressors and hypometabolism in AD in medial temporal regions. Future longitudinal studies should examine the pathophysiologic significance of the shift from MTL hyper- to hypometabolism associated with IR.
Foregut Exclusion Disrupts Intestinal Glucose Sensing and Alters Portal Nutrient and Hormonal Milieu
Authors: Pal Atanu , Rhoads David B. , Tavakkoli Ali
Published: January 2015

The antidiabetes effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are well-known, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Isolating the proximal small intestine, and in particular its luminal glucose sensors, from the nutrient stream has been proposed as a critical change, but the pathways involved are unclear. In a rodent model, we tested the effects of isolating and then stimulating a segment of proximal intestine using glucose analogs to examine their impact on glucose absorption (Gabsorp) and hormone secretion after a glucose bolus into the distal jejunum. Analogs selective for sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) family members and the sweet taste receptor were tested, and measurements of the portosystemic gradient were used to determine Gabsorp and hormone secretion, including GLP-1. Proximal intestinal isolation reduced Gabsorp and GLP-1 secretion. Stimulation of the glucose-sensing protein SGLT3 increased Gabsorp and GLP-1 secretion. These effects were abolished by vagotomy. Sweet taste receptor stimulation only increased GLP-1 secretion. This study suggests a novel role for SGLT3 in coordinating intestinal function, as reflected by the concomitant modulation of Gabsorp and GLP-1 secretion, with these effects being mediated by the vagus nerve. Our findings provide potential mechanistic insights into foregut exclusion in RYGB and identify SGLT3 as a possible antidiabetes therapeutic target.
Laboratory Assignments and Their Impact on Final Examination Grades: An Online Research Methods/Statistics Course
Authors: Stack Steven John
Published: January 2015

Over the last decade, enrollment in online courses has tripled. However, the delivery of online sections of courses that typically require laboratory work on campus can present a challenge. The present study has two goals: (1) describe the laboratory assignments for an online version of an undergraduate research methods course, and (2) assess the extent to which learning in the laboratory assignments is related to grades on the final examination. Participants were 108 students completing an online course in research methods/statistics in a Carnegie Research Extensive University. Students chose a sample of 40 offenders from an online public database, the Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS), entered the data into an Excel file, and used the Excel® Data Analysis Toolkit to produce both descriptive statistics and to test a series of hypotheses including the predictors of violent offending. The dependent variable is the scores on the final examination, and the independent variable was the grades received on six laboratory assignments. Control variables included grades on a preliminary 1-hr examination and sex. In a bivariate regression, laboratory and grades explained 13% of the variance in final examination grades. However, in a multiple regression analysis, controlling for other variables, the grade on the laboratory assignments was unrelated to final examination grades. The model explained 47% of the variance in final examination grades. Standard laboratory assignments were successfully delivered in an online environment, but grades on laboratory assignments were not an independent predictor of final examination grades. Further work is needed for other fields and educational contexts.
Examining Choking in Basketball: Effects of Game Outcome and Situational Variables during Last 5 Minutes and Overtimes
Authors: Gómez Miguel ángel , Lorenzo Alberto , Jiménez Sergio , Navarro Rafael M. , Sampaio Jaime
Published: January 2015

This study examined choking in basketball by identifying the effects of game outcome and situational variables during the last 5 min. and overtimes of close games. The sample consisted of two 5 min. segments (last 5 min. of the game, n = 147, of which 97 did not go into overtime; 5 min. of overtime, n = 50) drawn from 147 games from the Spanish Professional Basketball League (2007 to 2011). The following game-related statistics were gathered: 3- and 2-point field goals and free-throws (both successful and unsuccessful), offensive and defensive rebounds, assists, recovered balls, turnovers, blocks (both made and received), and fouls committed and received. The results suggested the need to account for the temporal structure and multi-skilled nature of the task when devising appropriate interventions.
Modelling and Motion Analysis of Five-Bar 5R Mechanism
Authors: Budniak Z. , Bil T.
Published: January 2015

This article presents the use of the potential of the present-day CAD/CAE systems in modelling and a kinematic analysis of a spatial five-membered lever mechanism 5R. A simulation model was developed. On the grounds of the methodology developed, numerical analysis was conducted. The results of the analysis are presented in diagrams.
Determining the Errors in Output Kinematic Parameters of Planar Mechanisms with a Complex Structure
Authors: Trzaska W.
Published: January 2015

The study is focused on determining the errors in output kinematic parameters (position, velocity, acceleration, jerk) of entire links or their selected points in complex planar mechanisms. The number of DOFs of the kinematic system is assumed to be equal to the number of drives and the rigid links are assumed to be connected by ideal, clearance-free geometric constraints. Input data include basic parameters of the mechanism with the involved errors as well as kinematic parameters of driving links and the involved errors. Output errors in kinematic parameters are determined basing on the linear theory of errors.
Porous Squeeze Film Bearing with Rough Surfaces Lubricated by a Bingham Fluid
Authors: Walicka A. , Walicki E. , Jurczak P. , Falicki J.
Published: January 2015

In the paper the effect of both bearing surfaces and the porosity of one bearing surface on the pressure distribution and load-carrying capacity of a squeeze film bearing is discussed. The equations of motion of a Bingham fluid in a bearing clearance and in a porous layer are presented. Using the Morgan-Cameron approximation and Christensen theory of rough lubrication the modified Reynolds equation is obtained. The analytical solutions of this equation for a squeeze film bearing are presented. As a result one obtains the formulae expressing pressure distribution and load-carrying capacity. A thrust radial bearing is considered as a numerical example.
Kinematic Analysis of Cpm Machine Supporting to Rehabilitation Process after Surgical Knee Arthroscopy and Arthroplasty
Authors: Trochimczuk R. , Kuźmierowski T.
Published: January 2015

Existing commercial solutions of the CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) machines are described in the paper. Based on the analysis of existing solutions we present our conceptual solution to support the process of rehabilitation of the knee joint which is necessary after arthroscopic surgery. For a given novel structure we analyze and present proprietary algorithms and the computer application to simulate the operation of our PCM device. In addition, we suggest directions for further research.
Drought Severity and its Effect on Agricultural Production in the Hungarian-Serbian Cross-Border Area
Authors: Fiala Károly , Blanka Viktória , Ladányi Zsuzsanna , Szilassi Péter , Benyhe Balázs , Dolinaj Dragan , Pálfai Imre
Published: January 2015

Several environmental and economic consequences of drought and the accompanying water shortage were observed in the plain area of the Carpathian Basin in the last decades. This area is mostly used for agriculture, thus it is a key problem in the future to maintain food safety in the changing circumstances. Therefore, involvement and identification of areas affected by drought hazard and revealing steps of efficient adaptation are of high importance. In this study influence of drought severity on agricultural production is investigated in the Hungarian-Serbian cross-border area. The tendency in drought severity was analysed by PaDI and MAI drought indices. The effect of drought on agricultural production is evaluated on maize yield data as the most drought sensitive crop in the region. Increasing drought frequency and severity was indicated for the study area for the period of 1961-2012. The spatial assessment of annual PaDI maps revealed the higher exposure of the north and northeastern part of the study area to drought, where drought frequency was also experienced to be the highest. Increased sensitivity was detected based on maize yield loss after the early 1990s and annual yields were in strong connection with d rought severity. In spite of the technological development of agriculture, environmental factors still substantially affect crop yie lds. The observed unfavourable changes in the region mean that water management and spatial planning faces conceptual challenges to prevent and mitigate the damages of drought.
Nonlinear Stability Of Free Thin Films: Thermocapillary And Van-Der-Waals Effects
Authors: Tabakova S. , Radev S.
Published: January 2015

In the present work the dynamics of a non-isothermal thin viscous film, with fully mobile interfaces, is studied in the case when the inertial, viscous, capillary, van der Waals and thermocapillary forces are important. The film is laterally bounded by a frame, whose temperature is higher than the environmental one. The stability of the static film shapes is examined numerically by a linear and non-linear analysis. The results show that the film rupture is mostly governed by the dynamics, but it could be delayed or enhanced by the thermocapillary convection and the heat transfer with the surrounding environment.
Taxonomic features of fruits and seeds of Nymphaea and Nuphar taxa of the Southern Baltic region
Authors: Latowski Karol , Toma Cezary , Dąbrowska Magdalena , Zviedre Egita
Published: January 2015

Research was carried out on fruits and seeds of Nymphaea and Nuphar taxa collected from Poland, Latvia and Estonia. The aim of the research was to establish diagnostic features which could enable identification of the examined taxa on the basis of the fruit and seed structure and creating a key to identify them. The examined organs were observed through an optic microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). New diagnostic features were discovered: spotting of fresh pericarp, the range of the fruit shape coefficient, the colour of the rays in the fruit stigma disc, the thickness of the seed testa, ribs in the seeds, and occurrence of the “puzzle shaped” cells on the surface of the testa. The discovered features were used in the taxonomic characteristics.
The concept of triple Helix extended model in Lodz in the light of own work
Authors: Trippner-Hrabi Justyna
Published: January 2015

The functioning and development of enterprises are determined by transferring up-to-date knowledge into their structures. Therefore, entities being market leaders should enter into cooperation with scientific units which are providers of new solutions as well technical as organizational ones. Such cooperation in the region should be carried out with the participation of local authorities whose job is multi-dimensional and long-term support for the parties involved
Local partnerships in the social security system of the region
Authors: Łoś-Tomiak Anna
Published: January 2015

This paper looks at the state of social security through the lens of the local cross-sector partnerships. The foundations of cooperation undertaken by NGOs and the local government have been determined. The analysis was made on the example of the cooperation between the city of Zielona Góra and the NGO sector in the years 2009-2013