bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelagem dinâmica espacial das alterações de cobertura e uso da terra relacionadas à expansão canavieira
Authors: Macedo Rodrigo de Campos , Almeida Cláudia Maria de , Santos João Roberto dos , Rudorff Bernardo Friedrich Theodor
Published: June 2013

A avaliação das mudanças na paisagem é fundamental para a eficiência na gestão territorial. O objetivo deste trabalho é parametrizar e calibrar um modelo de mudança de cobertura e uso, além de validar as simulações associadas à expansão canavieira em Arealva-SP, no período compreendido entre 2005 e 2010. Os mapas inicial e final foram corregistrados e, após a rasterização, foi realizada uma tabulação cruzada, gerando-se um mapa de mudanças e a respectiva matriz de transição. O modelo adotado foi o Dinamica EGO, e seu desempenho foi avaliado por meio de um método baseado no conceito de incerteza de localização (fuzziness of location), no qual a representação de uma célula é influenciada por ela mesma, e, em menor magnitude, pela sua vizinhança. Há predominância de pastagens e baixo índice de área de vegetação nativa. As mudanças mais relevantes estão relacionadas à expansão canavieira e à retração de pastagens. O valor da similaridade fuzzy entre o mapa simulado e o mapa-referência, para a janela de tamanho 11x11 e função de decaimento constante, foi de 0.52. Foi possível aprimorar o conhecimento dos fatores direcionadores das mudanças de cobertura e uso, propiciando a revelação das forçantes dessas mudanças.
Uso de simuladores de direção aplicado ao projeto de segurança viária
Authors: Lucas Felipe Rabay , Russo Luis Eduardo Abrantes , Kawashima Renata Sayuri , Figueira Aurenice da Cruz , Larocca Ana Paula C. , Kabbach Jr. Felipe Issa
Published: June 2013

O presente documento apresenta e discute tecnologias de visualização por meio de simuladores de direção e sua aplicação na engenharia de transportes, no que tange o projeto rodoviário e seu auxílio na melhoria da segurança das rodovias. O artigo foi elaborada com vistas a contribuir para o desenvolvimento e modernização tecnológica de parte dos estudos desenvolvidos no Brasil, relacionados com a segurança em rodovias, que se apresentam desatualizados em quase 15 anos em relação ao estado-da-arte desta linha de pesquisa em países pioneiros, como é o caso dos EUA, França, Itália, Alemanha. Esta desatualização culmina por contribuir para um cenário nacional trágico, onde, nos últimos dois anos, morreram 42.844 pessoas decorrentes de acidentes em trânsito - número que colocou as rodovias brasileiras entre as mais perigosas do mundo e o Brasil como 5º país entre os recordistas em mortes no trânsito. Apresenta inicialmente uma descrição técnica e as potencialidades e limitações dos simuladores de direção na condução de experimentos que apresentam realismo natural, com a vantagem do controle das diversas variáveis do estudo, sem risco aos usuários. Adicionalmente, descreve os principais tipos de simuladores de direção existentes no mercado, com a caracterização dos três níveis de sofisticação - simuladores de nível básico, nível intermediário e alta fidelidade.
Etiology and pathogenicity of two different isolates of Colletotrichum spp. obtained from physic nut seeds
Authors: Santos Gil Rodrigues dos , Tozze Júnior Hugo José , Sá Danila Alves Corrêa de , Furtado Gleiber Quintão , Massola Júnior Nelson Sidnei
Published: June 2013

The species known as physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.) has become important as one of main sources of feedstock for biodiesel production. The aims of this study were characterizing two different isolates of Colletotrichum spp. obtained from seeds of this species, through morphological, cultural, and molecular analyses; as well as assessing pathogenicity of both isolates on leaves and fruit of this plant species. For morphological analysis, length and width of 30 spores of each isolate, produced on medium Malt Extract-Agar (MEA), at 25 ± 1 ºC, and under constant light, were measured. Cultural analysis was performed by the fungus growth on PDA medium, through daily measurements of the mycelial growth, and the color of colonies after seven days incubation. DNA of the isolates was extracted and specific oligonucleotides primers (region ITS4) were identified by PCR and used to identify C. capsici (CcInt) and C. gloeosporioides (CgInt). Pathogenicity of isolates was assessed on plants aged 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 days after sowing and fruits at six maturation stages. Based on these analyses, isolates were identified as C. gloeosporioides and C. capsici. Young plants and the older fruits were more susceptible to infection by the two fungus species.
Physiological quality of soybean seeds of cultivars submitted to harvesting delay and its association with seedling emergence in the field
Authors: Diniz Fábio Oliveira , Reis Múcio Silva , Dias Luiz Antônio dos Santos , Araújo Eduardo Fontes , Sediyama Tuneo , Sediyama Camilla Atsumi
Published: June 2013

With the aim of studying the relationship between the physiological quality of soybean seeds submitted to three harvest times and seedling emergence in the field, seeds of cultivars UFV-16, Splendor, Vencedora, Confiança, UFV-18, UFV-TN 105, Garantia and Celeste were harvested at stages R8, R8+15 and R8+30 days. The following tests were performed: accelerated aging, electrical conductivity, emergence in sand, emergence speed index and seedling emergence in the field. Germination and vigor were reduced in seeds harvested at 30 days after stage R8 in all the tests, except for the accelerated aging test, which showed a decline in vigor seeds harvested with a delay of 15 days. Seeds of cultivars UFV-16, Confiança and Garantia showed lower physiological quality in most tests, while the seeds of cultivar Celeste had higher physiological quality than the others. There was similarity between the test results of seed quality and seedling emergence in the field.
Performance of common bean seeds infected by the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Botelho Luana da Silva , Zancan Willian Luis Antonio , Machado José da Cruz , Barrocas Ellen Noly
Published: June 2013

The fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, causal agent of white mold disease on several economically important crops, such as bean, soybean, and cotton, is commonly disseminated through seeds and can cause high losses on their quality and in productivity of these species. The aim of this study was assessing the effects of different initial inoculums potentials of this fungus on common bean seeds using two different strains of the fungus and two genotypes of common beans (Pérola and Ouro Negro) artificially inoculated. Seeds were sown on soil and the cultivation was performed under controlled environmental conditions favorable to development of the white mold disease. Variables assessed were: germination; seed health; emergence speed index; initial and final seedling number; and dry weight of aerial parts and roots. It was found that with the gradual increase in inoculum potential in the seeds also occurred gradual reduction in the values of: germination; emergence speed index; seedling stand; and length and dry mass of aerial parts and roots. These results show the importance of initial inoculum potential of S. sclerotiorum present in common bean seeds, as much in disseminating the pathogen as on direct damages caused in field by reducing productive potential of the emerged plants.
Coefficient of variation of normal seedlings obtained from the validation of methods for the seed germination testing of 20 species belonging to the family Fabaceae
Authors: Pereira Vanderley José , Santana Denise Garcia
Published: June 2013

The standardization of inter-laboratory results of germination test of forest species seeds requires that the methods be robust. Therefore, the objective was to compare and discuss, through the coefficient of variation for normal seedlings, the variabilities present in the process of validation methods obtained in the germination test for seeds of 20 species of the family Fabaceae. Coefficients of variation for the experiment by lot and by laboratory were calculated for normal seedlings from the statistical analysis of method validations. For normal seedlings of 20 Brazilian forest species, the coefficients of variation are low (up to 9.84%), to average (up to 17.66%), contrary to expectations due to high genetic variability in these barely improved species. The increase of the coefficient is not related to treatment for breaking dormancy, but it grows as the lot quality decreases. The high coefficients by laboratory, overestimated by the lot effect, are uniform indicating that the methods are repeatable. The coefficient is not an indicator capable of predicting the heterogeneity of model variance. As normal distribution models random events, randomness is present in the validation process of the 20 forest species of the Fabaceae family.
Anatomical and histochemical aspects of the peach palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth) seed
Authors: Nazário Patrícia , Ferreira Sidney Alberto do Nascimento , Borges Eduardo Euclydes de Lima e , Genovese-Marcomini Poliana Roverse , Mendonça Maria Sílvia de
Published: June 2013

Bactris gasipaes Kunth (peach palm) is a palm tree (Arecaceae) widely used by Amazon people, whose seeds have dormancy of unknown cause, which result in difficulties on producing uniform seedlings. This study aimed at identifying anatomical and histochemical aspects of peach palm seeds that may have influence on germination. Histological sections were performed with seed material embedded into hystoresin, which were then stained with toluidine blue and assessed under optical microscope to verify structural characteristics. Histological sections were manually performed to identify primary and secondary metabolites; and histochemical test were performed for fatty acids, alkaloids, starch, phenolic compounds, lignin, neutral and acidic lipids, pectins, polysaccharides, proteins, tannins, and terpenoids. Tegument is thin and contains two layers. The external layer is thicker and has vascular bundles; and the internal layer is thinner containing irregular cells replete of phenolic compounds. Endosperm is whitish in color, with cells with shapes that vary from oblong or ellipsoidal until oval; containing lipids, proteins, pectins, and polysaccharides. Embryo is relatively small as related to seed size, conical and vascularized at distal portion. On longitudinal sections, plumule appears in proximal region as three foliar primordia. At seedling protrusion region the cells contain acidic lipids, proteins, and neutral polysaccharides.
Effects of phosphine fumigation on the quality of soybean seeds
Authors: Krzyzanowski Francisco Carlos , Lorini Irineu , França-Neto José de Barros , Henning Ademir Assis
Published: June 2013

Fumigation is a technique employed to eliminate insect pests in stored seeds by using gas. The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the effect of the gas phosphine on germination and on vigor (accelerated aging and seedling length) of soybean seeds. Soybean seeds of two cultivars with two vigor levels were used. Each treatment was replicated four times and each experimental unit consisted of two kilograms of seeds, which were placed in individual 1 m³ gas-tight capacity chambers with phosphine. The concentrations used were 1.0; 2.0 and 3.0 g PH3.m-3, achieved by applying 3.0; 6.0 and 9.0 g of Fertox® commercial formulation. During seven days, the phosphine gas concentration within each chamber was monitored using the Silochek® gas meter. After this period, the chambers were opened, the seeds were removed and the quality analyses were performed. Throughout the experiment, PH3 concentrations in the chambers remained at the concentrations required for the elimination of all life stages of insect pests of stored seed. Even in the lowest dosage, the gas concentration remained above 400 ppm that is considered the minimum concentration for eliminating insect pests. No detrimental effects were detected on the physiological quality of the fumigated seeds.
Semi-automated assessment of the embryonic area of cucumber seeds and its relationship to germination and seedling length
Authors: Gomes-Junior Francisco Guilhien , Chiquito Adrielle Aparecida , Marcos-Filho Julio
Published: June 2013

Automated evaluations are highly useful for the seed industry to provide reliable information about different parameters of seed quality and fast results and to reduce errors based on human visual analysis. The objective of this research was to identify variations in the degree of embryo development in commercial cucumber seed lots and their relationship with physiological potential. Seeds of Supremo and Safira cultivars (four lots each), with germination above 90%, were X-rayed, evaluated according to embryonic area (using the Tomato Analyzer software) and germinated (4 days at 25 °C); germination percentage and seedling length data were obtained. The average seed embryo area was 79.7 and 80.9% (Supremo and Safira, respectively), ranging from 4.4 and 1.0 percentage points among the lots of each cultivar. The semiautomated analysis using the Tomato Analyzer software identifies small variations in the embryonic development of cucumber seed lots; seeds with an embryonic area less than 78.1% were more likely to produce less developed seedlings.
Evaluation of seed physiological quality of papaya elite hybrids, their reciprocal crosses and parents
Authors: Macedo Célia Maria Peixoto de , Pereira Messias Gonzaga , Cardoso Deisy Lúcia , Silva Roberto Ferreira da
Published: June 2013

This study aimed to evaluate the physiological quality of seeds of three hybrid combinations and their reciprocals, as well as the selfed parents, and to estimate genetic parameters associated with seed quality, and possible reciprocal effects. The experiment used F1 hybrid papaya seeds and their reciprocal crosses between JS12 and Sunrise Solo 72/12, Sekati and Waimanalo, and the seeds of the parents and two varieties, totaling 12 treatments in a completely randomized design with four replications. Weight of 1,000 seeds, germination, seedling fresh weight and seedling dry weight, first count, speed of germination and seedling emergence were determined. There was no xenia effect for weight of 1,000 seeds and seedling fresh weight. The reciprocal effect was not expressed for germination and seedling emergence, while for the other traits, it was not expressed only for JS12 x Sekati. Differences among hybrids and their parents occurred as a result of the action of pollen in the crosses, and justified by early heterosis. The most sensitive vigor tests to discriminate differences in performance of hybrids and their reciprocals were speed of germination and seedling fresh weight. There were high magnitudes of the estimates for the genotypic determination coefficient for most of the evaluated variables, except for seedling fresh weight.
Action of defense activator and foliar fungicide on the control of Asiatic rust and on yield and quality of soybean seeds
Authors: Carvalho Bruno Oliveira , Oliveira João Almir , Carvalho Everson Reis , Andrade Vinícius de , Ferreira Thaís Francielle , Reis Leandro Vilela
Published: June 2013

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of fungicide application (PrioriXtra®, azoxystrobin + ciproconazole) and defense activator (Bion®, acibenzolar-S-methyl) on the control of Asiatic rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi), as well as the effect of the disease on the quality of soybean seeds. The experimental design was a randomized block in factorial 4 X 10 with three replications, with four soybean breeding lines, two disease-tolerant and two susceptible and ten managements of rust control, using the products Bion®, Priori Xtra® and their combination, applied once, twice and three times, and a control. It evaluated the rate of normalized difference vegetation, productivity, mass of 1000 seeds and seed quality by means of the germination, seedling emergence, accelerated aging and seed health tests. The use of the defense activator alone in the maximum of three applications is not effective in controlling rust. The fungicide used in conjunction or not with the defense activator is effective in controlling rust and improving seed quality, when used with three foliar applications. The defoliation caused by rust affects considerably the formation of seeds, as well as productivity and also the percentage of germination and seedling emergence, and is influenced by genotype.
Seed performance of different corn genotypes during storage
Authors: Timóteo Tathiana Silva , Marcos-Filho Julio
Published: June 2013

Corn seed producers have shown significant concern about variations in the seed storage potential of different hybrids, which may not perform as desired. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of storage conditions on the physiological potential of seeds of different corn genotypes. Three experimental corn hybrids, each represented by three seed lots produced by Syngenta Seeds, were evaluated. Seeds were stored for fifteen months under three environments: cold and dry chamber (10 ºC and 30% relative humidity), laboratory environment, and controlled sub-optimal environment (20 ºC and 70% relative humidity). Seed performance was evaluated every three months by germination, accelerated aging and cold tests. Activity of the catalase, alcohol dehydrogenase and α-amilase enzymatic systems was also determined using electrophoresis. The storability of corn seeds from different genotypes can be consistently evaluated by associating germination and vigor test results with isoenzymatic activity. Storage under controlled sub-optimal temperature and relative humidity is an efficient procedure to provoke differences in intensity and speed of deterioration in corn seeds of different genotypes.
Electrical conductivity of different common bean seeds genotypes
Authors: Silva Sibelle Santanna da , Vieira Roberval Daiton , Grzybowski Camila Ribeiro de Souza , Carvalho Tereza Cristina de , Panobianco Maristela
Published: June 2013

The electrical conductivity test is a fast and non-subjective method used to assess seed physiological potential. Thus, the objective of this study was adapting the methodology for conducting the electrical conductivity test in common bean seeds and investigate effects of genotype in results of the test, comparing cultivars of the two trade groups: Carioca and Black. The study was conducted in two phases: 1- tests with combinations of different temperatures (20, 25, 30, and 35 °C) and five different inhibition periods (4, 8, 16, 20 and 24 h); and 2- assessment of influence of genotype by comparing results obtained on the seeds of both groups. Tests of accelerated aging and seedling emergence in field were also performed. It was concluded that, for seeds of common beans, electrical conductivity test may be performed with samples of 50 seeds per replication, soaked into 75 mL deionized water, incubated at 25 °C, and performing reading of results after 20 or 24 h. It was also concluded that test efficiency is variable according to genotype, and that for the trade group Carioca, there is not genotype effect; although the same results have not occurred for results obtained for the trade group Black.
Physiological potential of eggplant seeds
Authors: Lopes Magnólia de Mendonça , Silva Clíssia Barboza da , Vieira Roberval Daiton
Published: June 2013

The use and efficiency of vigor tests depend on the plant species and the development and, or adjustment of methodology, to obtain efficient procedures for evaluating seed physiological potential. The objective of this study was to compare different methods for evaluating the physiological potential of eggplant seeds (Solanum melongena L). Six seed lots of the "Comprida Roxa" cultivar were submitted to the following tests: germination, first count germination, seedling emergence, controlled deterioration (18, 21 and 24% for 24 and 48 hours at 45 °C), accelerated ageing (AA) and saturated salt accelerated ageing (both at 41 and 45 °C for 24, 48 and 72 hours) and electrical conductivity (25 seeds, 50 and 75 mL of water for 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16 and 24 hours of imbibition at 25 °C). The first count test provided preliminary information on seed germination and the other tests, in general, gave similar results for seedling emergence. It was concluded that the physiological potential of eggplant seeds can be evaluated using AA for 48 h/41 °C and controlled deterioration at 24% moisture content/ 24 h/45 °C. The best conditions for the electrical conductivity test on eggplant seed are using 25 seeds in 50mL of water for four hours at 25 ºC.
Osmotic priming of rice seeds subjected to low temperatures
Authors: Tonel Fernanda Reolon , Marini Patrícia , Bandeira Juliana de Magalhães , Silva Ana Carolina Silveira da , Sampaio Norton Victor , Villela Francisco Amaral
Published: June 2013

Aiming at verifying effects of priming on germination and emergence of seeds subjected to low temperatures, rice seeds (cv. IRGA 418) were primed into a KNO3 solution during 24, 48, and 72 h, at 20 °C; and into distilled water, for 24 h (control). Germination (G), first count of germination (FCG), and germination speed index (GSI) were the parameters assessed under temperatures of 17 °C, 20 °C and 25 °C. Besides, field emergence (FE), and emergence speed index (ESI) were also assessed under field conditions. A completely randomized design was used with treatments arranged in 4 x 3 factorial (treatments x temperatures) in all experiments. None statistically significant difference was found for seed germination within the 24 h imbibition period, under any of temperatures assessed; although after 48 and 72 h, at 17 °C, this variable has decreased. When seeds were imbibed in KNO3, during 48 and 72 h, the FCG and GSI were decreased, as compared to 24 h imbibition period, and for control treatment, at 17 °C and 25 ºC. After 24 h imbibition, the FE has not differed statistically from control treatment; as occurred for periods of 24 and 48 h imbibition for the ESI parameter. Priming in KNO3 does not cause beneficial effect on seed germination or on seedling emergence of rice.
Punctual mutations in lipoxygenase sequence expressed in black soybean seed coat
Authors: Mertz Liliane Marcia , Henning Fernando Augusto , Barbieri Ana Paula Piccinin , Segalin Samantha Rigo , Krzyzanowski Francisco Carlos , Zimmer Paulo Dejalma
Published: June 2013

Lipoxygenase enzymes are relevant in several characteristics of soybean seeds, such as germination performance, storage capacity and tolerance to infection by microorganisms. In this sense, the study of allelic variations of the genes related to that enzyme may be promising for the development of molecular markers associated with phenotypic characteristics which are relevant to seed physiology. This study aimed to identify mutations in lipoxygenase sequence expressed in black soybean seed coat. After isolation of the sequence of interest by the cDNA-AFLP technique, such sequence was compared with sequences of nucleotides and proteins of the lipoxygenase present in yellow soybean seed coat. Analysis of multiple sequence alignment has shown an expressive number of changes in the sequence of nucleotides, which have resulted in the modification of 13 amino acids in the translated protein. The identification of such mutations widens the possibility for further studies involving the association of these allelic variations with phenotypic differences of interest to seeds physiology.
Deterioration of sunflower seeds during storage
Authors: Abreu Luciana Aparecida de Souza , Carvalho Maria Laene Moreira de , Pinto Crislaine Aparecida Gomes , Kataoka Verônica Yumi , Silva Tanismare Tatiana de Almeida
Published: June 2013

The speed on deterioration of oil-seeds depends on conditions of the storage environment and on particularities of the species, which include the seed chemical composition. Within this study, the changes on quality of sunflower seeds, stored in different packaging types and environmental conditions, were investigated. The packaging used were multiwall Kraft paper and plastic packaging (with and without vacuum), under cold chamber and conventional storage conditions. Seed quality was evaluated by tests of: germination and accelerated aging; besides alterations on oil content, fatty acids profile, and isoenzymatic systems. The storage under cold chamber conditions was more efficient in maintaining physiological quality of sunflower seeds; and under such environment, the Kraft paper packaging was the most adequate. Under conventional storage facility, however, the plastic packaging, sealed with vacuum, has provided better maintenance of physiological quality. Changes in the sunflower seed quality were detected by the enzymatic systems: alcohol dehydrogenase and superoxide dismutase. The oil content in seeds decreases over time, regardless of storage condition. The linoleic and oleic acids constituted 80% of the total amount of fatty acids scanned. There have been no significant differences on the fatty acid profiles of the sunflower oil under the different storage conditions studied.
Physiological quality of castor bean seeds originating from different racemes in the plant
Authors: David Andréia Márcia Santos de Souza , Araújo Eduardo Fontes , Araújo Roberto Fontes , Resende Maria Aparecida Vilela de , Dias Denise Cunha Fernandes dos Santos , Nobre Danúbia Aparecida Costa
Published: June 2013

The harvesting is one of the most critical phases in castor bean seed production system, once physiological quality of the seeds produced in the different types of racemes in the plant can be affected. The aim of this study was assessing physiological quality of castor bean seeds in function of position of the racemes on plant. Castor bean seeds, cv. IAC-226, harvested separately at distinct periods from primary, secondary, and tertiary racemes, or of mixture of seeds originating from the different types of racemes were used. Soon after harvest, the following determinations were performed: moisture content; 1,000 seeds weight; germination; first count of germination; seedling emergence; emergence speed index; and length and dry matter of seedlings. A completely randomized experimental design was used with four repetitions. Data were subjected to ANOVA and means were compared by Tukey test, at 5% probability. The seeds from primary racemes present higher weight and vigor as compared to seeds produced on other types of racemes. Seeds originating from secondary and tertiary racemes present post-harvest dormancy, being this event more evident on seeds originating from tertiary racemes.
Community‐specific impacts of exotic earthworm invasions on soil carbon dynamics in a sandy temperate forest
Authors: Crumsey Jasmine M. , Le Moine James M. , Capowiez Yvan , Goodsitt Mitchell M. , Larson Sandra C , Kling George W. , Nadelhoffer Knute J.
Published: June 2013

Exotic earthworm introductions can alter above‐ and belowground properties of temperate forests, but the net impacts on forest soil carbon (C) dynamics are poorly understood. We used a mesocosm experiment to examine the impacts of earthworm species belonging to three different ecological groups (Lumbricus terrestris [anecic], Aporrectodea trapezoides [endogeic], and Eisenia fetida [epigeic]) on C distributions and storage in reconstructed soil profiles from a sandy temperate forest soil by measuring CO2 and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) losses, litter C incorporation into soil, and soil C storage with monospecific and species combinations as treatments. Soil CO2 loss was 30% greater from the Endogeic × Epigeic treatment than from controls (no earthworms) over the first 45 days; CO2 losses from monospecific treatments did not differ from controls. DOC losses were three orders of magnitude lower than CO2 losses, and were similar across earthworm community treatments. Communities with the anecic species accelerated litter C mass loss by 31–39% with differential mass loss of litter types (Acer rubrum > Populus grandidentata > Fagus grandifolia > Quercus rubra ≥ Pinus strobus) indicative of leaf litter preference. Burrow system volume, continuity, and size distribution differed across earthworm treatments but did not affect cumulative CO2 or DOC losses. However, burrow system structure controlled vertical C redistribution by mediating the contributions of leaf litter to A‐horizon C and N pools, as indicated by strong correlations between (1) subsurface vertical burrows made by anecic species, and accelerated leaf litter mass losses (with the exception of P. strobus); and (2) dense burrow networks in the A‐horizon and the C and N properties of these pools. Final soil C storage was slightly lower in earthworm treatments, indicating that increased leaf litter C inputs into soil were more than offset by losses as CO2 and DOC across earthworm community treatments.
Does Women’s Contribution to Co-Constructed Handheld Maternity Records Support Patient-Centered Care?
Authors: Humphrey Tracy , Tucker Janet S. , de Labrusse Claire
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND: The Scottish Women’s Handheld Maternity Record (SWHMR) contains an innovative element of co-construction by inviting women to write in their notes. It aims to support communication and patient-centered care (PCC). The study aims were (a) to describe women’s contribution to the SWHMR, (b) compare the characteristics of women who do/do not contribute, and (c) assess the influence of women’s contributions on their care.

METHODS: An exploratory study using mixed methods approach extracted data from a series of 300 casenotes. Women’s contributions were analyzed by sociodemographic and clinical characteristics using descriptive statistics. Content analysis was used to identify themes within women’s written text.

RESULTS: Women were more likely to contribute to sections about personal details, health-life style than birth preferences/management. Primiparous, women residing in urban areas or receiving midwife-led care were more likely to contribute. Only half of the women who expressed their preferences for birth were judged to have been met. Most of women’s contributions mapped to PCC’s domains and other emerging themes were identified.

CONCLUSIONS: Women’s contribution to the SWHMR varied widely and substantial groups of women may be disadvantaged. Co-constructed handheld records need further evaluation to ensure that they do support communication and PCC.
Continuous Support During Childbirth by Maternity Care Assistants: An Exploration of Opinions in the Netherlands
Authors: Baas Carien , Wiegers Therese , de Cock Paul , Koelewijn Joke , Hutton Eileen
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND:The Netherlands maintain a high rate of home births relative to other well-resourced countries. Maternity care assistants (MCAs) play an important role, as part of the maternity care team, assisting the midwife during birth and providing postpartum care to women and babies in their homes. A Cochrane review recently described the advantages of continuous support during childbirth. We were interested in the opinions of MCAs about them having an expanded role to include continuous emotional support during childbirth as well as medical tasks such as checking the condition of the fetus and maternal labor progress through internal examination.

METHODS:To explore the opinions of MCAs, four semistructured group discussions took place and 190 questionnaires were sent out to MCAs nationally.

RESULTS:In both the group discussions and questionnaires, MCAs displayed positive attitudes toward providing continuous support during childbirth. In general, MCAs were not keen on adding medical tasks. The importance of a clear distribution of responsibilities between midwives and MCAs was reported. Most (60.0%) thought midwives would appreciate MCAs providing continuous support. Furthermore, 40.5% disagreed with dividing the profession into childbirth care and postpartum care teams. Two-thirds mentioned the need for extra training in childbirth assistance.

CONCLUSION:In general, MCAs were positive about providing continuous support during childbirth. Most MCAs think that it is unwise to give MCAs additional medical responsibilities. The opinions differ concerning issues of practical organization. MCAs generally thought extra schooling was important to be and feel competent to assist childbirth.
Calibration of a 2-D morphodynamic model using water–sediment flux maps derived from an ADCP recording
Authors: Guerrero Massimo , Di Federico Vittorio , Lamberti Alberto
Published: June 2013

This study compared numerical simulations of the hydro-morphodynamics of a stretch of the Po River (Italy) to detailed measurements of the river's morphology and water–sediment fluxes. A survey of the 8-km-long, 250-m-wide river section, previously described in former publications, was performed using two vessels. The first was equipped with a multibeam echo sounder for bathymetry and the investigation of bed forms, while the second was equipped with two acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCPs) to map bed roughness, flow velocity, and suspended sediment fields. This paper focuses on the calibration of the shallow water numerical model MIKE21C implemented by the Danish Hydraulic Institute. Sensitivity analyses were performed to analyze the effects of bed roughness and sediment transport direction on the simulated flow field and morphology. The results fixed the predominant flow and morphology parameters in the model, and show how the velocity and sediment field maps that were derived from the ADCP recording could be used for calibration and validation of the existing software.
Development of a self-rechargeable digital water flow meter
Authors: Wang Songhao , Garcia Ronald
Published: June 2013

The objective of this paper is to present the feasibility of a self-rechargeable digital water flow meter (SRDFM) system for water pipes using the latest data processing and wireless communication technologies while causing negligible water pressure drop (head loss). The system uses a Pelton turbine generator to power the electronic circuit, which processes and transmits the signals generated by several flow meters. ZigBee technology was used to process and send wireless signals. Signals from two water meters were acquired, processed, and transmitted with only one control/transmission unit during this study. The new system was assessed experimentally, reaching a maximum of 80 m of wireless transmittance distance at a minimum flow rate of 5 L/min for a 16-mm diameter pipe (self-charged).
A deterministic approach for optimization of booster disinfection placement and operation for a water distribution system in Beijing
Authors: Meng Fanlin , Liu Shuming , Ostfeld Avi , Chen Chao , Burchard-Levine Alejandra
Published: June 2013

Previous studies on booster disinfection optimization were commonly based on ‘blank networks’, neglecting the impact of existing disinfection facilities, which could result in misleading solutions. To overcome this limitation, a method, which incorporates the existing disinfection facilities, is developed and demonstrated in this study. A particle backtracking algorithm, which traces the upstream pathways of the disinfection insufficiency nodes, is employed to narrow down the potential positions for booster stations. Deterministic optimization results are then efficiently yielded by the introduction of a ‘coverage matrix’. The proposed method is applied to a real life water distribution system in Beijing, China. Results show the methodology effectiveness in optimizing booster disinfection placement and operation for real life water distribution systems. For the explored case study, results suggest that adding a booster disinfection station at 0.1% of the nodes of the system can satisfy chlorine residual at about 97.5% of all nodes.
Motivational Changes in an English Foreign Language Online Reading Context
Authors: Huang Hsin-Chou
Published: June 2013

This study investigated how reading online affects English foreign language (EFL) learners' motivation to read all-English texts. Two classes of intermediate Taiwanese EFL learners in a college reading course participated. Each student read one online story every week during the semester-long
experiment. A pre- and postreading motivation questionnaire, adapted from Mori's study, was administered to ascertain students' motivational changes. Results from a t test showed that reading using an e-book had a positive effect on students' motivations for reading in terms of several
dimensions: reading efficacy, challenge, curiosity, involvement, reading for grades, and integrative orientation. Analysis of variance results showed that female students in the low-proficiency group were significantly more positive about the motivational effects of online reading than were
low-proficiency male students.
Impaired Tethering and Fusion of GLUT4 Vesicles in Insulin-Resistant Human Adipose Cells
Authors: Lizunov Vladimir A. , Lee Jo-Ping , Skarulis Monica C. , Zimmerberg Joshua , Cushman Samuel W. , Stenkula Karin G.
Published: June 2013

Systemic glucose homeostasis is profoundly influenced by adipose cell function. Here we investigated GLUT4 dynamics in living adipose cells from human subjects with varying BMI and insulin sensitivity index (Si) values. Cells were transfected with hemagglutinin (HA)-GLUT4-green fluorescent protein (GFP)/mCherry (red fluorescence), and were imaged live using total internal reflection fluorescence and confocal microscopy. HA-GLUT4-GFP redistribution to the plasma membrane (PM) was quantified by surface-exposed HA epitope. In the basal state, GLUT4 storage vesicle (GSV) trafficking to and fusion with the PM were invariant with donor subject Si, as was total cell-surface GLUT4. In cells from insulin-sensitive subjects, insulin augmented GSV tethering and fusion approximately threefold, resulting in a corresponding increase in total PM GLUT4. However, with decreasing Si, these effects diminished progressively. All insulin-induced effects on GLUT4 redistribution and trafficking correlated strongly with Si and only weakly with BMI. Thus, while basal GLUT4 dynamics and total cell-surface GLUT4 are intact in human adipose cells, independent of donor Si, cells from insulin-resistant donors show markedly impaired GSV tethering and fusion responses to insulin, even after overnight culture. This altered insulin responsiveness is consistent with the hypothesis that adipose cellular dysfunction is a primary contributor to systemic metabolic dysfunction.
Introduction
Authors: Craith Máiréad Nic , Fenske Michaela
Published: June 2013

How do people use history to shape their lives, places and ‘worlds’? Which kind of history do they use, and in what ways? What are the functions of history in this context? How do people interact with places and spaces by constructing history, and what are the implications of these constructions for a sense of place? These are some of the questions explored in this special issue of the Anthropological Journal of European Cultures on history and place-making.
The Life of the Death of 'The Fighting Fairy Woman of Bodmin'
Authors: Cornish Helen
Published: June 2013

The skeleton of Joan Wytte, or the Fighting Fairy Woman of Bodmin, was displayed in the Museum of Witchcraft in Cornwall in the UK for several decades until her eventual burial in nearby woodland in the autumn of 1999. Her story has been deployed as a critical historical source and a demonstrable link between Cornwall and magical histories. It is well established that the past is recorded and represented through narratives, artefacts and events in multiple and diverse ways, and museums are often idealised sites for historical knowledge. Historicity is contingent on current needs and agendas, and often contested. Through retelling over time certain elements are highlighted or downplayed. Since the burial, the life and death of Joan Wytte has become vividly invested with new meanings as her story becomes incorporated into the landscapes of folklore, Cornish histories and magical practices.
The Zoo as a Realm of Memory
Authors: Holtorf Cornelius
Published: June 2013

The zoo is in many respects a place of remembrance. In zoos, one is reminded of one's own childhood, outstanding human and animal figures, various human cultures past and present, the genetic heritage of natural evolution and the origins of humans. Zoo animals, therefore, cannot be readily associated with wildlife in its natural setting alone. Indeed, zoos are not only about animals, as they purport to be; they are also metaphorical places and about memory. Memories are always socially conditioned and never innocent; the same holds for zoos. I ask whether zoos without colonialist and imperialist undertones are even conceivable today and if human communities could be involved in zoo management to a larger extent.
Regional Identity and Regionalisation in Eastern Europe
Authors: Parkin Robert A.
Published: June 2013

While it can claim some historical depth, essentially Lubuskie is a new province in western Poland that emerged from the local government reforms of 1999. It is thus located in a part of the country taken over by Poland from Germany in 1945, which as a consequence experienced a complete replacement of populations (Polish for German) at that time. This makes the province a useful case in which to study the emergence of a new identity over time. At present its identity is not as strong as in the case of its neighbours like Silesia and Wielkopolska, though it is being cultivated where possible by some local bureaucrats and politicians. It is argued that it is nonetheless justified to study such cases in order to determine and account for differences in the strength of regional identities in the same nationstate. The wider framework is regional identities within Europe as part of the process of European integration and its articulation with nation-states in the EU.
Migrant Languages in the Public Space
Authors: Bermingham Nicola
Published: June 2013

Philip McDermott (2012), Migrant Languages in the Public Space: A Case Study from Northern Ireland (Münster: LIT), 320 pp., Pb: €29.90, ISBN: 978-3643800992.
Alterations of 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine in Human Cancers
Authors: Mariani Christopher , Madzo Jozef , Moen Erika , Yesilkanal Ali , Godley Lucy
Published: June 2013

Prior to 2009, 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) was thought to be the only biologically significant cytosine modification in mammalian DNA. With the discovery of the TET enzymes, which convert 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC), however, intense interest has emerged in determining the biological function of 5-hmC. Here, we review the techniques used to study 5-hmC and evidence that alterations to 5-hmC physiology play a functional role in the molecular pathogenesis of human cancers.
Improved Minimum Entropy Filtering for Continuous Nonlinear Non-Gaussian Systems Using a Generalized Density Evolution Equation
Authors: Ren Mifeng , Zhang Jianhua , Fang Fang , Hou Guolian , Xu Jinliang
Published: June 2013

This paper investigates the filtering problem for multivariate continuous nonlinear non-Gaussian systems based on an improved minimum error entropy (MEE) criterion. The system is described by a set of nonlinear continuous equations with non-Gaussian system noises and measurement noises. The recently developed generalized density evolution equation is utilized to formulate the joint probability density function (PDF) of the estimation errors. Combining the entropy of the estimation error with the mean squared error, a novel performance index is constructed to ensure the estimation error not only has small uncertainty but also approaches to zero. According to the conjugate gradient method, the optimal filter gain matrix is then obtained by minimizing the improved minimum error entropy criterion. In addition, the condition is proposed to guarantee that the estimation error dynamics is exponentially bounded in the mean square sense. Finally, the comparative simulation results are presented to show that the proposed MEE filter is superior to nonlinear unscented Kalman filter (UKF).
Protective Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide in Hypoxic Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells: A Possible Mitochondria-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Shen Yaqi , Guo Wei , Wang Zhijun , Zhang Yuchen , Zhong Liangjie , Zhu Yizhun
Published: June 2013

The aim of the study was to investigate the protective effects of sodium hydrosulﬁde (NaHS), a H2S donor, against hypoxia-induced injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and also to look into the possible mechanisms by which H2S exerts this protective effect. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and scratch wound healing assay were chosen to measure the cell viability and migration-promoting effects. The fluorescent probe, DCFH-DA and 5,5',6,6'-Tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethyl-imidacarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) were applied to detect the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Furthermore, western blots were used to measure the expressions of the apoptosis-related proteins. Under hypoxic conditions, 300 μM and 600 μM of H2S could protect HUVECs against hypoxia-induced injury, as determined by MTT assay. Following the treatment of 60 µM NaHS for 18 h, scratch wound healing assays indicated that the scratch became much narrower than control group. After treatment with 60 µM, 120 µM, and 600 µM NaHS, and hypoxia for 30 min, flow cytometry demonstrated that the ROS concentrations decreased to 95.08% ± 5.52%, 73.14% ± 3.36%, and 73.51% ± 3.05%, respectively, compared with the control group. In addition, the JC-1 assay showed NaHS had a protective effect on mitochondria damage. Additionally, NaHS increased Bcl-2 expression and decreased the expression of Bax, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 in a dose-dependent way. Our results suggest that H2S can protect endothelial cells and promote migration under hypoxic condition in HUVECs. These effects are partially associated with the preservation of mitochondrial function mediated by regulating the mitochondrial-dependent apoptotic pathway.
Comparative Analysis of CNV Calling Algorithms: Literature Survey and a Case Study Using Bovine High-Density SNP Data
Authors: Xu Lingyang , Hou Yali , Bickhart Derek , Song Jiuzhou , Liu George
Published: June 2013

Copy number variations (CNVs) are gains and losses of genomic sequence between two individuals of a species when compared to a reference genome. The data from single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarrays are now routinely used for genotyping, but they also can be utilized for copy number detection. Substantial progress has been made in array design and CNV calling algorithms and at least 10 comparison studies in humans have been published to assess them. In this review, we first survey the literature on existing microarray platforms and CNV calling algorithms. We then examine a number of CNV calling tools to evaluate their impacts using bovine high-density SNP data. Large incongruities in the results from different CNV calling tools highlight the need for standardizing array data collection, quality assessment and experimental validation. Only after careful experimental design and rigorous data filtering can the impacts of CNVs on both normal phenotypic variability and disease susceptibility be fully revealed.