bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estabilidade da resistência de 'Ohio 8245' e 'Heinz 9553' à mancha bacteriana do tomateiro
Authors: Pontes Nadson de C , Moita Antonio W , Quezado-Duval Alice Maria
Published: April 2012

A mancha bacteriana é uma das principais doenças que incidem sobre a cultura do tomate, tanto para consumo in natura quanto para processamento industrial. A doença provoca desfolha que reduz a produtividade, além de expor os frutos ao sol. Neste trabalho foi avaliado o nível de resistência das cultivares Ohio 8245 e Heinz 9553, frente às quatro espécies de Xanthomonas que causam a doença, para verificar a possibilidade de indicá-los como padrões e/ou fontes de resistência. O ensaio foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, em delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso com parcelas subdivididas e três repetições. As parcelas principais corresponderam aos isolados e as subparcelas às cultivares. Foram inoculados três isolados de cada espécie na fase de mudas. Avaliou-se o período de incubação e a severidade da doença em termos de percentual de área foliar lesionada (AFL%) e da área abaixo da curva de progresso da doença (AACPD). Foi detectada interação entre os fatores isolados e cultivares. Não foram detectadas diferenças entre as cultivares quanto ao período de incubação, com exceção para o isolado CNPH 142-T de X. vesicatoria, para o qual 'Ohio 8245' e 'Heinz 9553' tiveram menor período. Apenas para 'Heinz 9553', houve diferença entre os isolados quanto ao período de incubação, com os menores valores sendo observados para isolados de X. vesicatoria e X. perforans. Para a maioria dos isolados, observou-se menor AFL% nas cultivares Ohio 8245 e Heinz 9553. Já para a variável AACPD, 'Ohio 8245' destacou-se com menor valor, seguido de 'Heinz 9553'. Os resultados sugerem a existência de resistência quantitativa de amplo espectro em ambas as cultivares, tornando-as úteis para programas de melhoramento genético visando resistência à mancha bacteriana.
Purchase policies to fresh fruit and vegetables in supermarkets in Campo Grande, Brazil
Authors: Lima-Filho Dario de O , Oliveira Leidy Diana de S de , Watanabe Eluiza AM , Maemura Marcia Mitiê D
Published: April 2012

This study aims to analyze purchase policies to fruits and vegetables in supermarkets in Campo Grande, Brazilian Midwest. Thirteen interviews were conducted with representatives from supermarkets, small, medium and large, responsible for purchasing fresh vegetables. By analyzing the responses obtained through interviews, we can observe that producers make almost the entire supply of fruits and vegetables in large supermarkets from other states, and the small and medium establishments usually buy more with the local producer. For retailers, the fruits and vegetables represent an important factor to create internal circulation of customers in stores and a factor of attraction of clients too, in addition, this products offer high profitability. For the supermarket, the fruits and vegetables locally produced are fresher and have lower comparative cost. However, supply regularity, the volume and variety offered by local producers are considered unsatisfactory.
Desempenho e divergência genética de cenoura 'Brasília' em função da procedência das sementes
Authors: Grangeiro Leilson C , Azevêdo Pascalle E de , Nunes Glauber Henrique de S , Dantas Mara Suyane M , Cruz Claúdia A
Published: April 2012

Os experimentos foram conduzidos na horta experimental da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, Mossoró (RN), de agosto a novembro de 2007 e 2008, com o objetivo de avaliar o desempenho produtivo e a divergência genética de cenoura 'Brasília' em função da procedência das sementes. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos casualizados completos, contendo oito tratamentos e quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos pelas procedências das sementes de cenoura 'Brasília' das empresas Sakata, Embrapa Hortaliças, Tecnoseed, Hortec, Feltrin, Agristar/TopSeed, Seminis e Isla. Foram avaliados a massas secas da parte aérea e de raiz, produtividade total, comercial e não comercial de raízes, coloração das raízes (ângulo de cor hº, cromaticidade e luminosidade), sólidos solúveis e divergência genética. A cenoura 'Brasília' das empresas avaliadas apresentou desempenho produtivo e qualitativo dentro dos padrões da cultivar, para as condições de condução dos experimentos. No entanto, foram divergentes, em especial nas características de produção e coloração.
Rendimento, qualidade e absorção de nutrientes pelos frutos de abóbora em função de doses de biofertilizante
Authors: Santos Malei Rosa dos , Sediyama Maria Aparecida N , Moreira Marialva A , Megguer Clarice Aparecida , Vidigal Sanzio M
Published: April 2012

O conhecimento do estado nutricional da planta e a exportação de nutrientes pela cultura auxiliam na tomada de decisão nos programas de adubação, podendo melhorar a qualidade e a produtividade de frutos de abóbora. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o estado nutricional das plantas, a produtividade, a qualidade e a extração de nutrientes pelos frutos de duas cultivares de abóbora híbrida tipo Tetsukabuto adubada com biofertilizante suíno. O experimento foi realizado no período de março a agosto de 2008. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, no esquema fatorial 2 x 5, compreendendo dois híbridos (Kobayashi e Jabras) e cinco doses de biofertilizante: 0, 5, 10, 20 e 40 m³ ha-1, com quatro repetições. A maior produtividade de frutos foi alcançada na dose de 35,34 m³ ha-1 de biofertilizante de suíno. A massa fresca e a cavidade interna dos frutos aumentaram com o aumento da dose do biofertilizante. O teor de sólidos solúveis totais na polpa dos frutos foi maior na testemunha, sem biofertilizante. A exceção do P e S, os teores foliares de nutrientes apresentaram-se dentro da faixa adequada para a cultura. A quantidade máxima de macronutrientes exportada pela massa seca de frutos de abóbora deu-se na ordem decrescente: K>N>P>Mg>Ca>S. O biofertilizante suíno pode ser utilizado como fonte de nutrientes no cultivo de abóbora híbrida, porém é recomendada a combinação com fontes de P para complementar a baixa disponibilidade deste nutriente.
Species composition and density estimates of the anurofauna of a site within the northernmost large Atlantic Forest remnant (Parque Estadual do Desengano) in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Siqueira Carla da Costa , Vrcibradic Davor , Almeida-Gomes Mauricio , Menezes Vanderlaine Amaral , Borges-Junior Vitor Nelson Teixeira , Hatano Fábio Haruki , Pontes Jorge Antônio Lourenço , Goyannes-Araújo Pablo , Guedes Diego Medeiros , van Sluys Monique , Rocha Carlos Frederico Duarte
Published: April 2012

We present data on species composition, relative abundance and estimated densities for leaf-litter anuran amphibians from an Atlantic Forest area within the Parque Estadual do Desengano, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, based on results of a short-term survey carried out during the winter at altitudes of 1000-1500 m. Three sampling methods were used: plot sampling, visual encounter surveys (VES; performed during the day, at the twilight, and at night), and pitfall traps. We recorded 13 species, with the direct-developer Ischnocnema parva (Girard, 1853) being the most abundant. Most frogs (ca. 90% of all individuals) sampled by VES were captured during the crepuscular and nocturnal periods. The estimated density of the local leaf-litter frog assemblage based on plot sampling was 13.2 ind.100 m-2, which is one of the highest values currently reported for Atlantic Rainforest areas. This is the first study analyzing the anuran fauna of the Parque Estadual do Desengano and adds to the knowledge of the fauna of the northern region of the state of Rio de Janeiro, which is still poorly studied.
Pimplinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) em um fragmento de Cerrado na Reserva Biológica Unilavras/Boqueirão, Ingaí, Minas Gerais, Brasil
Authors: Tanque Ricardo Lima , Frieiro-Costa Fernando Antônio
Published: April 2012

Neste trabalho foi analisada a composição da taxocenose de Pimplinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) da Reserva Biológica Unilavras/Boqueirão, Ingaí, Minas Gerais. As coletas foram realizadas utilizando duas armadilhas do tipo Malaise (modelo Townes) instaladas em área de floresta de galeria e de Cerrado sensu stricto. As capturas foram realizadas entre abril de 2005 a fevereiro de 2006, totalizando 16 coletas em cada ambiente. Foram coletados 100 exemplares de Pimplinae, sendo representados por 26 espécies, distribuídas em 12 gêneros. Pimpla e Neotheronia foram os gêneros mais abundantes com 65 espécimes coletados. Na floresta de galeria foram coletados 71 indivíduos e no Cerrado, 29. Este inventário amplia os registros de distribuição de Eruga draperi Gauld, 1991; Polysphincta thoracica (Cresson, 1874); Zaglyptus simonis (Marshall, 1892) e Neotheronia hespenheidei Gauld, 1991, para a região do Cerrado brasileiro.
Flora vascular do Parque Estadual Carlos Botelho, São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Lima Renato Augusto Ferreira de , Dittrich Vinícius Antonio de Oliveira , Souza Vinícius Castro de , Salino Alexandre , Breier Tiago Böer , Aguiar Osny Tadeu de
Published: April 2012

Localizado na Serra de Paranapiacaba, sul do Estado de São Paulo, o Parque Estadual Carlos Botelho (PECB) abriga mais de 37.000 ha de Floresta Atlântica em um dos remanescentes mais importantes e extensos deste Bioma no Brasil. No Parque, predomina a Floresta Ombrófila Densa Montana e Submontana. Com o objetivo de organizar as informações florísticas disponíveis e direcionar futuros levantamentos, este estudo apresenta a lista de espécies vasculares nativas das florestas do PECB. Além de coletas pessoais dos autores, foram compilados mais de 3.900 registros citados desde 1967. Provindos de diferentes fontes de informação, estes registros foram checados para verificar a presença de sinonímias botânicas e novas combinações. Foi listado um total de 1.143 espécies vasculares pertencentes a 140 famílias e 528 gêneros (outras 63 espécies não foram incluídas por serem exóticas ou de ocorrência/identificação duvidosa). Houve grande riqueza de Myrtaceae, Orchidaceae, Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Melastomataceae, Lauraceae, Rubiaceae e Bromeliaceae. Apesar da alta riqueza de espécies, a riqueza de ervas, epífitos e lianas está certamente subestimada no Parque, de modo que futuros levantamentos certamente incluirão várias espécies na lista apresentada aqui. Adicionalmente, foram encontradas mais de 60 espécies com algum grau de ameaça de extinção, principalmente entre as famílias Myrtaceae, Lauraceae e Gesneriaceae. Assim, os resultados encontrados colocam o PECB entre as unidades de conservação com maior riqueza de espécies no Estado de São Paulo, com grande importância nacional para a conservação de espécies de plantas.
Avifauna associada a um trecho urbano do rio Sorocaba, Sudeste do Brasil
Authors: Cruz Bruna Botti , Piratelli Augusto João
Published: April 2012

Este estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar a avifauna associada ao rio Sorocaba, um típico rio urbano, do sudeste do Brasil. Ele atravessa a cidade com o mesmo nome, ao longo do qual, várias atividades humanas são realizadas como recreação e pesca. Lá, várias espécies de aves devem encontrar locais para descanso, alimentação e nidificação. As aves foram observadas semanalmente, de setembro de 2008 a setembro de 2009 por meio de 16 pontos fixos (A1 a A16). O levantamento quantitativo registrou 65 espécies (32 passeriformes e 33 não - passeriformes), sendo que a família mais bem representada foi Tyrannidae (n = 9). As espécies mais freqüentes foram Egretta thula, Amazonetta brasiliensis, Vanellus chilensis, Pitangus sulphuratus, Ardea alba e Pygochelidon cyanoleuca (FO = 100%). Os maiores valores do índice pontual de abundância foram 46,5 (1626 contatos) para Pgochelidon cyanoleuca, 14,4 (500 contatos) para Phalacrocorax brasilianus e 12,9 (452 contatos) para Amazonetta brasiliensis. As categorias tróficas mais representativas foram dos insetívoros (n = 26), piscívoros (n = 11) e onívoros (n = 10). A análise de agrupamento revelou a existência de três pares de pontos muito semelhantes (100 e 95% semelhança). Diferenças conspícuas na composição da fauna de aves ao longo da área estudada foram detectadas, provavelmente devido às suas características ambientais e do grau de perturbação humana. Além disso, diferenças significativas nos avistamentos foram observadas entre as estações de seca e chuva, provavelmente em função das atividades reprodutivas e migratórias e do aumento na disponibilidade de recursos alimentares, que supostamente ocorrem no período chuvoso. Neste sentido, práticas conservacionistas devem permitir a manutenção a heterogeneidade de habitats, recuperação da vegetação ripária, praias e banhados, assim como o planejamento efetivo das atividades humanas em seu entorno.
Estudo taxonômico da ictiofauna de água doce da bacia do Recôncavo Sul, Bahia, Brasil
Authors: Burger Rafael , Zanata Angela Maria , Camelier Priscila
Published: April 2012

A bacia do Recôncavo Sul faz parte das drenagens costeiras do Leste do Brasil, está quase inteiramente incluída na região do Baixo Sul do Estado da Bahia, é limitada ao norte e noroeste pela bacia do rio Paraguaçu e ao sul e sudoeste pelo rio de Contas. No presente estudo, um total de 41 espécies de peixes estritamente de água doce foi registrado, pertencentes a 28 gêneros, 12 famílias e seis ordens (18 Characiformes, 13 Siluriformes, cinco Perciformes, duas Cyprinodontiformes, duas Gymnotiformes e uma Synbranchiformes). Foram encontradas dez espécies possivelmente ainda não descritas, quatro espécies endêmicas e quatro introduzidas na área de estudo. Uma espécie presente na área está ameaçada de extinção. Uma chave de identificação para as espécies conhecidas para o Recôncavo Sul é apresentada, assim como comentários sobre a taxonomia e distribuição de algumas espécies. Devido à diversidade comparativamente alta e condições ambientais relativamente preservadas, a bacia do rio das Almas é indicada como uma área chave para conservação.
Guia de identificação das espécies de Scarabaeinae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Silva Pedro Giovâni da , Vaz-de-Mello Fernando Zagury , Mare Rocco Alfredo Di
Published: April 2012

Apresenta-se um guia de identificação das espécies de Scarabaeinae ocorrentes em Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, arroladas da literatura e capturadas entre maio de 2009 a abril de 2010 em fragmentos florestais. São fornecidas chave dicotômica, caracterização, ilustrações (das espécies coletadas) e informações ecológicas para 35 espécies.
Nuclear-follower foraging associations among Characiformes fishes and Potamotrygonidae rays in clean waters environments of Teles Pires and Xingu rivers basins, Midwest Brazil
Authors: Garrone Neto Domingos , Carvalho Lucélia Nobre
Published: April 2012

During under and overwater observations were recorded nuclear-follower foraging associations among three species of characiform fishes - Chalceus epakros, Hemiodus semitaeniatus and Hemiodus unimaculatus - and a freshwater stingray species - Potamotrygon orbignyi - in the Teles Pires and Xingu rivers basins, Midwest Brazil. The teleost fishes were observed closely following the stingrays during the behavior of stirring the substrate to uncover invertebrates, which cause discrete sediment clouds. Apparently this sediment perturbation attracts the fishes that approached the foraging stingrays to feed on small preys and other food types exposed this way. This is a typical example of a commensal relationship in which one participant is benefited while the other is unaffected, and represents the second published record of nuclear-follower feeding association between potamotrygonid rays and teleost fishes, demonstrating the potential of naturalistic studies in discovering new interactions involving species of freshwater fish.
Karyotype differentiation and cytotaxonomic considerations in species of Serrasalmidae (Characiformes) from the Amazon basin
Authors: Nakayama Celeste Mutuko , Feldberg Eliana , Bertollo Luiz Antonio Carlos
Published: April 2012

Six species of Serrasalmidae from the central Amazon, representatives of the genera Serrasalmus (S. elongatus, S. maculatus, S. cf. rhombeus, and S. rhombeus), Pygocentrus (P. nattereri), and Colossoma (C. macropomum), were analyzed regarding the distribution of the Ag-NORs, C-positive heterochromatin and 18S and 5S rRNA genes on the chromosomes. All specimens had 2n = 60 chromosomes, except S. cf. rhombeus, with 2n = 58, and C. macropomum with 2n = 54 chromosomes. The Ag-NORs were multiple and located on the short arms of subtelo-acrocentric chromosomes in all Serrasalmus species and in P. nattereri, but were found on metacentric chromosomes in C. macropomum. The 18S rDNA sites were usually coincident with Ag-NORs, although some species had a higher number and/or a distinct localization of these sites. C-positive heterochromatin was preferentially situated in centromeric regions, remarkably on metacentric pair number 7 in all Serrasalmus species and number 3 in P. nattereri, which beared a conspicuous proximal C-band on the long arms. The 5S rDNA sites were detected in a single chromosomal pair in all species. In Serrasalmus and P. nattereri, this pair was the number 7 and 3, respectively, thereby revealing its co-localization with the conspicuous heterochromatic band. However, in C. macropomum, only one homologue (probably belonging to pair number 12) exhibited 5S rDNA sites on the short arms, close to the centromere. The present data revealed reliable cytotaxonomic markers, enabling the evaluation of karyotype differentiation and interrelationships among Serrasalmidae, as well as the probable occurrence of a species complex in S. rhombeus.
Reproductive and feeding biology of Acestrorhynchus pantaneiro Menezes, 1992 (Osteichthyes: Acestrorhynchidae) in areas under the influence of dams in the upper Uruguay River, Brazil
Authors: Meurer Samira , Zaniboni-Filho Evoy
Published: April 2012

The reproductive and feeding biology of Acestrorhynchus pantaneiro were studied in the upper Uruguay River, southern Brazil. Fourteen sites were surveyed seasonally between 2000 and 2006. A total of 3,427 fish were caught, being 2,015 females and 1,412 males. The sex ratio was 1.66:1 (female:male) in lentic habitats (p<0.05), but showed equal proportion in lotic and transition habitats. Feeding activity was similar for both sexes and showed little variation along the year. The analysis of stomach contents of 2,401 stomach showed that "fish" was the most consumed resource in all different habitats, corresponding to 99% of the food in the gravimetric analyzes. The species showed a multiple spawning type with a long reproductive period, although the highest intensity of reproduction occurred between the beginning of spring and summer, marked by the highest GSI and advanced gonadal maturity stages. Relative fecundity (mean ± SD) was 139 ± 56 oocytes per mm of total length and 152 ± 66 oocytes per gram of total weight. The mean absolute fecundity was 33,470 ± 19,151 oocytes and the average of the mature oocytes diameter was 897.5 ± 365.4 µm. Acestrorhynchus pantaneiro is more abundant in lentic environments and presents biological characteristics that favor the establishment of the species in dammed rivers.
Feeding behavior of the Neotropical freshwater stingray Potamotrygon motoro (Elasmobranchii: Potamotrygonidae)
Authors: Shibuya Akemi , Zuanon Jansen , Tanaka Sho
Published: April 2012

The feeding mechanisms of elasmobranchs and their functioning have been receiving growing scientific attention, although less emphasis has yet to be directed towards batoid species. The present study investigated the use of orobranchial musculature during prey capture and processing behavior in Potamotrygon motoro. Ten orobranchial muscle groups were removed to determine their relative biomasses. The kinematics of the musculature was described based on videos of prey capture and manipulation under captive conditions recorded at 250 and 500 field/s. Analyses of the orobranchial musculature indicated that adductor muscles responsible for closing the mouth had high biomasses, which is consistent with their functions related to apprehend and manipulate the prey. The feeding behavior adopted by this ray species showed a sequence of manipulation to crush hard prey as crustaceans (dominant prey category for P. motoro) to facilitate final oral transport. The morphological and behavioral characteristics of P. motoro are essential to fully understanding the mechanisms used in prey capture and processing in environments in which these stingrays occur.
Antioxidant activity of bee products added to water in tebuconazole-exposed fish
Authors: Ferreira Daiane , Unfer Taís Cristina , Rocha Hélio Carlos , Kreutz Luiz Carlos , Koakoski Gessi , Barcellos Leonardo José Gil
Published: April 2012

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the potential of honey, propolis, and bee pollen for the reversal of lipid peroxidation induced by tebuconazole (TEB) in South American catfish (Rhamdia quelen), in which the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), the activity of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and the concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants, reduced glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid, and non-protein thiols were assessed. Honey (0.125 g L-1) and bee pollen (0.05 g L-1) added to the water reverse the production of TBARS induced by TEB, while propolis demonstrated a pro-oxidant effect, inducing an increase in TBARS production. The data presented herein suggest that the addition of water to honey and bee pollen potentially protects against the oxidative stress caused by agrichemicals.
Ensino de massoterapia: habilidades envolvidas na relação fisioterapeuta-paciente
Authors: Campos Beatriz Calil Padis , Campos Terezinha Calil Padis , Tanaka Clarice , Caromano Fátima Aparecida
Published: April 2012

Desenvolvido no âmbito da disciplina Recursos Terapêuticos Manuais, o objetivo deste trabalho foi elaborar, aplicar e avaliar a eficácia de um programa de treinamento de habilidades profissionalizantes em sessão de massoterapia, com foco na relação fisioterapeuta-paciente, sem descuidar do autocuidado do terapeuta. Para elaboração do programa, foram identificadas 21 habilidades envolvidas nessa relação, com base na literatura e na observação de 120 sessões de massoterapia. Dez peritos validaram a definição operacional das habilidades, que foram organizadas em um programa de treinamento aplicado a alunos. O desempenho destes nas habilidades treinadas (classificado como adequado, parcialmente adequado, inadequado ou não-realizado) foi avaliado em prova prática. Também foi analisado relato escrito dos alunos sobre o programa. Participaram do estudo 25 graduandos. A análise dos resultados mostrou que todos realizaram 12 das 21 habilidades treinadas adequadamente. Quatro habilidades foram realizadas de forma parcialmente adequada por cinco alunos. Não ocorreu situação de execução inadequada. Na análise dos relatos, 19 dos 25 alunos afirmaram ser o treinamento importante e necessário. O autocuidado físico foi destacado como importante para o desenvolvimento profissional e apropriado para o contexto de ensino por dez alunos. O programa mostrou-se pois eficiente em capacitar os alunos para um bom relacionamento terapeuta-paciente, sendo bem aceito pelos alunos.
Biorretroalimentação para treinamento do equilíbrio em hemiparéticos por acidente vascular encefálico: estudo preliminar
Authors: Soares Antonio Vinicius , Hochmüller Ana Cláudia Oliveira de Lima , Silva Patrícia da , Fronza Daniela , Woellner Simone Suzuki , Noveletto Fabrício
Published: April 2012

Como disfunções do equilíbrio são freqüentes nos pacientes hemiparéticos por acidente vascular encefálico (AVE), o treinamento do equilíbrio é meta fundamental em seu tratamento. O objetivo deste estudo preliminar foi verificar os efeitos da biorretroalimentação, por treinamento em plataforma instável computadorizada, em seis pacientes hemiparéticos por AVE (três homens e três mulheres, com idade média de 56,2 anos). Os pacientes foram avaliados, antes e após o tratamento, quanto a mobilidade funcional (pelo teste de levantar e caminhar cronometrado, TUGT na sigla em inglês), alcance funcional, qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (pelo Perfil de Saúde de Nottingham) e equilíbrio sobre prancha instável. O treinamento foi feito na mesma prancha, em 23 sessões de cerca de 30 minutos cada, durante oito semanas. Os resultados indicam melhora do equilíbrio, em média, de 119,1% com pés separados e de 79,6% com pés juntos (p<0,001); melhora média do alcance funcional de 15% (p<0,001); melhora da mobilidade de 25,6% (p<0,001); e discreta melhora nos escores da auto-avaliação de qualidade de vida. O programa de treinamento resultou pois em melhoras significativas na amostra estudada, sugerindo que a biorretroalimentação do equilíbrio pode ser uma ferramenta valiosa na reabilitação de pacientes hemiparéticos em decorrência de AVE.
Influence of heat treatment on Ti6Al4V for biomimetic biolayer
Authors: Mohammed Hadeer I. , Abdel-Fattah Wafa I. , El-Sayed El-Sayed M. , Talaat Mona Salah , Sallam Abdel Sattar M. , Faerber Jacques , Pourroy Genevieve , Roland Thierry , Carradò Adele
Published: April 2012

This study presents preliminary results on a coating method based on biomimetic techniques which are designed to form a calcium-phosphate layer very similar to the process corresponding to the formation of natural bone. The proposed deposition route has several advantages of controlled conditions, application to complex shapes, without adverse effect of heating besides being cost effective. Samples were alkali etched and subsequently heat treated. Afterwards, the biomimetic deposition process of a calcium-phosphate coating on the chemically pretreated substrates, were investigated using the SBF immersion route for 4 and 6 days subsequently and discussed. The formed layers were studied using FESEM, confocal microscopy and FT-IR before and after SBF soaking tests. Biochemical analyses of calcium and phosphorous contents in SBF—solutions after samples withdrawal—were performed for the biomimetic assessment of the formed layer along with pH measurements. The data suggests that this method can be successfully applied to obtain deposition of calcium-phosphate and calcium carbonate layers on titanium substrates.
Influence of sol composition on natural superhydrophilicity of sol gel–derived TiO2–SiO2 nanocomposite thin films
Authors: Holtzinger C. , Rapenne L. , Chaudouët P. , Berthomé G. , Joud J. C. , Langlet M.
Published: April 2012

TiO2–SiO2 nanocomposite thin films have been deposited via a sol-gel route. These films exhibit a natural and persistent superhydrophilicity, which allows considering new applications for easy to clean surfaces. Influence of the sol composition on the composite film morphology and thickness has been studied by atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and ellipsometry measurements. The wettability of nanocomposite films has been studied and discussed in relation to morphology and thickness features. It is concluded that, while such features can influence the wettability of nanocomposite films, intrinsic effects arising from their TiO2–SiO2 composition probably play a predominant role.
Clinical Consequences of Mutations in Sodium Phosphate Cotransporters
Authors: Lederer Eleanor , Miyamoto Ken-ichi
Published: April 2012

Three families of sodium phosphate cotransporters have been described. Their specific roles in human health and disease have not been defined. Review of the literature reveals that the type II sodium phosphate cotransporters play a significant role in transepithelial transport in a number of tissues including kidney, intestine, salivary gland, mammary gland, and lung. The type I transporters seem to play a major role in renal urate handling and mutations in these proteins have been implicated in susceptibility to gout. The ubiquitously expressed type III transporters play a lesser role in phosphate homeostasis but contribute to cellular phosphate uptake, mineralization, and inflammation. The recognition of species differences in the expression, regulation, and function of these transport proteins suggests an urgent need to find ways to study them in humans.
PTGS-2–PTGER2/4 Signaling Pathway Partially Protects From Diabetogenic Toxicity of Streptozotocin in Mice
Authors: Vennemann Antje , Gerstner Anemone , Kern Niklas , Ferreiros Bouzas Nerea , Narumiya Shuh , Maruyama Takayuki , Nüsing Rolf M.
Published: April 2012

Prostanoids are suggested to participate in diabetes pathology, but their roles are controversially discussed. The purpose of the current study was to examine the role of cyclooxygenase (prostaglandin synthase [PTGS]) enzymes and prostaglandin (PG) E2 signaling pathways in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetes. Blood glucose, insulin, and survival rate were studied in mice with targeted disruption of the genes for PTGS and PGE receptors (PTGERs). PGE2 was found as the main prostanoid formed by the pancreas. Contrarily to PTGS-1, deficiency of PTGS-2 activity significantly amplified STZ effect, causing dramatic loss of insulin production and rise in blood glucose and death rate. STZ metabolism was unaffected by PTGS deficiency. Diabetogenicity of STZ in PTGER1−/−, PTGER2−/−, PTGER3−/−, and PTGER4−/− mice was comparable to control mice. In striking contrast, combined knockout of PTGER2 and PTGER4 by blocking PTGER4 in PTGER2−/− mice strongly enhanced STZ pathology. Treatment of PTGS-2−/− and wild-type mice with PTGER2/PTGER4 agonists partially protected against STZ-induced diabetes and restored β-cell function. Our data uncover a previously unrecognized protective role of PTGS-2–derived PGE2 in STZ-induced diabetes mediated by the receptor types PTGER2 and PTGER4. These findings offer the possibility to intervene in early progression of type 1 diabetes by using PTGER-selective agonists.
Overexpression of Monocarboxylate Transporter-1 (Slc16a1) in Mouse Pancreatic β-Cells Leads to Relative Hyperinsulinism During Exercise
Authors: Pullen Timothy J. , Sylow Lykke , Sun Gao , Halestrap Andrew P. , Richter Erik A. , Rutter Guy A.
Published: April 2012

Exercise-induced hyperinsulinism (EIHI) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by inappropriate insulin secretion in response to vigorous physical exercise or pyruvate injection. Activating mutations in the monocarboxylate transporter-1 (MCT1, SLC16A1) promoter have been linked to EIHI. Expression of this pyruvate transporter is specifically repressed (disallowed) in pancreatic β-cells, despite nearly universal expression across other tissues. It has been impossible to determine, however, whether EIHI mutations cause MCT1 expression in patient β-cells. The hypothesis that MCT1 expression in β-cells is sufficient to cause EIHI by allowing entry of pyruvate and triggering insulin secretion thus remains unproven. Therefore, we generated a transgenic mouse capable of doxycycline-induced, β-cell–specific overexpression of MCT1 to test this model directly. MCT1 expression caused isolated islets to secrete insulin in response to pyruvate, without affecting glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. In vivo, transgene induction lowered fasting blood glucose, mimicking EIHI. Pyruvate challenge stimulated increased plasma insulin and smaller excursions in blood glucose in transgenic mice. Finally, in response to exercise, transgene induction prevented the normal inhibition of insulin secretion. Forced overexpression of MCT1 in β-cells thus replicates the key features of EIHI and highlights the importance of this transporter’s absence from these cells for the normal control of insulin secretion.
Opioid Receptor Blockade Prevents Exercise-Associated Autonomic Failure in Humans
Authors: Milman Sofiya , Leu James , Shamoon Harry , Vele Septimiu , Gabriely Ilan
Published: April 2012

Hypoglycemia and exercise both induce the release of β-endorphin, which plays an important role in the modulation of the autonomic response during subsequent events. Because opioid receptor (OR) blockade during antecedent hypoglycemia has been shown to prevent hypoglycemia-associated autonomic failure, we hypothesized that OR blockade during exercise would prevent exercise-associated autonomic failure (EAAF). We studied 8 healthy subjects on 2 consecutive days, each of whom participated in three different studies in random order. The protocol on day 1 involved one of the following: 1) two 90-min hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps plus naloxone infusion (control); 2) two 90-min hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps with exercise at 60% Vo2max, plus naloxone infusion (N+); or 3) same protocol as in the N+ group, but with saline infusion only (N−). On day 2, all were studied with stepped hyperinsulinemic-hypoglycemic clamps, using hormone concentrations and glucose turnover as indicators of hypoglycemia counterregulation. Compared with control, N− studies resulted in significantly blunted epinephrine and norepinephrine responses to subsequent hypoglycemia. Conversely, the N+ group exhibited unimpaired hypoglycemia counterregulation, characterized by appropriate increases in epinephrine, norepinephrine, and endogenous glucose production. Thus, OR blockade with naloxone during antecedent exercise prevents the development of acute EAAF by improving the catecholamine responses and by restoring endogenous glucose production.
The Transmission Problem for the Helmholtz Equation in R³
Authors: Kleefeld Andreas
Published: April 2012

The problem under consideration is the three-dimensional transmission problem for time
harmonic acoustic waves for two homogeneous media. A simply-connected and bounded region
with sufficiently smooth boundary is immersed in an infinite {medium. Each medium is c
haracterized by the space independent wave number κ and the density μ.}
The system of boundary integral equations is reviewed as well as an existence and
uniqueness result. The system is approximated by the boundary element collocation method
and consistency, stability, and convergence is proved. In addition, superconvergence is
proved and numerical results illustrate the agreement with these theoretical results.
No numerical results seem to be reported for this method yet.
Aperture Coupled Microstrip Short Backfire Antenna
Authors: Kirov Georgi , Chervenkov Georgi , Kalchev Chavdar
Published: April 2012

Aperture Coupled Microstrip Short Backfire Antenna

A broadband aperture coupled microstrip short backfire antenna is described herein. It consists of a feed part (a microstrip feed line and a coupling slot in a metal ground) and a radiating part with two radiators: a patch antenna and a backfire antenna. The bandwidth widening of the antenna is achieved by use of two resonances: a patch resonance and a backfire resonance. The antenna is designed to operate within the Ku-band. It has a frequency bandwidth of about 15% and a maximum gain of 11.5 dBi. Within the antenna bandwidth the gain and the radiation efficiency have values more than 9 dBi and 82.1%, respectively. The designed antenna has a simple and compact construction and high mechanical and electrical characteristics. It can be used as a single antenna or as an element of microstrip antenna arrays with various applications in the contemporary communication systems.
Bias Dependant Noise Wave Modelling Procedure of Microwave Fets
Authors: Pronić-Rančić Olivera , Marinković Zlatica , Marković Vera
Published: April 2012

Bias Dependant Noise Wave Modelling Procedure of Microwave Fets

A new noise modelling procedure of microwave field-effect transistors (FETs) valid for various bias conditions is suggested in this paper. The proposed procedure is based on transistor noise wave model. With the aim to improve the noise wave model accuracy, the modification of the model is done by inclusion of the error correction functions into the noise wave model equations. It leads to significant reduction of deviations between measured and simulated noise parameters and therefore better noise prediction is achieved. It is also shown that once determined error correction functions can be applied for accurate noise modelling of the same device for various bias conditions. The validity of the presented noise modelling approach is exemplified by modelling of a specific MESFET device in packaged form.
Stem Cell Characteristics of Ovarian Granulosa Cells - Review
Authors: Chronowska Ewa
Published: April 2012

Stem Cell Characteristics of Ovarian Granulosa Cells - Review

Recently increasing interest in stem cells of mammalian ovary has been observed. Potential somatic stem cells for the follicular theca and ovarian surface epithelium have been demonstated. On the other hand, despite intensive research, difinitive evidence for stem cell characteristics of granulosa cells is still to be found. Elucidation of stem cell properties of follicular granulosa cells may have important implications both from scientific and clinical point of view. The aim of this work is to review the current knowledge about stem cell properties of cells constituting main somatic compartment of the mammalian ovary, namely granulosa cells.
Analysis of Relationships Between Fattening and Slaughter Performance of Pigs and the Level of Intramuscular Fat (IMF) in Longissimus Dorsi Muscle
Authors: Tyra Mirosław , Żak Grzegorz
Published: April 2012

Analysis of Relationships Between Fattening and Slaughter Performance of Pigs and the Level of Intramuscular Fat (IMF) in Longissimus Dorsi Muscle

The aim of the study was to determine the level of basic fattening and slaughter traits (growth rate, level of meatiness and fatness, age at slaughter) depending on different levels of intramuscular fat that determine different sensory perceptions of consumers. Subjects were 4430 gilts from pedigree farms, which were tested in performance stations. The breed composition of the animals was as follows (head): Polish Large White - 1240, Polish Landrace - 2083, Puławska - 104, Hampshire - 35, Duroc - 152, Pietrain - 208, line 990 - 608. Animals were kept in individual pens and fed standard diets. Intramuscular fat (IMF) content of the longissimus dorsi muscle was determined by Soxhlet using the SOXTHERM SOX 406 system (Gerhardt). The level of IMF served as a basis for dividing the test animals into three groups: below 2% (group I), between 2% and 3% (group II) and above 3% (group III). Animal breed had the highest and highly significant effect on the level of all traits analysed. As regards age at slaughter and carcass meat percentage, an interaction was found between animal breed and the group factor determined based on IMF level (P≤0.001). The factor expressed as IMF group had no effect on the level of analysed traits (P>0.05). Therefore, the results of this analysis concerning the parameters obtained from live evaluation do not permit these data to be used in selection for improved IMF levels. The high rate of lean deposition in the modern breeds prevented genetic differences in the level of IMF to fully manifest themselves at a slaughter weight of about 100 kg. This unfavourable information leads one to look for other factors that determine variation of this trait.
Effect of Different Levels of Vitamin Premix Reduction or Removal During Finisher Period on Immunocompetence of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Alahyari-Shahrasb Majid , Moravej Hoseein , Bagherirad Mona , Shivazad Mahmood , Hadini Sheila
Published: April 2012

Effect of Different Levels of Vitamin Premix Reduction or Removal During Finisher Period on Immunocompetence of Broiler Chickens

Three experiments were conducted to compare the effect of a decreasing vitamin premix amount in diets from 29 to 42 days of age on performance and immunocompetence of broiler chickens in floor (experiments 1 and 2) and battery cage (experiment 3) systems. The diets were based on corn/soybean meal (experiment 1) and wheat/barley (experiments 2 and 3). On day 34, two birds from each replicate were selected and antibody responses to inoculated sheep red blood cells were determined. The results of experiments 1 and 2 showed that vitamin premix reduction/withdrawal at 29 days of age did not impair performance during the final rearing period. However, the results of experiment 3 showed that from 29 to 42 days of age, performance of birds fed the diet without vitamin premix (T1) was significantly lower than other treatments. The results of three experiments demonstrated that immunocompetence response was not affected by treatments in the finisher period. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated that in the battery cage system it is possible to reduce dietary vitamin premix during the finisher period but withdrawal can negatively affect performance of broilers. While in the floor system it is possible to withdraw vitamin supplements from finisher diets.
Functional regeneration and spectral reflectance of trees during succession in a highly diverse tropical dry forest ecosystem
Authors: Alvarez‐Añorve Mariana Y. , Quesada Mauricio , Sánchez‐Azofeifa G. Arturo , Avila‐Cabadilla Luis Daniel , Gamon John A.
Published: April 2012

•Premise of the study:The function of most ecosystems has been altered by human activities. To asses the recovery of plant communities, we must evaluate the recovery of plant functional traits. The seasonally dry tropical forest (SDTF), a highly threatened ecosystem, is assumed to recover relatively quickly from disturbance, but an integrated evaluation of recovery in floristic, structural, and functional terms has not been performed. In this study we aimed to (a) compare SDTF plant functional, floristic, and structural change along succession; (b) identify tree functional groups; and (c) explore the spectral properties of different successional stages.

•Methods:Across a SDTF successional gradient, we evaluated the change of species composition, vegetation structure, and leaf spectral reflectance and functional traits (related to water use, light acquisition, nutrient conservation, and CO2acquisition) of 25 abundant tree species.

•Key results:A complete recovery of SDTF takes longer than the time period inferred from floristic or structural data. Plant functional traits changed along succession from those that maximize photoprotection and heat dissipation in early succession, where temperature is an environmental constraint, to those that enhance light acquisition in late succession, where light may be limiting. A spectral indicator of plant photosynthetic performance (photochemical reflectance index) discriminated between early and late succession. This constitutes a foundation for further exploration of remote sensing technologies for studying tropical succession.

•Conclusions:A functional approach should be incorporated as a regular descriptor of forest succession because it provides a richer understanding of vegetation dynamics than is offered by either the floristic or structural approach alone.
Kidney Transplant with Multiple Renal Artery Grafts from Deceased Donors: Are Long-Term Graft and Patient Survival Compromised?
Authors: Laouad Inass , Bretagnol Anne , Fabre Elodie , Halimi Jean-Michel , Al-Najjar Azmi , Boutin Jean-Michel , Bruyère Franck , Nivet Hubert , Lebranchu Yvon , Büchler Matthias
Published: April 2012

Background—

Kidneys with multiple arteries are often transplanted. However, the long-term outcome of such kidneys recovered exclusively from deceased donors is not clear.

Objective—

To determine whether use of renal grafts with multiple arteries affects long-term graft survival and function.

Methods—

The outcomes of 259 consecutive kidney transplants between 1996 and 2000 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into 2 groups, multiple renal artery graft recipients (n = 70) and single renal artery graft recipients (n = 189). Short-term complications and long-term outcomes (survival rates, blood pressure after transplant, creatinine clearance, and proteinuria levels at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years after transplant) were compared between the 2 groups.

Results—

Early vascular complications were more common ( P = .02) in multiple artery graft recipients (18.6%) than in single artery graft recipients (7.9%), mainly because of occlusion of a polar artery in grafts with multiple renal arteries (7.1%). Urologic complications were no more frequent in one group than in the other (5.7% vs 5.3%; P = .89). The 2 groups did not differ significantly ( P = .33) in long-term graft survival, with a median follow-up of 9.05 years (range, 0.1–12.7 years). Mean (SD) for creatinine clearance (59.4 [22.6] vs 55.9 [20.3] mL/min; P = .47), proteinuria (0.77 [2.1] vs 0.4 [0.8] g/24 h; P = .19), and systolic blood pressure (133.6 [14.5] vs 133.7 [17.5] mm Hg; P = .85) did not differ significantly between the 2 groups 7 years after transplant.

Conclusions—

Kidney transplant with grafts containing multiple renal arteries rather than grafts with a single renal artery does not significantly influence patient and graft outcomes.
Assessment of the Gripability of Textured Ceramic Surfaces
Authors: Boulanger Matthew T. , Hudson Corey M.
Published: April 2012

Archaeologists have suggested that various methods of surface texturing, specifically those resulting in alternating ridges and grooves, affect the gripability of a ceramic vessel. Various methods of vessel texturing were applied to ceramic test tiles and evaluated using a tribometer outfitted with a malleable skinlike substrate. Nontextured (smoothed) ceramic tiles were similarly evaluated. Tiles were evaluated under both dry and wet conditions. Coefficients of static friction suggest that, under wet and dry conditions, smoothed surfaces generate less friction than textured surfaces and that not all textured surfaces produce the same amount of friction. Results indicate that vessel-wall texturing may be an adaptation for increased vessel longevity. Explanations of the development and use of textured pottery must now consider gripability along with a variety of factors related to vessel performance.
Proteomic profiling ofTectona grandisL. leaf
Authors: Quiala Elisa , Cañal María Jesús , Rodríguez Roberto , Yagüe Norma , Chávez Maité , Barbón Raúl , Valledor Luis
Published: April 2012

Tectona grandisL. (teak) is one of the premier hardwood timbers in the world, ranking at present in the top five tropical hardwood species in terms of worldwide plantation area. Characterization of the proteins present in teak leaves will provide a basis for the development of new tools aimed at assisting tree selection, the monitoring of plant propagation, and the certification of clonal and phenotypic identities. In this paper, we describe the extraction, separation, and identification of leaf proteins fromT. grandisusing aTCA/acetone protocol, 2DE, and MALDI‐TOF. AfterTCA/acetone protein extraction of leaves, 998 well‐resolved spots were detected in Coomassie‐stained gels within the 10–114 kDa relative molecular mass (Mr) range at a pHranging from 3 to 11. A total of 120 spots were digested and subjected toMS. Of these, 100 nonredundant protein species were successfully identified. Functional classification of the identified proteins revealed that proteins involved in photosynthesis, protein translation, and energy production were the most abundant. This work is the first high‐throughput attempt to study theT. grandisleaf proteome and represents a stepping stone for further differential expression proteomic studies related to growth, development, biomass production, and culture‐associated physiological responses.