bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localized Lesion of Caudal Part of Lobus Parolfactorius Caused Impulsive Choice in the Domestic Chick: Evolutionarily Conserved Function of Ventral Striatum
Authors: Izawa Ei-Ichi , Zachar Gergely , Yanagihara Shin , Matsushima Toshiya
Published: April 2018

Effects of bilateral chemical lesions of the medial basal ganglia [lobus parolfactorius (LPO)] were examined in 7- to 14-d-old domestic chicks. Chicks were trained in a color discrimination task, in which the subject had to peck one of the two colored beads associated with rewards that differed in quantity (amount of food) and/or temporal proximity (delay of food delivery from peck). In experiment 1, food was given without delay, and chicks successfully learned to choose a colored bead that was associated with a larger reward than the other. In experiment 2, a colored bead (red) was associated with a large reward delivered after a delay (D= 1, 2, or 3 sec), whereas another (yellow) was associated with a small reward delivered immediately. In intact and sham-operated conditions, chicks with a longerDchose the red bead progressively fewer times. Selective lesions to the caudal LPO (but not the rostral LPO) caused impulsive choice, and the ablated chicks chose the yellow bead and gained a small-immediate reward regardless ofD. However, when retrained in a null-delay condition (D= 0 sec), the lesioned chick chose the red bead again. Ability to associate novel colors with reward was also unimpaired. These results suggest that the LPO may be responsible for the anticipation of reward proximity and involved in a suppression of impulsiveness by which animals seek immediate gains. The present results also indicate a striking similarity in functional roles between the avian LPO and the nucleus accumbens/ventral striatum in mammals.
Representation of Odor Habituation and Timing in the Hippocampus
Authors: Deshmukh Sachin S. , Bhalla Upinder S.
Published: April 2018

We performed simultaneous single-neuron recordings from the hippocampus and the olfactory bulb of anesthetized, freely breathing rats. Odor response properties of neurons in the olfactory bulb and hippocampus were characterized as firing rate changes or respiration-coupled changes. A panel of five odors was used. The rats had not been exposed to the odors on the panel before the experiment. The olfactory bulb and hippocampal neurons responded to repeated odor presentations in two ways: first, by changes in firing rate, and second, by respiratory tuning changes. Approximately 60% of bulbar neurons, 48% of hippocampal CA1 neurons, and 12% of hippocampal CA3 neurons showed statistically significant responses. None of the odor-responsive neurons in either the bulb or hippocampus responded to all of the odors on the panel. Repeated 10 sec odor stimuli presented at the intervals of 20, 30, 60, 110, and 160 sec were used to analyze the effect of the interval on odor response properties of the recorded neurons. Bulbar neurons were relatively nonselective for odor interval. Hippocampal neurons showed unexpected selectivity for the interval between repeated odor presentations. CA1 and CA3 neurons responded to only one to three of the intervals in the range. On the basis of these findings, we postulate that the hippocampus has the ability to keep track of the time elapsed between consecutive odor stimuli. This may act as a neuronal substrate for habituation and for complex tasks such as odor-guided navigation.
Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus Changes the Firing Pattern of Pallidal Neurons
Authors: Hashimoto Takao , Elder Christopher M. , Okun Michael S. , Patrick Susan K. , Vitek Jerrold L.
Published: April 2018

To clarify the mechanism underlying improvement of parkinsonian signs by high-frequency electrical stimulation (HFS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN), we investigated the effects of STN HFS on neuronal activity of the internal and external segment of the globus pallidus (GPi and GPe, respectively) in two rhesus monkeys rendered parkinsonian by administration of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine. A scaled-down version of the chronic stimulating electrode used in humans, consisting of four metal contacts 0.50 mm in length each separated by 0.50 mm, was implanted through a cephalic chamber targeting the STN. Histological reconstruction revealed that the cathode was located in the STN in both monkeys. Extracellular recordings from a total of 110 pallidal neurons during STN stimulation were performed. Poststimulus time histograms of single neurons triggered by 2 Hz STN stimulation pulses at 2.4–3.0 V revealed short-latency excitations at 2.5–4.5 and 5.5–7.0 msec after stimulation onset and inhibitions at 1.0–2.5, 4.5–5.5, and 7.0–9.0 msec for both GPe and GPi neurons. These short-latency responses were present with 136 Hz stimulation, at voltages effective for alleviation of parkinsonian signs, resulting in a significant increase in mean discharge rate and a stimulus-synchronized regular firing pattern. These results indicate that activation of the STN efferent fibers and resultant changes in the temporal firing pattern of neurons in GPe and GPi underlie the beneficial effect of HFS in the STN in Parkinson's disease and further support the role of temporal firing patterns in the basal ganglia in the development of Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders.
Serum Transthyretin Monomer as a Possible Marker of Blood-to-CSF Barrier Disruption
Authors: Marchi Nicola , Fazio Vince , Cucullo Luca , Kight Kelly , Masaryk Thomas , Barnett Gene , Volgelbaum Michael , Kinter Michael , Rasmussen Peter , Mayberg Marc R. , Janigro Damir
Published: April 2018

The CNS is shielded from systemic influences by two separate barriers, the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-to-CSF barrier. Failure of either barrier bears profound significance in the etiology and diagnosis of several neurological diseases. Furthermore, selective opening of BBB tight junctions provides an opportunity for delivery of otherwise BBB impermeant drugs. Peripheral assessment of BBB opening can be achieved by detection in blood of brain-specific proteins that extravasate when these endothelial junctions are breached. We developed a proteomic approach to discover clusters of CNS-specific proteins with extravasation into serum that correlates with BBB openings. Protein profiles from blood samples obtained from patients undergoing iatrogenic BBB disruption (BBBD) with intra-arterial hyperosmotic mannitol were compared with pre-BBB opening serum. A low molecular weight protein (14 kDa) identified by mass spectroscopy as transthyretin (TTR) consistently correlated with BBBD. Protein gel electrophoresis and immunodetection confirmed that TTR was indeed extravasated in its monomeric form when CNS barriers were breached. The time course of TTR extravasation was compared with release from the brain of another BBB integrity marker, S-100β (11 kDa). Kinetic analysis revealed that the appearance of S-100β, presumably originating from perivascular astrocytic end feet, preceded extravasation of TTR by several minutes. Because TTR is localized primarily in choroid plexus and, as a soluble monomer, in CSF, we concluded that although S-100β is a marker of BBB integrity, TTR instead may be a peripheral tracer of blood-to-cerebrospinal barrier.
Functional Imaging and Optogenetics in Drosophila
Authors: Simpson Julie H , Looger Loren L
Published: April 2018

Understanding how activity patterns in specific neural circuits coordinate an animal’s behavior remains a key area of neuroscience research. Genetic tools and a brain of tractable complexity make Drosophila a premier model organism for these studies. Here, we review the wealth of reagents available to map and manipulate neuronal activity with light.
“Vocês me encontram em qualquer lugar”: realizando pesquisa longitudinal com adolescentes em situação de rua
Authors: Santana Juliana Prates , Raffaelli Marcela , Koller Sílvia Helena , De Morais Normanda Araújo
Published: April 2018

Com o objetivo de aprofundar a pesquisa longitudinal com populações de difícil acesso, este artigo descreve as estratégias metodológicas utilizadas em um estudo longitudinal realizado com 113 crianças e adolescentes em situação de rua em três capitais brasileiras. Além de descrever as diferentes etapas do processo de pesquisa, o artigo detalha as estratégias multimétodos que possibilitaram boa retenção de amostra (72% aos 6 meses e 62% aos 12 meses), bem como a validade dos dados resultantes da inserção ecológica e triangulação de dados. A análise de atrito revelou apenas algumas diferenças entre os adolescentes que foram retidos versus perdidos no seguimento dos indicadores demográficos e psicossociais. O exame das razões para o atrito fornece informações que podem ser usadas em futuras pesquisas de desenvolvimento em contextos atípicos. Por fim, defende-se que uma pesquisa desta natureza pode ter impactos positivos sobre o sistema de proteção de direitos e, conseqüentemente, sobre a rede de proteção dos participantes.
Evidências de validade convergente para o teste de Wartegg
Authors: Pessotto Fernando , Primi Ricardo
Published: April 2018

Evidências de validade convergente são observadas à partir de estudos utilizando-se de variáveis externas que apresentem algum grau de relação. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar tais evidências para o teste de Wartegg utilizando o Rorschach (R-PAS). Optou-se pelo emprego da análise de cluster visto que ela utiliza tanto do coeficiente alfa como do beta, tido como mais conservador, para a estimação dos agrupamentos das variáveis. Participaram do estudo 40 sujeitos divididos em dois grupos, sendo um composto por pacientes com diagnóstico de esquizofrenia e outro por sujeitos sem histórico de diagnóstico psiquiátrico. As idades variaram entre 21 e 70 anos (M=40; DP=12,8) sendo 36 sujeitos do sexo masculino. Os resultados indicaram 7 agrupamentos de itens, sendo 6 compostos por variáveis dos dois instrumentos. Além disso, verificou-se por meio da análise de regressão logística que um dos agrupamentos apresenta significância na predição do diagnóstico de esquizofrenia.
Validity evidence for the 4th edition of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children
Authors: Angeli dos Santos Acácia Aparecida , Muniz Monalisa , Marin Rueda Fabian Javier , Martins Rosana Maria Mohallem
Published: April 2018

This study aimed to find validity evidence for the WISC-IV through the relationship with external variables, analyzing possible associations between the factor indexes of the WISC-IV and a Cloze test that assesses reading comprehension. We evaluated 150 children ages 6-14 years, from the 1st to the 9th grade level. The statistical technique of structural equation modeling was applied through the program Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS). According to the results the factor index that best predicts reading comprehension is verbal comprehension, revealing a strong association with crystallized cognitive abilities. The results show validity evidence favorable to the WISC-IV interpretations, helping to bring it closer to more contemporary instruments in the assessment of intelligence as proposed by the CHC model.***Evidências de validade para a 4ª edição das Escalas Wechsler de Inteligência para Crianças***Este estudo teve como propósito buscar evidências de validade por meio da relação com variáveis externas para o WISC-IV, analisando possíveis associações entre os índices fatoriais do WISC-IV e o Teste de Cloze, que avalia a compreensão de leitura. Foram avaliadas 150 crianças com idades entre 6 a 14 anos, do 1º ao 9º ano do ensino fundamental. Recorreu-se à técnica estatística modelagem de equações estruturais, por meio do programa Analysis of Moment Structures – AMOS. De acordo com os resultados encontrados o índice fatorial que mais prediz a compreensão de leitura é o de compreensão verbal, revelando forte associação com as habilidades cognitivas cristalizadas. Os resultados revelam evidências de validade favoráveis às interpretações do WISC-IV, contribuindo para aproximá-lo de instrumentos mais contemporâneos na avaliação da inteligência, como propõe o modelo CHC.
PENILAIAN KONDISI EKOLOGI PERAIRAN UNTUK PENGEMBANGAN BUDIDAYA KERANG HIJAU (Perna viridis L.) DI PESISIR KUALA LANGSA, ACEH
Authors: Sagita Andi , Kurnia Rahmat , Sulistiono Sulistiono
Published: April 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menilai kondisi ekologi untuk pengembangan budidaya kerang hijau di pesisir Kuala Langsa, Aceh. Data ekologi perairan dikumpulkan di 12 titik sampling pada Agustus, September dan Oktober untuk mewakili musim hujan, serta Maret, April dan Mei untuk mewakili musim kemarau. Data dianalisis dengan analisis komponen utama (principal component analysis/PCA). Suhu perairan pesisir Kuala Langsa berkisar 25,5 – 35,6 oC dengan rata-rata 30,5 ± 1,7 oC; salinitas 25,9 – 34,0 ppt dengan rata-rata 29,9 ± 1,3 oC; pH 7,0 – 9,2 dengan rata-rata 8,1 ± 0,3; oksigen terlarut 3,9 – 6,8  mg/l dengan rata-rata 5,5 ± 0,5 mg/l; kecepatan arus berkisar 0,1 – 0,9 m/s dengan rata-rata 0,3 ± 0,1 m/s; serta kelimpahan fitoplankton berkisar 1,32 x 105 sel/m3 hingga 6,86 x 105 sel/m3 dengan rata-rata 3,88 x 105 ± 1,08 x 105 sel/ m3. PCA yang diaplikasikan pada seluruh data menghasilkan dua komponen utama, yaitu PC1 dan PC2 dengan nilai akar ciri (eigenvalue) sebesar 2,096 dan 1,770; dimana PC1 secara kumulatif dapat menjelaskan ragam seluruh data sebesar 34,9% yang dibangun oleh parameter salinitas, suhu dan plankton, sedangkan PC2 sebesar 64,4% yang dibangun oleh parameter oksigen terlarut dan salinitas.  Berdasarkan analisis dengan membandingkan parameter ekologi perairan untuk budidaya kerang hijau berdasarkan literatur maka dapat disimpulkan bahwa kondisi ekologi perairan pada musim hujan dan kemarau dapat mendukung pengembangan budidaya kerang hijau di pesisir Kuala Langsa, Aceh. The research aims to assessment of waters ecology condition for the development of green mussel cultivation in coastal of Kuala Langsa, Aceh. Data of waters ecology parameters collected at 12 sampling points in August, September and October to represent the rainy season, while March, April and May to represent the dry season. Data analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA). Temperature of  waters coastal Kuala Langsa ranged from 25.5 – 35.6 oC average of 30.5 ± 1.7 oC; salinity 25.9 – 34.0 ppt average of 29.9 ± 1.3 oC; pH 7.0 – 9.2 average of 8.1 ± 0.3; dissolved oxygen from 3.9 – 6.8 average of 5.5 ± 0.5 mg/l; current velocity of 0.1 – 0.9 m/s average of 0.3 ± 0.1 m/s; and abundance of fitoplankton ranged of 1.32 x 105 cell/m3 to 6.86 x 105 cell/m3. PCA applied to all data produced two principal component is PC1 and PC2 with a eigenvalue of 2.096 and 1.770; where PC1 on cumulatively can explain 34.9% of all data collected, with built by parameters of salinity, temperature and plankton, while PC2 is 64.4% with built by parameters dissolved oxygen dan salinity. Based on the analysis by comparing waters ecology parametes for green mussel culture based on the literature, it can be concluded that the waters ecology condition can support development of green mussel culture in coastal Kuala Langsa, Aceh.
Engagement in exercise for people with Parkinson’s: What is meaningful?
Authors: Mulligan Hilda , Armstrong Andrew , Francis Robert , Hitchcock Holly , Hughes Erin , Thompson Jenny , Wilkinson Amanda , Hale Leigh
Published: April 2018

Whilst it is suggested that exercise is integral in the management of Parkinson’s, there is minimal literature exploring this population’s perceptions about exercise, and how these perceptions relate to standardised physical outcome measures. This mixed method study explored participants’ views on an exercise programme which was offered as part of an intervention in a randomised controlled trial for people with Parkinson’s. Participants in the intervention group (n = 21) received an exercise programme and a cognitive enrichment programme while the control group (n = 20) continued with usual care. Semi-structured, face to face, audio-recorded individual or group interviews were undertaken with the intervention group and data analysed thematically. Quantitative data extracted from the clinical trial included the 6 Minute Walk Test and the mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (mini-BESTest). The themes: ‘Having trust in professional guidance’, and ‘An understanding and supportive environment’ contributed to the overarching theme of ‘A sense of individual empowerment’. Together the themes demonstrated meaningful holistic benefits gained by participants, which differed from the non-statistically significant quantitative results from the clinical trial. Small group tailored exercise effectively addressed multiple cornerstones of health in people with Parkinson’s, creating an overall sense of individual empowerment. This study also suggests that research may overemphasise reporting of standardised physical outcomes to the detriment of what participants perceive as meaningful outcomes.
ОБГРУНТУВАННЯ МАРКЕТИНГОВОЇ СТРАТЕГІЇ РОЗВИТКУ АГРАРНОГО ПІДПРИЄМСТВА РИНКОВОГО ТИПУ
Authors: Євтушок О. В. , Ліпова О. Л. , Бахчиванжи В. В.
Published: April 2018

У статті доведено, що маркетингові стратегії в управлінні діяльністю і розвитком підприємств єневід’ємною складовою системи аграрного менеджменту. Здійснено оцінку політичних, економічних,соціальних, технологічних факторів макроекономічного середовища аграрних підприємств України наоснові PEST – аналізу. Виявлено макроекономічні фактори формування маркетингової стратегії роз-витку аграрного підприємства: недосконалість механізму державної підтримки аграрних підприємств,відсутність підготовки кадрів з аграрного маркетингу, недосконале фінансово-кредитне забезпеченняаграрного сектора, непослідовна аграрна політика, невирішеність проблеми формування ринку земліта нестабільність податкової політики.Побудовано матрицю SWOT - аналізу зовнішнього маркетингового середовища. Рекомендо-вано в перспективі в маркетинговій діяльності застосовувати стратегію «використання сильнихсторін для знешкодження зовнішніх загроз». На основі вирішення економіко-математичної задачі об-ґрунтовано ефективність витрат на маркетингову діяльність в аграрному підприємстві.
РОЛЬ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ В УПРАВЛІННІ ПІДПРИЄМСТВОМ
Authors: Пчелянська Г. Б. , Васьковська К. О. , Пчелянський Д. П.
Published: April 2018

У статті досліджено роль інформаційних технологій в управлінні підприємством, розкрито сут-ність та перспективи впровадження інформаційних технологій в управлінні сучасними підприємствами.Відображено тенденції впровадження інформаційних технологій у виробничу діяльність підприємства.Розглянуто концепції управління підприємством з використанням інформаційних технологій. Проаналі-зовані як переваги так і недоліки застосування інформаційних технологій в процесі прийняття управ-лінських рішень. Рекомендовано запровадження інформаційних технологій в управлінні підприємст-вом, що дозволить забезпечити безперервний облік та контроль ресурсів на підприємстві, оперативнупідготовку аналітичних документів, прогнозування показників діяльності підприємства, підвищенняефективності прийняття управлінських рішень.
Estimation of the Weights of Almond Nuts Based on Physical Properties through Data Mining
Authors: GÜRBÜZ Feyza , DEMİR Bünyamin , ESKİ İkbal , KUŞ Zeynel Abidin , YILMAZ Kadir Uğurtan , İLİKÇİOĞLU Ertuğrul , ERCİŞLİ Sezai
Published: April 2018

Quality attributes are the major parameters designating market values of the agricultural goods and commodities. Several practices are applied to improve quality parameters of the fruits and vegetables. Such quality attributes should also be estimated through various approaches before to design of equipment and tools used in handling and processing of these goods and to design storage facilities. Data mining is a novel approach used to estimate various attributes or quality parameters of the fruits from previously measured attributes. Different algorithms embedded into data mining operations may yield quite accurate and reliable equations for estimation of quality attributes. Almond is a significant cash crop for growers. Since almond is quite tolerant to droughts and salinity, it is preferred in various parts of the country by producers. Weight is the primary quality parameter designating market value of the almonds. This study was conducted to estimate nut weights of seven different almond varieties and to develop an equation for the estimation of nut weights. Data mining approach was used to estimate nut weights from physical fruit quality attributes (kernel length, width, thickness, arithmetic mean diameter, geometric mean diameter, sphericity, surface area, volume, shape index and aspect ratio). Present findings revealed quite significant, accurate and practicable rules to estimate the nut weights of different almond varieties. It was concluded that data mining could be used as a reliable tool to estimate the nut weights of different almond varieties from the physical attributes of the fruits.
Influence of Sustainable Fertilization on Yield and Quality Food of Mountain Grassland
Authors: SAMUIL Costel , STAVARACHE Mihai , SIRBU Culita , VINTU Vasile
Published: April 2018

The semi-natural grasslands in Romanian mountains are particularly important for the sustainable development of this region. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the effects of mineral and manure fertilization upon the sward in order to recommend certain versions which have minor repercussions upon the plant diversity. In this study, we examined the influence of organic and mineral fertilizers on the production, biodiversity and quality of green fodder. The experiment was set up in mountain grassland of Festuca rubra L. and Agrostis capillaris L., during five years. In the experiment was evaluated the effects of management treatments on productivity, biodiversity and quality of the forage grass. The rate applications of fertilizers determine the number of species and the rate of production. The small quantities of organic and mineral nutrients (10 t·ha-1 manure and 30 kg·ha-1 nitrogen) can lead to larger yields while at the same time, improving biodiversity conservation and the quality of forage. Using a low input-based management system can be a solution that will lead to higher yields and contribute to biodiversity conservation and the good quality of the forage. In conclusion the use of a fertilizer management regime based on small quantities of organic and mineral nutrients can lead to larger yields while at the same time, improving biodiversity conservation and the quality of forage.
Exogenous Carbon Magnifies Mycorrhizal Effects on Growth Behaviour and Sucrose Metabolism in Trifoliate Orange
Authors: TIAN Li , LI Yan , WU Qiang-Sheng
Published: April 2018

Arbuscular mycorrhizas (AMs) need the carbohydrates from host plants for its growth, whereas it is not clear whether exogenous carbon affects mycorrhizal roles. A two-chambered rootbox was divided into root + hyphae chamber and hyphae chamber (free of roots) by 37-μm nylon mesh, in which trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata) seedlings and Funneliformis mosseae were applied into root + hyphae chamber, and exogenous 40 mmol/L fructose, glucose and sucrose was applied to hyphae chamber. Application of exogenous sugars dramatically elevated root mycorrhizal colonization. Sole arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation significantly promoted plant growth and root morphology than non-AMF treatment. Mycorrhiza-improved plant growth and root modification could be enlarged by exogenous carbon, especially fructose. Exogenous carbon markedly increased root fructose, glucose and sucrose accumulation in mycorrhizal plants, especially sucrose. Exogenous fructose significantly reduced leaf and root sucrose synthase (SS) activity in synthesis direction and increased them in cleavage direction in AMF seedlings. Exogenous glucose and sucrose heavily elevated root SS activity of mycorrhizal seedlings in synthesis and cleavage direction and reduced leaf SS activity in synthesis direction. Leaf acid invertase (AI) and neutral invertase (NI) activities of mycorrhizal seedlings were decreased by exogenous carbon, except sucrose in NI. Exogenous fructose significantly increased root AI and NI activity in mycorrhizal plants. These results implied that mycorrhizal inoculation represented positive effects on plant growth, root morphology, and sucrose metabolism of trifoliate orange, which could be magnified further by exogenous carbon, especially fructose.
Pigments, Polyphenols and Antioxidant Activity of Leaf Extracts from Four Wild Rose Species Grown in Sicily
Authors: D'ANGIOLILLO Francesca , MAMMANO Michele Massimo , FASCELLA Giancarlo
Published: April 2018

Leaf methanolic extracts of four wild Rose species (Rosa canina L., R. corymbifera Borkh., R. micrantha Borrer ex Sm and R. sempervirens L.) grown in Sicily were analysed in order to evaluate differences among indigenous roses which could be used such as source of bioactive compounds and natural antioxidants. Leaves were harvested during two different periods (June and October) and their morphological characteristics were described. Leaf content of chlorophylls, total anthocyanins, total flavonoids, total polyphenols (Folin-Ciocalteu method) and antioxidant activity (DPPH method) were determined. Results showed that the contents of chlorophylls and carotenoids were higher in leaves of all species harvested in June than in those harvested in October. On the contrary, total anthocyanins of R. micrantha and R. corymbifera leaves were higher in October. Total polyphenol content was higher in leaves of all species were harvested in October. No difference in total flavonoids content was recorded between the two harvest periods but only among the four species. Antioxidant activity was generally high in leaf extracts of all species in both periods and, particularly, in R. micrantha leaves harvested in June. These outcomes seem to support the assessment that leaves harvested from some Sicilian wild roses may be used as promising source of healthy compounds and that their content varies with the species and harvest period.
Physiological and Biochemical Behaviour of Gleditsia triacanthos L. Young Seedlings Under Drought Stress Conditions
Authors: KEBBAS Salima , BENSEDDIK Tourkia , MAKHLOUF Hakima , AID Fatiha
Published: April 2018

Drought affects a wide part of the world and constitutes one of the most important limiting factors for growth and development of vegetation cover. Plants evolved several physiological and biochemical mechanisms to cope with biotic and abiotic stresses. Gleditsia L. (Fabaceae) is a small genus of typically spiny trees native to America, Asia, and Africa. Among this genus Gleditsia triacanthos L. belongs to drought-tolerant species and could be a long-term solution for reforestation of dry land areas. The aim of our work is to study the impact water stress on G. triacanthos plants at early stage of development. After six weeks of culture, water stress was imposed during 19 days. A gradual dehydration of the soil caused a progressive drop in the relative water content (RWC) down to 60.54±2.06% at the end of treatment. On the other hand, G. triacanthos young seedlings show an important osmotic adjustment by an early accumulation of proline. The phenylpropanoids metabolism was also affected by water stress where a significant increase in total polyphenols, total flavonoids and anthocyanin concentrations was recorded. These compounds could play a dual role both in osmoregulation mechanism and antioxidant system. G. triacanthos stressed plants appear to protect its photosystems by increasing carotenoids rate and maintain a stable Chl a/b ratio despite a substantial decrease in chlorophyll pigments (Chl a+b) content.
Optimisation of Transplant Age in Combination with Dark-chilling to Enhance the Biological Quality of Broccoli Cultivated in Summer
Authors: GRABOWSKA Aneta , SEKARA Agnieszka , KALISZ Andrzej , KUNICKI Edward , WOJCIECHOWSKA Renata , KOPTA Tomáš
Published: April 2018

Under field conditions, crops are exposed simultaneously to more than one environmental stress factor. Controlled abiotic stress applied at the transplant stage can be used as a tool for inducing stress memory, improving stress tolerance after transplanting, and enhancing the nutraceutical value of the yield. The aim of present study was to determine the effect of dark-chilling at 2 °C for 1 and 2 weeks on the tolerance of broccoli seedlings of various ages against adverse conditions in the field and the chemical composition of the inflorescences. Two separate planting programmes were undertaken in the summer. In general, planting delay by about 1 month resulted in an increase in dry weight of about 3%, ascorbic acid (38%), soluble sugars (18%), K (14%), P (13%), Zn (12%), Fe (8%), and Mn (9%) in broccoli inflorescences. Planting of young, 4-week-old seedlings resulted in higher ascorbic acid content in broccoli inflorescences of about 15%, soluble sugars (7%), K (5%), P (6%), Mg (4%), Na (11%), and Zn (3%) in broccoli inflorescences as compared to 10-week-old ones. Chilling of seedlings for two weeks caused an increase in dry weight in broccoli inflorescences of about 6%, ascorbic acid (15%), soluble sugars (12%), K (2%), P (2%), Mg (5%), Zn (3%), Fe (4%), and Mn (6%) as compared to the non-chilled control. The results indicated that the age of the seedlings and dark-chilling influenced the level of chemicals related to taste and biological value of broccoli inflorescences in a complex way. There was no general superiority or interaction of any of the experimental factors affecting all health-related compounds. Dark-chilling can be considered as a practice of broccoli seedling management before transplanting, positively affecting some yield parameters through stress memory induction.
Proline and Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Some Strawberry Cultivars under Drought and Recovery
Authors: GULEN Hatice , KESICI Muge , CETINKAYA Cem , ERGIN Sergul
Published: April 2018

This study examines the molecular effects of drought and recovery applications on four strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch) cultivars known as relatively heat-tolerant [‘Redlands Hope’ (‘R. Hope’) and ‘Camarosa’] and heat-sensitive [‘Festival’ and ‘Cal. Giant-3’ (‘CG-3’)]. After frigo seedlings were grown in a greenhouse for eight weeks (until they had five-six leaves) in a pot, 10% Poliethyleneglycol 6000 (PEG) was applied in order to compose drought condition for 15 days. Following PEG application, plants were watered without PEG for 15 days to observe the recovery. Leaf relative water content (RWC), loss of turgidity, cell membrane injury, proline content and the activities of ascorbate peroxidase (APX, EC 1.1.11.1), glutathione reductase (GR, EC 1.6.4.2) and peroxidase (PRX, EC 1.11.1.7) were determined in leaf tissues taken from plants at the end of the drought and recovery applications. Although membrane injury was increased by the PEG application, it reduced almost to the control levels at the end of the recovery period. Proline contents were found higher in cvs. ‘R. Hope’ and ‘Camarosa’ than cvs. ‘Festival’ and ‘CG-3’ under drought conditions. APX and GR enzymes showed great activities in drought applied plants of heat-tolerant cultivars. Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) of basic PRX isozymes yielded three protein bands with Rf = 0.45, Rf = 0.55 and Rf = 0.60 that were sharply increased their activities by PEG and recovery applications in cvs. ‘R. Hope’ and ‘Camarosa’. In addition, leaves of all cultivars exposed to drought rolled up and had brown colour in various level as an indication of tolerance. Indeed ‘Camarosa’ and ‘R. Hope’ showed better recovery performance after rewatering than ‘Festival’ and ‘CG-3’. All data indicated that heat-tolerant cultivars showed relatively drought tolerance in this study.
Seeds of Giant Dodder (Cuscuta reflexa) as a Function of Extract Procedure and Solvent Nature
Authors: NOUREEN Shazia , NOREEN Sobia , GHUMMAN Shazia Akram , BATOOL Fozia , ARSHAD Mahira , NOREEN Fozia , ISHTIAQ Umair , BUKHARI Syed Nasir Abbas
Published: April 2018

Seeds of a renowned medicinal plant, giant dodder (Cuscuta reflexa), were assessed to appraise the effect of solvent and extraction technique variation on antioxidants potential. Dodder seed, also called cuscuta seed, has been considered superb tonic in traditional herbal medication for eyes, liver, spleen and kidney. Results show that selected solvent and procedure plays a key role in the composition and activity of extractable material. Three extraction procedures Orbital shaker, Decoction and Ultrasonic assisted extraction and five different solvents n-hexane, ethyl acetate, 100% methanol, 80% methanol and 60% methanol were used to get optimized conditions. Total phenolic and flavonoids content were found maximum in the extracts of aqueous organic system containing 80% methanol in Ultrasonic assisted extraction method but in case of tannins ethyl acetate and Orbital shaker extraction was found more suitable partner. Antioxidant estimation assays showed a little bit variation as DPPH and ABTS exhibited maximum inhibition in 80% methanol and Ultrasonic assisted extraction but 100% methanol was found better for FRAP assay. Decoction results were mostly in between the both Orbital shaker and Ultrasonic assisted extraction. Overall results indicate that coexistence of polar solvents and Ultrasonic assisted extraction gives a better choice for extractability of potent antioxidants from seeds. HPLC analysis confirmed presence of valuable phenolic acids. Pearson’s correlation coefficient reveals a significant relationship between extracted components and antioxidant capacity P< 0.05 or 0.01.
Physicochemical Diversity Among Barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.) Fruits from Eastern Anatolia
Authors: ERSOY Nilda , KUPE Muhammed , SAGBAS Halil Ibrahim , ERCISLI Sezai
Published: April 2018

Wild edible fruits have been gaining much interest more recently because of their better biochemical content and widely use in ethno medicine treating common disease such as cold, fever and other medicinal claims are now supported with sound scientific evidences. In this study, diversity of some important physicochemical characteristics (plant growth habit, fruit shape, fruit color, fruit weight, pulp ratio, soluble solid content, total phenolics, total anthocyanin, antioxidant activity, sugars, organic acids) of fruits from fourteen promising barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.) selections grown in Erzurum province in Turkey were investigated. Significant differences were observed between the studied genotypes for most of the physicochemical parameters. Fruit weight and pulp ratio were found between 0.102 (25ERZ5) and 0.342 g (25ERZ7) and 60.81% (25ERZ2) and 75.41% (25ERZ11). Total phenolic and anthocyanin content ranged from 2281 (25ERZ5) to 3462 (25ERZ7) as mg GAE per liter fruit juice and 360 to 874 mg as cyanidin-3-glucoside per liter fruit juice. Glucose and fructose were found to be dominant sugars in all barberry accessions analyzed.
Characterization of Trametes versicolor: Medicinal Mushroom with Important Health Benefits
Authors: POP Raluca M. , PUIA Ion Cosmin , PUIA Aida , CHEDEA Veronica S. , LEOPOLD Nicolae , BOCSAN Ioana C. , BUZOIANU Anca D.
Published: April 2018

Trametes species represents a rich source of nutritive compounds with important pharmacological properties like antioxidant, antiinflammatory and anti-cancer properties. However, factors like genetic background, harvesting period, geographic location, climatic conditions and others are influencing the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds, their fingerprint and their concentration. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant capacity, total phenolic compounds and total flavonoids content of two mushroom species, namely Tramestes versicolor (TV) and Trametes gibbosa (TG), mushrooms with potential health benefits, harvested from north-west part of Romania. In order to determine the phenolic compounds profile, water, methanol, and acetone mushroom extracts were analyzed using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy and LC-MS analysis. In total 28 compounds were tentatively identified as phenolic acids (11 compounds), flavonols (6 compounds), flavones (6 compounds), coumarins (2 compounds), flavanols, isoflavonoids and biflavonoids (1 compound). The highest antioxidant activity was determined for the methanolic extract while the highest total polyphenols content and total flavonoids content were determined for the water extract. The results obtained suggested that Trametes species can be considered important sources of bioactive compounds, their phenolics composition and content being influenced by a series of factors like geographic area origin and genetic background.
Assessment of Former Manors as Rural Landscape Elements: Case Study of Northern Lithuania
Authors: SAULIENE Ingrida , SUKIENE Laura , ZALESKIENE Erika , SAULYS Audrius , AUKSELIS Kestutis
Published: April 2018

Evaluation of the former manors as rural landscape elements and identification the recreational potential of former manor environments is discussed in this study. Paper analyses the infrastructure and landscape components of former manors located outside settlements in the district of Pakruojis, Lithuania, and examines their suitability for employment within recreational activities. Historical data on former manors were collected by analyzing archival material and were supplemented with information obtained during expeditions by interviewing the people who currently live in the former manors. All described manors, buildings, and historical greenery have been established in open places. No parts of villages, roads, forest or forest stands are incorporated in these territories. The surveyed former manors are accompanied by parkland. The manor parks analyzed in this study are dominated by native plants, which account for at least 75% of the trees. An analysis of the diversity of the species revealed that Tilia cordata prevails (54-74%) in the majority of manors. The variety of park styles reflects the evolution of the European parks from Baroque parks (Geruciai, Pamusis II) to Romanticism (Dovydiskis) style. Visitors can marvel at the greenery composition of historic parks, explore age-old (Pamusis II, Geruciai) and fabled (Pavezgiai, Pamusis II) trees, and taste the fruit from historical orchards. In the studied territory there is a need to preserve the manor parks because they make a specific contribution to the overall form and aesthetic of the rural landscape, play an important role in the conservation of biodiversity, and represent significant cultural and historical landmarks.
Aplicabilidade do método modificado de Washburn para medidas de ângulo de contato de carbonato de cálcio
Authors: Valencia G. A. , Pileggi R. G.
Published: April 2018

Resumo Dispersões cerâmicas apresentam propriedades físicas e químicas fortemente influenciadas por forças superficiais entre partículas e o líquido. Como estratégia para diminuir impactos ambientais, dispersões cerâmicas estão tornando-se mais concentradas, resultando em sistemas mais complexos e mais susceptíveis às forças superficiais. Caracterizar a molhabilidade das partículas pelo líquido é uma forma de determinar o efeito dessas forças. Molhabilidade representa a grandeza de um líquido se espalhar sobre um sólido, descrita pelo ângulo de contato. Para pós, é recomendado o método modificado de Washburn, baseado na ascensão capilar do líquido em um tubo contendo o pó. Nesse trabalho objetivou-se medir valores de ângulo de contato de carbonato de cálcio em duas granulometrias com o propósito de avaliar a aplicabilidade do método modificado de Washburn para medidas de ângulo de contato de pós cerâmicos. As medidas de ângulo de contato utilizando aparato simplificado mostraram-se adequadas e sensíveis à granulometria, preparação da amostra e porosidade do sistema. Quanto menor a porosidade do sistema, menores foram os ângulos de contato calculados. Contudo, a variação dos valores calculados e da literatura sugere que os ângulos de contato calculados pelo método modificado de Washburn sejam comparativos, desde que se respeite a mesma configuração e preparação de amostra.
Influence of the fabrication method on the fracture behavior of all-ceramic prosthesis
Authors: Piccoli A. C. , Borba M.
Published: April 2018

Abstract Different methods are available to produce all-ceramic dental prosthesis. Each processing step may introduce flaws to the material, which compromises its properties and reliability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of fabrication method on the fracture behavior of prosthetic crowns produced with an alumina-based glass-infiltrated zirconia-reinforced ceramic. Two groups of all-ceramic crowns were produced according to the fabrication method of the infrastructure (IS) (n=30): IZC - IS produced by CAD-CAM; IZS - IS produced by slip-casting. The IS were veneered with porcelain and cemented to fiber-reinforced composite dies with resin cement. Crowns were loaded in compression to failure using a universal testing machine, at 1 mm/min crosshead speed and 37 ºC distilled water. Fractography was performed using stereomicroscope and SEM. Data were statistically analyzed with Student’s t test (α=0.05) and Weibull analysis. There were no significant differences among the experimental groups for fracture load (p=0.481) and Weibull modulus. For both groups, the failure mode was catastrophic failure involving IS and porcelain. It was concluded that the fabrication methods evaluated resulted in all-ceramic crowns with similar fracture behavior and reliability.
Factors associated with outcome of endovascular treatment of iliac occlusive disease: a single-center experience
Authors: Soares Rafael de Athayde , Matielo Marcelo Fernando , Brochado-Neto Francisco Cardoso , Cury Marcus Vinícius Martins , Costa Veridiana Borges , Sanjuan Maria Clara Pereira , Pecego Christiano Stchelkunoff , Sacilotto Roberto
Published: April 2018

Abstract Background Endovascular treatment (ET) of iliac occlusive disease (IOD) is well established in literature. Use of stents in IOD has achieved long-term limb salvage and patency rates similar to those of open surgery, with lower morbidity and mortality rates. Objectives To report the long-term outcomes, particularly limb salvage and patency rates, of ET for IOD and the factors associated with these outcomes. Methods This retrospective cohort study included patients with IOD who underwent iliac angioplasty (IA), between January 2009 and January 2015. Patients with critical limb ischemia or incapacitating claudication were included. Results In total, 48 IA procedures were performed in 46 patients, with an initial technical success rate of 95.83%. Failure occurred in two patients, who were excluded, leaving 44 patients and 46 IA. The primary patency, secondary patency, limb salvage, and survival rates at 1200 days were 88%, 95.3%, 86.3%, and 69.9%, respectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression revealed that the primary patency rate was significantly worse in patients with TASC type C/D than in patients with TASC type A/B (p = 0.044). Analysis of factors associated with major amputation using Cox regression showed that the rate of limb loss was greater in patients with TASC type C/D (p = 0.043). Male gender was associated with reduced survival (p = 0.011). Conclusions TASC type C/D was associated with a higher number of reinterventions and with worse limb loss and primary patency rates. Male gender was associated with a worse survival rate after ET of IOD.
The ORBITA trial: A point of view
Authors: Oliveira Vitor Dornela de , Giugni Fernando Rabioglio , Martins Eduardo Bello , Azevedo Diogo Freitas Cardoso de , Lima Eduardo Gomes , Serrano Júnior Carlos Vicente
Published: April 2018

Summary Treatment of stable coronary artery disease (CAD) relies on improved prognosis and relief of symptoms. National and international guidelines on CAD support the indication for revascularization in patients with limiting symptoms and refractory to drug treatment. Previous studies attested the efficacy of angioplasty to improve angina as well as the functional capacity of patients with symptomatic stable CAD. The ORBITA trial, recently published in an international journal, showed no benefit in terms of exercise tolerance compared to a placebo procedure in a population of single-vessel patients undergoing contemporary percutaneous coronary intervention. In this point of view article, the authors discuss the ORBITA trial regarding methodological issues, limitations and clinical applicability.
Associations among body composition, inflammatory profile and disease extent in ulcerative colitis patients
Authors: Urbano Ana Paula Signori , Sassaki Ligia Yukie , Dorna Mariana de Souza , Presti Paula Torres , Carvalhaes Maria Antonieta de Barros Leite , Martini Ligia Araújo , Ferreira Ana Lucia Anjos
Published: April 2018

Summary Objective: The aim of our study was to assess body composition status and its association with inflammatory profile and extent of intestinal damage in ulcerative colitis patients during clinical remission. Method: This is a cross-sectional study in which body composition data (phase angle [PhA], fat mass [FM], triceps skin fold thickness [TSFt], mid-arm circumference [MAC], mid-arm muscle circumference [MAMC], adductor pollicis muscle thickness [APMt]), inflammatory profile (C-reactive protein [CRP], a1-acid glycoprotein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR]) and disease extent were recorded. Results: The mean age of the 59 patients was 48.1 years; 53.3% were women. Most patients were in clinical remission (94.9%) and 3.4% was malnourished according to body mass index. PhA was inversely correlated with inflammatory markers such as CRP (R=-0.59; p<0.001) and ESR (R=-0.46; p<0.001) and directly correlated with lean mass: MAMC (R=0.31; p=0.01) and APMt (R=0.47; p<0.001). Lean mass was inversely correlated with non-specific inflammation marker (APMt vs. ESR) and directly correlated with hemoglobin values (MAMC vs. hemoglobin). Logistic regression analysis revealed that body cell mass was associated with disease extent (OR 0.92; 95CI 0.87-0.97; p<0.01). Conclusion: PhA was inversely correlated with inflammatory markers and directly correlated with lean mass. Acute inflammatory markers were correlated with disease extent. Body cell mass was associated with disease extent.
Assessment of the prescription of red blood cell concentrates in the pediatric age group
Authors: Faria João Carlos Pina , Victorino Camila Augusta , Souza Fabíola Isabel Suano de , Sarni Roseli Oselka Saccardo
Published: April 2018

Summary Objective: To verify the adequacy of red blood cell (RBC) prescription to pediatric patients in different sectors of a pediatric hospital. Method: A retrospective study was conducted including 837/990 RBC transfusion requisition forms for children and adolescents (0 to 13 years old) filed in between January 2007 and April 2015 by the pediatricians of the emergency room (ER), infirmary ward and intensive care unit (pICU). Transfusion requisition forms belonging to patients with chronic anemia or acute hemorrhage, as well as incompletes requisition forms, were excluded. Results: Trigger, prescribed volume and subtype of RBC concentrates were adequate in 532 (65.3%), 460 (58.8%) and 805 (96.2%) of the transfusions, respectively. When the clinical picture was considered, prescription adequacy was higher compared to the use of the hemoglobin level alone (70.9% vs. 41%). The pICU had the highest correct trigger percentage (343 [71.6%]; p<0.001) while the ER showed more often adequate prescribed volumes (119 [66.1%]; p=0.020). The most common inadequacy regarding volume was that of prescriptions above the recommendation > 15 mL/kg found in 309 cases (36.9%). Thirty-two (32) RBC subtypes were requested and none were consistent with current recommendations. Conclusion: The results obtained in our study showed that RBC transfusion occurred more appropriately when the clinical picture was taken into account at request. There was a tendency to prescribe higher volumes and RBC subtypes without the justification of current protocols. Hemotherapic teachings at undergraduate level and medical residency must be improved.
Fulminant liver failure in a street runner: Effects of heat stroke
Authors: Castro Renata Rodrigues Teixeira de , Costa Filho Rubens , Nóbrega Antonio Claudio Lucas da
Published: April 2018

Summary We present a clinical case of liver failure induced by heat stroke.