bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monosynaptic Glutamatergic Activation of Locus Coeruleus and Other Lower Brainstem Noradrenergic Neurons by the C1 Cells in Mice
Authors: Holloway Benjamin B. , Stornetta Ruth L. , Bochorishvili Genrieta , Erisir Alev , Viar Kenneth E. , Guyenet Patrice G.
Published: November 2013

The C1 neurons, located in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (VLM), are activated by pain, hypotension, hypoglycemia, hypoxia, and infection, as well as by psychological stress. Prior work has highlighted the ability of these neurons to increase sympathetic tone, hence peripheral catecholamine release, probably via their direct excitatory projections to sympathetic preganglionic neurons. In this study, we use channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) optogenetics to test whether the C1 cells are also capable of broadly activating the brain's noradrenergic system. We selectively expressed ChR2(H134R) in rostral VLM catecholaminergic neurons by injecting Cre-dependent adeno-associated viral vectors into the brain of adult dopamine-β-hydroxylase(DβH)Cre/0mice. Most ChR2-expressing VLM neurons (75%) were immunoreactive for phenylethanolamineN-methyl transferease, thus were C1 cells, and most of the ChR2-positive axonal varicosities were immunoreactive for vesicular glutamate transporter-2 (78%). We produced light microscopic evidence that the axons of rostral VLM (RVLM) catecholaminergic neurons contact locus coeruleus, A1, and A2 noradrenergic neurons, and ultrastructural evidence that these contacts represent asymmetric synapses. Using optogenetics in tissue slices, we show that RVLM catecholaminergic neurons activate the locus coeruleus as well as A1 and A2 noradrenergic neurons monosynaptically by releasing glutamate. In conclusion, activation of RVLM catecholaminergic neurons, predominantly C1 cells, by somatic or psychological stresses has the potential to increase the firing of both peripheral and central noradrenergic neurons.
Vocal Corollary Discharge Communicates Call Duration to Vertebrate Auditory System
Authors: Chagnaud Boris P. , Bass Andrew H.
Published: November 2013

Corollary discharge is essential to an animal's ability to filter self-generated from external stimuli. This includes acoustic communication, although direct demonstration of a corollary discharge that both conveys a vocal motor signal and informs the auditory system about the physical attributes of a self-generated vocalization has remained elusive for vertebrates. Here, we show the underlying synaptic activity of a neuronal vocal corollary discharge pathway in the hindbrain of a highly vocal species of fish. Neurons carrying the vocal corollary discharge are specifically adapted for the transmission of duration information, a predominant acoustic cue. The results reveal that vertebrates, like some insects, have a robust corollary discharge conveying call duration. Along with evidence for the influence of vocal duration on auditory encoding in mammals, these new findings suggest that linking vocal motor and corollary discharge pathways with pattern generating, call duration neurons is a shared network character across the animal kingdom.
Motion-Sensitive Responses in Visual Area V4 in the Absence of Primary Visual Cortex
Authors: Schmid Michael C. , Schmiedt Joscha T. , Peters Andrew J. , Saunders Richard C. , Maier Alexander , Leopold David A.
Published: November 2013

Neurons in cortical ventral-stream area V4 are thought to contribute to important aspects of visual processing by integrating information from primary visual cortex (V1). However, how V4 neurons respond to visual stimulation after V1 injury remains unclear: While electrophysiological investigation of V4 neurons during reversible V1 inactivation suggests that virtually all responses are eliminated (Girard et al., 1991), fMRI in humans and monkeys with permanent lesions shows reliable V1-independent activity (Baseler et al., 1999; Goebel et al., 2001; Schmid et al., 2010). To resolve this apparent discrepancy, we longitudinally assessed neuronal functions of macaque area V4 using chronically implanted electrode arrays before and after creating a permanent aspiration lesion in V1. During the month after lesioning, we observed weak yet significant spiking activity in response to stimuli presented to the lesion-affected part of the visual field. These V1-independent responses showed sensitivity for motion and likely reflect the effect of V1-bypassing geniculate input into extrastriate areas.
Temporally Dissociable Mechanisms of Self-Control: Early Attentional Filtering Versus Late Value Modulation
Authors: Harris Alison , Hare Todd , Rangel Antonio
Published: November 2013

Optimal decision-making often requires exercising self-control. A growing fMRI literature has implicated the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) in successful self-control, but due to the limitations inherent in BOLD measures of brain activity, the neurocomputational role of this region has not been resolved. Here we exploit the high temporal resolution and whole-brain coverage of event-related potentials (ERPs) to test the hypothesis that dlPFC affects dietary self-control through two different mechanisms: attentional filtering and value modulation. Whereas attentional filtering of sensory input should occur early in the decision process, value modulation should occur later on, after the computation of stimulus values begins. Hungry human subjects were asked to make food choices while we measured neural activity using ERP in a natural condition, in which they responded freely and did not exhibit a tendency to regulate their diet, and in a self-control condition, in which they were given a financial incentive to lose weight. We then measured various neural markers associated with the attentional filtering and value modulation mechanisms across the decision period to test for changes in neural activity during the exercise of self-control. Consistent with the hypothesis, we found evidence for top-down attentional filtering early on in the decision period (150–200 ms poststimulus onset) as well as evidence for value modulation later in the process (450–650 ms poststimulus onset). We also found evidence that dlPFC plays a role in the deployment of both mechanisms.
Hyperthyroidism and psychiatric morbidity: evidence from a Danish nationwide register study
Authors: Brandt Frans , Thvilum Marianne , Almind Dorthe , Christensen Kaare , Green Anders , Hegedüs Laszlo , Brix Thomas Heiberg
Published: November 2013

Objective

Thyroid hormones are essential for the normal development of the fetal brain, while hyperthyroidism in adults is associated with mood symptoms and reduced quality of life. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association and temporal relationship between hyperthyroidism and psychiatric morbidity.

Design

Register-based nationwide cohort study.

Method

Data on hyperthyroidism and psychiatric morbidity were obtained by record linkage of the Danish National Patient Registry and the Danish National Prescription Registry. A total of 2631 hyperthyroid individuals were identified and matched 1:4 with non-hyperthyroid controls and followed for a mean duration of 6 years (range 0–13). Logistic and Cox regression models were used to assess the risk of psychiatric morbidity before and after the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism respectively.

Results

Before the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, such individuals had an increased risk of being hospitalized with psychiatric diagnoses (odds ratio (OR): 1.33; 95% CI: 0.98–1.80) and an increased risk of being treated with antipsychotics (OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.00–1.38), antidepressants (OR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.01–1.27), or anxiolytics (OR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.16–1.42). After the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, there was a higher risk of being hospitalized with psychiatric diagnoses (hazard ratio (HR): 1.51; 95% CI: 1.11–2.05) and an increased risk of being treated with antipsychotics (HR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.20–1.79), antidepressants (HR: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.36–1.74), or anxiolytics (HR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.27–1.69).

Conclusions

Hyperthyroid individuals have an increased risk of being hospitalized with psychiatric diagnoses and being treated with antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anxiolytics, both before and after the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism.
Actions of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on stem/progenitor cells during development and disease
Authors: Kopras Elizabeth , Potluri Veena , Bermudez Mei-Ling , Williams Karin , Belcher Scott , Kasper Susan
Published: November 2013

Development and fate of the stem cell are regulated by extrinsic signals from the environment. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals which perturb hormonal signaling in utero and during early childhood may cause deregulation of multiple developmental processes, ranging from breakdown of stem cell niche architecture, developmental reprograming and altered stem cell fate to impaired organ and gonad development and sexual differentiation. Therefore, study of the environmental effects on stem cell integrity and normal development is a new and emerging focus for developmental biologists and cell toxicologists. When combined with new human and mouse stem cell-based models, stem cell differentiation dynamics can be studied in more biologically relevant ways. In this study, we review the current status of our understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which endocrine disruptors alter embryonic stem cell and adult stem/progenitor cell fate, organ development, cancer stem cell activity, and tumorigenesis.
Insulin signaling, resistance, and metabolic syndrome: insights from mouse models into disease mechanisms
Authors: Guo Shaodong
Published: November 2013

Insulin resistance is a major underlying mechanism responsible for the ‘metabolic syndrome’, which is also known as insulin resistance syndrome. The incidence of metabolic syndrome is increasing at an alarming rate, becoming a major public and clinical problem worldwide. Metabolic syndrome is represented by a group of interrelated disorders, including obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. It is also a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease and increased morbidity and mortality. Animal studies have demonstrated that insulin and its signaling cascade normally control cell growth, metabolism, and survival through the activation of MAPKs and activation of phosphatidylinositide-3-kinase (PI3K), in which the activation of PI3K associated with insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) and IRS2 and subsequent Akt→Foxo1 phosphorylation cascade has a central role in the control of nutrient homeostasis and organ survival. The inactivation of Akt and activation of Foxo1, through the suppression IRS1 and IRS2 in different organs following hyperinsulinemia, metabolic inflammation, and overnutrition, may act as the underlying mechanisms for metabolic syndrome in humans. Targeting the IRS→Akt→Foxo1 signaling cascade will probably provide a strategy for therapeutic intervention in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and its complications. This review discusses the basis of insulin signaling, insulin resistance in different mouse models, and how a deficiency of insulin signaling components in different organs contributes to the features of metabolic syndrome. Emphasis is placed on the role of IRS1, IRS2, and associated signaling pathways that are coupled to Akt and the forkhead/winged helix transcription factor Foxo1.
Effect of Genetic Variation in a Drosophila Model of Diabetes-Associated Misfolded Human Proinsulin
Authors: He Bin Z , Ludwig Michael Z , Dickerson Desiree A , Barse Levi , Arun Bharath , Vilhjálmsson Bjarni J , Jiang Pengyao , Park Soo-Young , Tamarina Natalia A , Selleck Scott B , Wittkopp Patricia J , Bell Graeme I , Kreitman Martin
Published: November 2013

The identification and validation of gene–gene interactions is a major challenge in human studies. Here, we explore an approach for studying epistasis in humans using a Drosophila melanogaster model of neonatal diabetes mellitus. Expression of the mutant preproinsulin (hINSC96Y) in the eye imaginal disc mimics the human disease: it activates conserved stress-response pathways and leads to cell death (reduction in eye area). Dominant-acting variants in wild-derived inbred lines from the Drosophila Genetics Reference Panel produce a continuous, highly heritable distribution of eye-degeneration phenotypes in a hINSC96Y background. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 154 sequenced lines identified a sharp peak on chromosome 3L, which mapped to a 400-bp linkage block within an intron of the gene sulfateless (sfl). RNAi knockdown of sfl enhanced the eye-degeneration phenotype in a mutant-hINS-dependent manner. RNAi against two additional genes in the heparan sulfate (HS) biosynthetic pathway (ttv and botv), in which sfl acts, also modified the eye phenotype in a hINSC96Y-dependent manner, strongly suggesting a novel link between HS-modified proteins and cellular responses to misfolded proteins. Finally, we evaluated allele-specific expression difference between the two major sfl-intronic haplotypes in heterozygtes. The results showed significant heterogeneity in marker-associated gene expression, thereby leaving the causal mutation(s) and its mechanism unidentified. In conclusion, the ability to create a model of human genetic disease, map a QTL by GWAS to a specific gene, and validate its contribution to disease with available genetic resources and the potential to experimentally link the variant to a molecular mechanism demonstrate the many advantages Drosophila holds in determining the genetic underpinnings of human disease.
Institutions, democracy and growth in the very long run
Authors: Yanovskiy Konstantin , Shulgin Sergey
Published: November 2013

We tested the hypothesis of the political basis for economic rights and constructed our own variables of political regimes’ classification for the years 1820–2000. We found significant positive interdependencies between democracy indicators and economic growth. The protection of private property rights requires, first and foremost, due guarantees for personal immunity. Discretionary arrests and property seizures undermine any formal guarantees of private property, low taxation benefits, etc. Personal immunity should be defended even for “unpleasant” persons or for the possible political opponents of the country’s ruler.
Precisão da tira reagente e do exame microscópico da urina no diagnóstico de infecções do trato urinário em porcas
Authors: Mazutti Kelly , Locatelli-Dittrich Rosângela , Lunardon Isabella , Kuchiishi Suzana S. , Lara Anne C. de , Zotti Everson , Alberton Geraldo C.
Published: November 2013

O diagnóstico de infecção do trato urinário (ITU) em porcas geralmente é feito com o auxílio de tiras reagentes, por ser um método rápido, prático e passível de ser realizado na própria granja. O exame microscópico da urina raramente é utilizado em granjas por ser uma técnica mais demorada e trabalhosa. No entanto, não existem estudos sobre a precisão destas duas técnicas no diagnóstico de ITU nesta espécie. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a precisão da tira reagente e do exame microscópico da urina no diagnóstico de ITU em porcas, comparando-os com o exame bacteriológico da urina. Para selecionar as porcas que iriam compor o estudo foi realizado um exame químico prévio com tira reagente, do qual foram selecionadas 139 porcas, 66 positivas para nitrito na tira reagente e 73 negativas. No dia seguinte foi realizada uma nova coleta de urina destas 139 porcas para realização da urinálise completa, que incluiu os exames físico, químico, microscópico e microbiológico destas amostras de urina. Os resultados demonstraram que a prova de nitrito da tira reagente apresentou 100% de especificidade e 93% de sensibilidade. A especificidade do exame microscópico para bacteriúria foi de 82% e a sensibilidade de 100%. O diagnóstico de ITU com o uso de tiras reagentes e/ou com exame microscópico da urina é confiável, quando comparado com o exame bacteriológico da urina, o que torna possível o diagnóstico rápido de ITU em porcas na granja.
O plano de mobilidade urbana e o futuro das cidades
Authors: Rubim Barbara , Leitão Sérgio
Published: November 2013

O artigo traça um breve histórico sobre a evolução dos problemas da mobilidade, dos cavalos aos carros, e mostra que hoje, tal como há cem anos, a priorização do transporte individual levou a problemas sociais, ambientais e de saúde pública. Em seguida, analisa a Política Nacional de Mobilidade Urbana, ressaltando suas inovações e os pontos de atenção que podem prejudicar sua efetividade. Por fim, destaca a necessidade de se melhorar o transporte coletivo e não motorizado e, concomitantemente, desestimular o uso do automóvel, como formas de se devolver aos cidadãos o direito à cidade e aos serviços essenciais que ela guarda.
O dualismo de Descartes como princípio de sua Filosofia Natural
Authors: Ramozzi-Chiarottino Zelia , Freire José-Jozefran
Published: November 2013

Procuraremos mostrar que o imaginário ocidental a respeito da filosofia cartesiana como um "dualismo" não superado e responsável pela ruptura do homem com cultura e natureza colide com as reais posições do filósofo. Na aurora da filosofia moderna, com Descartes, um dualismo ainda metafísico entre "dois modos da mesma substância" transforma-se num dualismo gnoseológico entre, de um lado, um sujeito do conhecimento científico (sujeito epistêmico), e, de outro, sistemas a serem explicados: corpo humano e natureza, ou seja, sistemas de conceitos bioquímicos e físicos. Assim, a filosofia de Descartes reúne em si o conteúdo filosófico de toda investigação anterior a ela, convertendo-se no centro do qual se irradiam os múltiplos caminhos e tendências da crítica do conhecimento e da filosofia das ciências.
Intenções reprodutivas de mulheres que vivenciam regime de alta fecundidade em um grande centro urbano
Authors: Soares Vânia Muniz Néquer , Schor Néia , Morell Maria Graciela Gonzalez de , Souza Kleyde Ventura de , Diniz Simone Carmem Grilo
Published: November 2013

Neste estudo quantitativo e de base populacional objetivou-se identificar as intenções reprodutivas de mulheres com cinco ou mais filhos, residentes em Curitiba, Paraná. Foram entrevistadas 441 mulheres em seus domicílios entre os anos de 2006 a 2008. Calcularam-se frequências, e o teste t de Student e o coeficiente de Spearman para algumas variáveis. Para análise das perguntas abertas utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo e se elaboraram tabelas com as categorias e as respectivas frequências. O estudo revelou que para 51% das mulheres o número ideal de filhos seria dois; 10% tiveram o número de filhos que desejavam. Em 113 casos (40,4%) o marido preferia ter um número maior de filhos do que as mulheres. Identificaram-se dificuldades na definição e na conquista da fecundidade desejada, falhas na assistência à saúde reprodutiva e desigualdades sociais e de gênero. O monitoramento pelos gestores de saúde dos diferenciais de fecundidade é necessário para o alcance da justiça social e a garantia dos direitos humanos, sexuais e reprodutivos, no Brasil.
A new species of Omphale Haliday 1833 (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) from Brazil, parasitic on gall-midges on Croton floribundus Spreng (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Gomes Gabriela Cristina , Franco Maíce Siqueira , Hansson Christer
Published: November 2013

A tritrophic relationship involving the plant Croton floribundusSpreng (Euphorbiaceae), an unidentified gall-midge belonging to eitherClinodiplosis Kieffer 1895 or Alycaulus Rübsaamen 1916 (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), and a new species of parasitic wasp belonging toOmphale Haliday 1833 (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) is described. The gall andOmphale japii sp. nov., are described and illustrated. This is the third record ofOmphale from Brazil and the new species is compared to otherOmphale species from the Neotropical region.
Turtle ectoparasites from the Pacific coastal region of Colombia
Authors: Garcés-Restrepo Mario Fernando , Giraldo Alan , Carr John L. , Brown Lisa D.
Published: November 2013

This study provides an update on the ectoparasites (ticks and leeches) associated with Rhinoclemmys annulata and provides new accounts on the ectoparasites associated with R. nasuta, R. melanosterna andKinosternon leucostomum from the Pacific coast of Colombia. The presence ofAmblyomma sabanerae on R. nasuta and R. melanosterna provided two new host records for the tick species. Also, the documentation ofA. sabanerae from the Department of Valle del Cauca represents a new department record for the species in Colombia. Placobdella ringueleti was identified fromR. nasuta and K. leucostomum, which represents a new host record for the leech species, as well as a significant extension of the known range.
Distribution and biological aspects of the introduced speciesMoina macrocopa (Straus, 1820) (Crustacea, Cladocera) in the semi-arid central region of Argentina
Authors: Vignatti Alicia María , Cabrera Gabriela Cecilia , Echaniz Santiago Andrés
Published: November 2013

Moina macrocopa is common in eutrophic water bodies. Two subspecies have been described: M. macrocopa macrocopa (Straus, 1820), whose original distribution was restricted to the Old World, and M. macrocopa americanaGoulden, 1968, recorded only in North America. In 1994, the species was found in Bolivia, and in 1997 it was found in the northeast of Argentina. As the specimens belonged to M. macrocopa macrocopa in both cases, the authors suggested that it may have been introduced from the Old World by anthropogenic means. The aim of this study was to assess the distribution of M. macrocopa in La Pampa (Argentina), and provide information on its population characteristics under natural conditions. The species was recorded in six out of more than 100 water bodies surveyed; the specimens belong to M. macrocopa macrocopa. Although this species is not considered halophilic, the water bodies where it was found present high salinity (5.7 to 21.8 g.L–1). All are shallow, temporary and hypertrophic due to the agricultural activities carried out in their basins. Densities were between 1 and 312.6 ind.L–1. Size varied between 0.6 and 1.8 mm and some specimens were larger than those of other places. The parthenogenetic fraction predominated and the number of eggs ranged between 2 and 23. No correlations were found between density, size, or number of eggs and the environmental parameters studied. The presence of M. macrocopa in Pampean lakes could be due to the introduction of fish from hatcheries in the province of Buenos Aires, where it is used as food. Considering that the invasive character ofM. macrocopa has been recognized and that this study found that it is tolerant to a wide range of environmental conditions, attention should be paid to a possible displacement of its native congeneric species, typical of saline and temporary water bodies in central Argentina.
Ecology and diversity of a lizard community in the semiarid region of Brazil
Authors: Andrade Maria Jaqueline Monte de , Sales Raul Fernandes Dantas , Freire Eliza Maria Xavier
Published: November 2013

Composition, species diversity and resource usage in terms of space and time were evaluated for the lizard community of the Ecological Station of the Seridó (ESEC Seridó), Rio Grande do Norte. An observation area of 150 m × 150 m (2.25 ha) was delimited and surveyed monthly in alternate turns (morning, afternoon and night) for three consecutive days from April to October 2011, covering dry and rainy seasons. Fourteen species belonging to eight families were recorded, being Tropidurus semitaeniatus the most abundant. Seasonality influenced species richness and abundance. Regarding habitat usage, Lygodactylus klugei was the most generalist species, whilePhyllopezus periosus, P. pollicaris and T. semitaeniatus were specialists, showing affinity for rocky formations. About microhabitat usage, the most generalist species was T. hispidus and the most specialized wasL. klugei . Ten of the recorded species have diurnal habits and four are nocturnal. The space and time usage profiles of the dominant species corroborated data obtained in previous autoecological studies conducted in the same area and suggest a pattern of resource usage by these species in the ESEC Seridó.
Flutuações mensais na abundância dos Charadriidae e Scolopacidae da praia da Ilha Comprida, São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Barbieri Edison , Delchiaro Roberta Tonolli Chiavone , Branco Joaquim Olinto
Published: November 2013

Foram registradas as freqüências de ocorrências e as flutuações mensais das famílias Charadriidae e Scolopacidae ao longo de um transecto de 70 km de praia entre o Boqueirão Sul e o Boqueirão Norte na Ilha Comprida, estado de São Paulo, durante o período de um ano (Janeiro a dezembro de 2010). Um total de 12.153 indivíduos de aves foram contados com a maior abundância ocorreu entre outubro e abril e a mais baixa entre maio a setembro. Das 20 espécies registradas as mais abundantes foram Charadrius semipalmatus, Charadrius colaris, Vanellus chilensis e Tringa flavipes. As menos abundantes foram Tryngites subruficolis, Limosa haemastica,Tringa melanoleuca e Actitis macularia. Dezesseis espécies eram migrantes do Hemisfério Norte, duas migrantes do Hemisfério Sul, e duas residentes. Sete espécies foram registradas regularmente, cinco esporadicamente e oito foram ocasionais. Quatro espécies neárticas foram registradas em Junho e julho, provavelmente indicando a presença de indivíduos imaturos não reprodutores. O número de espécies e o número de indivíduos provavelmente flutuaram devido a migração ou movimentos entre as praias vizinhas. A praia da Ilha Comprida é um importante sítio de parada durante a migração para muitas aves de praia na costa Sul do estado de São Paulo. Por esse motivo, devem ser feitos esforços de preservação, especialmente tendo em conta a crescente pressão de desenvolvimento que ameaça essa região.
Problemática no uso da terra e no manejo agrícola da bataticultura em Bueno Brandão, MG
Authors: Boulomytis Vassiliki Terezinha Galvão , Bresaola Junior Ruben
Published: November 2013

A batata é um alimento que possui elevado valor biológico e importância social significativa no combate à fome. O seu manejo usa tradicionalmente a mecanização agrícola antes e durante o cultivo, água abundante em áreas bem drenadas e agroquímicos para a fertilização do solo e combate às pragas. Por muitas décadas o plantio de batatas tem se destacado como uma das atividades sócio-econômicas mais importantes do município de Bueno Brandão, sul do estado de Minas Gerais. Neste trabalho, foi realizado o monitoramento das áreas destinadas à bataticultura na área drenada pela sub-bacia do Rio das Antas, a fim de obter um pré-diagnóstico do manejo agrícola adotado na região e dos impactos decorrentes do uso intensivo de produtos agroquímicos, da proximidade do plantio aos cursos d'água e da mecanização agrícola em áreas com declividades acentuadas. Foi verificada a predominância do sistema semi-mecanizado, que desconsidera o relevo acidentado. Averiguou-se também que na maioria dos casos a análise do solo ou a consultoria de agrônomos deixam de ser realizadas como subsídio ao tratamento do solo e do plantio. Portanto, concluiu-se que o sistema de produção utilizado não está em concordância com a fragilidade ambiental da região, que é montanhosa e repleta de cursos d'água, tornando-a muito susceptível à erosão e contaminação hídrica.
Avaliação dos critérios morfodinâmicos para a fase de diagnóstico do Projeto Orla: um estudo de caso em praias arenosas com desembocaduras fluviais
Authors: Rocha Thaís Baptista da , Fernandez Guilherme Borges , Nascimento Lídice Cabral
Published: November 2013

O presente trabalho buscou analisar parte dos critérios de diagnóstico do Projeto de Gestão Integrada da Orla Marítima (Projeto Orla) do Ministério do Meio Ambiente (2002), especificamente considerando a morfodinâmica e a fisiografia, como justificativa para a uma análise voltada para a vulnerabilidade física. Logo, buscou-se a realização deste trabalho na orla próximo à foz do rio Paraíba do Sul, cuja área é reconhecida pela intensa instabilidade morfológica e fases severas de erosão costeira. Foi averiguada a metodologia de delimitação da orla propriamente dita, o estabelecimento de áreas restritivas ou de não-edificação e a caracterização de tipologias de orla, associada ao estabelecimento de Unidades de Paisagem. A aplicação prática de tais critérios indicou algumas fragilidades e a necessidade de adaptações às características geomorfológicas da orla. Desta forma, foram sintetizadas sugestões de adaptação e complementação, como por exemplo, a aplicação de Geoindicadores para avaliação do comportamento morfodinâmico da orla.
Permafrost degradation stimulates carbon loss from experimentally warmed tundra
Authors: Natali Susan M. , Schuur Edward A. G. , Webb Elizabeth E. , Pries Caitlin E. Hicks , Crummer Kathryn G.
Published: November 2013

A large pool of organic carbon (C) has been accumulating in the Arctic for thousands of years because cold and waterlogged conditions have protected soil organic material from microbial decomposition. As the climate warms this vast and frozen C pool is at risk of being thawed, decomposed, and released to the atmosphere as greenhouse gasses. At the same time, some C losses may be offset by warming‐mediated increases in plant productivity. Plant and microbial responses to warming ultimately determine net C exchange from ecosystems, but the timing and magnitude of these responses remain uncertain. Here we show that experimental warming and permafrost (ground that remains below 0°C for two or more consecutive years) degradation led to a two‐fold increase in net ecosystem C uptake during the growing season. However, warming also enhanced winter respiration, which entirely offset growing‐season C gains. Winter C losses may be even higher in response to actual climate warming than to our experimental manipulations, and, in that scenario, could be expected to more than double overall net C losses from tundra to the atmosphere. Our results highlight the importance of winter processes in determining whether tundra acts as a C source or sink, and demonstrate the potential magnitude of C release from the permafrost zone that might be expected in a warmer climate.
Factors Associated with Influenza Vaccination Decisions among Patients with Mental Illness
Authors: Lorenz Raymond A. , Norris Meghan M. , Norton Leah C. , Westrick Salisa C.
Published: November 2013

Objective:

To determine influenza (flu) vaccination status among the mentally ill population and identify factors associated with vaccination status.

Method:

A non-interventional, cross-sectional study was conducted. A self-administered survey to investigate the vaccination status and perceptions related to flu vaccine was administered between October 2011-January 2012 in an outpatient psychiatry clinic that served the indigent, severely mentally ill population of Alabama. All statistical analyses were based upon a significance level of 0.05.

Results:

Of the 736 patients invited, 302 participated (41%). Only 28.4% were vaccinated in 2010–2011 and 24.2% had been vaccinated at the time of the survey for 2011–2012. Respondents who had private health insurance, received a recommendation from healthcare providers, and who perceived a greater degree of vaccine effectiveness were more likely to obtain flu vaccination while respondents who had education beyond high school and were more in agreement that they can get the flu from the vaccine were less likely to obtain flu vaccination. All of the above factors accounted for 26.7% of vaccination decisions.

Conclusions:

The flu vaccination rate among this study's population was lower than the general population. Interventions targeting the above factors should help increase vaccination rates among the mentally ill population.
Effect of Depression-Related Somatic Pain on Treatment Satisfaction and Daily Living Functions
Authors: Kawamura Aoi , Shimodera Shinji , Furukawa Toshi A. , Kumagai Naoko , Nishida Atsushi , Mizuno Masafumi , Inoue Shimpei
Published: November 2013

Objective:

Recent studies suggest that depression is associated with somatic pain. Despite growing research interest in the topic, the effects of depression-related somatic pain remain unclear. The present study sought to investigate the relationships between depression-related somatic pain, treatment satisfaction, and functions of daily living, and to compare them with the relationships between these factors and mental health measures.

Method:

We administered an Internet-based survey to 663 patients with depression in Japan, including questions about pain symptoms, mental health, functions of daily living, and dissatisfaction with depression treatment. The SF-8 questionnaire was used to assess functions of daily living. We conducted a multiple linear regression analysis to examine the associations between depression-related somatic pain, functions of daily living and treatment satisfaction, and between mental health measures, somatic pain and functions of daily living.

Results:

An increase per unit in the number of pain symptoms was associated with a 1.04-unit decrease in physical functioning score ( P < 0.001), a 0.67-unit decrease in the role functioning-physical score ( P < 0.001), and a 0.53-unit decrease in role functioning-emotional score ( P = 0.0010). Meanwhile, we found no significant association between the number of pain symptoms and patients' satisfaction with treatment, and no significant association between the number of pain symptoms and social functioning.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that even when patients report satisfaction with their treatment, they may be suffering from reduced physical functioning and role functioning. These impairments may escape clinical recognition when clinicians or patients fail to discuss pain symptoms.
A tour through δ-invariants: From Nash’s embedding theorem to ideal immersions, best ways of living and beyond
Authors: Chen Bang-Yen
Published: November 2013

First I will explain my motivation to introduce the ?-invariants for
Riemannian manifolds. I will also recall the notions of ideal immersions and
best ways of living. Then I will present a few of the many applications of
?-invariants in several areas in mathematics. Finally, I will present two
optimal inequalities involving ?-invariants for Lagrangian submanifolds
obtained very recently in joint papers with F. Dillen, J. Van der Veken and
L. Vrancken.
Magnetic curves in a Euclidean space: One example, several approaches
Authors: Munteanu Marian
Published: November 2013

This is a short review of different approaches in the study of magnetic
curves for a certain magnetic field and on the fixed energy level. We
emphasize them in the case when the magnetic trajectory corresponds to a
Killing vector field associated to a screw motion in the Euclidean 3-space.
A new model of nonlocal modified gravity
Authors: Dimitrijevic Ivan , Dragovich Branko , Grujic Jelena , Rakic Zoran
Published: November 2013

We consider a new modified gravity model with nonlocal term of the form
R?1F(?)R. This kind of nonlocality is motivated by investigation of
applicability of a few unusual ansatze to obtain some exact cosmological
solutions. In particular, we find attractive and useful quadratic ansatz ?R =
qR2.
On Ricci type identities in manifolds with non-symmetric affine connection
Authors: Mincic Svetislav
Published: November 2013

In [18], using polylinear mappings, we obtained several curvature tensors in
the space LN with non-symmetric affine connection ?. By the same method, we
here examine Ricci type identities.
Effective Use of Teaching and Learning Resources
Authors: Bušljeta Rona
Published: November 2013

In view of the fact that students are surrounded by visual representations and audio-visual and auditory materials on a daily basis, owing in particular to media such as television and the internet, it is difficult to imagine today's educational process without the use of various teaching and learning resources. The purpose and role of teaching and learning resources doesn't only consist of making the educational process more attractive and interesting, but also of encouraging active learning, the development of different skills and the adoption of desirable values and attitudes in students. In order to achieve the aforementioned goals, it is extremely important to clearly define the conditions and methods of utilising teaching and learning resources in the teaching and learning process. The aim of this study was to, first and foremost, define and determine the basic stages of utilising teaching and learning resources, assuming that the aforementioned affected and stipulated the achievement of their purposes, roles and tasks in the teaching and learning process.
Festival Tourism of Folk Group Dancers from Selected Countries of the World
Authors: Bochenek Marcin
Published: November 2013

Introduction. Artistic trips and tourism are inseparable parts of the activity of folk groups associated in CIOFF® . Folk festivals organised around the world give folk groups a chance to learn about traditions and customs and to come into close contact with indigenous people. The correlation between tourism and activity of folk groups is visible mainly with regard to selected forms of cognitive tourism. The aim of the work was to present the destinations and frequency of artistic trips of CIOFF® folk groups from selected countries of the world. Trips to dance festivals abroad and their connection with heritage tourism were analysed. Material and methods. The study with the use of a diagnostic poll including a questionnaire, interview and document analysis was carried out in July and August 2010. 243 dancers and 16 instructorschoreographers of dance groups from 12 randomly selected countries of the world participated in the study. Results and

conclusions. Folk festivals under the auspices of CIOFF® are organised on all the continents. Artistic trips of folk groups from 12 selected countries were most frequently organised on the “old continent”. A small percentage of dancers from European countries had an opportunity to participate in festivals outside Europe. Artistic trips of the groups were connected with heritage tourism, while travelling became one of the reasons for participating in folk dance classes.
The Role of Parents in Talented Youth Sport. Does Context Matter?
Authors: Domingues Márcio , Gonçalves Carlos E.
Published: November 2013

Introduction. The present study investigates the characteristics of the environmental factors that influence the structure of sport amongst young people; alongside this, the study also attempts to describe the influential role of parents in the development of sporting talent; finally, the study emphasizes the significance of parents' educational beliefs concerning the acquisition of life-long social skills through participation in sport in demanding competitive environments. Material and

methods. 8 semi-structured interviews and 3 unstructured interviews were conducted among young people participating in a semi-professional club at national competitive level. A field diary was also collected. Results. Qualitative analysis revealed that: a) structural and organizational aspects, as well as the overall climate of the club, shape the behavior of young people in relation to social goals; b) parents play an important role as socializers in competitive environments; c) parents display a solid awareness of their own influence on the attitudes and behavior of young people. Conclusions. The findings highlight the important role of parents in sport participation in highly competitive environments. The study also shows contextual factors as predictors of the degree of youngsters' social and personal variables in performance levels. Implications for parental involvement in youth sport as well as future research directions are further discussed.
The Vocational Skills of Graduates with a Degree in Tourism and Recreation in the Context of the National Qualifications Framework
Authors: Skiert Małgorzata , Buchta Krystyna
Published: November 2013

Introduction. The paper discusses the issue of vocational skills amongst students of university studies in tourism and recreation at the Josef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport in Biała Podlaska. The objective of the research, whose results are presented in the current paper, was to diagnose the results of studies at undergraduate and postgraduate level in relation to their knowledge, skills and social competencies. Material and methods. Research was carried out in June 2012 by means of a diagnostic poll using the random survey technique. The survey encompassed students graduating from undergraduate and graduate programmes (N=199). Results. Analyses indicated that students of both programmes evaluate their knowledge and skills acquired in the course of studies as low. On the other hand, students evaluated their social competencies, in particular those connected with the university's profile, as high. According to respondents' declarations, the level of knowledge, skills and other competencies acquired in the course of undergraduate and graduate studies does not fully meet respondents' requirements.
Never-ending Modi
Authors: Bobbio Tommaso
Published: November 2013

This article proposes a non conventional analysis of the most significant phenomenon that has marked Indian political life in the past decade. The electoral competition for the 2014 general election is played around two main elements, namely, the selection of convincing prime ministerial candidates and the definition of electoral coalitions. In this perspective, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the main party of the right-wing coalition (National Democratic Alliance, NDA), has taken a decisive step by selecting Narendra Modi as its front man for the electoral campaign, and thus the “natural” candidate for the post of prime minister in case of success. A highly controversial figure, Modi polarized the public debate for over a decade: he is either considered a fascist politician or he is praised for the high economic growth rates achieved by the state under his government. This article proposes to move beyond such a dichotomy to highlight Modi's complexity and success in promoting a political culture that merged religious traditionalism and neoliberal economic arguments. Whether his coalition will win the election or not, and whether he will become the next prime minister or not, is greatly significant to the future of India and to the possibility of the many contradictions and diversities that underpin the Indian democracy being conciliated.
Comparison of Antioxidant Properties of Refined and Whole Wheat Flour and Bread
Authors: Yu Lilei , Nanguet Anne-Laure , Beta Trust
Published: November 2013

Antioxidant properties of refined and whole wheat flour and their resultant bread were investigated to document the effects of baking. Total phenolic content (TPC), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) were employed to determine the content of ethanol extractable phenolic compounds. HPLC was used to detect the presence of phenolic acids prior to their confirmation using LC-MS/MS. Whole wheat flour showed significantly higher antioxidant activity than refined flour (p < 0.05). There was a significant effect of the bread-making process with the TPC of whole wheat bread (1.50–1.65 mg/g) and white bread (0.79–1.03 mg/g) showing a respective reduction of 28% and 33% of the levels found in whole wheat and refined flour. Similarly, baking decreased DPPH radical scavenging capacity by 32% and 30%. ORAC values, however, indicated that baking increased the antioxidant activities of whole wheat and refined flour by 1.8 and 2.9 times, respectively. HPLC analysis showed an increase of 18% to 35% in ferulic acid after baking to obtain whole and refined wheat bread containing 330.1 and 25.3 µg/g (average), respectively. Whole wheat flour and bread were superior to refined flour and bread in in vitro antioxidant properties.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oils from Cinnamodendron dinisii Schwacke and Siparuna guianensis Aublet
Authors: Andrade Milene , Das Graças Cardoso Maria , De Andrade Juliana , Silva Lucilene , Teixeira Maria , Valério Resende Juliana , Da Silva Figueiredo Ana , Barroso José
Published: November 2013

The objectives of this study were to chemically characterize and evaluate the antioxidant activity of essential oils Cinnamodendron dinisii Schwacke (pepper) and Siparuna guianensis Aublet (negramina). The essential oil was isolated by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger modified apparatus, and the identification and quantification of constituents, through GC/MS and GC-FID analysis. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using β-carotene/linoleic acid system and the DPPH radical sequestering method. In chromatographic analysis, the majority constituents found in the essential oil of C. dinisii were bicyclic monoterpenes, α-pinene (35.41%), β-pinene (17.81%), sabinene (12.01%) and sesquiterpene bicyclogermacrene (7.59%). In the essential oil of the fresh leaves of Siparuna guianensis Aublet, acyclic monoterpene, β-myrcene (13.14%), and sesquiterpenes, germacrene-D (8.68%) and bicyclogermacrene (16.71%) were identified. The antioxidant activity was low by the β-carotene/linoleic acid test and was not evidenced by the DPPH test, for both oils evaluated.
Reorganization and Stability for Motor and Language Areas Using Cortical Stimulation: Case Example and Review of the Literature
Authors: Serafini Sandra , Komisarow Jordan , Gallentine William , Mikati Mohamad , Bonner Melanie , Kranz Peter , Haglund Michael , Grant Gerald
Published: November 2013

The cerebral organization of language in epilepsy patients has been studied with invasive procedures such as Wada testing and electrical cortical stimulation mapping and more recently with noninvasive neuroimaging techniques, such as functional MRI. In the setting of a chronic seizure disorder, clinical variables have been shown to contribute to cerebral language reorganization underscoring the need for language lateralization and localization procedures. We present a 14-year-old pediatric patient with a refractory epilepsy disorder who underwent two neurosurgical resections of a left frontal epileptic focus separated by a year. He was mapped extraoperatively through a subdural grid using cortical stimulation to preserve motor and language functions. The clinical history and extensive workup prior to surgery is discussed as well as the opportunity to compare the cortical maps for language, motor, and sensory function before each resection. Reorganization in cortical tongue sensory areas was seen concomitant with a new zone of ictal and interictal activity in the previous tongue sensory area. Detailed neuropsychological data is presented before and after any surgical intervention to hypothesize about the extent of reorganization between epochs. We conclude that intrahemispheric cortical plasticity does occur following frontal lobe resective surgery in a teenager with medically refractory seizures.
Effects of Nanoscaled Tin-Doped Indium Oxide on Liquid Crystals against Electrostatic Discharge
Authors: Liang Bau-Jy , Liu Don-Gey , Shie Wun-Yi , Tsai Wei-Lung , Hsu Pei-Fung , Louh Rong-Fuh
Published: November 2013

In our studies, it was confirmed that the cause of image sticking on liquid crystal (LC) cells is based on attacks of electrostatic discharge (ESD), which can be greatly relieved by doping with a small amount of tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) nanoparticles. Our proposed remedy allows the residual time of image sticking to be significantly reduced by more than an order and may protect the LC displays against any adverse ESD conditions, thus enhancing the overall display quality and reliability. In this study, conventional voltage-transmittance (V-T) characterization, voltage holding ratio (VHR) measurement, and ESD testing were employed to investigate the properties of the ITO-doped LCs. Based on our low voltage measurement results, it is interesting to find that ITO nanoparticles do not evidently alter the intrinsic properties of the LC. Namely, ITO additive initiates an early breakdown of the doped LC samples exposed to high electric fields. A model is proposed in this paper to depict the possible role of ITO particles applied in LCs.