bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anterior portion of the cingulate gyrus: A novel location for transient global amnesia?
Authors: Menezes Renata Barbosa , Cavalcante Edla Renata Cunha , Maia Fernanda Martins , Frota Norberto Anizio
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Transient global amnesia (TGA) is characterized by abrupt transient loss of anterograde memory, lasting up to 24 hours, and no other focal neurological signs. We report the case of a right-handed 71-year-old female patient who presented temporal-spatial disorientation 5 minutes after ingestion of 1000 ml of iodinated contrast. The patient had mild temporal-spatial disorientation, with significant deficit in anterograde memory. After 12 hours under observation, the patient progressed to gradual improvement and was discharged. A reevaluation after 15 days showed normal cortical functions, score on mini-mental state exam of 30, and unaffected working and recall memory. MRI performed 48 hours after the event showed hypersignal in the diffusion sequence in the anterior portion of the cingulate gyrus, with hypointense signal in MAP/ADC, confirming a finding consistent with TGA. No previous reports in the literature have described the location affected in this patient, rendering it a novel site consistent with this diagnosis.
Instruments for assessing pain in persons with severe dementia
Authors: Carezzato Natália Lindemann , Valera Gabriela Gallego , Vale Francisco Assis Carvalho , Hortense Priscilla
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Through an integrative literature review involving the CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, LILACS, PsycINFO, PubMed databases, tools available in the literature for assessing pain in individuals with severe dementia were identified along with versions validated for use in Brazil. We found 1501 relevant articles which, after selection of abstracts and full reading, yielded a final sample of 33 articles. The analysis enabled the identification of 12 instruments: ABBEY PAIN SCALE; ADD; CNPI; CPAT; DOLOPLUS-2; MOBID and MOBID-2; MPS; NOPPAIN; PACSLAC; PADE; PAINAD and PAINE. Despite the wide variety of tools for assessing pain in individuals with severe dementia worldwide, it was observed that only four are available in Portuguese, of which two are culturally adapted for Brazilian Portuguese (NOPPAIN and PACSLAC) and two validated for Portuguese of Portugal (DOLOPLUS and PAINAD), pointing to the need for further validation of instruments for use in Brazil.
Computerized Neurocognitive Test (CNT) in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Oliveira Maira Okada de , Brucki Sonia Maria Dozzi
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Currently, computerized batteries are of great value in detecting cognitive impairment. This aim of this review was to compare the computerized neurocognitive batteries used in most studies with cognitive decline over the last 10 years. Using the search words computerized cognitive assessment with: dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer's disease, the CogState, CNS Vital Sings, COGDRAS and Mindstreams batteries were retrieved.
The association between educational level and dementia in rural Tanzania
Authors: Paddick Stella-Maria , Longdon Anna , Gray William K. , Dotchin Catherine , Kisoli Aloyce , Chaote Paul , Walker Richard
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT The majority of people with dementia worldwide live in developing countries. Studies from the developed world have reported an association between lower educational attainment and dementia, but there are few data from the developing world where literacy and educational levels are frequently much lower. In this study we assessed the association between education and dementia prevalence in a rural Tanzanian setting. Methods: In phase I, 1198 individuals aged 70 and over were assessed using the Community Screening Instrument for Dementia (CSI-D). In phase Ii a stratified sample of those seen in phase I were fully assessed and a clinical diagnosis based on DSM-IV criteria was made where appropriate. Information regarding literacy, highest attained educational level and occupation were also collected. Results: The median subject cognitive score on the CSI-D was 25.7 (IQR 22.7 to 28.0) for females and 27.7 (IQR 25.7 to 29.4) for males. This difference was significant (U=117770.0, z= -9.880, p<0.001). In both males and females a lower CSI-D subject cognitive score was significantly associated with having had no formal education (U=34866.5, z= -6.688, p<0.001, for females; U=20757.0, z= -6.278, p<0.001, for males). After adjusting for the effect of age, having no formal education was significantly associated with greater odds of having 'probable dementia' by CSI-D, as was illiteracy. Amongst those interviewed in phase II, there was no significant difference in literacy or education between those with diagnosed DSM-IV dementia and those without. Conclusion: In this rural Tanzanian population, we found a significant association between low levels of education and dementia by CSI-D. This relationship was not significant in cases meeting DSM-IV criteria for dementia.
Features associated with cognitive impairment and dementia in a community-based sample of illiterate elderly aged 75+ years: The Pietà study
Authors: Guimarães Henrique Cerqueira , Cascardo Jorge Luiz , Beato Rogério Gomes , Barbosa Maira Tonidandel , Machado Thais Helena , Almeida Mariana Alves de , Ritter Simone Rios Fonseca , Borges Karina Braga Gomes , Teixeira Antonio Lucio , Caramelli Paulo
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT A higher level of educational attainment constitutes a protective factor against cognitive decline in the elderly. Nevertheless, the elements underpinning this association are yet not fully understood. Objective: The primary aim of this study was to compare cognitively impaired illiterate elderly subjects with cognitively preserved counterparts, according to demographics, comorbidities, lifetime habits and APOE genotype. Methods: This is a cross-sectional analysis of the illiterate subset of participants (n=174) from the Pietà study, a community-based survey of successful brain aging conducted in Caeté (MG), Brazil. Subjects were categorized into three diagnostic groups: cognitively normal (CN), cognitive impairment no-dementia (CIND) and dementia. The groups were then compared according to selected variables. Results: Subjects with dementia were older and had an increased prevalence of reported stroke or transient ischemic attack. The three groups did not differ in relation to demographics, prevalence of comorbidities, socioeconomic level, previous occupation profile and APOE-e4 allele frequency. Qualitatively evaluated lifetime habits, such as alcohol consumption, smoking and physical activity engagement were also similar across groups. Conclusion: No associations were found between cognitive impairment/dementia and the variables evaluated in this community-based sample of illiterate elderly.
Dementia in developing countries: Does education play the same role in India as in the West?
Authors: Iyer Gowri K. , Alladi Suvarna , Bak Thomas H. , Shailaja Mekala , Mamidipudi Annapurna , Rajan Amulya , Gollahalli Divyaraj , Chaudhuri Jaydip Ray , Kaul Subhash
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Evidence suggests that education protects from dementia by enhancing cognitive reserve. However, this may be influenced by several socio-demographic factors. Rising numbers of dementia in India, high levels of illiteracy and heterogeneity in socio-demographic factors provide an opportunity to explore this relationship. Objective: To study the association between education and age at dementia onset, in relation to socio-demographic factors. Methods: Association between age at dementia onset and literacy was studied in relationship to potential confounding factors such as gender, bilingualism, place of dwelling, occupation, vascular risk factors, stroke, family history of dementia and dementia subtypes. Results: Case records of 648 dementia patients diagnosed in a specialist clinic in a University hospital in Hyderabad, India were examined. All patients were prospectively enrolled as part of an ongoing longitudinal project that aims to evaluate dementia subjects with detailed clinical, etiological, imaging, and follow-up studies. Of the 648 patients, 98 (15.1%) were illiterate. More than half of illiterate skilled workers were engaged in crafts and skilled agriculture unlike literates who were in trade or clerical jobs. Mean age at onset in illiterates was 60.1 years and in literates 64.5 years (p=0.0002). Factors independently associated with age at dementia onset were bilingualism, rural dwelling and stroke, but not education. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that in India, rural dwelling, bilingualism, stroke and occupation modify the relationship between education and dementia.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of the Phototest for cognitive impairment and dementia
Authors: Carnero-Pardo Cristóbal , Lopez-Alcalde Samuel , Allegri Ricardo Francisco , Russo María Julieta
Published: January 2016

Abstract The recently developed Phototest is a simple, easy and very brief test for detecting cognitive impairment or dementia. Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the Phototest for detecting cognitive impairment or dementia. Methods: We used a manually created database to search for studies evaluating the Phototest diagnostic yield and performed an initial meta-analysis to determine sensitivity (Sn) and specificity (Sp) of diagnostic parameters. We also performed a second meta-analysis of individual participant data. Results: In total, 6 studies were included in the meta-analysis. For dementia, Sn was 0.85 (95% CI, 0.82-0.88) and Sp 0.87 (95% CI, 0.85-0.99); for cognitive impairment, Sn was 0.80 (95% CI, 0.77-0.92) and Sp 0.88 (95% CI, 0.86-0.90). In the individual data meta-analysis, 1565 subjects were included, where best cut-off points for dementia and for cognitive impairment were 26/27 (Sn=0.89 (95% CI 0.85-0.91), Sp=0.84 (95% CI, 0.82-0.91)) and 28/29 (Sn=0.79 (95% CI, 0.76-0.81), Sp=0.88 (95% CI, 0.86-0.90)), respectively. Conclusion: Phototest has good diagnostic accuracy for dementia and cognitive impairment. It is brief, simple and can be used in illiterate persons. This makes it suitable for use in primary care settings and/or in subjects with low educational level.
Age, education and gender effects on neuropsychological functions in healthy Indian older adults
Authors: Tripathi Ravikesh , Kumar Keshav , Bharath Srikala , Marimuthu P. , Varghese Mathew
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT It is essential to use culturally appropriate, sensitive and specific tests that reflect true cognitive performance. However, several factors including age, education and gender can influence neuropsychological test performance. Objective: To examine the effects of age, education and gender on neuropsychological function in older adults using measures of global cognitive screening, attention, working memory, executive functions, memory, construction, language and parietal focal signs. Methods: This is a cross sectional normative study of 180 community-dwelling normal older adults. All participants were screened with the Hindi Mental Status Examination (HMSE), Everyday Activities Scale for India (EASI), Edinburgh handedness inventory (EDI) and MINI Screen, and followed by a detailed neuropsychological assessment. Results: Stepwise regression analysis revealed that education was associated with better performance on all the neuropsychological tests. Females performed significantly better on measures of memory. Further, most of the illiterate subjects, including low educated participants, refused to cooperate on measures of executive functioning. Conclusion: Education was found to be the strongest determinant of neuropsychological test performance followed by age and gender. Our study demonstrates that Indian healthy normal older adults with low education perform poorly on measures of planning and working memory. Traditional measures of planning and working memory should be avoided or used cautiously in the presence of low education. There is an urgent need to develop tasks for measuring executive functions, especially in low educated Indian older adults.
Verbal and visuospatial executive functions in healthy elderly: The impact of education and frequency of reading and writing
Authors: Branco Laura Damiani , Cotrena Charles , Pereira Natalie , Kochhann Renata , Fonseca Rochele Paz
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the predictive role of education and frequency of reading and writing habits (FRWH) on the cognitive flexibility, inhibition and planning abilities of healthy elderly individuals. Methods: Fifty-seven healthy adults aged between 60 and 75 years with 2 to 23 years of formal education were assessed as to the frequency with which they read and wrote different types of text, as well as their number of years of formal education. Executive functions were evaluated using the Hayling Test and the Modified Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (MWCST). Results: Weak to moderate positive correlations were found between education, FRWH and the number of categories completed in the MWCST, while negative correlations were identified between these variables and the number of perseverative and non-perseverative errors on the task. Only the FRWH was significantly correlated with the number of failures to maintain set. Speed and accuracy on the Hayling Test were only correlated with participant education. Both education and FRWH significantly predicted performance on the MWCST, and the combination of these two variables had a greater predictive impact on performance on this task than either of the two variables alone. Variability in scores on the Hayling Test was best accounted for by participant education. Conclusion: In this sample of elderly subjects, cognitive flexibility was sufficiently preserved to allow for adequate performance on verbal tasks, but may have benefitted from the additional stimulation provided by regular reading and writing habits and by formal education in the performance of more complex non-verbal tasks.
Cognitive output of a neuropsychological stimulation program in an elderly day care center with low educated participants: An observational study
Authors: Nunes Maria Vânia Silva , Pinho Ana Almeida , Campos Helena Mauricio , Abreu Paula , Gonçalves Isabel Pinto , Caldas Alexandre Castro
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Objective: In the present paper we present an observational study of the implementation of a Neuropsychological Stimulation Program at an Elderly Day Care Center in low-educated participants with very similar backgrounds concerning social economic status. Methods: The implemented program tackled several dimensions, including daily orientation sessions, cognitive stimulation sessions twice a week, followed by movement sessions, and structured sessions conducted every two weeks. Cognitive Evaluation was performed before and after implementation of the program. Results: Results are discussed taking into consideration cognitive outputs as well as non-cognitive outputs and the specificities of community-based intervention. Conclusion: It was concluded that community-based intervention is set to become vital in promoting dementia prevention.
Factors associated with quality of life in elderly undertaking literacy programs
Authors: Santos Bruna Rodrigues dos , Pavarini Sofia Cristina Iost , Brigola Allan Gustavo , Orlandi Fabiana de Souza , Inouye Keika
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Increased life expectancy has led to a significant number of elderly enrolling on Youth and Adult Education programs (YAE). These individuals leave inactivity and negative aspects of aging in search of opportunities for social inclusion. Objective: To evaluate the influence of sociodemographic factors and depressive and cognitive symptoms on quality of life (QL) of elderly attending the YAE of São Carlos city in São Paulo state. Methods: A descriptive and quantitative study approved by the Research Ethics Committee of São Carlos Federal University was conducted. The sample comprised all elderly undertaking the YAE literacy program in 2012. The instruments used were the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), WHOQOL-bref and WHOQOL-old, and a sociodemographic instrument. Results: We interviewed 23 elderly, predominantly females (91.3%) in the early stages of old age (69.6%). The number of years of YAE study showed no correlation with cognition scores obtained on the MMSE or with QL domains. However, scores on the GDS had a moderate inverse relationship with total scores for the Physical (p<0.01), Sensory Functioning (p<0.05), Independence (p<0.01), Past, Present and Future Activities (p<0.05), Social Participation (p<0.01), and Intimacy (p<0.05) QV domains, and a strong inversely proportional relationship with the Social Relationships QV domain (p<0.01). Scores attained on the MMSE showed a moderate and direct relationship with total scores on the Independence QL domain (p=0.001). Conclusion: Elderly on literacy programs have average quality of life scores. Several QL domains are influenced by depression and cognitive symptoms.
Visuospatial processing: A review from basic to current concepts
Authors: Trés Eduardo Sturzeneker , Brucki Sonia Maria Dozzi
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Introduction: Visuospatial processing is a fundamental aspect in human cognition, belonging to a complex and intricate network. It is, in other words, one of the building blocks of an individual's identity and behavior. Objective: To allow an overall and updated review of visuospatial processing and its related events, in light of new techniques and evidence, focusing on basic concepts of higher cortical functions, its pathways and associated systems. Methods: The study was conducted based on the national and international databases LILACS, MEDLINE, ScieLo and Pubmed; using the search word "visuospatial" in combination with "pathway", "processing", "function", "fMRI" and "attention". Results: A total of 77 references deemed relevant for its historical, conceptual or updated relevance were selected out of 1222 retrieved; including English, Spanish and Portuguese languages. A critical review was carried out and many new aspects discussed. Conclusion: A new functioning and construction of sight processing is being shaped, culminating now in a model based on dynamic and integrated interactions between pathways and systems.
Effect of successful aging on mortality in older individuals: The PALA study
Authors: Camozzato Ana Luiza , Godinho Claudia , Chaves Márcia Lorena Fagundes
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT The definition of successful aging and identification of predictors have been extensively reviewed, less attention however, has been given to the role of this condition on mortality. Objective: To evaluate the effect of aging status (normal or successful) on mortality in a South Brazilian population-based cohort, adjusted for sociodemographic and clinical variables, and to report the mortality rate and causes of death in this population. Methods: The baseline sample comprised 345 community-dwelling, independent and healthy Southern Brazilian older individuals who were followed for 12 years. Clinical, socio-demographic, functional and cognitive variables were assessed at baseline and during the follow-up. At baseline, 214 participants fulfilled criteria for successful aging, and 131 for normal aging. The main outcome was death. Results: The Cox regression model showed an increased risk for mortality in subjects with normal aging (HR=1.9; p=0.003) adjusted by age (HR=1.1; p<0.001) and by sex (HR=1.9; p=0.002). The overall mortality rate was 41% and the rate was significantly lower among successful than normal agers (p=0.001). The main causes of death were cardiovascular disease and cancer. Conclusion: Our main finding was an increased risk of mortality among normal in comparison with successful aging subjects, emphasizing the impact of the heterogeneity of the healthy aging process on mortality.
Longitudinal effects of physical activity on self-efficacy and cognitive processing of active and sedentary elderly women
Authors: Rosanti Sofia , Silva Guilherme Elias da , Santos Flávia Heloísa
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT Previous studies support that regular physical activity in aging contributes as a protective factor against cognitive decline and improves mood states. However, there is a lack of longitudinal studies in this area. Objective: To observe possible changes in cognition related with physical activity. Methods: This study reassessed, after one-year period, 31 elderly women divided into two groups, sedentary versus active, using behavioral scales and cognitive tests. Results: The active group exhibited significantly enhanced performance in general cognitive function, particularly on tasks of episodic memory and praxis, and also on the mood states scale compared to the sedentary group. The active women also reported higher self-efficacy. Conclusion: Long-term physical activity promoted improvement on quality of life in the elderly women.
On the Potential Insurability of HIV
Authors: White John F.
Published: January 2016

For the past two years, a group of medical directors representing a wide variety of companies with a concentration in life insurance has reviewed literature pertinent to the mortality studies on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and has had discussions with experts in the field. We did so as a result of our commitment to studying this disease process with an eye toward applying our findings to enhance individual companies’ analysis of the potential insurability of people currently living with HIV. This is something that to our knowledge has not been done in a similar form in this country in the recent past. Through this process, we discovered many interesting facts that we thought all active medical directors should know. And, I think it is likely that the differing risk appetites of life insurers is such that a large number of individuals living with HIV might be found to be insurable for coverage at this time.

In this brief paper, I hope to refresh your memories of the virus responsible for HIV, review its current epidemiology and give some historical perspective to the virus, its treatment, and life insurers’ responses to this infection.
HIV: A Chronic Condition
Authors: Zimmerman Daniel D.
Published: January 2016

By virtue of the success of anti-retroviral therapy (ART), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has evolved into a chronic disease in which the typical complications of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are no longer the dominant problem. Rather than dealing with acute and potentially life-threatening complications, clinicians are now confronted with managing a chronic disease that, in the absence of a cure, will persist for many decades.1 This review will focus on the longer term sequelae and consequences of chronic HIV infection.
Highly Sensitive Troponin and Critical Illness Insurance: Have the Goalposts Moved Again?
Authors: Senn Alban , Meagher Timothy
Published: January 2016

An elevated cardiac troponin is a sine qua non for the clinical diagnosis of myocardial infarction. The sensitivity of troponin assays has improved repeatedly since troponin entered clinical use in the late 1990s. Its most recent iteration, “highly sensitive” troponin will shortly enter clinical use in North America. It is able to detect amounts of troponin 10 times smaller than the current assay. As a result, more myocardial infarctions will be diagnosed. This may have an impact on the number of critical illness claims for heart attack.
Unusual QRS Pattern in the Early Precordial Leads
Authors: MacKenzie Ross
Published: January 2016

An asymptomatic, middle-aged man is found to have a QR pattern in lead V1 and a qR pattern in lead V2 of his ECG obtained during routine life insurance applicant screening. The risk assessment implication of this ECG finding is reviewed.
A More Useful Agenda for Water Management
Authors: Muller Mike
Published: January 2016

In this opinion editorial, New Water Policy and Practice International Advisory Board member Prof Mike Muller (Wits University Graduate School of Governance and former Director General of the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, South Africa) begins with his thoughts on a more useful agenda for water management. Reflecting on examples of rights to water, privatisation and commoditisation of water in South Africa, the debate about dams and development in Africa, and river basins, regional institutions and state sovereignty, Mike presents the case that the current water management discourse has been distorted by strong interests with, on occasion, very significant negative impacts.
Engaging and Incentivizing the Private Sector: An Emerging Opportunity for the Water World
Authors: Adeel Zafar
Published: January 2016

In this opinion editorial, New Water Policy and Practice International Advisory Board member Dr Zafar Adeel (Director of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health, Canada) gives his thoughts on the role of the private sector in solving the world's water problems. Adeel opens by pointing out some of the failures of current approaches, identifies emerging opportunities that did not exist before now, describes the challenges of engaging and incentivising the private sector and finishes with the need to create positive incentives and effective regulations to support private sector contributions to resolution of the world's water problems.
Water on The African Continent and Its Use and Benefits for Development: A Vision for Angola
Authors: dos Santos Carmen
Published: January 2016

In this opinion editorial, New Water Policy and Practice International Advisory Board member Dr Carmen dos Santos (Director of the Department of Biology in the University of Agostinho Neto, Angola) discusses the challenges and the recent development of the institutional framework for water management in Angola in the context of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with particular focus on the recognition of the strategic importance of water for the regional economic integration, and on the management of shared water resources.
Integrated Water Resources Management from Rhetoric to Practice
Authors: Khan Shahbaz
Published: January 2016

In this opinion editorial, New Water Policy and Practice International Advisory Board member Prof Shahbaz Khan (Deputy Director UNESCO Regional Science Bureau for Asia and the Pacific, Jakarta, Indonesia) presents some ideas on how to move Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) from rhetoric to action. Reflecting on IWRM, and on some of the difficulties experienced in its implementation, Shahbaz discusses some international initiatives which can strengthen IWRM in practice, identifies obstacles to operationalising IWRM principles and proposes some opportunities to facilitate IWRM implementation at the river basin level.
Transboundary Wastewater Management Under Conditions of Inadequate Infrastructure and Political Complexity: the Need for Decentralized Approaches
Authors: Lipchin Clive
Published: January 2016

In this opinion editorial, New Water Policy and Practice International Advisory Board member Dr Clive Lipchin (Director of the Center for Trans‐boundary Water Management, Arava Institute for Environmental Studies, Israel) discusses the need for decentralized approaches to transboundary wastewater management under conditions of inadequate infrastructure and political complexity. Clive focuses on the need for local approaches, stressing the relevance of community level management approaches and, using the Israel‐Palestine context in Gaza as a case example, calls for adaptation to socio‐political challenges to find long‐lasting solutions.
Os impactos da tecnologia de mulching utilizada no cultivo do melão na região de Mossoró
Authors: Queiroga G. M. T. , Sousa M. L. R. , Silva J. K. , Rodrigues D. N. J. , Siqueira E. S.
Published: January 2016

A tecnologia de mulching é uma ferramenta que possibilita a redução de gastos para os produtores no tocante a utilização de agroquímicos, água de irrigação e a utilização de mão-de-obra, além de promover melhoria na qualidade da fruta produzida e o aumento da produção. O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar os impactos provocados pelo uso do mulch no meio ambiental, social e econômico de uma comunidade rural de Mossoró/RN. Fez-se o uso de observações, entrevista semiestruturada e questionário estruturado, o qual foi aplicado a 12,5% dos participantes de um total de 32. Os resultados mostram que essa tecnologia é utilizada por todos os produtores, com o intuito de melhorar a produção do melão em quantidade e qualidade.  Contudo, o uso do mulch de polietileno, utilizado nessa técnica, acarreta preocupações quanto ao seu descarte pós-uso, com a utilização de práticas arcaicas como as queimadas que afetam de forma gradual a saúde do trabalhador e as propriedades biológicas do solo.

The impacts of mulching technology used in melon cultivation in Mossoró region

Abstract: The mulching technology is a tool that enables cost reduction for producers regarding the use of agrochemicals, irrigation water and the use of labor force, promoting improvement in the produced fruit quality and increasing production. The present study aimed to evaluate the impacts caused by the use of mulch in the environmental, social and economic environment of a rural community of Mossoró / RN. Observation, semi-structured interview and structured questionnaire were used in the study, and the questionnaire was applied to 12.5% of participants from a total of 32. The results show that this technology is used by all producers, in order to improve the production of melon in quantity and quality. However, the use of polyethylene mulch utilized therein causes concern as to their post-use disposal, with the use of archaic practices, such as burning, that gradually affect workers' health and biological properties of the soil.
Exposição por chumbo dos profissionais de segurança pública na região de Cascavel-PR
Authors: Souza V. De , Korand O. , Gonçalves Junior A. C.
Published: January 2016

EO objetivo desta pesquisa é mostrar os riscos a que estão expostos os profissionais de segurança pública. Sendo realizadas análises do solo do estande de tiro, verificandoos índices de contaminação por chumbo para apresentar o panorama atual de como está este ambiente utilizado pelos policiais militares. .Este trabalho apresenta os resultados do monitoramento temporal do solo do estande de tiro da Polícia Militar localizado no município de Cascavel, Paraná, através de levantamento de amostras em duas campanhas realizadas nos anos de 2013 e 2015. Que consistiu na comparação dos resultados, executados nos mesmos locais. Obtendo-se assim os teores de chumbo tendo em vista a deposição de projéteis de arma de fogo no solo do estande. Foi possível avaliar o grau de contaminação existente e comparar com a determinação legal da Resolução 420 do CONAMA que estabelece os níveis aceitáveis ou não de chumbo no solo. Os índices de teores de chumbo apresentados demonstram que os profissionais de segurança pública, em particular os policiais militares, podem estar expostos à contaminação e assim devem ser tomadas medidas de remediação conforme a prevê a legislação vigente. 

Lead exposure in the professional public safety region Cascavel-PR
Abstract: The objective of this research is to show the risks they are public safety workers exposed. Being from the shooting range soil analyzes, verifying the lead contamination indexes to present the current situation of how this environment is used by police. This paper presents the results of temporal monitoring of soil Military Police firing range located in Cascavel, Paraná, through a survey samples in two campaigns conducted in the years 2013 and 2015. That was the comparison of results, performed in same places. Thus yielding the lead content in view of the deposition of firearm projectiles in the soil of the stand. It was possible to evaluate the degree of contamination and compare with the legal requirements of Resolution 420 of CONAMA establishing acceptable levels or absence of lead in soil. The lead content ratios presented show that the public safety professionals, particularly the military police, may be exposed to contamination and thus should be taken remedial measures as the current legislation provides.
 

 
Plantio de aveia-preta na região de São Mateus no estado do Espirito Santo, Brasil
Authors: Cardoso D. P. , Nicole L. R. , Oliosi G. , Pires F. R.
Published: January 2016

Dentre as cultivares de aveia-preta, optou-se pela cultivar Embrapa 29 (Garoa) por ser uma espécie de boa produção de massa e adaptada às condições da região Sudeste. Mas, não há estudo do cultivo da aveia-preta para a região norte do Espírito Santo. Portanto, avaliar o crescimento e desenvolvimento da Avena strigosa cultivar Embrapa 29 (Garoa) nas condições edafoclimáticas do norte do ES, torna-se de suma importância para região, visto que essa propicia várias melhorias na qualidade do solo. A área onde foi instalado o experimento, pertence à Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Centro Universitário Norte do Espírito Santo-CEUNES, câmpus de São Mateus – ES. A semeadura foi realizada com uma máquina de plantio direto em sulcos espaçados de 0,30 m. Não realizou a correção da acidez do solo e nem aplicações de adubos minerais e orgânicos. Mesmo com o plantio tardio, a aveia-preta teve um bom desenvolvimento nas condições edafoclimáticas da região norte do ES. Este, possivelmente, foi beneficiado pela textura, visto que não há nenhum impedimento para o sistema radicular da planta. A aveia-preta desenvolve bem nas condições edafoclimáticas da região de São Mateus-ES, principalmente, sobre um Argiloso Amarelo de textura do tipo areia-franca.

Oat planting in the region of São Mateus in the State of Espirito Santo, Brazil

Abstract: Among the cultivars of oat, it was decided to Embrapa 29 (Garoa) to be a good kind of mass production and adapted to the conditions in the Southeast. But there is no study of the cultivation of oat to the northern region of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, assessing the growth and development of Avena strigosa Embrapa 29 (Garoa) at conditions of northern ES, it is of paramount importance for the region, since this provides a number of improvements in soil quality. The area where the experiment was conducted, belongs to the Federal University of Espirito Santo, University Center North-CEUNES Holy Spirit campus of St. Matthew - ES. Sowing was carried out with a tillage machine in spaced grooves of 0.30 m. Did not make the correct soil acidity and, mineral and organic fertilizers applications. Even with the late planting, oat had a good development in the environmental conditions of the northern region ES. This possibly benefited from the texture, since there is no impediment to the root system of the plant. The black oats grow well in soil and climatic conditions of São Mateus-ES region, mainly on a Yellow Argillaceous type of texture sand-franca.
Online college laboratory courses: Can they be done and will they affect graduation and retention rates?
Authors: van Hunnik Eddy
Published: January 2016

Online education has been steadily growing during the last decade. This growth has mainly taken place in the non-laboratory science fields. This essay describes some of the best practices to increase and maintain student retention, increase student engagement and increase graduation rates for college running online laboratory science courses. This article further discusses how to run successful, hands-on laboratory courses for your online students. The most common issues are being discussed and what can be done to provide the students with the same hands-on experience online as what they would experience in a more traditional classroom setting.DOI: 10.18870/hlrc.v5i4.289
Meccanismi immunologici alla base della tolleranza immunitaria
Authors: Uccelli Antonio
Published: January 2016

(Neurology)
L’interazione tra sistema immunitario e sistema nervoso nella sclerosi multipla
Authors: Centonze Diego
Published: January 2016

No abstract available (Neurology)
Sclerosi multipla: le basi razionali dell’immunosoppressione
Authors: Gallo Paolo
Published: January 2016

No abstract available (Neurology)
Meccanismo d’azione dei farmaci più recenti, Teriflunomide e Alemtuzumab e implicazioni terapeutiche
Authors: Patti Francesco
Published: January 2016

No abstract available (Neurology)
Fermentation of Fall‐oat Balage over Winter in Northern Climates
Authors: Coblentz Wayne K. , Muck Richard E. , Cavadini Jason S.
Published: January 2016

The effects of below‐freezing temperatures on silage fermentation are poorly understood. Recently, several studies have evaluated the efficacy of producing fall‐grown oat (Avena sativa L.) as an emergency silage crop within central Wisconsin; this late‐season forage option is attractive because the yield potential is good, and these forages also may accumulate significant amounts of sugar following frost events. ‘Vista’ oat from two field sites was harvested at the boot (Experiment 1) or early‐heading (Experiment 2) stages of growth, and then baled and ensiled in plastic film on 15 Nov. 2013. Bales were sampled over the winter and spring, concluding with a final sampling date of 15 May. Generally, there was little evidence of silage fermentation before internal bale temperatures exceeding 32°F, which occurred on 15 and 13 April for Experiments 1 and 2, respectively. During the final month of sampling, the respective pH of these silages declined to 4.61 and 5.71 for Experiments 1 and 2, and substantial amounts of ethanol were produced in each case (5.82 and 4.85%); however, lactic acid production was much greater for Experiment 1 (4.82%) than for Experiment 2 (1.63%). Silage fermentation within both experiments likely included significant activity by anaerobic yeasts, which metabolize sugars, thereby yielding ethanol and CO2. These results indicate that silage fermentation can be delayed until spring by below‐freezing temperatures within the ensiled forage mass, and the high sugar content of these oat forages (≥21.0%) can encourage the production of ethanol, likely through activity of anaerobic yeasts.
Timing of Cover Crop Termination: Management Considerations for the Southeast
Authors: Balkcom Kipling S. , Duzy Leah M. , Kornecki Ted S. , Price Andrew J.
Published: January 2016

Conservation tillage combined with high‐residue cover crops make up the two components that define a conservation system designed to increase productivity and improve soil quality. Cover crops are an important part of these systems that maintain and/or improve soil quality. The proper timing of cover crop termination is one important management consideration growers must consider on a site‐ and situation‐specific basis when adopting a conservation system. Cover crops terminated too early in the season diminish associated soil quality and crop production benefits, while delaying termination until closer to cash crop planting dates maximizes soil quality and crop production benefits. However, delaying termination increases risk associated with crop emergence, particularly in dryland conditions. Management considerations that include the cover crop growing season, soil moisture, soil temperature, nitrogen (N) management, alleopathy/weed suppressive potential, and equipment each affect timing of cover crop termination. Growers that consider each of these management considerations with respect to timing of cover crop termination can successfully use cover crops to enhance crop productivity while minimizing risk to cash crop establishment.
Forage Brassicas Stockpiled for Fall Grazing: Yield and Nutritive Value
Authors: Villalobos Luis A. , Brummer Joe E.
Published: January 2016

Forage brassicas can potentially be used to extend the grazing season into the fall for beef cattle operations, thereby reducing input costs. Nine cultivars of forage brassicas were seeded on two planting dates, and their yield and nutritive value were measured for two fall harvest dates over 2 years in northern Colorado. Cultivars evaluated included three turnips (Brassica rapa L.; Purple Top, Barkant, and Appin); three rapes (Brassica napus L.; Winfred, Barnapoli, and Bonar); Groundhog radish (Raphanus sativus L.); Major Plus swede [Brassica napobrassica (L.) Mill.]; and Pasja hybrid (Chinese cabbage [Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis (L.) Hanelt] × turnip hybrid). Dry matter (DM) yield, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (aNDF), and in vitro true digestibility (IVTD) were evaluated using a three‐way factorial treatment structure. Planting date was the overriding factor impacting DM yield with an overall reduction of 3770 lb/acre by delaying planting until mid‐August. Additional forage was also obtained by delaying the harvest date until mid‐November, but the increase was minor compared with yields obtained with earlier planting. The rapes tended to yield the highest when seeded in mid‐ to late July, but there were only minor differences among cultivars seeded in mid‐August. Fiber content of forage brassicas was low (19.0–25.2%), and CP content (18.6–25.5%) and IVTD (85.5–92.9%) were above the requirements for all classes and stages of beef cattle. Forage brassicas had minor changes in nutritive value during the fall, which makes them suitable for stockpiling when combined with lower‐quality forages to dilute their high nutrient content and thereby minimize the potential for rumen upset.
Deficit Irrigation and Simulated Traffic on ‘Tifway’ Bermudagrass Summer Performance and Autumn Recovery
Authors: Hejl Reagan W. , Wherley Benjamin G. , White Richard H. , Thomas James C. , Fontanier Charles H.
Published: January 2016

Golf course water use continues to be highly scrutinized. Information is limited regarding minimal levels of reference evapotranspiration (ETo)‐based irrigation needed to maintain adequate summer fairway performance and autumn recovery. The objectives of this 2‐yr study were to (i) characterize ‘Tifway’ bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt Davy] fairway response to irrigation levels of 0.6, 0.45, 0.3, and 0.0 × ETo, with and without simulated summer traffic and (ii) evaluate effects of irrigation and traffic on autumn recovery at full irrigation levels. Without traffic, ≥0.3 × ETo was generally adequate for maintaining acceptable quality both years. Withholding irrigation altogether resulted in unacceptable turf quality both years. Summer traffic reduced quality and percentage green cover at all irrigation levels. Canopy temperatures increased with diminishing irrigation, with up to 25°C difference between 0.6 × ETo and unirrigated plots. Upon resumption of full irrigation in autumn, deficit and unirrigated treatments rebounded to 80 to 90% green cover by late autumn. However, in Year 2, only irrigated plots recovered to adequate cover levels, with unirrigated plots suffering substantial injury with only 30% green cover by late autumn. While no rooting differences were detected in Year 1, turf the 0.3 × ETo and unirrigated treatments had lower root dry weights than 0.45 and 0.6 × ETo treatments in Year 2. These data suggest provision of minimal deficit irrigation levels during summer drought may be important for sustaining turf viability and promoting autumn recovery of bermudagrass following successive years of summer drought stress.
Colchicine Alternatives for Chromosome Doubling in Maize Haploids for Doubled‐Haploid Production
Authors: Melchinger Albrecht E. , Molenaar Willem S. , Mirdita Vilson , Schipprack Wolfgang
Published: January 2016

In vivo production of doubled‐haploid (DH) lines in maize (Zea mays L.) routinely involves artificial chromosome doubling by colchicine treatment of seedlings. Because colchicine is a hazardous chemical, replacing it by less‐toxic alternatives would be highly desirable. Our objectives were to (i) test the efficacy of various herbicides alone or in combination with other herbicides or phytohormones as chromosome doubling agents, (ii) evaluate the efficacy of application of these chemicals for different durations and methods of delivery to meristems, and (iii) compare colchicine treatment with the most promising alternative treatment under economic aspects. Several antimitotic herbicides with different modes of action and two phytohormones were tested in various combinations and concentrations in four experiments for survival rate (SR) of germinated seedlings, reproduction rate (RR) measured as the proportion of D0 plants with seed set, and overall success rate (OSR) measured as the proportion of D1 ears with seed set obtained from the germinated seedlings. Amiprophos‐methyl (APM) and pronamid, applied with the seedling soaking method, outperformed all other alternative treatments tested and reached almost the same OSR as colchicine. Cost comparison between the best treatment, containing APM and pronamid, and the colchicine control showed that the total production cost per D0 plant with seed set was about 10% higher than for colchicine as a result of slightly lower OSR. In conclusion, APM combined in an optimum dosage with pronamid is a promising alternative to colchicine in view of the lower toxicity and similar rate of chromosome doubling in maize.
Measuring Dew and Its Effect on Ammonia Volatilization from Surface‐Applied Broiler Litter in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Cassity-Duffey Kate , Cabrera Miguel
Published: January 2016

Core Ideas

Dew deposition is often overlooked in humid regions but may play an important role in nutrient cycling for surface‐applied fertilizers and broiler litter.

Dew accumulated during the measurement period accounted for 6% of the precipitation measured with heaviest dew recorded in the spring and winter months.

Under laboratory conditions, simulated dew led to increased ammonia loss for surface‐applied broiler litter.

Incorporation of dew as a significant weather variable may better aid in predicting NH3loss using simulation models.

Dew deposition is often overlooked in humid regions, such as the southeastern USA, but may play an important role in nutrient cycling for surface‐applied fertilizers and broiler litter. The objectives of this study were to measure dew in a pasture and to evaluate the effect of simulated dew on NH3volatilization in a laboratory study. A microlysimeter method was used to measure dew in a tall fescue (Festuca arundinaceaSchreb.) and bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylonL.) pasture over 206 d. In the 206 d measured, 119 d received dew with an average dew fall of 0.19 mm and greater events observed in the cooler spring and fall months. Dew accumulated during the measurement period accounted for 6% of the precipitation measured. Under lab conditions, the effect of simulated, daily dew (0.2 mm) on NH3volatilization from surface‐applied broiler litter to air‐dry soil was evaluated under diurnal fluctuations of temperature (6–27°C) and relative humidity (26–91%) for 15 d. Dew application significantly increased NH3volatilization losses (31% of the applied NH4–N and 5% of the applied total nitrogen [TN]) when compared with NH3losses in the absence of dew (15% of the applied NH4–N and 2.4% of the applied TN). These results suggest that dew may affect NH3losses from surface‐applied broiler litter under dry field conditions.