bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gefährdetes Leben, Verletzbarkeit und die Ethik der Kohabitation
Authors: Butler Judith
Published: November 2012

The article scutinizes the solicitation we experience when affected by human suffering at a distance. Referring to the approaches of Emmanuel Lévinas and Hannah Arendt, the author outlines her Ethic of Cohabitation and points to both writers’ particular and rather diverging affiliation to Jewish heritage. The author’s own idea of alternative Jewishness emphasizes the importance of solidarity with those who are threatened by persecution or subjugation, with the dispossessed and the “ungrievable”, even and especially with those who exceed our immediate sphere of belonging.
„Du wirst nicht töten“. Lévinas’ Ethik der Verantwortung als erste Philosophie
Authors: Buddeberg Eva
Published: November 2012

This paper outlines Lévinas’ conception of responsibility as non-intentional relatedness to the Other, a conception he regards as constitutive of human subjectivity. In doing so, it uncovers parallels between Lévinas’ interpretation of Judaism and his philosophical works. In the latter, he develops his account of ethics as a critique of the philosophical tradition which risks, according to Lévinas, missing the fundamental ethical dimension of the human’s being. Finally, the paper explores the question of whether it is possible to draw on Lévinas in order to develop an alternative approach to political philosophy.
Glaube und Vernunft. Ironie in der conditio humana?
Authors: Taylor Charles , Krüger Hans-Peter
Published: November 2012

Charles Taylor explains a broader understanding of faith as well as of reason in his philosophical anthropology. In leading one’s own life, faith contains more than having certain beliefs, and reason grasps more than having scientific methods. Taylor answers questions regarding the relation of his great narrative to the approaches of M. Heidegger, M. Merleau-Ponty, M. Foucault, K. Jaspers, and S. Eisenstadt (axial cultures and multiple modernities). Insofar as the secularization of Christianity involves ironic reversals, all main directions in Western modernity (forms of religion, secular humanism, and anti-humanism) are faced with dilemmas. Instead of looking for scapegoats in the others, all directions are called upon to cooperate. The open questionability of the Human condition has no last answer.
A Germline Clone Screen on theXChromosome Reveals Novel Meiotic Mutants inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Collins Kimberly A , Callicoat Jonathon G , Lake Cathleen M , McClurken Cailey M , Kohl Kathryn P , Hawley R Scott
Published: November 2012

In an effort to isolate novel meiotic mutants that are severely defective in chromosome segregation and/or exchange, we employed a germline clone screen of the X chromosome of Drosophila melanogaster. We screened over 120,000 EMS-mutagenized chromosomes and isolated 19 mutants, which comprised nine complementation groups. Four of these complementation groups mapped to known meiotic genes, including mei-217, mei-218, mei-9, and nod. Importantly, we have identified two novel complementation groups with strong meiotic phenotypes, as assayed by X chromosome nondisjunction. One complementation group is defined by three alleles, and the second novel complementation group is defined by a single allele. All 19 mutants are homozygous viable, fertile, and fully recessive. Of the 9 mutants that have been molecularly characterized, 5 are canonical EMS-induced transitions, and the remaining 4 are transversions. In sum, we have identified two new genes that are defined by novel meiotic mutants, in addition to isolating new alleles of mei-217, mei-218, mei-9, and nod.
Large-Scale Screening for Targeted Knockouts in the Caenorhabditis elegans Genome
Authors:   The C. elegans Deletion Mutant Consortium
Published: November 2012

The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a powerful model system to study contemporary biological problems. This system would be even more useful if we had mutations in all the genes of this multicellular metazoan. The combined efforts of the C. elegans Deletion Mutant Consortium and individuals within the worm community are moving us ever closer to this goal. At present, of the 20,377 protein-coding genes in this organism, 6764 genes with associated molecular lesions are either deletions or null mutations (WormBase WS220). Our three laboratories have contributed the majority of mutated genes, 6841 mutations in 6013 genes. The principal method we used to detect deletion mutations in the nematode utilizes polymerase chain reaction (PCR). More recently, we have used array comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) to detect deletions across the entire coding part of the genome and massively parallel short-read sequencing to identify nonsense, splicing, and missense defects in open reading frames. As deletion strains can be frozen and then thawed when needed, these strains will be an enduring community resource. Our combined molecular screening strategies have improved the overall throughput of our gene-knockout facilities and have broadened the types of mutations that we and others can identify. These multiple strategies should enable us to eventually identify a mutation in every gene in this multicellular organism. This knowledge will usher in a new age of metazoan genetics in which the contribution to any biological process can be assessed for all genes.
A Forward Genetic Screen Identifies Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 3, Subunit H (eIF3h), as an Enhancer of Variegation in the Mouse
Authors: Daxinger Lucia , Oey Harald , Apedaile Anwyn , Sutton Joanne , Ashe Alyson , Whitelaw Emma
Published: November 2012

We have used a forward genetic screen to identify genes required for transgene silencing in the mouse. Previously these genes were found using candidate-based sequencing, a slow and labor-intensive process. Recently, whole-exome deep sequencing has accelerated our ability to find the causative point mutations, resulting in the discovery of novel and sometimes unexpected genes. Here we report the identification of translation initiation factor 3, subunit H (eIF3h) in two modifier of murine metastable epialleles (Mommes) lines. Mice carrying mutations in this gene have not been reported previously, and a possible involvement of eIF3h in transcription or epigenetic regulation has not been considered.
Shrinkage Estimation of the Realized Relationship Matrix
Authors: Endelman Jeffrey B , Jannink Jean-Luc
Published: November 2012

The additive relationship matrix plays an important role in mixed model prediction of breeding values. For genotype matrix X (loci in columns), the product XX′ is widely used as a realized relationship matrix, but the scaling of this matrix is ambiguous. Our first objective was to derive a proper scaling such that the mean diagonal element equals 1+f, where f is the inbreeding coefficient of the current population. The result is a formula involving the covariance matrix for sampling genomic loci, which must be estimated with markers. Our second objective was to investigate whether shrinkage estimation of this covariance matrix can improve the accuracy of breeding value (GEBV) predictions with low-density markers. Using an analytical formula for shrinkage intensity that is optimal with respect to mean-squared error, simulations revealed that shrinkage can significantly increase GEBV accuracy in unstructured populations, but only for phenotyped lines; there was no benefit for unphenotyped lines. The accuracy gain from shrinkage increased with heritability, but at high heritability (> 0.6) this benefit was irrelevant because phenotypic accuracy was comparable. These trends were confirmed in a commercial pig population with progeny-test-estimated breeding values. For an anonymous trait where phenotypic accuracy was 0.58, shrinkage increased the average GEBV accuracy from 0.56 to 0.62 (SE < 0.00) when using random sets of 384 markers from a 60K array. We conclude that when moderate-accuracy phenotypes and low-density markers are available for the candidates of genomic selection, shrinkage estimation of the relationship matrix can improve genetic gain.
Obesity Disparities Among Elementary-Aged Children: Data From School-Based BMI Surveillance
Authors: Bailey-Davis Lisa , Horst Michael , Hillemeier Marianne M. , Lauter Alison
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVES:

To examine 3-year trends and spatial clustering in the prevalence of obesity among elementary-aged children in Pennsylvania.

METHODS:

Height and weight were measured for ∼980 000 children between ages 5 and 12 years, corresponding to kindergarten through grade 6 in 3 consecutive school years (2006–2007, 2007–2008, 2008–2009). These data were obtained at the school district level and reported to the Pennsylvania Department of Health in response to a state mandate requiring public schools to conduct annual surveillance of student growth. Analyses at the school district level (n = 501) regarding obesity prevalence (BMI ≥ 95th percentile) according to age and gender were conducted to examine associations over time and in relation to population density, geographic boundaries, and a calculated family distress index.

RESULTS:

The mean prevalence of obesity remained stable over 3 years at ∼17.6% of elementary-aged children. However, within the state, significant differences in the prevalence of obesity were identified. Schools in the most rural areas had adjusted obesity prevalence over 2 percentage points higher than urban schools. Consistent with secular findings for the nation in general, students with families living in socioeconomic distress exhibited upward trends in obesity risk.

CONCLUSIONS:

School-based surveillance elucidates the disparate risk of obesity for younger students living in the most rural areas, a key finding for primarily rural states. Preventive interventions are needed to reach the most rural children with an emphasis on families where parents are single, are unemployed, have a lower income, and lower educational attainment.
Parents Smoking in Their Cars With Children Present
Authors: Nabi-Burza Emara , Regan Susan , Drehmer Jeremy , Ossip Deborah , Rigotti Nancy , Hipple Bethany , Dempsey Janelle , Hall Nicole , Friebely Joan , Weiley Victoria , Winickoff Jonathan P.
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To determine prevalence and factors associated with strictly enforced smoke-free car policies among smoking parents.

METHODS:

As part of a cluster, randomized controlled trial addressing parental smoking, exit interviews were conducted with parents whose children were seen in 10 control pediatric practices. Parents who smoked were asked about smoking behaviors in their car and receipt of smoke-free car advice at the visit. Parents were considered to have a “strictly enforced smoke-free car policy” if they reported having a smoke-free car policy and nobody had smoked in their car within the past 3 months.

RESULTS:

Of 981 smoking parents, 817 (83%) had a car; of these, 795 parents answered questions about their car smoking policy. Of these 795 parents, 29% reported having a smoke-free car policy, and 24% had a strictly enforced smoke-free car policy. Of the 562 parents without a smoke-free car policy, 48% reported that smoking occurred with children present. Few parents who smoke (12%) were advised to have a smoke-free car. Multivariable logistic regression controlling for parent age, gender, education, and race showed that having a younger child and smoking ≤10 cigarettes per day were associated with having a strictly enforced smoke-free car policy.

CONCLUSIONS:

The majority of smoking parents exposed their children to tobacco smoke in cars. Coupled with the finding of low rates of pediatricians addressing smoking in cars, this study highlights the need for improved pediatric interventions, public health campaigns, and policies regarding smoke-free car laws to protect children from tobacco smoke.
Expected Body Weight in Adolescents: Comparison Between Weight-for-Stature and BMI Methods
Authors: Golden Neville H. , Yang Wei , Jacobson Marc S. , Robinson Thomas N. , Shaw Gary M.
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To test the hypothesis that the weight-for-stature (WFS) and BMI methods are not equivalent in determining expected body weight (EBW) in adolescents with eating disorders and to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of each method to detect those <75% EBW. We hypothesized that differences in EBW would be greatest at the extremes of height.

METHODS:

EBW was determined for 12 047 individual adolescents aged 12 to 19 years by the WFS and BMI methods by utilizing the same National Center for Health Statistics data sets. Absolute difference between the 2 methods for each individual was calculated and plotted against height by using a generalized additive model. The number of individuals whose weights were <75% EBW was determined by each method.

RESULTS:

For girls, EBW was 3.52 ± 3.13% higher when using the WFS method compared with the BMI method. For boys, EBWWFS was 3.45 ± 2.72% higher than EBWBMI. Among adolescent girls, 65% had EBWWFS higher than EBWBMI. By using the EBWWFS method as the gold standard, specificity of the EBWBMI method to detect those <75% EBW was 0.999, but sensitivity was only 0.329. Absolute differences in EBW were most pronounced at the extremes of height.

CONCLUSIONS:

The WFS and BMI methods are not equivalent in determining EBW in adolescents and are not interchangeable. EBWWFS was ∼3.5% higher than EBWBMI. In adolescents with eating disorders, use of the BMI method will underestimate the degree of malnutrition compared with the WFS method. Which method better predicts meaningful clinical outcomes remains to be determined.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Suppression in Asthmatic School Children
Authors: Zöllner Ekkehard Werner , Lombard Carl J. , Galal Ushma , Hough F. Stephen , Irusen Elvis M. , Weinberg Eugene
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression (HPAS) when treating children with corticosteroids is thought to be rare. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of and predictive factors for various degrees of HPAS.

METHODS:

Clinical features of HPAS, doses, adherence, asthma score, and lung functions were recorded in 143 asthmatic children. The overnight metyrapone test was performed if morning cortisol was >83 nmol/L. Spearman correlations coefficients (r) were calculated between 3 postmetyrapone outcomes and each continuous variable. A multiple linear regression model of √postmetyrapone adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and a logistic regression model for HPAS were developed.

RESULTS:

Hypocortisolemia was seen in 6.1% (1.8–10.5), hypothalamic-pituitary suppression (HPS) in 22.2% (14.5–29.9), adrenal suppression in 32.3% (23.7–40.9), HPAS in 16.3% (9.3–23.3), and any hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction in 65.1% (56.5–72.9). Log daily nasal steroid (NS) dose/m2 was associated with HPAS in the logistic regression model (odds ratio = 3.7 [95% confidence interval: 1.1–13.6]). Daily inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) + NS dose/m2 predicted HPAS in the univariate logistic regression model (P = .038). Forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity <80% was associated with HPAS (odds ratio = 4.1 [95% confidence interval: 1.0–14.8]). Daily ICS + NS/m2 dose was correlated with the postmetyrapone ACTH (r = −0.29, P < .001). BMI (P = .048) and percent adherence to ICS (P < .001) and NS (P = .002) were predictive of √postmetyrapone ACTH (R2 = .176).

CONCLUSIONS:

Two-thirds of children on corticosteroids may have hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction. In one-third, central function had recovered but adrenal suppression persisted. Predictive factors for HPAS are NS use, BMI, and adherence to ICS and NS.
Informed Choice for Newborn Blood Spot Screening in the United Kingdom: A Survey of Parental Perceptions
Authors: Nicholls Stuart G. , Southern Kevin W.
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE:

In the United Kingdom, newborn blood spot screening proceeds on the basis of consent based on an informed choice. However, little is known about parent experiences of this process. This study was intended to explore parents’ understanding of newborn screening and their experience of the consent process using a structured survey.

METHODS:

A mail survey exploring key components of consent was sent to parents whose children had been screened in the year before the study. A descriptive analysis of responses together with logistic regression was performed to identify variables that predicted parental likelihood to agree that they had made an informed choice to screening.

RESULTS:

Most parents indicated they understood why the heel prick was done, but only a third understood how conditions would be dealt with if found. Almost a third of parents reported that they did not feel they had a choice to decline screening, yet >70% felt they had made an informed choice. Logistic regression indicated previous children, understanding why the heel prick was done, having time to make a decision, and feeling they had a choice were significant predictors of feeling an informed choice had been made.

CONCLUSIONS:

The findings support previous studies that screening may be seen as a fait accompli. Analyses indicated that allowing time to make a decision (eg, by providing information during pregnancy, emphasizing the decision-making aspect, and clearly articulating the reasons behind screening) may help parents feel that they have made an informed choice.
Home Safety and Low-Income Urban Housing Quality
Authors: Gielen Andrea C. , Shields Wendy , McDonald Eileen , Frattaroli Shannon , Bishai David , Ma Xia
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVES:

Living in substandard housing may be one factor that increases the risk of fire and burn injuries in low-income urban environments. The purposes of this study are to (1) describe the frequency and characteristics of substandard housing in urban homes with young children and (2) explore the hypothesis that better housing quality is associated with a greater likelihood of having working smoke alarms and safe hot water temperatures.

METHODS:

A total 246 caregivers of children ages 0 to 7 years were recruited from a pediatric emergency department and a well-child clinic. In-home observations were completed by using 46 items from the Housing and Urban Development’s Housing Quality Standards.

RESULTS:

Virtually all homes (99%) failed the housing quality measure. Items with the highest failure rates were those related to heating and cooling; walls, ceilings, and floors; and sanitation and safety domains. One working smoke alarm was observed in 82% of the homes, 42% had 1 on every level, and 62% had safe hot water temperatures. For every increase of 1 item in the number of housing quality items passed, the odds of having any working smoke alarm increased by 10%, the odds of having 1 on every level by 18%, and the odds of having safe hot water temperatures by 8%.

CONCLUSIONS:

Many children may be at heightened risk for fire and scald burns by virtue of their home environment. Stronger collaboration between housing, health care, and injury prevention professionals is urgently needed to maximize opportunities to improve home safety.
Obstetrical and gynecological relevance of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Kálmán Judit , Bajor Judit , Gáll János , Harsányi László , Horváth Henrik Csaba , Kerékgyártó Olga , László Ádám , Novák János , Salamon Ágnes , Wacha Judit
Published: November 2012

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease may show a life long persistance, while female fertility is time-limited. Aim: The aim of the authors was to obtain more knowledge about the obstetrical-gynecological aspects of this disorder. Methods: The authors evaluated 100 patients with inflammatory bowel disease and 100 healthy women with a self-composed questionnaire. Results: Menarche occurred significantly earlier in patients than in controls (p = 0,03). Either the activity of the disease, or the therapy itself may initiate irregularities in the menstrual cycle. Patients used contraceptives less frequently than controls (p = 0,002), and the time from family-planning to conception was longer in patients. Symptoms of bowel disease during pregnancy were not as severe as before and after pregnancy (p<0,001). Excess weight had a beneficial effect on symptoms during pregnancy (p = 0,042) and on the frequency of complications. Preterm birth and low birth weight were more frequent in newborns of patients (p = 0,019). Conclusion: Pregnancy has positive effect on the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease in case gestation occurs in a stable period of the inflammatory bowel disease. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1832–1838.
Prevalence of periodontal disease in dogs and owners' level of awareness - a prospective clinical trial
Authors: Fernandes Natalia Alves , Borges Andréa Pacheco Batista , Reis Emily Correna Carlo , Sepúlveda Rodrigo Viana , Pontes Kelly Cristine de Sousa
Published: November 2012

Periodontal disease (PD) is widely known among veterinarians for its high prevalence and serious consequences to the dogs. The objective of this study was to assess the occurrence of PD in dogs that live in the micro-region of Viçosa, treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Viçosa (HVT - Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Viçosa), as well as to assess how aware of this disease dog owners are. In order to do so, all dogs treated at the HVT from March 10th, 2009 to November 30th, 2009, on alternate days, had their oral cavities examined. Medical history data, such as age, type of food, main complaint and owner consent, halitosis, presence of dental calculus, inflammation and gingival recession and tooth loss, were collected. A prevalence of 88.67% was found for PD in dogs referred to the HVT, and 2.67% were referred due to this disease. Of all the owners who participated in the study, 43.83% knew about periodontal disease and of these 17.46% made use of some type of prevention or treatment. Therefore, periodontal disease is highly prevalent and the owners are not aware of the disease. Thus, a dog owner clarification program on periodontal disease is needed in the area where HVT-UFV operates.
Influence of discount price announcements on consumer's behavior
Authors: Isabella Giuliana , Pozzani Alexandre Ierulo , Chen Vinicios Anlee , Gomes Murillo Buissa Perfi
Published: November 2012

The theoretical framework that underpins this research study is based on the Prospect Theory formulated by Kahneman and Tversky, and Thaler's Mental Accounting Theory. The research aims to evaluate the consumers' behavior when different patterns of discount are offered (in percentage and absolute value and for larger and smaller discounts). Two experiments were conducted to explore these patterns of behavior and the results that were obtained supported the view that the framing effect was a common occurrence. The patterns of choice of individuals in a sample were found to be different due to changes in the ways discounts were offered. This can be explained by the various ways of presenting discount rates that had an impact on the influence of purchase intentions, recommendations and quality perception.
Brazilian mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) fauna: I. Anopheles species from Porto Velho, Rondônia state, western Amazon, Brazil
Authors: Morais Sirlei Antunes , Urbinatti Paulo Roberto , Sallum Maria Anice Mureb , Kuniy Adriana Akemi , Moresco Gilberto Gilmar , Fernandes Aristides , Nagaki Sandra Sayuri , Natal Delsio
Published: November 2012

This study contributes to knowledge of Anopheles species, including vectors of Plasmodium from the western Brazilian Amazon in Porto Velho, Rondônia State. The sampling area has undergone substantial environmental changes as a consequence of agricultural and hydroelectric projects, which have caused intensive deforestation and favored habitats for some mosquito species. The purpose of this study was to diagnose the occurrence of anopheline species from collections in three locations along an electric-power transmission line. Each locality was sampled three times from 2010 to 2011. The principal adult mosquitoes captured in Shannon trap were Anopheles darlingi, An. triannulatus, An. nuneztovari l.s., An.gilesi and An. costai. In addition, larvae were collected in ground breeding sites for Anopheles braziliensis, An. triannulatus, An. darlingi, An. deaneorum, An. marajoara, An. peryassui, An. nuneztovari l.s. and An. oswaldoi-konderi. Anopheles darlingi was the most common mosquito in the region. We discuss Culicidae systematics, fauna distribution, and aspects of malaria in altered habitats of the western Amazon.
Characterization and use of swine deep bedding ashes in cementitious composites
Authors: Oliveira Débora C. G. de , Rodrigues Michelle S. , Santos Sérgio F. dos , Savastano Junior Holmer
Published: November 2012

The deep bedding is a swine alternative production, especially in the finishing phase, whose byproduct can be recycled, reducing the environmental impact. The objectives of this study were to characterize the ash coming from the controlled burning of the swine deep bedding (SDBA) based on rice husk, and to evaluate their performance in composites as a partial substitute for Portland cement (PC). To measure the differences between SDBA and rice husk ash (RHA) as a reference, we have characterized: particle size distribution, real specific density, x-ray diffraction, electrical conductivity, scanning electron microscopy, chemical analysis and loss on ignition. Samples were prepared for two experimental series: control, and another one with the partial replacement of 30% of SDBA in relation to the mass of the Portland cement. According to the results obtained for physical and mechanical characterization, the composites with SDBA can be used as a constructive element in the rural construction.
Soil sampling intensity and spatial distribution pattern of soils attributes and corn yield in no-tillage system
Authors: Rodrigues Marcos S. , Corá José E. , Fernandes Carolina
Published: November 2012

Taking into account that the sampling intensity of soil attributes is a determining factor for applying of concepts of precision agriculture, this study aims to determine the spatial distribution pattern of soil attributes and corn yield at four soil sampling intensities and verify how sampling intensity affects cause-effect relationship between soil attributes and corn yield. A 100-referenced point sample grid was imposed on the experimental site. Thus, each sampling cell encompassed an area of 45 m² and was composed of five 10-m long crop rows, where referenced points were considered the center of the cell. Samples were taken from at 0 to 0.1 m and 0.1 to 0.2 m depths. Soil chemical attributes and clay content were evaluated. Sampling intensities were established by initial 100-point sampling, resulting data sets of 100; 75; 50 and 25 points. The data were submitted to descriptive statistical and geostatistics analyses. The best sampling intensity to know the spatial distribution pattern was dependent on the soil attribute being studied. The attributes P and K+ content showed higher spatial variability; while the clay content, Ca2+, Mg2+ and base saturation values (V) showed lesser spatial variability. The spatial distribution pattern of clay content and V at the 100-point sampling were the ones which best explained the spatial distribution pattern of corn yield.
Anticoccidial efficacy of drinking water soluble diclazuril in the control of Eimeria acervulina oocysts on experimentally-infected broiler chickens
Authors: Assis R.C.L. , Cury M.C. , Luns F.D. , Assis R.L.
Published: November 2012

The experiment was carried out with 150 Cobb broiler chickens divided into 3 groups with 50 birds each. The groups of infected chickens orally received 1ml of inoculum containing 3x103 Eimeria acervulina sporulated oocysts at 12 days of age. Group 1 was kept as a positive control with infected non-medicated birds, group 2 was medicated with diclazuril (1%) with a dose of 1mL/4 L of drinking water for 2 successive days, 5 days after infection, while group 3 was kept as negative control with non-infected and non-medicated birds. Oocysts count per gram of feces, score of macroscopic intestinal lesions and weight gain were evaluated. The group treated with diclazuril showed significant and satisfactory improvement in the assessment criteria when compared to the infected non-medicated group. The results revealed more reduction in the total oocyst count and intestinal lesion score in the medicated than in the infected non-treated group. The results confirmed that (1%) liquid diclazuril is effective to control Eimeria infection.
Growth, body composition and hematology of juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) fed increasing levels of ractopamine
Authors: Bicudo A.J.A. , Sado R.Y. , Cyrino J.E.P.
Published: November 2012

The effects of four levels of dietary ractopamine (RAC) on growth, body composition and hematology of pacu, Piaractus mesopotamicus juveniles (103.6±3.3g) were studied. Fish were housed into 12 circular tanks of 1 m3 - 15 fish per tank - and fed for 60 days with practical diets supplemented with 0; 10; 20 or 40mg RAC per kg of diet, in a totally randomized design trial (n=3). Fish fed diets containing up to 40mg RAC/kg diet for 60 days did not have improved growth or body composition parameters. There were no significant differences in hematocrit, hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin. Plasma glucose and triglycerides were significantly smaller in fish fed with RAC; however no significant differences between RAC levels were detected. The inclusion of up to 40mg RAC/kg of diet did not improve growth and body composition, but influenced some hematological and biochemical parameters of juvenile pacu.
Composição do leite de vacas Holandesas em pastejo de azevém com a utilização do trevo branco como fonte proteica
Authors: Krolow R.H. , Silva M.A. , Paim N.R. , Medeiros R.B. , Gonzalez H.L.
Published: November 2012

Avaliou-se a composição do leite de animais em pastejo de azevém (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) alimentados com trevo branco (Trifolium repens L.) como substituição ao componente proteico da ração (farelo de soja), em porcentagens de proteína, lactose, sólidos totais e contagem de células somáticas. Utilizaram-se dois grupos com oito vacas da raça Holandesa, agrupados por produção, período de lactação e peso corporal, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso. Um grupo recebeu, diariamente, 3kg de suplemento energético subtraído de farelo de soja e teve acesso à pastagem de trevo branco por, aproximadamente, 2,5 horas (TB); o outro recebeu o mesmo suplemento, adicionado de quantidade de proteína equivalente ao consumo diário no tratamento anterior via trevo, na forma de farelo de soja (FS). Foram observadas diferenças significativas para teor de proteína e lactose, sendo os maiores valores encontrados de proteína em TB (3,02%) e de lactose em FS (4,64%). Para as demais variáveis não houve diferença, com valores de 10,40 e 10,39% de sólidos totais e 182,88 e 153,53 (x1000) células somáticas em TB e FS, respectivamente, mostrando que a utilização dessa fonte alternativa de proteína foi eficiente.
Caracterização fenotípica e genotípica de progênies de Euterpe oleracea coletados no Afuá-Pará nas condições do Amapá
Authors: Yokomizo Gilberto Ken-Iti , Queiroz José Antônio Leite de , Cavalcante Emanuel da Silva , Pinheiro Izaque de Nazaré , Silva Paulo André Rodrigues da , Mochiutti Silas
Published: November 2012

O fruto do açaizeiro (Euterpe oleracea) é uma das principais fontes alimentares nos Estados do Pará e Amapá, despertando interesse de consumo em outras regiões e países. Por esse motivo, foram avaliadas 75 progênies coletadas de diferentes populações oriundas do Afuá, Estado do Pará, cultivadas no Campo Experimental de Mazagão, Estado do Amapá, em relação a caracteres vegetativos que possam resultar em melhor desenvolvimento da planta e refletir em maiores produções. O delineamento adotado foi o de blocos ao acaso com duas repetições. Os resultados permitem concluir que existem diferenças entre as progênies para a quantidade de brotações, porém, ao atingir a maturidade há um processo natural em que essas diferenças são eliminadas nas plantas adultas, indicando haver maior variabilidade nas plantas jovens que nas adultas; a relação CVg/CVe e os valores de herdabilidade mostram que a seleção pode ser dificultada; as correlações confirmam que deve ser desenvolvido e realizado o manejo de perfilhos (jovens e rebentos), em decorrência da tendência de efeitos negativos destes sobre os demais caracteres; os valores estimados de correlações fenotípicas, genotípicas e residuais demonstram que os fatores ambientais contribuem para a variabilidade da espécie e a análise de agrupamento permitiu a formação de grupos dissimilares úteis para orientar futuros cruzamentos.
Propiedades físico-mecánicas de tableros terciados construidos con especies tropicales de plantaciones para uso estructural
Authors: Tenorio Carolina , Moya Roger , Camacho Diego
Published: November 2012

En Costa Rica, el concreto, el acero y los plásticos son los materiales más utilizados para construcción. Mientras que por otro lado la utilización de madera de plantaciones forestales se ha incrementado en los últimos años. Ante tal situación en el presente estudio, fueron determinadas las propiedades físicas y mecánicas de tableros terciados manufacturados con chapas de Gmelina arborea, Tectona grandis y Acacia mangium provenientes de plantaciones forestales para usos estructurales. Se analizaron tres tableros (plywood) de cada una de las especies, se realizó una caracterización general y se midieron sus principales propiedades físicas y mecánicas. Los resultados mostraron que los tableros producidos con árboles de T. grandis en general presentan propiedades físicas y de resistencia superiores a las de G. arborea y A. mangium. De acuerdo con las normas del Voluntary Products Standart PS 1-95 y PS 1-09 de los Estados Unidos, es posible producir tableros estructurales de grado 3 con G. arborea, y grado 2 estructural con T. grandis y A. mangium, los cuales pueden ser usados en la fabricación de elementos estructurales.
Validação de focos de calor utilizados no monitoramento orbital de queimadas por meio de imagens TM
Authors: Pereira Allan Arantes , Pereira José Aldo Alves , Morelli Fabiano , Barros Dalmo Arantes , Acerbi Jr. Fausto Weimar , Scolforo José Roberto Soares
Published: November 2012

Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de validar os focos de calor utilizados no monitoramento de queimadas. Para isso, mapearam-se as queimadas ocorridas em seis Unidades de Conservação, localizadas no norte do estado de Minas Gerais, no período de 03 de setembro a 05 de outubro de 2008, por meio da segmentação semiautomática de imagens LandSat 5 TM. Foram mapeadas 190 queimadas e averiguada sua detecção pelos satélites por meio dos focos de calor gerados operacionalmente pelo Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais - INPE. Também foram analisadas por classe de tamanho, a fim de verificar qual a influência do tamanho das queimadas na detecção. A análise da distância dos focos aos limites das queimadas foi feita por meio de faixas equidistantes ("buffers"), com incremento de 1,00 km em cada classe até o limite de 9,00 km. Das cicatrizes de queimadas analisadas, aproximadamente 26,00% foram detectadas, demonstrando limitações do sistema em detectar aquelas menores que 100,00 ha. Apesar dessa limitação, grande parte da área impactada foi detectada, perfazendo um total de acerto de aproximadamente 71,00%. Os resultados de erros de localização foram considerados satisfatórios, tendo em vista as limitações técnicas da resolução espacial dos sensores utilizados. Essas informações geram subsídios ao avanço tecnológico do monitoramento orbital.
Velocidade de ganho de peso e práticas alimentares no primeiro ano de vida em lactentes de baixo nível socioeconômico
Authors: Gonçalves Samira Carvalho , Louzada Maria Laura da Costa , Campafnolo Paula Dal Bó , Vitolo Márcia Regina
Published: November 2012

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a velocidade do ganho de peso e sua associação com as práticas alimentares no primeiro ano de vida em crianças de baixo nível socioeconômico. MÉTODOS: Utilizaram-se dados de peso e comprimento ao nascer obtidos dos registros hospitalares e as medidas antropométricas aferidas aos 6 e 12 meses para o cálculo do ganho de peso no primeiro e no segundo semestres de vida. Dados das práticas alimentares das crianças foram obtidos por meio de entrevistas com as mães aos 6 e 12 meses de idade das crianças. RESULTADOS: Avaliaram-se 328 crianças: 184 meninos e 144 meninas. As meninas apresentaram maior ganho de peso em relação ao padrão da Organização Mundial de Saúde nos primeiros 6 meses de vida (4.452kg versus 4.079kg, p=0,000). Dos 6 aos 12 meses, o ganho de peso das crianças avaliadas foi significativamente maior em comparação ao padrão da Organização Mundial de Saúde para os dois sexos (1.929kg versus 1.688kg, p=0,000 para os meninos e 1.900kg versus 1.618kg, p=0,001 para as meninas). As crianças do sexo masculino que receberam aleitamento materno exclusivo por período menor que quatro meses apresentaram maior ganho de peso entre 6 e 12 meses de idade em relação àquelas que receberam somente leite materno por período igual ou superior a quatro meses (M=2,077, DP=0,777 versus M=1,814, DP=0,669 p=0,02). CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo evidenciou que as crianças avaliadas apresentaram ganho de peso excessivo no primeiro ano de vida, e que o aleitamento materno exclusivo apresentou papel protetor.
A collagen membrane-based engineered heart tissue improves cardiac function in ischemic rat hearts
Authors: Sandri Monica , Rizzi Roberto , Schiattarella Gabriele G. , Levialdi Ghiron Jung Hee , Latronico Michael V.G. , Pironti Gianluigi , Chiariello Giovanni A. , Esposito Giovanni , Tampieri Anna , Condorelli Gianluigi
Published: November 2012

In the relatively new field of cardiac tissue engineering, different biomaterials, methods and techniques have been tested for cardiac repair, but we are still far from the achievement of a valid model that can be tested for therapeutic goals. In this study, the authors examined the efficacy of newly preformed membranes based on collagen type I for the transplantation of cardiac cells. The membrane prototype, cross-linked with 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDGE) and fibronectin-enriched, gave rise to spontaneously beating heart cell constructs, 5–9 days after seeding with neonatal rat cardiac cells. This membrane was grafted, with and without beating cardiac cells, onto the infarcted area of rat models of heart failure. Seriate echocardiography, performed on rats before transplantation and at 4 and 8 weeks after transplantation, demonstrated that rats treated with collagen membranes previously seeded with beating cells showed an improvement in cardiac function after 8 weeks. These results suggest that this new type of collagen membrane can be used as vector for the transplantation of beating heart cells for the regeneration of the injured myocardium and hence represents an important potential tool for cardiac tissue repair technologies.
Modeling Temperature Responses of Leaf Growth, Development, and Biomass in Maize with MAIZSIM
Authors: Kim Soo‐Hyung , Yang Yang , Timlin Dennis J. , Fleisher David H. , Dathe Annette , Reddy Vangimalla R. , Staver Kenneth
Published: November 2012

Mechanistic crop models capable of representing realistic temperature responses of key physiological processes are necessary for enhancing our ability to forecast crop yields and develop adaptive cropping solutions for achieving food security in a changing climate. Leaf growth and phenology are critical components of crop growth and yield that are sensitive to climate impacts. We developed a novel modeling approach that incorporates a set of nonlinear functions to augment traditional thermal time methods (e.g., growing degree days) for simulating temperature responses of leaf expansion and phenology in maize or corn (Zea mays L.). The resulting leaf expansion and phenology models have been implemented into a new crop model, MAIZSIM, that simulates crop growth based on key physiological and physical processes including C4 photosynthesis, canopy radiative transfer, C partitioning, water relations, and N dynamics for a maize plant. Coupled with a two‐dimensional soil process model, 2DSOIL, MAIZSIM was applied to simulate leaf growth, phenology, biomass partitioning, and overall growth of maize plants planted at two field sites on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and in Delaware for 3 yr of data. The model parameters were estimated using data from outdoor sunlit growth chambers and the literature. No calibration was performed using the field data. The MAIZSIM model simulated leaf area, leaf addition rate, leaf numbers, biomass partitioning and accumulation with reasonable accuracy. Our study provides a feasible method for integrating nonlinear temperature relationships into crop models that use traditional thermal time approaches without sacrificing their current structure for predicting the climate change impacts on crops.
Lentil Performance in Response to Weather, No‐Till Duration, and Nitrogen in Saskatchewan
Authors: Zakeri Hossein , Lafond Guy P. , Schoenau Jeff J. , Pahlavani M. Hadi , Vandenberg Albert , May William E. , Holzapfel Chris B. , Bueckert Rosalind A.
Published: November 2012

Increased soil N in no‐till (NT) systems can interfere with biological dinitrogen fixation (BNF), stimulate vegetative biomass, and affect harvest index (HI) and yield of lentil (Lens culinaris L.). In the black soils of Saskatchewan, the effects of short‐term (5–7 yr: ST) and long‐term (28–30 yr: LT) NT practices on lentil were investigated in two experiments from 2006 to 2008. One trial tested the effects of NT duration on plant N and yield of five cultivars; the second examined the response of a late‐maturing cultivar to NT duration at four rates of N fertilization. In both studies, average grain yield in 2006 and 2007 (warm seasons) was 21% greater than in 2008 (cool season), although total rainfall and plant N content was similar in 2007 and 2008. Average soil available N over the years was 23% greater in LT than ST, but the cultivars had 33% less N and 28% less yield in LT than ST in a dry year (2006), and similar performance in LT and ST in the wet years (2007 and 2008). The 60 kg N ha−1 treatment in the second trial diminished the yield difference between LT and ST in 2006. The only BNF measurement in 2008 showed that the cultivars fixed 10% less atmospheric N2 in LT than ST in this year. Overall, cool and wet growing conditions stimulate vegetative biomass and lower HI and yield of lentil, whereas a possible reduction of lentil BNF in NT systems is less likely to affect lentil yield.
Sensor‐Based Insecticide Spraying to Control Cereal Aphids and Preserve Lady Beetles
Authors: Dammer Karl‐Heinz , Adamek Rolf
Published: November 2012

Lady beetles (Coccinella septempunctata) are one of the most effective predators of aphids (Sitobion avenae). Therefore, the development of plant protection technologies that do not lead to their eradication within the field is necessary. With a sensor‐controlled field sprayer, which determined in real‐time the plant biomass of a heterogeneous winter wheat field and, based on these measurements, also controlled the amount of applied insecticide, a variable rate spraying program was implemented. The insecticide savings totaled 13.4% when compared to that of uniform spraying. An application of a high dosage led to a rapid die‐off of aphids. However, this same scenario did not occur in the areas that received a low dosage of insecticide. There, the aphids remained alive. It was observed that lady beetles colonized at first in these low dosage areas, where aphids were still present. Eventually 3 wk after insecticide application, aphids and lady beetles did not exist in the areas that received low insecticide dosages in the field. There, at this latter time the crop was mature. Now the aphids occurred in the high biomass areas, which were still green and not fully mature. The same scenario occurred for the lady beetles; as presence–absence sampling indicated that they followed their prey. The time‐dependent spatial variability of aphid and lady beetle occurrence were confirmed by GLIMMIX analysis which indicated a significant effect of the space–time interaction on their joint occurrence.
Growth and Yield Performance of Jerusalem Artichoke Clones in a Semiarid Region of China
Authors: Liu Zu Xin , Spiertz J.H.J. , Sha Jing , Xue Shuai , Xie Guang Hui
Published: November 2012

This study investigated biomass yield and growth characteristics of 26 Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) clones and assessed it as a bioenergy crop for a semiarid region of the Loess Plateau in China. Genotype, year, and genotype × year interaction contributed to differences in crop development, growth characteristics, and biomass yields (dry matter). Generally, biomass yields in 2011 were lower than in 2008, mainly due to a more severe soil moisture deficit in 2011. Shoot and tuber biomass yields (STBY) ranged from 18.9 to 35.0 Mg ha−1 in 2008 and from 16.1 to 24.8 Mg ha−1 in 2011. Clones HUB‐2 and BJ‐4 produced the highest shoot biomass yield (SBY), amounting to 31.3 and 25.6 Mg ha−1, respectively, in the wetter year but higher drought sensitivity. Clones HUN‐2, SD‐2, and SHH‐1 produced the second highest SBY, which varied between 14.3 and 20.1 Mg ha−1. Clones GZ‐1, HEN‐1, HUB‐1, IM‐1, and SX‐2 are recommended for tuber production and produced tuber yields >8 Mg ha−1 in both seasons. Clones SD‐2 and SHH‐1 exhibited drought sensitivity indices <1.00, indicating that they were less sensitive to drought combined with a good yield level. Biplot analysis showed that HUB‐2 and BJ‐4 were the best performers in STBY and SBY. A combination of physiological traits associated with high STBY and drought tolerance may be most promising for further selection in a breeding program. To make a full assessment under more extreme conditions, we recommend a multiyear experiment at similar locations.
Evaluation of Four Soil Conservation Practices in a Non‐Terraced Oil Palm Plantation
Authors: Moradi Abolfath , Boon Sung Christopher Teh , Joo Goh Kah , Mohd Hanif Ahmad Husni , Ishak Che Fauziah
Published: November 2012

In Malaysia, four soil conservation practices are often recommended for non‐terraced oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) plantations. These practices are oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB), Ecomat (a compressed EFB mat; ECO), and pruned oil palm fronds. These three oil palm residues are used as organic mulching materials. The fourth method is silt pits (SIL) which are soil trenches to collect nutrients from runoff water and later redistribute them back into the soil. Nonetheless, the relative effectiveness of these four methods in improving soil and oil palm properties have never been studied. A 3‐yr field experiment was consequently conducted to determine their relative effects on increasing soil chemical properties (pH, cation exchange capacity, organic C, total N, available P, and exchangeable K, Ca, and Mg) and oil palm nutrition levels (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg). Biomass decomposition rate and nutrients release rate in the field by the three mulching materials were also determined. Results showed that EFB mulching was significantly better than the other three soil conservation practices in improving nearly all of the measured soil and plant parameters. Empty fruit bunches was most effective partly because of the combined effects of higher amounts of dry matter added and the higher nutrient concentrations in the EFB than in other mulching materials. Silt pitting was found not to be as effective as EFB because SIL could only trap and return nutrients back into the soil, whereas EFB could do both: trap nutrients and release additional nutrients into the soil as it decomposes.