bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Down-regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome in gingival fibroblasts by subgingival biofilms: Involvement of Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Belibasakis Georgios N , Guggenheim Bernhard , Bostanci Nagihan
Published: April 2012

Recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns that activate IL-1β is regulated by inflammasomes, predominantly of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor (NLR) family. NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in the innate immune responses in periodontal disease. This is an inflammatory condition that destroys the tooth-supporting (periodontal) tissues, initiated by the subgingival formation of multi-species biofilms, frequently including the Gram-negative species Porphyromonas gingivalis. The aim of this study was to investigate the relative effect of P. gingivalis as part of subgingival biofilm, on the expressions of NLRP3 inflammasome, absent in melanoma (AIM)2 (a non-NLR inflammsome) and IL-1β by human gingival fibroblasts. The 10-species subgingival biofilm model, or its 9-species variant excluding P. gingivalis, were used to challenge the cells for 6 h. Gene expression analysis for various inflammasome components and IL-1β was performed by TaqMan real-time PCR. The 10-species subgingival biofilm reduced NLRP3 and IL-1β, but did not affect AIM2 expression. Exclusion of P. gingivalis from the biofilm partially rescued NLRP3 and IL-1β expressions. In conclusion, subgingival biofilms down-regulate NLRP3 and IL-1β expression, partly because of P. gingivalis. These dampened host innate immune responses may favour the survival and persistence of the associated biofilm species in the periodontal tissues.
Education as part of wider health policy and improvement strategies
Authors: Ellis Benjamin , Johnson Martin , Taylor Ann
Published: April 2012

Summary points

1. The majority of people living with persistent pain will receive treatment for the pain from non-specialists in pain management who may not have received the necessary training to deliver high-quality care.

2. There is now a wide range of learning platforms and packages available, but these may struggle to reach beyond those with a specialist interest. Addressing this will require action at both local and national levels to prioritise training in pain management.

3. Although education may improve knowledge, changing behaviour will require a wider change in clinical culture, including changing public and clinical attitudes and ensuring that the NHS recognises, prioritises and rewards high-quality pain management.
Abnormal Fetal Umbilical Cord Doppler? What Should I Do Next? A Case Study Demonstrating Corroboration of Umbilical Cord Doppler and Middle Cerebral Doppler
Authors: Morrissette Michelle M.
Published: April 2012

For the fetus at risk for intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), umbilical cord Doppler provides the clinician valuable information about fetal circulation. When the cord Doppler is abnormal, spectral analysis of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) gives additional information about perfusion to the fetal brain. This case report describes a 31-week gestational age fetus referred for a biophysical profile and umbilical cord Doppler because of an abnormal nonstress test.
Altitude illness is related to low hypoxic chemoresponse and low oxygenation during sleep
Authors: Nespoulet Hugo , Wuyam Bernard , Tamisier Renaud , Saunier Carole , Monneret Denis , Remy Judith , Chabre Olivier , Pépin Jean-Louis , Lévy Patrick
Published: April 2012

Altitude illness remains a major cause of mortality. Reduced chemosensitivity, irregular breathing leading to central apnoeas/hypopnoeas, and exaggerated pulmonary vasoconstriction may compromise oxygenation. All factors could enhance susceptibility to acute mountain sickness (AMS).

We compared 12 AMS-susceptible individuals with recurrent and severe symptoms (AMS+) with 12 “AMS-nonsusceptible” subjects (AMS-), assessing sleep-breathing disorders in simulated altitude as well as chemoresponsive and pulmonary vasoconstrictive responses to hypoxia.

During exposure to simulated altitude, mean blood oxygen saturation during sleep was lower in AMS+ subjects (81.6±2.6versus86.0±2.4%, p<0.01), associated with a lower central apnoea/hypopnoea index (18.2±18.1versus33.4±24.8 events·h−1in AMS+ and AMS- subjects, respectively; p=0.038). A lower hypoxic (isocapnic) chemoresponsiveness was observed in AMS+ subjects (0.40±0.49versus0.97±0.46 L·min−1·%; p<0.001). This represented the only significant and independent predictive factor for altitude intolerance, despite a higher increase in pulmonary artery systolic pressure in response to hypoxia, a lower lung diffusing capacity and a higher endothelin-1 level at baseline in AMS+ subjects (p<0.05). AMS+ subjects were more hypoxaemic whilst exhibiting fewer respiratory events during sleep owing to lower hypoxic (isocapnic) chemoresponsiveness.

In conclusion, the reduction in peripheral hypoxic chemosensitivity appears to be a major causative factor for altitude intolerance.
At 68 years, unrecognised sleep apnoea is associated with elevated ambulatory blood pressure
Authors: Roche Frédéric , Pépin Jean-Louis , Achour-Crawford Emilie , Tamisier Renaud , Pichot Vincent , Celle Sébastien , Maudoux Delphine , Chouchou Florian , Ntougou-Assoumou Hourfil G. , Lévy Patrick , Barthélémy Jean Claude
Published: April 2012

After the age of 65 yrs the specific impact of unrecognised sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD) on 24-h blood pressure (BP) levels remains under debate. We tested the cross-sectional relationship between the severity of obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea (OSAH) and the increase of BP using ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) in the PROOF (PROgnostic indicator OF cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events study)-SYNAPSE (Autonomic Nervous System Activity, Aging and Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea study) cohort.

470 subjects (aged 68 yrs) neither treated for hypertension nor diagnosed for SRBD were included. All subjects underwent ABPM, and unattended at-home polygraphic studies. OSAH was defined by an apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI) >15·h−1. The severity of the sleep apnoea was also quantified as the index of dips in oxyhaemoglobin saturation >3% (ODI). Results are expressed in per protocol analysis.

Severe OSAH (AHI >30·h−1, 17% of subjects) was associated with a significant 5 mmHg increase in both diurnal and nocturnal systolic BP (SBP), and with a nocturnal 3 mmHg increase in diastolic BP (DBP). Systolic (mean SBP >135 mmHg) or diastolic (mean DBP >80 mmHg) hypertension were more frequently encountered in subjects suffering from moderate (AHI 15–30) or severe OSAH. After adjustment, the independent association between severe OSAH and 24-h systolic hypertension remained significant (OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.1–5.4). The relationship was further reinforced when SRBD severity was expressed using ODI >10·h−1.

The impact of unrecognised SRBD on BP levels also exists at the age of 68 yrs. The hypoxaemic load appears to be the pathophysiological cornerstone for such a relationship.
Clinical and inflammatory determinants of bronchial hyperresponsiveness in COPD
Authors: van den Berge Maarten , Vonk Judith M. , Gosman Margot , Lapperre Thérèse S. , Snoeck-Stroband Jiska B. , Sterk Peter J. , Kunz Lisette I.Z. , Hiemstra Pieter S. , Timens Wim , ten Hacken Nick H.T. , Kerstjens Huib A.M. , Postma Dirkje S.
Published: April 2012

Bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) is regarded as a hallmark of asthma, yet it is also present in a considerable number of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Epidemiological studies have shown that BHR provides complementary information to forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) for development and progression of COPD. We hypothesised that the severity of BHR and its longitudinal changes associate with both clinical and airway inflammation measures in COPD.

Our hypothesis was tested in 114 COPD patients (median age 62.9 years, smoking exposure 45.9 pack-yrs) participating in the GLUCOLD (Groningen Leiden Universities Corticosteroids in Obstructive Lung Disease) study, which previously showed an improvement in BHR with fluticasone and fluticasone/salmeterol. At baseline, and 6 and 30 months after treatment, we investigated lung function, including body plethysmography, provocative concentration of methacholine causing a 20% fall in FEV1, sputum induction, and bronchial biopsies.

By performing both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses, we show that BHR in COPD is predominantly associated with residual volume/total lung capacity (a measure of air trapping) and airway inflammation reflected by the number of neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes in sputum and bronchial biopsies.

Our findings indicate that BHR is an independent trait in COPD and provides important information on phenotype heterogeneity and disease activity.
The role of mannose-binding lectin in pneumococcal infection
Authors: García-Laorden M. Isabel , Rodríguez de Castro Felipe , Solé-Violán Jordi , Payeras Antoni , Briones M. Luisa , Borderías Luis , Aspa Javier , Blanquer José , Rajas Olga , Marcos-Ramos J. Alberto , Herrera-Ramos Estefanía , García-Bello Miguel A. , Noda Judith , Ferrer José M. , Rello Jordi , Rodríguez-Gallego Carlos
Published: April 2012

The role of mannose-binding lectin (MBL) deficiency (MBL2;XA/OandO/Ogenotypes) in host defences remains controversial. The surfactant proteins (SP)-A1, -A2 and -D, other collectins whose genes are located nearMBL2, are part of the first-line lung defence against infection. We analysed the role of MBL on susceptibility to pneumococcal infection and the existence of linkage disequilibrium (LD) among the four genes.

We studied 348 patients with pneumococcal community-acquired pneumonia (P-CAP) and 2,110 controls. A meta-analysis ofMBL2genotypes in susceptibility to P-CAP and to invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) was also performed. The extent of LD ofMBL2withSFTPA1,SFTPA2andSFTPDwas analysed.

MBL2genotypes did not associate with either P-CAP or bacteraemic P-CAP in the case–control study. The MBL-deficientO/Ogenotype was significantly associated with higher risk of IPD in a meta-analysis, whereas the other MBL-deficient genotype (XA/O) showed a trend towards a protective role. We showed the existence of LD betweenMBL2and SP genes.

The data do not support a role of MBL deficiency on susceptibility to P-CAP or to IPD. LD amongMBL2and SP genes must be considered in studies on the role of MBL in infectious diseases.
Acetazolamide and chronic hypoxia: effects on haemorheology and pulmonary haemodynamics
Authors: Pichon Aurélien , Connes Philippe , Quidu Patricia , Marchant Dominique , Brunet Julien , Levy Bernard I. , Vilar José , Safeukui Innocent , Cymbalista Florence , Maignan Maxime , Richalet Jean-Paul , Favret Fabrice
Published: April 2012

We tested the effect of acetazolamide on blood mechanical properties and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) during chronic hypoxia.

Six groups of rats were either treated or not treated with acetazolamide (curative: treated after 10 days of hypoxic exposure; preventive: treated before hypoxic exposure with 40 mg·kg−1·day−1) and either exposed or not exposed to 3 weeks of hypoxia (at altitude >5,500 m). They were then used to assess the role of acetazolamide on pulmonary artery pressure, cardiac output, blood volume, haematological and haemorheological parameters.

Chronic hypoxia increased haematocrit, blood viscosity and PVR, and decreased cardiac output. Acetazolamide treatment in hypoxic rats decreased haematocrit (curative by -10% and preventive by -11%), PVR (curative by -36% and preventive by -49%) and right ventricular hypertrophy (preventive -20%), and increased cardiac output (curative by +60% and preventive by +115%). Blood viscosity was significantly decreased after curative acetazolamide treatment (-16%) and was correlated with PVR (r=0.87, p<0.05), suggesting that blood viscosity could influence pulmonary haemodynamics. The fall in pulmonary vascular hindrance (curative by -27% and preventive by -45%) after treatment suggests that acetazolamide could decrease pulmonary vessels remodelling under chronic hypoxia.

The effect of acetazolamide is multifactorial by acting on erythropoiesis, pulmonary circulation, haemorheological properties and cardiac output, and could represent a pertinent treatment of chronic mountain sickness.
Effectiveness of an inspiratory pressure-limited approach to mechanical ventilation in septic patients
Authors: Martin-Loeches Ignacio , de Haro Candelaria , Dellinger R. Phillip , Ferrer Ricard , Phillips Gary S. , Levy Mitchell M. , Artigas Antonio
Published: April 2012

Severe sepsis is one of the most common causes of acute lung injury (ALI) and is associated with high mortality. The aim of the study was to see whether a protective strategy based approach with a plateau pressure <30 cmH2O was associated with lower mortality in septic patients with ALI in the Surviving Sepsis Campaign international database.

A retrospective analysis of an international multicentric database of 15,022 septic patients from 165 intensive care units was used.

Septic patients with ALI and mechanical ventilation (n=1,738) had more accompanying organ dysfunction and a higher mortality rate (48.3%versus33.0%, p<0.001) than septic patients without ALI (n=13,284). In patients with ALI and mechanical ventilation, the use of inspiratory plateau pressures maintained at <30 cmH2O was associated with lower mortality by Chi-squared test (46.4%versus55.1%, p<0.001) and by Kaplan–Meier and log-rank test (p<0.001). In a multivariable random-effects Cox regression, plateau pressure <30 cmH2O was significantly associated with lower mortality (hazard ratio 0.84, 95% CI 0.72–0.99; p=0.038).

ALI in sepsis was associated with higher mortality, especially when an inspiratory pressure-limited mechanical ventilation approach was not implemented.
Vitamin K1 enhances sorafenib-induced growth inhibition and apoptosis of human malignant glioma cells by blocking the Raf/MEK/ERK pathway
Authors: Du Wei , Zhou Jing-ru , Wang Dong-liang , Gong Kai , Zhang Qing-jun
Published: April 2012

Background

The combined effects of anticancer drugs with nutritional factors against tumor cells have been reported previously. This study characterized the efficacy and possible mechanisms of the combination of sorafenib and vitamin K1 (VK1) on glioma cell lines.

Methods

We examined the effects of sorafenib, VK1 or their combination on the proliferation and apoptosis of human malignant glioma cell lines (BT325 and U251) by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry and 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) assay. The signaling pathway changes were detected by western blotting.

Results

Sorafenib, as a single agent, showed antitumor activity in a dose-dependent manner in glioma cells, but the effects were more pronounced when used in combination with VK1 treatment. Sorafenib in combination with VK1 treatment produced marked potentiation of growth inhibition and apoptosis, and reduced expression of phospho-mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) and phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Furthermore, the expression levels of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 were significantly reduced.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that VK1 enhanced the cytotoxicity effect of sorafenib through inhibiting the Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway in glioma cells, and suggested that sorafenib in combination with VK1 maybe a new therapeutic option for patients with gliomas.
Insecticide resistance in Culex quinquefasciatus from Zanzibar: implications for vector control programmes
Authors: Jones Christopher M , Machin Camille , Mohammed Khalfan , Majambere Silas , Ali Abdullah S , Khatib Bakari O , Mcha Juma , Ranson Hilary , Kelly-Hope Louise A
Published: April 2012

Background

Zanzibar has a long history of lymphatic filariasis (LF) caused by the filarial parasiteWuchereria bancrofti, and transmitted by the mosquitoCulex quinquefasciatusSay. The LF Programme in Zanzibar has successfully implemented mass drug administration (MDA) to interrupt transmission, and is now in the elimination phase. Monitoring infections in mosquitoes, and assessing the potential role of interventions such as vector control, is important in case the disease re-emerges as a public health problem. Here, we examineCulexmosquito species from the two main islands to detectW. bancroftiinfection and to determine levels of susceptibility to the insecticides used for vector control.

Methods

Culexmosquitoes collected during routine catches in Vitongoji, Pemba Island, and Makadara, Unguja Island were tested forW. bancroftiinfection using PCR. Insecticide bioassays onCulexmosquitoes were performed to determine susceptibility to permethrin, deltamethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, DDT and bendiocarb. Additional synergism assays with piperonyl butoxide (PBO) were used for lambda-cyhalothrin. Pyrosequencing was used to determine thekdrgenotype and sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (mtCOI) subunit performed to identify ambiguousCulexspecies.

Results

None of the wild-caughtCulexmosquitoes analysed were found to be positive forW. bancrofti. High frequencies of resistance to all insecticides were found in Wete, Pemba Island, whereasCulexfrom the nearby site of Tibirinzi (Pemba) and in Kilimani, Unguja Island remained relatively susceptible. Species identification confirmed that mosquitoes from Wete wereCulex quinquefasciatus. The majority of theCulexcollected from Tibirinzi and all from Kilimani could not be identified to species by molecular assays. Two alternativekdralleles, both resulting in a L1014F substitution were detected inCx. quinquefasciatusfrom Wete with no homozygote susceptible detected. Metabolic resistance to pyrethroids was also implicated by PBO synergism assays.

Conclusions

Results from the xenomonitoring are encouraging for the LF programme in Zanzibar. However, the high levels of pyrethroid resistance found in the principle LF vector in Pemba Island will need to be taken into consideration if vector control is to be implemented as part of the elimination programme.
Management of isolated non-traumatic renal artery dissection: report of four cases
Authors: Abdel-Kerim Amr , Cassagnes Lucie , Alfidja Agaicha , Gageanu Cristian , Favrolt Gregory , Dumousset Eric , Ravel Anne , Boyer Louis , Chabrot Pascal
Published: April 2012

Background

Isolated non-traumatic renal artery dissection (RAD) is a rare disorder with uncertain natural history. The management may be surgical reconstruction, endovascular repair, or conservative medical treatment, yet no official consensus had been established.

Purpose

To report the management of four cases of isolated non-traumatic RAD, emphasizing the beneficial role of conservative medical treatment.

Material and Methods

From the year 2000 till 2011, four male patients with mean age of 42.5 years (range 34–48 years) presented with isolated non-traumatic RAD and were initially treated with medical therapy. Transcatheter in situ thrombolysis was performed in a case with thrombotic occlusion.

Results

Isolated non-traumatic RAD in four patients involving at least seven branches progressed to thrombotic occlusion in two branches, luminal narrowing in five, dual lumens in two, and aneurysmal dilatation in three. Medical treatment was efficacious in three patients, who showed persistent preserved renal function, controlled blood pressure, and favorable arterial remodeling. After failure of medical therapy, the fourth patient was referred to surgery. Thrombolysis was successful to dissolute an occluding thrombotic dissection.

Conclusion

Conservative therapy is safe and effective when the renal artery is patent and blood pressure is controlled: we propose it as the first line of treatment, reserving interventional management for refractory cases.
Mucosal permeability is an intrinsic factor in susceptibility to dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in rats
Authors: Iwaya Hitoshi , Maeta Koushi , Hara Hiroshi , Ishizuka Satoshi
Published: April 2012

We investigated differences in the pathogenesis of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis between two inbred rat strains, Wistar King A Hokkaido (WKAH) and Dark Agouti (DA) rats, to determine the intrinsic factors responsible for the development of colitis. DSS exposure exacerbated the clinical symptoms such as body weight loss, stool consistency and rectal bleeding in DA rats rather than that in WKAH rats. Additionally, the average survival was shorter in DA rats than in WKAH rats. The expression levels of tumor necrosis factor- α, interleukin (IL)-12 p35 and IL-23 p19 increased prominently in the DA rats that were administered DSS, accompanied by severe infiltration of leukocytes into the colon. We also found that colonic permeability was greater in the DA rats than in the WKAH rats. In Ussing chambers, exposure of the isolated colon tissue to DSS enhanced the colonic permeability of both strains. Immunoblot analysis revealed that the expression levels of tight junction (TJ) proteins were modulated during DSS administration. Higher expression levels of claudin-4 and junctional adhesion molecule-A proteins were observed in DA rats than in WKAH rats, even in intact conditions. These results indicated that the expression pattern of TJ proteins determines the colonic permeability of the rats. In conclusion, the intrinsic colonic permeability is one of critical factors responsible for the susceptibility of rats to colitis.
The impact of commercial rodent diets on the induction of tumours and flat aberrant crypt foci in the intestine of multiple intestinal neoplasia mice
Authors: Svendsen Camilla , Alexander Jan , Paulsen Jan Erik , Knutsen Helle K , Hjertholm Hege , Brantsæter Anne Lise , Husøy Trine
Published: April 2012

A large variation in spontaneous tumour development in the multiple intestinal neoplasia (Min) mouse model between laboratories has been reported. The composition of the diet might be an important factor. We examined the impact of five commercial rodent diets: the natural ingredient breeding diet Harlan Teklad 2018 (HT), the purified breeding diet AIN93G, the natural ingredient maintenance diet RM1, and the purified maintenance diets AIN93M and AIN76A, on the spontaneous intestinal tumorigenesis in the Min mouse model. The Min mice were fed one of two breeding diets during gestation and until four weeks of age, thereafter one of the three maintenance diets. Min mice bred on the breeding diet HT had significantly higher numbers and incidences of tumours in the colon, but fewer tumours in the small intestine than the breeding diet AIN93G. The maintenance diet RM1 gave a significantly higher number of small intestinal and colonic tumours and precancerous lesions called flat aberrant crypt foci (ACF) compared with the maintenance diets AIN93M and AIN76A. These findings show the importance of defining the type of diet used in experimental intestinal carcinogenesis studies, and that the diet should be taken into consideration when comparing results from different studies with Min mice.
Tetanus – still a scourge in the 21st century: a paediatric hospital-based study in India
Authors: Mishra Kirtisudha , Basu Srikanta , Kumar Dipti , Dutta Ashok Kumar , Kumar Praveen , Rath Bimbadhar
Published: April 2012

Tetanus remains endemic in India. A retrospective hospital-based study was conducted to review the profile of all children admitted with diagnosis of tetanus between January 2009 and December 2010. A total of 140 cases of tetanus were admitted; 45 cases of neonatal tetanus (NT) and 77 cases of post-neonatal tetanus (PNT) were studied. Age of presentation of NT was 9.4 ± 1.2 days. Home-delivered children accounted for 86.7% of cases, with 77.8% being attended by untrained birth attendants. Unimmunized mothers accounted for 93.4%. In PNT, otogenic route of infection and trauma were present in 58.4% and 23.3% of cases, respectively. The rate of hospital admission of tetanus remains high. Unlike previously published reports, otogenic route is the most common mode of PNT infection in this study. Improving immunization, increasing deliveries by skilled birth attendants and prompt treatment of suppurative otitis media are the main areas in which public health initiatives need to be focused.
Ensaio de combate ao "ácaro da falsa ferrugem", Phyllocotruta oleivora (ASHM., 1879), com granulados no solo
Authors: Oliveira Filho J.C. , Carvalho J.C. , Tavares S. , Marconato J.R. , Fagan R. , Brunelli Júnior H.C. , Mariconi F.A.M.
Published: April 2012

Com o objetivo de combate ao ácaro da falsa ferrugem, Phyllocoptruta oleivova, foi realizado o presente trabalho, com a incorporação de granulados no solo. O pomar experimental era formado de laranjeiras Bahianinha", de 15 a 18 anos de idade. Os granulados foram aplicados no solo, em dois sulcos rasos, paralelos e opostos, sob a saia das plantas. Os granulados e as quantidades dos produtos comerciais, por planta, foram: A) etoprope G 10%, 80 g; B) carbossulfano G 5%, 80 g; C) isazofós G 10%, 70 g; D) carbossulfano G 5%, 50 g; E) fensulfotion G 5%, 400 g; F) fensulfotiom G 5%, 250g; G) testemunha. Foram realizadas, em laboratório, contagens aos 0, 22, 36, 50 e 88 dias. Os resultados foram completamente negativos.
Efeitos da uréia coberta com enxofre sobre a perda de nitrogênio por lixiviação em um latossol roxo
Authors: Chitolina José Carlos , Glória Nadir Almeida Da
Published: April 2012

Foi conduzido um experimento a fim de estudar, comparativamente, o efeito da uréia coberta com enxofre (SCU) e uréia não coberta sobre a perda de nitrogênio (N-NH+4 + N-NO-3) por lixiviaçao em um Latossol Roxo que ocorre sob vegetação de cerrado no Município de Botucatu, SP-Brasil, bem como a influência de doses destes fertilizantes e do pH do solo. Verificou-se que SCU reduziu as perdas de nitrogênio, através do processo de lixiação, apresentando lenta liberação do elemento. O efeito das doses refletiu-se nas perdas por lixiviaçao com uma maior perda para a dose mais elevada (120 kg n/ ha). Houve influência do pH ocorrendo maiores perdas de N para o valor mais elenado, ou seja, no pH 6,5, para ambos os tipos de uréia, verificando-se também que o pH não influiu na liberação do N retido no grânulo de SCU.
Dois ácaros associados à abelha (Apis mellifera L.) no Perú
Authors: Flechtmann Carlos H.W.
Published: April 2012

Larvas de Leptus sp. (Acari, Prostigmata, Erythraeidae) foram coletadas das membranas intersegmentares dos tergitos e esternitos abdominais de abelhas (Ápis mellifera L.) em Cerro de Pasco, Peru. Não foram relatados danos por este ectoparasito. Fêmeas de Blattisoeius dentriticus (Berlese, 1918) (Acari, Mesostigmata, Ascidae) foram coletadas de colméias de abelhas, junto com Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank, 1781) (Acari, Astigmata, Acaridae), em Lima, Peru.
Granulados sistêmicos no solo contra o "ácaro da falsa ferrugem", Phyllocoptruta oleivova (ASHM., 1879), em laranjeiras
Authors: Carvalho J.C. , Tavares S. , Marconato J.R. , Oliveira filho J.C. , Brunelli Júnior H.C. , Fagan R. , Mariconi F.A.M. , Miranda Filho J.B.
Published: April 2012

A fim de se combater experimentalmente o ácaro da falsa ferrugem usaram-se, no solo, cinco granulados sistêmicos (quatro deles em duas diferentes quantidades por laranjeira). Os melhores resultados foram conseguidos pelo aldicarbe à razão de 40g e 20g do granulado por laranjeira e pelo oxamil na quantidade de 80g. O fenamifós, carbofurano, isazofos, o oxamil (50 g por planta) não conduziram a resultados positivos, segundo as condições do trabalho experimental.
Polymorphic microsatellites of analysis in cultivars of taro
Authors: Nunes Raquel SC , Pinhati Fernanda R , Golinelli Luciana P , Rebouças Tiyoko Nair H , Paschoalin Vânia Margaret F , Silva Joab T da
Published: April 2012

Taro (Colocasia esculenta) is a tuberous plant belonging to the Araceae family whose tuber is the 14th most consumed food crop in the world. Characterized as an unconventional vegetable, taro is grown in Brazil as a subsistence crop, but in recent years began to gain commercial importance, especially in the states of Espirito Santo, Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro. To avoid loss of genetic diversity of the local varieties traditionally grown in Brazil a core collection for taro germplasm has been developed by the Instituto Capixaba de Pesquisa, Assistência Técnica e Extensão Rural do estado do Espirito Santo (Incaper). The aim of this study was to perform a molecular characterization of the seven regional core collections. Genetic diversity of the cultivars was investigated by using SSR (Simple Sequence Repeats) polymorphisms, in seven loci (Xuqtem55, Xuqtem73, Xuqtem84, Xuqtem88, Xuqtem91, Xuqtem97 and Xuqtem110). Genetic diversity of the cultivars, based on the seven microsatellite alleles, was evaluated by using the software GelCompar II, showed that the loci Xuqtem73, Xuqtem88 and Xuqtem110 were the most informative, featuring 7, 10 and 8 alleles, respectively, a percentage of cultivars with polymorphic alleles of 85, 57 and 100% and identical PIC of 0.91. Based on Xuqtem110 locus analysis, the seven cultivars were grouped in two clusters. Chinês Regional Incaper cultivar was originated from Chinês cultivar which originated the São Bento cultivar, corroborating previous results. Macaquinho and Chinês cultivars were shown to be the primitive ones originating the allelic collections found in the states of Mato Grosso do Sul and Espirito Santo.
Accumulation of nutrients in sweet peppers cultivated in coconut fiber
Authors: Charlo Hamilton César de O , Oliveira Sueyde F de , Vargas Pablo F , Castoldi Renata , Barbosa José Carlos , Braz Leila T
Published: April 2012

The production of sweet peppers in greenhouse has been severely affected by soil pathogens. With this, producers are adopting new cultivation techniques, such as cultivation in substrates, but information about this type of cultivation are still scarce. The aim of the present work was to evaluate nutrient accumulation in sweet peppers cultivated in coconut fiber with fertirrigation in greenhouse. Initially, 160 plants (Eppo cultivar) were divided into four blocks, where two plants per block were analyzed every 21 days after transplanting. The sweet peppers were cultivated in plastic pots of 13 L, containing coconut fiber, and placed in double rows with spacing of 0.5 x 0.8 m between single rows and 1.10 m between double rows. The commercial production of the mature fruits was estimated to be 97.3 t ha -1, where all the production was classified as Extra (maximum quality). The accumulation of the various determined nutrients were: 8.22 g plant -1 of N, 1.14 g plant -1 of P, 7.84 g plant -1 of K, 3.25 g plant -1 of Ca, 1.34 g plant -1 of Mg, 2.24 g plant -1 of S, 16.65 mg plant -1 of B, 3.36 mg plant -1 of Cu, 45.98 mg plant -1 of Fe, 34.78 mg plant -1 of Mn and 22.28 mg plant -1 of Zn.
Asexual propagation of peach palm by division of the clump and extraction of the off-shoots
Authors: Flores Wanders BC , Yuyama Kaoru , Silva Raimundo G da
Published: April 2012

The peach palm (Bactris gasipaes) is a native Amazonian palm tree that produces fruits and palm hearts, and is now attracting the interest of the farmers in other parts of Brazil given the economical potential of palm heart production. Traditionally the peach palm is propagated by seeds, which yield segregating progenies due to cross-pollination. To guarantee the uniformity and quality of elite selections, the alternative is the propagation of superior genotypes from off-shoots (tillers), because an efficient in vitro cultivation protocol does not exist. The objective of the present study was the development of a more appropriate technique of vegetative propagation by division of the clump, in order to multiply plants selected in the improvement program. A peach palm clump contains between 2 and 20 off-shoots after cutting for palm heart; these can be separated one from the other with iron wedges, and extracted immediately or left for recovery for subsequent extraction. The experimental design was randomized blocks with three replications, using a 3x5 factorial, where the factors were: height of the off-shoots (<30, 30-60, >60 cm) and recovery time after the separation of the off-shoots from the clump (0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days). The off-shoots between 30 and 60 cm and left around a month of recovery in the field after separation from the clump presented 65% of survival, while those left around four months presented 80% of survival.
Anastrepha species (Diptera: Tephritidae), their hosts and parasitoids in the extreme north of Brazil
Authors: Marsaro Júnior Alberto Luiz , Adaime Ricardo , Ronchi-Teles Beatriz , Lima Camila Ribeiro , Pereira Paulo Roberto Valle da Silva
Published: April 2012

This work was carried out in five municipalities of the State of Roraima, Brazil, aiming to record the occurrence of Anastrepha species, their host plants and parasitoids. Fleshy fruits of 21 species of 10 families were sampled from September/2007 to September/2008. We collected 10 species of Anastrepha (Anastrepha bahiensis Lima and Anastrepha montei Lima were reported for the first time in Roraima) and five species of parasitoids (4 Braconidae and 1 Figitidae). Doryctobracon areolatus (Szépligeti) was the most abundant parasitoid.
Observation of predation of the giant fishing spider Ancylometes rufus (Walckenaer, 1837) (Araneae, Ctenidae) on Dendropsophus melanargyreus Cope, 1877 (Anura, Hylidae)
Authors: Moura Mário Ribeiro , Azevedo Leonardo Pimenta
Published: April 2012

We report here an observation of predation of the giant spider Ancylometes rufus on the tree frog Dendropsophus melanargyreus in a southern region of Amazonia Forest. We also reviewed the available literature on predation of this spider species on vertebrates.
Systematics of the Jaguar catfish genus Liosomadoras Fowler, 1940 (Auchenipteridae: Siluriformes)
Authors: Birindelli José L. O. , Zuanon Jansen
Published: April 2012

Liosomadoras Fowler, 1940 includes two nominal species: L. oncinus, described from the rio Negro in Brazil, and L. morrowi described from the Peruvian Amazon. Both species are known from only few specimens deposited in fish collections, and information on these fishes is scarce. In order to rectify this situation, diagnoses of the genus and its species and an osteological description of L. oncinus are presented based on recently collected specimens. In addition, the taxonomy of the species of Liosomadoras is reviewed, and L. morrowi is confirmed as distinct from L. oncinus, and also distributed in the Brazilian Amazon. Liosomadoras is hypothesized as a relatively basal genus within Auchenipterinae, sister to all other species of the group, except Asterophysus batrachus and Tocantinsia piresi.
A new species of Anchoviella Fowler, 1911 (Clupeiformes: Engraulidae) from the Amazon basin, Brazil
Authors: Loeb Marina V.
Published: April 2012

Anchoviella juruasanga is described from the drainages of rios Negro, Madeira, Tapajós, Trombetas, Tocantins, and Jari, in the Amazon basin, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by having a short upper jaw, with its posterior tip extending between the verticals through anterior and posterior margins of the pupil (vs. posterior tip of upper jaw extending beyond the vertical through posterior margin of the pupil). Anchoviella juruasanga is also distinct from other strictly freshwater Amazonian species of the genus by the distance from tip of snout to posterior end of upper jaw between 8 and 11% in standard length (vs. 14% or more in A. alleni, A. carrikeri, A. guianensis, and A. jamesi). The anal-fin origin slightly posterior to or at the vertical through the base of the last dorsal-fin ray further distinguishes the new species from A. alleni (anal-fin origin posterior to the vertical through the last anal-fin ray by at least 14% of head length) and A. jamesi (anal-fin origin anterior to the vertical through the last anal-fin ray). An identification key for the Amazonian species of Anchoviella, including marine and estuarine species known to occur in the lower portion of the basin, is presented.
Color pattern variation in Cichla temensis (Perciformes: Cichlidae): resolution based on morphological, molecular, and reproductive data
Authors: Reiss Paul , Able Kenneth W. , Nunes Mario S. , Hrbek Tomas
Published: April 2012

Morphological variants of Cichla temensis, readily differentiated by their striking color pattern differences, are found in several Amazon basin flood pulse river systems. The adult variants have at times been thought to represent different species or sexual dimorphism. A three part study was performed in two regions in Brazil (rio Igapó Açú and rio Caures) to elucidate the nature of the variants. In part one; selected diagnostic morphometric characters were compared intraspecifically among the variants and interspecifically with C. monoculus and C. orinocensis. All of the C. temensis variants were found to differ significantly from their sympatric congeners while not differing among each other. In part two, mitochondrial DNA samples were compared intraspecifically among the variants and interspecifically with their sympatric congeners. There were no diagnostic molecular synapomorphies that would unambiguously distinguish the variants and all C. temensis variants were clearly diagnosable and divergent from their sympatric congeners. In part three, color pattern variation in both sexes was compared to a gonadosomatic index (GSI). A significant correlation between color pattern variation and gonadosomatic index was found. The results of this study demonstrate that Cichla temensis variants are confirmed to be members of a single species and that the variation does not represent a sexual dimorphism. The color pattern variation is a cyclically occurring secondary sexual characteristic and is indicative of the specific degree of an individual's seasonal sexual maturation.
Phylogeography and conservation genetics of the Amazonian freshwater stingray Paratrygon aiereba Müller & Henle, 1841 (Chondrichthyes: Potamotrygonidae)
Authors: Frederico Renata G. , Farias Izeni P. , Araújo Maria Lúcia Góes de , Charvet-Almeida Patricia , Alves-Gomes José A.
Published: April 2012

The family Potamotrygonidae is monophyletic comprising three genera: Paratrygon Duméril, Potamotrygon Garman and Plesiotrygon Rosa, Castello & Thorson. The distribution of most species in this family is restricted to a single basin or fluvial system. Only Potamotrygon motoro, Potamotrygon orbignyi and Paratrygon aiereba are found in more than one river basin. In this study we investigate genetic structuring of Paratrygon aiereba, from five rivers of the Amazon region: Negro, Solimões-Amazon-Estuary system, Tapajós, Xingu and Araguaia. Sixty-three individuals were sequenced for ATPase 6, and a representative subsample of 27 individuals was sequenced for COI. The COI dataset analysis indicated that Paratrygon is sister to all other potamotrygonid genera and species. Population parameters inferred from the analysis of ATPase 6 sequences revealed that the populations of this species are structured within each river, with no or nearly non-existent gene flow occurring between rivers and a positive correlation between geographic and genetic distances. Paratrygon aiereba is comprised of three geographically restricted clades with K2P interclade distances of at least 2%. Intraspecific divergence within P. aiereba is similar to the interspecific divergence observed in Potamotrygon spp. sampled throughout the same geographic area. Using the premises of COI barcoding and the allopatric distribution of the three P. aiereba clades, the taxon P. aiereba most likely comprises three distinct biological species. Since freshwater stingrays of the family Potamotrygonidae are highly exploited for the aquarium trade, management and conservation strategies need to be implemented at the level of each river basin, rather than at the level of the Amazon basin.
Spatial patterns of diversity at local and regional scales in a tropical lagoon
Authors: Caballero-Vázquez José Adán , Vega-Cendejas María Eugenia
Published: April 2012

The present study reports estimates of alpha (α), beta (β) and gamma (Γ) diversity for the fish community of Chacmochuch Lagoon (SE Mexico), a natural protected area located in the northern portion of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Fish specimens were sampled in 2004 and 2006. Field work was carried out at three climatic peaks: at 13 stations using a 70 m-long beach seine. The collected data were supplemented with information obtained from a previous work conducted in 2002 and were then analyzed with multivariate statistical methods. In addition, fish composition results from this study were compared to those reported for other similar ecosystems of the region. A total of 68 fish species were recorded, determined as peripheral (high-salinity species, usually marine affinity) most of them. Most of the fish species collected were determined as rare, and a few number of species were determined as common and dominant. Salinity, TSD, temperature, dissolved oxygen and other variables were measured to determine the influence over the fish communities, four groups of sites where determined. Results indicated a gradual decrease in the degree of species replacement towards the interior of the system (away from the coast). The estimated value of gamma diversity was high compared to that reported for other coastal systems of the region and, due to the high degree of habitat heterogeneity found in this system; beta diversity had a greater contribution to gamma diversity than alpha diversity. This lagoon acts as a nursing area for many of the fish species collected in this study as indicated by the presence of juvenile stages.
Fishermen's local ecological knowledge on Southeastern Brazilian coastal fishes: contributions to research, conservation, and management
Authors: Silvano Renato A. M. , Begossi Alpina
Published: April 2012

We analyzed fishermen's local ecological knowledge (LEK) about the feeding habits, trophic interactions, habitats, fishing grounds, migration, and reproduction of nine coastal fishes in Búzios Island, southeastern Brazilian coast. We interviewed 39 fishermen using standardized questionnaires. Fishermen's LEK on habitat use and trophic interactions for the studied fishes agreed with the scientific literature, allowing the organization of reef and pelagic food webs. The interviewed fishermen mentioned that submerged rock formations would be important habitats for some large commercial fishes, such as Seriola spp., Caranx latus and Epinephelus marginatus. In some instances there was no scientific data to be compared with fishermen's LEK, and thus this kind of knowledge would be the only available source of information, such as for reproduction and migration of most of the studied fishes. We suggest herein ways to apply fishermen's LEK to develop and improve fisheries management measures, such as zoning of marine space, marine protected areas, and closed fishing seasons. Fishermen's LEK may be an important and feasible support to fisheries management and co-management.
O futebol na construção da identidade nacional: uma análise sobre os jogos "pretos x brancos"
Authors: Abrahão Bruno Otávio de Lacerda , Soares Antonio Jorge Gonçalves
Published: April 2012

Este artigo objetiva compreender os significados de uma partida de futebol entre jogadores autodeclarados pretos e brancos que ocorreram em São Paulo, no dia 13 de Maio, data comemorativa do fim da escravidão: o jogo "Preto x Branco". Para tanto, concentramo-nos nas matérias jornalísticas publicadas pelos principais periódicos de São Paulo entre os dias 10 a 15 de Maio entre 1927 até 1939, período de realização dos jogos. Além dos jornais, foi visitado o museu da Federação Paulista de Futebol que disponibilizou as informações necessárias para entendermos a trajetória desses jogos. Concluímos que a idealização de uma partida dessa natureza no dia "13 de maio" teria como função, além de prevenir do esquecimento e manter viva a lembrança da escravidão, reforçar a imagem de um país que era tomado como um modelo a ser seguido no que diz respeito ao tema étnico-racial.
A educação física escolar e o projeto político pedagógico: um processo de construção coletiva a partir da pesquisa-ação
Authors: Venâncio Luciana , Darido Suraya Cristina
Published: April 2012

O propósito deste trabalho é apresentar o entendimento que um grupo de professoras de Educação Física que trabalham no Ensino Fundamental na rede municipal de São Paulo tem a respeito do significado do Projeto Político Pedagógico (PPP) no cotidiano escolar. Além disso, tentamos fornecer subsídios para a elaboração e implementação de um PPP e apontar os limites e possibilidades da ação coletiva no contexto escolar. Nesta pesquisa de característica qualitativa foi utilizado o referencial metodológico do tipo pesquisa-ação. Foi feita análise de trabalhos que abordam a temática em questão para elaborar as categorias e encaminhar uma discussão criteriosa à luz do referencial selecionado. Os resultados indicaram que é necessário ressignificar o entendimento da função e papel da escola, da Educação Física enquanto componente curricular e também dos demais componentes curriculares. Destaca-se que é urgente repensar e organizar o espaço escolar a partir de uma perspectiva pedagógica, política e coletiva, para que as ações possam ter sentido e significado para os alunos e professores. Os currículos das instituições formadoras também foram mencionados como importantes para compreender o propósito do trabalho coletivo. O PPP pode constituir-se como um legítimo instrumento para participação e envolvimento político e pedagógico dos professores de Educação Física e nortear ações coletivas no cotidiano escolar.
O conhecimento tático produto de métodos de ensino combinados e aplicados em sequências inversas no voleibol
Authors: Lima Cláudio Olivio Vilela , Matias Cristino Julio Alves da Silva , Greco Pablo Juan
Published: April 2012

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar as diferenças entre os métodos de ensino situacional e tradicional no desenvolvimento do conhecimento tático declarativo e processual nas sessões de treinamento de voleibol, bem como observar a inﬂuência da ordem de aplicação desses métodos no conhecimento tático. A amostra foi composta por 36 estudantes (sexo masculino - faixa etária de 12 a 14 anos), sendo 22 destes inscritos nas equipes escolares de voleibol e 14 não praticantes de voleibol (grupo controle). Um grupo iniciou o processo de ensino-aprendizagem-treinamento pelo método situacional (GST) e outro pelo método tradicional (GTS). Ao final de 15 sessões o método foi invertido e realizado o mesmo número de sessões. Para confirmar a execução do método de ensino foi empregada a observação e categorização dos treinos (STEFANELLO, 1999). Para a avaliação do conhecimento processual foi utilizado o teste KORA (MEMMERT, 2002), no parâmetro tático reconhecer espaços. Já no declarativo usou-se o teste de Conhecimento Tático em Situação de Ataque de Rede (PAULA, 2000). Os três grupos no pré-teste demonstram estar inicialmente no mesmo patamar de conhecimento tático declarativo e processual. No GST, ao se aplicar o método situacional (referente às 15 sessões iniciais), não houve diferença significativa no conhecimento tático declarativo, mas houve no processual convergente e divergente. Já no GTS, ao empregar o método tradicional, não se confirmou o desenvolvimento de nenhum dos conhecimentos táticos. Ao efetuar a inversão do método de ensino, no GST (30 sessões na sequência situacional-tradicional) foi apurada melhoria significativa de ambos os conhecimentos táticos processuais. Entretanto, o mesmo não ocorreu no GTS na sequência tradicional-situacional. Os resultados indicam que a sequência de treinamentos referentes ao GST proporcionou melhoras relevantes na inteligência e na criatividade tática dos jogadores.