bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Produtividade de duas cultivares de mamona submetidas a diferentes lâminas de irrigação suplementar
Authors: Biscaro Guilherme A. , Vaz Marcos A. B. , Giacon Graziane M. , Gomes Eder P. , Silva Silvana B. da , Motomiya Anamari V. de A.
Published: August 2012

Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a produtividade de grãos, os componentes da produção e a quantidade de óleo produzida por duas cultivares de mamona, irrigadas por gotejamento e submetidas a diferentes lâminas de água. O experimento foi conduzido no ano agrícola de 2009, em um Latossolo Vermelho distroférrico, textura argilosa, em área experimental no município de Dourados, MS. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, no esquema fatorial, com cinco lâminas de água (0, 25, 50, 100 e 150% da evapotranspiração para irrigação localizada) em duas cultivares de mamona (IAC 2028 e IAC 80), com quatro repetições. O turno de rega foi predeterminado em duas irrigações semanais, excetuando-se os dias em que ocorreu precipitação pluviométrica. O aumento das lâminas de irrigação proporcionou incremento significativo da maioria dos componentes da produção e da produtividade da cultura sem, no entanto, alterar o teor de óleo contido nas sementes. A aplicação da maior lâmina de água aumentou em 80% a produtividade em relação ao tratamento que não recebeu irrigação suplementar.
Manejo de irrigação para o feijão-de-metro, nas fases vegetativa e produtiva, em ambiente protegido
Authors: Silva Wellington G. da , Carvalho Jacinto de A. , Oliveira Eduardo C. , Rezende Fátima C. , Lima Junior Joaquim A. de , Rios Gervásio F. A.
Published: August 2012

O manejo adequado da irrigação é uma prática agrícola que requer informações para cada cultura explorada, em particular nas fases fenológicas do ciclo produtivo pois muitas espécies possuem períodos críticos durante os quais o estresse hídrico causa sérias reduções na produção. Este trabalho teve, como objetivo, avaliar o efeito de cinco níveis de potencial matricial de água no solo sobre o crescimento e produção do feijão-de-metro. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, na área experimental pertencente ao Departamento de Engenharia da Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 5 x 2, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de cinco potenciais matriciais de água no solo como indicativos do momento de irrigar (-15, -35, -55, -75 e -95 kPa), em duas fases fenológicas (vegetativa e produtiva), monitorados por sensores instalados a 0,15 m de profundidade. Os resultados permitiram concluir que a fase mais sensível ao déficit hídrico foi a produtiva e que a irrigação realizada no potencial matricial em torno de -15 kPa induziu a melhor resposta da cultura quanto ao desenvolvimento, produção e qualidade das vagens.
Zoneamento agroclimático para a cultura do pinhão-manso no estado de Pernambuco
Authors: Possas José M. C. , Correa Marcus M. , Moura Geber B. de A. , Lopes Pabrício M. O. , Caldas Anildo M. , Fontes Júnior Robertson V. de P.
Published: August 2012

Propõe-se, com o presente trabalho, realizar o zoneamento agroclimático da cultura do pinhão-manso (Jathopra curcas L.) no estado de Pernambuco, motivo pelo qual foram utilizados dados climáticos de temperatura do ar média e precipitação pluviométrica de 146 postos meteorológicos, dos quais 73 com série histórica de dados acima de 30 anos e outros 73 com série abaixo de 30 anos porém maior que 20 anos de observações. A escolha do pinhão-manso foi motivada pelo potencial desta cultura como fonte de energia renovável em substituição aos combustíveis fósseis, tanto quanto pela sua rusticidade, tornando-se uma nova opção para regiões de clima semiárido, como ocorre em grande parte da região Nordeste. A seleção da região de estudo está relacionada à variabilidade climática apresentada por esse estado e ao potencial que a referida cultura tem em se desenvolver em regiões nas quais a chuva é escassa. De acordo com o estudo, o Estado de Pernambuco apresenta 14,92% de áreas aptas ao cultivo do pinhão-manso, 44,26% de áreas restritas por deficiência hídrica e 40,82% de áreas inaptas.
Desintensificação do uso da terra e sua relação com a erosão do solo
Authors: ten Caten Alexandre , Minella Jean P. G. , Madruga Pedro R. de A.
Published: August 2012

A conservação dos recursos naturais tais como solo e água, deve ser preocupação de governos e instituições. Processos erosivos são responsáveis pela degradação desses recursos, em várias partes do globo. Objetivou-se, com este estudo, avaliar a dinâmica da cobertura da terra em uma região de topografia complexa e empregar a equação universal de perda de solos modificada (RUSLE) para quantificar a perda de solos em decorrência da erosão. O uso da terra no distrito de Vale Vêneto, município de São João do Polêsine na região central do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, foi avaliado em imagens Landsat nos anos de 1988, 2000 e 2007. A análise espaço temporal do uso da terra indica que as áreas de floresta tiveram um aumento de 16,2% no período de 19 anos. As áreas de agricultura sofreram uma diminuição de 57,5%, no mesmo período. A erosão bruta específica sofreu uma redução de 44%, de 1988 a 2007. Verificou-se que a desintensificação do uso da terra leva a uma configuração mais favorável de conservação do solo e mitigação da erosão. É provável que as mudanças ocorridas no uso da terra estejam relacionadas à não reprodução das famílias rurais que, anteriormente, cultivavam áreas impróprias para a atividade agrícola nesta região.
Termorregulação e desempenho de tourinhos Sindi e Guzerá, no agreste paraibano
Authors: Furtado Dermeval A. , Peixoto Adriana P. , Regis Jonh E. F. , Nascimento José W. B. do , Araujo Tiago G. P. , Lisboa Ana C. C.
Published: August 2012

Neste trabalho objetivou-se avaliar os índices bioclimáticos que influenciam as varáveis fisiológicas, desempenho e consumo de nutrientes de tourinhos das raças Gir e Guzerá. O estudo foi realizado na Estação Experimental de Alagoinha/EMEPA-PB, no município de Alagoinha, no agreste paraibano, Brasil, utilizando-se 16 tourinhos das raças Sindi e Guzerá (8 animais de cada raça), com média de 31,5 ± 1,5 meses de idade, mantidos confinados. O delineamento estatístico utilizado foi o de blocos inteiramente casualizados, com 8 repetições, em parcelas subdivididas, com raça na parcela principal e horários (6, 12 e 16 h) na subparcela. A temperatura retal, frequência respiratória e temperatura superficial dos animais se mantiveram dentro da faixa considerada normal para a espécie bovina. Não houve influência negativa no consumo de nutrientes e os animais tiveram um desempenho em ganho de peso acima do esperado, demonstrando que estão adaptados às condições de Nordeste brasileiro, já que não houve alterações em seus parâmetros fisiológicos, considerados dentro da faixa normal e ainda apresentaram excelente desempenho produtivo e de consumo de nutrientes.
Influência da adequação postural em cadeira de rodas na função respiratória de pacientes com distrofia muscular de Duchenne
Authors: Rodini Carolina Oliveira , Collange Luanda André , Juliano Yara , Oliveira Claudia Santos , Isola Alexandre Marini , Almeida Sabrina Bauléo , Misao Maria Harue
Published: August 2012

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência da adequação postural em cadeira de rodas na função respiratória de pacientes com distrofia muscular de Duchenne (DMD). Participaram 12 pacientes com diagnóstico de DMD e que possuíam cadeira de rodas adaptada com idade variando de 10 a 22 anos. Cada indivíduo foi avaliado na própria cadeira de rodas e em uma cadeira de rodas padrão, ou seja, sem reclinação ou tilt. As cadeiras dos participantes possuíam adaptações no encosto e no assento, confeccionados de acordo com as especificidades de cada paciente. A avaliação consistiu em mensurar o volume minuto (VM), volume corrente (VC), capacidade vital forçada (CVF), pressões inspiratória (PImax) e expiratória (PEmax) máximas e pico de fluxo expiratório (PFE). Para análise dos dados, foi utilizado o teste t pareado, adotando-se o nível de significância de 0,05. As adaptações resultaram em melhores valores estatisticamente significativos de todos os parâmetros respiratórios: VM (8.963,3 e 10.762,5 mL/min; p=0,028), VC (319,1 e 433,6 mL; p=0,005), CVF (1.476,3 e 1.850 mL; p=0,005), PImax (-41,2 e -51,2 cmH2O; p=0,022), PEmax (29,6 e 36,7 cmH2O; p=0,004) e PFE (162,1 e 185 L/min; p=0,018). Nossos resultados sugerem que a adequação postural em cadeira de rodas influenciou positivamente a função respiratória de pacientes com DMD.
Análise da postura craniocervical de crianças respiradoras bucais após tratamento postural em bola suíça
Authors: Weber Priscila , Corrêa Eliane Castilhos Rodrigues , Ferreira Fabiana dos Santos , Milanesi Jovana de Moura , Trevisan Maria Elaine
Published: August 2012

O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a postura craniocervical de crianças respiradoras bucais após tratamento postural em bola suíça. Doze crianças respiradoras bucais foram submetidas a um protocolo de reeducação postural constituído por exercícios de alongamento e fortalecimento muscular sobre a bola suíça, estimulação diafragmática e alongamento dos músculos acessórios da inspiração. A postura craniocervical foi avaliada através da análise biofotogramétrica. A posição da anteriorização da cabeça foi aferida por meio do ângulo formado pelos pontos localizados no tragus direito e no processo espinhoso da sétima vértebra cervical com a linha horizontal. A curvatura cervical foi avaliada pela distância horizontal de uma linha vertical tangenciando o ápice da cifose torácica e o ponto de maior concavidade da curvatura cervical. As fotografias foram obtidas antes e após dez atendimentos. A normalidade das variáveis foi verificada a partir do teste Shapiro-Wilk. Para as comparações entre as médias foi utilizado o teste t de Student para amostras dependentes admitindo-se nível de significância de 5% (p<0,05). Verificou-se uma melhora na postura craniocervical, através da diminuição da anteriorização da cabeça (p=0,00) e do restabelecimento da curvatura fisiológica da coluna cervical (p=0,01). O tratamento postural em bola suíça proporcionou um melhor alinhamento da postura craniocervical, provavelmente pelo equilíbrio dos músculos cervicais e maior ação diafragmática.
Avaliação da lordose lombar e sua relação com a dor lombopélvica em gestantes
Authors: Firmento Beatriz da Silva , Moccellin Ana Silvia , Albino Maria Alice Seghessi , Driusso Patricia
Published: August 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a magnitude da lordose lombar, sua influência na dor lombopélvica e a qualidade de vida em gestantes. Para tal, foi realizado um estudo com 20 mulheres não gestantes (C) e 13 gestantes ao longo dos trimestres gestacionais (G1, G2 e G3). Todas as mulheres foram submetidas à avaliação inicial para registro dos dados pessoais, hábitos de vida, antecedentes pessoais, uso de medicamentos, história ginecológica e obstétrica. Posteriormente, as voluntárias do grupo controle foram avaliadas uma vez e as gestantes foram avaliadas em três momentos distintos, no 10, 20 e 30 trimestres gestacionais. A avaliação do grau de lordose lombar foi realizada por meio de técnica fotogramétrica; a avaliação de locais de dor, o tipo de dor e sua intensidade foram feitas por meio do Questionário McGill de dor; e a avaliação da qualidade de vida foi feita pelo Questionário WHOQOL-bref. Neste trabalho, não foi possível observar padrão de alteração da curvatura lombar no decorrer da gestação. Também não foi observada relação entre a curvatura lombar e a dor lombopélvica relacionada à gestação.
Benefícios do decúbito ventral associado ao CPAP em recém-nascidos prematuros
Authors: Lanza Fernanda de Cordoba , Barcellos Patrícia Gombai , Dal Corso Simone
Published: August 2012

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os benefícios nas variáveis clínicas do decúbito ventral (DV) associado a pressão positiva contínua nas vias aéreas (CPAP), em recém-nascido pré-termo (RNPT). Foi feito um estudo transversal em RNPT com utilização do CPAP internados na unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI). As frequências cardíaca (FC) e respiratória (FR), SpO2, quantificação do desconforto respiratório pelo boletim de Silverman e Andersen (BSA: quanto maior o valor, pior o desconforto respiratório) foram avaliados em cinco fases. Na fase I foram avaliadas a FC, FR, SpO2 e BSA em decúbito supino. Nas fases II, III, IV e V foram coletadas as mesmas variáveis da fase I após 5, 15, 30 e 60 min, respectivamente. O RNPT foi posicionado em DV logo após a fase I. Foi realizada análise de variância repetida para comparação entre todas as variáveis estudadas nas cinco fases, e utilizado-se teste de Bonferroni para análise post hoc. Foi considerada significância estatística quando p<0,05. No estudo, foram incluídos 13 RNPT, com média idade gestacional 33±1,5 semanas, sendo 7 do gênero masculino. Não houve alteração significante na FC, FR e SpO2, entre todas as fases. Houve redução no BSA nas fases III e IV quando comparadas à fase I: fase 1, 4,6±1,6 vs. fase III, 2,4±0,5 (p=0,02); fase I, 4,6±1,6 vs. fase IV, 2,4±0,5 (p=0,002). Concluiu-se, então, então que DV reduz o desconforto respiratório em RNPT quando associado ao CPAP, quando permanecem por, pelo menos, 15 min, sem alteração na FC, FR e SpO2.
Efeitos do treinamento muscular inspiratório em universitários tabagistas e não tabagistas
Authors: Zanoni Camila Tatiana , Rodrigues Camila Mendes Castanho , Mariano Daniele , Suzan Ana Beatriz Biagioli Manoel , Boaventura Luiz Carlos , Galvão Fábio
Published: August 2012

O hábito de fumar pode reduzir a capacidade aeróbica, aumentar a resistência ao fluxo aéreo e afetar a função dos músculos respiratórios. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar os efeitos do Treinamento Muscular Inspiratório (TMI) entre dois grupos: tabagistas e não tabagistas. Participaram 44 voluntários universitários, divididos em dois grupos: tabagistas (GT), composto por 20 indivíduos (25,60±7,01 anos) e não tabagistas, constituindo o Grupo Controle (GC), composto por 24 voluntários (24,08±7,52 anos). Ambos os grupos foram submetidos ao TMI, por meio do uso do manovacuômetro aneroide, com duração de 6 semanas, sendo 3 sessões semanais, totalizando 18 sessões. Os resultados mostraram diferença estatisticamente significativa (p<0,05) pós-TMI no GC para as variáveis: Pressão Inspiratória Máxima (PImáx), Pico de Fluxo Expiratório (PFE), Pressão Arterial Média ao repouso (PAM pré-TC6) e Teste de Caminhada de Seis Minutos (TC6). No GT, houve diferença estatisticamente significativa pós-TMI para as variáveis: PImáx, PFE, TC6 e saturação periférica de oxigênio após o TC6 (SpO2 pós-imediata). A comparação das médias das variáveis entre GT e GC mostrou diferença estatisticamente significativa no pós-TMI para as variáveis PImáx e PFE. A variável TC6 não apresentou diferença estatisticamente significativa. Conclui-se que o TMI proporcionou um aumento significativo da força muscular inspiratória, melhora da função pulmonar e melhora do desempenho físico nos indivíduos estudados.
Preferência podal em lactentes com síndrome de Down: fatores extrínsecos e intrínsecos
Authors: Santos Gabriela Lopes dos , Bueno Thaís Bortolini , Tudella Eloisa , Dionísio Jadiane
Published: August 2012

Durante o processo de aquisição do chute em lactentes, a preferência podal pode ser influenciada de forma diferente pelos fatores extrínsecos e intrínsecos. O objetivo foi comparar a preferência podal e verificar a influência do peso adicional e do Reflexo Tônico Cervical Assimétrico (RTCA) na preferência podal entre lactentes com síndrome de Down e típicos. Participaram do estudo cinco lactentes com síndrome de Down e cinco típicos aos três e quatro meses de idade. O experimento foi subdividido em quatro condições experimentais: Treinamento, Linha de Base, Peso e Pós-Peso. Os lactentes com síndrome de Down apresentaram preferência à esquerda ou indefinida e os típicos, preferência à direita. O RTCA influenciou na preferência podal em ambos os grupos, indicando que o lado de rotação da cabeça orientou o chute do mesmo lado. Nos lactentes com síndrome de Down a correlação entre RTCA e chutes foi positiva, sendo forte aos três meses e moderada aos quatro meses. Para os lactentes típicos foi observada correlação positiva fraca aos três meses, e aos quatro meses a correlação não foi estatisticamente significativa. Lactentes com síndrome de Down apresentam preferência podal contrária aos lactentes típicos. O RTCA exerce influência na preferência podal por um período mais longo em lactentes com síndrome de Down em comparação aos lactentes típicos.
Introduction - language planning: where have we been? where might we be going?
Authors: Baldauf Jr Richard B.
Published: August 2012

This paper provides a brief overview of the development and state of language policy and planning and examines some of the directions that language planners have been taking to engage with issues of importance to their discipline. The papers in this volume of RBLA are linked to the overview and the directions being taken by scholars in the field.
The teaching of English as a foreign language in the context of Brazilian regular schools: a retrospective and prospective view of policies and practices
Authors: Almeida Ricardo Luiz Teixeira de
Published: August 2012

This paper discusses government policies for the teaching of English as a foreign language in Brazilian regular schools, in relation to the practices and identities developed by the teachers working in this context. Starting with an historical analysis of the practices, propositions, and policies, since the second half of the last century, the article evaluates the impact of official documents upon the process of teaching English in Brazil. The tension between resistance and willingness to change, as well as between the identities of the teacher as either educator or instructor underlies the analysis, which also aims to point out possible paths for the future of our profession in regular schools.
Relationship between banana plant cultivation and stream macroinvertebrate communities
Authors: Kleine Priscila , Trivinho-Strixino Susana , Corbi Juliano José
Published: August 2012

AIMS: The present study describes the influence of banana plant cultivation on macroinvertebrate communities of streams located in the southeastern region of São Paulo state in the Atlantic Forest (four located in areas of banana cultivation and four in preserved areas); METHODS: Sampling was performed during October and November of 2005. The fauna was collected with Surber sampler and a D-aquatic net (both with mesh of 0.25 mm) in rapids and backwaters. Simultaneously, an environmental characterization of each stream was made; RESULTS: In total, 3,609 individuals were collected, distributed in 57 families, in which 45 were in forested streams and 46 in the banana plantation sites. Gripopterygidae, Perlidae, Leptophlebiidae, Leptoceridae, Helicopsychidae and Palaemonidae were abundant in forested streams, while Hydropsychidae, Chironomidae and Baetidae were abundant in the streams located in banana cultivation areas. Cluster analysis (UPGMA) with Simpson similarity measurement applied to the fauna of all streams evidenced the differences between forested and banana plantation streams. An analysis of similarity applied to both situations also pointed to significant differences (p < 0.05) between the two areas; CONCLUSIONS: This agricultural activity, although did not influence species richness patterns, seems to influence the structure of macroinvertebrate communities in low order streams in the Atlantic Forest region.
Development and Testing of the Jakubik Mentoring Benefits Questionnaire Among Pediatric Nurses
Authors: Jakubik Louise D.
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose: The ability to measure the benefits of mentoring among bedside nurses is essential for leaders in health care organizations to evaluate the effectiveness of mentoring initiatives for nurses. This article describes the development and testing of the Jakubik Mentoring Benefits Questionnaire (Jakubik MBQ). The instrument is a 36-item tool that uses a 5-point Likert scale to measure the individual and organizational benefits of mentoring from the nurse protégé’s perspective. Methods: The original Jakubik MBQ was a 57-item tool developed and validated (validity = .96) with a panel of 6 expert judges prior to reliability testing in a pilot study with 11 subjects (Cronbach’s alpha = .98). Subsequently, the 57-item instrument was used in 3 separate research studies (Jakubik, 2007a, 2007b; Jakubik, Eliades, Gavriloff, & Weese, 2011) with strong internal consistency reliability evidenced by Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of .98, .98, and .97, respectively. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the 57-item instrument with the 453 subjects from the aforementioned 3 studies. Results: Results of the factor analysis confirmed a total of 6 factors (subscales). Based on the factor analysis, the 4 original theoretical subscales were confirmed, 2 additional subscales were added, the original subscales were renamed, and the instrument was shortened to 36 items with each subscale containing 6 items and an overall Cronbach’s alpha of .97. Conclusions: Based on these overall findings, the Jakubik MBQ provides a valid and reliable instrument for use in measuring the mentoring benefits among pediatric staff nurse protégés engaged in mentoring relationships.
Measuring Motivation and Volition of Nursing Students in Nontraditional Learning Environments
Authors: Nagelsmith Laurie , Bryer Jason , Yan Zheng
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this study was to identify the best fitting model to represent interrelationships between motivation, volition, and academic success for adult nursing students learning in nontraditional environments. Participants (N = 297) completed a survey that incorporated two measures: the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) and the Academic Volitional Strategies Inventory (AVSI) as well as demographic information. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used for data analysis. In Phase 1, EFA resulted in factors that generally aligned with previous theoretical factors as defined by the psychometrics used. In Phase 2 of the analysis, CFA validated the use of predefined factor structures. In Phase 3, SEM analysis revealed that motivation has a larger effect on grade point average (GPA; βˆ = .28, p < .01) than volition (βˆ = .15, p < .05). The covariance between motivation and volition (r = .42, p < .01) was also found to be significant. These results suggest that there is a significant relationship among motivation, volition, and academic success for adult learners studying in nontraditional learning environments. These findings are consistent with and elaborate the relationship between motivation and volition with a population and setting underrepresented in the research.
Soft‐Tissue Alterations Following Exposure to Tooth‐Whitening Agents
Authors: Lucier Rebekah N. , Etienne Olivier , Ferreira Susana , Garlick Jonathan A. , Kugel Gerard , Egles Christophe
Published: August 2012

Background: Tooth‐whitening agents are widely used, either as self‐application products or under the supervision of a dentist. These products may be associated with transient gross morphologic changes in oral soft tissues. However, their potential effects on human keratinocytes and fibroblasts in a stratified squamous epithelium have yet to be elucidated.

Methods: In this study, three‐dimensional human tissue equivalents are exposed to varying concentrations of tooth‐whitening agents for increasing time periods. Tissue alterations are investigated in terms of morphology, proliferation, apoptosis, and protein expression.

Results: All whitening agents tested altered tissue morphology, induced proliferation of basal keratinocytes, and caused apoptosis of cells in all epithelial strata. In addition, whitening agents induced alterations in the expression of cytokines that are linked to inflammation.

Conclusions: These results suggest that whitening agents may induce similar changes in vivo and that these products should be used for limited periods of time or under the supervision of a dental professional.
The presence of early childhood caries among the members of different ethnic groups of the South Backa District
Authors: Tusek Ivan , Carevic Momir , Tusek Jasmina
Published: August 2012

Background/Aim. Early childhood caries (ECC) is a special form of caries in
primary dentition that affect teeth after eruption, with rapid progression,
later symptomatology and numerous complications. The aim of this study was to
investigate the frequency of ECC among different ethnic groups of preschool
children in the South Backa District. Methods. The survey was performed as a
crosssectional analytical study on the sample of preschool children of both
sexes and different ethnic groups in the South Backa District. The diagnosis
and the clinical form of ECC was defined by dental check-ups according to the
modified Wyne's criteria: the initial form (type 1) shows carious lesions
without disturbing the surface structure of the tooth enamel, the moderate
form (type 2) shows carious lesions affecting one or two teeth or their
surfaces, the middle form (type 3) shows carious lesions affecting more than
two teeth or their surfaces, the severe form (type 4) shows the presence of
two and more gangrenous roots in the maxilla intercanini sector, and the
severe form with complications (type 5) shows the presence of two and more
gangrenous roots in the maxilla intercanini sector with the presence of
fistula and/or abscess of tooth root apex. Epidemiological data on the
different ethnic groups were obtained by interviewing the parents of the
examined children. The tests on significant statistical differences was
performed by the variance analysis and ?2 test. Results. The prevalence of
ECC in children oped 41.32 ? 8.57 months, of the South Backa District was
30.5%. The highest disease frequency was found in Roma children (50.0%) as
well as in children of Ruthenian nationality (43.8%), than in children of
Slovakia nationality (37.8%), Serbian (26.1%), Hungerian (25.4%) and other
nationalities (27.4%). The frequency of types 1, 3, 4, and 5 ECC was twice as
high as in children who do not speak Serbian language. Conclusion. The
frequency of ECC occurrence is different among ethnic groups. The highest
frequency of ECC is present among the members of ethnic groups whose native
language is not Serbian.
The Association between Audit Committee Multiple-Directorships, Tenure, and Financial Misstatements
Authors: Sharma Vineeta D. , Iselin Errol R.
Published: August 2012

This study examines the association between multiple-directorships and tenure of independent audit committee members and financial misstatements in the pre- and post-Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) reform environment. Regulatory reforms following the accounting scandals at Enron and WorldCom substantially expanded the responsibilities and scrutiny of the audit committee and, consequently, amplify the reputational and litigation risks facing the directors serving on the committee. Our results show a significant positive association between financial misstatements and multiple-directorships in the post-SOX environment. This finding suggests that independent audit committee members serving on multiple boards may be stretched too thinly to effectively perform their monitoring responsibilities. We also find a significant positive association between the tenure of independent audit committee members and financial misstatements in the post-SOX environment, suggesting that directors with longer tenure may not exercise independent judgment. These observations support calls for limits on multiple-directorships and director tenure, and add to our understanding of how independent directors' characteristics affect the effectiveness of the audit committee.
Adiponectin Enhances Mouse Fetal Fat Deposition
Authors: Qiao Liping , Yoo Hyung sun , Madon Alysha , Kinney Brice , Hay William W. , Shao Jianhua
Published: August 2012

Maternal obesity increases offspring birth weight and susceptibility to obesity. Adiponectin is an adipocyte-secreted hormone with a prominent function in maintaining energy homeostasis. In contrast to adults, neonatal blood adiponectin levels are positively correlated with anthropometric parameters of adiposity. This study was designed to investigate the role of adiponectin in maternal obesityenhanced fetal fat deposition. By using high-fat diet–induced obese mouse models, our study showed that maternal obesity increased fetal fat tissue mass, with a significant elevation in fetal blood adiponectin. However, adiponectin gene knockout (Adipoq−/−) attenuated maternal obesity-induced high fetal fat tissue mass. We further studied the effects of fetal adiponectin on fetal fat deposition by using a cross breeding approach to create Adipoq−/+ and Adipoq−/− offspring, whereas maternal adiponectin was null. Adipoq−/+ offspring had more fat tissue mass at both birth and adulthood. Significantly high levels of lipogenic genes, such as sterol regulatory element–binding protein 1c and fatty acid synthase, were detected in the livers of Adipoq−/+ fetuses. In addition, expression of genes for placental fatty acid transport was significantly increased in Adipoq−/+ fetuses. Together, our study indicates that adiponectin enhances fetal fat deposition and plays an important role in maternal obesity-induced high birth weight.
Systemic β-Adrenergic Stimulation of Thermogenesis Is Not Accompanied by Brown Adipose Tissue Activity in Humans
Authors: Vosselman Maarten J. , van der Lans Anouk A.J.J. , Brans Boudewijn , Wierts Roel , van Baak Marleen A. , Schrauwen Patrick , van Marken Lichtenbelt Wouter D.
Published: August 2012

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is currently considered as a target to combat obesity and diabetes in humans. BAT is densely innervated by the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and can be stimulated by β-adrenergic agonists, at least in animals. However, the exact role of the β-adrenergic part of the SNS in BAT activation in humans is not known yet. In this study, we measured BAT activity by 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-d-glucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging in 10 lean men during systemic infusion of the nonselective β-agonist isoprenaline (ISO) and compared this with cold-activated BAT activity. ISO successfully mimicked sympathetic stimulation as shown by increased cardiovascular and metabolic activity. Energy expenditure increased to similar levels as during cold exposure. Surprisingly, BAT was not activated during β-adrenergic stimulation. We next examined whether the high plasma free fatty acid (FFA) levels induced by ISO competed with glucose ([18F]FDG) uptake in BAT locations by blocking lipolysis with acipimox (ACI). ACI successfully lowered plasma FFA, but did not increase [18F]FDG-uptake in BAT. We therefore conclude that systemic nonselective β-adrenergic stimulation by ISO at concentrations that increase energy expenditure to the same extent as cold exposure does not activate BAT in humans, indicating that other tissues are responsible for the increased β-adrenergic thermogenesis.
SEM evidence for existence of an apical disc on the scolex of Clestobothrium crassiceps (Rudolphi, 1819): comparative results of various fixation techniques
Authors: Miquel Jordi , Świderski Zdzisław , Marigo Adji , Delgado Eulàlia , Torres Jordi
Published: August 2012

The scolex of the bothriocephalidean cestode Clestobothrium crassiceps was studied by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The comparative results of various fixation procedures and techniques are presented. The scolex of C. crassiceps is oval to globular and exhibits two deep bothria which appear in the form of two lobes separated by a longitudinal groove. At the apex of the scolex, resembling a beret, an apical disc is present (oval, flattened and with a sinuous edge). Our results are compared with those previously reported in other species of Clestobothrium. This study represents the first report which highlights the presence of an apical disc in the scolex of C. crassiceps. It describes the effects of different procedures applied to our material during preparation and a comparative analysis results obtained using these various methods.
Morphological and molecular characterisation of the entomoparasitic nematode Hammerschmidtiella diesingi (Nematoda, Oxyurida, Thelastomatidae)
Authors: Blanco María , Lax Paola , Dueñas Juan , Gardenal Cristina , Doucet Marcelo
Published: August 2012

A population of Hammerschmidtiella diesingi was detected in specimens of Periplaneta americana collected in Córdoba city (Argentina) was studied. Nematodes were characterized based on morphological, morphometric and genetic (D2–D3 expansion segment) analyses. New data are provided, especially on particular morphological characters that were a matter of controversy in previous studies. H. diesingi is reported in Argentina for the first time.
Ultrastructure of the vitellarium in the digeneans Phyllodistomum angulatum (Plagiorchiida, Gorgoderidae) and Azygia lucii (Strigeida, Azygiidae)
Authors: Poddubnaya Larisa , Bruňanská Magdaléna , Świderski Zdzisław , Gibson David
Published: August 2012

Fine structural features of the vitellarium of two digeneans, Phyllodistomum angulatum and Azygia lucii, are documented and compared with those of other digenean species. The cytodifferentiation of immature vitelline cells (vitellocytes) assumes the production and subsequent accumulation in their cytoplasm of several inclusions. Mature vitelline cells of P. angulatum are characterized by the presence of vitelline clusters (∼2.7 μm in diameter, with ∼100 vitelline globules of ∼0.35 μm in diameter) and osmiophobic, saturated lipid droplets (∼2-3 μm in diameter), and in A. lucii vitelline clusters of the same diameter include much fewer vitelline globules (∼50 globules of ∼0.5 μm in diameter), osmiophilic lipid droplets and α-glycogen. In both P. angulatum and A. lucii, interstitial cells are also present within the vitellarium. Two types of contact sites (septate and tight junctions) between adjoining interstitial cells also occur in both digenean species. Judging from the present and previous ultrastructural studies, it is suggested that there are three potential discriminatory characters of the digenean vitellarium (the number of different types of cell components within the vitellarium, the presence and type of junctional complexes between these cells, and the isolation of the vitellarium from the surrounding tissue) which may prove useful for a better understanding of the biology and evolutionary history of the different digenean groups.
A new species of Colobomatus (Copepoda, Phylichthyidae) parasitic on Mullus argentinae (Perciformes, Mullidae) from South American Atlantic coast
Authors: Pereira Aldenice , Timi Juan , Lanfranchi Ana , Luque José
Published: August 2012

A new species of Colobomatus Hesse, 1873 is described from pores of the cephalic sensory system and nostrils of Argentine goatfish, Mullus argentinae Hubbs et Marini, 1933 (Perciformes: Mullidae), living along the southwestern Atlantic coast. The fish were collected at different latitudes, stretching from the State of Rio de Janeiro in the north, through Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil) to of Mar del Plata (Argentina) in the south. The prevalence of the infection ranged from 42% through 84%. The new species look alike to two other species, parasites of mullids (C. steenstrupi and C. mulli) particularly in the body shape and the number, shape, and ornamentation of cephalic, thoracic, and genital processes. The new species, however, can be readily distinguished by having the central cephalic process shorter than lateral ones, the later being bilobed at tip forked, and a relatively larger abdomen. Furthermore, C. steenstrupi possesses relatively wider trunk processes with rounded tips, a short abdominal dorsal process, and attains a larger size (up to 3.6 mm). C. mulli also differs by having all body processes with forked tips, and relatively shorter sixth thoracic somite and abdominal segments 1–3. This is the third record of a species of Colobomatus in South American Atlantic waters.
Axenic cultivation and comparative phospholipase A2 activity of Giardia duodenalis in a serum-free medium
Authors: Mata-Cárdenas Benito , Hernández-García Magda , González-Salazar Francisco , Garza-González Jesús , Palacios-Corona Rebeca , Cortés-Gutiérrez Elva , Vargas-Villarreal Javier
Published: August 2012

Mammalian serum is essential for the growth of Giardia duodenalis cultivated under axenic conditions. Unfortunately, some factors present in bovine serum used as supplement in the culture medium may inhibit protozoal growth and activity. TYI-33-PACSR is a TYI medium supplemented with a serum replacement (PACSR) made up of Earle’s amino acid solution, Diamond’s vitamin-tween 80 mixtures and LCR (a lipid-cholesterol — rich mixture). PACSR was previously used in the culture media for axenic cultivation of Entamoeba histolytica and Trichomonas vaginalis. The main objective of this work was to demonstrate that TYI-33-PACSR is useful for axenic cultivation of G. duodenalis. Additionally, the activity of phospholipase A2 (PLA A2) in the sub-cellular vesicular fraction (P30) of G. duodenalis grown in TYI-S-33 and TYI-33-PACSR was compared. All strains of Giardia grown in TYI-33-PACSR reached relative cellular densities of 91 to 95% compared to controls growing in serum-supplemented TYI-S-33 medium. Additionally, PLA A2 activity was similar in the P30 sub-cellular fraction obtained from trophozoites growing in TYI-S-33 and TYI-33-PACSR. Thus, TYI-33-PACSR could be useful in analyzing the biological properties of G. duodenalis in the absence of serum.
Molecular identification of Diphyllobothrium latum and a brief review of diphyllobothriosis in China
Authors: Guo Ai-Jiang , Liu Kan , Gong Wei , Luo Xue-Nong , Yan Hong-Bin , Zhao Song-Buo , Hu Song-Nian , Jia Wan-Zhong
Published: August 2012

Two tapeworm specimens collected in northeast China in 2009 and 2011 were identified as Diphyllobothrium latum based on morphological criteria. Molecular methods were used to confirm their identity and analyze genetic variations compared with published data for this species. Species identity was confirmed by molecular characterization of the 18S rDNA partial sequence, complete sequences of internal transcribed spacers (ITSs) and 5.8S rDNA, and partial sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) and mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5 (nad5). PCR amplification and sequence analysis of 18S rDNA (1472 bp), ITS regions (1218 bp), cox1 (885 bp), and nad5 (1028 bp) revealed that these four sequences showed more than 99% identity to reference sequences for D. latum, confirming that this species is D. latum. To date, a total of 12 diphyllobothriosis cases have been documented in China. This study represents the first molecular characterization of D. latum in China, providing molecular evidence of human diphyllobothriosis in China.
A model for co-clusters and their strengthening in Al–Cu–Mg based alloys: a comparison with experimental data
Authors: Starink Marco Jan
Published: August 2012

A model for the thermodynamics of and strengthening due to Cu–Mg co-clusters in Al–Cu–Mg based alloys is analysed and tested. The formulation uses a single interaction enthalpy between dissimilar alloying elements (e.g. Cu and Mg atoms in an Al–Cu–Mg based alloy) combined with the configurational entropy. The metastable solvus in Al–Cu–Mg based alloys is calculated. Recently published small angle X-ray scattering experiments, 3-dimensional atom probe and yield strength data on these type of alloys support the model. The small angle X-ray scattering and hardness experiments, as well as calorimetry experiments, are sensitive to the main free energy (or enthalpy) changes, which are dominated by Cu–Mg bonds formed by the dimers and the local electron densities related to these bonds. 3 dimensional atom probe is less sensitive to dimers, and will detect agglomeration of dimers to form larger clusters.
On the high temperature stability of γ-Al2O3/Ti0.33Al0.67N coated WC–Co cutting inserts
Authors: Jiang Kaiyun , Sarakinos Kostas , Atiser Adil , Reinholdt Alexander , Mayer Joachim , Schneider Jochen M.
Published: August 2012

The high temperature stability of γ-Al2O3 films deposited using filtered cathodic arc and plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition on Ti0.33Al0.67N coated WC–Co cutting inserts is investigated. X-ray diffractometry reveals that filtered cathodic arc deposited films transform partially into the thermodynamically stable α-Al2O3 phase at a temperature of 1000°C. The γ to α-Al2O3 transformation for plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition grown films is observed at 900°C. These results are in qualitative agreement with differential scanning calorimetry measurements. Transmission electron microscopy on filtered cathodic arc and plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition films annealed at 900°C reveals the existence of hexagonal AlN in the Ti0.33Al0.67N interlayer, as well as Al depletion at the Al2O3/Ti0.33Al0.67N interface. After annealing the plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition sample at 900°C, α-Al2O3 grains with a size of ∼100 nm are observed inside the γ-Al2O3 matrix, while for filtered cathodic arc samples only the γ-phase is identified. Transmission electron microscopy analysis on both filtered cathodic arc and plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition samples annealed at 1000°C shows that the original Al2O3/Ti0.33Al0.67N/WC–Co layer architecture is no longer intact. The formation of TiO2 is detected along the growth direction of the Al2O3 films. The present study suggests that not only the morphology and the impurities incorporated into γ-Al2O3 but also stability of the Ti0.33Al0.67N interlayer determine the high temperature stability of γ-Al2O3/Ti0.33Al0.67N coated hardmetal.
Microstructure and phase composition in a die cast Mg–Nd alloy containing Zn and Zr
Authors: Atiya Galit , Bamberger Menachem , Katsman Alexander
Published: August 2012

The microstructure of the as-cast Mg-3.1Nd-0.45Zr-0.25Zn (wt.%) alloy was investigated. It consists of α-Mg matrix, a divorced intergranular phase and small Zr-containing particles. Scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis on transmission electron microscopy samples was carried out in order to eliminate the Mg matrix contribution to the quantitative analysis results and to reveal the intergranular phase composition which was found to be Mg12–x
Zn
x
Nd (x ∼ 0.31) (space group I4/mmm) with a bct crystal structure. The lattice parameters (a = 1.029 nm and c = 0.591 nm) were found using X-ray diffraction with the least squares refinement technique. The combination of different characterization techniques indicates that Mg atoms are substituted by Zn atoms without a change in the crystal structure.
Surface oxide layer formation on Au-Pt-Pd-Si alloys for dental resin restorations
Authors: Park Jeong-Jong , Joo Uk-Hyun , Kim Kwang-Mahn , Kim Kyoung-Nam
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study was to develop Au-Pt-Pd-Si alloys with metal-resin bonding properties optimized for dental restorations. The amount of silicon added ranged from 0.00-0.54 wt.%. The Au-Pt-Pd-Si alloys were manufactured using an arc melting furnace. They were homogenized at 800°C in air and cold rolled to a 1 mm thickness. The changes in the surface morphology and oxide layer formation were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy before and after oxidation treatment. The mechanical properties of the alloys were evaluated using micro-hardness and shear bonding tests. The surface oxide layer was mostly composed of silicon dioxide and metallic gold. The micro-hardness of the Au-Pt-Pd-Si alloys increased as a function of the silicon concentration. The shear bonding strength was significantly higher (9.30 MPa) at 0.54 wt.% silicon (p < 0.05).
Effect of sol concentration on the microstructures of barium hafnate titanate nanopowders
Authors: Fu Chunlin , Liao Huan , Cai Wei , Deng Xiaoling , Chen Gang
Published: August 2012

The properties of barium hafnate titanate are possibly better than those of barium zirconium titanate. In general nanoscale materials possess unique electrical, magnetic, and optical properties. Barium hafnate titanate powders were prepared via sol-gel processing at different sol concentrations. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy characterization were performed. The X-ray diffraction spectra suggest that a higher calcination temperature is necessary for the powder samples prepared at lower sol concentrations to obtain a pure phase. The X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy results both reveal that the average powder size decreases with the increasing of sol concentration, which may be due to the change in viscosity.
Thermodynamic re-assessment of the Ni – Sn system
Authors: Liu Jinming , Guo Cuiping , Li Changrong , Du Zhenmin
Published: August 2012

The Ni – Sn system was critically re-assessed by means of the CALPHAD technique. The excess Gibbs energies of the solution phases (liquid, fcc (Ni) and bct (Sn)) were modeled with the Redlich–Kister equation. Five intermetallic compounds, Ni3Sn_HT (which is stable at high temperature), Ni3Sn_LT (which is stable at low temperature), Ni3Sn2_HT, Ni3Sn2_LT and Ni3Sn4in the Ni – Sn system were treated as the formula (Ni,Sn)1/4(Ni,Sn)1/4(Ni)1/2, (Ni,Sn)3/4(Ni,Sn)1/4, (Ni)1/3(Ni,Sn)1/3(Sn)1/3, (Sn)1/5(Ni,Sn)2/5 · (Ni)2/5, and (Ni)1/4(Ni,Sn)1/4(Ni)1/2, respectively. A set of self-consistent thermodynamic parameters of the Ni – Sn system was obtained.
Stability of mechanical behavior and work performance in TiNi-based alloys during thermal cycling
Authors: Belyaev Sergey , Resnina Natalia
Published: August 2012

Variations in strain and work output in two Ti-47 at.%Ni-3 at.%Cu and Ti-51.5 at.%Ni alloys during thermal cycling in the mode of fixed stress acting on cooling and heating were studied. It was found that in the Ti50Ni47Cu3 alloy with a low level of yield stress, the values of transformation plasti city and shape memory effect and work output were changing during thermal cycling. It was observed that the mechanical behavior and work performance of Ti-51.5 at.%Ni alloy with a high level of yield stress was stable on thermal cycling irrespective the value of stress acting on cooling and heating. It was found that under the same stress conditions the value of work output in Ti-51.5 at.% Ni alloy was four times lower than in the Ti-47 at.%Ni-3 at.%Cu alloy. Moreover, the accumulated residual strain was approximately 40 times lower than in Ti50Ni47Cu3 alloy with a low level of yield stress.