bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defects in Breathing and Thermoregulation in Mice with Near-Complete Absence of Central Serotonin Neurons
Authors: Hodges Matthew R. , Tattersall Glenn J. , Harris Michael B. , McEvoy Sean D. , Richerson Diana N. , Deneris Evan S. , Johnson Randy L. , Chen Zhou-Feng , Richerson George B.
Published: March 2008

Serotonergic neurons project widely throughout the CNS and modulate many different brain functions. Particularly important, but controversial, are the contributions of serotonin (5-HT) neurons to respiratory and thermoregulatory control. To better define the roles of 5-HT neurons in breathing and thermoregulation, we took advantage of a unique conditional knock-out mouse in whichLmx1bis genetically deleted inPet1-expressing cells (Lmx1bf/f/p), resulting in near-complete absence of central 5-HT neurons. Here, we show that the hypercapnic ventilatory response in adultLmx1bf/f/pmice was decreased by 50% compared with wild-type mice, whereas baseline ventilation and the hypoxic ventilatory response were normal. In addition,Lmx1bf/f/pmice rapidly became hypothermic when exposed to an ambient temperature of 4°C, decreasing core temperature to 30°C within 120 min. This failure of thermoregulation was caused by impaired shivering and nonshivering thermogenesis, whereas thermosensory perception and heat conservation were normal. Finally, intracerebroventricular infusion of 5-HT stimulated baseline ventilation, and rescued the blunted hypercapnic ventilatory response. These data identify a previously unrecognized role of 5-HT neurons in the CO2chemoreflex, whereby they enhance the response of the rest of the respiratory network to CO2. We conclude that the proper function of the 5-HT system is particularly important under conditions of environmental stress and contributes significantly to the hypercapnic ventilatory response and thermoregulatory cold defense.
Expression of Nonclassical Class I Major Histocompatibility Genes Defines a Tripartite Organization of the Mouse Vomeronasal System
Authors: Ishii Tomohiro , Mombaerts Peter
Published: March 2008

The epithelium of the mouse vomeronasal organ (VNO) consists of apical and basal layers of neuronal cell bodies. Vomeronasal sensory neurons (VSNs) with cell bodies in the basal layer express the G-protein subunitGαoand members of the V2R superfamily of vomeronasal receptor genes and project their axons to the posterior accessory bulb (AOB).V2R+VSNs also express particular patterns of a family of nine nonclassical class I major histocompatibilityMhcgenes, theH2-Mvgenes. The function of H2-Mv molecules remains unknown. H2-Mv molecules have been reported to be associated with V2R molecules and have been proposed to participate in pheromone detection. Here, we find that a substantial fraction ofV2R+VSNs does not express these nineH2-Mvgenes. The cell bodies ofH2-Mv+andH2-Mv−VSNs reside in the lower and upper sublayers of the basal layer, respectively. This spatial segregation is maintained at the level of the AOB:H2-Mv+andH2-Mv−VSNs project their axons to the posterior and anterior subdomains of the posterior AOB, respectively. By generating a C-terminal green fluorescent protein fusion protein with M10.2 in gene-targeted mice, we observe subcellular localization of M10.2 not only in dendrites but also in axons of VSNs. Our results reveal a tripartite organization of the VNO and AOB, question the generality of the requirement of these nine H2-Mv molecules for V2R surface expression, and suggest that H2-Mvs can function in both dendrites and axons.
Cannabinoid Modulation of Amygdala Reactivity to Social Signals of Threat in Humans
Authors: Phan K. Luan , Angstadt Mike , Golden Jamie , Onyewuenyi Ikechukwu , Popovska Ana , de Wit Harriet
Published: March 2008

The cannabinoid (CB) system is a key neurochemical mediator of anxiety and fear learning in both animals and humans. The anxiolytic effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, are believed to be mediated through direct and selective agonism of CB1receptors localized within the basolateral amygdala, a critical brain region for threat perception. However, little is known about the effects of THC on amygdala reactivity in humans. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging and a well validated task to probe amygdala responses to threat signals in 16 healthy, recreational cannabis users after a double-blind crossover administration of THC or placebo. We found that THC significantly reduced amygdala reactivity to social signals of threat but did not affect activity in primary visual and motor cortex. The current findings fit well with the notion that THC and other cannabinoids may have an anxiolytic role in central mechanisms of fear behaviors and provide a rationale for exploring novel therapeutic strategies that target the cannabinoid system for disorders of anxiety and social fear.
Endothelin-1 Regulates Astrocyte Proliferation and Reactive Gliosis via a JNK/c-Jun Signaling Pathway
Authors: Gadea Ana , Schinelli Sergio , Gallo Vittorio
Published: March 2008

Reactive gliosis is characterized by enhanced glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression, cellular hypertrophy, and astrocyte proliferation. The cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this process are still largely undefined. We investigated the role of endothelin-1 (ET-1) in reactive gliosis in corpus callosum after lysolecithin (LPC)-induced focal demyelination and in cultured astrocytes. We show that ET-1 levels are upregulated in demyelinated lesions within 5 d after LPC injection, together with enhanced astrocyte proliferation, GFAP expression, and JNK phosphorylation. Infusion of the pan-ET-receptor (ET-R) antagonist Bosentan or the selective ETB-R antagonist BQ788 into the corpus callosum prevented postlesion astrocyte proliferation and JNK phosphorylation. In cultured astrocytes, ET-1-induced activation of ETB-Rs promotes a reactive phenotype by enhancing both GFAP expression and astrocyte proliferation. In the same cells, ET-1 activates both JNK and p38MAPK pathways, and induces c-Jun expression at the mRNA and protein levels. By using selective pharmacological inhibitors, we also provide evidence that ET-1 induces astrocyte proliferation and GFAP expression through activation of ERK- and JNK-dependent pathways, consistent with the previous observation of ET-1-induced activation of ERK (Schinelli et al., 2001). Finally, we show by gain and loss of function that increased c-Jun expression enhances the proliferative response of astrocytes to ET-1, whereasc-junsiRNA prevents ET-1-induced cell proliferation. Our results indicate that the effects of ET-1 on astrocyte proliferation depend on c-Jun induction and activation through ERK- and JNK-dependent pathways, and suggest that ET-R-associated pathways might represent important targets to control reactive gliosis.
Male Deities in Northern Roman Britain
Authors: Vanderspoel John
Published: March 2008

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Gitxsan and Witsuwit'en Experience of the Boundaries of the Self
Authors: Mills Antonia
Published: March 2008

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RGG Religion in Geschichte und Gegenwart, Taschenlexikon Religion und Theologie, Philosophie von Platon bis Nietzsche, Marx, Engels, Ausgewählte Werke, Friedrich Nietzsche, Max Weber - Gesammelte Werke, Martin Luther: Gesammelte Werke, Handbuch der Kirchengeschichte
Authors: Hexman Irving
Published: March 2008

RGG Religion in Geschichte und Gegenwart, 3-89853-412-X, Euro 135,00
Taschenlexikon Religion und Theologie, 3-89853-473-1, Euro 30
Philosophie von Platon bis Nietzsche, 3-89853-402-2, Euro 45
Marx, Engels, Ausgewählte Werke, Vol. 11, 3-89853-411-1, Euro 45,00
Friedrich Nietzsche, 3-89853-431-6, Euro, 45
Max Weber - Gesammelte Werke, 3-89853-458-8, Euro 45.00
Martin Luther: Gesammelte Werke, 3-89853-463-4, Euro 45
Handbuch der Kirchengeschichte, 3-89853-435-9, Euro 45
Pamela Barmash. Homicide in the Biblical World
Authors: McGeough Kevin
Published: March 2008

Pamela Barmash. Homicide in the Biblical World. xvi + 253 pages. Cambridge University Press, 2005. ISBN: 0-521-83468-6 $25.99.
Paracoccidioidomycosis: infiltrated, sarcoid-like cutaneous lesions misinterpreted as tuberculoid leprosy
Authors: Marques Sílvio Alencar , Lastória Joel Carlos , Putinatti Maria Stella de M.A. , Camargo Rosangela Maria Pires de , Marques Mariangela E. A.
Published: March 2008

The authors report a case of paracoccidioidomycosis misinterpreted as tuberculoid leprosy, both on clinical and histological examination. Sarcoid-like cutaneous lesion as the initial presentation is rare in young patient with paracoccidioidomycosis and can simulate other infectious or inflammatory diseases. On histology, tuberculoid granuloma presented similar difficulties. Treatment with dapsone, a sulfonamide derivative, could have delayed the presumed natural clinical course to the classical juvenile type of paracoccidioidomycosis, observed only 24 months after the patient had been treated for leprosy.
Prevalence of intestinal parasites in children from public daycare centers in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Menezes Aline L. , Lima Vítor M.P. , Freitas Mayrce T.S. , Rocha Míriam O. , Silva Edward F. , Dolabella Silvio S.
Published: March 2008

The objective of this study was to verify the occurrence of intestinal parasites in 3 to 6-year-old children from daycare centers maintained by the municipal government of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Coproparasitological tests performed in 472 children have shown that 24.6% of them had some type of parasites, 6.6% of the children having more than one type. Among protozoa, Entamoeba coli (14.0%) and G. duodenalis (9.5%) were the most prevalent, whereas Ascaris lumbricoides (3.0%) and Trichuris trichiura (1.1%) were the most frequent among the helminths. Thus, we can observe that intestinal parasites still represent a serious public health problem in Belo Horizonte, especially among children and in areas where the socioeconomic conditions are less favorable.
Produção e qualidade de frutos de híbridos de pimentão (Capsicum annuum) em ambiente protegido em Manaus-AM
Authors: Rodrigues Isac Nogueira , Lopes Maria Teresa , Lopes Ricardo , Gama Aildo da Silva , Rodrigues Maria do Rosário
Published: March 2008

Na avaliação de cultivares de hortaliças, os rendimentos médios mais elevados nos ensaios de competição, associados aos fatores de qualidade, são utilizados como critérios de recomendação para plantio. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar nas condições climáticas de Manaus, AM, sob cultivo protegido, cinco híbridos comerciais de pimentão. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação do tipo arco, medindo 50,4m de comprimento com 7m de largura e coberta com plástico de 100 micras. Foi utilizado o delineamento experimental blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições e parcelas de 20 plantas e avaliadas as características: peso (PF) e número (NF) de frutos produzidos por planta, peso médio de fruto (PMF), comprimento (CF) e diâmetro (DF) médio do fruto e relação CF/DF (RCD). Os dados foram submetidos a análises de variância e comparação de médias (Tukey). Foram verificadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas para todas as características avaliadas, com excessão para PF. Os híbridos Magali R e Nathalie apresentaram frutos mais alongados, formato preferido pelo consumidor local. Os frutos do híbrido Safari R, embora menos alongados que os de Magali R e Nathalie, apresentam maior peso médio e satisfazem a exigência do mercado local, sendo esse híbrido uma boa alternativa para diversificação dos híbridos cultivados.
Aechmea rodriguesiana (L. B. Sm.) L. B. Sm. (Bromeliaceae) uma espécie endêmica da Amazônia brasileira
Authors: Sousa Gardene Maria de , Wanderley Maria das Graças Lapa
Published: March 2008

Aechmea subgênero Chevaliera (Gaudich. ex Beer) Baker está representado na Amazônia brasileira pelas espécies A. fernandae (E. Morren) Baker e A. rodriguesiana (L. B. Sm.) L. B. Sm., sendo a última restrita para esta região. A. rodriguesiana se caracteriza pelas flores dispostas em racemo de espigas, com brácteas florais ovais, margens inteiras, envolvendo o ovário e pelas pétalas alvas e cuculadas. O presente trabalho apresenta a complementação da descrição e ilustrações desta espécie. São apresentados dados de distribuição geográfica, hábitats e fenológicos.
Produção de serrapilheira no Cerrado e Floresta de Transição Amazônia-Cerrado do Centro-Oeste Brasileiro
Authors: Silva Carlos José da , Sanches Luciana , Bleich Monica Elisa , Lobo Francisco de Almeida , Nogueira José de Souza
Published: March 2008

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a variação da produção de serrapilheira de diferentes biomas: Cerrado (com as fitofisionomias Cerrado sensu stricto e Cerradão) e Floresta de Transição Amazônia-Cerrado, em clima tropical. Para a determinação da produção de serrapilheira foram utilizados coletores de tela em náilon. Dados micrometereológicos foram coletados nas áreas de estudo. A produção de serrapilheira nos dois biomas mostrou acentuada sazonalidade, com as maiores produções ocorrendo durante a estação seca e menor durante a estação chuvosa. A maior produção de serrapilheira ocorreu na Floresta de Transição, seguida do bioma Cerrado. A fração de folhas foi mais representativa do que as frações de galhos, flores, frutos em ambas as áreas estudadas.
O trabalhador sem formação em enfermagem atuando em centro de material e esterilização: desafio para o enfermeiro
Authors: Tipple Anaclara F. Veiga , Souza Thays Ribeiro de , Bezerra Ana Lúcia Queiroz , Munari Denize Boutellet
Published: March 2008

O estudo teve com objetivo caracterizar o processo de inserção nos Centros de Material e Esterilização - CME, de trabalhadores que não possuem formação específica na área de enfermagem. Fizeram parte do estudo 75 trabalhadores de dois hospitais públicos. Após observação dos aspectos éticos legais, os dados foram obtidos por meio de questionário previamente validado e testado. Foram encontrados 15 trabalhadores sem formação específica, provenientes de serviços diversos intra e extra hospitalar, os quais não foram submetidos a processos de seleção ou treinamentos, tendo aprendido a rotina do serviço com colegas de trabalho. Tais aspectos são preocupantes, considerando-se o risco ocupacional do trabalhador, o comprometimento da qualidade do reprocessamento de artigos hospitalares e o cumprimento da legislação do exercício profissional.
Estado nutricional e produção de laranjeira 'Pêra' em função da vegetação intercalar e cobertura morta
Authors: Bremer Neto Horst , Victoria Filho Ricardo , Mourão Filho Francisco de Assis Alves , Menezes Gilberto Mendonça de , Canali Émerson
Published: March 2008

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da cobertura morta e da vegetação intercalar composta por gramíneas e leguminosas perenes nas propriedades químicas do solo e no estado nutricional de plantas de laranjeira 'Pêra' (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck) enxertada em limoeiro 'Cravo' (Citrus limonia Osbeck). Os tratamentos testados foram: T1, Brachiaria ruziziensis R. Germ. & Evrard na entrelinha sem cobertura morta na linha; T2, B. ruziziensis na entrelinha e cobertura morta na linha; T3, B. ruziziensis consorciada com amendoim forrageiro (Arachis pintoi Krap. & Greg) na entrelinha e cobertura morta na linha; T4, B. ruziziensis e estilosantes (Stylosanthes capitata, S. macrocephala e S. guianensis) na entrelinha e cobertura morta na linha; T5, capim-marmelada (Brachiaria plantaginea (Link) Hitch.) na entrelinha e cobertura morta na linha; T6, amendoim forrageiro na entrelinha e cobertura morta na linha; T7, estilosantes na entrelinha e cobertura morta na linha. A leguminosa estilosantes proporcionou aumento da concentração foliar de N em relação à vegetação intercalar composta por B. ruziziensis. A cobertura morta não reduziu a disponibilidade de N para as plantas cítricas. Verificou-se correlação entre a densidade do sistema radicular na camada superficial do solo com a concentração foliar de P e produção de frutos.
Macrofauna edáfica associada a plantas de cobertura em plantio direto em um Latossolo Vermelho do Cerrado
Authors: Santos Glenio Guimarães , Silveira Pedro Marques da , Marchão Robélio Leandro , Becquer Thierry , Balbino Luiz Carlos
Published: March 2008

O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a macrofauna edáfica e avaliar o efeito de plantas de cobertura em plantio direto, nos principais grupos da macrofauna do solo, em duas épocas de avaliação em um Latossolo Vermelho distroférrico. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos ao acaso, com oito tratamentos (plantas de cobertura) e quatro repetições. As plantas de cobertura: Crotalaria juncea, guandu-anão (Cajanus cajan), Stylosanthes guianensis, Brachiaria brizantha, B. brizantha consorciada com milho (Zea mays), milheto (Pennisetum glaucum), mombaça (Panicum maximum) e Sorghum bicolor foram cultivadas de novembro a abril. Em setembro de cada ano, foi realizado o plantio de feijão, em cultivo irrigado por pivô central. A área útil em cada parcela foi de 60 m². Amostras de solo na forma de monólitos (25x25 cm) foram retiradas aleatoriamente em cada parcela, para contagem da macrofauna, às profundidades de 0-10 cm e 10-20 cm, em abril e em setembro de 2005. Os grupos taxonômicos, identificados em ordem decrescente de densidade relativa, são: Formicidae, Oligochaeta, Dermaptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, Miriapoda, Isoptera, Araneae, Lepidoptera, Blattodea e larvas de Diptera. Crotalaria juncea apresentou maior densidade de macrofauna, seguida por B. Brizantha, B. Brizantha consorciada com milho, Sorghum bicolor, Stylosanthes guianensis, Cajanus Cajans, Pennisetum Glaucum e Panicum maximum. O uso das plantas de cobertura, associado à irrigação na avaliação de setembro, favorece a colonização do solo pela macrofauna.
Zinc adsorption in highly weathered soils
Authors: Casagrande José Carlos , Soares Marcio Roberto , Mouta Ernesto Rinaldi
Published: March 2008

The objective of this work was to assess the effects of pH and ionic strength upon zinc adsorption, in three highly weathered variable charge soils. Adsorption isotherms were elaborated from batch adsorption experiments, with increasing Zn concentrations (0-80 mg L-1), and adsorption envelopes were constructed through soil samples reactions with 0.01, 0.1 and 1 mol L-1 Ca(NO3)2 solutions containing 5 mg L-1 of Zn, with an increasing pH value from 3 to 8. Driving force of reaction was quantified by Gibbs free energy and separation factor. Isotherms were C-, H- and L-type and experimental results were fitted to nonlinear Langmuir model. Maximum adsorption ranged from 59-810 mg kg-1, and Zn affinity was greater in subsoil (0.13-0.81 L kg-1) than in the topsoil samples (0.01-0.34 L kg-1). Zinc adsorption was favorable and spontaneous, and showed sharply increase (20-90%) in the 4-6 pH range. No effect of ionic strength was observed at pH values below 5, because specific adsorption mechanisms predominated in the 3-5 pH range. Above pH 5, and in subsoil samples, Zn was adsorbed by electrostatic mechanisms, since ionic strength effect was observed. Despite depth and ionic strength effects, Zn adsorption depends mainly on the pH.
Endometriose do trato gastrintestinal: correlações clínicas e laparoscópicas
Authors: Sagae Univaldo Etsuo , Lopasso Fábio , Abrão Maurício Simões , Cavalli Namir , Rodrigues Joaquim José Gama
Published: March 2008

Neste estudo, quarenta pacientes selecionadas com endometriose pélvica e utilizando do método videolaparoscópico de corrida dos órgãos peritoneais na endometriose (COPE), puderam verificar se suas queixas encontram-se correlacionadas aos achados de lesões no trato gastrintestinal. O estudo avaliou 21 pacientes com e 19 pacientes sem sinais e sintomas gastrintestinais, visando estabelecer: associações e correlações entre os parâmetros clínicos que sinalizam a presença de focos endometrióticos e as localizações das lesões em cada segmento do trato gastrintestinal (TGI) e a correlação entre o estadiamento da endometriose (ASRM, 1996) e o comprometimento intestinal. A pesquisa atestou, de modo significativo, a correlação entre a presença dos sintomas gastrintestinais em conseqüência das lesões no trato gastrintestinal. Os sinais e sintomas gastrintestinais significativamente relacionados com a presença de endometriose ginecológica localizada no segmento retossigmóide e/ou íleo e com comprometimento do trato gastrintestinal foram: o puxo e o tenesmo cíclico, dor em cólica cíclica, obstipação cíclica, diarréia cíclica, dor acíclica, fezes afiladas e o sangramento intestinal cíclico. O estádio IV (ASRM) correlacionou-se com a presença de endometriose no trato gastrintestinal. O presente estudo demonstrou a correlação positiva dos sinais e sintomas gastrointestinais e ginecológicos e o estadiamento da doença ginecológica com o comprometimento gastrointestinal pela doença.
Influência do tempo de indução nas propriedades de hidroxiapatita porosa obtida por gelcasting de espumas
Authors: Volkmer T. M. , Santos L. A. dos
Published: March 2008

Hidroxiapatita é uma cerâmica bioativa que permite o crescimento de tecido ósseo e revascularização da área implantada pela formação de ligação com a fase mineral dos ossos. Este estudo teve como objetivo a obtenção de blocos porosos de hidroxiapatita através do método gelcasting de espuma, sem a utilização de atmosfera controlada para a realização das polimerizações. O processo gelcasting de espumas consiste na incorporação de uma fase gasosa dispersa dentro de uma suspensão cerâmica contendo o pó cerâmico, água, defloculantes, ligantes e agentes de gelificação. O sistema de gelificação consiste no monômero acrilamida e no co-monômero N,N’ metilenobisacrilamida difuncional (MBAM). Foi estudada a variação das quantidades de iniciador e de acelerador e verificou-se a variação do tempo de indução e seus reflexos nas propriedades da hidroxiapatita porosa. Avaliou-se a porosidade, a macroestrutura, a distribuição de tamanho de poros e a permeabilidade. Verificou-se que é possível controlar a porosidade variando-se o tempo de indução e a ausência de atmosfera controlada não impediu a obtenção das peças porosas.
Produção de pimentão em substratos e fertirrigação com efluente de biodigestor
Authors: Factor Thiago L. , Araújo Jairo A. C. de , Vilella Júnior Luiz V. E.
Published: March 2008

O aproveitamento do efluente de biodigestor em fertirrigação e a utilização do esterco de suínos seco como componente do substrato, ao mesmo tempo em que diminuiriam o custo de produção da cultura do pimentão, evitariam o descarte desses resíduos no meio ambiente. Neste trabalho se objetivou avaliar a produtividade e a qualidade de frutos de pimentão vermelho híbrido 'Margarita' adotando-se o delineamento experimental fatorial 4 x 3 em blocos casualizados, sendo 4 substratos (S1, S2, S3 e S4) e 3 soluções nutritivas: solução nutritiva mineral (SN1), solução nutritiva à base de efluente de biodigestor, complementada com fertilizantes minerais (SN2) e solução nutritiva à base de efluente de biodigestor (SN3). A utilização das diferentes misturas que originaram os respectivos substratos, pode ser recomendada com boas perspectivas de produção e qualidade de frutos, com exceção do S1, que mostrou ser inferior aos demais, em termos de qualidade de frutos. A substituição parcial de fertilizantes minerais pelo efluente de biodigestor à base de dejetos de suínos, não foi suficiente para proporcionar produtividade equivalente à adubação 100% mineral; entretanto, alcançou padrões de qualidade semelhantes e com boa produtividade.
Evapotranspiração e produtividade da mangueira sob diferentes tratamentos de irrigação
Authors: Campos João H. B. da C. , Silva Vicente de P. R. da , Azevedo Pedro V. de , Borges Cícera J. R. , Soares José M. , Moura Magna S. B. de , Silva Bernardo B. da
Published: March 2008

Este trabalho objetivou determinar a evapotranspiração e a produtividade da mangueira e investigar o manejo da irrigação mais apropriado para esta frutífera. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso com quatro tratamentos e quatro repetições; os tratamentos de irrigação foram baseados no coeficiente de cultura de referência (Kcr) como: tratamento T1 (Kcr - 20%), tratamento T2 (Kcr), tratamento T3 (Kcr + 20%) e tratamento T4 (controle). Obteve-se a evapotranspiração do pomar de mangueira por meio do método do balanço hídrico no solo e os componentes de produção, também foram avaliados. A umidade do solo foi estimada com base em doze baterias de tensiômetros de mercúrio posicionadas sob o dossel das plantas, cujas medidas foram realizadas três vezes por semana, às 08, 12 e 16 h. A evapotranspiração do pomar de mangueiras apresentou, durante o seu ciclo produtivo, taxas médias de 3,0; 3,2; 3,6 e 4,0 mm dia-1 mediante os tratamentos T1, T2, T3 e T4, respectivamente; as produtividades máxima e mínima foram de 31,1 e 28,1 t ha-1, nos tratamentos T3 e T4, respectivamente, enquanto o tratamento de irrigação, T3, é o mais apropriado para a região de estudo.
Germination in seed species ingested by opossums: implications for seed dispersal and forest conservation
Authors: Cáceres Nilton Carlos , Monteiro-Filho Emygdio Leite de Araújo
Published: March 2008

Seed germination in plant species consumed by opossums, genus Didelphis, was investigated in southern Brazil, in order to improve knowledge of the strategies of zoochorous plants in the Neotropics. Seeds were obtained from opossum feces. Thirteen of the most frequent species in the diet of local opossums were tested for germination rates and germination responses under different qualities (red/far red ratio) and different intensities of light. Most seeds from feces germinated similarly to the control groups, except for seeds of Rubus rosifolius, which appeared to depend on gut passage. Other experiments revealed that most seeds in the opossums' diet were of pioneer species, with most germination occurring during favorable humid conditions in the rainy season. A few species showed negative photoblastism, or no dormancy pattern. Small mammals are suggested as possible tools for area recuperation programs, through seed dispersal of many pioneer and some shade-tolerant plants, under suitable management.
Bee community of a beach dune ecosystem on Maranhão Island, Brazil
Authors: Albuquerque Patricia Maia Correia de , Camargo João Maria Franco de , Mendonça José Ângelo Cordeiro
Published: March 2008

The bee-plant community in a beach dune ecosystem in north-eastern of Brazil was studied concerning phenology and floral preference. The bees visited thirty-three species of 20 families of plants. The most visited species were Vernonia arenaria (Asteraceae), Chamaecrista hispidula (Caesalpiniaceae), Passiflora foetida (Passifloraceae) and Turnera melochioides (Turneraceae). Fifty-five percent of plants presented an annual or long flowering period (from 5 to 7 months). The largest number of species blooming was observed from March to August (dry season), corresponding to the period of greatest abundance and diversity of bees. Based on the range of floral sources used by the dominant bees, three guilds of bees were noted: bees with a restricted range of floral sources: Melitoma segmentaria, Centris tarsata, Centris flavifrons, Ceratinula sp.; moderate generalists: Megachile (Leptorachis) sp., Euglossa cordata, Augochlorella sp., Eulaema nigrita and Xylocopa frontalis; and generalists: Xylocopa cearensis, Apis mellifera, Exomalopsis analis and Pseudaugochloropsis pandora.
Metodologia para a aplicação da análise topográfica ao estudo de processos de superfície
Authors: Unda Andrés G.R. , Lin Vanessa F.C. , De Godoy Geralda Cristina Durães
Published: March 2008

A deposição de recobrimentos em uma superfície visa a melhoria de determinadas propriedades do material tais como as propriedades químicas e tribológicas. O desgaste pode ser minimizado seja pelo aumento da dureza da superfície seja pela diminuição da adesão entre as superfícies. Atualmente, ferramentas de corte são recobertas com TiN, TiCN e (TiAl)N, através de processos de deposição física a vapor, com o objetivo de aumentar a sua vida útil. Estes recobrimentos são caracterizados por uma alta dureza, excelente aderência, baixa porosidade, alta estabilidade química e térmica, entre outras características. As ferramentas de corte estão sujeitas a processos de degradação também por oxidação e corrosão. Nestes processos, a rugosidade da superfície tem um papel fundamental. O trabalho em questão objetiva o desenvolvimento de uma metodologia para aplicação de análise topográfica tridimensional (3D) ao estudo de processos de oxidação de recobrimentos e de superfícies. Neste estudo, realizou-se a oxidação do conjugado widea / nitreto de titânio e alumínio na faixa de temperaturas de 650ºC a 800ºC, para tempos de até 120 minutos. As amostras foram analisadas por perfilometria antes e após a oxidação. O resultado principal deste trabalho foi o desenvolvimento de uma metodologia de análise topográfica 3D, que pode ser aplicada ao estudo da superfície de materiais. A caracterização mais detalhada da topografia da superfície, usando-se diversos parâmetros além da medida usual de rugosidade, é de fundamental importância para a elucidação dos mecanismos atuantes nos processos de oxidação e corrosão dos materiais.
V Semana Nacional de Conscientização da Epilepsia em Campinas
Authors: Fernandes Paula T. , Noronha Ana Lúcia A. , Gimenez Pablo , Coan Ana Carolina , Ling Li Hui , Li Li M.
Published: March 2008

Epilepsia é uma condição neurológica crônica prevalente e, apesar do tratamento adequado controlar aproximadamente 70% dos casos, é muito comum, ainda nos dias de hoje, ouvirmos mitos e crenças sobre epilepsia. Para reverter esta situação, o Projeto Demonstrativo da Campanha Global " Epilepsia fora das sombras" , da OMS/ILAE/IBE, trouxe mudanças importantes em nossa sociedade, entre elas o engajamento das associações de epilepsia em nosso país. Uma das atividades deste movimento nacional é a realização da Semana Nacional de Conscientização de Epilepsia, que acontece todos os anos na semana do dia 09 de setembro. O objetivo é conscientizar a sociedade sobre a epilepsia e tentar lidar com o preconceito existente. A ASPE realiza esta Semana desde 2003 e os resultados trazem importante fortalecimento ao movimento nacional para tirar a epilepsia das sombras e melhorar a qualidade de vida das pessoas com epilepsia e suas famílias.
Online Threaded Discussions: Purposes, Goals, and Objectives
Authors: Maurino Paula San Millan , Federman Francine , Greenwald Lorraine
Published: March 2008

The purpose of this study was to understand the perspectives of instructors as they participate in an online classroom setting. It sought to find the purposes, goals, and objectives set by online instructors for the utilization of threaded discussions. The methodology employed was qualitative. A case study of a public two-year and four-year degree granting college was conducted. Thirty online instructors were interviewed in-depth. These interviews were triangulated with analysis of “starter” discussion questions, class database transcripts, and focus groups from private colleges. Findings showed that most instructors set interwoven cognitive and social goals for their classes and wanted to create a social environment conducive to student learning from each other, the instructor, and course materials. These goals were not always met and only 47% of the instructors considered their discussions successful. Most instructors did not participate in the discussions after posting the initial starter question. Teacher presence was not evident in the discussions. Instructors were intent on replicating their face-to-face class online in the selection of textbooks, grading policies, and learning activities. Threaded discussions were considered very successful for evaluation and assessment purposes and transmittal of simultaneous information. Recommendations included changing the mindset of faculty and administrators about perpetuation of the classroom genre online and modifying learning activities, methods, schedules, and policy to better serve students and faculty in the virtual environment.
The Homeless Professor in Second Life
Authors: Pence Harry E.
Published: March 2008

The virtual online world called Second Life can be deceptive. It looks like a game, but the participants are not assigned goals. Indeed, it may be said that the goal of Second Life is to create one's own goals. As a result, the residents of Second Life choose to work in many different directions. Some choose to develop land; some try to earn money; some try to learn how to create objects; and, frankly, some pursue a life of total hedonism. This article describes the experiences of one faculty member who decided to work toward two goals, learning more about teaching in a virtual space and having interesting conversations with the many talented and fascinating people who inhabit Second Life. In the absence of campus support, the author chose to accept the image of the homeless professor. These experiences provide a background for discussing teaching in a virtual world. Finally, this article will attempt a more general review of the advantages and disadvantages of education in Second Life.
Transforming the Design of Overheads and Their Impact on Learning
Authors: Kahn Russell L.
Published: March 2008

The present study investigated the value of changing the format of overhead presentations from one dominated by headings and bulleted lists to one using a sentence assertion followed by visual evidence. A review of the literature of earlier studies on the subject of traditional overhead projections noted criticism of the traditional format. Recent studies showing improved comprehension and higher retention rates when using the revamped style. Additionally, the case study discussed here found improved quality of class discourse and a higher quality of discussions online. By reviewing education theory, the author looks at why students' learning might improve using this new format as the new design moves away from a teacher-centric learning modality to a student-dominated one.
The Importance of Emotional Usability
Authors: Shih Yi-Hsuen , Liu Min
Published: March 2008

As technology evolves rapidly, users of technology products and interactive computing systems are no longer only satisfied with the levels of product efficiency and effectiveness. Users are also looking for emotional satisfaction from using and interacting with the products. With powerful interactive features technology can potentially deliver more and more technology products and interactive computing systems are developed toward satisfying users both efficiently and emotionally. This article reviews different emotions incorporated into usability and design for technology products and interactive computing systems; and discusses the importance of emotional usability and the need for it.
A New Case-Finding Tool for Anxiety: A Pragmatic Diagnostic Validity Study in Primary Care
Authors: Puddifoot Sophie , Arroll Bruce , Goodyear-Smith Felicity A. , Kerse Ngaire M. , Fishman Tana G. , Gunn Jane M.
Published: March 2008

Objective:

Anxiety is common in the community and in family practice (FP) patients. It is a treatable condition but often not diagnosed. The aim of this study was to determine the validity of two written questions to aid family physicians in the identification of anxiety. The first question asks the patient whether they have been worrying a lot during the past month; and the second question asks whether the patient would like help with this problem.

Methods:

The study was a pragmatic cross sectional validity study conducted with 19 family physicians in six clinics in New Zealand. The outcomes were the sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios compared with the HADS anxiety score ≥ 11 as a gold standard.

Results:

The study recruited 982 consecutive patients receiving no psychotropic drugs. The FP diagnosis had a sensitivity of 58% (95% CI 45% to 69%) and a specificity of 87% (95% CI 85 to 89). The worry question alone had a sensitivity of 76% (95% CI 64% to 85%) and a specificity of 82% (95% CI 79% to 84%). The positive likelihood ratio for patients wanting help today was 9.29 (95% CI 5.62 to 15.36). The likelihood ratio for patients worrying but not wanting help was 2.29 (95% CI 1.48 to 3.55). The likelihood ratio (negative) for those not worrying was 0.29(95% CI 0.18 to 0.46).

Conclusions:

The use of a case-finding question for anxiety and a question asking whether help is wanted increases the positive likelihood ratio indicating that the use of the two questions may aid family physicians in identifying cases of anxiety.
Assessing the Biopsychosociospiritual Model in Primary Care: Development of the Biopsychosociospiritual Inventory (BioPSSI)
Authors: Katerndahl David , Oyiriaru Daniel
Published: March 2008

Objective:

There is growing evidence in support of the Biopsychosociospiritual Model. However, a cohesive instrument to measure each dimension in terms of its dimension-specific symptoms and functional status does not exist, serving as an obstacle to future research in this area. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an instrument to measure each dimension in terms of its dimension-specific symptoms, appraisals, and functional status in an unselected group of primary care patients.

Method:

An instrument that assessed biopsychosociospiritual symptoms and function and health outcomes was administered to 289 patients attending two primary care clinics. Responses were analyzed using principal component factor analysis with Equimax rotation. This led to the development of five Biopsychosociospiritual Inventory scales (impaired functional status, physical symptoms, psychological symptoms, social symptoms, and spiritual symptoms). Demographic differences in mean scale scores were sought. In addition to internal consistency, construct validity was assessed based upon dimension-specific health care utilization, life satisfaction, and perceived health status.

Results:

All five scales had excellent internal consistency (alpha > 0.8) and construct validity. Differences were strongly related to income, marital status, and employment in a manner consistent with previous research.

Conclusions:

This study developed and validated the Biopsychosociospiritual Inventory which could potentially provide a holistic estimate of the impact of disease and its treatment, support research in this area, and lead to the expansion of classification systems that include spirituality. Further validation of this instrument in other primary care sites using diverse patient populations as well as its function over time is needed.
Tic Exacerbation and Precipitation during Atomoxetine Treatment in Two Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Párraga Humberto C. , Párraga Marianela I. , Harris David K.
Published: March 2008

Stimulants have been the mainstay of treatment for children with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, stimulants have been controversially purported to precipitate and exacerbate tics. Atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine inhibitor, was introduced as a safe non-stimulant alternative treatment for ADHD children with comorbid tics or TS. We are presenting two children with ADHD, in which atomoxetine, at relatively low doses, exacerbated and precipitated tics. The diagnoses of ADHD and tic disorder were based on clinical observations and standardized rating scales. Case 1, an 8-year-old boy, had history of stimulant-induced tics. This child was placed on atomoxetine reported to be safe for patients with tics. This patient's tic control was adequate prior to atomoxetine treatment. However, while on atomoxetine, the patient promptly experienced tic exacerbation. Case 2, a 6-year-old boy, had no previous history of stimulant therapy and was receiving citalopram due to a comorbid anxiety disorder. Atomoxetine was initiated for the treatment of ADHD with improvement in the ADHD symptoms. But, upon a mild dose increase, the patient presented tic precipitation consisting primarily of neck twitches. Both cases experienced a decrease in tic activity when atomoxetine was discontinued, but tics did not fully resolve, causing psychosocial disturbance. Atypical neuroleptics were used with good results. Periodic assessments of the need for continued neuroleptic treatment were emphasized. These two children exemplify atomoxetine's potential to exacerbate and precipitate tics in children with ADHD. Independent controlled studies are needed to determine if atomoxetine should be used in children with ADHD and comorbid tic disorders or TS.
Elevated Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Phosphorylation Induces Resistance Artery Dysfunction in Diabetic db/db Mice
Authors: Belmadani Souad , Palen Desiree I. , Gonzalez-Villalobos Romer A. , Boulares Hamid A. , Matrougui Khalid
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE— We previously showed epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) transactivation to be key mechanism in the regulation of resistance artery myogenic tone. Type 2 diabetes is associated with microvascular complications. We hypothesized that elevated EGFR phosphorylation contributes to resistance artery dysfunction in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS AND RESULTS— Diabetic db/db and nondiabetic (control) mice were treated with EGFR inhibitor (AG1478; 10 mg · kg−1 · day−1) for 2 weeks. Isolated coronary artery and mesenteric resistance artery (MRA) were mounted in an arteriograph. Pressure-induced myogenic tone was increased in MRA and coronary artery from diabetic mice and normalized by AG1478. Phenylephrine-induced contraction and nitric oxide donor–induced relaxation were similar in all groups. Endothelium-dependent relaxation in response to shear stress and acetylcholine of MRA and coronary artery from diabetic mice was altered and associated with reduced endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression and phosphorylation. Treated diabetic mice with AG1478 improved coronary artery and MRA endothelial function and restored eNOS expression. Immunostaining and Western blot analysis showed increased endothelial and smooth muscle cell EGFR phosphorylation of MRA and coronary artery from diabetic mouse, which was reduced by AG1478. Primary cultured endothelial cells from resistance arteries treated with high glucose for 48 h showed an increase of EGFR phosphorylation associated with eNOS expression and phosphorylation decrease in response to calcium ionophore. Pretreatment of endothelial cells with AG1478 prevented the effect of high glucose.

CONCLUSIONS— This study provides evidence of the role of elevated EGFR phosphorylation in coronary artery and MRA dysfunction in diabetic db/db mice. Therefore, EGFR should be a potential target for overcoming diabetic small artery complications.
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in pregnancy induced hypertension
Authors: Biswas Arijit , Choolani Mahesh A. , Anandakumar Chinnayia , Arulkumaran Sabaratnam
Published: March 2008

Objective. To determine the role of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in the diagnosis of pregnancy‐induced hypertension in women detected as hypertensive in the clinic by the conventional method.

Design. An observational study of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Setting. A teaching hospital in Singapore.

Methods. One hundred and twenty‐eight women between 28‐37 weeks of pregnancy diagnosed to have non‐proteinuric pregnancy‐induced hypertension in the clinic had 24 hours ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. The mean systolic and diastolic BP, systolic and diastolic ‘white coat effect’ and the diastolic load were the main parameters noted.

Results. One hundred and twenty subjects had valid recordings. Only 46 (38.3%) were found to be truly hypertensive on ABP monitoring, using a mean diastolic pressure cut off of 85 mmHg. The ‘white‐coat effect’ was seen in both groups of women ‐ the hypertensives as well as the normotensives, although the magnitude of the white coat effect had poor correlation with the clinic diastolic BR A cut‐off value for diastolic load of 20 per cent was found to detect all hypertensives correctly (sensitivity 100%) with a modest false positive rate of 17.5 per cent.

Conclusions. ‘White‐coat hypertension’ is common in pregnancy and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring would be helpful in identifying the true hypertensive without requiring unnecessary hospitalization.
Stillbirth and maternal well‐being
Authors: Rädestad Ingela , Sjögren Berit , Nordin Conny , Steineck Gunnar
Published: March 2008

Background. Stillbirth imposes severe strains on the mother. Little is known about the long‐term well‐being after such an experience.

Methods. The study population comprises 380 women who experienced stillbirth and 379 control women with a livebirth in 1991. Data were collected by a postal questionnaire in 1994 in a nationwide study in Sweden. The response rate was 84%.

Results. The index women stated more often than controls that they had an improved relationship with the baby' father at the time of follow‐up than before the child' birth, the ratio of proportions (with 95% confidence interval) of women with an improved relationship being 1.8 (1.4‐2.2). The corresponding figure for high satisfaction with home and family situation at the time of the survey was 1.3 (1.1‐1.6) and 3.7 (1.6‐8.3) for low satisfaction with the appreciation they encountered outside the home. The cumulative incidence of separation/divorce after a stillbirth was the same as after a livebirth, 8%. Marital status strongly modified the results; for single women the ratio of proportions (stillbirth compared to livebirth) for an improved relationship with the baby' father was 0.2 (0.0‐1.4) and for high satisfaction with home and family situation 0.1 (0.0‐0.9).

Conclusions. Stillbirth increases satisfaction with the relationship with the baby' father and the home and family situation, but it decreases maternal satisfaction of appreciation by others outside of the home. This traumatic experience does not affect the risk of separation/divorce, but single women are at risk of social complications after stillbirth, and psychosocial support may be appropriate for this subgroup.
Markers of intravascular coagulation and fibrinolysis in preeclampsia: association with intrauterine growth retardation
Authors: Schjetlein Rune , Haugen Guttorm , Wisløff Finn
Published: March 2008

Background. Alterations in blood coagulation and fibrinolysis are believed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Hypercoagulability may be associated with features seen in preeclampsia, such as fibrin deposition in various organs, consumptive thrombocytopenia, and placental hypoperfusion, insufficiency and infarction.

Methods. In this cohort study, we compared the plasma levels of markers of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis in preeclamptic women to normotensive, pregnant controls. We also studied the association between these markers and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).

Results. In both mild and severe preeclampsia, the mean plasma concentrations of thrombin‐antithrombin III complex (TAT) and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI‐1) activity were significantly increased, while fibrinogen, antithrombin III (ATIII) and plasminogen activator inhibitor type‐2 (PAI‐2) antigen levels were significantly reduced compared to controls. Plasma D‐dimer concentration was significantly higher in severe, but not in mild preeclampsia compared to the controls. The plasma level of fibrin monomer was similar in patients and controls. Patients with preeclampsia delivering growth retarded infants had significantly lower PAI‐1 activity and PAI‐2 antigen concentrations in plasma than the remaining preeclamptic women.

Conclusions. We found evidence of increased intravascular coagulation and fibrin turnover in preeclampsia. Low PAI‐2 antigen plasma levels were associated with severe preeclampsia and IUGR.