bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Women with endometriosis improved their peripheral antioxidant markers after the application of a high antioxidant diet
Authors: Mier-Cabrera Jennifer , Aburto-Soto Tania , Burrola-Méndez Soraya , Jiménez-Zamudio Luis , Tolentino Mari C , Casanueva Esther , Hernández-Guerrero César
Published: May 2009

Background

Oxidative stress has been identified in the peritoneal fluid and peripheral blood of women with endometriosis. However, there is little information on the antioxidant intake for this group of women. The objectives of this work were 1) to compare the antioxidant intake among women with and without endometriosis and 2) to design and apply a high antioxidant diet to evaluate its capacity to reduce oxidative stress markers and improve antioxidant markers in the peripheral blood of women with endometriosis.

Methods

Women with (WEN, n = 83) and without endometriosis (WWE, n = 80) were interviewed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire to compare their antioxidant intake (of vitamins and minerals). Then, the WEN participated in the application of a control (n = 35) and high antioxidant diet (n = 37) for four months. The high antioxidant diet (HAD) guaranteed the intake of 150% of the suggested daily intake of vitamin A (1050 μg retinol equivalents), 660% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C (500 mg) and 133% of the RDI of vitamin E (20 mg). Oxidative stress and antioxidant markers (vitamins and antioxidant enzymatic activity) were determined in plasma every month.

Results

Comparison of antioxidant intake between WWE and WEN showed a lower intake of vitamins A, C, E, zinc, and copper by WEN (p < 0.05, Mann Whitney Rank test). The selenium intake was not statistically different between groups. During the study, the comparison of the 24-hour recalls between groups showed a higher intake of the three vitamins in the HAD group. An increase in the vitamin concentrations (serum retinol, alpha-tocopherol, leukocyte and plasma ascorbate) and antioxidant enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) as well as a decrease in oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde and lipid hydroperoxides) were observed in the HAD group after two months of intervention. These phenomena were not observed in the control group.

Conclusion

WEN had a lower intake of antioxidants in comparison to WWE. Peripheral oxidative stress markers diminished, and antioxidant markers were enhanced, in WEN after the application of the HAD.
NF-κB Mediated Enhancement of Potassium Currents by the Chemokine CXCL1/Growth Related Oncogene in Small Diameter Rat Sensory Neurons
Authors: Yang Rui-Hua , Strong Judith A , Zhang Jun-Ming
Published: May 2009

Background

Inflammatory processes play important roles in both neuropathic and inflammatory pain states, but the effects of inflammation per se within the sensory ganglia are not well understood. The cytokine growth-related oncogene (GRO/KC; CXCL1) shows strong, rapid upregulation in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) in both nerve injury and inflammatory pain models. We examined the direct effects of GRO/KC on small diameter DRG neurons, which are predominantly nociceptive. Whole cell voltage clamp technique was used to measure voltage-activated potassium (K) currents in acutely cultured adult rat small diameter sensory neurons. Fluorescently labeled isolectin B4 (IB4) was used to classify cells as IB4-positive or IB4-negative.

Results

In IB4-negative neurons, voltage-activated K current densities of both transient and sustained components were increased after overnight incubation with GRO/KC (1.5 nM), without marked changes in voltage dependence or kinetics. The average values for the slow and fast decay time constants at 20 mV were unchanged by GRO/KC. The amplitude of the fast inactivating component increased significantly with no large shifts in the voltage dependence of inactivation. The increase in K currents was completely blocked by co-incubation with protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide (CHX) or NF-κB inhibitors pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) or quinazoline (6-Amino-4-(4-phenoxypheny lethylamino;QNZ). In contrast, the voltage-activated K current of IB4-positive neurons was unchanged by GRO/KC. GRO/KC incubation caused no significant changes in the expression level of eight selected voltage-gated K channel genes in quantitative PCR analysis.

Conclusion

The results suggest that GRO/KC has important effects in inflammatory processes via its direct actions on sensory neurons, and that activation of NF-κB is involved in the GRO/KC-induced enhancement of K currents.
Electrical impedance tomography compared to positron emission tomography for the measurement of regional lung ventilation: an experimental study
Authors: Richard JC , Pouzot C , Gros A , Tourevieille C , Lebars D , Lavenne F , Frerichs I , Guérin C
Published: May 2009

Introduction

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT), which can assess regional lung ventilation at the bedside, has never been compared with positron-emission tomography (PET), a gold-standard to quantify regional ventilation. This experiment systematically compared both techniques in injured and non-injured lungs.

Methods

The study was performed in six mechanically ventilated female piglets. In normal lungs, tidal volume (VT) was randomly changed to 6, 8, 10 and 15 ml/kg on zero end-expiratory pressure (ZEEP), then, at VT 10 ml/kg, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) was randomly changed to 5, 10 and 15 cmH2O. Afterwards, acute lung injury (ALI) was subsequently created in three animals by injecting 3 ml/kg hydrochloric acid into the trachea. Then at PEEP 5 cmH2O, VT was randomly changed to 8 and 12 ml/kg and PEEP of 10 and 15 cmH2O applied at VT 10 ml/kg. EIT and PET examinations were performed simultaneously. EIT ventilation (VTEIT) and lung volume (VL) were measured in the anterior and posterior area of each lung. On the same regions of interest, ventilation (VPET) and aerated lung volume (VAatten) were determined with PET.

Results

On ZEEP, VTEIT and VPET significantly correlated for global (VTEIT = VPET - 2E-13, R2 = 0.95, P < 0.001) and regional (VTEIT = 0.81VPET+7.65, R2 = 0.63, P < 0.001) ventilation over both conditions. For ALI condition, corresponding R2 were 0.91 and 0.73 (P < 0.01). Bias was = 0 and limits of agreement were -37.42 and +37.42 ml/min for global ventilation over both conditions. These values were 0.04 and -29.01 and +29.08 ml/min, respectively, for regional ventilation. Significant correlations were also found between VL and VAatten for global (VL = VAatten+1E-12, R2 = 0.93, P < 0.0001) and regional (VL = 0.99VAatten+0.92, R2 = 0.65, P < 0.001) volume. For ALI condition, corresponding R2 were 0.94 (P < 0.001) and 0.54 (P < 0.05). Bias was = 0 and limits of agreement ranged -38.16 and +38.16 ml for global ventilation over both conditions. These values were -0.24 and -31.96 to +31.48 ml, respectively, for regional ventilation.

Conclusions

Regional lung ventilation and volume were accurately measured with EIT in healthy and injured lungs and validated by simultaneous PET imaging.
Quality of medical care for people with and without comorbid
mental illness and substance misuse: systematic review of comparative
studies
Authors: Mitchell Alex J. , Malone Darren , Doebbeling Caroline Carney
Published: May 2009

Background

There has been long-standing concern about the quality of medical care
offered to people with mental illness.

Aims

To investigate whether the quality of medical care received by people
with mental health conditions, including substance misuse, differs from
the care received by people who have no comparable mental disorder.

Method

A systematic review of studies that examined the quality of medical care
in those with and without mental illness was conducted using robust
critical appraisal techniques.

Results

Of 31 valid studies, 27 examined receipt of medical care in those with
and without mental illness and 10 examined medical care in those with and
without substance use disorder (or dual diagnosis). Nineteen of 27 and 10
of 10, respectively, suggested inferior quality of care in at least one
domain. Twelve studies found no appreciable differences in care or failed
to detect a difference in at least one key area. Several studies showed
an increase in healthcare utilisation but without any increase in
quality. Three studies found superior care for individuals with mental
illness in specific subdomains. There was inadequate information
concerning patient satisfaction and structural differences in healthcare
delivery. There was also inadequate separation of delivery of care from
uptake in care on which to base causal explanations.

Conclusions

Despite similar or more frequent medical contacts, there are often
disparities in the physical healthcare delivered to those with
psychiatric illness although the magnitude of this effect varies
considerably.

There is strong evidence to support inequalities in medical care
disadvantaging those who have a psychiatric illness or a substance use
disorder. Despite promising approaches to shared care there is a
substantial gap in routine medical care for many individuals with mental
illness or substance use disorders.2,99,100 This is most
apparent in general (internal) medicine and cardiovascular care but may
also be present in diabetes care and cancer care. There is little
evidence to suggest that the recommended enhanced medical care for
individuals with mental illness has been successfully implemented. Future
work must focus on the type and severity of mental illness, patient
factors such as adherence and systems interventions to increase the
quality of care for those with chronic mental illness.
Heinichen, Rameau, and the Italian Thoroughbass Tradition
Authors: Holtmeier Ludwig
Published: May 2009

This essay explores the understanding of tonality and in particular the concept of chord, as demonstrated in the Italian thoroughbass tradition, especially in the didactic tradition of partimenti. For a long time this tradition was entirely overlooked because of the dominance of the neo-Ramellian Harmonielehre tradition. The differences are exemplified by comparing Rameau's basse fondamentale with Heinichen's fluctuating understanding of tonality. It was Heinichen who, at the start of the eighteenth century, attempted most thoroughly to conceptualize Italian music theory. Like Rameau, he, too, developed an overarching explanatory model of harmony that involves coherent concepts of harmonic functionality and chord morphology. Heinichen's and Rameau's “systems,” however, rest on opposing assumptions. However many speculative aspects it may embrace, Heinichen's music theory nonetheless remains directly indebted to musical practice and consistently rejects that esprit du système that is so characteristic of Rameau's theory. While Rameau, acting in the modern, scientific spirit of the early Enlightenment, attempts to derive all aspects of his theory from a few fundamental principles, Heinichen works through the many tensions and contradictions between the modern Klang progression, as formalized in the Rule of the Octave, and the old legacy of traditional counterpoint instruction.
KGF and EGF signalling block hair follicle induction and promote interfollicular epidermal fate in developing mouse skin
Authors: Richardson Gavin D. , Bazzi Hisham , Fantauzzo Katherine A. , Waters James M. , Crawford Heather , Hynd Phil , Christiano Angela M. , Jahoda Colin A. B.
Published: May 2009

A key initial event in hair follicle morphogenesis is the localised thickening of the skin epithelium to form a placode, partitioning future hair follicle epithelium from interfollicular epidermis. Although many developmental signalling pathways are implicated in follicle morphogenesis,the role of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF,also known as FGF7) receptors are not defined. EGF receptor (EGFR) ligands have previously been shown to inhibit developing hair follicles; however, the underlying mechanisms have not been characterised. Here we show that receptors for EGF and KGF undergo marked downregulation in hair follicle placodes from multiple body sites, whereas the expression of endogenous ligands persist throughout hair follicle initiation. Using embryonic skin organ culture, we show that when skin from the sites of primary pelage and whisker follicle development is exposed to increased levels of two ectopic EGFR ligands (HBEGF and amphiregulin) and the FGFR2(IIIb) receptor ligand KGF, follicle formation is inhibited in a time- and dose-dependent manner. We then used downstream molecular markers and microarray profiling to provide evidence that, in response to KGF and EGF signalling, epidermal differentiation is promoted at the expense of hair follicle fate. We propose that hair follicle initiation in placodes requires downregulation of the two pathways in question, both of which are crucial for the ongoing development of the interfollicular epidermis. We have also uncovered a previously unrecognised role for KGF signalling in the formation of hair follicles in the mouse.
Hedgehog-stimulated stem cells depend on non-canonical activity of the Notch co-activator Mastermind
Authors: Vied Cynthia , Kalderon Daniel
Published: May 2009

Normal self-renewal of follicle stem cells (FSCs) in the Drosophila ovary requires Hedgehog (Hh) signaling. Excess Hh signaling, induced by loss of patched (ptc), causes cell-autonomous duplication of FSCs. We have used a genetic screen to identify Mastermind (Mam), the Notch pathway transcriptional co-activator, as a rare dose-dependent modifier of aberrant FSC expansion induced by excess Hh. Complete loss of Mam activity severely compromises the persistence of both normal and ptc mutant FSCs, but does not affect the maintenance of ovarian germline stem cells. Thus, Mam, like Hh, is a crucial stem cell factor that acts selectively on FSCs in the ovary. Surprisingly, other Notch pathway components, including Notch itself, are not similarly required for FSC maintenance. Furthermore, excess Notch pathway activity alone accelerates FSC loss and cannot ameliorate the more severe defects of mam mutant FSCs. This suggests an unconventional role for Mam in FSCs that is independent of Notch signaling. Loss of Mam reduces the expression of a Hh pathway reporter in FSCs but not in wing discs, suggesting that Mam might enhance Hh signaling specifically in stem cells of the Drosophila ovary.
Honest and dishonest communication in social Hymenoptera
Authors: Heinze J. , d'Ettorre P.
Published: May 2009

Communication in social insects usually serves the good of the whole society and thus increases the inclusive fitness of all individuals. Hence,cheating and dishonesty are not expected when nestmates are to be alarmed or recruited to food sources. However, kin selection predicts a conflict of interest among individuals about the partitioning of reproduction. Dishonest communication may then be advantageous. Workers usually do not lay eggs in the presence of a fertile queen, but in many species they do so when the queen is removed. This effect has been explained by manipulative, i.e. dishonest, queen control or honest fertility signalling. Numerous studies have documented qualitative and quantitative differences in the pheromone blends of reproductives and non-reproductives. We examine these data for signs of honest signalling, conflict and manipulation.
A conserved motif of vertebrate Y RNAs essential for chromosomal DNA replication
Authors: Gardiner Timothy J. , Christov Christo P. , Langley Alexander R. , Krude Torsten
Published: May 2009

Noncoding Y RNAs are required for the reconstitution of chromosomal DNA replication in late G1 phase template nuclei in a human cell-free system. Y RNA genes are present in all vertebrates and in some isolated nonvertebrates, but the conservation of Y RNA function and key determinants for its function are unknown. Here, we identify a determinant of Y RNA function in DNA replication, which is conserved throughout vertebrate evolution. Vertebrate Y RNAs are able to reconstitute chromosomal DNA replication in the human cell-free DNA replication system, but nonvertebrate Y RNAs are not. A conserved nucleotide sequence motif in the double-stranded stem of vertebrate Y RNAs correlates with Y RNA function. A functional screen of human Y1 RNA mutants identified this conserved motif as an essential determinant for reconstituting DNA replication in vitro. Double-stranded RNA oligonucleotides comprising this RNA motif are sufficient to reconstitute DNA replication, but corresponding DNA or random sequence RNA oligonucleotides are not. In intact cells, wild-type hY1 or the conserved RNA duplex can rescue an inhibition of DNA replication after RNA interference against hY3 RNA. Therefore, we have identified a new RNA motif that is conserved in vertebrate Y RNA evolution, and essential and sufficient for Y RNA function in human chromosomal DNA replication.
The effect of causal chain length on counterfactual conditional reasoning
Authors: Beck Sarah R. , Riggs Kevin J. , Gorniak Sarah L.
Published: May 2009

We investigated German and Nichols' finding that 3‐year‐olds could answer counterfactual conditional questions about short causal chains of events, but not long. In four experiments (N =192), we compared 3‐ and 4‐year‐olds' performance on short and long causal chain questions, manipulating whether the child could draw on general knowledge to answer. We failed to replicate German and Nichols' result, finding instead that in two experiments (Experiments 1 and 3) there was no difference in performance on short and long causal chain questions and in two experiments (Experiments 2 and 4) children showed the opposite pattern: short causal chain questions were more difficult than long. These two unexpected patterns of results were replicated in a fifth study (N =97). Children with lower language ability found short causal chains more difficult than long. Performance by children with higher language ability was unaffected by the length of the causal chain they had to consider. We found no evidence that children showed precocious counterfactual thinking when asked about recent events in a causal chain and conclude that counterfactual thinking develops after 4 years of age.
Hyper-Islamism? Mediating Islam from the halal website to the Islamic talk show
Authors: Echchaibi Nabil
Published: May 2009

Islam is going through a fundamental diffusion of religious knowledge and authority. Media technologies like the Web and satellite television are facilitating the emergence of a new breadth of Islam in the public sphere in Muslim societies and amongst Muslims in diaspora. Deeply influenced
by the global and local dynamics of consumer culture, the proponents of this new Islam are more media-savvy and less dogmatic on how Islam should be mediated than their conservative counterparts. Unlike in the politically engaged Islam, the architects of this new trend are younger Muslims
with more business skills than religious knowledge. From websites advertising the latest fashions in Islamic dress and others offering halal versions of non-Islamic foods such as the Italian salami, the German sausage or McDonald's burger to television shows encouraging Muslims to use their
religion as a success formula for spiritual self-fulfilment and material achievement, the new economic liberalism of Islam is certainly modern in its mediation, but is its substance as liberal as the form? This article examines how the new religious media are constructing the image of the
modern Muslim and what kind of religious identities and subjectivities emerge as a result of a purely material consumption that is religiously committed. My analysis is based on a textual analysis of a popular Islamic television show on Iqra', a 24-hour Saudi religious channel that prides
itself in being the first Islamic entertainment television station.
Thrombotic disease in cancer patients1
Authors: Hart Christina , Andreesen Reinhard , Hahn Joachim R.
Published: May 2009

Venous thromboembolism is a frequent complication in cancer patients and represents an important cause of morbidity and mortality. The risk of thrombosis depends on the specific type of malignancy and the presence of distant metastases. Furthermore, chemotherapeutic regimens and hormonal therapy as well as surgery and hospitalisation are associated with an increased rate of thromboembolism. The pathogenesis of the hypercoagulable state of malignancy involves the activation of endothelial cells and the release of tumour-associated procoagulants (tissue factor) and cytokines. Tumours can lead to uncommon sites of thrombosis by external compression of vessels and vascular invasion. Thrombosis of the hepatic vein or portal vein may be associated with myeloproliferative disorders. Due to the higher risk of thrombosis, hospitalised cancer patients should receive sufficient thromboprophylaxis. The treatment of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients is more challenging compared to the general medical population, as cancer patients have an increased risk of recurrent thrombosis, and of bleeding complications, especially in advanced cancer.
Echtzeitanpassung des klassischen Riccati-ReglersReal-Time Adaption of the Classical Riccati-Controller
Authors: Büskens Christof
Published: May 2009

Optimalregler, wie etwa der klassische Linear-Quadratische-Regulator (LQR), haben sich in der Vergangenheit als eine sehr hilfreiche Technik in vielen Anwendungsbereichen erwiesen; sie sind hinreichend robust und in der Lage, viele Abweichungen zwischen Simulation und Realität zu kompensieren. Ungeachtet dessen sind diese Regler jedoch nicht mehr optimal, sofern Abweichungen oder Störungen in den allgemeinen systembeschreibenden Parametern auftreten. Aus diesem Grund wird nachfolgend eine numerische Methode vorgestellt, die auf der parametrischen Sensitivitätsanalyse nichtlinearer Optimierungsprobleme basiert und die in der Lage ist, Näherungen höherer Ordnung des Rückkopplungsgesetzes in Echtzeit zu berechnen. Das bekannte Problem des inversen Pendels wird als Anwendungsfall untersucht.
Science and Smart GraphicsWissenschaft und intelligente Grafiken
Authors: Fisher Brian
Published: May 2009

As the field of informatics matures, the range of disciplines that contribute to our understanding of information systems and their use must increase. The International Symposium on Smart Graphics is one of the pioneers of this interdisciplinary scholarship of computation. The highly interactive workshop format includes participants from cognitive and perceptual sciences, art and design, and the humanities as well as the more familiar disciplines of human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence and computer graphics. This paper describes how the new science of visual analytics has built upon the interdisciplinary conversations that events such as Smart Graphics began. This new field of research holds a great deal of promise for a variety of application areas, and serves as an example of how the Smart Graphics approach can support other emerging fields of study.
A Brief History and Typology of the African Reformation
Authors: Tishken Joel E.
Published: May 2009

This introductory essay elucidates the three phases of new African Christianity: Ethiopian churches, Zionist churches, and African Pentecostalism. In so doing, it provides a basic typology and history of the African Reformation, while simultaneously contextualizing the articles in this collection. Articles in this special issue, unlike much previous scholarship, explains African churches on their own internal terms, rather than external Western ones.
Is it Too Late Baby? Pinpointing the Emergence of a Black-White Test Score Gap in Infancy
Authors: Rippeyoung Phyllis L. F.
Published: May 2009

This research attempts to uncover when the black-white test score gap begins and why it exists by examining a nationally representative sample of infants using the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study–Birth Cohort. The findings demonstrate that there is a small raw gap in cognitive skills between the infants of white and black mothers in the United States. However, through structural equation modeling, results show that when one controls for social, human, and financial capital and for differences in health and type of child care, the infants of African American mothers would score higher than the infants of white mothers because of their precocious motor development. Social capital and low birth weight are found to be key mediators of the small black-white test score gap in infancy.
Modeling Multiallelic Selection Using a Moran Model
Authors: Muirhead Christina A , Wakeley John
Published: May 2009

We present a Moran-model approach to modeling general multiallelic selection in a finite population and show how it may be used to develop theoretical models of biological systems of balancing selection such as plant gametophytic self-incompatibility loci. We propose new expressions for the stationary distribution of allele frequencies under selection and use them to show that the continuous-time Markov chain describing allele frequency change with exchangeable selection and Moran-model reproduction is reversible. We then use the reversibility property to derive the expected allele frequency spectrum in a finite population for several general models of multiallelic selection. Using simulations, we show that our approach is valid over a broader range of parameters than previous analyses of balancing selection based on diffusion approximations to the Wright–Fisher model of reproduction. Our results can be applied to any model of multiallelic selection in which fitness is solely a function of allele frequency.
Mapping in Structured Populations by Resample Model Averaging
Authors: Valdar William , Holmes Christopher C , Mott Richard , Flint Jonathan
Published: May 2009

Highly recombinant populations derived from inbred lines, such as advanced intercross lines and heterogeneous stocks, can be used to map loci far more accurately than is possible with standard intercrosses. However, the varying degrees of relatedness that exist between individuals complicate analysis, potentially leading to many false positive signals. We describe a method to deal with these problems that does not require pedigree information and accounts for model uncertainty through model averaging. In our method, we select multiple quantitative trait loci (QTL) models using forward selection applied to resampled data sets obtained by nonparametric bootstrapping and subsampling. We provide model-averaged statistics about the probability of loci or of multilocus regions being included in model selection, and this leads to more accurate identification of QTL than by single-locus mapping. The generality of our approach means it can potentially be applied to any population of unknown structure.
Sexual Isolation in Acinetobacter baylyi Is Locus-Specific and Varies 10,000-Fold Over the Genome
Authors: Ray Jessica L , Harms Klaus , Wikmark Odd-Gunnar , Starikova Irina , Johnsen Pål J , Nielsen Kaare M
Published: May 2009

Naturally transformable bacteria acquire chromosomal DNA from related species at lower frequencies than from cognate DNA sources. To determine how genome location affects heterogamic transformation in bacteria, we inserted an nptI marker into random chromosome locations in 19 different strains of the Acinetobacter genus (>24% divergent at the mutS/trpE loci). DNA from a total of 95 nptI-tagged isolates was used to transform the recipient Acinetobacter baylyi strain ADP1. A total of >1300 transformation assays revealed that at least one nptI-tagged isolate for each of the strains/species tested resulted in detectable integration of the nptI marker into the ADP1 genome. Transformation frequencies varied up to ∼10,000-fold among independent nptI insertions within a strain. The location and local sequence divergence of the nptI flanking regions were determined in the transformants. Heterogamic transformation depended on RecA and was hampered by DNA mismatch repair. Our studies suggest that single-locus-based studies, and inference of transfer frequencies from general estimates of genomic sequence divergence, is insufficient to predict the recombination potential of chromosomal DNA fragments between more divergent genomes. Interspecies differences in overall gene content, and conflicts in local gene organization and synteny are likely important determinants of the genomewide variation in recombination rates between bacterial species.
Individual Reproductive Success of Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass Subjected to Different Components of Competitive Angling Events
Authors: Siepker Michael J. , Cooke Steven J. , Wahl David H. , Philipp David P.
Published: May 2009

The continued popularity of angling for largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides and smallmouth bass M. dolomieu has led to concerns about the effects it may have on fish populations, including the realized fitness of individuals. Although catch‐and‐release angling and its effects on nest abandonment have been well documented, very little research has examined the effect that competitive angling practices may have on nest abandonment. We subjected nest‐guarding male largemouth bass in one lake and smallmouth bass in four lakes to various competitive angling practices (i.e., livewell retention, release after displacement from the nest, and a combination of these practices) and assessed subsequent nest abandonment. We also examined the importance of nest predation on the nest abandonment decisions of male bass by protecting some of the nests from predation after the angling event. Nest abandonment by largemouth bass was affected by angling treatment, the water depth at the nest site, and brood size but was not affected by male size. Angling treatment and lake influenced abandonment by smallmouth bass guarding eggs, whereas angling treatment, lake, and the presence of a protective nest cover influenced nest abandonment by smallmouth bass guarding fry. The only factor that influenced abandonment for both species and all stages was angling treatment, with abandonment being highest for all treatments that involved prolonged removal and displacement (i.e., the complete tournament simulation). These findings could be important to bass populations if year‐class size is related to the number of successful nests. The effects of angling, both catch and release and competitive, on individual nesting success in largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are now well understood, although additional work is needed to determine whether disruption of nesting at the individual level translates to population‐level effects.
Mislabeling of Two Commercial North American Hake Species Suggests Underreported Exploitation of Offshore Hake
Authors: Garcia‐Vazquez Eva , Horreo Jose L. , Campo Daniel , Machado‐Schiaffino Gonzalo , Bista Iliana , Triantafyllidis Alexandros , Juanes Francis
Published: May 2009

Mislabeling of North American merlucciid hakes in stock surveys and commercial market samples was detected by employing nuclear 5S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and mitochondrial cytochrome b variation as molecular markers. Results showed that offshore hake Merluccius albidus is sold in European markets but is labeled as the morphologically similar silver hake M. bilinearis, which is the target species of the fishery. This suggests that offshore hake may be inadvertently included within silver hake landings, as the two species overlap in the southern area of silver hake distribution (approximately 41°‐35°N latitude near North American coasts). An inexpensive and technically easy technique based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of a fragment of 5S rDNA and visualization of PCR products in agarose gels is recommended for routine species assignation in landings for purposes of exploitation estimates and for authentication of commercial hake species.
Evaluating the quality of the Digital Elevation Models produced from ASTER stereoscopy for topographic mapping in the Brazilian Amazon Region
Authors: Oliveira Cleber G. de , Paradella Waldir R.
Published: May 2009

Brazilian Amazon is a vast territory rich in natural renewable and non-renewable resources. Due to the adverse environmental condition (rain, cloud, dense vegetation) and difficult access, topographic information is still poor, and when available needs to be up-dated or remapped. In this paper, the feasibility of using elevation generated from orbital ASTER- stereo-pairs images for topographic mapping was investigated for the mountainous relief in the Serra dos Carajás, Pará. The quality of information derived from these optical images was evaluated regarding field altimetric measurements. Precise topographic field information acquired from Global Positioning System (GPS) was used as Ground Control Points (GCPs) for the modeling of the stereoscopic Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and as Independent Check Points (ICPs) for the calculation of elevation accuracies. The analysis was performed following two approaches: (1) the use of Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and (2) calculations of trend analysis and accuracy. The investigation has shown that the altimetric accuracy from ASTER fulfilled the Brazilian Map Accuracy Standards elevation requirements for 1:100,000 A Class. In addition, ASTER can provide up-dated planimetric information that is also necessary for cartographic production. Thus, when the environment condition allows the acquisition of stereo-pairs, the use of ASTER can be considered an alternative for semi-detailed topographic mapping in similar environments of the Brazilian Amazon.
Natural occurrence of hexavalent chromium in a sedimentary aquifer in Urânia, State of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Bourotte Christine , Bertolo Reginaldo , Almodovar Marta , Hirata Ricardo
Published: May 2009

Anomalous concentrations of hexavalent chromium have been detected in ground-water of the Adamantina Aquifer inat least 54 municipalities located in the northwestern region of the State of São Paulo, southeast Brazil, occasionallyexceeding the permitted limit for human consumption (0.05 mg.L-1). An investigation was conducted in the municipality of Urânia, where the highest concentrations of chromium were detected regionally. It was defined that the originof this contamination is natural, since high concentrations of chromium were detected in aquifer sandstones (averageof 221 ppm) and also in pyroxenes (6000 ppm), one of the main heavy minerals found in the sediments. Besides, noother possible diffuse or point sources of contamination were observed in the study area. Stratification of ground-waterquality was observed and the highest concentrations of Cr6+ were detected at the base of the aquifer (0.12 mg.L-1),where ground-water shows elevated values for redox potential (472.5 mV) and pH (8.61). The origin of Cr6+ in water may be associated with the weathering of pyroxene (augite), followed by the oxidation of Cr3+ by manganese oxides. The highest concentrations of Cr6+ are probably related to desorption reactions, due to the anomalous alkaline pHfound in ground-water at the base of the aquifer.
Development of the banana plants 'Prata Anã' and 'FHIA-01' under the effect of paclobutrazol applied on the soil
Authors: Maia Emanuel , Siqueira Dalmo L. , Salomão luiz C.C. , Peternelli Luiz A. , Ventrella Marília C. , Cavatte Rithiely P.Q.
Published: May 2009

Under some cultivation conditions, excessive growth of the pseudostem of banana plants can be considered a limiting factor, and thus, the use of growth regulators can constitute a valid alternative. This work aimed to evaluate the action of paclobutrazol on the growth of the pseudostem of banana plants and other characteristics of their development. An experiment was installed with five paclobutrazol doses (0; 0.5; 1.0; 1.5; and 2.0 g of a.i. plant-1) combined with two banana plant cultivars ('Prata Anã' and 'FHIA-01'). Paclobutrazol did not affect the number of days from planting to flowering, total leaf area and leaf emission rate. However, it increased leaf permanence on the plants and sucker number, reduced the foliar area of the leaves emitted after its application and provided an average reduction in pseudostem height of 26%.
Crescimento de feijão-de-porco na presença de chumbo
Authors: Almeida Ellen Loregian de , Marcos Fernanda Castro Correia , Schiavinato Marlene Aparecida , Lagôa Ana Maria Magalhães Andrade , Abreu Mônica Ferreira de
Published: May 2009

O excesso de metais pesados no solo pode se tornar um perigo para a saúde do homem, dos animais e das plantas. A fitorremediação é uma técnica com aplicação crescente em áreas de solos poluídos visando à descontaminação do solo e da água, utilizando plantas como agente descontaminador. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o potencial fitoextrator da espécie leguminosa feijão-de-porco [Canavalia ensiformis (L.) D.C.] em relação ao chumbo (Pb), por meio da avaliação dos efeitos desse metal pesado na fisiologia da planta e na nodulação das raízes. O experimento foi realizado sob condições naturais de luz e temperatura, em casa de vegetação, com vasos contendo 2 L de areia. As plantas, com e sem inoculação de rizóbio, foram submetidas a quatro concentrações de Pb (0, 250, 500 e 1000 µmol L-1). Verificou-se que o desenvolvimento das plantas de feijão-de-porco não foi inibido e não houve nas plantas sintomas de fitotoxicidade na parte aérea. Porém, as plantas não tiveram produção de nódulos radiculares. Observou-se, ainda, que nessa espécie ocorreram baixos índices de translocação de Pb para a parte aérea. Concluiu-se que as plantas de feijão-de-porco têm potencial para a fitoextração de Pb, atingindo 400 mg Pb kg-1 nas raízes, e que a fixação de N por meio de nódulos foi afetada pela presença de Pb.
Filocrono em batateira afetado pelo tamanho do tubérculo-semente e pela época de cultivo
Authors: Streck Nereu Augusto , Paula Fabiana Luiza Matielo de , Dellai Jacso , Bisognin Dilson Antônio , Paula Adalberto Luiz de
Published: May 2009

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar o filocrono de plantas de batata da cultivar Asterix oriundas de diferentes tamanhos de tubérculos-semente, em duas épocas de cultivo em campo utilizando o conceito de graus-dia para o cálculo do filocrono. O experimento foi desenvolvido em Santa Maria (RS), na primavera de 2003 e no outono de 2004. Foram usados quatro tamanhos de tubérculos-semente da cultivar de batata Asterix: entre 2 e 4 cm, 4 e 6 cm, 6 e 8 cm e 8 e 10 cm. O filocrono (ºC dia folha-1) foi estimado pelo inverso do coeficiente angular da relação entre número de folhas na haste principal e a soma térmica calculada por três métodos: método 1 - considera apenas a temperatura base; método 2 - considera a temperatura base e a temperatura ótima, e método 3 - considera a temperatura base, a temperatura ótima e a temperatura máxima. O tamanho do tubérculo-semente não afetou o filocrono, mas o método de cálculo da soma térmica e a época de cultivo afetaram o filocrono da batateira cultivar Asterix. No método de cálculo da soma térmica a ser usado no filocrono da batateira cultivar Asterix, recomenda-se usar a temperatura base e a temperatura ótima, pois com este método, o filocrono foi similar entre as épocas de cultivo.
Características do zumbido em trabalhadores expostos a ruído
Authors: Steinmetz Luciara Giacobe , Zeigelboim Bianca Simone , Lacerda Adriana Bender , Morata Thais Catalani , Marques Jair Mendes
Published: May 2009

O zumbido é um sintoma auditivo relatado por indivíduos expostos ao ruído. OBJETIVO: Estudar as características do zumbido relatadas por indivíduos expostos ao ruído ocupacional. FORMA DE ESTUDO: Descritivo prospectivo. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Participaram 52 indivíduos com idade média de 29 anos que faziam parte do programa de prevenção da perda auditiva de um frigorífico. Os indivíduos responderam a uma anamnese e suas audiometrias realizadas em 2005 e 2006 foram utilizadas. RESULTADOS: No presente estudo, 71% dos indivíduos apresentaram audiometria normal. A prevalência do zumbido para o sexo masculino foi de 16% e para o sexo feminino foi de 9% apresentando tempo médio de exposição ao ruído de sete anos a um nível médio de ruído entre 86 e 91 dBA (48%). Verificou-se um predomínio do zumbido bilateral (46%), do tipo chiado (40%) de intensidade média (49%), com tempo de instalação do sintoma entre um a cinco anos (67%), sendo sua freqüência semanal (41%) e a noite o período que mais perturba (34%). Encontrou-se significância entre a periodicidade do zumbido e o nível de ruído. CONCLUSÃO: Recomenda-se a inclusão do tema zumbido em programas de prevenção da perda auditiva a fim de promover a saúde auditiva dos trabalhadores.
Análise de citocinas pela RT-PCR em pacientes com rinite alérgica
Authors: Silva Tarcimara Moreira da , Guimarães Roberto Eustáquio Santos , Nascimento Evaldo , Becker Helena Maria Gonçalves , Araújo Ricardo Nascimento , Nunes Flávio Barbosa
Published: May 2009

Rinite alérgica é uma doença que decorre de um processo inflamatório da mucosa nasal conseqüente à reação de hipersensibilidade a alérgenos inalatórios e, eventualmente, alimentares. É mediada por IgE, envolvendo diferentes células, mediadores e citocinas. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as transcrições para as seguintes citocinas: IL-4, IL-5, IL-8 e IFN-gama, particularmente importantes no processo alérgico nasal, principalmente IL-4 e IL-5. Neste estudo, optou-se por avaliar os pacientes atópicos fora das crises alérgicas, com a finalidade de se conhecer as expressões das citocinas neste período. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Realizou-se um estudo transversal e prospectivo, selecionando-se 30 pacientes, sendo 13 pacientes portadores de rinite alérgica paucissintomáticos e 17 pacientes não-atópicos. Os grupos foram selecionados através da história, do exame clínico otorrinolaringológico e do teste alérgico cutâneo - Prick Test. O perfil das citocinas foi pesquisado nos fragmentos de mucosa nasal, através da RT-PCR semiquantitativa, escolhida por apresentar boa reprodutibilidade e especificidade, utilizando-se como referência o gene da Beta-actina. RESULTADOS: Os valores de IL-5, IL-8, IFN-gama mantiveram-se homogêneos em relação ao grupo controle. A IL-4 apresentou diferença com significância estatística. CONCLUSÃO: Os pacientes alérgicos paucissintomáticos apresentaram normalização da expressão das citocinas na mucosa nasal à exceção de IL-4.
Detecção do vírus Epstein-Barr em tonsilites recorrentes
Authors: Dias Eliane Pedra , Rocha Monica Lage da , Carvalho Maria Odete de Oliveira , Amorim Lidia Maria da Fonte de
Published: May 2009

As tonsilites recorrentes têm sido objeto de muitos estudos. Eventos considerados na predisposição e causa incluem a utilização errônea de antibióticos em crises agudas, alterações da microflora, mudanças estruturais nas criptas epiteliais tonsilares e infecções virais. A infecção pelo vírus Epstein-Barr (EBV) ocorre freqüentemente na infância persistindo em linfócitos de tonsilas, podendo causar tonsilites recorrentes. Pouco se conhece sobre a persistência e reativação do EBV em pacientes imunocompetentes. Alguns métodos como a hibridização in situ, a reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) e a imuno-histoquímica têm sido utilizados no estudo da patogenia do vírus. OBJETIVO: Para caracterizar a associação do vírus Epstein-Barr com tonsilites recorrentes examinamos a presença do EBV pela PCR e por imuno-histoquímica usando como alvo a proteína viral LMP-1. FORMA DE ESTUDO: Estudo transversal com análise de prevalência amostral. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foram selecionados 24 blocos parafinados de tonsilas, provenientes do Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, removidas de crianças de 2 a 12 anos com diagnóstico de tonsilite recorrente. Resultados: O genoma do EBV foi detectado em 13 (54,1%) e a LMP-1 em 9 (37,5%) dos casos. CONCLUSÃO: As tonsilas das crianças podem ser colonizadas pelo EBV e este pode estar associado à patogenia das tonsilites recorrentes.
Medidas de imitância acústica em lactentes com 226hz e 1000hz: correlação com as emissões otoacústicas e o exame otoscópico
Authors: Garcia Michele Vargas , Azevedo Marisa Frasson de , Testa José Ricardo
Published: May 2009

A avaliação audiológica do lactente deve ser composta pela verificação das condições de orelha média (medidas de imitância acústica e otoscopia) e pela avaliação coclear (Emissões Otoacústicas). OBJETIVO: Verificar qual tom teste da timpanometria (226Hz ou 1000Hz) tem maior correlação com o exame otoscópico e com o resultado das Emissões Otoacústicas por estímulo transiente. MÉTODO: Realizou-se emissões otoacústicas nos 60 lactentes da amostra, com idade entre de zero e quatro meses. Foram distribuídos em dois grupos, sendo o grupo I 30 lactentes com EOA presente e o grupo II 30 lactentes com EOA ausente. Foram submetidos à timpanometria de múltiplas freqüências, com tom teste de 226Hz e 1000Hz e avaliação otoscópica. RESULTADOS: Na timpanometria, o tom teste de 1000Hz apresentou mais sensibilidade para identificar as alterações de orelha média. Nas crianças com curva timpanométrica dentro da normalidade, ambos os tons-teste (226 e 1000Hz) apresentaram alta especificidade. Todas as correlações foram significantes com o tom teste de 1000Hz. CONCLUSÃO: O tom teste de 1000Hz apresentou maior correlação estatisticamente significante com as EOA e com a avaliação otoscópica para lactentes de zero a quatro meses.
Avaliação da artéria etmoidal anterior pela tomografia computadorizada no plano coronal
Authors: Souza Soraia Ale , Souza Marcia Maria Ale de , Gregório Luís Carlos , Ajzen Sergio
Published: May 2009

O conhecimento da localização da artéria etmoidal anterior (AEA) constitui etapa importante na cirurgia do recesso do seio frontal e do etmóide anterior. A tomografia computadorizada (TC), em especial no plano coronal pode fornecer reparos anatômicos que identificam o trajeto da AEA. OBJETIVO: Identificar os reparos anatômicos que caracterizam o trajeto da AEA na parede medial da órbita e na parede lateral da fossa olfatória. Verificar a correlação entre a presença de pneumatização supra-orbitária e a visualização do etmoidal anterior (canal da AEA). CASUÍSTICA E MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de 198 tomografias computadorizadas dos seios paranasais no plano coronal do período de agosto a dezembro de 2006. RESULTADOS: Pneumatização supra-orbitária foi identificada em 35% (70 exames). O canal da AEA foi caracterizado em 41% (81 exames). O sulco etmoidal anterior foi visualizado em 98% (194 dos exames) e o forame etmoidal anterior foi identificado em todos os exames (100%). CONCLUSÃO: O forame etmoidal anterior e o sulco etmoidal anterior foram referências anatômicas presentes em quase 100% dos exames avaliados. Houve correlação entre a presença de pneumatização supra-orbitária e a caracterização do canal da AEA.
Relações entre transpiração máxima, evapotranspiração de referência e área foliar em quatro variedades de mangueira
Authors: Oliveira Greice Ximena Santos , Coelho Filho Maurício Antonio , Pereira Francisco Adriano de Carvalho , Coelho Eugênio Ferreira , Paz Vital Pedro da Silva , Castro Neto Manoel Teixeira de
Published: May 2009

Nas condições edafoclimáticas de Cruz da Almas - BA, na Embrapa Mandioca e Fruticultura Tropical, foi realizado um estudo no qual se relacionou a transpiração máxima (Litros m-2 folha/dia -1) de quatro variedades de mangueira (Tommy Atkins, Palmer, Haden e Van Dyke, com áreas foliares totais de 14; 8; 33 e 12 m², respectivamente) com a evapotranspiração de referência (ETo). A transpiração das plantas (L dia-1) foi estimada por meio de sensores que realizam o balanço de calor no caule (modelos SAG13; SGB9; SGB16; SGB19 e SGB25, Dynamax Inc.) dispostos nos sentidos norte (N), sul (S), leste (E), oeste (W) e centro (C) de cada planta. A transpiração por unidade de área foliar (Lm-2 folha dia-1) variou em média de 1,58 ao longo do período estudado, e linearmente com o aumento da área foliar total da planta, independentemente da variedade estudada. A transpiração (Litros m-2 folha/dia -1) variou de 0,36 a 3,00, dependendo da demanda atmosférica. A transpiração máxima (T) das quatro variedades de mangueira (Litros m-2 folha/dia -1) relacionouse linearmente com a ETo (T = 0,44. ETo; r² = 0,78), sendo um excelente subsídio para o manejo de irrigação por gotejamento nesta cultura.