bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ridge Preservation for Implant Therapy: a Review of the Literature
Authors: Tomlin Elizabeth M , Nelson Shelby J , Rossmann Jeffrey A
Published: May 2014

Healing of the extraction socket after tooth removal involves retention of the blood clot followed by a sequence of events that lead to changes in the alveolar process in a three dimensional fashion. This normal healing event results in a minimal loss of vertical height (around 1 mm), but a substantial loss of width in the buccal-lingual plane (4-6 mm). During the first three months following extraction that loss has been shown to be significant and may result in both a hard tissue and soft tissue deformity affecting the ability to restore the site with acceptable esthetics. Procedures that reduce the resorptive process have been shown to be predictable and potentially capable of eliminating secondary surgery for site preparation when implant therapy is planned. The key element is prior planning by the dental therapist to act at the time of extraction to prevent the collapse of the ridge due to the loss of the alveolus.

Several techniques have been employed as ridge preservation procedures involving the use of bone grafts, barrier membranes and biologics to provide a better restorative outcome. This review will explore the evidence behind each technique and their efficacy in accomplishing site preparation. The literature does not identify a single technique as superior to others; however, all accepted therapeutic procedures for ridge preservation have been shown to be more effective than blood clot alone in randomized controlled studies.
Detoxification of Implant Surfaces Affected by Peri-Implant Disease: An Overview of Non-surgical Methods
Authors: Valderrama Pilar , Blansett Jonathan A , Gonzalez Mayra G , Cantu Myrna G , Wilson Thomas G
Published: May 2014

Objective:

The aim of this review is to summarize the findings of studies that have evaluated non-surgical approaches for detoxification of implant body surfacesin vitroandin vivo, and to evaluate clinical trials on the use of these methodologies for treating peri-implant disease.

Materials and methods:

A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (Pubmed) from 1966 to 2013.In vitroandin vivostudies as well as clinical trials on non-surgical therapy were evaluated. The outcome variables were the ability of the therapeutic method to eliminate the biofilm and endotoxins from the implant surface, the changes in clinical parameters including probing depth, clinical attachment levels, bleeding on probing; radiographic bone fill and histological re-osseointegration.

Results:

From 134 articles found 35 were analyzed. The findings, advantages and disadvantages of using lasers as well as mechanical and chemical methods are discussed. Most of thein vivoand human studies used combination therapies which makes determining the efficacy of one specific method difficult. Most human studies are case series with short term longitudinal analysis without survival or failure reports.

Conclusion:

Complete elimination of the biofilms is difficult to achieve using these approaches. All therapies induce changes of the chemical and physical properties of the implant surface. Re-osseointegration may be difficult to achieve if not impossible without surgical access to ensure thorough debridement of the defect and detoxification of the implant surface. Combination protocols for non-surgical treatment of peri-implantitis in humans have shown some positive clinical results but long-term evaluation to evaluate the validity and reliability of the techniques is needed.
Effects of L-amino Acids on Human Peripheral Neutrophil Granulocyte Activation
Authors: Sipka Sándor , Keresztes Tamás , Kovács Ildikó , Sipka Jr Sándor , Baráth Sándor , Szegedi Gyula , Zeher Margit , Bruckner Geza
Published: May 2014

Objective:

The objective was to investigate the early (20 minutes) effects of 21 L-amino acids on the activation of human neutrophils and to determine in healthy individuals the effects of a meal on the 1) number and relative luminescence unit (RLU) of peripheral neutrophils, 2) serum glutamate and glucose levels and 3) mTOR signaling network.

Methods:

The RLU of neutrophils stimulated by Ca2+ ionophor (CaI) and phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) following amino acid supplementation (3 x 10-4 M) or after consuming a meal was determined. L-glutamate was measured by HPLC.

Results:

All amino acids resulted in significant inhibitions of neutrophil RLU, except for arginine, which stimulated neutrophils. The ratios of amino acid induced inhibition were significantly higher in the cells stimulated by PMA than by CaI. The consumption of a meal resulted in a significant serum glutamate elevation compared to baseline (2.3 versus 0.9 x10-4 M) 90 minutes after ingestion of the meal. It was independent of the body mass index and returned near fasting levels after 150 minutes. The number of neutrophils was significantly elevated 90 minutes after the meal but the PMA induced RLU was significantly decreased.

Conclusion:

Our ex vivoand in vivoresults suggest that the L-amino acids, independent of their metabolic significance, may continuosly and quickly modify the activity of human peripheral neutrophils, and also the outcome of various immunologic reactions. The activation of the mTORC1 complex likely involves a transient impairment in the function of mTORC2 complex in these processes.
Temporal Effects of Bisphenol A on Dopaminergic Neurons: An Experiment on Adult Rats
Authors: Ishido Masami , Masuo Yoshinori
Published: May 2014

The vulnerability of developing brains to environmental chemicals has been reported. Here, we examined the
temporal effects of bisphenol A on dopaminergic neurons. Exposure of 5-day-old rats to bisphenol A caused hyperactivity
in juveniles, after which spontaneous motor activity leveled off at 8 weeks of age, when apoptotic cell death was still
observed along with the loss of tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity. Accumulation of α-synuclein, a pathological
marker of neurodegeneration, was also detectable in the substantia nigra, but not in the cerebral cortex. In adult rats, acute
toxicity following microinjection of bisphenol A (20 μg) caused degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, similar to that
following administration of 6-hydroxydopamine (15 μg). Chronic exposure of adult rats to bisphenol A (3 mg/kg/day for
28 days) caused neurodegeneration in the substantia nigra. However, behavioral effects were not seen after either acute or
chronic exposure of adult rats to bisphenol A.

Thus, the sensitivity of the central nervous system to bisphenol A was shown to be different at different life stages,
confirming the greater vulnerability of the developing central nervous system.
Uretrorenoscopy laser lithotripsy treatment of stones impacted in the left ureter 10 years after right kidney autotransplantation
Authors: Milovic Novak , Bancevic Vladimir , Teodorovic Goran
Published: May 2014

Introduction. Urinary tract calculosis is a very common condition in general
population. It appears in 5-10% of population, and can be managed
conservatively or by minimally invasive, endoscopic and surgical procedures
or extracorporeal shock way lithotripsy. Lesions of the ureter can be
resolved by JJ stent insertion, end-to-end anastomosis, ureterocystoneostomy,
percutaneous nephrostomy, nephrectomy, intestinal graft interposition or
kidney autotransplantation. Case report. We presented surgical treatment and
outcome in a female patient, with a large defect of the right ureter due to
impacted stone treatment, following a successful autotransplantation of the
right kidney. Ten years later a stone impacted in the left ureter was
successfully treated by ureterorenoscopy and laser lithotripsy.
Asynchronously combined kidney aoutotransplantation and ureterorenoscopic
lithotripsy preserved kidney function. Conclusion. Bilateral organs
preservation should be considered even in the absence of malignancy,
especially in younger population.
BCL10 aberations and NF-kappa B activation involving p65 are absent or rare in primary gastric MALT lymphoma
Authors: Hajder Jelena , Marisavljevic Dragomir , Stanisavljevic Natasa , Mihaljevic Biljana , Kovcin Vladimir , Markovic Olivera , Zivkovic Radmila
Published: May 2014

Bacground/Aim. Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma accounts for
5-17% non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). The molecular pathogenesis of MALT
lymphomas is not well-established. The aim of this study was to evaluate
immunohistochemically determined nuclear coexpression of BCL10 and NF-kappaB
(NF-?B) in tumor cells of gastric MALT lymphoma and its impact on the
patogenesis and outcome of the disease. Methods. Medical records of 35
patients with newly diagnosed gastric MALT lymphoma were analyzed and biopsy
specimens were immunostained for BCL10 and NF-kB expression (p65 subunit).
Results. The median age of 35 patients diagnosed with gastric MALT lymphoma
was 63.5 years (male/female = 21/14). Symptoms were present in 23/35 (65.7%)
patients with the weight loss as the most common symptom. Gastric MALT
lymphomas were usually localized in the stomach corpus and corpus and antrum
(45.7% and 31.2%, respectively). H. pylori infection was confirmed in 20 out
of 30 (66.7%) patients. Treatment options were as follows: immunochemotherapy
in 10 (28.5%) patients, surgery in 9 (25.8%) patients, combined surgery and
chemotherapy in 14 (40%) patients and supportive measures in 2 (5.7%)
patients. Complete remission was achieved in 13 (37.1%) patients and partial
remission in two (5.7%) patients. Sixteen (45.7%) patients had disease
progression (p < 0.001). Cytoplasmatic expression of BCL10 in tumor cells was
detected in 19 (54.3%) specimens. Nuclear expression was detected in no
specimen. Cytoplasmic expression of NF-?B was present in 22 (65.7%)
specimens, but nuclear expression was not detected in any specimens.
Conclusion. Nuclear expressions (activation) of NF-?B p65 subunit and BCL10
were not detected in specimens of gastric MALT lymphoma. The correlation of
nuclear coexpression of BCL10 and NF-?B in gastric MALT lymphoma was not
established. These results indicate that other mechanisms and signal pathways
are active in lymphogenesis of gastric MALT lymphoma, as that apoptotic
inhibition is not the main, nor the only mechanism in tumorogenesis.
On theorising and humanising academic complicity in the neoliberal university
Authors: Posecznick Alex
Published: May 2014

Most academics that I know take it for granted that higher education in capitalist countries has become deeply corporatised over the last thirty years. But as an undergraduate student in the 1990s, dreaming of joining the ranks of the professoriate, the institutional and structural changes that were transforming the university were largely hidden from my view. Looking back, I had no idea how such trends might be impacting the men and women who excited my intellect and set me on an academic path. I did not even think to ask.
Caught in the adjunct trap
Authors: Hose Linda , Ford E.J.
Published: May 2014

Based on personal experiences garnered through years of adjunct instruction, the authors explore the challenges associated with working in academia without the guarantees of a long-term contract or tenure. Further, adjuncts are desperate to accept any position that is remunerative and this willingness undermines contract negotiation leverage of every member of the academic teaching community.
Evaluation of marine phytoplankton toxicity by application of marine invertebrate bioassays
Authors: Aylagas Eva , Menchaca Iratxe , Laza-Martínez Aitor , Seoane Sergio , Franco Javier
Published: May 2014

The dinoflagellate Alexandrium minutum and the haptophyte Prymnesium parvum are well known for their toxin production and negative effects in marine coastal environments. A. minutum produces toxins which cause paralytic shellfish poisoning in humans and can affect copepods, shellfish and other marine organisms. Toxins of P. parvum are associated with massive fish mortalities resulting in negative impacts on the marine ecosystem and large economic losses in commercial aquaculture. The aim of this work is to improve our knowledge about the reliability of the use of marine invertebrate bioassays to detect microalgae toxicity, by performing: (i) a 24- to 48-h test with the brine shrimp Artemia franciscana; (ii) a 48-hour embryo-larval toxicity test with the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus; and (iii) a 72-h test with the amphipod Corophium multisetosum. The results indicate that A. franciscana and P. lividus larvae are sensitive to the toxicity of A. minutum and P. parvum. LC50 comparison analysis between the tested organisms reveals that A. franciscana is the most sensitive organism for A. minutum. These findings suggest that the use of different organizational biological level bioassays appears to be a suitable tool for A. minutum and P. parvum toxicity assessment.
Podocytes Regulate Neutrophil Recruitment by Glomerular Endothelial Cells via IL-6–Mediated Crosstalk
Authors: Kuravi Sahithi J. , McGettrick Helen M. , Satchell Simon C. , Saleem Moin A. , Harper Lorraine , Williams Julie M. , Rainger George Ed , Savage Caroline O. S.
Published: May 2014

Stromal cells actively modulate the inflammatory process, in part by influencing the ability of neighboring endothelial cells to support the recruitment of circulating leukocytes. We hypothesized that podocytes influence the ability of glomerular endothelial cells (GEnCs) to recruit neutrophils during inflammation. To address this, human podocytes and human GEnCs were cultured on opposite sides of porous inserts and then treated with or without increasing concentrations of TNF-α prior to addition of neutrophils. The presence of podocytes significantly reduced neutrophil recruitment to GEnCs by up to 50% when cultures were treated with high-dose TNF-α (100 U/ml), when compared with GEnC monocultures. Importantly, this phenomenon was dependent on paracrine actions of soluble IL-6, predominantly released by podocytes. A similar response was absent when HUVECs were cocultured with podocytes, indicating a tissue-specific phenomenon. Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 elicited the immunosuppressive actions of IL-6 in a process that disrupted the presentation of chemokines on GEnCs by altering the expression of the duffy Ag receptor for chemokines. Interestingly, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 knockdown in GEnCs upregulated duffy Ag receptor for chemokines and CXCL5 expression, thereby restoring the neutrophil recruitment. In summary, these studies reveal that podocytes can negatively regulate neutrophil recruitment to inflamed GEnCs by modulating IL-6 signaling, identifying a potential novel anti-inflammatory role of IL-6 in renal glomeruli.
Nuclear Role of WASp in Gene Transcription Is Uncoupled from Its ARP2/3-Dependent Cytoplasmic Role in Actin Polymerization
Authors: Sadhukhan Sanjoy , Sarkar Koustav , Taylor Matthew , Candotti Fabio , Vyas Yatin M.
Published: May 2014

Defects in Wiskott–Aldrich Syndrome protein (WASp) underlie development of WAS, an X-linked immunodeficiency and autoimmunity disorder of childhood. Nucleation-promoting factors (NPFs) of the WASp family generate F-actin in the cytosol via the VCA (verprolin-homology, cofilin-homology, and acidic) domain and support RNA polymerase II–dependent transcription in the nucleus. Whether nuclear-WASp requires the integration of its actin-related protein (ARP)2/3-dependent cytoplasmic function to reprogram gene transcription, however, remains unresolved. Using the model of human TH cell differentiation, we find that WASp has a functional nuclear localizing and nuclear exit sequences, and accordingly, its effects on transcription are controlled mainly at the level of its nuclear entry and exit via the nuclear pore. Human WASp does not use its VCA-dependent, ARP2/3-driven, cytoplasmic effector mechanisms to support histone H3K4 methyltransferase activity in the nucleus of TH1-skewed cells. Accordingly, an isolated deficiency of nuclear-WASp is sufficient to impair the transcriptional reprogramming of TBX21 and IFNG promoters in TH1-skewed cells, whereas an isolated deficiency of cytosolic-WASp does not impair this process. In contrast, nuclear presence of WASp in TH2-skewed cells is small, and its loss does not impair transcriptional reprogramming of GATA3 and IL4 promoters. Our study unveils an ARP2/3:VCA-independent function of nuclear-WASp in TH1 gene activation that is uncoupled from its cytoplasmic role in actin polymerization.
Tetherin Promotes the Innate and Adaptive Cell–Mediated Immune Response against Retrovirus Infection In Vivo
Authors: Li Sam X. , Barrett Bradley S. , Heilman Karl J. , Messer Ronald J. , Liberatore Rachel A. , Bieniasz Paul D. , Kassiotis George , Hasenkrug Kim J. , Santiago Mario L.
Published: May 2014

Tetherin/BST-2 is a host restriction factor that could directly inhibit retroviral particle release by tethering nascent virions to the plasma membrane. However, the immunological impact of Tetherin during retrovirus infection remains unknown. We now show that Tetherin influences antiretroviral cell-mediated immune responses. In contrast to the direct antiviral effects of Tetherin, which are dependent on cell surface expression, the immunomodulatory effects are linked to the endocytosis of the molecule. Mice encoding endocytosis-competent C57BL/6 Tetherin exhibited lower viremia and pathology at 7 d postinfection with Friend retrovirus (FV) compared with mice encoding endocytosis-defective NZW/LacJ Tetherin. Notably, antiretroviral protection correlated with stronger NK cell responses. In addition, Friend retrovirus infection levels were significantly lower in wild-type C57BL/6 mice than in Tetherin knockout mice at 2 wk postinfection, and antiretroviral protection correlated with stronger NK cell and virus-specific CD8+ T cell responses. The results demonstrate that Tetherin acts as a modulator of the cell-mediated immune response against retrovirus infection in vivo.
The prevalence of self-reported smoking and validation with urinary cotinine among commercial drivers in major parks in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Ozoh Obianuju B. , Dania Michelle G. , Irusen Elvis M.
Published: May 2014

The validity of self-reported smoking is questionable because smokers are inclined to deny smoking. We aimed to determine the prevalence of self-reported smoking among intra-city commercial drivers in Lagos, and assess its validity based on urinary cotinine assessment. This study was conducted at three major motor parks in Lagos, Nigeria. Information on smoking status and habits was obtained from 500 consecutive male drivers using a structured questionnaire during a face-to-face interview. Eighty-one self-reported smokers and non-smokers were selected by systematic random sampling for urinary cotinine assessment using cotinine strips. The prevalence of self-reported smoking was compared to the prevalence of smoking based on urinary cotinine and the specificity and positive predictive values of self-reported smoking was determined. Prevalence of self-reported current smoking was 32% and 17.9% of nonsmokers were passive smokers. Among 81 drivers in whom urinary cotinine assessment was performed, the prevalence of smoking based on self-report was 34 (42%) compared to 41 (50.6%) when based on urinary cotinine, (X2=38.56, P<0.001). The rate of misclassification among self-reported non-smokers as smokers was 21.3% and misclassification rate for self-reported smokers as non-smokers was 8.8%. The sensitivity of self-reported smoking in accurately classifying smoking status was 91.2% and the specificity was 78.7%. The prevalence of self-reported cigarette smoking among commercial drivers in Lagos is high and a significant proportion of self-reported non-smokers are passive smokers. Self-reported smoking status obtained during face-to-face interview appears unreliable in obtaining accurate smoking data in our locality.
Coppice growth responses of two North American willows in acidic clay soils on coal mine overburden
Authors: Mosseler A. , Major J. E.
Published: May 2014

Mosseler, A. and Major, J. E. 2014. Coppice growth responses of two North American willows in acidic clay soils on coal mine overburden. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 1269–1279. Acid-generating mine spoils with low pH are a major problem for revegetation and site reclamation. We compared growth responses of 15 genotypes from two widespread willow species, Salix discolor Muhl. (DIS) and S. eriocephala Michx. (ERI), native to eastern and central North America on two adjacent coal mine spoil sites that differed strongly in both pH (3.6 vs. 6.8) and soil texture. Despite significantly poorer growth responses for several coppice biomass traits on a highly acidic clay deposit compared with adjacent shale overburden, these willow clones demonstrated a surprising tolerance for extremely acidic soil conditions. Analysis of survival and growth uncovered genotype×environment interactions, indicating that both species and genotypic differences within species could be used to select better-adapted genotypes for extreme conditions. Most ERI and DIS clones grew comparatively better on the shale overburden site, but two of eight ERI clones and one of seven DIS clones grew significantly better on the acidic clay site, indicating the possibility for clonal selection for specific site adaptations within a species. Allometric relationships between coppice height and basal stem diameter were constant at both the species and site levels. However, there was a divergence of height and diameter in their relationship with green mass yields on the two different site types.
Development of an efficient protocol for high frequency in vitro regeneration of a horticultural plant Primulina tamiana (B.L. Burtt) Mich. Möller & A. Webber
Authors: Padmanabhan Priya , Murch Susan J. , Sullivan J. Alan , Saxena Praveen K.
Published: May 2014

Padmanabhan, P., Murch, S. J., Sullivan, J. A. and Saxena, P. K. 2014. Development of an efficient protocol for high frequency in vitro regeneration of a horticultural plant Primulina tamiana (B.L. Burtt) Mich. Möller & A. Webber. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 1281–1287. A rapid and efficient in vitro regeneration system was established for Primulina tamiana, an attractive ornamental plant of horticultural importance. The successful regeneration protocol employed induction of shoot organogenesis on leaf explants. Among the various plant growth regulators evaluated, thidiazuron (TDZ) proved to be the most effective in inducing rapid de novo shoot formation. The highest shoot regeneration frequency within the shortest time from leaf explants was obtained on medium enriched with 2.5 µM TDZ. Furthermore, leaf segments were found to be a more suitable explant for in vitro shoot regeneration compared with petiole explants. The abaxial side of the leaf segments, which was in contact with the culture medium, generated more shoots than the adaxial side. Scanning electron microscopic studies carried out at various stages of de novo shoot differentiation demonstrated that shoot organogenesis involved the formation of actively dividing regions from the epidermal and subepidermal layers of the explants. In vitro rooting of the regenerated shoots was attempted using two different auxins, IAA (3-indoleacetic acid) and 3-indolebutyric acid (IBA) (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 µM). The optimum concentration for root induction was found to be 5 µM IBA. Approximately, 98% of the regenerated plants survived transfer and acclimation to greenhouse conditions.
Unitary Eigenvarieties at Isobaric Points
Authors: Bellaïche Joël
Published: May 2014

In this article we study the geometry of the eigenvarieties of unitary groups at points corresponding to tempered non-stable representations with an anti-ordinary (a.k.a evil) refinement. We
prove that, except in the case where the Galois representation attached to the automorphic form is a sum of characters, the eigenvariety is non-smooth at such a point, and that (under some additional hypotheses) its tangent space is big enough to account for all the relevant Selmer group. We also study the local reducibility locus at those points, proving that in general, in contrast with the case of the eigencurve, it is a proper subscheme of the fiber of the eigenvariety over the weight space.
Transmissible gastroenteritis in Cuba: experimental reproduction of the disease and molecular characterization of the virus
Authors: Barrera Valle M. , Díaz de Arce Landa H. , Acevedo Beiras A.M. , Cuello Portal S. , Rodríguez Batista E. , Vega Redondo A. , Urquiaga Varela R. , Frías Lepoureau M.T.
Published: May 2014

Transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) is a highly contagious enteric disease of pigs caused by an enteropathogenic coronavirus, TGEV. The sequence of the 5' end of the spike glycoprotein (S) gene best distinguishes this virus from related coronavirus. Since February 2003, a large number of unexplained outbreaks of gastroenteritis have occurred on pig farms in Havana. The problem was identified as TGE for the first time in May 2003. This paper describes the virological and molecular studies that led to this diagnosis. The disease was experimentally reproduced in susceptible piglets, a sow, and in weaned pigs. TGEV recovered from the diarrheic faeces of the sick piglets was identified by electron microscope negative staining, viral isolation in secondary swine kidney cultures, and by RT-PCR using previously reported primers. The PCR product amplified from the 5' end of the S gene was directly sequenced. The nucleotide sequence and the deduced amino acid residues of the amplified region are reported. A phylogenetic analysis was performed by comparing a 393-414 nucleotide stretch near the 5' end of the S gene in 36 viruses from different countries and with different isolation dates. The virus causing the outbreak in Cuba seems to be closely related to a TGEV previously isolated in the US Midwest. The source of infection remains unknown.
Sex ratio of offspring in pigs: farm variability and relationship with litter size and piglet birth weight
Authors: Alfonso L.
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this article was to analyse data available on pig sex ratio at birth to provide information on its variability and the possible factors of influence. Factors that can influence the proportion of female or male offsprings are of interest in livestock production for practical reasons. Previous works show that exhaustive and conclusive information is not available in pigs. Nowadays, data collected by computerised pig management systems, or experimental projects aimed to test other hypotheses, enables the study of sex ratio variation. As an example, a small data set from a previous project aimed to evaluate the effect of birth weight on survivability was used in this study. The sex ratio variability among farms and its relationship with litter size and birth weight were analysed and discussed. Although not free of sampling error, neither of selective reporting, results showed that variability can exist among commercial farms, and that sex ratio was not clearly affected by litter size but varied among classes of piglets with different birth weight.
Mid-term effects of exposure to fungicide-treated seeds in feral rock pigeons (Columba livia)
Authors: Pescador M. , Peris S.
Published: May 2014

The feeding response of feral rock pigeons (Columba livia) to wheat (Triticum aestivum) and barley (Hordeum vulgare) seed treated with the fungicide "Maneb" (manganese ethylene-bisdithiocarbamate) was assessed under aviary conditions. Bird preferences for dry or moist seed were also recorded. In all cases, non-treated (49.14 g birdE1 dayE1) rather than treated seed (32.97 g birdE1 dayE1) was selected, and wheat rather than barley (48.16 compared to 33.95 g birdE1 dayE1 respectively). Dry seed was consumed in preference to moist seed (47.53 g birdE1 dayE1 compared to 15.08 g birdE1 dayE1) a preference noted both when treated and non-treated seed was consumed. The birds fed exclusively on treated seed showed a reduction in body weight; no significant differences were recorded in those fed either untreated or mixed seed. Water consumption was three times greater in pigeons fed exclusively on treated seed.
Effect of microwave energy on grain quality of four Spanish rice varieties
Authors: Marzal A. , Osca J.M. , Castell V. , Martínez J. , Benedito C. , Balbastre J.V. , Sánchez-Hernández D.
Published: May 2014

A microwave system can be used as an alternative method to methyl bromide to control rice storage pests. Four rice varieties (Oryza sativa L.) grown in Spain ("Bomba", "Senia", "Puntal" and "Thainato") were irradiated with three levels of microwave energy (0, 70 and 100 J gE1). Rice quality attributes were analysed to establish hypothetical quality changes in order to use microwave energy as an alternative method to control pests. Results of the factorial analysis showed that the analysed attributes differed more within varieties than among microwave treatments of the varieties, except for "Thainato" which, after applying microwave energy of 100 J gE1, presented a different adhesiveness from the other two treatments determined by factor 1 and "Puntal" treated with microwaves presented a different water uptake and loss of solids in cooking water determined by factor 3 than the control. The increase in hardness and decrease in adhesiveness as a consequence of the microwave treatment could possibly damage rice quality. This aspect must be taken into account with this method. In conclusion, microwave energy can be used as an alternative method of insect control because it does not seriously affect rice quality. Microwave treatments did not leave undesirable residues and could be as effective at controlling insect infestation as any procedure currently available.
Short communication. Sequence of msp1alpha gene of Anaplasma marginale Havana isolate and expression in eukaryotic cells
Authors: Corona B. , Minet C. , Albina E. , Vega A. , Martínez S.
Published: May 2014

Bovine anaplasmosis is a disease of worldwide economic importance caused by the rickettsia Anaplasma marginale. Several major surface proteins with conserved gene sequences have been examined as potential candidates for vaccines. One of these proteins, MSP1a, is expressed from the single copy msp1alpha gene. The molecular weight of MSP1a varies among the geographic isolates of A. marginale because of a varying number of tandem repeated peptides of 28-29 amino acids. In the present study, the sequence of the msp1alpha gene of Anaplasma marginale Havana isolate was determined, with a size of 2,043 kb, demonstrating the presence of five tandem repeated regions. This gene was cloned into the eukaryotic expression vector pCIneo, transfected in COS-7 cells and expression verified by immunofluorescence. These data provide a basis for an immunization strategy using the msp1alpha gene in DNA immunization containing single or multiple genes encoding major surface proteins of A. marginale.
Short communication. Lactation performance of Duroc gilts under the single farrowing production system
Authors: Daza A. , Riopérez J. , Ovejero I.
Published: May 2014

Twelve Duroc gilts were used in order to study production and composition of milk during the lactation period and the litter performance under the single farrowing production system. Estrus was induced using PG-600 (400 IU of pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin + 200 IU of human corionic gonadotrophin) and the females were artificially inseminated at 171 +/- 6 d and 95.1 +/- 5.6 kg live weight. Daily milk production was determined according to the weigh-suckle-weigh technique at 1, 7, 14 and 21 d of lactation and colostrum and mature milk samples were collected at farrowing and on 8, 15 and 22 d of lactation. The sows net gain during pregnancy was of 49.1 +/- 7.1 kg and during lactation their feed intake was of 3.4 +/- 0.3 kg dE1 and their weight loss was 5.83 +/- 2.5 kg. The production of milk increased in a linear way through the lactation period and the average daily production was very low (4.29 +/- 0.7 kg). The contents of colostrum dry matter, gross energy and proteinwere higher than the mature milk but lower regarding fat and lactose. Dry matter, gross energy, protein and lactose contents in milk did not significantly vary during lactation. Nevertheless, an increase in fat content was found in the eighth day of lactation. The average daily gain in piglets was 130.4 +/- 31.5 g and the milk conversion ratio was 3.47 +/- 0.39 kg kgE1. The protein level in lactation feed did not have a significant influence on sows and piglets performances.
Short communication. Seed germination of different populations of wild (n=9) Brassica montana and B. oleracea
Authors: Pérez-García F.
Published: May 2014

The aim of this work was to evaluate seed germination characteristics of wild populations of Brassica montana (8 accessions) and B. oleracea (30 accessions). Seed germination at 25ºC under a photoperiod of 16-h light/8-h darkness was variable in B. montana (0 to 86%) and more uniform in B. oleracea (73 to 100%). In both species, germination rate (as expressed by mean germination time) varied significantly among populations. A presowing treatment with gibberellic acid only significantly promoted germination in one of 14 populations tested from both species. The results of this study show high intraspecific variation in the germination pattern of seed from different B. montana populations and less variation in populations of B. oleracea.
Dimensioning of longitudinal reinforcements in concrete beams with a non-rectangular section and variable height
Authors: Díaz Huedo J.I. , Montero Martínez J. , Galletero Montero P.
Published: May 2014

Lately, structural typologies of agricultural infrastructures have undergone significant changes. These have been especially important in the case of farm buildings where reinforced concrete structures are the most commonly used. In order to make precast concrete items which are interesting because of their cost, it is necessary to optimize their design and implement accurate calculation procedures. This paper presents a methodology to calculate longitudinal reinforcements in reinforced concrete (RC) beams with non-rectangular sections and a variable height along the main direction of the beam. This method has been developed taking into account the interaction diagrams of the different sections in which the beam has been previously split. Checks included considering the contribution of all the reinforcements in a section, including the support reinforcements. For each section, the different combinations of resistant axial force and bending moment were estimated, i.e. their interaction diagram was drawn. Once the axial force of the studied beam was known, the bending moment of each section was calculated. These values were then integrated for the whole beam and the maximum moment diagram was represented. By repeating the whole process for different reinforcements, the optimal reinforcement could be determined for each loading situation in the beam. A software tool has been developed so this methodology can be easily performed and design of the RC beams optimized.
Quality and metabolic implications of including anchovy oil or a blend of herring oil, n-3 PUFA [polyunsaturated fatty acids] concentrate and palm stearin in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) diets
Authors: Menoyo D. , López Bote C.J. , Bautista J.M. , Obach A.
Published: May 2014

The effect of feeding Atlantic salmon with two fat sources containing similar concentration of saturated (SAFA), monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFA), but different fatty acid composition, on growth, digestibility, fillet quality and lipid metabolism was studied. Two extruded diets with the same basal composition but coated with herring oil supplemented with palm stearin and n-3 fatty acid concentrate (HO+ diet) or with pure anchovy oil (AO diet) were fed to Atlantic salmon with an average weight of 1.9 kg for 24 weeks. A better growth was reported in fish fed the AO diet (P
Effect of feeding level during the period previous to free-range fattening on growth and carcass characteristics in Iberian pigs
Authors: Daza A. , Mateos A. , Rey A.I. , López Bote C.J.
Published: May 2014

This study was principally undertaken to provide information of the influence of feeding level during the period prior to fattening on growth and carcass traits of Iberian pigs finished under free-range conditions with acorns and grass. During the period prior to fattening, a group of 11 pigs (high feeding level, H) was fed with 70 g feed kgE1 LW sup(0.75) (live weight) and another group of 11 pigs (low feeding level, L) was fed with 50 g feed kgE1 LW sup(0.75). The pigs average daily gain for prior to fattening, free-range and whole periods were: 385.4 and 168.9 (P
Does melatonin treatment during lactation influence milk production in Lacaune and Assaf ewes?
Authors: Abecia J.A. , Forcada F. , Valares J.A. , Palacín I. , Martín S. , Martino A. , Gómez M.I. , Palacios C.
Published: May 2014

To determine whether treatment with melatonin during lactation harms milk production, two experiments were performed. In Experiment 1, 188 Lacaune ewes, lambed between September 12 and November 1 were used, and in Experiment 2, 124 Assaf ewes that lambed between November 14 and January 11. In Experiment 1, a first milk record was obtained on February 11, which was used to divide the animals into two groups, M and C. On March 11, a subcutaneous melatonin implant was administered to M animals (n=93), and the rest (n=95) corresponded to the Control Group (C). In Experiment 2, the first milk record was at weaning (January 5) and, on February 15, ewes were divided into M (n=90) and C (n=34). From that date until dry-off, monthly milk records were obtained. In both experiments, melatonin treatment significantly increased the number of lambs produced, and no detrimental effects on milk production were detected. In conclusion, the use of melatonin to improve reproduction in dairy sheep does not interfere with milk production. Moreover, an increase in the number of lambs produced, and the greater number of ewes that can be milked in the following period because of exogenous melatonin can provide economical benefits to farms.
Resistance of pepper germplasm to Phytophthora capsici isolates collected in Northwest Spain
Authors: Andrés Ares J.L. , Rivera Martínez A. , Fernández Paz J.
Published: May 2014

One single pathotype (race 0) was identified among eight tested isolates of Phytophthora capsici (Leonian) collected in Northwest Spain, after inoculation tests using pepper cultivars of different origin, including the well known reference resistant cultivar Serrano Criollo de Morelos 334. Complete resistance to P. capsici was not found after the inoculation of 23 local genotypes of Capsicum annuum with three different isolates of this oomycete, collected in northwest Spain. However significant differences in virulence were found for the three P. capsici isolates inoculated into the local pepper germplasm, using disease data based on results of genotype-isolate interactions. Virulence test as well as breeding methods for resistance to the pathogen are also discussed.
Effect of fruit thinning on the mineral composition of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) fruit and its connection with purple spot
Authors: Gariglio N.F. , Agustí M.
Published: May 2014

This work studies the effect of competition among developing fruits on the mineral concentration of the flesh and rind tissues of loquat fruit and its relation to the incidence of purple spot. When fruit reached 10 mm in diameter, the trees were hand-thinned to 1, 3 or 5 fruits per panicle, using non-thinned trees as control trees. In flesh tissue, K concentration significantly increased and Fe concentration significantly decreased at colour break in response to thinning. In rind tissue, N, K, Mg and Fe concentration diminished at colour break, depending on the thinning intensity, down to 23%, 21%, 27% and 41%, respectively, for one fruit per panicle treatment. Changes in the mineral composition of fruits caused by thinning significantly increased the gradient of concentration of N, K, Ca and Mg between the rind and the flesh tissue. This increase in the mineral gradient correlates positively and significantly with the percentage of purple-spotted fruit.
Short communication. Phytoseiid mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) from apple trees in Río Negro, Argentina
Authors: Ruíz M.G. , Sosa D.H. , Speranza C. , Lofego A.C. , De Moraes G.J. , Fernandes O.A.
Published: May 2014

The presence of phytoseiid mites was determined in two unsprayed apple orchards at Cinco Saltos and Cipolletti, Río Negro Province, Argentina. Twenty apple trees were chosen in each orchard and a sample of 10 leaves per tree was taken at seven different sampling dates. Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor), Euseius fructicolus (Gonzalez &Schuster) and Paraseiulus talbii Athias-Henriot were found at Cinco Saltos, and Proprioseiopsis messor (Wainstein), N. californicus and Metaseiulus camelliae (Chant & Yoshida-Shaul) at Cipolletti. Of these species, only N. californicus has previously been reported from the Alto Valle del Río Negro region. Proprioseiopsis messor and Paraseiulus talbii are reported for the first time in South America and on the American Continent respectively.
Perfil epidemiológico e socioeconômico de usuários de medicamentos de dispensação em caráter excepcional em Aracaju (2008)
Authors: Brandão Igor Macedo , Carvalho Walter Marcelo Oliveira de , Mendonça Andréa Teles de
Published: May 2014

Embora a saúde seja um direito garantido na constituição, a práxis revela uma enorme contradição entre as conquistas sociais estabelecidas no plano legal e a realidade de crise vivenciada pelos usuários e profissionais do setor. Geralmente, quanto mais complexo for o diagnóstico para o esclarecimento da patologia apresentada, maiores serão as barreiras que o usuário terá que enfrentar para iniciar a terapêutica indicada para o tratamento da sua enfermidade. Esta pesquisa objetivou realizar estudo comparativo do perfil epidemiológico e socioeconômico entre usuários de medicamentos de dispensação em caráter excepcional, de acordo com o custo do diagnóstico e tratamento da patologia, procurando identificar se os usuários de medicamentos excepcionais portadores de patologias cujo diagnóstico e tratamento possuem custos mais elevados tem os mesmos perfis daqueles pacientes cujas doenças de base são diagnosticadas com custos financeiros menos dispendiosos e terapêutica economicamente mais acessível. Concluiu-se que há heterogeneidade no perfil dos grupos analisados, especialmente no tocante ao nível de escolaridade, renda e classe social dos usuários, destacando-se a importância da defesa, manutenção e cumprimento dos princípios e diretrizes preconizados pelo SUS.
Efeitos físicos e psicológicos da prática da Hatha Yoga em adultos nas instituições privadas em Salvador, Bahia
Authors: Mota Edmara Oliveira , França Rafael dos Reis , Freitas Mayanna Machado
Published: May 2014

O Yoga é um sistema filosófico milenar, originário da Índia, cujo objetivo principal é o desenvolvimento da união entre corpo e mente, dentre seus ramos, a Hatha Ioga consiste na combinação entre exercícios posturais (“asanas”), relaxamento e controle voluntário da respiração (“pranayamas”). Cada postura física realizada pela Hatha Yoga produz vários efeitos orgânicos, físicos, emocionais e energéticos em seu praticante, proporcionando flexibilidade, promovendo homeostasia endócrina através da ativação glandular e produzindo um equilíbrio físico qualitativo. O presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar o perfil dos efeitos físicos e psicológicos em praticantes de Hatha Yoga nas instituições privadas em Salvador-Bahia. A sua metodologia constou de um estudo descritivo, longitudinal, tendo uma abordagem quantitativa em praticantes de Hatha Yoga nas instituições privadas em Salvador-Bahia. Os dados foram coletados através de aplicação de questionário anônimo com questões fechadas e respondido de forma anônima. A participação na pesquisa foi condicionada à concordância por meio da assinatura do termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido e obedeceu-se aos princípios éticos dispostos na resolução N° 196/96, do Conselho Nacional de Saúde. Foi verificado que a Hatha Yoga proporciona diversos resultados durante suas práticas, como melhora da concentração, circulação sanguínea, redução de sintomas depressivos, melhora nos padrões respiratórios, flexibilidade e força muscular seja ela a curto ou em longo prazo. Dessa forma, essa prática oferece melhor qualidade de vida, autoconhecimento para lidar com problemas contemporâneos e uma educação para cultivar e conquistar boa saúde.
Utilização de prebióticos e probióticos em pediatria
Authors: Brandão Igor Macedo
Published: May 2014

A desnutrição infantil sempre foi uma das maiores preocupações no campo da Nutrição Pediátrica, assim como também passou a ser a obesidade. Porém a preocupação com alimentação infantil começa desde o período da gestação, seguido do período de aleitamento materno e, consequentemente, toda a infância. Neste sentido a Nutrição Funcional surge como uma nova aliada no combate às desordens alimentares, principalmente a diarreia, ainda bastante relacionada aos altos índices de mortalidade infantil. Este estudo buscou avaliar a utilização de dois dos principais tipos de Alimentos Funcionais (prebióticos e probióticos) na conduta terapêutica e de prevenção de diversas patologias em Pediatria.
The Use and Refinement of Neutron Imaging Techniques for Archaeological Artifacts
Authors: Ryzewski Krysta , Bilheux Hassina Z. , Herringer Susan N. , Bilheux Jean-Christophe , Walker Lakeisha , Sheldon Brian W.
Published: May 2014

Neutron imaging is a nondestructive application capable of producing two- and three-dimensional maps of archaeological objects’ external and internal structure, properties, and composition. This report presents the recent development of neutron imaging data collection and processing methods at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), which have been advanced, in part, by information gathered from the experimental imaging of 25 archaeological objects over the past three years. The dual objectives of these imaging experiments included (1) establishing the first methodological procedures for the neutron imaging of archaeomaterials involving the CG-1D beamline and (2) further illustrating the potential of neutron imaging for archaeologists to use in the reverse engineering of ancient and historical objects. Examples of objects imaged in two and three dimensions are provided to highlight the application’s strengths and limitations for archaeological investigations, especially those that address ancient and historic technologies, materials science, and conservation issues.