bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of solvents on the electronic absorption spectra of mesoionic 1,8,4 thiadiazolium‐2‐thiolate derivatives
Authors: Kiwan A. M. , Marafie H. M.
Published: April 2009

The electronic absorption spectra of 4,5‐diphenyl‐, 4‐pheriyl‐5‐(4‐fluorophenyl)‐, 4‐phenyl‐5‐(4‐chlorophenyI)‐, and 4‐phenyl‐.5‐methyl‐1,3,4‐lhiadiazolium‐2‐thiolates have been measured in twenty‐one pure solvents, aqueous ethanol and acetone solutions and cyclohexane‐chloroform mixtures. They were found to exhibit three characteristic absorption bands; the first in the range 330‐440 nm, the second at 260‐280 run and the third near 200 ran. The first band was assigned to n → π* transition whereas the other two bands were assigned to π →π* transition. The n → π* transition band was found to be very sensitive, and the polarity of solvents, and some correlations between well‐known solvent polarity parameters and the transition energies of these compounds have been presented.
The myelinated fiber changes in the white matter of aged female Long‐Evans rats
Authors: Yang Shu , Li Chen , Lu Wei , Zhang Wei , Wang Weiwei , Tang Yong
Published: April 2009

Age‐related changes of the white matter and the myelinated fibers in white matter of female Long‐Evans rats were investigated by the use of design‐based stereological methods. The white matter volume in middle‐aged rats was not significantly different from that in young rats, but the white matter volume in aged rats was significantly decreased by 42.7% and 37.7%, respectively, when compared with young and middle‐aged rats. When compared with young rats, the total volumes of the myelinated fibers and myelin sheaths in white matter of aged rats were significantly decreased by 26.7% and 30.7%, respectively. When compared with young and middle‐aged rats, the total length of the myelinated fibers in white matter of aged rats was significantly decreased by 52.5% and 48.6%, respectively. The mean diameter of the myelinated fibers in white matter of aged rats was significantly increased by 37.5% when compared with young rats. The absolute diameter distributions of the myelinated fiber length in the white matter of young, middle‐aged, and aged rats indicated that the age‐related loss of the myelinated fiber length in the white matter of aged rats was mainly as a result of the marked loss of the myelinated fibers with smaller diameter. The age‐related changes of the white matter and the myelinated fibers in white matter may have important implications for age‐related cognitive impairments. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proteome profile of the mature rat olfactory bulb
Authors: Maurya Devendra Kumar , Sundaram Curam Sreenivasacharlu , Bhargava Purnima
Published: April 2009

Olfactory bulbs (OBs) are one of the few brain areas, which show active neurogenesis and neuronal migration processes in adult rats. We constructed a proteome map of the 21 days old rat OBs and identified total 196 proteins, out of which 76 proteins were not reported earlier from rat brain. This includes 24 neuronal activity‐specific proteins present at high levels, 7 of which are reported for the first time from OBs.
Factors associated with maternal death in women admitted to an intensive care unit with severe maternal morbidity
Authors: Oliveira Neto Antonio F. , Parpinelli Mary A. , Cecatti José G. , Souza João P. , Sousa Maria H.
Published: April 2009

Objective

To identify factors associated with maternal death among women with severe maternal morbidity.

Methods

A retrospective study of 673 women admitted to an obstetric intensive care unit was undertaken. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated for selected characteristics. The maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity ratios were determined for groups of complications according to outcome (death or survival).

Results

The risk of maternal death was higher among adolescents (OR 3.3; 95% CI, 1–9.7) and patients referred from other hospitals (OR 9.8; 95% CI, 2.7–53.3). The severe maternal morbidity ratio was 46.6 per 1000 deliveries and the mortality:morbidity ratio 1:37.4. Obstetric complications led to 65.8% of admissions and 50% of maternal deaths. The number of interventions/procedures and total maximum sequential organ failure assessment score were higher in cases of death.

Conclusion

The strong association between interhospital transfer and maternal death suggests delays in diagnosis, management, and referral. Adopting organ dysfunction‐based criteria may contribute toward identifying the most severe cases.
Legitimacy, Hypocrisy, and the Social Structure of Unipolarity
Authors: Finnemore Martha
Published: April 2009

Despite preponderant power, unipoles often do not get their way. Why? Scholars interested in polarity and the systemic structures determined by the distribution of power have largely focused on material power alone, but the structure of world politics is as much social as it is material. In this article the author explores three social mechanisms that limit unipolar power and shape its possible uses. The first involves legitimation. To exercise power effectively, unipoles must legitimate it and in the act of legitimating their power, it must be diffused since legitimation lies in the hands of others. The second involves institutionalization. A common way to legitimate power is to institutionalize it. Institutionalizing power in rational-legal authorities fundamentally transforms it, however. Once in place, institutions, laws, and rules have powers and internal logics of their own that unipoles find difficult to control. The third relates to hypocrisy. The social structures of legitimation and insti tutionalization do more than simply diffuse power away from the unipole; they create incentives for hypocrisy. Hypocrisy is a double-edged sword for unipoles. On the one hand, unrestrained hypocrisy by unipoles undermines the legitimacy of their power. On the other hand, judicious hypocrisy can provide crucial strategies for melding ideals and interests. Indeed, honoring social ideals or principles in the breach can have long-lasting political effects, as decades of U.S. hypocrisy about democratization and human rights suggest.
Illustrations of damnation in late Anglo-Saxon manuscripts
Authors: Semple Sarah
Published: April 2009

‘Many tribulations and hardships shall arise in this world before its end, and
they are heralds of the eternal perdition to evil men, who shall afterwards
suffer eternally in the black hell for their sins.’ These words, composed by
Ælfric in the last decade of the tenth century, reflect a preoccupation in the
late Anglo-Saxon Church with perdition and the infernal punishments that
awaited sinners and heathens. Perhaps stimulated in part by anxiety at the
approach of the millennium, both Ælfric and Wulfstan (archbishop of York,
1002–23) show an overt concern with the continuation of paganism and the
evil deeds of mankind in their sermons and homilies. Their works stress the
terrible judgement that awaited sinners and heathens and the infernal torment
to follow. The Viking raids and incursions, during the late eighth to ninth and
late tenth centuries, partially inspired the great anxiety apparent in the late
Anglo-Saxon ecclesiastical leadership. Not only were these events perceived as
divine punishment for a lack of religious devotion and fervour in the English
people, but the arrival of Scandinavian settlers in the late ninth century may
have reintroduced pagan practice and belief into England.
Modeling and Data Syntheses of Past Climates: Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project Phase II Workshop; Estes Park, Colorado, 15–19 September 2008
Authors: Otto‐Bliesner Bette L. , Joussaume Sylvie , Braconnot Pascale , Harrison Sandy P. , Abe‐Ouchi Ayako
Published: April 2009

The Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project (PMIP) is a long‐standing initiative that provides coordinated paleoclimate modeling and data activities to facilitate valuable discoveries on the mechanisms of climate change. At its recent workshop in Colorado, sponsored by the U.S. National Science Foundation, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and International Geosphere‐Biosphere Program Past Global Changes, more than 70 scientists met to review past successes and discuss future efforts. Participants included atmospheric scientists, oceanographers, and paleoclimatologists from the data and modeling communities.
Renner–Teller effect in linear tetra-atomic molecules. II. Rovibronic levels analysis of the X Π2u electronic state of HCCH+
Authors: Jutier L. , Léonard C. , Gatti F.
Published: April 2009

The variational approach detailed in the previous paper (Paper I) for the treatment of the Renner–Teller effect in linear tetra-atomic molecules including all degrees of freedom and couplings between angular momenta is applied for HCCH+. The accurate six-dimensional potential energy surfaces of the X Π2u electronic state, presented in Paper I is incorporated in the variational treatment in order to obtain all rovibronic levels including the spin-orbit coupling for 1/2≤J≤7/2 and up to 2600 cm−1 above the global zero point energy. The “pure” stretching levels are calculated up to 11 000 cm−1 from the stretching zero point energy. The calculated rovibronic energies are compared with previous theoretical and experimental data. The mean agreement with the zero kinetic energy photoelectron measurements of Tang et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 125, 133201 (2006)] is of 16.7 cm−1. The Renner–Teller parameters have been determined at νtrans=690.0 cm−1, ϵtrans=0.30, νcis=715.0 cm−1, and ϵcis=−0.063. A detailed analysis of the rovibronic Hund’s cases is presented and the rotational structures of some vibronic bands recorded by Yang and Mo [J. Phys. Chem. A 110, 11001 (2006)] are given.
Periodic magnetic domain wall pinning in an ultrathin film with perpendicular anisotropy generated by the stray magnetic field of a ferromagnetic nanodot array
Authors: Metaxas P. J. , Zermatten P.-J. , Jamet J.-P. , Ferré J. , Gaudin G. , Rodmacq B. , Schuhl A. , Stamps R. L.
Published: April 2009

The stray magnetic field of an array of hard ferromagnetic perpendicularly magnetized [Co/Pt]4 nanodots is used to nondestructively generate a periodic pinning potential for domain walls in an underlying [Pt/Co]2/Pt layer with perpendicular anisotropy. Pinning is evidenced using magneto-optical microscopy. The magnetic field (H) dependence of the average wall velocity in the presence of the periodic pinning potential is consistent with thermally activated creep, modified only by the addition of a uniform retarding field Hret, whose magnitude depends on the relative alignment of H and the dots' magnetizations.
Complex Period Variations of the Neglected W UMa-type Binary System NY Lyrae
Authors: Qian S.-B. , Liu L. , Zhu L.-Y.
Published: April 2009

Orbital-period variations of the neglected W UMa-type binary star, NY Lyr, were analyzed based on two newly determined eclipse times together with the others compiled from the literature. A cyclic oscillation with a period of 82.1 yr and an amplitude of 0.0247 d was discovered to be superimposed on a continuous period increase (dP/dt = +1.33 × 10−7 d yr−1). After the long-term period increase and the large-amplitude cyclic oscillation were removed from the O–C diagram, the residuals suggest that there is another small-amplitude period oscillation (A4 = 0.0053 d, P4 = 19.4 years) in the orbital period changes. As in the cases of AH Cnc and AD Cnc, both the continuous period increase and the two cyclic period oscillations make NY Lyr an interesting system to study in the future. In order to understand the evolutionary state of the binary system, new photometric and spectroscopic observations and a careful investigation on those data are needed.
Relaxation of a class of variational models in crystal plasticity
Authors: Conti Sergio , Dolzmann Georg , Klust Carolin
Published: April 2009

We investigated the effect of spontaneous formation of microstructures on the macroscopic material behaviour in a class of models in finite single-crystal plasticity without hardening. In particular, we show that, even in the presence of a single active slip system, the formation of slip bands leads to a very soft behaviour of the sample in response to a large class of applied loads. This contrasts with results obtained under the assumption of rigid elasticity.
Female mate choice across spatial scales: influence of lek and male attributes on mating success of blue-crowned manakins
Authors: Durães Renata , Loiselle Bette A. , Parker Patricia G. , Blake John G.
Published: April 2009

Lekking males compete for females within and among leks, yet female choice is expected to work differently at each of these spatial scales. We used paternity analyses to examine how lek versus male attributes influence mate choice in the blue-crowned manakin
Lepidothrix coronata
. We tested the hypotheses that females prefer (i) to mate at larger leks where a larger number of potential mates can be assessed, (ii) to mate with unrelated or highly heterozygous males expected to produce high-quality offspring, (iii) to mate with males that display at higher rates, and that (iv) display honestly reflects male genetic quality. Our results show that (i) males at larger leks are not more likely to sire young, although females nesting close to small leks travel further to reach larger leks, (ii) siring males are not less related to females or more heterozygous than expected, (iii) within a lek, high-display males are more likely to sire young, and (iv) both male heterozygosity and display rate increased with lek size, and as a result display does not reliably reflect male genetic quality across leks. We suggest that female mate choice in this species is probably driven by a Fisherian process rather than adaptive genetic benefits.
Network-based diffusion analysis: a new method for detecting social learning
Authors: Franz Mathias , Nunn Charles L.
Published: April 2009

Social learning has been documented in a wide diversity of animals. In free-living animals, however, it has been difficult to discern whether animals learn socially by observing other group members or asocially by acquiring a new behaviour independently. We addressed this challenge by developing network-based diffusion analysis (NBDA), which analyses the spread of traits through animal groups and takes into account that social network structure directs social learning opportunities. NBDA fits agent-based models of social and asocial learning to the observed data using maximum-likelihood estimation. The underlying learning mechanism can then be identified using model selection based on the Akaike information criterion. We tested our method with artificially created learning data that are based on a real-world co-feeding network of macaques. NBDA is better able to discriminate between social and asocial learning in comparison with diffusion curve analysis, the main method that was previously applied in this context. NBDA thus offers a new, more reliable statistical test of learning mechanisms. In addition, it can be used to address a wide range of questions related to social learning, such as identifying behavioural strategies used by animals when deciding whom to copy.
On the tetragonality of the room-temperature ferroelectric phase of barium titanate, BaTiO3
Authors: Keeble Dean S. , Thomas Pamela A.
Published: April 2009

The room-temperature phase of the important ferroelectric material barium titanate, BaTiO3, was re-investigated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction on a sample grown by the top-seeded solution growth method, with the intention of demonstrating once again that the structure has tetragonal symmetry consistent with the space-group assignmentP4mmand thus resolving recent controversy in the scientific community and literature [Yoshimura, Kojima, Tokunaga, Tozaki & Koganezawa (2006).Phys. Lett. A,353, 250–254; Yoshimura, Morioka, Kojima, Tokunaga, Koganezawa & Tozaki (2007).Phys. Lett. A,367, 394–401]. To this end, the X-ray diffraction pattern of a small (341 µm3) sample of top-seeded solution-grown BaTiO3was measured using an Oxford Diffraction Gemini CCD diffractometer employing Mo Kα radiation and an extended 120 mm sample-to-detector distance. More than 104individual diffraction maxima observed out to a maximum resolution of 0.4 Å were indexed on two tetragonal lattices. These were identical to within the standard deviations on the lattice parameters and were related to each other by a single rotation of 119.7° about the [11\overline1] direction of the first tetragonal lattice (the major twin component), although the actual twinning operation that explains the observed diffraction pattern both qualitatively and quantitatively is shown to be conventional 90° twinning by them[101] operation. Importantly, it is not necessary to invoke either monoclinic symmetry or a coexistence of tetragonal and monoclinic phases to explain the observed diffraction data.
Ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering at the Advanced Photon Source
Authors: Ilavsky Jan , Jemian Pete R. , Allen Andrew J. , Zhang Fan , Levine Lyle E. , Long Gabrielle G.
Published: April 2009

The design and operation of a versatile ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering (USAXS) instrument at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) at Argonne National Laboratory are presented. The instrument is optimized for the high brilliance and low emittance of an APS undulator source. It has angular and energy resolutions of the order of 10−4, accurate and repeatable X-ray energy tunability over its operational energy range from 8 to 18 keV, and a dynamic intensity range of 108to 109, depending on the configuration. It further offers quantitative primary calibration of X-ray scattering cross sections, a scattering vector range from 0.0001 to 1 Å−1, and stability and reliability over extended running periods. Its operational configurations include one-dimensional collimated (slit-smeared) USAXS, two-dimensional collimated USAXS and USAXS imaging. A robust data reduction and data analysis package, which was developed in parallel with the instrument, is available and supported at the APS.
Domestic–External Linkages and the Cold War in 1953 and 1989: Using International Relations Theory and Comparative Politics to Explain the End of the Cold War
Authors: Kramer Mark
Published: April 2009

Drawing on theories of international relations (IR) and comparative politics, this article explains why the cold war ended in 1989 rather than 1953. Numerous scholars have used IR theory to discuss the end of the cold war, but most of the circumstances they highlight were also present in the spring of 1953, right after the death of Joseph Stalin. This article presents three broad theoretical approaches that deal with the connection between domestic politics and international relations, and it then shows how these approaches can help us understand the similarities and differences between 1953 and 1989. In particular, the article emphasises the importance of time. In the spring of 1953, the window of opportunity was very brief—only a few months, which was insufficient for the two main cold war antagonists to overcome their deeply entrenched suspicions and make far-reaching adjustments in their policies. In the latter half of the 1980s, by contrast, the sweeping reorientation of east–west relations occurred over several years, giving policy-makers on both sides sufficient leeway to adapt and to ‘learn’ new ways of interacting.
Heretical Conversations with Continental Philosophy: Jan Patočka, Central Europe and Global Politics
Authors: Moore Cerwyn
Published: April 2009

This article argues that the contributions of the Czech philosopher, Jan Patočka, have been overlooked in the study of International Relations (IR), and more generally international political theory. Attention here is drawn to the many distinctive ideas particular to Patočkian philosophy, such as the solidarity of the shaken and the care of the soul, which combine accounts of a Central European philosophy and dissident political reactions to totalitarian rule. The legacy of Patočka's work frames the latter part of the article, which examines Central European identity and ‘samizdat’ as often neglected reference points in IR. The article concludes by drawing these themes together in an account of rupture, inspired by the solidarity of the shaken and care for the soul.
The Potential of X‐Ray Diffraction in the Analysis of Burned Remains from Forensic Contexts*
Authors: Piga Giampaolo , Thompson Tim J. U. , Malgosa Assumpciò , Enzo Stefano
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  In view of the difficulties in extracting quantitative information from burned bone, we suggest a new and accurate method of determining the temperature and duration of burning of human remains in forensic contexts. Application of the powder X‐ray diffraction approach to a sample of human bone and teeth allowed their microstructural behavior, as a function of temperature (200–1000°C) and duration of burning (0, 18, 36, and 60 min), to be predicted. The experimental results from the 57 human bone sections and 12 molar teeth determined that the growth of hydroxylapatite crystallites is a direct and predictable function of the applied temperature, which follows a nonlinear logistic relationship. This will allow the forensic investigator to acquire useful information about the equilibrium temperature brought about by the burning process and to suggest a reasonable duration of fire exposure.
EXTENDING THE CHILLED SHELF LIFE OF VACUUM‐PACKAGED GROUND BEEF USING ASCORBIC ACID, NITRITE OR SALT
Authors: GÖK VELI , KAYAARDI SEMRA , OBUZ ERSEL
Published: April 2009

The objective of this study was to extend the shelf life of ground beef in chilled conditions. Samples were treated with 2% salt, 2% salt + 500‐ppm ascorbic acid, or 2% salt + 100‐ppm sodium nitrite. The control sample did not contain any additives. Protein, nitrite, moisture contents, pH, thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value, color attributes and microbial counts of samples were determined. Samples were vacuum packaged and stored in refrigeration, and chemical and microbial analyses were performed throughout storage. The pH of samples decreased during storage, and the sample having 2% salt and 500‐ppm ascorbic acid had the greatest pH decline. TBA values generally increased (P < 0.05) with storage time. Samples having 2% salt + 500‐ppm ascorbic acid had the lowest TBA value. On a given storage day, samples having 2% salt + 100‐ppm sodium nitrite had lower microbial microbial count than other samples, indicating the antibacterial effect of nitrite. A significant storage time × treatment interaction (P < 0.05) existed for almost all quality parameters studied.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Ground beef has commercial importance for the meat industry in Turkey. Meat processors have difficulties in marketing ground beef because of its relatively low shelf life. By adding ascorbic acid or salt, it is possible to extend shelf life and preserve its color, and to limit lipid oxidation, which will collectively help to increase market share of ground beef.
Mauritian Cynomolgus Macaques Share Two Exceptionally Common Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Alleles That Restrict Simian Immunodeficiency Virus-Specific CD8+T Cells
Authors: Burwitz Benjamin J. , Pendley Chad J. , Greene Justin M. , Detmer Ann M. , Lhost Jennifer J. , Karl Julie A. , Piaskowski Shari M. , Rudersdorf Richard A. , Wallace Lyle T. , Bimber Benjamin N. , Loffredo John T. , Cox Daryl G. , Bardet Wilfried , Hildebrand William , Wiseman Roger W. , O'Connor Shelby L. , O'Connor David H.
Published: April 2009

Vaccines that elicit CD8+T-cell responses are routinely tested for immunogenicity in nonhuman primates before advancement to clinical trials. Unfortunately, the magnitude and specificity of vaccine-elicited T-cell responses are variable in currently utilized nonhuman primate populations, owing to heterogeneity in major histocompatibility (MHC) class I genetics. We recently showed that Mauritian cynomolgus macaques (MCM) have unusually simple MHC genetics, with three common haplotypes encoding a shared pair of MHC class IA alleles,Mafa-A*25andMafa-A*29. Based on haplotype frequency, we hypothesized that CD8+T-cell responses restricted by these MHC class I alleles would be detected in nearly all MCM. We examine here the frequency and functionality of these two alleles, showing that 88% of MCM expressMafa-A*25andMafa-A*29and that animals carrying these alleles mount three newly defined simian immunodeficiency virus-specific CD8+T-cell responses. The epitopes recognized by each of these responses accumulated substitutions consistent with immunologic escape, suggesting these responses exert antiviral selective pressure. The demonstration thatMafa-A*25andMafa-A*29restrict CD8+T-cell responses that are shared among nearly all MCM indicates that these animals are an advantageous nonhuman primate model for comparing the immunogenicity of vaccines that elicit CD8+T-cell responses.
Acceptance and Therapeutic Practice of Controlled Drinking as an Outcome Goal by Swiss Alcohol Treatment Programmes
Authors: Klingemann Harald , Rosenberg Harold
Published: April 2009

Sixty-one percent (138/226) of Swiss inpatient and outpatient alcohol treatment programmes responded to a postal survey designed to assess the definition and acceptance of controlled drinking (CD) as a treatment objective, the degree to which a client’s severity of dependence and finality of CD as an outcome goal were associated with acceptance, and the perceived value of selected client characteristics when making treatment recommendations. CD was acceptable to large proportions of both outpatient services and inpatient programmes, although willingness to recommend CD was associated with client characteristics such as selecting CD as intermediate versus final outcome goal, lower severity of dependence, not being pregnant and higher social stability. Information and individual therapy to help clients pursue a CD goal are commonly available in outpatient agencies and some inpatient programmes, but group counseling, cue exposure and wet house services are not typically available from Swiss programmes.
Hormonal Basis of Male and Female Androgenic Alopecia: Clinical Relevance
Authors: Schmidt Jolanta B.
Published: April 2009

A broad range of hormones was determined in males and females with androgenic hair loss (AH). The androgens testosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, 17-hydroxyprogesterone and sex hormone binding globulin were evaluated in 65 male and 46 female patients. Besides estradiol (E2), cortisol (F), and the hypophyseal hormones LH, FSH, and prolactin (PRL) were investigated. Hormone levels were compared with those of 58 age-matched male and 45 female controls. In 38 of the 46 female AH patients, hypophyseal function was moreover evaluted by the ‘TRH test’, which detects slight, secondary hypothyroidism and/or hyperprolac-tinemia. Our findings showed a significant elevation of F in both male and female AH patients compared to controls, pointing to the suprarenes as a contributing factor in AH. This is confirmed by the observation of exacerbated AH in periods of increased stress. Concerning specifically male androgens, a significant elevation of androstenedione was noted. The mainly peripheral activity of this hormone and elevated E2 levels in males stress the importance of androgen metabolism especially at the peripheral level. Additional TRH tests in females demonstrated significant hypophyseal hypothyroidism. Multi-layered interaction between thyroid hormones and androgens may contribute to the development of AH in hyperthyroid patients. Another significant finding was elevated PRL after TRH stimulation. Thus, the androgen-stimulating effect of PRL may also play a role in female AH. Our findings show multilayered hormonal influences in AH. Broad-range hormone determination demonstrated a differentiated hormonal situation in this disorder.
Activin A induces dendritic cell migration through the polarized release of CXC chemokine ligands 12 and 14
Authors: Salogni Laura , Musso Tiziana , Bosisio Daniela , Mirolo Massimiliano , Jala Venkatakrishna R. , Haribabu Bodduluri , Locati Massimo , Sozzani Silvano
Published: April 2009

Activin A is a dimeric protein, member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)–β family that plays a crucial role in wound repair and in fetal tolerance. Emerging evidence also proposes activin A as a key mediator in inflammation. This study reports that activin A induces the directional migration of immature myeloid dendritic cells (iDCs) through the activation of ALK4 and ActRIIA receptor chains. Conversely, activin A was not active on plasmacytoid dendritic cells (DCs) or mature myeloid DCs. iDC migration to activin A was phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase γ–dependent, Bordetella pertussis toxin– and cycloheximide-sensitive, and was inhibited by M3, a viral-encoded chemokine-binding protein. In a real-time video microscopy-based migration assay, activin A induced polarization of iDCs, but not migration. These characteristics clearly differentiated the chemotactic activities of activin A from TGF-β and classic chemokines. By the use of combined pharmacologic and low-density microarray analysis, it was possible to define that activin-A–induced migration depends on the selective and polarized release of 2 chemokines, namely CXC chemokine ligands 12 and 14. This study extends the proinflammatory role of activin A to DC recruitment and provides a cautionary message about the reliability of the in vitro chemotaxis assays in discriminating direct versus indirect chemotactic agonists.
Níveis de fertilidade do solo para a cultura algodoeira: II - Correlação entre a produção e o teor de fósforo no solo
Authors: Verdade Francisco da Costa , Venturini Wanderley R. , Amaral Álvaro Zingra do , Wutke Antônio Carlos Pimentel
Published: April 2009

Os resultados de 216 experiências de adubação do algodoeiro realizadas no período de 1957 a 1960 foram correlacionados com os teores de fósforo do solo. Em virtude do pequeno número de reações favoráveis à adubação nitrogenada e potássica, sòmente aquele nutriente pôde ser estudado. Verificou-se, porém, que o nitrogênio e o potássio, em níveis baixos (30 kg/ha), dão melhor consistência à ação do fósforo. Considerando-se como 100 a melhor produção, foi possível estabelecer, estatisticamente, a relação entre os teores de fósforo do solo e as porcentagens de produção. A correlação foi altamente significativa, explicando, a linear, cêrca de 50%, e a quadrática, menos de 10%, para os solos do arenito Bauru. Obteve-se a equação que levaria à maior porcentagem de produção por adição de fertilizante fosfatado. Êsses mesmos critérios foram aplicados à terra-roxa, onde sòmente a correlação linear foi significativa, explicando 40% da ligação entre as variáveis.
Efeitos da cobertura e da incorporação ao solo, imediatamente antes do plantio, de diferentes formas de matéria orgânica não decomposta, na cultura do feijoeiro
Authors: Miyasaka Shiro , Camargo A. Paes de , Inforzato Romeu , Igue Toshio
Published: April 2009

Foram estudados o comportamento da massa vegetal não decomposta de leguminosas e de gramíneas e seus efeitos, quando incorporada ao solo antes do plantio do feijão. A incorporação ao solo de massa vegetal não decomposta acarretou: a)maior retenção de umidade e menor variabilidade térmica do solo, embora em menor grau que no solo com cobertura morta ("mulch"); b)tendência para formação de maior número de nódulos, principalmente quando a incorporação é de graminea; c) aumento no teor de potássio nas folhas, no desenvolvimento da parte vegetativa e radicular e na produção de sementes do feijoeiro. Êstes efeitos foram particularmente significativos quando da aplicação de soja perene, quer incorporada, quer em cobertura.
Observações sôbre o efeito da luz no crescimento da tiririca, Cyperus rotundus L.
Authors: Magalhães Antônio Celso
Published: April 2009

Foram estudados: os efeitos do sombreamento de tiririca (Cyperus rotundusL.), no campo, com plantas de Canavalia ensiformisD.C.; a ação de luz artificial; o ponto de compensação de luz. o sombreamento reduziu drasticamente a multiplicação dos tubérculos. Plantas mantidas com luminosidade artificial de 15% da radiação solar tiveram o desenvolvimento subterrâneo muito prejudicado. A capacidade vegetativa da tiririca mostrou-se reprimida sòmente com redução acentuada da luminosidade.
Absorção de nutrientes por plantas de amendoim na cultura de outono
Authors: Coelho Fernando A. Soares , Tella Romeu de
Published: April 2009

É estudada a absorção e acumulação de elementos minerais e a acumulação de matéria sêca em plantas de amendoim, em diversas fases do ciclo vegetativo, em condições de campo. Os resultados indicam maiores concentrações de nitrogênio e fósforo nas sementes, potássio nas hastes, cálcio na folhagem, magnésio nas hastes e fôlhas e enxôfre nas raízes. Os elementos extraídos em maiores quantidades foram: nitrogênio, potássio e cálcio. Entre o início da floração e três semanas após o início da frutificação, foi absorvida a maior parte dos nutrientes. No tratamento com adubação, cêrca de 70% do total de elementos nutritivos foi absorvido nesse período. A acumulação de 74% e 48% do total de matéria sêca, respectivamente, para os tratamentos com e sem adubação, ocorreu nesse período, evidenciando a importância da disponibilidade de nutrientes às plantas, nessa fase.
Emprêgo de herbicidas na cultura da cana-de-açúcar em dois tipos de solo do Estado de São Paulo e sua influência na produtividade
Authors: Oliveira Hélcio de , Ometto José Carlos
Published: April 2009

São apresentados os dados de dois experimentos sôbre efeito de herbicidas na cultura da cana-de-açúcar em dois solos diferentes do Estado de São Paulo. Foram aplicados em pré-emergência, em duas doses, os herbicidas: Difenox A, Weedone L.V.-4, Bi-Hedonal, Karmex DW, Simazim M 50, Gesaprim M 50 e Kuron. O contrôle das ervas daninhas foi bom com o emprêgo da dose maior dos herbicidas, com exceção do Gesaprim M 50 em solo arenoso. Em dose menor houve bom efeito do Kuron, Karmex DW e Simazim M 50, no solo roxo-misturado. Além dêsses, o Difenox A e o Weedone L.V.,-4 controlaram bem em solo arenoso. Em solo arenoso, houve maior número de colmos nos canteiros tratados com Difenox A, Bi-Hedonal e Weedone L.V.-4, nas duas doses; Simazim e Gesaprim, nas doses maiores, e Karmex DW na dose menor. Nesse solo observou-se na produção efeito favorável dos herbicidas Simazim, Bi-Hedonal, Weedone L.V.-4, Difenox A e Kuron, nas duas doses; Gesaprim, na dose maior, e Karmex na menor. Em solo de terra-roxa-misturada não houve efeitos significativos.
Estudo da energética modal para episódios de ZCAS. Parte I: análise observacional
Authors: Mendonça Renata Weissmann Borges , Bonatti José Paulo
Published: April 2009

As trocas horizontais e verticais de energia para um composto de sete episódios de Zona de Convergência do Atlântico Sul (ZCAS), foram estudadas a partir da decomposição em modos normais, considerando-se a partição vertical de energia entre os modos externo e internos, e as interferências entre os modos horizontais de oscilação Rossby, Kelvin, Misto Rossby-Gravidade, Gravidade Oeste e Leste. Um máximo de porcentagem de energia total (aproximadamente 60%) é observado para os modos internos 4 a 7, com alturas equivalentes entre 100 e 600 metros, especialmente sobre grande parte da América do Sul central e próximo ao equador, incluindo a região da ZCAS. À medida que a latitude aumenta, a energia é distribuída para os modos mais externos (n=1 a 3). Para a partição horizontal de energia, as maiores contribuições foram obtidas para as auto-interações dos modos Rossby e Kelvin e interações cruzadas Rossby-Kelvin, em todas as categorias de modos verticais, sendo estas últimas responsáveis pelas interferências construtivas de energia na região da ZCAS. As interações entre modos verticais mostraram um aumento da porcentagem de energia dos Baixos Níveis para a Estratosfera, com máxima interferência positiva (negativa) de energia em Altos Níveis (Estratosfera), para os modos internos 4 a 7.
Reflectometria no domínio do tempo em estudos de lixiviação de potássio em colunas de solo não-saturado
Authors: Souza Anderson Luiz de , Matsura Edson Eiji , Miranda Jarbas Honorio de , Roque Marcio Willian , Bizari Douglas Roberto , Roque Wellington
Published: April 2009

Este trabalho tem como objetivos projetar e avaliar o potencial de colunas de solo não-saturado equipadas com sondas de TDR (Time domain reflectometry) e acopladas a um sistema automatizado de aquisição de dados no monitoramento da dinâmica da água e de potássio no solo. O ensaio experimental foi conduzido em uma coluna de acrílico de 35cm de diâmetro interno e 105cm de comprimento preenchida com terra fina seca ao ar. A técnica da TDR possibilitou a obtenção de uma malha espaço-temporal em curtos intervalos de tempo e da umidade e da condutividade elétrica (Ce) nas diferentes profundidades consideradas. Tal resultado pode trazer uma importante contribuição para o entendimento da dinâmica da água e do potássio na terra, auxiliando os trabalhos para proposição e validação de modelos matemáticos que descrevem numericamente esses processos.
Percepção de justiça e reações retaliatórias nas organizações: análise empírica de um modelo atitudinal
Authors: Mendonça Helenides , Tamayo Alvaro
Published: April 2009

Este estudo foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de testar um modelo teórico de estimativa da atitude em relação à retaliação. Participaram da pesquisa 313 empregados de uma instituição pública. Para testar a estrutura teórica hipotetizada sobre o fenômeno, foi aplicada a técnica estatística modelagem de equação estrutural. Dois conjuntos de resultados foram analisados: o ajuste global do modelo teórico hipotetizado e a estimativa da magnitude do efeito dos construtos sobre as variáveis mensuradas. Os coeficientes de ajuste do modelo foram estatisticamente significativos, indicando adequação dos pressupostos teóricos. A respeito da estimativa das relações entre as variáveis, os resultados indicam que o modelo teórico proposto é adequado e explica 81% da atitude em relação à retaliação. Estes resultados foram discutidos, adotando-se duas vertentes: uma que discute a adequação em utilizar medidas atitudinais em relação à retaliação, e a outra que aponta o contexto organizacional como o principal responsável pelo critério atitudinal.
Learning curve? Which one?
Authors: Prochno Paulo
Published: April 2009

Learning curves have been studied for a long time. These studies provided strong support to the hypothesis that, as organizations produce more of a product, unit costs of production decrease at a decreasing rate (see Argote, 1999 for a comprehensive review of learning curve studies). But the organizational mechanisms that lead to these results are still underexplored. We know some drivers of learning curves (ADLER; CLARK, 1991; LAPRE et al., 2000), but we still lack a more detailed view of the organizational processes behind those curves. Through an ethnographic study, I bring a comprehensive account of the first year of operations of a new automotive plant, describing what was taking place on in the assembly area during the most relevant shifts of the learning curve. The emphasis is then on how learning occurs in that setting. My analysis suggests that the overall learning curve is in fact the result of an integration process that puts together several individual ongoing learning curves in different areas throughout the organization. In the end, I propose a model to understand the evolution of these learning processes and their supporting organizational mechanisms.
Occurrence, distribution and abundance of Halobates micans Eschscholtz, 1822 (Heteroptera, Gerridae) along the southeastern Brazilian coast
Authors: Dias JF. , Lopes CL.
Published: April 2009

Data collected during an oceanographic cruise along the southeastern Brazilian coast from Cape Frio (22° 58' S) and Paraná (27° 50' S) in March 1982 showed that the marine insect Halobates micans occurred along the Southeastern Brazilian Bight, but in lower abundance in low-temperature areas due to the intrusion and upwelling of South Atlantic Central Water, and in low-salinity areas in Coastal Water. Insect capture was higher at night and in the oligotrophic Tropical Water. The number of nymphs and adult females was higher, probably because of an active breeding season during the austral summer. Adult sex ratio was 1.3:1.0 (F:M). Floating gas vesicles of benthic Sargassum spp. and petroleum lumps were used by females for egg-laying.
Ecology of the parasitic endohelminth community of Piaractus mesopotamicus (Holmberg, 1887) (Characiformes) from Aquidauana and Miranda Rivers, Pantanal, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Campos CM. , Takemoto RM. , Fonseca VE. , Moraes FR.
Published: April 2009

In this study the structure and diversity of the endohelminth community, as well as its interactions with 73 specimens of Piaractus mesopotamicus are described. The fish were caught in Aquidauana and Miranda rivers, both located in the Pantantal region, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. A total of 608,788 specimens of helminthes were found, representing five species: Dadaytrema oxycephala, Chabaudinema americanum, Spectatus spectatus, Rondonia rondoni and Echinorhynchus jucundum. D. oxycephala was more prevalent (91.78%) followed by R. rondoni (73.97%). Simpson's index indicated dominance in the endohelminth infracommunities (C = 0.396) and D. oxycephala was considered central species. A total of 54 hosts had between 2 and 3 species of helminthes. The pairs of the species R. rondoni/D. oxycephala and S. spectatus/D. oxycephala showed significant positive correlation between abundances. There was a significant positive correlation between total length and abundance of S. spectatus (rs = -0.2467 and p = 0.0353). Abundance of R. rondoni between the periods of 1/2003 and 2/2003 (p = 0.0356) and 1/2003 and 4/2004 (p = 0.0009) was significantly different. There was significant prevalence of E. jucundum in the female hosts.
Behaviour of albino and melanic variants of Biomphalaria glabrata Say, 1818 (Mollusca: Planorbidae) following infection by Schistosoma mansoni Sambon, 1907
Authors: Allegretti SM. , Carvalho JF. , Magalhães LA. , Zanotti-Magalhães EM.
Published: April 2009

The behaviour of the albino and melanic variants of Biomphalaria glabrata of Belo Horizonte (MG. Brazil) was studied comparatively, in terms of their respective susceptibilities to infection by Schistosoma mansoni of the same origin, through observation of the elimination of cercariae for a three-month period and the calculation of mortality and infection rates, in control and in infected snails. The number of amoebocytes, granulocytes and hyalinocytes in the circulating hemolymph during different periods of infection was analyzed. The evolution of the infection in the tissues was observed by means of histological cross-sections. The melanic variant showed greater susceptibility to infection and a higher mortality rate. The albino variant showed a higher number of circulating amoebocytes, both granulocytes and hyalinocytes. A higher number of degenerated sporocysts were seen in the histological cross-sections of the albino variant. The results suggest that the melanic variant of B. glabrata was more susceptible to infection by S. mansoni than was the albino variant.
Quality of Life in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Compared to the General Population and Patients with Other Chronic Conditions
Authors: HUDSON MARIE , THOMBS BRETT D. , STEELE RUSSELL , PANOPALIS PANTELIS , NEWTON EVAN , BARON MURRAY ,   for the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group
Published: April 2009

Objective.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) affects multiple physical, psychological, and social domains and is associated with impaired health-related quality of life (HRQOL).We compared the HRQOL of SSc patients with individuals in the general population and patients with other common chronic diseases.

Methods.

HRQOL of SSc patients in the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group registry was measured using version 2 of the Medical Outcomes Trust Short Form-36 (SF-36). Results were compared to US general population norms and scores reported for patients with other common chronic diseases, namely heart disease, lung disease, hypertension, diabetes, and depression.

Results.

SF-36 scores were available for 504 SSc patients (86% women, mean age 56 yrs, mean disease duration since onset of first non-Raynaud’s manifestation of SSc 11 yrs). The greatest impairment in SF-36 subscale scores appeared to be in the physical functioning, general health, and role physical domains. SF-36 subscale and summary scores in SSc were significantly worse compared to US general population norms for women of similar ages, except for mental health and mental component summary score, which were not significantly different, and were generally comparable to or worse than the scores of patients with other common chronic conditions.

Conclusion.

HRQOL of patients with SSc is significantly impaired compared to that of the general population and is comparable to or worse than that of patients with other common chronic conditions.
Mobile Education: Towards Affective Bi-modal Interaction for Adaptivity
Authors: Alepis Efthymios , Virvou M. , Kabassi K.
Published: April 2009

One important field where mobile technology can make significant contributions is education. However one criticism in mobile education is that students receive impersonal teaching. Affective computing may give a solution to this problem. In this paper we describe an affective bi-modal educational system for mobile devices. In our research we describe a novel approach of combining information from two modalities namely the keyboard and the microphone through a multi-criteria decision making theory.
Calcitriol Suppresses Antiretinal Autoimmunity through Inhibitory Effects on the Th17 Effector Response
Authors: Tang Jun , Zhou Ru , Luger Dror , Zhu Wei , Silver Phyllis B. , Grajewski Rafael S. , Su Shao-Bo , Chan Chi-Chao , Adorini Luciano , Caspi Rachel R.
Published: April 2009

Experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) serves as a model for human autoimmune uveitis and for cell-mediated autoimmunity in general. EAU induced in mice by immunization with the retinal Ag interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein in CFA is driven by the Th17 response. Oral calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3) prevented as well as partly reversed disease and suppressed immunological responses. In vitro, calcitriol directly suppressed IL-17 induction in purified naive CD4+ T cells without inhibiting Th17 lineage commitment, as reflected by unaltered RORγt, STAT3, and FoxP3 expression. In contrast, in vivo treatment with calcitriol of mice challenged for EAU impaired commitment to the Th17 lineage, as judged by reduction of both RORγt and IL-17 in CD4+ T cells. Innate immune response parameters in draining lymph nodes of treated mice were suppressed, as was production of IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-12/IL-23p40, but not IL-10, by explanted splenic dendritic cells (DC). Finally, supernatants of calcitriol-conditioned bone marrow-derived DC had reduced ability to support Th17 polarization of naive CD4+ T cells in vitro and in vivo. Thus, calcitriol appears to suppress autoimmunity by inhibiting the Th17 response at several levels, including the ability of DC to support priming of Th17 cells, the ability of CD4+ T cells to commit to the Th17 lineage, and the ability of committed Th17 T cells to produce IL-17.