bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensorimotor Memory For Fingertip Forces: Evidence For A Task-Independent Motor Memory
Authors: Quaney Barbara M. , Rotella Diane L. , Peterson Clayton , Cole Kelly J.
Published: April 2018

When repetitively lifting an object with randomly varying mechanical properties, the fingertip forces reflect the previous lift. We examined the specificity of this “sensorimotor memory” by observing the effects of an isolated pinch on the subsequent lift of a known object. In this case, the pinch force was unrelated to the fingertip forces necessary to grip the object efficiently. The peak grip force used to lift the test object (4 N weight) depended on the preceding task. Compared with repetitively lifting the 4 N test object, the peak grip force was 2 N greater when a lift of the same object was preceded by a lift in which a hidden mass was attached to the object to increase the weight to 8 N. This 2 N increase in grip force also occurred when subjects lifted the 4 N test object after pinching a force transducer with a force of 8 N. Thus, similar grip forces were stored in sensorimotor memory for both tasks, and reflected subjects' use of 7.9 ± 1.1 N to lift the 8 N object. Similar effects occurred when the preceding pinch or lift was performed with the opposite hand. The peak lift force was unaffected by the isolated pinch, suggesting that a generalized increase in fingertip and limb forces did not occur. We conclude that the sensorimotor memory is not specific for lifting an object. It is doubtful that this particular memory stores the physical properties of objects or reflects a forward internal model for predictively controlling fingertip forces.
SCREENING OF TETRACYCLINE AND FLORFENICOL ANTIBIOTIC RESIDUES IN BROILER MEAT USING ELISA AND CONFIRMATION BY LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY/TANDEM MASS SPECTROMETRY
Authors: TEKGÜL Yeliz , KÖK Filiz
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to
investigate the presence of tetracycline and florfenicol residues in broiler
meat that sailed in Aydın city, Turkey. For this purpose, 80 broiler meats that
brands of local and national commercial were used. ELISA technique was used to
investigate the presence of antibiotic residues and liquid chromatography/
tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) technique was used to confirm the residue.
As result of the ELISA, 24 samples 30%) were positive for tetracycline.
Florfenicol residues were found in any of the samples. 24 samples that is
confirmed by LC-MS/MS were included an average of 30 ppb level. Residual
amounts of the samples were found to be below the maximum residue limit (MRL)
values.
βv SEEDING AS AN ALTERNATIVE PRE-CRYSTALLIZATION TECHNIQUE IN SYNBIOTIC MILK CHOCOLATE PRODUCTION
Authors: TOKER Ömer Said , Rasouli Pirouzian Haniyeh , Konar Nevzat , Polat Derya Genç
Published: April 2018

In the present study, synbiotic
milk chocolate including Lactobacillus
acidophilus and inulin was prepared using βv seeds as an
alternative to conventional tempering method. For this aim, different
concentrations of βv seeds (0.5-1.5%) were used in the chocolate
production. The effect of βv seed concentration on water activity,
moisture content, hardness value, color and rheological properties of the
chocolate was examined and compared with those of the sample produced by
conventional tempering method. Water activity and moisture content values of
the samples were found to be very close to each other. Hardness value was
significantly affected by βv seed concentration. Yield stress and
plastic viscosity values decreased with increasing seed concentration. All of
the quality parameters highlighted that βv seed can be used as a
pre-crystallization technique without negatively affecting quality
characteristics, providing economic gain and fast production when compared with
classical one.
PET response assessment in apatinib-treated radioactive iodine-refractory thyroid cancer
Authors: Wang Chen , Zhang Xin , Yang Xue , Li Hui , Cui Ruixue , Guan Wenmin , Li Xin , Zhu Zhaohui , Lin Yansong
Published: April 2018

This work evaluated the use of the positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) technique to assess the early therapeutic response and predict the prognosis of patients with radioactive iodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RAIR-DTC) who underwent apatinib therapy. Standardised uptake value (SUV), metabolic tumour volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG), derived from18F-FDG PET/CT and SUV from68Ga-NOTA-PRGD2 PET/CT were evaluated. Tumour response was evaluated using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1. Sixteen of 20 patients achieved partial response (PR) and four of 20 had stable disease (SD) after apatinib therapy. Six progression-free survival (PFS) events occurred. A strong correlation was observed between the best change in the sum of the longest diameters of target lesions (ΔCT%) and18F-FDG PET/CT indices after the completion of the first treatment cycle (ΔMTV% (P = 0.0019), ΔTLG% (P = 0.0021) and ΔSUVmax% (P = 0.0443)). A significant difference in PFS was observed between patients with ΔMTV% <−45% and ≥−45% (P = 0.0019) and between patients with ΔTLG% <−80% and ≥−80% (P = 0.0065). Ten of 11 patients presented a decrease in SUVmax on68Ga-NOTA-PRGD2 PET/CT after two cycles of apatinib therapy and showed PR, whereas one patient presenting an increase in SUVmax only showed SD as the best response. When a cut-off value of the target/background ratio at −20% was used, two PFS curves showed a significant difference (P = 0.0016). Hence, early assessment by18F-FDG and68Ga-NOTA-PRGD2 PET/CT was effective in the prediction and evaluation of RAIR-DTC treated with apatinib.
Androgen receptor moonlighting in the prostate cancer microenvironment
Authors: Cioni B , Zwart W , Bergman A M
Published: April 2018

Androgen receptor (AR) signaling is vital for the normal development of the prostate and is critically involved in prostate cancer (PCa). AR is not only found in epithelial prostate cells but is also expressed in various cells in the PCa-associated stroma, which constitute the tumor microenvironment (TME). In the TME, AR is expressed in fibroblasts, macrophages, lymphocytes and neutrophils. AR expression in the TME was shown to be decreased in higher-grade and metastatic PCa, suggesting that stromal AR plays a protective role against PCa progression. With that, the functionality of AR in stromal cells appears to deviate from the receptor’s classical function as described in PCa cells. However, the biological action of AR in these cells and its effect on cancer progression remains to be fully understood. Here, we systematically review the pathological, genomic and biological literature on AR actions in various subsets of prostate stromal cells and aim to better understand the consequences of AR signaling in the TME in relation to PCa development and progression.
SULFATION PATHWAYS: Steroid sulphatase inhibition via aryl sulphamates: clinical progress, mechanism and future prospects
Authors: Potter Barry V L
Published: April 2018

Steroid sulphatase is an emerging drug target for the endocrine therapy of hormone-dependent diseases, catalysing oestrogen sulphate hydrolysis to oestrogen. Drug discovery, developing the core arylO-sulphamate pharmacophore, has led to steroidal and non-steroidal drugs entering numerous clinical trials, with promising results in oncology and women’s health. Steroidal oestrogen sulphamate derivatives were the first irreversible active-site-directed inhibitors and one was developed clinically as an oral oestradiol pro-drug and for endometriosis applications. This review summarizes work leading to the therapeutic concept of sulphatase inhibition, clinical trials executed to date and new insights into the mechanism of inhibition of steroid sulphatase. To date, the non-steroidal sulphatase inhibitor Irosustat has been evaluated clinically in breast cancer, alone and in combination, in endometrial cancer and in prostate cancer. The versatile core pharmacophore both imbues attractive pharmaceutical properties and functions via three distinct mechanisms of action, as a pro-drug, an enzyme active-site-modifying motif, likely through direct sulphamoyl group transfer, and as a structural component augmenting activity, for example by enhancing interactions at the colchicine binding site of tubulin. Preliminary new structural data on thePseudomonas aeruginosaarylsulphatase enzyme suggest two possible sulphamate-based adducts with the active site formylglycine as candidates for the inhibition end product via sulphamoyl or sulphonylamine transfer, and a speculative choice is suggested. The clinical status of sulphatase inhibition is surveyed and how it might develop in the future. Also discussed are dual-targeting approaches, development of 2-substituted steroidal sulphamates and non-steroidal derivatives as multi-targeting agents for hormone-independent tumours, with other emerging directions.
Sleep-Active Neurons: Conserved Motors of Sleep
Authors: Bringmann Henrik
Published: April 2018

Sleep is crucial for survival and well-being. This behavioral and physiological state has been studied in all major genetically accessible model animals, including rodents, fish, flies, and worms. Genetic and optogenetic studies have identified several neurons that control sleep, making it now possible to compare circuit mechanisms across species. The “motor” of sleep across animal species is formed by neurons that depolarize at the onset of sleep to actively induce this state by directly inhibiting wakefulness. These sleep-inducing neurons are themselves controlled by inhibitory or activating upstream pathways, which act as the “drivers” of the sleep motor: arousal inhibits “sleep-active” neurons whereas various sleep-promoting “tiredness” pathways converge onto sleep-active neurons to depolarize them. This review provides the first overview of sleep-active neurons across the major model animals. The occurrence of sleep-active neurons and their regulation by upstream pathways in both vertebrate and invertebrate species suggests that these neurons are general and ancient components that evolved early in the history of nervous systems.
Uropathogens and Pyuria in Children With Neurogenic Bladders
Authors: Forster Catherine S. , Shaikh Nader , Hoberman Alejandro , Jackson Elizabeth
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND:

A recent study revealed that specific uropathogens are associated with lower odds of pyuria in a general pediatrics population. Children with neurogenic bladders who require clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) frequently have pyuria. Our objective with this study was to determine if an association exists between pyuria and type of uropathogen in CIC-dependent children.

METHODS:

We obtained urinalysis and urine culture results from electronic medical records from January 2008 through December 2014 for patients ≤18 years of age with neurogenic bladders managed at a single institution. Cultures without concurrent urinalyses were excluded from analysis, as were cultures that yielded no growth, fungal growth, or growth of unidentified mixed organisms. We used logistic regression to determine the association of pyuria and leukocyte esterase with specific uropathogens.

RESULTS:

We included 2420 cultures in this analysis. The growth of Enterococcus on urine culture was associated with lower odds of both pyuria and leukocyte esterase. In contrast, the growth of more than 100 000 colony-forming units per milliliter of Proteus mirabilis was associated with increased odds of both pyuria and leukocyte esterase, and the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was associated with increased odds of leukocyte esterase but not pyuria. Certain etiologies of neurogenic bladder, such as bladder exstrophy and cloacal malformations, were also associated with increased odds of pyuria compared with neurogenic bladder due to myelomeningocele.

CONCLUSIONS:

In children with neurogenic bladders who require CIC, Enterococcus may grow in urine culture without pyuria or positive leukocyte esterase. Accordingly, urine cultures should be obtained in symptomatic children, regardless of urinalysis results.
Adaptação de bebês à creche aos 4-5 meses de idade: as 10 primeiras semanas
Authors: Rapoport Andrea , Bossi Tatiele Jacques , Piccinini Cesar Augusto
Published: April 2018

O objetivo deste estudo foi examinar o período de adaptação à creche de bebês de 4-5 meses durante as 10 primeiras semanas. Em particular buscou-se investigar as estratégias de enfrentamento utilizadas pelos bebês durante esse período. Participaram 3 bebês que ingressaram na creche aos 4-5 meses, suas mães e educadoras. Trata-se de um estudo de caso múltiplo, no qual foram realizadas entrevistas com as mães, observações dos bebês na creche e as educadoras preenchiam um protocolo de ocorrências com cada bebê. A análise qualitativa dos dados apontou que os bebês fizeram uso de diferentes estratégias de enfrentamento durante a adaptação à creche, o que sugere que esse período foi vivenciado com estresse. E o tempo de permanência na creche ao longo do período investigado não diminuiu necessariamente o uso dessas estratégias. Os resultados sugerem que a adaptação à creche em bebês de 4-5 meses não é um processo linear, já que ocorreram avanços e retrocessos no período investigado.
O efeito Simon induzido pela direção do olhar em faces de dor e alegria
Authors: Do Nascimento Paulo Frassinetti Delfino , Alves Nelson Torro , Fernandes Ana Mércia , Da Silva José Aparecido , Gawryszewski Luiz de Gonzaga , Lameira Allan Pablo
Published: April 2018

Embora irrelevante para a tarefa, a direção do olhar pode influenciar o tempo de reação em uma tarefa de Simon, gerando automaticamente um código espacial. Expressões faciais influenciam as respostas dos observadores, ativando tendências comportamentais de aproximação ou afastamento. No presente estudo, investigamos se a facilitação da resposta desencadeada pela direção do olhar seria reduzida na avaliação de expressões faciais de dor em comparação com alegria. Foi também analisado o efeito de sequência da apresentação das expressões, onde a facilitação ou inibição provocada por uma expressão emocional afeta a resposta na prova subsequente. Os resultados mostram que as faces dolorosas causam inibição da resposta na prova atual e posterior, indicando empatia emocional pela dor. O tipo da expressão facial não influenciou a facilitação da resposta promovida pela direção do olhar. Esta metodologia é apresentada como uma estratégia para investigar a empatia emocional, especialmente nos distúrbios relacionados à redução da empatia.
Unidade de Polícia Pacificadora: suas representações sociais no morro e no asfalto
Authors: Weimer Karen Sibila Strobel Moreira , De Sá Celso Pereira
Published: April 2018

Este estudo analisou representações sociais construídas por moradores de um bairro do Rio de Janeiro e das comunidades lá situadas, acerca das modificações associadas à instalação de uma Unidade de Polícia Pacificadora. A amostra foi composta por 200 participantes, sendo 100 da parte plana do bairro e 100 das comunidades localizadas no morro. O instrumento utilizado envolveu: dados sociodemográficos; tarefa de evocação livre de palavras ao termo indutor “UPP”; questões referentes a mudanças devidas à implantação do projeto e expectativas quanto ao seu futuro. Os resultados sugerem que os dois conjuntos de elementos cognitivos levantados constituem uma única representação, visto que as diferenças no nível central de suas estruturas são mínimas. Apresentam caráter predominantemente positivo, tendo em comum os elementos “segurança”, “paz” e “tranquilidade”, de natureza normativa, e o elemento “melhoria”, de natureza funcional, característico apenas do núcleo central da representação do Morro.
Tríade madrasta-enteado-mãe: reflexões acerca da maternidade
Authors: Féres-Carneiro Terezinha , Dantas Cristina Ribeiro , Machado Rebeca Nonato , Magalhães Andrea Seixas
Published: April 2018

O presente estudo é parte de uma investigação mais ampla sobre a conjugalidade e a parentalidade no recasamento e tem como objetivo investigar a trama interacional entre a madrasta, seus enteados e as mães destes. Para tanto, realizou-se uma pesquisa qualitativa, na qual foram entrevistadas 16 madrastas do segmento socioeconômico médio, com idades entre 28 e 43 anos. Os resultados foram analisados de acordo com o método de análise de conteúdo na sua vertente categorial. Da análise do material emergiram seis categorias de análise. Para atingir os objetivos formulados neste trabalho, será discutida a categoria tríade madrastaenteado- mãe. Constatou-se que a interação na tríade é influenciada pelo processo relativo à elaboração do luto pela separação anterior, pelos papéis de gênero e pelo estereótipo da ‘mãe insubstituível’.
Avaliação cognitiva de condutores automotivos idosos: revisão integrativa
Authors: Vasques Adriana Machado , Portuguez Mirna Wetters , Radaelli Graciane , Gomes Roberta
Published: April 2018

O presente estudo investigou a eficiência de testes cognitivos na avaliação da capacidade de condução automotiva em idosos, através de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, utilizando artigos publicados na base de dados PubMed, entre outubro de 2011 a outubro de 2016. Foram identificados apenas 15 artigos. Os testes mais investigados foram o Mini Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM), o Teste das Trilhas e o Desenho do relógio, apresentando resultados contraditórios e pouco consistentes. Nenhum dos estudos inclui a população brasileira. Até o momento não há uma bateria de testes recomendada para avaliação de condutores idosos que possa auxiliar na importante tarefa de aconselhar a continuação ou interrupção da atividade em condutores idosos.
CLUSTER DEVELOPMENT OF THE AGRI-FOOD SPHERE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION: THE FOREIGN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY ASPECT
Authors: Samofatova V.
Published: April 2018

The article has analyzed the "cluster" category, the expected positive effects of the creation and development of clusters in the agri-food sphere of the Southern region have been grounded and the European clustering experience has been considered. The concept of a cluster as a unique organizational and economic formation has been investigated. The advantages of clustering in the agri-food sphere of the region for increasing its competitiveness in foreign markets have been analyzed. It has been shown, that cluster initiatives in the agri-food sphere of the regions are a popular platform for cooperation between countries. It was noted, that the regions in which the clusters function are becoming leaders in the economies of certain countries. It has been concluded, that the effectiveness of interaction in a cluster is determined by the optimality of the combination of interests of all major groups of participants. The development of clusters will be more effective if they are implemented on the basis of the principle of "reasonable specialization", that is, taking into account the unique competitive advantages of the region. In addition, success will depend on the ability to adapt to the environment.
CURRENT ASSETS OF THE ENTERPRISE: THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL ASPECTS
Authors: Kuprina N. , Chernenko I.
Published: April 2018

In the article the concepts and categories of nature of the categories "current assets", "workingcapital", "current funds" have been examined and investigated the relationship between these categoriesand approaches to classification of current assets of enterprise that are presented in the publications ofdomestic and foreign scientists. The have been investigated analysis of composition, structure anddynamics of the working capital of an enterprise and its separate elements were made for four years,which is invested in its current assets based on the data of food industry enterprises of Odesa region.Estimation of the effect of turnover of enterprise working capital invested in accounts receivable andreserves on liquidity of current assets has been was made. The ways of increasing efficiency of currentassets use in PLC “Odesaconditer” were proposed.
АСПЕКТИ ОБЛІКУ РОЗРАХУНКІВ З ПОКУПЦЯМИ ТА ЗАМОВНИКАМИ ЗА ГОТОВУ ПРОДУКЦІЮ В СУЧАСНИХ УМОВАХ
Authors: Маркова Т. Д. , Стрепенюк М. М. , Римар Г. А.
Published: April 2018

У статті розглядається сутність поняття «дебіторська заборгованість», «готова продукція», те-оретичні та практичні аспекти організації обліку розрахунків з вітчизняними покупцями та замовникамиза реалізацію готової продукції на підприємстві. На базі дослідження та узагальнення сформовановласну дефініцію понять «дебіторська заборгованість» та «готова продукція». Здійснено аналіз пито-мої ваги дебіторської заборгованості підприємств за економічних видом діяльності промисловість таобсяг реалізованої промислової продукції України. Визначено першочергові завдання дієвої організа-ції обліку реалізації готової продукції покупцям та замовникам. Пропонується ведення аналітичного(індивідуального) обліку розрахунків з покупцями та замовниками, який викликаний різними строкамидебіторської заборгованості та видом діяльності. Обґрунтовано ризик наданням комерційного кредиту,що зумовлює створення безнадійної дебіторської заборгованості.
In Vitro Studies of Antifungal Activity of Colloidal Silver against Important Plants Pathogens
Authors: VENAT Oana , IACOMI Beatrice , PETICILĂ Adrian G.
Published: April 2018

Colloids and especially silver are increasingly used in a variety of worldwide applications because of their potential antimicrobial activity and their plasmotic and conductivity properties. This research reports the fungitoxic properties of colloidal silver on mycelial growth of important plant pathogens: Alternaria brassicicola, Botrytis cinerea, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium culmorum, Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillium digitatum and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Although variable responses towards each compound were observed within the species the results revealed a clear reaction to limiting mycelium growth relative to various concentration of Colloidal silver (CS). Results were expressed as effective concentrations which inhibit mycelial growth by 50% and 90% respectively (EC50 and EC90). Efficiency of colloidal silver on mycelial growth inhibition of different isolates based on EC50 have the following values: 3.69 ppm for Alternaria brassicicola, 7.32 ppm for Botrytis cinerea, 18.21 ppm for Aspergillus flavus, 10.43 ppm for Aspergillus niger, 11.99 ppm for Fusarium culmorum, 12.27 ppm for Fusarium oxysporum, 10.82 ppm for Penicillium digitatum and 6.34 ppm for Sclerotinia. According to the obtained results the antifungal activity of colloidal silver particles as biocide has potential for using it as a non-aggressive treatment in horticulture and sustainable horticulture.
Molecular Identification of Pm4 Powdery Mildew Resistant Gene in Oat
Authors: OKOŃ Sylwia Magdalena , OCIEPA Tomasz , NUCIA Aleksandra
Published: April 2018

The selection of specific plants with desirable traits supported by molecular markers is one of the most important tools in modern breeding programs, which lead to reduce time and cost of selection. The aim of presented study was identification of dominant markers associated with Pm4 powdery mildew resistant gene in oat. To identify dominant silicoDArT markers for Pm4 gene, F2 mapping population ‘Av1860’ × ‘Fuchs’ were analyzed using DArTseq methodology. Among obtained 46 230 silicoDArT markers, 126 markers were high correlated with resistance to powdery mildew in oat conditioned by Pm4 gene. Among selected markers, 48 sequences have been chosen for potential conversion into specific STS markers. Finally, only 20 were suitable for primer design. As a result, 5 converted markers amplified expected products in resistant bulks, 3 of them segregated according to resistance in the whole population and shoved high correlation coefficient between marker and phenotype observation. Converted markers based on PCR could be used for identification of Pm4 gene in oat. Obtained results confirm the possibility of converting silicoDArT markers into PCR-based technique, which can be used in marker assisted selection (MAS).
Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Common Bush Bean to Drought
Authors: SÁNCHEZ-REINOSO Alefsi David , LIGARRETO-MORENO Gustavo Adolfo , RESTREPO-DÍAZ Hermann
Published: April 2018

Agriculture has been adversely affected by the low water availability resulting from climate change, creating environmental stress for the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). A growth room experiment was performed to evaluate the physiological and biochemical responses of the several bush bean genotypes to water deficit conditions. Plants in soil with 20 g∙L-1 polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG) were subjected to drought for 15 d. The levels of photosynthesis, stomatal conductance and transpiration in all genotypes decreased by approximately 65% under water deficit conditions compared with the corresponding values in the controls. Water use efficiency was enhanced by water deficit conditions, with ʻBiancaʼ plants exhibiting the highest values (28.08 µmol∙mol-1), followed by ʻNUA35ʼ, ʻBachueʼ and ʻCerinzaʼ (20.46, 20.11 and 18.21 µmol∙mol-1, respectively). The ʻBiancaʼ plants exhibited a lower relative tolerance index (50%), and water deficit increased the levels of leaf photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll and carotenoids in this genotype by approximately 100%. The photosynthetic efficiency, which was evaluated using the Fv/Fm ratio and rapid light-derived parameters (the maximum electron transport rate and a light saturation parameter), decreased due to water deficit conditions, particularly in the ʻBiancaʼ plants, in which these parameters were reduced by approximately 60%. The proline and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were increased by the addition of PEG, primarily in the ʻBacatáʼ and ʻBiancaʼ plants. In conclusion, our results suggest that rapid light-response curves can be useful for characterizing genotypes because they represent an easy and non-destructive tool for understanding acclimatization mechanisms under water deficit conditions. In addition, all genotypes exhibited susceptibility to water deficit conditions, and the most susceptible genotype was ʻBiancaʼ, as reflected by a significant reduction in the electron transport rate and the presence of oxidative damage (high MDA content and electrolyte leakage), suggesting that this cultivar could not adapt well to landscaping situations in which periods of extreme water deficit can be expected.
Development of a Mitochondrial SCAR Marker Related to Susceptibility of Banana (Musa AAA Cavendish) to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cubense Race 4
Authors: WANG Fang , XIA Ling , LV Shun , XU Chunxiang , NIU Yuqing , LIU Wenqing , ZENG Lisha , ZHOU Jiankun , HU Bei
Published: April 2018

The use of resistant cultivars is an effective method for the control of banana (Musa spp.) Fusarium wilt caused by race 4 of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc4). However, selection of disease-resistant cultivars requires large-scale field evaluations and is time-consuming. Development of early, reliable, and reproducible selection strategies can speed up this process. Sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers have been widely employed in the resistant breeding of many crops. However, to date, there have been no reports about the presence of plant disease resistance-related SCAR markers in mitochondrial genome yet, which also plays a very important role in plant defenses. In the present study, a sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) marker, a specific fragment of 829 bp, was identified. This fragment could be amplified from Foc4-susceptible but not from the resistant cultivars. It was located in banana mitochondrial genome and mapped near the putative cytochrome c biogenesis ccmB-like mitochondrial protein. This fragment was then successfully converted into a SCAR marker, namely Mito-Foc-S001, which was found to be able to discriminate the resistance from susceptibility to Fusarium wilt disease of bananas with the discriminatory power of the new mark being 96.88%. Thus, this marker can be used in banana (Musa AAA Cavendish) breeding for Fusarium wilt disease resistance.
Effects of Culture Media on Phytophthora palmivora Growth, α-elicitin Production and Toxicity to Dendrobium
Authors: KHAIRUM Apinya , POOLSAWAT Oythip , PORNBUNGKERD Paniti , THARAPREUKSAPONG Akkawat , WONGKAEW Sopone , TANTASAWAT Piyada A.
Published: April 2018

Four culture media were evaluated for their ability to induce Phytophthora palmivora growth and produce culture filtrate (CF), and to determine a CF concentration and culture period effective for in vitro screening of black rot resistance in Dendrobium cv. ‘Earsakul’. Mycelial fresh weights of P. palmivora cultured in potato dextrose broth (PDB; the most commonly used medium for fungi), pea sucrose broth (PSB; a medium frequently used for Phytophthora spp.), and Murashige and Skoog broth (MSB; the most popular plant tissue culture medium) were found to be significantly higher than that in the newly developed modified oat meal broth (MOMB). When the total proteins of CFs were analysed with SDS-PAGE, a protein band of 10.5 kDa MW was found in CFs from all media with the highest level in PSB. LC-MS/MS analysis identified this protein as α-elicitin that had an identical amino acid sequence to the α-elicitin hibernalin of P. hibernalis and syringicin from P. syringae. The optimum conditions for in vitro selection of Dendrobium for black rot resistance using α-elicitin-containing CFs were also determined by evaluating the CF toxicity on Dendrobium protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) when cultured in all media supplemented with 0, 30, 50 and 100% CFs for seven, 14 and 21 d. The levels of PLB necrosis varied according to medium types, CF concentrations and culture periods. The maximum percentage of PLB necrosis (100%) was obtained in PSB supplemented with 50 and 100% CFs, and the severity of PLB necrosis was highest when treated with 100% CF for 14 and 21 d.
Occurrence, Identification, and Pathogenicity of Fusarium spp. Associated with Tomato Wilt in Mexico
Authors: ISAAC Micah R. , LEYVA-MIR Santos G. , SAHAGÚN-CASTELLANOS Jaime , CÂMARA-CORREIA Kamila , TOVAR-PEDRAZA Juan M. , RODRÍGUEZ-PÉREZ Juan E.
Published: April 2018

Fusarium wilt is considered as one of the most important diseases that affects tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cultivation. The objective of this study was to identify and characterize Fusarium species with the potential to cause tomato wilt using morphological and molecular approaches, in order to generate the necessary information to achieve effective control of this disease. Fusarium isolates were found associated with commercial grown cultivars with disease incidence ranging from 10 to 85%. Forty isolates were identified by morphological characteristics as Fusarium oxysporum (38) and as Fusarium sp. (2). The isolates were evaluated for their pathogenicity on healthy tomato seedlings, which presented root rot at 20–35 days after inoculation. Fifteen of the most pathogenic isolates were analyzed with the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of DNA and the partial sequence of the translation elongation factor 1α (EF-1α). Isolates associated with tomato wilt, were identified molecularly as Fusarium oxysporum (13), Fusarium circinatum (1), and Fusarium andiyazi (1). Both analysis revealed that the mayor agent of tomato wilt in Mexico was F. oxysporum. This finding provides relevant information on tomato wilt in Mexico to decide the proper control methods for the pathogen.
Variation in Organic Acid, Sugar and Phenolic Compounds in Fruits of Historical Apple Cultivars
Authors: CELIK Ferit , GUNDOGDU Muttalip , ERCISLI Sezai , KAKI Baris , BERK Selma , ILHAN Gulce , SAGBAS Halil Ibrahim
Published: April 2018

Knowledge about diversity of local apple cultivars is particularly important and helps to ensure that specific cultivars are available when and where farmers need them. The phenolic content, organic acids and sugars were investigated in the four historical apple cultivars (‘Aslik’, ‘Cebegirmez’, ‘Bey Elmasi’ and ‘Arapkizi’) grown in Van province, located in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey. In the study, ellagic acid (63.034 mg per 100 ml) was found to be higher than other phenolic compounds and followed by vanilic acid, caffeic acid and routine, respectively. When examined the apple cultivars, it has been found that the ‘Bey Elmasi’ cultivar has the highest content of six phenolic acids (chlorogenic, ferulic, o-coumaric, p-coumaric, catechin and quercetin). The organic acid contents were as follows: malic>fumaric>succinic>citric>tartaric among cultivars. ‘Arapkizi’ cultivar possessed the highest value of four organic acids except of tartaric acid. It was determined that fructose was the major sugar for all apple cultivars. There was a positive correlation among gallic, ellagic acid and routine. Similarly, the positive correlation was observed among malic, fumaric and succinic acid. However the negative correlation between citric acid and all sugars was observed. As a result, ‘Bey Elmasi’ and ‘Arapkizi’ cultivars with higher phenolic content, ‘Arapkizi’ cultivar with higher organic acid content and ‘Aslik’ cultivar with higher sugar content comes to the foreground. Results indicated the importance of local apple germplasm to use of them for future apple breeding activities to increase inner quality.
Study of the Major Pathogens That Lead to Apple Fruit Decay During Storage
Authors: FLORIAN Vasile C. , PUIA Carmen , GROZA Radu , SUCIU Loredana A. , FLORIAN Teodora
Published: April 2018

Different pathogenic fungi (e.g. Penicillium spp., Monilinia fructigena, Venturia inaequalis, Glomerella cingulata, Diaporthe eres etc.) can cause apple rot by producing pectic enzymes that break down apple pectin to expose the nutrients of the cells to the fungi. This study aimed to identify the pathogens that lead to the degradation of apples from five different varieties (‘Granny Smith’, ‘Topaz’, ‘Imperial Gala’, ‘Jonagold’ and ‘Golden Reinders’) and also the incidence of those pathogens under different treatment conditions. The results reveal different frequent attacks on distinct varieties ranging from 5 to over 50%. Of the pathogens that infect and occur in vegetation and deposit it can be seen that Venturia inaequalis has been identified in all varieties in most test variants. The highest frequency was recorded in the variant where during the vegetation period no treatments with fungicides against apple diseases were applied. Of the pathogens that infected and appeared during storage, isolated on the fruits, only Fusarium spp. and Penicillium spp. had a higher frequency. Applying treatments during the growing season reduced the rotting attack degree of apple fruits during storage. The best response to rot attack in the warehouse was ‘Topaz’ and ‘Jonagold’, the attack degree ranged between 0.3 and 10% on treated variants. By applying chemical treatments, the spectrum and the share of pathogens that lead to fruit degradation is different. This means that chemical treatments must be chosen depending on the nature of the pathogens and the apple variety.
Comparative evaluation of properties of a clay based ceramic shaped via four techniques
Authors: Torres C. I. , Rendtorff N. M. , Cipollone M. , Aglietti E. F. , Suárez G.
Published: April 2018

Abstract The results of qualitative and quantitative properties of clay based ceramic are presented in this work. Four different shaping methods and sintering temperatures were used to understand their influence in the final properties of a ceramic material formulated using kaolinite clay and calcined alumina. This material can be used as a structural ceramic for different applications, and there is no pre-established relation between the forming method and the final sintered properties. Forming methods used to prepare the samples were uniaxial pressing (a batch process that allows application in dry samples), extruding (a continuous process that requires moisture), slip casting (a process that allows to shape complex ceramic ware), and lamination (a batch process that requires moisture). Sintering temperatures were in the range of 1100 and 1400 °C. In order to compare how properties behave as the shaping method and sintering temperature change, textural properties, shrinkage, porosimetry, phase composition and mechanical strength were evaluated and analyzed. Scanning electron microscopy and microtomography were employed for analyzing and comparing the developed microstructures. Differences in the resulting properties are explained in terms of the developed crystalline phases and microstructure.
Influência da cristalização na dureza, módulo de elasticidade e tenacidade à fratura por indentação em vitrocerâmicas de dissilicato de lítio (Li2 O.2SiO2 )
Authors: Braun S. E. , Mikowski A. , Comin A. N. , Thesing L. A. , Soares P. , Lepienski C. M.
Published: April 2018

Resumo O efeito da cristalização sobre as propriedades mecânicas (dureza, módulo de elasticidade e tenacidade à fratura por indentação) do vitrocerâmico dissilicato de lítio Li2O.2SiO2 foi investigado pela técnica de indentação (indentação instrumentada, microdurezas Vickers e Knoop). Os tratamentos térmicos para cristalização foram realizados em duas etapas: nucleação em 475 °C por 2, 5 e 10 h, e crescimento de cristais em 563 °C por 0,5, 1, 2, 3 e 24 h. Foram determinadas as frações cristalizadas, que foram correlacionadas com a dureza, o módulo de elasticidade e a tenacidade à fratura por indentação. Os testes de microdureza foram realizados utilizando-se penetradores Vickers e Knoop. O módulo de elasticidade das regiões amorfas e cristalinas foi medido por testes de indentação instrumentada com um indentador Berkovich, realizado em cada fase separadamente. A modificação da morfologia das trincas geradas por indentação com pontas piramidais foi avaliada para amostras com diferentes frações cristalinas utilizando microscopia óptica. Foi discutida a alteração dos padrões de trincas, para diferentes graus de cristalização, na forma de determinação da tenacidade à fratura por indentação. Os maiores valores de dureza e tenacidade foram obtidos em amostras com 100% de fração cristalina, sendo que maiores tempos de nucleação de cristais levaram a melhores valores nas propriedades mecânicas investigadas. Os valores obtidos para amostras 100% de fração cristalina foram: tenacidade à fratura por indentação de 1,8 MPa.m1/2, microdureza Knoop de 7,2 GPa e módulo de elasticidade de 155 GPa.
Estudo do comportamento e caracterização de argilas bentoníticas após processo de liofilização
Authors: Machado M. C. P. , Langbehn J. T. , Oliveira C. M. , Elyseu F. , Cargnin M. , Noni Jr. A. De , Frizon T. E. A. , Peterson M.
Published: April 2018

Resumo Bentonita é um tipo de argila composta principalmente de montmorilonita. Possui excelentes propriedades de adsorção e como principais características a alta capacidade de troca catiônica, capacidade de inchamento, grande área superficial e baixa condutividade hidráulica. A bentonita é utilizada como matéria-prima em mais de 40 aplicações industriais. O processo de liofilização consiste na secagem de um produto, passando pela etapa de sublimação, para remoção da água contida utilizando baixa pressão e impedindo qualquer atividade biológica e reações químicas. Ele é eficiente em características como contração do produto, perda de voláteis, decomposição térmica, ações enzimáticas e desnaturação de proteínas, se comparado com outros meios de desidratação, ou seja, mantém a integridade do produto. Neste trabalho, foi avaliado o comportamento e realizada a caracterização de bentonita sódica mais ativa e sódica menos ativa, antes e após o processo de liofilização. Considerou-se como mais ativa a bentonita que apresentou maior capacidade de troca catiônica - CTC relacionada aos íons sódio (Na+). Foram feitas análises químicas e mineralógicas, de capacidade de troca catiônica, análise microbiológica, FTIR e capacidade de inchamento. Observou-se um incremento de aproximadamente 32% na capacidade de inchamento da bentonita mais ativa após a liofilização.
Proposta de uma cerâmica obtida por meio de geopolimerização de lodo de ETA calcinado
Authors: Santos G. Z. B. , Melo Filho J. A. , Manzato L.
Published: April 2018

Resumo Neste estudo, pelo método de geopolimerização, produziu-se uma cerâmica alternativa utilizando como matéria-prima lodo de estação de tratamento de água (ETA). Primeiramente, esse resíduo foi seco, moído, peneirado e calcinado, sendo caracterizado antes e após tais procedimentos. Com o lodo de ETA devidamente calcinado, a 750 °C por 4 h, produziu-se um geopolímero. Esse material, em estado endurecido, é semelhante a certos tipos de cerâmicas. Os corpos de prova geopoliméricos produzidos foram curados à temperatura ambiente durante 1, 7 e 28 dias. Após a cura, foram caracterizados por meio de difração de raios X, fluorescência de raios X, microscopia eletrônica de varredura e resistência à compressão axial. Curado à temperatura ambiente, o geopolímero atingiu, em média, 20 MPa em apenas 1 dia de idade e 60 MPa aos 28 dias. Constatou-se, portanto, que lodos de ETA podem ser utilizados no desenvolvimento de materiais cerâmicos de elevada resistência mecânica. Com base nos resultados obtidos, sugere-se que o geopolímero produzido possa ser aprimorado e incorporado pelas indústrias de cerâmicas estruturais. O processo adotado, além do baixo consumo energético, mostrou-se uma excelente opção para a destinação de lodos de ETA.
Four decades after Belton: a review of records and evidences on the avifauna of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Franz Ismael , Agne Carlos Eduardo , Bencke Glayson Ariel , Bugoni Leandro , Dias Rafael Antunes
Published: April 2018

ABSTRACT We present a new update of the list of birds of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, based on a thorough review of new records and evidences accumulated from February 2011 to July 2017. This is the fifth update since the first compilation based on a reasonably complete geographic coverage of the state, published by William Belton in 1978, and the second produced by a regional (informal) committee. It is also the first to widely use citizen science contributions available on shared portals and digital databases on the internet. Forty-three taxa were added, resulting in a final list with 704 species, 6.5% more than in the previous assessment in 2010. Two species were replaced due to taxonomic changes. Documentation for inclusions based on unpublished records is indicated or published here. We also updated the documentation of another 20 species previously included in the list. Inclusions represent mainly migrants recorded in the state as vagrants or irregular visitors (22), but also cases of recent range expansion (especially from the north) and previously overlooked resident or migratory taxa. The average rate of additions (over six species per year) was 30% higher than in the previous period and is expected to accelerate. The percentage of accepted species without documented records in the state decreased from 1.8% in 2010 to 0.7% in the current list. We attribute these results to a better spatial and temporal coverage of the state in recent years, mainly due to the increasing contribution of amateurs, who accounted for 60% of the new occurrences. In contrast, the percentage of species documented by museum specimens has decreased steadily over time (currently at 84%). Investment in scientific research and collection of voucher specimens in the state should keep pace with the growing interest birds arouse in society, due to the importance and usefulness of museum specimens.
Combination of topical agents and oxybutynin as a therapeutic modality for patients with both osmidrosis and hyperhidrosis
Authors: Varella Andrea Yasbek Monteiro , Fukuda Juliana Maria , Teivelis Marcelo Passos , Pinheiro Lucas Lembrança , Mendes Cynthia de Almeida , Kauffman Paulo , Campos José Ribas Milanez de , Wolosker Nelson
Published: April 2018

Summary Introduction: The association of osmidrosis and hyperhidrosis often causes emotional and social problems that may impair the patients' quality of life. The purpose of our study was to analyze the therapeutic results of oxybutynin and topical agents in 89 patients with both osmidrosis and hyperhidrosis. Method: We conducted an observational study at two specialized centers of hyperhidrosis between April 2007 and August 2013. Eighty-nine (89) patients with both osmidrosis and hyperhidrosis were treated with oxybutynin and topical agents. Patients were evaluated before treatment and at 3 and 6 weeks after treatment started, by using the Quality of Life Questionnaire and the Sweating Evolution Scale. Results: Before treatment, 98% of the patients presented with poor or very poor quality of life. After six weeks of treatment, 70% stated their quality of life as being slightly better or much better (p<0.001) and nearly 70% of the patients experienced a moderate or great improvement in sweating and malodor. Improvement in osmidrosis was significantly greater when the axillary region was the first most disturbing site of hyperhidrosis. Conclusion: There was a significant improvement in quality of life and a reduction in sweating and malodor after six weeks of treatment with topical agents and oxybutynin in patients with both hyperhidrosis and osmidrosis. Therefore, clinical treatment should be considered before invasive techniques.
Assessing cardiovascular risk in ATM heterozygotes
Authors: Kotchetkoff Elaine Cristina de Almeida , Souza Fabíola Isabel Suano de , Fonseca Fernando Luiz Affonso , Hix Sonia , Ajzen Sergio Aron , Shigueoka David Carlos , Carvalho Beatriz Tavares Costa , Sarni Roseli Oselka Saccardo
Published: April 2018

Summary Objective: To evaluate the carotid intima-media complex (CIMC) thickness and lipid metabolism biomarkers associated with cardiovascular risk (CR) in parents of patients with ataxia-telangiectasia and verify an association with gender. Method: A cross-sectional and controlled study with 29 ATM heterozygotes and 14 healthy controls. Biochemical tests and CIMC thickness measurement were performed. Results: The mean CIMC measurement in heterozygous ATM was 0.72 ± 0.1 mm (minimum: 0.5 mm and maximum: 1.0 mm). Noticed high percentage of amounts above 75 percentile compared to the population referential (16 [76.2%]), without any significant statistical differences between the female and the male gender (11/15 [73.3%] vs. 5/6 [83.3%]; p=0.550). The comparison between heterozygous and controls, stratified by gender, showed that in heterozygous ATMs, women had higher concentrations of HDL-c compared to men, as well as higher values of hs-CRP in relation to the control women. In heterozygous ATMs, stratified by gender, the correlation between HDL-c and hs-CRP was inversely proportional and stronger among women, with a tendency to statistical significance. Conclusion: Heterozygous ATMs did not differ from controls in relation to the biomarkers studied related to CR. However, most of them presented increased CIMC, independent predictor of death, risk for myocardial infarction and stroke, compared to the referential for the same age group. This finding suggests CR in the heterozygous ATM and shows to the need to monitor CIMC thickness and nutritional orientations.