bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oportunidades de qualificação profissional no Brasil: reflexões a partir de um panorama quantitativo
Authors: Mourão Luciana
Published: February 2009

O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um mapeamento nacional das oportunidades de qualificação profissional e das organizações que mais investem nesse tipo de ação. Para tanto foi realizado survey com 1.150 instituições (públicas, privadas e do terceiro setor), em 115 municípios e 23 unidades federadas. A amostra foi probabilística, por conglomerado, com 50 questionários por UF, abrangendo a capital e municípios de médio e de pequeno porte (classificação IBGE/2004). Os resultados mostram que mais de um quarto das organizações não realiza ações de qualificação dos seus funcionários. O Índice de Oportunidades de Qualificação Profissional, criado neste estudo, apresentou correlação positiva com número de empregados, porte da organização e tempo de atuação no mercado. A análise de variância (ANOVA) apontou diferenças significativas entre as regiões brasileiras e entre as organizações públicas e privadas. As organizações de grande porte, com mais de 100 funcionários, mais de 22 anos no mercado e localizadas nas regiões Sul e Sudeste correspondem ao perfil que mais oferece oportunidades de qualificação. Esse panorama chama a atenção para a importância de políticas públicas, que facilitem o processo de capacitação das pessoas que atuam em organizações menores, que oferecem poucas oportunidades de qualificação.
Restaurante Sabor de Casa
Authors: Oliveira Patrícia Whebber Souza de , Leone Nilda Maria de Clodoaldo Pinto Guerra , Souza Tereza de
Published: February 2009

As empresas familiares de pequeno porte apresentam uma série de peculiaridades e desafios, em especial na administração de recursos humanos. Este caso descreve uma situação real de uma empresa, Restaurante Sabor de Casa, que retrata as relações entre fundador e sucessor e suas conseqüências nas políticas e práticas de recursos humanos. O relato é narrado sob o ponto de vista do sucessor, que pensa sobre a situação da empresa e vivencia a dinâmica e complexa etapa de atuar com sua mãe, fundadora da empresa, cuja atuação tem caráter empreendedor, embora tradicional. Mostra as suas reflexões sobre os rumos da empresa, a opinião dos funcionários, com base numa pesquisa realizada em 2006 por estudantes universitários e seus questionamentos sobre a forma de gerenciar a contribuição de seus funcionários, principalmente por reconhecer sua importância para o presente e futuro da empresa. Este caso trata da complexidade da administração de recursos humanos em ambiente organizacional familiar.
Desenvolvimento de habilidades no ensino de ciências e o processo de avaliação: análise da coerência
Authors: Maia Poliana Flávia , Justi Rosária
Published: February 2009

Documentos sobre educação em ciências ressaltam a necessidade de inserção do estudante em seu processo de aprendizagem, defendendo a necessidade do desenvolvimento de habilidades, sobretudo aquelas associadas ao processo de investigação científica, com o objetivo de contribuir para o desenvolvimento de uma visão mais ampla da ciência e um conhecimento de como ela é construída e usada. Considerando a necessidade de avaliar os conhecimentos dos estudantes de forma coerente com esta nova perspectiva de ensino, este trabalho apresenta um panorama de algumas avaliações em massa desenvolvidas em todo o mundo. As questões de ciências de suas últimas versões foram analisadas de forma a subsidiar uma discussão sobre em que medida elas se aproximam ou se afastam das diretrizes contemporâneas propostas para o ensino de ciências. A análise evidenciou a dificuldade de avaliação de algumas habilidades de investigação e a existência de poucas oportunidades para a explicitação de conhecimentos a elas relacionados.
Descrição das noções conceituais sobre os grupos alimentares por professores de 1ª a 4ª série: a necessidade de atualização dos conceitos
Authors: Fernandez Patrícia Martins , Silva Denise Oliveira e
Published: February 2009

Com base na realização de entrevistas individuais com professores de 1ª a 4ª séries em uma amostra de escolas públicas e privadas no Distrito Federal, procurou-se apontar a atualização da classificação dos grupos alimentares segundo exemplos e funções, além da execução de atividades de nutrição e fontes de informação consultadas pelos educadores. Os resultados mostraram associação do consumo dos alimentos energéticos e energéticos extras com uma alimentação inadequada, ao passo que os alimentos construtores e reguladores são identificados como prioritários na alimentação diária. Os livros didáticos destacaram-se como a principal fonte de informação e, em menor destaque, os manuais técnicos de alimentação e profissionais de saúde. Conclui-se que as ações educativas em nutrição precisam ser subsidiadas por professores bem formados e atualizados, além da revisão dos Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais (PCNs) na perspectiva de um ensino interdisciplinar e intersetorial em alimentação na escola.
Mapeamneto conceitual como estratégia para romper fronteiras disciplinares: a isomeria nos sistemas biológicos
Authors: Correia Paulo Rogério Miranda , Donner Jr. John W. A. , Infante-Malachias Maria Elena
Published: February 2009

O mapeamento conceitual foi utilizado como uma ferramenta para verificar as mudanças conceituais de estudantes de Ensino Médio após a realização de atividades didáticas desenvolvidas durante as aulas de Química. O objetivo pedagógico a ser atingido foi romper as fronteiras que segregam o conhecimento científico em disciplinas isoladas. Os estudantes foram intencionalmente provocados a relacionar conceitos de Química e de Biologia, a fim de compreender melhor e explicar as conseqüências biológicas da isomeria. Os mapas conceituais elaborados pelos estudantes, antes e após as atividades propostas, evidenciaram o aparecimento de relações entre conceitos químicos e biológicos, que foram avaliadas qualitativamente. Este trabalho mostra que os mapas conceituais podem ser utilizados como ferramentas para auxiliar o professor na realização de práticas didáticas interdisciplinares na escola, bem como para acompanhar o progresso dos estudantes em direção à interdisciplinaridade.
O currículo de uma escola de formação pedagógica e a dimensão ambiental: dilemas entre teoria e práxis
Authors: Rosa Luciene Gonçalves , Leite Valderi Duarte , Silva Monica Maria Pereira da
Published: February 2009

O artigo trata da análise do currículo de uma Escola de formação Inicial, de nível médio, com relação à dimensão ambiental, considerando a necessidade de inserir a discussão das questões ambientais na formação de educadores como prescrito na Política Nacional de Educação Ambiental, que tem como prioridade gerar reflexão e contribuir para uma melhor compreensão do Ambiente e de suas inter-relações e interdependência. Para esse estudo, foi utilizado a técnica da análise de conteúdos, dentre outras. Os resultados refletem a necessidade de se trabalhar a temática ambiental, com enfoque interdisciplinar e transdisciplinar e de Formação continuada para os profissionais da educação.
Efeitos da corrida em esteira em músculos sóleos de ratos encurtados por imobilização
Authors: Natali Luiz Henrique , Silva Taciane Stein da , Ciena Adriano Policam , Padoin Maristela Jorge , Alves Éder Paulo Belato , Aragão Fernando Amâncio , Bertolini Gladson Ricardo Flor
Published: February 2009

O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar as adaptações de peso e comprimento do músculo sóleo de ratos Wistar machos, além da estimativa do total de sarcômeros em série e comprimento médio dos sarcômeros, quando submetidos a um processo de remobilização em esteira. Foram utilizados 18 ratos (Wistar), divididos em três grupos: GC - músculo sóleo esquerdo (MSE) imobilizado e remobilizado solto; G10 - MSE imobilizado e remobilizado em velocidade de 10m/min; e G12 (n = 6) - MSE imobilizado e remobilizado em velocidade de 12m/min. Os resultados mostraram as seguintes variações, peso muscular: GC -22,35% (p = 0,0089), G10 -12,52% (p = 0,0623), G12 -12,07%, (p = 0,0004); comprimento muscular: GC -5,47% (p = 0,0120), G10 -3,31% (p = 0,2868), G12 0,41% (p = 0,8987); estimativa de sarcômeros em série: GC -15,42% (p = 0,0047), G10 -10,87% (p = 0,0193), G12 -4,97 (p = 0,2409); comprimento de sarcômeros GC 11,16% (p = 0,0142), G10 9,31% (p = 0,1270), G12 5,58% (p = 0,1327). Conclui-se que G12 obteve maior eficácia após o período de imobilização, pois apresentou maior semelhança com o membro não imobilizado.
Validação das equações metabólicas para caminhada e corrida propostas pelo American College of Sports Medicine em homens entre 20 e 30 anos de idade
Authors: Filardo Ronaldo Domingues , Silva Rosane C. Rosendo da , Petroski Edio Luiz
Published: February 2009

O American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) sugere equações para estimativa do gasto metabólico da caminhada e da corrida, concebidas a partir de pressupostos: 1) que o indivíduo esteja executando uma atividade em estado de equilíbrio e 2) que o consumo de oxigênio (VO2) tem relação linear com a intensidade do trabalho. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a validade concorrente dessas equações metabólicas em homens regularmente ativos entre 20 e 30 anos de idade, tendo como medida critério a espirometria (TEEM-100, AeroSport). Participaram deste estudo 36 homens jovens e ativos. No primeiro dia, os voluntários executaram um teste máximo de exercício na esteira (ATL 10200, Inbrasport). Os indivíduos completaram um trabalho padronizado de 30 minutos com seis diferentes estágios de caminhada e corrida (80,4; 120,6 e 160,8m.min-1) com (5%) e sem inclinação, 48 a 96h após o teste máximo. Além da estatística descritiva, utilizaram-se a correlação linear de Pearson, o coeficiente de determinação, a ANOVA com um fator e o teste t pareado, com o nível de significância estabelecido em 0,05. Todos os procedimentos foram realizados no pacote estatístico SPSS. Os resultados apontaram para a superestimação do VO2 em ambas as atividades (p < 0,05), sobretudo na corrida, com exceção para 80,4 e 120,6m.min-1, sem inclinação (diferença média de -30 a 20% para caminhada e de 3,2 a 12% para corrida). Os valores de erro padrão de estimativa (EPE) variaram entre 1,56 e 3,15ml O2.kg-1.min-1 e em torno de 3,5ml O2.kg-1.min-1, para caminhada e corrida, respectivamente. A correlação foi maior que 0,7 para todos os estágios. Contudo, seguindo os critérios estabelecidos por Lohman (1992), as equações não foram validadas. Dessa forma, em homens ativos, o EPE deverá ser considerado, pois as equações metabólicas propostas pelo ACSM superestimam os valores de VO2.
Efeitos da suplementação de fibras solúveis sobre as células do sistema imune após exercício exaustivo em ratos treinados
Authors: Donatto Felipe F. , Prestes Jonato , Ferreira Clílton K.O. , Dias Rodrigo , Frollini Anelena B. , Leite Gerson S. , Urtado Christiano B. , Verlengia Rozangela , Palanch Adriane C. , Perez Sérgio E.A. , Cavaglieri Cláudia R.
Published: February 2009

A intensidade, volume, modalidade de exercício, assim como o nível de aptidão e fatores nutricionais podem alterar a reposta imunológica. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da suplementação crônica de farelo de aveia (fonte de fibras solúveis) sobre as células do sistema imunológico em ratos treinados, frente a um teste de exaustão. Foram utilizados ratos Wistar, ± dois meses, peso ± 200g, divididos em três grupos (n = 9, cada um): 1) controle sedentário (C); 2) treinado oito semanas submetido ao teste de exaustão (EX); e 3) treinado oito semanas submetido ao teste de exaustão com suplementação de 30% de farelo de aveia (EXA). O treinamento consistiu de 60 minutos de natação diários, cinco dias por semana durante oito semanas. As análises realizadas foram: contagem total de leucócitos, linfócitos dos linfonodos mesentéricos, macrófagos peritoneais e capacidade fagocitária de macrófagos peritoneais. Aplicou-se o teste estatístico ANOVA two way, seguido do post hoc de Tukey com p < 0,05. O grupo EX apresentou leucocitose quando comparado com o controle, o que não ocorreu no grupo EXA, porém, na comparação entre os grupos exercitados EXA, mostrou menor leucocitose em relação a EX. Não houve alteração significativa nos linfócitos teciduais em nenhum dos grupos exercitados. Tanto o número de macrófagos peritoneais como a capacidade fagocitária desta célula foram maiores nos grupos exercitados. Porém, no grupo suplementado a capacidade fagocitária foi maior em relação ao grupo exaustão sem farelo de aveia. A suplementação de fibras solúveis demonstrou resultados benéficos com relação às alterações imunológicas induzidas pelo exercício extenuante, além de aumentar a capacidade fagocitária de macrófagos peritoniais em ratos treinados durante oito semanas submetidos ao teste de exaustão.
Consumo de suplementos por jovens freqüentadores de academias de ginástica em São Paulo
Authors: Hirschbruch Marcia Daskal , Fisberg Mauro , Mochizuki Luis
Published: February 2009

A preocupação com a aparência e a estética pode levar ao consumo indiscriminado de suplementos nas academias. Os fatores relacionados ao consumo de suplementos em 201 jovens entre 15 e 25 anos freqüentadores de academias de ginástica da cidade de São Paulo foram investigados através da aplicação de formulário próprio. O uso de suplementos é relatado por 61,2% (n = 123) da amostra. Os homens usam mais suplementos que as mulheres (p < 0,001) e os adolescentes tendem a utilizar mais que os adultos jovens (p = 0,07). Os suplementos mais utilizados são bebidas esportiva (12%), hipercalóricos (12%), aminoácidos (10%), proteínas (10%) e creatina (8%), basicamente por auto-prescrição (42,8%) e pela indicação de treinadores (27,5%). O consumo de suplementos é significativamente maior entre aqueles que se exercitam há mais tempo; freqüentam a academia há mais tempo; e ficam na academia mais horas/semana. Ter amigos usuários (p = 0,03) e/ou um usuário em casa (p = 0,01) influencia no consumo de suplementos. O consumo de suplementos é uma prática que faz parte da realidade das academias de ginástica e o ambiente é favorecedor do uso desses produtos.
Treino de corrida não interfere no desempenho de força de membros superiores
Authors: Raddi Leandro Luís Oliveira , Gomes Rodrigo Vitasovic , Charro Mário Augusto , Bacurau Reury Frank Pereira , Aoki Marcelo Saldanha
Published: February 2009

OBJETIVO: O presente estudo avaliou o efeito do exercício de endurance (corrida) sobre o subseqüente desempenho de força de músculos dos membros superiores e do tronco. METODOLOGIA: A amostra foi composta por 13 universitárias, saudáveis e fisicamente ativas. A primeira fase do experimento consistiu na realização de um teste de corrida, simulando uma sessão de treino, com duração de 45 minutos a 70% da FC MAX. Imediatamente após a corrida, foram aplicados testes de força (dinamometria - preensão palmar, teste de 1-RM e teste de repetições máximas a 70%-1RM no supino). A glicemia foi mensurada no início do experimento e imediatamente antes dos testes de força. RESULTADOS: Não foi observada diferença significativa no desempenho dos testes de força após o treino de corrida (dinamometria, 1-RM e REPMAX - sem a prévia execução do treino de corrida - 29,9 ± 3,8 kgf; 34,4 ± 3,1 kg; 1ºset: 12,5 ± 3,3 reps e 2ºset: 11,7 ± 2,7 reps vs. com a prévia execução do treino de corrida - 29,2 ± 3,1 kgf; 33,9 ± 2,5 kg; 1ºset: 13,2 ± 2,1 reps e 2ºset: 12,2 ± 2,8 reps). Com relação à glicemia, não foi detectada alteração significativa durante o experimento. CONCLUSÃO: A execução do treino de corrida não afetou o subseqüente desempenho de força dos membros superiores e do tronco. Esse dado sugere que a interferência, freqüentemente, observada no exercício concorrente, é dependente do grupo muscular treinado. Possivelmente, o efeito adverso induzido pelo treino concorrente, realizado, exclusivamente, com membros inferiores, é decorrente da fadiga residual instalada nos músculos recrutados na atividade anterior. É importante ressaltar que a atividade de endurance não promoveu alteração na concentração plasmática de glicose. A manutenção da glicemia associada à ausência de interferência sobre o desempenho dos testes de força reforça, mais ainda, a hipótese de que o efeito adverso do treinamento concorrente é, provavelmente, causado por alterações periféricas músculo-específicas.
Characterization of small-scale fisheries in the Camamu-Almada basin, southeast state of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Souza TCM. , Petrere-Jr M.
Published: February 2009

In the Camamu-Almada basin, marine fishery is exclusively small-scale, with several structural deficiencies such as boats with low or absent navigational technology, lack of credit and low income. Local fishers complain that shrimp and lobster trawling fishing is the main factor responsible for low stock abundance, but they still persist in these activities as these two species command the highest market prices. So they feel that the target species are already over-fished. We suggest that proper management action, alternative ways of income generation and the payment of job insurance would help to mitigate the problem.
Seasonality of macroalgal communities in a subtropical drainage basin in Paraná state, southern Brazil
Authors: Branco CCZ. , Krupek RA. , Peres CK.
Published: February 2009

Seasonal dynamics of macroalgal communities was analyzed monthly by samplings in three stream segments of the Pedras River Basin, mid-south region of Paraná State, southern Brazil, from April 2004 to March 2005. The seasonal fluctuations in macroalgal species richness and abundance were correlated with selected environmental variables. In general, the seasonal distribution patterns of these communities were distinct from those reported from other tropical and temperate regions, with higher macroalgal richness and abundance observed from late spring to late fall. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the stream variable most closely related with the temporal distribution pattern observed was temperature, which had a very similar seasonal pattern to the biological parameters. On the other hand, the floristic composition was quite diverse in the streams sampled. Among the 25 taxa identified, only two were common to the three streams whereas 15 were restricted to a single sampling site. These data indicate that, although temperature seems to be an effective relationship with global temporal pattern, particular characteristics of each stream can strongly influence the seasonal tendencies in local scale. The results of Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) and Cluster Analysis corroborated this observation.
Diurnal and seasonal carbon balance of four tropical tree species differing in successional status
Authors: Souza GM. , Ribeiro RV. , Sato AM. , Oliveira MS.
Published: February 2009

This study addressed some questions about how a suitable leaf carbon balance can be attained for different functional groups of tropical tree species under contrasting forest light environments. The study was carried out in a fragment of semi-deciduous seasonal forest in Narandiba county, São Paulo Estate, Brazil. 10-month-old seedlings of four tropical tree species, Bauhinia forficata Link (Caesalpinioideae) and Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. (Sterculiaceae) as light-demanding pioneer species, and Hymenaea courbaril L. (Caesalpinioideae) and Esenbeckia leiocarpa Engl. (Rutaceae) as late successional species, were grown under gap and understorey conditions. Diurnal courses of net photosynthesis (Pn) and transpiration were recorded with an open system portable infrared gas analyzer in two different seasons. Dark respiration and photorespiration were also evaluated in the same leaves used for Pn measurements after dark adaptation. Our results showed that diurnal-integrated dark respiration (Rdi) of late successional species were similar to pioneer species. On the other hand, photorespiration rates were often higher in pioneer than in late successional species in the gap. However, the relative contribution of these parameters to leaf carbon balance was similar in all species in both environmental conditions. Considering diurnal-integrated values, gross photosynthesis (Pgi) was dramatically higher in gap than in understorey, regardless of species. In both evaluated months, there were no differences among species of different functional groups under shade conditions. The same was observed in May (dry season) under gap conditions. In such light environment, pioneers were distinguished from late successional species in November (wet season), showing that ecophysiological performance can have a straightforward relation to seasonality.
Attachment of the peritrich epibiont Zoothamnium intermedium Precht, 1935 (Ciliophora, Peritrichia) to artificial substrates in a natural environment
Authors: Utz LRP.
Published: February 2009

Peritrich ciliates are commonly found as epibionts, colonizing living organisms, or attached to non-living substrates in freshwater, estuarine and marine environments. Several species of peritrich epibionts are obligate, which means that they are able to only colonize other organisms, while others are facultative attaching to living or non-living substrates. The peritrich Zoothamnium intermedium is commonly found as epibiont on the copepod species Acartia tonsa and Eurytemora affinis in Chesapeake Bay, USA. Previous studies demonstrated that Z. intermedium is not able to attach to non-living substrates in the laboratory; with free-swimming stages (telotrochs) dying when living substrates are not available for colonization. The present study investigated the ability of Z. intermdium to colonize artificial substrates in the field. Observations were carried out while the peritrich ciliate was colonizing copepods in Rhode River, a tributary of Chesapeake Bay. Results demonstrated that four species of Zoothamnium were recovered from artificial substrates, but none of them was Z. intermedium. At the same time, Z. intermedium was colonizing adults and copepodites of E. affinis and A. tonsa during the whole study period. These results, in addition to laboratory observations, suggest that Z. intermedium is an obligate epibiont.
Distribution, feeding behavior and control strategies of the exotic land snail Achatina fulica (Gastropoda: Pulmonata) in the northeast of Brazil
Authors: Albuquerque FS. , Peso-Aguiar MC. , Assunção-Albuquerque MJT.
Published: February 2009

The goal of this study was to document the distribution and establishment A. fulica such as their feeding preference and behavior in situ. The study was carried out at the city of Lauro de Freitas, Bahia state, Brazil, between November 2001 and November 2002. We used catch per unit effort methods to determine abundance, distribution, habitat choice and food preferences. The abundance and distribution of A. fulica was most representative in urban area, mainly near to the coastline. Lots and house gardens were the most preferred sites during active hours. The results indicated that A. fulica started their activity at the end of the evening and stopped in mid-morning. Their preferred food were vascular plants such as Hibiscus syriacus, Ricinus communis, Carica papaya, Galinsonga coccinea, Lippia alba, Ixora coccinea, Musa parasidisiaca, Mentha spicata and Cymbopogon citrates. Our results indicate that A. fulica are well adapted and established in this city and modified environments facilitate their establishment and dispersion. However, human perturbation, such as clearance of lots could be limiting for the persistence of A. fulica populations.
Large scale laboratory cultures of Ankistrodesmus gracilis (Reisch) Korsikov (Chlorophyta) and Diaphanosoma biergei Korinek, 1981 (Cladocera)
Authors: Sipaúba-Tavares LH. , Pereira AML.
Published: February 2009

Large-scale lab culture of Ankistrodesmus gracilis and Diaphanososma birgei were evaluated by studying the biology and biochemical composition of the species and production costs. Ankistrodesmus gracilis presented exponential growth until the 6th day, with approximately 144 x 10(4) cells.mL-1, followed by a sharp decrease to 90 x 10(4) cells.mL-1 (8th day). Algae cells tended to increase again from the 11th day and reached a maximum of 135 x 10(4) cells.mL-1 on the 17th day. D. birgei culture showed exponential growth until the 9th day with 140 x 10² individuals.L-1, and increased again as from the 12th day. Algae A. gracilis and zooplankton D. birgei contain 47 to 70% dry weight protein and over 5% dry weight carbohydrates. The most expensive items in the context of variable costs were labor and electricity. Data suggested that temperature, nutrients, light availability and culture management were determining factors on productivity. Results indicate that NPK (20-5-20) may be used directly as a good alternative for mass cultivation when low costs are taken into account, promoting adequate growth and nutritional value for cultured A. gracilis and D. birgei.
Infection rates of pentastomids on lizards in urban habitats in the Brazilian northeast
Authors: Almeida WO. , Santana GG. , Vieira WLS. , Wanderley IC.
Published: February 2009

The rates of pentastomid infections in the syntopic lizards Hemidactylus mabouia and Tropidurus hispidus inhabiting buildings at the Federal University of Paraiba, in João Pessoa, NE Brazil were examined. A total of 30 specimens of Hemidactylus mabouia and 55 specimens of Tropidurus hispidus were examined. The animals were sacrificed by freezing and then fixed and conserved in 70% alcohol. Analyses of the respiratory tract of Hemidactylus mabouia demonstrated that these lizards were infected by Raillietiella frenatus at a rate of 20% (6/30) with an average infection intensity of 1.33 ± 0.21, 1-2. None of the specimens of T. hispidus analyzed were infected. Hemidactylus mabouia and R. frenatus are of African origin and it is possible that there are specific relationships, or preferences, between these two species.
Embryonic development of Girardia tigrina (Girard, 1850) (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Paludicola)
Authors: Vara DC. , Leal-Zanchet AM. , Lizardo-Daudt HM.
Published: February 2009

The embryonic development of freshwater triclads is mainly known from studies of species of Dendrocoelum, Planaria, Polycelis, and, more recently, Schmidtea. The present study characterizes the development of Girardia tigrina (Girard, 1850) by means of optical microcopy using glycol methacrylate semi-thin sections. 94 cocoons were collected in the period from laying to hatching, with intervals of up to twenty-four hours. The sequence of morphological changes occurring in the embryo permitted the identification of nine embryonic stages. At the time of cocoon laying, numerous embryos were dispersed among many yolk cells, with a rigid capsule covering the entire cocoon. In the first stage (approx. up to 6 hours after cocoon laying), yolk cells and embryonic cells showed random distribution. Stage II (between 12 and 24 hours after cocoon laying) is characterized by aggregates of blastomeres, which later aggregate forming an enteroblastula. Approximately 2 days after cocoon laying (stage III), formation of the embryonic epidermis and embryonic digestive system took place, the latter degenerating during the subsequent stage. Stage V (until the fourth day) is characterized by the formation of the definitive epidermis. Between 4 and 6 days after laying, organogenesis of the definitive inner organs starts (stage VI). Approximately 14 days after laying (stage IX), formation of the nervous system is completed. At this stage, the embryo shows similar characteristics to those of newly hatched juveniles. The hatching of Girardia tigrina occurs in the period between twelve to twenty-two days after cocoon laying.
Sexual size dimorphism in Myotis nigricans (Schinz, 1821) (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) from south Brazil
Authors: Bornholdt R. , Oliveira LR. , Fabián ME.
Published: February 2009

Among Vespertilionidae species, sexual size dimorphism is very well documented, in which females are larger than males. The differences are mainly in body weight, skull measurements and forearm length. Studies have discussed some hypothesis for this phenomenon. However, very little information is known about sexual size dimorphism in Myotis nigricans (Schinz, 1821) in Brazil. In this sense, the goal of this paper is to present a study of this phenomenon in the species. For this, we present a quantitative analysis of sexual size dimorphism assessed by traditional morphometrics. Ten skull measurements in addition to the forearm length of adult specimens were taken. Results of traditional morphometrics revealed sexual size dimorphism in five skull measurements and in the forearm length. Females were larger than males. These differences can be attributed to natural selection on large female size for increase fecundity. Bat females of the Vespertilionidae family are usually larger than males in order to perform parental care appropriately and to provide a successful reproductive process.
Deforestation and threats to the biodiversity of Amazonia
Authors: Vieira ICG. , Toledo PM. , Silva JMC. , Higuchi H.
Published: February 2009

This is a review of the main factors currently perceived as threats to the biodiversity of Amazonia. Deforestation and the expansion of the agricultural frontier go hand in hand within the context of occupation and land use in the region, followed by a hasty process of industrialization since the 1950s and, more recently, by a nation-wide attempt to adapt Brazil to economic globalization. Intensive agriculture and cattle-raising, lack of territorial planning, the monoculture of certain crops often promoted by official agencies, and the introduction of exotic species by cultivation are some of the factors affecting Amazonian biodiversity. There are still large gaps in knowledge that need to be dealt with for a better understanding of the local ecosystems so as to allow their preservation, but such investigation is subjected to manifold hindrances by misinformation, disinformation and sheer ignorance from the legal authorities and influential media. Data available for select groups of organisms indicate that the magnitude of the loss and waste of natural resources associated with deforestation is staggering, with estimated numbers of lost birds and primates being over ten times that of such animals illegally commercialized around the world in one year. The challenges to be met for an eventual reversal of this situation demand more systematic and concerted studies, the consolidation of new and existing research groups, and a call for a halt to activities depleting the Amazonian rainforest.
Challenging issues of urban biodiversity related to ecohydrology
Authors: Mendiondo EM.
Published: February 2009

This paper aims to outline challenging issues of urban biodiversity in order to address yardsticks related to ecohydrology, and with a complementary approach to eutrophication impacts. The vision of environmental services, urbanization's consequences and management aspects of water governance are also depicted. Factors of river restoration, environmental tradeoffs and socio-cultural constrains are envisaged through concept questions towards emerging aspects that figure out methodological guides, strategic challenges for stakeholders and inter-disciplinary opportunities. Examples from case studies on restoration and management, from experiences and lessons learned, are enclosed, with brief discussions and literature citation.
Contribution of conservation genetics in assessing neotropical freshwater fish biodiversity
Authors: Piorski NM. , Sanches A. , Carvalho-Costa LF. , Hatanaka T. , Carrillo-Avila M. , Freitas PD. , Galetti Jr. PM.
Published: February 2009

Human activities have a considerable impact on hydrographic systems and fish fauna. The present review on conservation genetics of neotropical freshwater fish reveals that DNA analyses have been promoting increased knowledge on the genetic structure of fish species and their response to environmental changes. This knowledge is fundamental to the management of wild fish populations and the establishment of Evolutionary Significant Units capable of conserving genetic integrity. While population structuring can occur even in long-distance migratory fish, isolated populations can show reduced genetic variation and be at greater risk of extinction. Phylogeography and phylogeny have been powerful tools in understanding the evolution of fish populations, species and communities in distinct neotropic environments. Captive fish can be used to introduce new individuals and genes into the wild and their benefits and disadvantages can be monitored through genetic analysis. Understanding how fish biodiversity in neotropical freshwaters is generated and maintained is highly important, as these habitats are transformed by human development and fish communities are increasingly exploited as food sources to sustain a growing human population.
First occurrence of Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857) in the Rio Tietê watershed (São Paulo State, Brazil)
Authors: Pareschi DC. , Matsumura-Tundisi T. , Medeiros GR. , Luzia AP. , Tundisi JG.
Published: February 2009

This paper describes the recent expansion of the geographical distribution of Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857) in the Tietê River watershed, São Paulo State, Brazil. Estimations related to the velocity of invasion and its causes are presented. Ecological implications related to biodiversity and possible changes in the food chain are discussed.
Higiene bucal com clorexidina na prevenção de pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica
Authors: Beraldo Carolina Contador , Andrade Denise de
Published: February 2009

A pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica (PAVM) é uma infecção freqüente nas unidades de terapia intensiva (UTI), e anti-sépticos bucais são utilizados preventivamente. Revisamos metanálises e ensaios clínicos randomizados indexados no Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System e Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature sobre o uso tópico da clorexidina na prevenção da PAVM. Oito publicações foram avaliadas. Em sete (87,5%), a clorexidina diminuiu a colonização da orofaringe, e em quatro (50%) houve redução de PAVM. A clorexidina parece diminuir a colonização, podendo reduzir a incidência da PAVM.
Potential Treatment Options After First-Line Chemotherapy for Advanced NSCLC: Maintenance Treatment or Early Second-Line?
Authors: Gridelli Cesare , Maione Paolo , Rossi Antonio , Ferrara Marianna Luciana , Bareschino Maria Anna , Schettino Clorinda , Sacco Paola Claudia , Ciardiello Fortunato
Published: February 2009

Although substantial progress has been made in the therapeutic options currently available for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the overall survival profile remains poor for most patients. One of the strategies currently under investigation with the aim of prolonging survival in NSCLC patients is maintenance treatment with either a chemotherapeutic agent or a molecularly targeted agent after first-line chemotherapy. Moreover, this can consist of drugs included in the induction regimen or other noncrossresistant agents. With the currently available data, maintenance treatment with a different noncrossresistant agent (i.e., an early second-line treatment) is perhaps the most promising strategy. The drug chosen for the early second-line treatment should be a well-tolerated agent, considering that patients have just completed a particularly toxic platinum-based chemotherapy. Extending treatment with targeted agents rather than chemotherapy can provide longer progression-free and overall survival times without increasing toxicity. However, at the moment, only progression-free survival has been shown to be consistently superior with maintenance approaches; the evaluation of survival benefits is warranted before defining this strategy as a possible treatment option. Further studies are warranted to establish the role of maintenance chemotherapy in patients with advanced NSCLC.
Ecology of extreme faunal turnover of tropical American scallops
Authors: Smith J. Travis , Jackson Jeremy B. C.
Published: February 2009

The marine faunas of tropical America underwent substantial evolutionary turnover in the past 3 to 4 million years in response to changing environmental conditions associated with the rise of the Isthmus of Panama, but the ecological signature of changes within major clades is still poorly understood. Here we analyze the paleoecology of faunal turnover within the family Pectinidae (scallops) over the past 12 Myr. The fossil record for the southwest Caribbean (SWC) is remarkably complete over this interval. Diversity increased from a low of 12 species ca. 10–9 Ma to a maximum of 38 species between 4 and 3 Ma and then declined to 22 species today. In contrast, there are large gaps in the record from the tropical eastern Pacific (TEP) and diversity remained low throughout the past 10 Myr. Both origination and extinction rates in the SWC peaked between 4 and 3 Ma, and remained high until 2–1 Ma, resulting in a 95% species level turnover between 3.5 and 2 Ma. The TEP record was too incomplete for meaningful estimates of origination and extinction rates. All living species within the SWC originated within the last 4 Myr, as evidenced by a sudden jump in Lyellian percentages per faunule from nearly zero up to 100% during this same interval. However, faunules with Lyellian percentages near zero occurred until 1.8 Ma, so that geographic distributions were extraordinarily heterogeneous until final extinction occurred. There were also striking differences in comparative diversity and abundance among major ecological groups of scallops. Free-swimming scallops constituted the most diverse guild throughout most of the last 10 Myr in the SWC, and were always moderately to very abundant. Leptopecten and Argopecten were also highly diverse throughout the late Miocene and early Pliocene, but declined to very few species thereafter. In contrast, byssally attaching scallops gradually increased in both diversity and abundance since their first appearance in our samples from 8–9 Ma and are the most diverse group today. Evolutionary turnover of scallops in the SWC was correlated with strong ecological reorganization of benthic communities that occurred in response to declining productivity and increased development of corals reefs.
The double mass extinction revisited: reassessing the severity, selectivity, and causes of the end-Guadalupian biotic crisis (Late Permian)
Authors: Clapham Matthew E. , Shen Shuzhong , Bottjer David J.
Published: February 2009

The end-Guadalupian extinction, at the end of the Middle Permian, is thought to have been one of the largest biotic crises in the Phanerozoic. Previous estimates suggest that the crisis eliminated 58% of marine invertebrate genera during the Capitanian stage and that its selectivity helped the Modern evolutionary fauna become more diverse than the Paleozoic fauna before the end-Permian mass extinction. However, a new sampling-standardized analysis of Permian diversity trends, based on 53731 marine invertebrate fossil occurrences from 9790 collections, indicates that the end-Guadalupian “extinction” was actually a prolonged but gradual decrease in diversity from the Wordian to the end of the Permian. There was no peak in extinction rates; reduced genus richness exhibited by all studied invertebrate groups and ecological guilds, and in different latitudinal belts, was instead driven by a sharp decrease in origination rates during the Capitanian and Wuchiapingian. The global diversity decrease was exacerbated by changes in beta diversity, most notably a reduction in provinciality due to the loss of marine habitat area and a pronounced decrease in geographic disparity over small distances. Disparity over moderate to large distances was unchanged, suggesting that small-scale beta diversity changes may have resulted from compression of bathymetric ranges and homogenization of onshore-offshore faunal gradients stemming from the spread of deep-water anoxia around the Guadalupian/Lopingian boundary. Although tropical invertebrate genera were no more likely than extratropical ones to become extinct, the marked reduction in origination rates during the Capitanian and Wuchiapingian is consistent with the effects of global cooling (the Kamura Event), but may also be consistent with other environmental stresses such as anoxia. However, a gradual reduction in diversity, rather than a sharp end-Guadalupian extinction, precludes the need to invoke drastic extinction mechanisms and indicates that taxonomic loss at the end of the Paleozoic was concentrated in the traditional end-Permian (end-Changhsingian) extinction, which eliminated 78% of all marine invertebrate genera.
Resistance to chemotherapy and hormone therapy in endometrial cancer
Authors: Chaudhry Parvesh , Asselin Eric
Published: February 2009

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological malignancy in developed countries and represents the eighth leading cause of cancer related death in women. The growing incidence of endometrial cancer leads scientists and oncologists to identify effective preventive measures and also molecular markers for diagnosis and prognosis. Chemotherapy and hormone therapy is the mainstay treatment option for advanced and recurrent endometrial cancer and response to therapy is one of the most important factor which favors prognosis and overall survival. In recent years, there have been major advances in the treatment of patients with endometrial cancer. Despite advances made in the treatment of this cancer, the overall survival of patients has not significantly improved because considerable number of patients harbor tumor refractory to these therapies and the majority of the initially responsive tumors become refractory to treatments. Therefore, determination of sensitivity/resistance is becoming increasingly important for individualization of endometrial cancer therapy. The aim of this review is to present the existing knowledge about the molecular markers that could play a crucial role in determining resistance to chemo- and hormone therapy. Extensive literature search for the cell signaling pathways and factors responsible for chemoresistance have been performed and reviewed. Several recent studies suggest that deregulations in the apoptotic pathways (such as p53, Fas/FasL, Bcl-2 family proteins, inhibitor of apoptosis proteins), survival pathways (PI3K/AKT, MAPK), hormone receptor signaling pathways (progesterone receptor), Cyclooxygenase-2 and Her-2 are considered as key factors involved in the onset and maintenance of therapeutic resistance, suggesting that resistance is a multi-factorial phenomenon.
A Single-Case fMRI Study EMDR Treatment of a Patient With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Richardson Paul , Williams Steve R. , Hepenstall Sam , Gregory Lloyd , McKie Shane , Corrigan Frank
Published: February 2009

This study assessed the effects of a session of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) with auditory alternating bilateral stimulation (ABS) using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of brain activations. A case study was conducted with a female participant who was suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder following a severe assault. The fMRI scan began with safe-place imagery, for purposes of comparison, and then attention to the trauma memory without ABS. After this, ABS was provided as she began using EMDR procedures to process the traumatic memory. At postsession, the traumatic memory showed robust and significant changes on self-report measures. The initiation of the EMDR protocol with provision of ABS was associated with a marked change in brain activation within the prefrontal cortex demonstrating a ventromedial shift. The authors argue that the structure of the EMDR protocol encourages such a ventromedial activation, which is then intensified by ABS to overcome the block to information processing that has been preventing natural healing from occurring spontaneously.
Training, Treatment Access, and Research on Trauma Intervention in the Armed Services
Authors: Russell Mark C. , Friedberg Fred
Published: February 2009

Since 2001, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have caused considerable strain on military medicine to effectively manage the growing mental health demand from deployed personnel. This article examines the ability of the U.S. Department of Defense to provide quality mental health services based on the availability of (a) clinical training, (b) mental health interventions, and (c) funded research of treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder. While notable progress has been made in cognitive-behavioral treatment access and research, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is far less available—perhaps attributable to ongoing controversy over the technique. We suggest that underserved veterans would benefit from increased availability of evidence-based behavioral treatments, perhaps through continuation of a recent regional training program.
Improving the selectivity of non-polar alkanes, alkenes, and aromatic hydrocarbon compounds by the application of acetonitrile as a Cl reagent
Authors: Alwedian Fadel , Abu-Shandi Khalid
Published: February 2009

The selective enhancement of membrane introduction mass spectrometry for non-polar alkanes, alkenes, and aromatic hydrocarbon compounds by the application of acetonitrile as a chemical ionization reagent was investigated. Acetonitrile Cl is able to produce specific fragment ions for many of the compounds test and this can be used to identify and quantify the parent neutrals. This method provided relatively high detection limits of the test compounds. This method could potentially be useful for analytical applications such as the detection of non-polar hydrocarbons for environmental studies if CH3CN Cl/MIMS is coupled with a preconcentration method.
Non-extensive equilibration in relativistic matter
Authors: Bíró Tamás , Purcsel Gábor
Published: February 2009

We present a view of the non-extensive thermodynamics based on general composition rules. A formal logarithm maps these rules to the addition, which can be used to generate stationary distributions by standard techniques. We review the most commonly used rules and as an application we discuss the Tsallis-Pareto distribution of transverse momenta of energetic hadrons, which emerge from relativistic heavy-ion collisions.
Religious Change Among Yemeni Women
Authors: Pandya Sophia
Published: February 2009

While I was interviewing young, educated, employed Yemeni women regarding their religious practices, many conveyed to me that their favorite preacher was the charismatic Egyptian televangelist ‘Amr Khaled, whose show is broadcast in Sanaa and in many parts of the Middle East on a weekly basis. They also spoke of reluctance to take part in many of their mother’s communal religious practices and events. In this study I analyze the reasons for this generational change, and examine the impact of modernity and new forms of media, such as televangelism, on educated Yemeni women’s religious practices. Factors such as a newfound access to modern education, lack of time, fatigue with politics, and ‘Amr Khaled’s unique ability to reconcile tensions between tradition and modernity have contributed to his popularity among this group of Yemeni women.
Violence Against Women in Qatari Society
Authors: Al-Ghanim Kaltham Ali
Published: February 2009

This study is the first of its kind using field and documentary research sources. While official sources on the subject have proven the limitations of such data, the study uses a field survey of a sample of 2,787 women students at Qatar University representing 4.4% of Qatari females aged 15–64 and 0.4% of non-Qatari females in the same age group. The study provides important indices and conclusions, e.g., a substantial percentage of the participants have experienced violence, with most violence occurring within the family, from family males such as brothers, fathers, or husbands. It also shows that some women were subjected to violence during childhood and adolescence. The study points to the lack of legislation and official organizations to protect women from violence and suggests ways and means of dealing with the problem in Qatari society.