bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scarabaeinae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) of a rupestrian field at Cafuringa, Distrito Federal, Brazil: commented list of species
Authors: Nunes Rafael Vieira , Frizzas Marina Regina , Vaz-de-Mello Fernando Zagury
Published: February 2013

Our aim was to characterize the Scarabaeinae fauna from a rupestrian field formation at APA de Cafuringa, DF, Brazil. We made seven samples between 2007 and 2009 using baited pitfall traps. We collected 602 individuals belonging to 27 species and 13 genera, of which 17 were identified at species level. The majority of species caught has wide geographical distribution in Brazil and South America and do not seem to be specialized in 'campo rupestre' formation. Two species, Canthidium marseuli and Canthon lamproderes have restricted geographical distribution, being present in the central Brazilian highlands. C. marseuli and C. lamproderes are probably restricted to rupestrian fields since they have been registered only for this formation in Brazil, which indicates that these species need attention in relation to the conservation of theirs populations and habitats.
Occurrence of thrushes in an urban fragment of Araucaria forest in southern Brazil
Authors: Vogel Huilquer Francisco , Zawadzki Cláudio Henrique , Metri Rafael
Published: February 2013

Seasonal segregation among syntopic species can be viewed as one of the available strategies for coexistence, reducing competitive process. The present work therefore aimed to interpret the assemblage structures comprising birds of the genus Turdus (Turdidae), through the analysis of seasonal variation in the species occurrence in a forest remnant located in the southcenter State of Paraná. Mist-netting was employed twice a month for capturing birds, totalling an annual effort of 7488 h.m². The frequency of occurrence, constancy and class of species dominance was determined, together with the parameters generally used in studies of ecological communities (richness, abundance, diversity and evenness). A total of 162 individuals were captured, representing five species. Turdus rufiventris was the most constant and frequent species. Turdus amaurochalinus and Turdus leucomelas were captured with variable constancies and frequencies along the seasons. Turdus amaurochalinus was also very common and may present an overlapping process between migrant and non-migrant individuals during spring. Turdus albicolis was considered accessory, whereas Turdus subalaris was only registered during the reproductive period. Hence, it was possible to observe that seasonal modifications occurred both in the frequency of occurrence and in the constancy and dominance of species. These results indicated the possibility of a lower use of the environment during the breeding season, as well as the presence of a higher number of individuals in summer and increased abundance of Turdus rufiventris and T. leucomelas during autumn and winter.
Opportunistic predation of fish by anomuran crabs (Crustacea, Anomura, Aeglidae) in rivers of southern Brazil
Authors: Savaris Marcoandre , Lampert Silvana , Trevisan André , Masunari Setuko
Published: February 2013

The opportunistic predation on the fishes Astyanax fasciatus and Crenicichla sp. entangled in gill net by the aeglid crabs Aegla grisella and Aegla singularis was observed in rivers of southern Brazil. These events occurred in two rivers located at the National Forest of Passo Fundo, in Mato Castelhano municipality, Rio Grande do Sul State and Tangará municipality, Santa Catarina State. In both places the fish showed similar wound pattern, with eyes and fins being consumed first. However, predation of the whole body was also recorded, probably due to the high number of aeglid crabs feeding on the same individual. This record intended to contribute for understanding the natural diet of these crabs in freshwater environments.
Determinação de propriedades petrofísicas de rochas via simulação: um caminho interdisciplinar
Authors: Cunha A.R. , Moreira A.C. , Kronbauer D.P. , Mantovani I.F. , Fernandes C.P.
Published: February 2013

No presente trabalho, tratamos de um problema vindo das ciências aplicadas, a potencialização da extração petrolífera, com o objetivo de destacar seu caráter interdisciplinar. Acompanhamos as principais etapas da determinação de parâmetros petrofísicos de rochas via simulação de fenômenos físicos. Intentamos a exposição dos conceitos pertinentes e nos referimos à literatura para detalhes técnicos específicos. A importância dos ensaios experimentais no desenvolvimento de algoritmos simulatórios, assim como a relevância da colaboração de profissionais de diferentes áreas para uma pesquisa científica abrangente são abordados em uma breve discussão no final do texto. A intenção é mostrar a amplitude das aplicações da física, discutindo as aproximações e limitações da descrição do problema em questão.
Modelagem do fluxo de pedestres pela teoria macroscópica
Authors: Vargas Marina , Gramani Liliana Madalena , Kaviski Eloy , Balbo Fábio André
Published: February 2013

A necessidade de modelar o tráfego de pedestres tem se tornado uma prioridade em ambientes por onde os pedestres possam circular. As pesquisas avançam na tentativa de solucionar acidentes relacionados a multidões. Além disso, analisar estruturas para pedestres antes que elas tenham sido construídas tem se tornado uma exigência das autoridades, assim como poder gerenciar o fluxo de pedestres nessas instalações. Para caracterizar este comportamento, surgiram estudos abrangendo teorias da física e da matemática, que analisam o tráfego de pedestres através de modelos descritos por equações diferenciais e íntegro-diferenciais. Neste trabalho apresenta-se um exemplo de modelo para o tráfego, abordando-o sob a escala macroscópica de modelagem do tráfego e sua ligação direta com a física e os modelos hidrodinâmicos. Aplica-se o modelo criado a uma situação de caminhada, onde os resultados foram comparados a outros trabalhos referentes a simulações e observações experimentais sobre o tráfego de pedestres, encontrados na bibliografia.
Metáforas científicas no discurso jornalístico
Authors: Kinouchi Osame , Kinouchi Juliana M. , Mandrá Angélica A.
Published: February 2013

A educação e divulgação científicas não apenas ampliam o vocabulário e o repertório de conceitos científicos de uma população, mas, ao mesmo tempo, promovem a difusão de certas metáforas conceituais e cognitivas. Neste trabalho, descrevemos este processo e propomos uma classificação em termos de metáforas visíveis, invisíveis, básicas e derivadas. Focalizamos nossa atenção em metáforas físicas aplicadas a fenômenos psicológicos e sócio-econômicos, estudando dois casos exemplares através do exame exaustivo do conteúdo online de grandes portais jornalísticos brasileiros. Finalmente, apresentamos implicações e sugestões da teoria de metáforas cognitivas de Lakoff e Jonhson para o processo de educação e divulgação científicas.
Prevalência e impacto da incontinência urinária na qualidade de vida de idosas institucionalizadas
Authors: Pitangui Ana Carolina Rodarti , Silva Rosemary Gonçalves da , Araújo Rodrigo Cappato de
Published: February 2013

A incontinência urinária (IU) é definida como qualquer perda involuntária de urina. Acomete mulheres de várias faixas etárias e apresenta alta incidência em idosas, afetando de forma significativa a qualidade de vida. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a prevalência de IU em idosas institucionalizadas e verificar sua influência na qualidade de vida. A amostra foi composta por 40 idosas institucionalizadas dos municípios de Petrolina e Juazeiro que tinham idade igual ou superior a 60 anos. Inicialmente, foram coletadas informações sociodemográficas, ginecológicas e sobre a presença de IU. Em seguida, as idosas que relataram perda de urina responderam ao questionário específico King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ). A análise de dados foi feita por meio de estatística descritiva. A presença de IU foi referida por 47,50% das idosas. O domínio do KHQ que sofreu maior interferência na qualidade de vida foi o de percepção de saúde com 51,31%; nos outros domínios, o impacto da IU foi considerado baixo, mas na escala de sintomas as idosas relataram que a IU afeta mais ou menos ou muito sua vida. Foi possível concluir que é elevada a prevalência de IU em idosas institucionalizadas, e observar que muitas vezes essas mulheres convivem com estes sintomas como algo intrínseco ao envelhecimento, não percebendo o quanto afetam sua qualidade de vida.
Efeito da prática do Tai Chi Chuan sobre a resistência aeróbia de idosas sedentárias
Authors: Chao Cheng Hsin Nery , Costa Eduardo Caldas , Elsangedy Hassan Mohamed , Savir Paulo André Holanda , Alves Emanuel Augusto , Okano Alexandre Hideki
Published: February 2013

OBJETIVO: Investigar o efeito da prática do Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) sobre a resistência aeróbia de idosas sedentárias. Métodos: Fizeram parte do estudo 11 idosas sedentárias (67,9 ± 6,8 anos; 25,9 ± 2,8 kg/m²), as quais foram submetidas aos testes de marcha estacionária de dois minutos e teste de caminhada de seis minutos pré e pós-intervenção de 12 semanas de TCC. RESULTADOS: Houve aumento da resistência aeróbia das idosas analisadas após 12 semanas de prática de TCC, demonstrado tanto por meio do teste de caminhada de seis minutos (510 ± 64 vs. 536 ± 63 metros; p = 0,006) quanto no teste de marcha estacionária de dois minutos (83 ± 20 vs. 110 ± 19 execuções; p = 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: De acordo com os resultados obtidos, é possível concluir que a prática do TCC é capaz de promover aumento da resistência aeróbia de idosas sedentárias.
Relação entre os níveis de atividade física e qualidade de vida de idosos sedentários e fisicamente ativos
Authors: Silva Maitê Fátima da , Goulart Natália Batista Albuquerque , Lanferdini Fábio Juner , Marcon Marcelo , Dias Caroline Pieta
Published: February 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: O nível de atividade física pode interferir na capacidade funcional, influenciando na saúde e qualidade de vida dos idosos. OBJETIVO: Comparar os níveis de atividade física e qualidade de vida entre idosos que praticam exercícios físicos regulares e idosos sedentários, e verificar a associação entre o nível de atividade física e a qualidade de vida nos grupos. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 50 idosos do sexo feminino (n= 34) e masculino (n= 16), com idade de 70,24±8,8 anos, divididos em dois grupos - sedentários (G1, n=25) e praticantes de exercícios físicos regulares (G2, n=25). Realizou-se entrevista individual, aplicando-se Anamnese; Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ) e Perfil de Saúde de Nottingham (PSN). A normalidade dos dados foi testada por meio do teste de Shapiro-Wilk, utilizando-se ainda os testes U de Mann-Whitney (qualidade de vida) e Qui-Quadrado (nível de atividade física). A associação entre o nível de atividade física e a qualidade de vida foi avaliada por meio do teste ETA² (p<0,05). RESULTADOS: Em relação ao PSN, o G1 apresentou reduzida qualidade de vida, comparado ao G2. Já para o IPAQ, somente o G1 apresentou diferença significativa (p=0,00) em relação ao G2. Além disso, para o G1, 50% do nível de atividade física foram associados à qualidade de vida, enquanto o G2 apresentou 64%. CONCLUSÕES: De acordo com os resultados encontrados no presente estudo, idosos praticantes de exercícios físicos e idosos sedentários apresentam bom nível de atividade física. Entretanto, idosos praticantes de exercícios regulares possuem maior nível de atividade física, explicando a melhor qualidade de vida neste grupo.
Percepção da qualidade de vida e da finitude de adultos de meia idade e idoso praticantes e não praticantes de atividade física
Authors: Guimarães Adriana Coutinho de Azevedo , Scotti Aryana Vieira , Soares Amanda , Fernandes Sabrina , Machado Zenite
Published: February 2013

OBJETIVO: Este estudo teve como objetivo descobrir a influência da atividade física na percepção de qualidade de vida (QV) e finitude de indivíduos praticantes e não praticantes de atividade física e de dança em salões de dança da grande Florianópolis-SC. MÉTODOS: Participaram por conveniência 195 indivíduos com média de idade de 63,7±9,6 anos, sendo 119 dos salões de dança, 50 praticantes de atividade física (AF), e 26 que não realizam AF. Optou-se por um questionário autoaplicável composto de instrumentos previamente validados (Whoqol abreviado e Finitude de Sheppard). A análise foi descritiva e inferencial por meio do teste do Qui-quadrado e ANOVA. RESULTADOS: A qualidade de vida pode ser considerada positiva com escores que variaram de 70,3 a 58,9% entre seus domínios, tendo uma percepção positiva da finitude, no qual o grupo que realiza dança (79,8%) destacou-se em relação aos demais (p= 0,035). CONCLUSÃO: De acordo com os resultados, entende-se que a prática da dança como AF pode contribuir na percepção positiva da QV e na finitude.
Frequência e repercussão da sobrecarga de cuidadoras familiares de idosos com demência
Authors: Silva Claudia Fernandes da , Passos Valeria Maria de Azeredo , Barreto Sandhi Maria
Published: February 2013

OBJETIVOS: Investigar a prevalência e os fatores associados a sobrecarga, transtornos mentais comuns e autopercepção da memória das cuidadoras familiares de idosos com demência. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal e analítico, com amostra de conveniência de 58 cuidadoras familiares que participaram dos grupos de apoio à família da pessoa com demência. Instrumentos utilizados: questionário sociodemográfico, de hábitos de vida, morbidade referida, uso de medicamentos e de serviços de saúde, Escala Zarit Burden Interview, Self Report Questionnaire 20 (SRQ -20), Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire (PRMQ-10) e Escala Funcional de Pfeffer. RESULTADOS: Predominaram as seguintes características: 42 eram filhas (72,4%), adultas (63,8%), com idade inferior a 60 anos (63,8%) e grau de instrução superior completo (46,6%). Dentre os problemas de saúde autorreferidos, os mais prevalentes foram dores nas costas (63,8%), problemas articulares (60,3%), colesterol alto (51,7%) e hipertensão arterial (44,8%). Os medicamentos mais utilizados foram os anti-hipertensivos (38,9%) e antidepressivos (31,5%). Os dados evidenciaram que o grau de sobrecarga foi de leve a moderado (51,7%). No modelo final, observou-se associação da sobrecarga com ocupação (p=0,014), prática de esporte (p=0,010), ter religião (p=0,032) e tempo na função de cuidadora (p=0,046). Com relação aos transtornos mentais menores, as associações relevantes foram prática de esporte (p=0,028), dores nas costas (p=0,026) e tempo de cuidado diário (p=0,037). As queixas de memória foram associadas estatisticamente ao uso de antidepressivo (p=0,034). CONCLUSÕES: Apesar das informações e orientações sobre a atividade de cuidar nos grupos de apoio, as cuidadoras ainda apresentaram sobrecarga, reforçando a necessidade de um trabalho preventivo, de orientação e tratamento.
Autocuidado universal praticado por idosos em uma instituição de longa permanência
Authors: Santos Zélia Maria de Sousa Araújo , Martins Jocijânia de Oliveira , Frota Natasha Marques , Caetano Joselany Áfio , Moreira Rosa Aparecida Nogueira , Barros Lívia Moreira
Published: February 2013

OBJETIVO: Descrever as ações do autocuidado universal em idosos institucionalizados com enfoque na promoção da saúde. MÉTODOS: Estudo quantitativo, exploratório e descritivo, realizado em uma instituição de longa permanência situada em Fortaleza-CE, com 170 idosos. Os dados foram coletados no período de fevereiro a junho de 2010, por meio de entrevista com a utilização de um roteiro estruturado com base nos requisitos universais do autocuidado de Orem. RESULTADOS: 65,8% (112) dos idosos tinham idade de 60 a 79 anos, 54,1% (92) pertenciam ao sexo feminino, 28,9% (49) eram viúvos, 64,8% (110) tinham escolaridade até o ensino fundamental e 44,2% (75) tinham renda familiar mensal menor que um salário mínimo. Alguns idosos descuidaram em alguns aspectos relacionados ao autocuidado no que se refere a oxigenação, hidratação, atividade e promoção da saúde. Esse déficit de autocuidado pode estar associado às limitações físicas inerentes ao ciclo vital, ao déficit de conhecimento e ao baixo poder aquisitivo. CONCLUSÕES: Faz-se necessário desenvolver atividades voltadas para o lazer e exercícios físicos nessa população, uma vez que essas ações são consideradas importantes para a promoção da saúde e a interação social.
Miíase bucal e doença de Alzheimer: relato de caso clínico
Authors: Ribeiro Marco Túlio de Freitas , Sanglard-Oliveira Carla Aparecida , Naves Marcelo Drummond , Ferreira Efigênia Ferreira e , Vargas Andréa Maria Duarte , Abreu Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães
Published: February 2013

Miíase é uma afecção causada pela presença de larvas de moscas em órgãos e/ou tecidos do homem ou de outros animais vertebrados, sendo mais frequentemente observada em países tropicais. A ocorrência de miíase na cavidade bucal é rara. Dentre os fatores predisponentes, destacam-se a senilidade, o comprometimento neurológico e a halitose. Assim, pacientes com doenças neuro-degenerativas, como a doença de Alzheimer (DA), são mais propensos a adquirirem essa alteração. Este trabalho relata um caso de miíase bucal, acometendo um paciente de 67 anos de idade, com DA em fase avançada, totalmente dependente para as atividades de vida diária (AVD), residente em uma instituição de longa permanência (ILP). O paciente apresentava falta de selamento labial e resistência aos cuidados de higiene bucal. O diagnóstico foi estabelecido clinicamente com base na observação de sangramento na região anterior do palato, descolamento da mucosa bucal e presença de larvas. Foi prescrito o uso de ivermectina e o paciente foi hospitalizado para debridamento do tecido necrótico e remoção das larvas. Após a alta, os cuidadores foram orientados quanto ao uso de máscara pelo paciente, que não se mostrou efetiva, pois o paciente passou a mordê-la, levando a seu deslocamento e reinfestação por larvas. Após o tratamento da reinfestação, adotou-se o uso de cortinado como rotina. Pacientes com DA constituem um grupo de risco para miíase bucal, sendo necessário orientar cuidadores e familiares em relação aos cuidados odontológicos para a prevenção desta patologia. O principal tratamento para a alteração baseia-se na remoção mecânica das larvas e instituição do uso oral da ivermectina.
Fisiologia profana: contribuição para a leitura do conto "a desejada das gentes"
Authors: Longo Mirella Márcia
Published: February 2013

A partir da hipótese de que no conto "A desejada das gentes" se encontra o ponto mais extremo da negação do amor contida na ficção machadiana, considera-se o confronto entre a proposta de impassibilidade personificada em Quintília, a protagonista, e a voz do narrador, atravessada pela poesia da emoção erótica. Em acordo com essa direção, são também comentadas as complexas relações que Machado de Assis mantém com o Romantismo e com as tendências que, em seu tempo, lutavam contra a força magnética do legado romântico.
Flashes intermitentes: a presença da fotografia em Dom Casmurro
Authors: Vezzani Cintia Kozonoi
Published: February 2013

O presente artigo parte do tema da fotografia para valer-se dele como modo de compreensão do narrador em Dom Casmurro, romance publicado por Machado de Assis em 1899. Através do levantamento de passagens do enredo centradas em algum retrato (englobando nessa categoria pinturas e fotografias), desenvolve-se a noção de "narração-fotográfica", que visa enfatizar a reiteração de hipóteses e rememorações realizadas pela personagem Bentinho a partir de instantes cristalizados no tempo. A necessidade de posse através do apego às imagens, assim como aos momentos vividos relembrados pela memória, destaca a luta interior da personagem contra o esquecimento de momentos, a solidão e a condição efêmera da vida.
The tribe Hippomaneae (Euphorbiaceae) in Brazil
Authors: Esser Hans-Joachim
Published: February 2013

The tribe Hippomaneae (Euphorbiaceae) in Brazil. The tribe Hippomaneae is discussed with respect to its taxonomic history, its placement within the Euphorbiaceae, its diagnostic characters (particularly the floral buds), current data on phylogeny and subdivision, and its general pattern of diversity. The tribe is represented in Brazil with 13 genera and ca. 120 species. A key to the Brazilian genera is provided. All Brazilian genera are discussed, citing relevant characters, recent taxonomic literature, and the current state of knowledge, sometimes pointing to unresolved problems. For five of the genera, published revisions exist; six genera have unpublished but completed revisions or are currently under revision. Actinostemon and Gymnanthes are currently the most difficult genera, mostly based on the absence of available up-to-date taxonomic references. For Mabea and Senefeldera, two genera with completed but currently unpublished revisions, additional data are given on aspects of their taxonomy, ecology and biogeography.
An overview of recent taxonomic studies on Euphorbiaceae s.l. in Brazil
Authors: Secco Ricardo de S. , Cordeiro Inês , Senna-Vale Luci de , Sales Margareth F. de , Lima Letícia Ribes de , Medeiros Débora , Sá Haiad Bárbara de , Oliveira Arline Souza de , Caruzo Maria Beatriz Rossi , Carneiro-Torres Daniela , Bigio Narcisio C.
Published: February 2013

The Euphorbiaceae sensu lato are distributed mainly in the tropics, in various types of vegetation and habitats, being one of the largest, most complex and diverse families of angiosperms. It has recently been divided into four families, according to classification systems based on molecular phylogeny: Euphorbiaceae sensu stricto, Phyllanthaceae, Putranjivaceae, and Picrodendraceae. There is a proposition to establish Peraceae still under discussion. There were also changes in the taxonomic position of genera widely distributed in the Brazilian territory, such as Amanoa, Drypetes, Pera, Phyllanthus, Podocalyx, Pogonophora, and Richeria, among others. In addition, new species have been proposed and the limits of taxa distribution are expanding in Brazil. Thus, the authors provide an overview of recent studies and advances in the taxonomy of Euphorbiaceae s.l. in the Northern, Northeastern, Southeastern and Southern regions of Brazil, concentrating on review works and regional floras, as well as the changes that resulted in setting a new taxonomic family.
Physiognomy and structure of a caatinga with Cordia oncocalyx (Boraginaceae), a new type of community in Andrade-Lima's classification of caatingas
Authors: Costa Rafael Carvalho da , Araújo Francisca Soares de
Published: February 2013

Recently, the inclusion of physiognomies with Cordia oncocalyx Allemão (Boraginaceae) as a new type/unit within Andrade-Lima's classification of caatingas (ALFPC) has been proposed. However, no study has quantitatively analyzed this proposal so far. In order to fill this gap, a phytosociological study was conducted in a caatinga with C. oncocalyx, and differences in structure and physiognomy in relation to compiled caatinga studies were verified. 1795 plants from 25 species and a total basal area of 35.26 m² were found. C. oncocalyx and Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth. (Fabaceae) had 48% of total importance index (IV). The physiognomy was characterized by the predominance of individuals of intermediate height (3‒4 m) and the tallest ones accounted for the highest fraction of basal area. Of the five species with highest IV, only one had high frequency among the species with highest IV in the compiled studies (16/35). Only two of these compiled studies were comparable to the present study, and only one could be classified according to ALFPC. A contrast between that study and the present one was found, as the first reports a dense community with high number of small diameter individuals accounting for most of the basal area. These findings suggest the suitability of including C. oncocalyx caatingas in low and medium caatinga forests as proposed in ALFPC. However, the low number of comparable studies limits generalizations.
Olyreae (Poaceae: Bambusoideae) da Marambaia, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Authors: Silva Christian da , Conde Marilena de Menezes Silva , Longhi-Wagner Hilda Maria
Published: February 2013

A Marambaia localiza-se no sul do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, entre a Baía de Sepetiba e o Oceano Atlântico, nos domínios da Mata Atlântica. Os representantes da tribo Olyreae constituem os bambus herbáceos e são encontrados, principalmente, nos trópicos do Novo Mundo, geralmente compondo o estrato herbáceo de matas, estando por isso ameaçados pela degradação ou fragmentação de habitats. O presente estudo objetivou levantar as espécies de Poaceae pertencentes à tribo Olyreae que ocorrem na área de estudo e contribuir para o conhecimento da sua diversidade, distribuição e conservação. As coletas foram realizadas de agosto de 2008 a dezembro de 2010, através de caminhadas livres ao longo de trilhas nas diversas formações vegetais. Foi verificada a ocorrência de sete espécies da tribo Olyreae, distribuídas, principalmente, nas áreas de floresta atlântica de encosta. A subtribo Olyrineae está representada por Cryptochloa capillata, Olyra humilis, O. latifolia, Parodiolyra micrantha, Raddia brasiliensis e Reitzia smithii, e a subtribo Parianinae, por Eremitis sp. Olyra latifolia e P. micranta são as espécies mais comuns na área. Eremitis sp. provavelmente se constitui em uma nova espécie.
Does selective logging affect the leaf structure of a late successional species?
Authors: Rabelo Guilherme Rodrigues , Klein Denise Espellet , Da Cunha Maura
Published: February 2013

The anatomical characteristics of both sun and shade leaves of Alseis pickelii were investigated in order to evaluate the consequences of selective logging (in seasonally dry Atlantic Forest) on the leaf structure of this species. Fully expanded sun and shade leaves were collected in two distinct stands of tabuleiro forest; a stand of recently logged forest and an unlogged stand. Only leaves from the unlogged stand revealed significantly different magnitudes of response to light regimes, producing leaves with structural characteristics associated with different levels of irradiance. The sun leaves from this stand had a thicker adaxial surface, mesophyll, palisade and spongy parenchyma, a secondary cell wall of fibers and a lower leaf area compared with the shade leaves. However, in the logged stand, the leaf cuticles of sun and shade leaves showed no significant differences, although the leaf area of the sun leaves was higher than the shade leaves. According to these data, we concluded that the unlogged stand produced typical "sun" and "shade" leaves. In contrast, leaves from the logged stand showed a lower variation of types, where neither typical "sun" nor typical "shade" leaves were produced, suggesting lower leaf plasticity of this late successional tree in this area.
Dinâmica sucessional de comunidade de algas perifíticas em um ecossistema lótico subtropical
Authors: Felisberto Sirlene Aparecida , Rodrigues Liliana
Published: February 2013

O principal objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever as mudanças na estrutura de comunidades de algas perifíticas durante o processo de colonização e sucessão, em período chuvoso, indicando suas espécies descritoras. O local selecionado para a realização deste estudo foi o rio do Corvo (22º39'S, 52º46'W), um afluente do rio Paranapanema localizado próximo à barragem do reservatório de Rosana, na região noroeste do Paraná, Brasil. Coletas do perifíton em substrato artificial e medições de dados abióticos foram realizadas no período de 21 de novembro a 12 de dezembro de 2003, em intervalos de três dias. A identificação e quantificação das algas foi feita em microscópio invertido, utilizando-se o método de Utermöhl. Para análise da dinâmica sucessional, foram considerados: riqueza de espécies, densidade total, abundância relativa dos táxons, espécies descritoras, diversidade de Shannon-Wiener e equitabilidade. As flutuações observadas na densidade total foram determinadas principalmente por Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Cyanophyceae e Zygnemaphyceae. Maiores valores de abundância na comunidade de algas perifíticas foram registrados para espécies pequenas de diatomáceas, abundantes durante todo o período, consideradas colonizadores eficientes e de crescimento rápido, assim como para cianobactérias e algas verdes filamentosas (Oedogonium spp. e Stigeoclonium spp.), de crescimento mais lento e mais abundantes nos estádios tardios. As primeiras estão entre as r-estrategistas, enquanto as últimas estão entre as C-S estrategistas (algas mais competitivas em sistemas mesotróficos e estáveis). A diversidade de Shannon-Wiener foi elevada (2,2 a 3,1), com o maior valor constatado na terceira semana de desenvolvimento sucessional. Com base em análise de componentes principais, as concentrações de nutrientes, o pH e a turbidez foram os principais fatores abióticos relacionados ao processo de sucessão.
Ferns and lycophytes in Brazil's semi-arid region
Authors: Xavier Sergio Romero da Silva , Barros Iva Carneiro Leão , Santiago Augusto César Pessôa
Published: February 2013

Little knowledge has been gathered on ferns and lycophytes occurring in the semi-arid region of Brazil known as the Caatinga, perhaps due to the widespread idea that a semi-arid climate would be incompatible with environmental demands of ferns and lycophytes (high humidity and shade). Ferns and lycophytes are represented in the semi-arid region of Brazil by at least 41 species, 20 genera and 11 families, distributed in the northeastern states (except Maranhão) and Minas Gerais. In this region, most of the species were recorded in moist, shaded microhabitats: cracks in rocks, ravines in shaded areas, springs, temporary lakes or areas with temporarily flooded soil. Although the majority of species recorded are widely distributed throughout Brazil, the high representation of aquatic species and low representation of epiphytes demonstrate the unique identity of the fern and lycophyte flora of the semi-arid region.
Visualization of the Fetal Lip and Palate: Is Brain-Targeted MRI Reliable?
Authors: Moreira Nuno Canto , Ribeiro Valentina , Teixeira João , Raininko Raili , Wikstrom Johan
Published: February 2013

Objective

To evaluate the ability of brain-targeted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the anatomy of the fetal upper lip and palate.

Design

Two independent readers made a blind retrospective review of 60 brain-targeted MRIs of fetuses from 20 to 38 gestational weeks (GW). Fifty-five MRIs were normal and five had orofacial anomalies, including one isolated cleft lip and four cleft lip and palate. Both normal and cleft MRIs had postnatal confirmation. The upper lip, primary palate, secondary palate, and nasal septum were scored into four levels, from evidently normal to evidently abnormal. In case of a suspected pathology, the readers attempted a diagnosis.

Setting

Collaboration between a university hospital and a large private practice MRI center.

Results

Interobserver agreement (weighted kappa) was 0.79 for the upper lip, 0.70 for the primary palate, 0.86 for the secondary palate, and 0.90 for the nasal septum. The scoring levels of the readers did not change significantly across gestational age. Normality was correctly scored in 96% to 100% of the normal lips and primary palates and in 93% to 97% of the normal secondary palates depending on the reader. A deviated septum was only scored in two fetuses with unilateral cleft palates. The readers identified all pathological cases.

Conclusion

Brain-targeted fetal MRI in experienced hands seems to be highly accurate for the evaluation of the lip and palate in fetuses above 20 GW, regardless of gestational age. The assessment of the secondary palate may be slightly more limited than the lip or primary palate.
Hydrolytic degradation and thermal properties of epoxy resins derived from soybean oil
Authors: Yang Guozhen , Rohde Brian J. , Robertson Megan L.
Published: February 2013

Vegetable oils are an attractive substitute for petroleum sources for the derivation of polymers. Epoxy resins have been synthesized containing epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) and traditional petroleum-derived epoxy resin components (the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A [DGEBA] and methylene dianiline). The curing reaction was moni-tored with in situ differential scanning calorimetry, indicating that significantly higher curing temperatures are required for ESO as compared with DGEBA. Increasing the concentration of ESO in the resin sig-nificantly decreased the glass transition temperature. However, epoxy resins with high ESO content (60–100 wt% relative to the total epoxide-bearing molecules in the mixture) exhibited a second, higher-temperature peak in the derivative of the thermogravimetric analysis weight loss curve. Significant differ-ences were observed in the hydrolytic degradation characteristics of the polymers at 80°C in NaOH solutions. Polymers with 0–40 wt% ESO exhibited little measurable mass loss over 72 days (in both 3 and 10 wt% NaOH solutions), while polymers with 60–100 wt% ESO exhibited substantial mass loss within 2 weeks in a 3 wt% NaOH solution. The presence of degradable cleavage points throughout the network structure may provide a valuable route for recycling these materials after their useful lifetime. Supple-mentary information is available at http://www.icevirtuallibrary.com/upload/10.1680gmat.12.00023_SupplementaryInformation.pdf
Genetic and Genotype × Environment Interaction Analysis for Agronomical and Some Morphological Traits in Half‐Sib Families of Tall Fescue
Authors: Amini Fatemeh , Majidi Mohammad Mahdi , Mirlohi Aghafakhr
Published: February 2013

Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) is an outcrossing allohexaploid grass species extensively used for forage and turf worldwide. Twenty‐five genotypes of tall fescue were chosen from a broad‐base population and the genetic diversity was evaluated based on expressed sequence tag‐simple sequence repeat molecular markers and agronomical and morphological traits. Their respective half‐sib polycross progenies were also evaluated for these same traits at six environments (two locations for 3 yr). The high genotypic variation observed for plant seed yield and some morphological traits in parental genotypes and their respective progenies indicated high potential for improving these traits through targeted selection in breeding programs. Family and family × location interactions were significant for most characteristics. Narrow‐sense heritability estimates were moderately high for plant seed weight (49%), number of fertile tillers (46%), panicle length (45%), and plant height (44%). These indicate that family selection methods should be more effective than individual selection. Stable families across environments were identified based on the regression coefficients, deviations from the regression, and yield potential indicating the usefulness of these parameters in the selection process for seed and forage yield improvement where additive × environment interactions are present.
Development of Functional Molecular Markers of SbeI and SbeIIb for the High Amylose Maize Germplasm Line GEMS‐0067
Authors: Chen Tingting , Ning Lihua , Liu Xu , Cui Dezhou , Zhang Hua , Li Detao , Zhao Li , Chen Huabang
Published: February 2013

The development of high amylose corn (Zea mays L.) in the public sector has been hindered by the lack of high amylose germplasm available to breeders and difficulties in accurate and efficient amylose content measurement. GEMS‐0067 is the first public germplasm that possesses recessive amylose‐extender (ae) gene and a modifier gene or genes that raises amylose level to over 70%. Several lines of evidences suggested that SbeI is one of the major modifier genes for high amylose corn, and our work for the first time showed that SbeI explained 49% of the total amylose variance in the amylose extender background. We developed and validated functional codominant molecular markers of SbeI and SbeIIb for GEMS‐0067 that were able to distinguish AeAe, Aeae, and aeae genotypes. These simple, sequence‐specific, polymerase chain reaction‐based, low‐cost markers amenable to larger numbers of plant samples make them potentially viable for marker‐assisted selection in practical high amylose corn breeding programs. GEMS‐0067 was of mixed heterotic derivation. Our result clearly showed that GEMS‐0067 was genetically more similar to Mo17 and was clustered into non‐Stiff Stalk heterotic group based on 25 simple sequence repeat profiles. The information provided here would facilitate the development of high amylose corn.
The Politics of Medicine and the Global Governance of Pandemic Influenza
Authors: Kamradt-Scott Adam
Published: February 2013

While still significant, the 2009 H1N1 (A) influenza pandemic was generally viewed as comparatively mild in contrast to past influenza pandemics. Even so, the conventional response of many governments to protect their populations against the threat from the H1N1 virus was to ensure adequate vaccine production and/or access to supplies of vaccines and antiviral medications. In this article, I examine the influence of biomedical knowledge (and the professionals that wield it) in determining the acceptable and rational limits of influenza public policy from 1918 to today. Particular attention is given to the role that medical practitioners have played in shaping post-World War II influenza policy and governance structures, together with the development, deployment, and political effect of more recent biomedical techniques—such as evidence-based medicine—in reinforcing the importance attached to influenza vaccines and antivirals. The article concludes by discussing how the intense focus on pharmaceutical-based solutions reflects a particular view of biomedicine that has had serious political implications in distorting global health governance arrangements, and I argue that only by unpacking these structures and revealing the political authority in play can alternative policy responses more appropriate to a wider proportion of humanity be considered.
Enhancing a Safe Water Intervention with Student-Created Visual AIDS to Promote Handwashing Behavior in Kenyan Primary Schools
Authors: Graves Janessa M. , Daniell William E. , Harris Julie R. , Obure Alfredo F. X. O. , Quick Robert
Published: February 2013

The Nyando Integrated Child Health Education (NICHE) project was a collaborative effort by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and local partners to assess the effectiveness of multiple interventions for improving child survival in western Kenya. To increase handwashing in schools, NICHE trained teachers and installed handwashing stations with treated water and soap in 51 primary schools. This cluster-randomized trial evaluated an additional educational strategy (a poster contest themed, “Handwashing with Soap”) to improve handwashing behavior in 23 NICHE primary schools. Pupils were engaged in the poster development. Pupil handwashing behavior was observed unobtrusively at baseline and after four months. Intervention schools displayed a significant increase in the number of handwashing stations and proportion of teacher-supervised stations over the study period. No significant between-group differences of intervention in handwashing frequency, soap availability, or visibility of handwashing stations was observed. Despite finding a limited effect beyond the NICHE intervention, the trial appeared to promote sustainability across some measures.
Men's Views on Gender and Sexuality in a Bangladesh Village
Authors: Islam Md. Muradul , Karim K. M. Rabiul
Published: February 2013

The violation of women's sexual rights is a crucial public health problem, which is often related to the way people view gender and sexuality in a society. This study explores married men's typical views on gender, family, and sexuality in a rural Bangladesh context. Using a qualitative methodological approach, 10 married men were purposively included from a northwest village. The study revealed that married men's views about gender and sexuality are heavily influenced by patriarchal norms. Men think that a wife is the property of her husband and that the wife should obey her husband by giving sex to her husband whenever he wants. Men also think that if women fail to obey their husbands or please them sexually, men are allowed to beat their wives. Interviews explored that the violation of women's sexual rights might be closely related to men's gendered views about women's rights.
Understanding the Role of Yellowstone Lake in the Prehistory of Interior Northwestern North America
Authors: Macdonald Douglas H. , Mcintyre Jordan C. , Livers Michael C.
Published: February 2013

As North America's largest, high-elevation lake, Yellowstone Lake, Wyoming, played an important role in the lifeways of Great Plains, Great Basin, and Rocky Mountains Native Americans during prehistory. Various hypotheses suggest that the lake was important during the spring for fishing, during the winter for hunting, and/or during warm months for generalized foraging. Because the lake's islands contain archaeological sites, some also have proposed that boats were utilized during prehistory at the lake. Using ethnohistoric, archaeological, and spatial data, we evaluate these suppositions about use of Yellowstone Lake. We suggest that annual use of the lake was initiated in early spring when the lake was frozen providing access to islands and continued through the summer. Lithic data and ethnohistoric research support the hypothesis that multiple ethnic groups used the lake in prehistory because it is a concentrated resource area.
Ultra-Violet Light Emission from HPV-G Cells Irradiated with Low Let Radiation from 90Y; Consequences for Radiation Induced Bystander Effects
Authors: Ahmad Syed Bilal , McNeill Fiona E. , Byun Soo Hyun , Prestwich William V. , Mothersill Carmel , Seymour Colin , Armstrong Andrea , Fernandez Cristian
Published: February 2013

In this study, we aimed to establish the emission of UV photons when HPV-G cells and associated materials (such as the cell substrate and cell growth media) are exposed to low LET radiation. The potential role of UV photons in the secondary triggering of biological processes led us to hypothesize that the emission and absorption of photons at this wavelength explain some radiation induced “bystander effects” that have previously been thought to be chemically mediated. Cells were plated in Petri-dishes of two different sizes, having different thicknesses of polystyrene (PS) substrate, and were exposed to β-radiation from 90Y produced by the McMaster Nuclear Reactor. UV measurements were performed using a single photon counting system employing an interference-type filter for selection of a narrow wavelength range, 340±5 nm, of photons. Exposure of the cell substrates (which were made of polystyrene) determined that UV photons were being emitted as a consequence of β particle irradiation of the Petri-dishes. For a tightly collimated β-particle beam exposure, we observed 167 photons in the detector per unit μCi in the shielded source for a 1.76 mm thick substrate and 158 photons/μCi for a 0.878 mm thick substrate. A unit μCi source activity was equivalent to an exposure to the substrate of 18 β-particles/cm2 in this case. The presence of cells and medium in a Petri-dish was found to significantly increase (up to a maximum of 250%) the measured number of photons in a narrow band of wavelengths of 340±5 nm (i.e. UVA) as compared to the signal from an empty control Petri-dish. When coloured growth medium was added to the cells, it reduced the measured count rate, while the addition of transparent medium in equal volume increased the count rate, compared to cells alone. We attribute this to the fact that emission, scattering and absorption of light by cells and media are all variables in the experiment. Under collimated irradiation conditions, it was observed that increasing cell density in medium of fixed volume resulted in a decrease in the observed light output. This followed a roughly exponential decline. We suggest that this may be due to increased scattering at the cell boundary and absorption of the UV in the cells. We conclude that we have measured UVA emitted by cells, cell medium and cell substrates as a consequence of their irradiation by low LET β-particle radiation. We suggest that these secondary UV photons could lead to effects in non-targetted cells. Some effects that had previously been attributed to a chemically mediated “bystander effect” may in fact be due to secondary UV emission. Some radiation bystander effect studies may require re-interpretation as this phenomenon of UV emission is further investigated.
Apelin Inhibits Diet-Induced Obesity by Enhancing Lymphatic and Blood Vessel Integrity
Authors: Sawane Mika , Kajiya Kentaro , Kidoya Hiroyasu , Takagi Masaya , Muramatsu Fumitaka , Takakura Nobuyuki
Published: February 2013

Angiogenesis is tightly associated with the outgrowth of adipose tissue, leading to obesity, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes and hypertension, mainly because expanding adipose tissue requires an increased nutrient supply from blood vessels. Therefore, induction of vessel abnormality by adipokines has been well-studied, whereas how altered vascular function promotes obesity is relatively unexplored. Also, surviving Prox1 heterozygous mice have shown abnormal lymphatic patterning and adult-onset obesity, indicating that accumulation of adipocytes could be closely linked with lymphatic function. Here, we propose a new antiobesity strategy based on enhancement of lymphatic and blood vessel integrity with apelin. Apelin knockout (KO) mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) showed an obese phenotype associated with abnormal lymphatic and blood vessel enlargement. Fatty acids present in the HFD induced hyperpermeability of endothelial cells, causing adipocyte differentiation, whereas apelin promoted vascular stabilization. Moreover, treatment of apelin KO mice with a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, celecoxib, that were fed an HFD improved vascular function and also attenuated obesity. Finally, apelin transgenic mice showed decreased subcutaneous adipose tissue attributable to inhibition of HFD-induced hyperpermeability of vessels. These results indicate that apelin inhibits HFD-induced obesity by enhancing vessel integrity. Apelin could serve as a therapeutic target for treating obesity and related diseases.
Bilateral Wilms Tumor with TP53-Related Anaplasia
Authors: Popov Sergey D. , Vujanic Gordan M. , Sebire Neil J. , Chagtai Tasnim , Williams Richard , Vaidya Sucheta , Pritchard-Jones Kathy
Published: February 2013

Wilms tumor (WT) with diffuse anaplasia has an unfavorable prognosis and is often (>70%) associated with mutations in the TP53 gene. Although most WTs are unilateral, 5–10% are bilateral, and they are almost always present with nephrogenic rests. The latter are considered a precursor of WT. Two cases of bilateral WTs with nephroblastomatosis, in which anaplastic changes were detected over a period of time, were analyzed using clinical, radiological, histopathological, and molecular-genetic data. TP53 was analyzed by direct sequencing of its full coding sequence and intron-exon boundaries in 11 fragments. DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded or frozen specimens. High-resolution genomic copy number profiling was carried out by UCL Genomics on the Affymetrix Human Mapping 250K Nsp or Genome-Wide Human SNP Array 6.0 platform. Both cases demonstrated a strong association between the appearance of anaplastic clones and TP53 mutations. Synchronous ganglioneuroma was diagnosed in one case. Our cases are unique as they represent a long disease history and demonstrate the difficulties in managing rare cases of bilateral WT with anaplasia. These cases also emphasize the practical importance of modern molecular-genetic techniques and their clinical application. Moreover, they highlight the issue of the adequate sampling needed in order to gather comprehensive, efficient, and sufficient information about genetic events in a single tumor.