bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integrative taxonomic review of the agamid genus Bronchocela (Kuhl, 1820) from Peninsular Malaysia with descriptions of new montane and insular endemics
Authors: GRISMER L. LEE , WOOD P. L. JR. , LEE CHEOL HAENG , QUAH EVAN S. H. , ANUAR SHAHRUL , NGADI EHWAN , SITES JACK W. JR.
Published: April 2015

An integrative taxonomic analysis is used to identify and describe two new species of the agamid genus Bronchocela (Kuhl) from Peninsular Malaysia: an upland species B. shenlong sp. nov. from Bukit Larut, Perak in the Bintang Mountain Range and Parit Falls, Cameron Highlands, Pahang in the Titiwangsa Mountain Range and an insular species, B. rayaensis sp. nov., from Pulau Langkawi, Kedah off the northwest coast on the border with Thailand. Both species are diagnosed from each other and all other species of Bronchocela on the basis of body shape, scale morphology, and color pattern. The analysis also demonstrates the remarkable genetic similarity of B. cristatella (Kuhl) throughout 1120 km of its range from northern Peninsular Malaysia to western Borneo despite its highly variable coloration and pattern. The two new species are appended to a rapidly growing list of newly described lizard species (60 to date) from Peninsular Malaysia tallied within the last decade.
A new species of Indian caecilian highlights challenges for species delimitation within Gegeneophis Peters, 1879 (Amphibia: Gymnophiona: Indotyphlidae)
Authors: KOTHARAMBATH RAMACHANDRAN , WILKINSON MARK , OOMMEN OOMMEN V. , GOWER DAVID J.
Published: April 2015

A new species of indotyphlid caecilian amphibian, Gegeneophis tejaswini sp. nov., is described based on eight specimens from lowlands of the most northerly district of the state of Kerala in the southern part of the Western Ghats region, India. This species is distinguished from all other Gegeneophis in annulation characters and genetics (> 6% different from most similar nominal species for 883 base pairs of mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA gene sequence data). The high degree of morphological similarity of G. krishni, G. mhadeiensis and the new species underlines that, for some Gegeneophis, larger samples and/or new characters will be needed to further advance the taxonomy of this genus.
A new species and first record of Cotinis Burmeister (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae) for Venezuela
Authors: GASCA-ÁLVAREZ HÉCTOR JAIME , DELOYA CUAUHTÉMOC
Published: April 2015

A new Cotinis Burmeister (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae: Gymnetini) species from Venezuela is described and illustrated. The new species is compared with Cotinis barthelemyi (Gory & Percheron) from Colombia. The Neotropical distribution of Cotinis is expanded to Venezuela. A revised key to the species of Cotinis is provided in both English and Spanish.
Influence of Mesoscale Topography on Tropical Cyclone Tracks: Further Examination of the Channeling Effect
Authors: Wu Chun-Chieh , Li Tsung-Han , Huang Yi-Hsuan
Published: April 2015

Observations have documented typhoons experiencing pronounced track deflection before making landfall in Taiwan. In this study, idealized full-physics model experiments are conducted to assess the orographic influence on tropical cyclone (TC) track. An intense and westward-moving TC is simulated to approach the bell-shaped terrain imitating the Taiwan topography. Sensitivity numerical experiments are carried out to evaluate the topographic effect under different flow regimes and parameters, such as TC intensity, terrain height, and incident angle of the TC movement toward the topography. All the presented simulated storms experience southward track deflection prior to landfall. Different from the mechanism related to the channeling-effect-induced low-level northerly jet as suggested in previous studies, this study indicates the leading role of the northerly asymmetric flow in the midtroposphere in causing the southward deflection of the simulated TC tracks. The midtropospheric northerly asymmetric flow forms as a result of the wind speeds restrained east of the storm center and winds enhanced/maintained west of the storm center. In all, this study highlights a new mechanism that contributes to the terrain-induced southward track deflection in addition to the traditional channeling effect.
Onset of the Rainy Seasons in the Eastern Indochina Peninsula
Authors: Nguyen-Le Dzung , Matsumoto Jun , Ngo-Duc Thanh
Published: April 2015

The onset dates of rainy season over the eastern Indochina Peninsula (8.5°–23.5°N, 100°–110°E) are objectively determined for individual years from 1958 to 2007 using the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis. On average, the onset of the summer rainy season (SRS) determined by EOF1 is 6 May, with a standard deviation of 13 days. The autumn rainy season (ARS) indicated by EOF2 has a mean onset and standard deviation of 16 September and 12 days, respectively. The SRS onset is characterized by the evolution of summer monsoon westerlies and the northward propagation of strong convection from the equatorial region. Conversely, the withdrawal of the summer monsoon over northeastern Indochina in late summer–early autumn favors the ARS onset. Both onsets are strongly associated with intraseasonal oscillation on 30–60- and 10–20-day time scales.

Examination of the precursory signals associated with the early/late onsets of both SRS and ARS implies that ENSO has a significant impact on their year-to-year variations. In La Niña years, the subsequent SRS tends to have early onsets. Simultaneously, the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) weakens and retreats eastward earlier. In contrast, advanced ARS onset generally occurs during an El Niño–developing autumn with weakened equatorial easterlies and suppressed convection over the central Indian Ocean from the preceding summer, as evident in weakened Walker circulation. However, robust precursory signals in SST are observed only from midsummer (July–August). An earlier ARS onset is also associated with the development of an anomalous Philippine Sea anticyclone and a westward-extended WPSH from midsummer. However, no coherent correlation is found between the late onset and La Niña.
The Common Core’s first casualty
Authors: Bowdon Jill
Published: April 2015

Although the Common Core standards do not prescribe pedagogy or forbid playful learning, kindergarten teachers will find it challenging to maintain a playful classroom under this reform. Kindergarten teachers have to cover a more rigorous and accelerated curriculum now, and they are doing so in a context that rewards procedural teaching.
Overcoming resistance to new ideas
Authors: Powell William , Kusuma-Powell Ochan
Published: April 2015

There are two types of challenges that adults face in their professional learning: technical and adaptive. Technical challenges simply require informational learning while adaptive challenges require transformational learning, which requires us to rethink our deeply held values, beliefs, assumptions, and even our professional identity. Adaptive challenges are complex and addressing them requires patience and time.
Similarity Indices for 500 Classical Music Composers
Authors: Smith Charles H. , Georges Patrick
Published: April 2015

In a recent article the authors inferred classical composer similarities on the basis of their common and distinct personal (individual) musical influences. In this paper, the authors examine how much, if any, additional explanation can be added when ‘ecological’ measures (i.e., other characteristics such as time period, geographical location, school association, instrumentation emphases, etc.) are also taken into account. Although the two methods do not generate identical similarities rankings, their combination does provide, arguably, an improved system of ranking.
Feline hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Parker Valerie J , Gilor Chen , Chew Dennis J
Published: April 2015

Practical relevance:

Hyperparathyroidism exists in primary and secondary forms. Primary hyperparathyroidism has typically been considered a disease that uncommonly affects cats, but this condition is more prevalent than previous diagnoses would suggest. Secondary hyperparathyroidism may be caused by either nutritional influences (ie, nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism) or chronic kidney disease (ie, renal secondary hyperparathyroidism). Tertiary hyperparathyroidism has yet to be documented in veterinary medicine, but it is possible that this condition occurs in some cats following longstanding renal secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Clinical challenges:

Diagnosis of this group of calcium metabolic disorders presents a number of challenges for the clinician. For example, clinical signs can be non-specific and, especially in the case of primary hyperparathyroidism, there is often a low index of suspicion for the disease; careful sample handling is required for testing of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and ionized calcium levels; and there is currently no feline-specific assay for PTH, which has implications for test sensitivity and interpretation of results.

Aims:

This article briefly outlines PTH and calcium physiology by way of introduction to a review of PTH measurement and interpretation. Various forms of feline hyperparathyroidism are then described, encompassing diagnosis and treatment options.
Ecological Model of Australian Indigenous Men’s Health
Authors: McCabe Marita P. , Mellor David , Ricciardelli Lina A , Mussap Alexander J. , Hallford David J.
Published: April 2015

This study was designed to examine the health behaviors as well as the enablers and barriers to health behaviors among Indigenous Australian men. One hundred and fifty Indigenous Australian men in rural, regional, and urban locations were interviewed about their health behaviors. The results revealed several themes of importance: (a) role of community activities, (b) the Indigenous man as a leader and role model, (c) negative impact of discrimination/racism, (d) importance of partner and family, (e) positive and negative role of peer relationships, (f) central role of culturally appropriate health care facilities, and (g) association between employment and health care problems. These findings highlight the importance of broad community-based (rather than individualistic) approaches to promoting health behavior in Indigenous men.
Investigation of non-equilibrium grain boundary segregation on CGHAZ in reactor pressure vessel steel
Authors: Li Y. L. , Fu L. M. , Yu L. K.
Published: April 2015

In order to explore the reasons for coarse grained embrittlement, post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) with different times was conducted on the coarse grained heat affected zone (CGHAZ) of A533B steel. The results reveal that the impact toughness of the CGHAZ at room temperature decreases with the prolongation of PWHT time from 0.5 to 4 h. As the PWHT time increases to 4 h, the fracture feature of the CGHAZ presents intergranular cleavage ruptures, and the impact toughness exhibits the minimum value. After PWHT for 4 h, the area of the intergranular cleavage fractures decreases, and the impact toughness gradually increases. Further research reveals that there is phosphorus grain boundary segregation in the CGHAZ. The theory of non-equilibrium grain boundary segregation (NGS) is proposed to explain the phenomenon. It is found that the PWHT time with minimum impact toughness is consistent with critical time of phosphorus NGS.
Microstructure and tribological properties of self-lubricating antiwear composite coating on Ti6Al4V alloy
Authors: Ren J. , Liu X.-B. , Lu X.-L. , Yu P.-C. , Zhu G.-X. , Chen Y. , Xu D.
Published: April 2015

Self-lubricating antiwear composite coatings were fabricated on Ti6Al4V alloy by laser cladding. The dry sliding wear tests under various temperatures (ambient temperature, 350°C and 700°C) and normal loads (3, 6, 9 and 12 N) were accomplished, and the corresponding wear mechanisms were investigated. Results show that the composite coating presented lower friction coefficient at ambient temperature and 700°C, and the wear rate increased monotonously from ambient temperature to 700°C. The reasons are that the hard phases of TiC and TiWC2 carbides enhance the wear capabilities at ambient temperature to 350°C. The CrS and Ti2CS sulphides have friction reducing effect at 700°C. The friction coefficient decreased and the wear rate increased with the increasing of normal load. It is ascribed to the effects of the CrS and Ti2CS sulphides at moderate normal load. It is implied that the tribological property of the composite coating showed the best at ambient temperature and moderate normal load.
Hybrid Si nanocones/PEDOT:PSS solar cell
Authors: Wang Hao , Wang Jianxiong , Rusli ᅟ
Published: April 2015

Periodic silicon nanocones (SiNCs) with different periodicities are fabricated by dry etching of a Si substrate patterned using monolayer polystyrene (PS) nanospheres as a mask. Hybrid Si/PEDOT:PSS solar cells based on the SiNCs are then fabricated and characterized in terms of their optical, electrical, and photovoltaic properties. The optical properties of the SiNCs are also investigated using theoretical simulation based on the finite element method. The SiNCs reveal excellent light trapping ability as compared to a planar Si substrate. It is found that the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the hybrid cells decreases with increasing periodicity of the SiNCs. The highest PCE of 7.1% is achieved for the SiNC hybrid cell with a 400-nm periodicity, due to the strong light trapping near the peak of the solar spectrum and better current collection efficiency.

PACS: 81.07.-b; 81.16.-c; 88.40.hj
Evolutionary dynamics of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus within a healthcare system
Authors: Hsu Li-Yang , Harris Simon R , Chlebowicz Monika A , Lindsay Jodi A , Koh Tse-Hsien , Krishnan Prabha , Tan Thean-Yen , Hon Pei-Yun , Grubb Warren B , Bentley Stephen D , Parkhill Julian , Peacock Sharon J , Holden Matthew TG
Published: April 2015

Background

In the past decade, several countries have seen gradual replacement of endemic multi-resistant healthcare-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with clones that are more susceptible to antibiotic treatment. One example is Singapore, where MRSA ST239, the dominant clone since molecular profiling of MRSA began in the mid-1980s, has been replaced by ST22 isolates belonging to EMRSA-15, a recently emerged pandemic lineage originating from Europe.

Results

We investigated the population structure of MRSA in Singaporean hospitals spanning three decades, using whole genome sequencing. Applying Bayesian phylogenetic methods we report that prior to the introduction of ST22, the ST239 MRSA population in Singapore originated from multiple introductions from the surrounding region; it was frequently transferred within the healthcare system resulting in a heterogeneous hospital population. Following the introduction of ST22 around the beginning of the millennium, this clone spread rapidly through Singaporean hospitals, supplanting the endemic ST239 population. Coalescent analysis revealed that although the genetic diversity of ST239 initially decreased as ST22 became more dominant, from 2007 onwards the genetic diversity of ST239 began to increase once more, which was not associated with the emergence of a sub-clone of ST239. Comparative genomic analysis of the accessory genome of the extant ST239 population identified that the Arginine Catabolic Mobile Element arose multiple times, thereby introducing genes associated with enhanced skin colonization into this population.

Conclusions

Our results clearly demonstrate that, alongside clinical practice and antibiotic usage, competition between clones also has an important role in driving the evolution of nosocomial pathogen populations.
High yield lactic acid selective oxidation into acetic acid over a Mo-V-Nb mixed oxide catalyst
Authors: Lomate Samadhan , Katryniok Benjamin , Dumeignil Franck , Paul Sébastien
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we report for the first time a one-pot reaction enabling total transformation of lactic acid to acetic acid over a Mo-V-Nb mixed oxide catalyst having an optimal atomic ratio 19:5:1. The mechanism of the reaction consists in two parallel ways leading to acetic acid: (i) oxi-dehydrogenation of lactic acid to pyruvic acid followed by decarboxylation and (ii) decarbonylation of lactic acid to acetaldehyde followed by oxidation. In the operating conditions we used, the catalyst is very active (total conversion of lactic acid) and selective towards acetic acid (100% selectivity). A 100% yield into acetic acid is hence obtained.
Chemical characterization and antioxidative activity of four 3-hydroxyl-3-methylglutaroyl (HMG)-substituted flavonoid glycosides from Graptopetalum paraguayense E. Walther
Authors: Liu Hsin-Yi , Peng Hsin-Yi , Hsu Shih-Lan , Jong Ting-Ting , Chou Su-Tze
Published: April 2015

Background

Graptopetalum paraguayense E. Walther is a popular traditional Chinese herb and possesses several health benefits. In earlier studies, we demonstrated that G. paraguayense showed no genotoxicity and showed several biological activities. However, the constituents of G. paraguayense have not been studied yet. In this present study, we isolated and identified the constituents of the leaves of G. paraguayense E. Walther.

Results

A total of seven flavonoid compounds were isolated from the methanolic extract of G. paraguayense. The four major compounds isolated were flavonoid glucoside derivatives of quercetin (1, 3) and kampferol (2, 4), each presenting a 3-hydroxyl-3-methylglutaroyl (HMG) substituent; compounds 3 and 4—the 2´´-acetyl derivatives of 1 and 2, respectively—are novel compounds isolated from nature for the first time. High-performance liquid chromatography for the quantitative analyses of the four major HMG-substituted flavonoid glycosides in G. paraguayense E. Walther were accomplished to acquire the high yields of 1–4 in the methanolic extract (4.8, 5.7, 4.3, and 2.5 mg/g, respectively). Furthermore, the antioxidant activities, including radical-scavenging, reducing power and lipid peroxidation inhibitory effects of these isolated flavonoids were also evaluated. All seven of the isolated flavonoid compounds possessed antioxdative activity.

Conclusions

In this study of the constituents of the leaves of G. paraguayense E. Walther, we isolated four major components from its methanolic extract and determined their structures to be (acetylated) HMG-substituted flavonol glycosides, which are rare in nature. All seven of the isolated compounds possessed antioxdative activity, and those flavonoid compounds may be responsible for the functional ingredients in G. paraguayense. Further investigation of their bioactivities or pharmacological activities will be continued.
Electron beam effect on biomaterials I: focusing on bone graft materials
Authors: Kim Soung Min , Fan Huan , Cho Yun Ju , Eo Mi Young , Park Ji Hyun , Kim Byung Nam , Lee Byung Cheol , Lee Suk Keun
Published: April 2015

Background

To develop biocompatible bony regeneration materials, allogenic, xenogenic and synthetic bones have been irradiated by an electron beam to change the basic structures of their inorganic materials. The optimal electron beam energy and individual dose have not been established for maximizing the bony regeneration capacity in electron beam irradiated bone.

Results

Commercial products consisting of four allogenic bones, six xenogenic bones, and six synthetic bones were used in this study. We used 1.0-MeV and 2.0 MeV linear accelerators (power: 100 KW, pressure; 115 kPa, temperature; -30 to 120°C, sensor sensitivity: 0.1-1.2 mV/kPa, generating power sensitivity: 44.75 mV/kPa, supply voltage: 50.25 V), and a microtrone with different individual irradiation doses such as 60 kGy and 120 kGy. Additional
in vitro
analyses were performed by elementary analysis using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).
In vivo
clinical, radiographic, and micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT) with bone marrow density (BMD) analysis was performed in 8- and 16-week-old Spraque-Dawley rats with calvarial defect grafts.

Conclusions

Electron beam irradiation of bony substitutes has four main effects: the cross-linking of biphasic calcium phosphate bony apatite, chain-scissioning, the induction of rheological changes, and microbiological sterilization. These novel results and conclusions are the effects of electron beam irradiation.
Seismic chronostratigraphy at reservoir scale: Statistical modeling
Authors: He Yawen , Zeng Hongliu , Kerans Charles , Hardage Bob A.
Published: April 2015

We have developed a statistical modeling method to quantify the chronostratigraphic meaning of primary seismic reflections, with an emphasis on applications at reservoir scale ([Formula: see text]). The time-correlation error (TCE) is defined as the difference between seismic events and relative geologic time (RGT). A series of statistically simulated impedance models with flat chronostratigraphic surfaces was generated from a subsurface data set to describe gradual lithofacies changes in contemporaneous strata and to account for vertical cyclicity from seed wireline logs. We converted these models to realistic seismic records using an exploding-reflector algorithm. The TCE from the seismic models was positively correlated to the lateral impedance variation, in which the TCE magnitude for a model of complex impedance variation could be quite significant. For example, a maximum, two-event, 32.5-m TCE had been observed in a small [Formula: see text] model. An increase in wavelet frequency in general reduced the TCE and improved the seismic chronostratigraphic correlation. In addition, a preliminary test confirmed that amplitude variance in the seismic model was related to lateral impedance variation and could be used to predict TCE. Therefore, certain attributes (such as amplitude variance) were useful in developing tools for generating TCE-based, hybrid, and RGT volumes from field seismic data. This strategy integrated the advantages, and avoided the disadvantages, of the present methods.
Sports cardiology: lessons from the past and perspectives for the future
Authors: Leischik Roman
Published: April 2015

The possibility of myocardial damage as a result of endurance sport has been known about since ancient times. According to a leg­end, a soldier named Pheidippides (more likely Philippides) dropped dead after run­ning from war-torn Marathon to Athens with the news of victory. Millennia later, we do not know whether he was a soldier or a courier, or whether he really ran the entire 240 km from Athens to Sparta and then back from Marathon to Athens. What is clear however, is that his death went down in history as the first documented exercise-related death and provides a tangible starting-point for the discipline of sport cardiology.

Sports cardiology today covers a broad range of areas; from patients with cardiomyopathies, coronary disease and metabolic syndrome through to fitness fans, high-performance athletes and those with physically demanding professions.

The following editorial introduces the primary topics for discussion to be included in the F1000Research channel Sports cardiology with the hope that this will evoke open, controversial and broad discourse in the form of reviews and original research papers in this important field.
Abundância e Diversidade de Coleópteros de Solo em Fragmentos de Capoeira ao Entorno da Zona Urbana do Município de Uruará-PA, Brasil.
Authors: Cajaiba Reinaldo Lucas , Da Silva Wully Barreto
Published: April 2015

A ação humana vem transformando as paisagens florestais em fragmentos isolados de remanescentes, podendo levar muitas espécies à extinção. Desta maneira se faz necessário a realização de estudos para o conhecimento e adequada caracterização da fauna de solo e, por conseguinte sua preservação. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi caracterizar a fauna de coleópteros em um fragmento florestal ao entorno da cidade de Uruará, PA. Para tanto, utilizou-se armadilhas tipo pitfall não iscadas para a coleta. O fragmento foi dividido em quatro transectos, com armadilhas instaladas ao longo da borda (T1), 50 m (T2), 100 m (T3) e 200 m (T4). Foram coletados 196 indivíduos, classificados em sete famílias e 34 espécies/morfoespécies. A família que apresentou a maior abundância foi a Curculionidae representando 56,40% da abundância, tendo o gênero Xyleborus sp. a maior dominância. Através do índice de Diversidade de Shanon, observou-se que a área de borda apresentou a menor diversidade e maior dominância (índice de Berger-Parker). Através da curva de acumulação e dos estimadores de espécies, ficou evidenciado que a área de estudo apresenta uma quantidade superior de espécies ao encontrado no presente estudo, e que pesquisas futuras são necessárias para um melhor acompanhamento das alterações que ocorrem nos fragmentos florestais com a finalidade de propor medidas de menor impacto e preservação dessa biodiversidade.

Abundance and Diversity of Ground Dwelling Beetles (Arthropoda: Insecta) in Fragments of Shrubbery Vegetation (Capoeira) in the Surroundings of the Urban Zone of Uruará City-PA, Brazil

 

Abstract. Human action has been transforming forest landscapes into isolated fragments, which may lead to the extinction of many species. Therefore, studies should be conducted to provide knowledge and the appropriate characterization of soil fauna, and, consequently, its preservation. This study was aimed to characterize the fauna of beetles in a forest fragment in the surroundings of Uruará city, PA. Unbaited pitfall traps were used for the collection of the beetles. The fragment was divided into four transects, with traps installed along the border (T1), 50 m (T2), 100 m (T3) and 200 m (T4). 196 individuals classified in seven families and 34 species/morphospecies were collected. The most abundant family was the Curculionidae accounting for 56.40% of the abundance, with gender Xyleborus sp. being the most dominant. Measurement with the Shannon Diversity Index for measurement showed lower diversity and greater dominance (Berger-Parker index) in the border area. Using species accumulation curves and estimators it became evident that the study area had a greater number of species than those found in the present study, and that further studies are needed to better monitor changes in forest fragments in order to propose measures to reduce the impact on this biodiversity and preserve it.
Social Wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Polistinae) of the Jaú National Park, Amazonas, Brazil
Authors: Somavilla Alexandre , Andena Sérgio Ricardo , Oliveira Marcio Luiz
Published: April 2015

Social wasps are common elements in Neotropics, although even elementary data about this taxon in Amazon region is partially unknown. Therefore the purpose of this work was to increase the knowledge of social wasp fauna at Jaú National Park. A total of 494 specimens of Polistinae was collected with active search, malaise trap and light trap. Forty-nine species belonging to fourteen genera were recorded. The richest genera were Polybia (14 species), Agelaia (07), Mischocyttarus (05), Apoica (04), Brachygastra (04) and Protopolybia (04); the remaining genera were represented by less than two species. The Jaccard similarity coefficient showed a higher similarity of the Jaú National Park with Ducke Reserve (Manaus, Amazonas). Four species were collected for the first time in Amazonas state Agelaia flavipennis (Ducke), Polybia affinis Du Buysson, Protopolybia nitida (Ducke) and Protopolybia sedula (de Saussure), only in Jaú National Park, showing the importance of this park for the social wasps preservation in the Amazon region.

Fauna de Vespas Sociais (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Polistinae) do Parque Nacional do Jaú, Amazonas, Brasil

Resumo. Vespas sociais são elementos comuns na região neotropical, embora até mesmo a coleta de dados elementares sobre este táxon na região amazônica ainda é parcialmente desconhecido. Por isso objetivamos contribuir para o conhecimento sobre a fauna de vespas sociais que ocorrem no Parque Nacional do Jaú. Um total de 494 indivíduos de Polistinae foi coletado através de busca ativa, armadilha Malaise e armadilha luminosa. Quarenta e nove espécies de 14 gêneros foram registradas. Polybia (14 espécies), Agelaia (07), Mischocyttarus (05), Apoica (04), Brachygastra (04) e Protopolybia (04) são os gêneros com o maior número de espécies; os demais gêneros coletados foram representados por apenas duas ou uma espécie. De acordo com o coeficiente de similaridade de Jaccard, a composição de espécies de Parque Nacional do Jaú é semelhante a Reserva Ducke (Manaus, Amazonas). Agelaia flavipennis (Ducke), Polybia affinis Du Buysson, Protopolybia nitida (Ducke) e Protopolybia sedula (de Saussure) são considerados novos registros de ocorrência para o estado do Amazonas e foram coletados, até o momento, apenas no Parque Nacional do Jaú, demonstrando a importância deste parque para a preservação de vespas sociais na região amazônica.
Infestação de Aetalion reticulatum (Linnaeus) (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Aethalionidae) em Plantas de Euterpe oleracea Martius (Arecaceae) no Estado do Acre
Authors: Santos Rodrigo Souza , Creão-Duarte Antonio José , Lunz Aureny Maria Pereira
Published: April 2015

O açaizeiro (Euterpe oleracea Martius) é uma palmeira nativa da várzea da região amazônica e pode ser indicada como a espécie de maior valor econômico do gênero. Dos seus frutos é extraída a polpa, largamente consumida, de variadas formas, pela população da região Norte do Brasil. Com a expansão da área plantada, muitos fatores podem comprometer a produção e limitar o cultivo, destacando-se a ocorrência de insetos-praga que causam prejuízos à produção. Este relato configura o primeiro registro de ocorrência da cigarrinha Aetalion reticulatum (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Aethalionidae) em plantas de E. oleracea. A ocorrência deste inseto associado ao açaizeiro, em Rio Branco, Acre, aumenta a lista de hospedeiros desta cigarrinha no Brasil e reforça a necessidade de estudos de dinâmica populacional, levantamento de inimigos naturais, níveis de dano e métodos de controle, a fim de antecipar possíveis surtos populacionais desta praga em plantios comerciais de açaí no Estado.

Infestation of Aetalion reticulatum (Linnaeus) (Hemiptera: Aethalionidae) in Plants of Euterpe oleracea Martius (Arecaceae) in Acre State, Brazil

Abstract. The açai palm (Euterpe oleracea Martius) is a native palm tree from the Amazon region floodplains and may be indicated as the most economically profitable species of this genus. Its fruit pulp is extracted and widely consumed by the population of northern Brazil in several ways. With the expansion of the planted area many factors may affect the production and limit the cultivation, highlighting the occurrence of insect pests that cause losses in production. This report presents the first occurrence of the leafhopper Aetalion reticulatum (Linnaeus) (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Aethalionidae) in E. oleracea plants. The occurrence of this insect associated with açai palms in Rio Branco, Acre, increases the list of hosts for this leafhopper in Brazil and reinforces the need for studies of population dynamics, survey of natural enemies, levels of damage and control methods in order to anticipate population outbreaks of this pest in commercial plantations of açai palms in the State.
The importance of brain tumour awareness in schools
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: April 2015

It can take a long time before brain tumours are diagnosed in children, yet early treatment is vital to ensure the best possible outcomes. Dorothy Lepkowska looks at the incidence and symptoms of brain tumours, and the importance of brain tumour awareness.
Autism spectrum disorders: Understanding the impact
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: April 2015

Children and young people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have difficulties with social interactions and insight, this often leads to peer rejection and bullying. Stephanie Thornton looks at how ASD might affect students and offers some strategies to help support them.
Recent advances in the management of postoperative nausea and vomiting
Authors: Lewis SJ , Salem G , Khater M
Published: April 2015

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common and distressing clinical problem following surgery and affects 1 in 4 patients. If not treated appropriately PONV can potentially increase mortality (e.g. through aspiration and dehydration) and morbidity, either as a result of vomiting or from the effects of vomiting. This article is educational and informative and aims to give the practitioner a concise outlook when considering the management of PONV. With regards to recent advances, ‘The Consensus Guidelines for the Management of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting’ ( Gan et al, 2014 ) are the most relevant and up-to-date guidelines. These guidelines help to identify patients who are more at risk of PONV and recommend different approaches in reducing that risk. These recommended approaches include the identification of the most effective anti-emetics, either single or combined therapies (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) for prophylaxis and prevention, and strategies for treatment of PONV when it actually occurs.
The moving and handling of bariatric patients in the perioperative environment
Authors: Brette Megan
Published: April 2015

This article demonstrates the use of a practice development idea of implementing a hover mattress, as opposed to the use of a pat slide and slide sheet, during the lateral transfer of patients in the perioperative environment.
Double gloving: personal choice or professional requirement?
Authors: Brown Claire M
Published: April 2015

The wearing of sterile gloves is a vitally important element within the perioperative environment. The function of surgical gloves is to act as a protective barrier between the patient, the surgeon and other members of the surgical team where there is contact with blood and body fluids ( Harnoss et all, 2010 ). Therefore, the suggestion of providing additional protection, such as ‘double gloving’ (i.e. the wearing of two pairs of gloves), is recommended by several theatre governing bodies ( National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 2008 ). At the moment, however, the evidence suggests that the decision to double glove is based on personal choice ( Pirie, 2010 ). Should this practice be made mandatory? Should the decision still depend on personal preference? Or should we be looking at other methods to provide protection to patients and surgical staff alike?
The 75th anniversary of the pediatric endocrinological service in Russia
Authors: Peterkova V A , Andrianova E A
Published: April 2015

This article briefly presents the history of medical care provided for the children with endocrine disorders in this country.
The discrepancies between clinical and pathologo-anatomical diagnoses in the polymorbid patients presenting with type 2 diabetes mellitus: the cost of the error
Authors: Terekhova A L , Zilov A V , Melnichenko G A , Vertkin A L
Published: April 2015

The present work was designed to elucidate the frequency and the structure of polymorbidity and analyze the discrepancies between diagnoses in the patient presenting with type 2 diabetes mellitus based on the results of comparison of clinical and morphological features. The study has demonstrated the high prevalence of polypathies; their contribution to the impaired accuracy of life-time diagnostics was estimated. It was shown that in the majority of the cases except for acute pyelonephritis the diagnostic errors had no significant influence of on the final outcome of the disease.
The association between adiponectin G276T gene polymorphic marker and abdominal obesity in a Kyrgyz population
Authors: Isakova Zh T , Talaibekova E T , Lunegova O S , Asambarva D A , Kerimkulova A S , Aldashev A A
Published: April 2015

A population of ethnic Kyrgyz was examined with a view to elucidating the relationship between the adiponectin G276T gene polymorphic locus and the development of abdominal obesity (AO). The study included 288 subjects at the age between 40 and 70 years. 139 of them (81 women and 58 men) presented with AO while 149 without obesity (62 women and 87 men) constituted the control group. The measured anthropometric parameters included arterial pressure, blood glucose, insulin, and leptin levels, blood lipid composition. Genotypes of adiponectin (AN) G276T gene polymorphism were identified by means of PCR-RFLP analysis. The relationship between the presence of the adiponectin G276T gene polymorphic and the development of abdominal obesity in the women was demonstrated. Specifically, 31% of the women with AO were carriers of T allele compared with 17% in the control group (χ2=7.89; p =0.005). The GT + TT genotype and carriage of T allele were associated with an increased risk of development of abdominal obesity (OR=2.5; 95% CI = 1.25-4.97 for the genotype and OR = 2.2; 95% CI = 1.26-4.000 for the allele). No such relationship was documented among men. The women with AO and GT+TT genotype more frequently than homozygotes presented with type 2 diabetes mellitus (64 and 37% respectively; p=0.017), hypertriglyceridemia (41 and 16.2% respectively; p=0.016), and enhanced blood glucose level (7.74±3.3 and 6.52±1.17; p=0.033). Moreover, their HOMA index was higher than in the homozygotes (3.5±1.7 and 2.63±1.24 respectively; p=0.02). It is concluded that the adiponectin G276T gene polymorphic variant in the women of Kyrgyz ethnicity is associated with abdominal obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia.
Daytime sleeping behavior observed in a Black-and-white Warbler during spring stopover
Authors: Covino Kristen M , Cooney Breanne
Published: April 2015

Nocturnally migrating birds experience loss
of sleep during the migratory period especially when
undertaking long, non-stop flights. We report a field
observation of daytime sleeping behavior in a Black-andwhite
Warbler (Mniotilta varia) during spring migration. It
is likely that this individual was compensating from sleep
loss experienced during a trans-Gulf of Mexico flight.
Only a few observations of daytime sleeping behavior
have been reported in free-living migrants and all have
been associated with long-distance flights in relation to
ecological barriers.
The use of phytotherapy in diseases caused by parasitic protozoa
Authors: Derda Monika , Hadaś Edward
Published: April 2015

The paper presents an overview of the use of natural therapeutic agents in combating parasitic diseases. Nowadays there is increasing demand for proven plant therapies, which often are found to be more effective than synthetic pharmaceuticals in chronic diseases. In many cases herbal preparations perfectly supplement the conventional treatment and at the same time do not cause side effects. On the pharmaceutical market there are many drugs of plant origin which have been applied in the treatment of parasitic diseases. However, researchers are still looking for new plants, or specific substances isolated from them, which can be used in therapy. In this paper, drugs of plant origin used in the treatment of amoebiasis, giardiasis, malaria, leishmaniasis, trypanosomiasis and acanthamoebiasis are described.
Cloning and expression of apyrase gene from Ancylostoma caninum in Escherechia coli
Authors: Qiao Ying , Pengsakul Theerakamol
Published: April 2015

Apyrase encoding metal-ions activated plasma membrane protease is present in animal and plant tissues. This enzyme can hydrolyze ADP and ATP pyrophosphate bond, resulting in AMP and free phosphate groups, and plays an important role for insects and parasites to evade host immune system. However localization and function of apyrase in the canine hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum, remains unknown. To analyze apyrase gene in A. caninum (a eukaryotic parasitic hookworm), a pair of primers was designed according to the previous EST data. The full-length cDNA of apyrase gene was amplified from A. caninum by RT-PCR. The partial cDNA of apyrase encodes 249 amino acid protein was expressed in Escherechia coli. The recombinant protein was induced to express under proper conditions and the molecular size was as expected. The recombinant protein was purified. The transcripts of apyrase in different stages of A. caninum were analyzed by the Real-time PCR assay, and Immuno-localization assays were used to research the protein expression in different stages of A. caninum
Phylogeography analysis and molecular evolution patterns of the nematode parasite Heligmosomum mixtum based on mitochondrial DNA sequences
Authors: Sakka Hela , Henttonen Heikki , Baraket Ghada , Amel Salhi-Hannachi , Michaux Johan
Published: April 2015

Mitochondrial DNA was explored to study phylogeography of the nematode parasite Heligmosomum mixtum and elucidate molecular evolution pattern of cytochrome b gene. The size of cyt b gene ranged from 511 bp to 591 bp and the average of GC contents was 28.9%. The overall transition/transversion ratio R was 5.773 indicating that the transitions are more frequent than transversion. The aligned sequences allowed identifying 54 mtDNA haplotypes among the 119 examined individuals. The genetic divergence registered among the populations of H. mixtum was low (0.3% to 1.5%). Neighbor-joining and maximum Likelihood trees evidenced a huge polytomy and unstructured phylogeographic pattern among the studied populations. The demographic analyses tend to evidence a recent and rapid expansion of H. mixtum. Our results imply a positive selection and the genetic hitchhiking effect is unlikely. Parameters performed supported scenario of sweep selection and recent expansion of H.mixtum populations. Both positive selection and demographic histories have jointly contributed to the observed patterns of nucleotide diversity and haplotypes structure. The comparison of the phylogeographical pattern of H. mixtum with the one of its most common rodent host M. glareolus, confirmed a strong incongruence between the two species. These results strongly suggest that the parasite would not be specific to M. glareolus and that it would switch easily from one rodent species to another. The mitochondrial diversity seems to be unstructured with any biogeographic repartition of the variability and that the genetic structure of H. mixtum is probably associated with weak host specificity.
New species of Oswaldofilaria (Nematoda; Filarioidea; Onchocercidae) and other helminths in Acanthosaura cardamomensis (Sauria; Agamidae) from Indochina Peninsula
Authors: Bursey Charles R. , Goldberg Stephen R. , Grismer Lee L.
Published: April 2015

Oswaldofilaria acanthosauri sp. nov. from the body cavity of the Cardamom Mountain horned agamid, Acanthosaura cardamomensis (Sauria: Agamidae), collected in Pursat Province, Cambodia is described. Of the 14 species assigned to Oswaldofilaria, O. acanthosauri sp. nov. is most similar to those species with spicular ratio of less than 2, namely, O. brevicaudata and O. chlamydosauri. Oswaldofilaria acanthosauri sp. nov. is easily separated from these 2 species in that O. brevicaudata is a South American species and in O. chlamydosauri the distal ends of the spicules are pointed not blunt. Mature individuals of 2 additional species of Nematoda, Meteterakis singaporensis and Orneoascaris sandoshami, as well as larvae assignable to Ascariidae were found. Acanthosaura cardamomensis represents a new host record for Meteterakis singaporensis, Orneoascaris sandoshami and Ascariidae (larvae).
The pathogenic role of Blastocystis isolated from patients with irritable bowel syndrome and colitis from Iasi, Romania
Authors: Matiut Doina S. , Hritcu Lucian
Published: April 2015

Blastocystis is a common parasite and regarded as one of the etiologic agents of irritable bowel syndrome, colitis and chronic diarrhea. Our study was undertaken in order to identify different subtypes of Blastocystis isolated in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and colitis, as well as with chronic diarrhea and to evaluate their pathogenic potential. Seventy-three subjects (10 asymptomatic infected subjects, 49 subjects harboring Blastocystis or associated with other etiologic agents like bacteria, yeasts, protozoa, helminthes and 14 subjects with unknown etiologic agents) were investigated by in vitro parasitological and bacteriological stool samples followed by PCR subtyping of Blastocystis using STS primers, immunological markers (total serum IgA and IgE antibody levels), Helicobacter pylori antigen rapid test and fecal occult blood test. Also, among 49 subjects, there were 12 subjects harboring Blastocystis as the single etiologic agent. Subtyping proved that only three subtypes of Blastocystis were identified as following: subtype II (66.66%) in single infected subjects, subtype I (16.66%) in mixed infection with subtype II and subtype IV (8.33%) in single infected subjects. Total serum IgA and IgE antibody levels were in normal range. Subtype II was the most frequent subtype followed by subtype I and subtype IV of Blastocystis isolates in patients with irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, and chronic diarrhea as well as in asymptomatic infected group. Our results suggest that the severity of clinical manifestations depend on factors involving the host and possible parasitic density and not necessarily by isolated subtype.
New morphological data and first description of gravid female of Cucullanus bagre Petter, 1974 (Seuratoidea: Cucullanidae) from Bagre bagre (Linnaeus, 1766) (Siluriformes: Ariidae) off Brazil
Authors: Pereira Felipe B. , Vieira Fabiano M. , Luque José L.
Published: April 2015

Cucullanus bagre Petter, 1974 (Cucullanidae) is redescribed based on the examination of newly collected material and the revaluation of type specimens, using light and for the first time scanning electron microscopy. Parasite specimens were collected from the intestine of the coco sea catfish Bagre bagre (Linnaeus) (Ariidae) off the South Atlantic coast, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Detailed morphological analysis revealed the presence of an unpaired papilla just anterior to the cloacal protrusion in male, that was overlooked in the original description. Descriptions of the adult female and eggs are provided for the first time; these gravid specimens have the general morphometry quite similar to that of juveniles. Additionally, detailed description and illustration of sclerotized plates present on the oesophastome is provided. The far posterior location of the excretory pore with thick-walled excretory duct, the conspicuous protrusions present on both anal and cloacal regions and the number and arrangement of caudal papillae in males are considered to be important diagnostic features for C. bagre. All the specimens from type material were together in one vial and not separated in two vials as stated in the original description, making it impossible to determine which is the holotype, allotype or paratypes. This is the first report of C. bagre in Brazil, which expands its geographical distribution to South Atlantic waters.
Effect of structurally related flavonoids from Zuccagnia punctata Cav. on Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: D’Almeida Romina E. , Alberto María R. , Morgan Phillip , Sedensky Margaret , Isla María I.
Published: April 2015

Zuccagnia punctata Cav. (Fabaceae), commonly called jarilla macho or pus-pus, is being used in traditional medicine as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and to relieve muscle and bone pain. The aim of this work was to study the anthelmintic effects of three structurally related flavonoids present in aerial parts of Z. punctata Cav. The biological activity of the flavonoids 7-hydroxyflavanone (HF), 3,7-dihydroxyflavone (DHF) and 2´,4´-dihydroxychalcone (DHC) was examined in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Our results showed that among the assayed flavonoids, only DHC showed an anthelmintic effect and alteration of egg hatching and larval development processes in C. elegans. DHC was able to kill 50% of adult nematodes at a concentration of 17 μg/mL. The effect on larval development was observed after 48 h in the presence of 25 and 50 μg/mL DHC, where 33.4 and 73.4% of nematodes remained in the L3 stage or younger. New therapeutic drugs with good efficacy against drug-resistant nematodes are urgently needed. Therefore, DHC, a natural compound present in Z. punctata, is proposed as a potential anthelmintic drug.