bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperthyroid monkeys: a nonhuman primate model of experimental Graves' disease
Authors: Wang Y , Wu L P , Fu J , Lv H J , Guan X Y , Xu L , Chen P , Gao C Q , Hou P , Ji M J , Shi B Y
Published: September 2013

Graves' disease (GD) is a common organ-specific autoimmune disease with the prevalence between 0.5 and 2% in women. Several lines of evidence indicate that the shed A-subunit rather than the full-length thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) is the autoantigen that triggers autoimmunity and leads to hyperthyroidism. We have for the first time induced GD in female rhesus monkeys, which exhibit greater similarity to patients with GD than previous rodent models. After final immunization, the monkeys injected with adenovirus expressing the A-subunit of TSHR (A-sub-Ad) showed some characteristics of GD. When compared with controls, all the test monkeys had significantly higher TSHR antibody levels, half of them had increased total thyroxine (T4) and free T4, and 50% developed goiter. To better understand the underlying mechanisms, quantitative studies on subpopulations of CD4+T helper cells were carried out. The data indicated that this GD model involved a mixed Th1 and Th2 response. Declined Treg proportions and increased Th17:Treg ratio are also observed. Our rhesus monkey model successfully mimicked GD in humans in many aspects. It would be a useful tool for furthering our understanding of the pathogenesis of GD and would potentially shorten the distance toward the prevention and treatment of this disease in human.
Tree mortality, recruitment and growth in a bamboo dominated forest fragment in southwestern Amazonia, Brazil
Authors: Medeiros Herison , Castro Wendeson , Salimon Cleber Ibraim , Silva Izaias Brasil da , Silveira Marcos
Published: September 2013

Forest fragmentation affects the structure and dynamics of plant communities, leading to biodiversity loss in forest remnants. In this paper we show that in a bamboo (Guadua weberbaueri Pilger) dominated forest fragment in southwestern Amazonia edge effect may be confounded by bamboo effect, which also occur inside the forest. We measured growth, mortality and, recruitment rate of trees with DBH ≥ 10 cm, in a fragment of bamboo dominated open forest in southwestern Amazonia, state of Acre, Brazil, in 15 plots at the forest edge and 15 plots inside the forest fragment, 500 m away from the border. Time interval between censuses was 1.8 years. The average diameter growth rate differed significantly between edge (3.82 ± 0.10 mm a-1) and interior (2.39 ± 0.18 mm a-1); but there were no differences in annual mortality rate (edge = 3.8 ± 2.5 % a-1 CV = 65.7%; interior = 3.6 ± 2.6% a-1 CV = 72.2%) or in annual recruitment rate (edge = 7.1 ± 3.2% a-1 CV = 45%; interior = 8.9 ± 7.9% a-1 CV = 88.7%). Diameter growth rate, particularly of pioneer and fast-growing trees, is favored by the environmental conditions of the edge, where bamboo abundance is higher. However, the absence of an edge effect on mortality and recruitment could be due to the particular dynamics of bamboo patches, which could be mimicking forest edges and therefore masking possible edge effect in this fragment. We speculate that the mortality and recruitment patterns in fragmented forests of southwestern Amazonia is different from other areas in Amazonia and that bamboo is one of the key controllers of successional processes in these fragments.
A search for predators and food selectivity of two native species of Hydra (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa) from Brazil
Authors: Massaro Fernanda Cristina , Negreiros Natalia Felix , Rocha Odete
Published: September 2013

The Hydra is the most common representative of freshwater cnidarians. In general, it is found in freshwaters on every continent, with the exception of Antarctica. The aim of the present study is to gather biological and ecological data on aspects of two species of Hydra native to Brazil: Hydra viridissima and Hydra salmacidis. Predation and food selectivity experiments were performed to assess the possible predators and the prey preferences, respectively, of the two species. The results indicate that the two species of Hydra were not consumed by any of the predators that were tested, which are typical predators of invertebrates in freshwater: nymphs of Odonata Anisoptera and the phantom midge larvae of Chaoborus sp. (Insecta), adults of Copepoda Cyclopoida (Crustacea) and the small fish Poecilia reticulata. It was observed that the smaller Hydra, H. viridissima, positively selected the nauplii and copepodites of calanoid copepods and small cladocerans and rejected large prey, such as the adults of calanoid copepods and ostracods. The larger H. salmacidis, besides the nauplii and copepodites of the calanoid copepods and small cladocerans, also positively selected the large adults of the calanoid copepods. It can be concluded that both H. viridissima and H. salmacidis are most likely preyed on little or not preyed on at all in many freshwater bodies, as they are top predators in the food chain. At the same time, they are efficient predators, and a positive relationship was observed between the prey size and the Hydra species size. Food selectivity was related to prey size as well as other prey characteristics, such as carapace thickness and swimming efficiency.
Mollusc assemblage in an urban bay nearby a marine extractive reserve, Florianópolis - SC, Brazil
Authors: Gandara-Martins Ana Luiza , Almeida Tito Cesar Marques de
Published: September 2013

have described the spatio-temporal variation of mollusc assemblage in a coastal urban bay near a Marine Extractive Reserve (RESEX), where several human activities are performed. Uni and multivariate analyses were conducted considering spatial (six sampling stations) and temporal scale (30 surveys from 2002 to 2008) and two associations were recognized. We identified 48 species from 28 families belonging to four classes: Bivalvia, Gastropoda, Polyplacophora, and Scaphopoda. The Sand Tidal Flat association had a contribution of more than 90% of Anomalocardia brasiliana (Gmelin, 1791) as well as a higher diversity and similarity among surveys. The Mud Bottom association had a lower similarity among surveys due to the low abundance of species. The feeding habits of molluscs were different between the associations. The climate and the fauna followed a seasonal pattern, with low variance over years. The highest diversity was detected at the end of a highway construction, indicating a rapid recolonization, probably due to the proximity to a protected area. We highlight the need to the conservation of sand tidal flats, mostly because of their high diversity, location in a transitional zone between marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems (connected with mangrove forests), in addition to the economic importance, and anthropogenic pressure.
A new genus and species of Lasiopteridi (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) associated with Myrciaria delicatula (Myrtaceae) from Brazil, with identification keys of tribes and unplaced genera
Authors: Rodrigues Alene Ramos , Maia Valéria Cid , Wenzel Cristina Rodrigues , Mendonça Junior Milton de Souza
Published: September 2013

Fernandesia meridionalis Rodrigues & Maia, a new genus and species of Cecidomyiidae associated with Myrciaria delicatula O. Berg (Myrtaceae) is described and illustrated (male, female, pupa, and larva) based on material from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The new genus belongs to Lasiopteridi, but it cannot be placed to tribe. A key to the tribes of Lasiopteridi and one to the unplaced genera of Neotropical Lasiopteridi are given.
Predation effects of Melanoides tuberculatus Müller 1774) on periphytic biofilm colonization: an experimental approach
Authors: Vasconcelos Janiele França , Barbosa José Etham de Lucena , Azevêdo Evaldo de Lira , Azevêdo Daniele Jovem da Silva , Anacleto Maria José Pinheiro
Published: September 2013

The present study evaluated the predation effects of the gastropod Melanoides tuberculatus on the taxa richness and density of the periphyton community. A laboratory experiment was conducted with two treatments: control (without M. tuberculatus) and with M. tuberculatus, each treatment being replicated four times. For periphyton colonization, glass slides were placed in 3.5 L of water from the environment of the gastropods. The analysis of species richness and density of the periphyton community on these artificial substrates showed significant differences (p <0.05) between treatments. In the treatment with M. tuberculatus, taxa richness and density were lower, with a predominance of Chantrasia macrospora in the last days of the experiment. It follows that predation by M. tuberculatus destabilizes the course of periphyton colonization, suggesting the possibility of disruption of natural food chains, however, more studies are needed in this perspectives.
Aves do Parque Estadual Carlos Botelho – SP
Authors: Antunes Alexsander Zamorano , Silva Bruna Gonçalves da , Matsukuma Ciro Koiti , Eston Marilda Rapp de , Santos Ana Maria Rodrigues dos
Published: September 2013

O inventário da biodiversidade nas unidades de proteção integral implantadas em remanescentes da Mata Atlântica, além de ampliar o conhecimento sobre a distribuição das espécies, pode contribuir para ações de monitoramento e manejo que aprimorem a conservação dos ecossistemas. Os objetivos desse trabalho foram caracterizar as assembleias de aves do Parque Estadual Carlos Botelho, sudeste do estado de São Paulo, quanto à composição de espécies, abundância relativa e associação com fitofisionomias locais. A amostragem foi realizada entre abril de 2006 e dezembro de 2009 pelo método de trajetos de distância ilimitada, totalizando 1000 horas de esforço amostral. Foram registradas 331 espécies, predominando formas florestais residentes e com abundância relativa inferior a 100 detecções. Vinte e cinco espécies estão ameaçadas de extinção no estado de São Paulo.
Diversidade e riqueza de formigas (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) em remanescentes de Mata Atlântica na Bacia Hidrográfica do Alto Tietê, SP
Authors: Suguituru Silvia Sayuri , Souza Débora Rodrigues de , Munhae Catarina de Bortoli , Pacheco Renata , Morini Maria Santina de Castro
Published: September 2013

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a diversidade, composição e a similaridade da fauna de formigas entre sete remanescentes de Floresta Ombrófila Densa da Bacia Hidrográfica do Alto Tietê. Dois desses remanescentes pertencem à Unidades de Conservação, quatro estão sob proteção e um fragmento pertence à propriedade particular. Em cada área foram coletadas 50 m2 de serapilheira, que foram submetidas à extratores do tipo mini-Winkler, onde permaneceram por 48 h. Todas as coletas ocorreram no período chuvoso. No total foram registradas 11 subfamílias, 44 gêneros e 158 morfoespécies/espécies de formigas. As espécies mais frequentes em todas as áreas foram Pheidole sp.7, Solenopsis sp.1, Hypoponera sp.1 e Strumigenys denticulate. O maior valor de diversidade α foi registrado na unidade de conservação com composição florística de Mata Atlântica; o menor valor em florestas com influência antrópica. A variação na composição de espécies entre as áreas indica a substituição de espécies entre os remanescentes de Floresta Ombrófila Densa da Bacia Hidrográfica do Alto Tietê, o que sugere a importância da preservação dessas áreas para a conservação da diversidade regional da fauna de formigas.
Morcegos em área de Floresta Montana, Visconde de Mauá, Resende, Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Luz Júlia Lins , Costa Luciana de Moraes , Jordão-Nogueira Tássia , Esbérard Carlos Eduardo Lustosa , Bergallo Helena de Godoy
Published: September 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar uma lista de morcegos da região de Visconde de Mauá, município de Resende, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, em área de Floresta Ombrófila Densa Montana, localizada acima de 1.300 m de altitude. Foram realizadas sete noites de captura, em novembro de 2005, com amostragens em áreas de voo e forrageio e em abrigos. O total de 13 espécies foi obtido (10 Phyllostomidae, duas Vespertilionidae e uma Molossidae). Dessas, sete espécies são frugívoras, duas nectarívoras, uma hematófaga e três insetívoras. A espécie dominante foi Sturnira lilium com 79,6% das capturas.
Histerídeos (Staphyliniformia: Coleoptera: Histeridae) dos Campos Gerais, Paraná, Brasil
Authors: Leivas Fernando Willyan Trevisan , Grossi Paschoal Coelho , Almeida Lúcia Massutti
Published: September 2013

Histeridae é um grupo de besouros com morfologia diversificada, conhecidos como predadores generalistas e que ocorrem em uma ampla variedade de habitats. O objetivo deste trabalho foi apresentar uma primeira listagem dos táxons de Histeridae ocorrentes na região dos Campos Gerais (Parques Estaduais de Vila Velha, do Cerrado, e do Cânion Guartelá) e fornecer informações sobre as espécies das Unidades de Conservação do Estado do Paraná. Também foram apresentados os métodos apropriados para coleta do grupo. Os Histeridae dos Campos Gerais estão, até o momento, representados por 29 espécies de oito gêneros: Haeteriinae sp. (1 sp.), Coelister Bickhardt, 1917 (1 sp.), Epierus Erichson, 1834 (1 sp.), Euspilotus Lewis, 1907 (6 spp.), Hister Linnaeus, 1758 (2 spp.), Omalodes Dejean, 1833 (3 spp.), OperclipygusMarseul, 1870 (6 spp.) e Phelister Marseul, 1854 (9 spp.). Dois gêneros (Coelister e Epierus) e quatro espécies (Coelister sp., Phelister brevistrius Marseul, 1854, Phelister panamensisLeConte, 1859 e Phelister pumilus (Erichson, 1834)) foram registrados pela primeira vez para o Estado do Paraná. Cinco gêneros (Coelister, Epierus, Euspilotus, Hister e Phelister) e cinco espécies (Coelister sp., Omalodes laceratus Marseul, 1853, Phelister brevistrius, Phelister panamensisLeConte, 1859 e Phelister pumilus (Erichson, 1834)) foram registrados pela primeira vez para os Campos Gerais. A fauna de Histeridae se mostrou diversa quando comparada a levantamentos em outras formações vegetacionais. Entretanto, a maioria das espécies não demonstra uma seleção de hábitat para áreas abertas. Considerando a perda de habitat ocorrida nos Campos Gerais, salienta-se a importância dos levantamentos faunísticos através de métodos apropriados e listagens regionais de Coleoptera para o conhecimento da biodiversidade.
Estrutura da ictiofauna do rio Bonito, bacia hidrográfica do rio Ivaí, sistema alto rio Paraná, Brasil
Authors: Viana Douglas , Zawadzki Cláudio Henrique , Oliveira Edson Fontes de , Vogel Huilquer Francisco , Graça Weferson Júnio da
Published: September 2013

A diversidade da ictiofauna da bacia do rio Ivaí é altamente subestimada. O presente estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar a ictiofauna do rio Bonito, um tributário do rio Ivaí, bacia do alto rio Paraná, quanto à riqueza, diversidade e constância de espécies. Foram estabelecidos três locais de amostragem ao longo do gradiente longitudinal do rio: cabeceira, trecho médio e região de desembocadura próxima ao rio Ivaí. Três incursões de coleta foram feitas em cada unidade utilizando redes de espera de diferentes malhas, tarrafas e covos. A ictiofauna foi composta por 23 espécies, divididas em nove famílias e três ordens. Entre as espécies coletadas, três delas são possíveis novos registros para o alto rio Paraná e 12 para a bacia do rio Ivaí. A maior riqueza foi registrada no trecho inferior, onde foram encontradas 20 espécies, o qual também apresentou maior diversidade e menor dominância de espécies. No trecho médio do rio foram coletadas sete espécies e no trecho superior apenas uma. No baixo rio Bonito a maioria das espécies foram acessórias e no trecho médio cinco foram constantes e apenas uma acessória. O trecho médio apresentou maior dominância de espécies, com destaque para Hypostomus aff. ancistroides. O gradiente altitudinal foi um importante fator estruturador da assembleia de peixes do rio Bonito, delimitando as assembleias ao longo do gradiente longitudinal.
A commented list of Scaphopoda (Mollusca) found along the Brazilian coast, with two new synonymies in the genus Gadila Gray, 1847
Authors: Souza Leonardo Santos de , Araújo Isabella Campos Vieira , Caetano Carlos Henrique Soares
Published: September 2013

This review aims to present an updated checklist of scaphopods, based mainly on literature database. There is a total of 40 species (six families) for Brazil, including information about the distribution and bathymetric range of each taxon. We propose two synonyms with the aid of morphometry of the shell, for the genus Gadila: G. longa as junior synonym of G. elongata and G. robusta as junior synonym of G. pandionis.
Bats in forest remnants of the Cerrado savanna of eastern Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: Sousa Ricardo Firmino de , Venere Paulo Cesar , Faria Karina de Cassia
Published: September 2013

In the state of Mato Grosso, studies aiming to investigate the diversity and richness of bats are still scarce. In the present study, the chiropteran fauna of eastern Mato Grosso (Brazil) was investigated at four sites representing the Cerrado savanna biome with different degrees of anthropogenic impact, in the municipality of Nova Xavantina. Surveys were conducted between January and December, 2010, with a total of 48 nights of mist-netting. A total of 423 bats were captured, representing 25 species distributed in five families. A greater abundance of individuals was recorded at all sites during the rainy season, with considerable variation being observed over the course of the year in species richness and composition, and the abundance of bats. Species richness and bat abundance were higher in the better preserved habitats in comparison with the impacted areas. The timing of foraging activities appeared to vary among the specimens and there was a progressive increase in activity until 19:30 h, with a marked decline after 22:30 h. The ecological diversity (Shannon-Wiener index) of the bat community within the study area was H′ = 2.37.
Thrips species (Insecta: Thysanoptera) associated to Fabaceae of agricultural importance in Cerrado and Amazon-Caatinga ecotone from Brazilian Mid-North
Authors: Lima Élison Fabrício Bezerra , Monteiro Renata Chiarini , Zucchi Roberto Antonio
Published: September 2013

Little is known about the Thysanoptera fauna from Brazilian Mid-North. In spite of being a region with at least three biomes and some ecotones, the studies on this insect order in the region are related to associations to a few cultivated plant species. On Fabaceae, plant family with the second largest number of records of thrips species associated in Brazil and huge economic importance for Mid-North, there are thrips records only on cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.). Due to the lack of knowledge on the Thysanoptera fauna in such a diverse area and the importance of crops of this family in the region, this research aimed to survey the thrips species associated to Fabaceae of agricultural importance in areas of Cerrado and Amazon-Caatinga ecotone in Brazilian Mid-North, as well as provide basic biological information about damage and hosts. Also, comparison between the Thysanoptera fauna of fabaceous crops in the region and the rest of the Country and a key to species are presented. Thrips were collected on six fabaceous crops in four municipalities in the state of Maranhão and in one municipality in the state of Piauí. Eight thrips species were identified: Caliothrips phaseoli (Pergande, 1895), Frankliniella brevicaulis Hood, 1937, F. gardeniae Moulton, 1948, F. insularis (Franklin, 1908), F. schultzei (Trybom, 1910), F. tritici (Fitch, 1855), Haplothrips gowdeyi (Franklin, 1908) and Salpingothrips minimus Hood, 1935. Two other unidentified species were collected: Plesiothrips sp. and Scolothrips sp. Except for F. schultzei, the thrips species surveyed in Maranhão are first records in the state, and F. gardeniae is first record in the state of Piauí. The first records of thrips on Phaseolus lunatus L. in Brazil were established. Some species known as pests of Fabaceae mostly in southern and southeastern Brazil were not found in Mid-North. Voucher-specimens are deposited at the Entomological Collection of the Department of Entomology and Acarology, Escola Superior de Agricultura “Luiz de Queiroz”, Universidade de São Paulo (ESALQ/USP).
Association among wasps' colonies, ants and birds in Central Amazonian
Authors: Somavilla Alexandre , Fernandes Itanna Oliveira , Oliveira Marcio Luiz de , Silveira Orlando Tobias
Published: September 2013

Some neotropical vespids are known for their association with other insects and vertebrate taxa. In the present study about the wasp diversity in the Ducke Reserve, Manaus, Brazil five active colonies and an abandoned one of Polybia rejecta, and one active colony of Synoeca virginea were found associated with ant nests of Azteca aff. chartifex (Formicidae). A single colony of Polybia rejecta was found beside nests of Cacicus cela (Passeriformes: Icteridae). These associations appear to be related both to protection of the wasps nests by the ants and the protection of the ants nests by the wasps, as well as to protection of the bird nests by the wasps. The wasps take advantage of the tolerance of the ants, nesting near their colonies to obtain protection, so escaping attack by other ant species that feed on the immature wasps. Birds in turn take advantage of protection by these wasps against potential predators. This work adds new data to the study of associations of wasp species found in Central Brazilian Amazon, with descriptions of observed behaviors and photographs of such associations.
Flagging a species as threatened: the case of Eptesicus taddeii, an endemic bat from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Bernard Enrico , Nascimento Jorge Luiz do , Aguiar Ludmilla Moura de Souza
Published: September 2013

The IUCN Red List is an important conservation tool. Although its criteria are used worldwide, in most cases the classification process per se is restricted to a group of experts with restricted or no participation of the general public. This may raise concerns from final Red List users, which, without knowing the data or procedures adopted by the experts, may argue on the outcomes, final classification adopted, or the overall use of the lists. IUCN recommends that all assessments must be backed up by data and justifications, making them as accurate and transparent as possible. We describe here the assessment of Eptesicus taddeii, a bat species endemic to the southern Atlantic Forest of Brazil, indicating how and why the species was flagged as Vulnerable - B2ab(i, ii, iii) during its national evaluation.
Length-weight relationships of the ichthyofauna associated with the Brazilian sardine, Sardinella brasiliensis, on the Southeastern Brazilian Bight (22°S-29°S) between 2008 and 2010
Authors: Vaz-dos-Santos André Martins , Rossi-Wongtschowski Carmen Lúcia Del Bianco
Published: September 2013

In this study, estimates of length-weight relationships are presented for twenty-four species caught in association with the Brazilian sardine, Sardinella brasiliensis, during four acoustics surveys carried out under the Program ECOSAR (Prospecting and evaluation of biomass of the stock of Brazilian sardine on the southeast coast by acoustic methods), which was to evaluate the biomass of species that were caught. The model parameters were estimated with the nonlinear iterative method of least squares. The value of the coefficient of determination (r2) and residual analysis were employed to verify the appropriateness of fit. The coefficient b values were tested with respect to isometry (β=3) using a tα1,0.05 test. The values of coefficient b ranged from 2.377 to 3.538. There is a tendency for positive allometry (b) in the sampled ichythyocenose.
Metacercariae of Eumegacetes medioximus (Digenea: Eumegacetidae) in larvae of Odonata from Brazil
Authors: Pinto Hudson Alves , Melo Alan Lane de
Published: September 2013

During studies on the participation of larval Odonata in the life cycle of trematodes carried out at the Pampulha reservoir, Belo Horizonte, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, between May and September 2011, dragonfly larvae, Orthemis discolor (Burmeister, 1839) and Perithemis mooma Kirby, 1889, were found harboring metacercariae identified as Eumegacetes medioximusBraun, 1901. This is the first report and morphological description of metacercariae of E. medioximus in the Neotropical region.
Collapse mechanism and robustness of precast segmental bridges
Authors: Au Francis T. K. , Leung Cliff C. Y. , Kwan Albert K. H.
Published: September 2013

In the construction of multi-span precast concrete segmental bridges, in situ stitches are often cast to connect together adjacent cantilevers assembled from precast segments. Since the stitches are often lightly reinforced, the robustness of a segmental bridge could be adversely affected by the capability of the stitches to resist any large variations in moment during extreme events. While most previous studies have focused on methods to measure robustness, there has been little systematic examination of the effects of strength and behaviour of structural components on robustness of structures. As prestressed concrete is relatively non-ductile, finite-element analyses are carried out taking into account the full-range non-linear moment–curvature relationship to examine the formation of plastic hinges and possible collapse mechanisms. Three classes have been proposed for the evaluation of robustness, namely superb, adequate and inadequate. Recommendations to achieve good robustness are also put forward.
Reducing heave of expansive clay beds through granular pile–anchor groups
Authors: Phanikumar B. R. , Muthukumar M.
Published: September 2013

The granular pile-anchor (GPA) foundation system, a more recent technique, has also been found to be quite successful in controlling heave of expansive clay beds. This paper presents experimental data obtained from laboratory-scale heave tests conducted on an unreinforced expansive clay bed (n = 0) and expansive clay beds reinforced by a single GPA (n = 1), twin GPAs (n = 2) and a group of GPAs laid in equilateral triangular pattern (n = 3). The thickness of all the test clay beds was 200 mm. Heave was monitored at different depths of clay beds as they were inundated. Ground heave (or surface heave) was also monitored at different radial distances (r) from the centre of the test tank. The unreinforced clay bed and the GPA-reinforced clay beds were identical with regard to thickness (H), placement water content (w%) and dry density (γd). Heave decreased at all depths of the clay beds as the number of the GPAs (n) increased. Furthermore, heave decreased with increasing depth (z) from the top of the clay beds. Heave was measured to be 56·5, 48, 28·5 and 24 mm at the top of the clay bed, respectively, for n = 0 (unreinforced expansive clay bed), n = 1, 2 and 3, indicating increased resistance to heave with increasing number of GPAs. The factor of safety of the GPA foundation system against uplift also increased with increasing number of GPAs.
A web application system for structural modal identification
Authors: Cury Alexandre , Barbosa Flávio
Published: September 2013

The increasing development of algorithms for the assessment of structural modal characteristics stems from continuous improvement in vibration tests and computational processing capabilities. However, the identification process of deformable dynamic systems occasionally demands high computational costs. Nevertheless, with the increasing expansion of high-speed broadband internet, the concept of web application becomes a prevailing alternative. This paper presents the free web application Midas (Modal Identification of Deformable Systems), which is implemented in Java and applied to structural modal identification. This procedure is performed via the internet using data gathered from dynamic measurements. Available technologies and web development tools such as JavaServer Pages and JavaServer Faces are used to implement Midas. For the dynamic treatment of the vibration data, two identification techniques are used – the random decrement method and the Ibrahim time domain method. In order to evaluate the developed web application, two experimental applications are explored.
Probabilistic seismic risk evaluation of reinforced concrete buildings
Authors: Vargas Yeudy F. , Barbat Alex H. , Pujades Lluis G. , Hurtado Jorge E.
Published: September 2013

The main objective of this article is to propose a simplified methodology to assess the expected seismic damage in reinforced concrete buildings from a probabilistic point of view by using Monte Carlo simulation. In order to do so, the seismic behaviour of the building was studied by using random capacity obtained by considering the mechanical properties of the materials as random variables. From the capacity curves, the damage states and fragility curves can be obtained, and curves describing the expected seismic damage to the structure as a function of a seismic hazard characteristic can be developed. The latter can be calculated using the capacity spectrum and the demand spectrum according to the methodology proposed by the Risk-UE project. In order to define the seismic demand as a random variable, a set of real accelerograms were obtained from European and Spanish databases in such a way that the mean of their elastic response spectra was similar to an elastic response spectrum selected from Eurocode 8. In order to combine the uncertainties associated with the seismic action and the mechanical properties of materials, two procedures are considered to obtain functions relating the peak ground acceleration to the maximum spectral displacements. The first method is based on a series of non-linear dynamic analyses, while the second is based on the well-known ATC-40 procedure called equal displacement approximation. After applying both procedures, the probability density functions of the maximum displacement at the roof of the building are gathered and compared. The expected structural damage is finally obtained by replacing the spectral displacement calculated using ATC-40 and the incremental dynamic procedure. In the damage functions, the results obtained from incremental static and dynamic analyses are compared and discussed from a probabilistic point of view.
Existing concrete textures: their effect on adhesion with fibre concrete overlay
Authors: Tayeh Bassam A. , Abu Bakar Badorul H. , Megat Johari Megat A. , Ratnam Mani M.
Published: September 2013

This paper quantifies the roughness parameters of existing normal concrete substrate surfaces and evaluates their effect on adhesion strength with ultra-high-performance fibre concrete overlay. Three types of substrate surface textures are adopted: as-cast texture as control, wire-brushed texture and sand-blasted texture. The roughness profile of these substrate surfaces is assessed using an Alicona Infinite Focus device. Adhesion strength is quantified at 3, 7, 28 and 180 days based on the results of the pull-off test, splitting cylinder tensile test and slant shear test. The short- and long-term results of the splitting cylinder tensile and slant shear tests demonstrate that the surface texture profiles of the existing concrete substrate have an important effect on the adhesion strength between existing concrete and ultra-high-performance fibre concrete overlay. The behaviour of bonded ultra-high-performance fibre concrete/existing concrete with sand-blasted texture closely resembles that of monolithic normal samples under splitting cylinder and slant shear tests. The short- and long-term results of the pull-off test prove that failure occurs in the existing concrete, regardless of the type of existing concrete surface texture. A very good polynomial correlation (R2 > 80%) is observed between the average roughness parameter (Ra) of existing concrete textures and results of the splitting cylinder tensile and slant shear tests.
Circulation constrains the evolution of larval development modes and life histories in the coastal ocean
Authors: Pringle James M. , Byers James E. , Pappalardo Paula , Wares John P. , Marshall Dustin
Published: September 2013

The evolutionary pressures that drive long larval planktonic durations in some coastal marine organisms, while allowing direct development in others, have been vigorously debated. We introduce into the argument the asymmetric dispersal of larvae by coastal currents and find that the strength of the currents helps determine which dispersal strategies are evolutionarily stable. In a spatially and temporally uniform coastal ocean of finite extent, direct development is always evolutionarily stable. For passively drifting larvae, long planktonic durations are stable when the ratio of mean to fluctuating currents is small and the rate at which larvae increase in size in the plankton is greater than the mortality rate (both in units of per time). However, larval behavior that reduces downstream larval dispersal for a given time in plankton will be selected for, consistent with widespread observations of behaviors that reduce dispersal of marine larvae. Larvae with long planktonic durations are shown to be favored not for the additional dispersal they allow, but for the additional fecundity that larval feeding in the plankton enables.

We analyzed the spatial distribution of larval life histories in a large database of coastal marine benthic invertebrates and documented a link between ocean circulation and the frequency of planktotrophy in the coastal ocean. The spatial variation in the frequency of species with planktotrophic larvae is largely consistent with our theory; increases in mean currents lead to a decrease in the fraction of species with planktotrophic larvae over a broad range of temperatures.
Influence of Gypsum and Wetting Agent on Sand‐Based Putting Greens Irrigated with Recycled Wastewater
Authors: Chang Zhihui , Jia Zhefeng , Liu Jufang , Li Deying
Published: September 2013

Recycled wastewater (RW) is a source of irrigation for golf courses in many parts of the world. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of gypsum and wetting agent applications on the turfgrass quality, clipping yield, root zone chemical and physical properties, and leachate of a sand‐based putting green irrigated with secondary and tertiary RW. Our results showed that gypsum amendment produced better turfgrass quality under summer heat stress than the wetting agent and the control. Soil water infiltration was impeded by secondary and tertiary RW but was improved by the gypsum treatments. When compared with topdressing with straight sand, the wetting agent application did not improve turfgrass quality or soil properties when irrigated with RW. Monthly applications of a wetting agent resulted in lower water infiltration rates, but the values remained within the U.S. Golf Association recommendations for putting green construction. Golf course superintendents are encouraged to use gypsum when managing sand‐based putting greens with RW as the primary source of irrigation water.
A Canadian Ethanol Feedstock Study to Benchmark the Relative Performance of Triticale: I. Agronomics
Authors: Beres Brian , Pozniak Curtis , Eudes Francois , Graf Robert , Randhawa Harpinder , Salmon Don , McLeod Grant , Dion Yves , Irvine Byron , Voldeng Harvey , Martin Richard , Pageau Denis , Comeau Andre , DePauw Ronald , Phelps Sherrilyn , Spaner Dean
Published: September 2013

A need has been identified for alternative crop(s) with high grain yield, low grain protein concentration, and high starch for the ethanol industry. The objective of this study was to benchmark the relative performance of triticale (×Triticosecale ssp.) to wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) classes currently utilized for ethanol production. Sixteen cultivars—three triticale, four Canada prairie spring (CPS) wheat, three Canada western soft white spring wheat (CWSWS), two Canada western red spring (CWRS) wheat, and four Canada western general purpose (CWGP) candidate cultivars—were grown at 36 locations across western Canada from 2006 to 2009. The performance of these cereal classes can generally be summarized as triticale = Hoffman (CWGP) = CWSWS > CPS white > CPS red > CWRS for most variables. The triticale and white wheats produced 12 and 13% more grain, respectively, than the hard red spring wheats. Among the triticales, AC Ultima’s and Pronghorn’s yield potential were most notable because they exceeded the CWRS cultivars AC Barrie and AC Superb by an average of 32% and the CPS red cultivars 5700PR and AC Crystal by 18%. The triticales and Hoffman matured later than most other cultivars. Pronghorn consistently displayed low levels of fusarium head blight (FHB), Septoria nodorum blotch, and powdery mildew, but elevated ergot levels were observed for all triticales. We conclude that triticale would be superior to CPS and CWRS wheat and similar to CWSWS in many agronomic traits desired by ethanol fermentation plants and is superior for biomass production.
A Canadian Ethanol Feedstock Study to Benchmark the Relative Performance of Triticale: II. Grain Quality and Ethanol Production
Authors: Beres Brian , Pozniak Curtis , Bressler David , Gibreel Amera , Eudes Francois , Graf Robert , Randhawa Harpinder , Salmon Don , McLeod Grant , Dion Yves , Irvine Byron , Voldeng Harvey , Martin Richard , Pageau Denis , Comeau Andre , DePauw Ronald , Phelps Sherrilyn , Spaner Dean
Published: September 2013

Cereal grain ethanol production may need to supplement biomass ethanol production to meet the increasing long‐term demand for ethanol. A study was initiated to benchmark the relative performance of triticale (×Triticosecale ssp.) to wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) classes utilized for ethanol production. Ten cultivars: three triticale, two Canada prairie spring (CPS) wheat, three Canada western soft white spring (CWSWS) wheat, one Canada western red spring (CWRS) wheat, and one Canada western general purpose (CWGP) wheat cultivars were grown at 45 locations across Canada from 2006 to 2009. The locations were subgrouped by agroecological zone for western Canada, by province for Ontario and Quebec, and Charlottetown, PEI, for the Maritimes. The greatest grain yield was usually observed for Hoffman (red spring wheat) followed by triticale cultivars and CWSWS cultivars. Ethanol yield varied by region as a reflection of grain yield, and differences among cultivars generally were: triticale (excluding Tyndal) = Hoffman = CWSWS > CPS > CWRS. Ethanol concentration was least for Tyndal triticale and AC Superb CWRS. Stability assessments indicated that Pronghorn and AC Ultima triticales and Bhishaj CWSWS wheat provide consistent and high ethanol yields. The other CWSWS cultivars, AC Sadash and AC Andrew, had similarly high ethanol yields but were variable, indicating that utilization outside the Parkland and Western Prairies agroecological zones could pose greater risk for ethanol plants over Pronghorn and AC Ultima. Ethanol fermentation plants could therefore increase efficiency by replacing CPS wheat feedstocks with select triticales and potentially improve the consistency of production by using select triticales in regions where CWSWS wheats are less stable.
Physiological Dynamics of Maize Nitrogen Uptake and Partitioning in Response to Plant Density and Nitrogen Stress Factors: II. Reproductive Phase
Authors: Ciampitti Ignacio A. , Murrell Scott T. , Camberato James J. , Tuinstra Mitch , Xia Yanbing , Friedemann Peter , Vyn Tony J.
Published: September 2013

Improved plant N utilization and partitioning is critical for future improvements in maize (Zea mays L.) grain yield (GY). The overall research objective was to gain understanding of the physiological mechanisms underpinning biomass (BM), N uptake partitioning, and GY processes during the reproductive period for two maize hybrids grown at varying plant density (PD) (low is 54,000 plant ha−1, medium is 79,000 plants ha−1, and high is 104,000 plants ha−1) and N inputs (low is 0 kg N ha−1, medium is 112 kg N ha−1, and high is 224 kg N ha−1) over four site–years. At the community level, maize GY was maximized in both genotypes at the medium PD and highest N rate. At maturity, grain harvest index improved as the whole‐plant N uptake increased following a linear‐plateau model and, for N allocation, both grain and shoot N concentrations increased similarly as BM increased. Around flowering (±15 d), dry mass and N partitioning rates were unmodified by treatment factors. Treatment factors only marginally influenced potential kernel number near flowering. Allometric analyses confirmed a lack of treatment impact on whole‐plant N uptake and N remobilization coefficients. Greater reproductive‐stage N uptake was associated with superior ear strength (kernel number and weight) and late shoot N remobilization, but GY was also positively related to vegetative‐stage N uptake. Future research should identify genotypic variation for overcoming the documented N uptake trade‐off mechanisms (vegetative‐stage N uptake vs. shoot N remobilization) as related to the maize GY improvement process.
Low Dose Radiation Adaptive Protection to Control Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Doss Mohan
Published: September 2013

Concerns have been expressed recently regarding the observed increased DNA damage from activities such as thinking and exercise. Such concerns have arisen from an incomplete accounting of the full effects of the increased oxidative damage. When the effects of the induced adaptive protective responses such as increased antioxidants and DNA repair enzymes are taken into consideration, there would be less endogenous DNA damage during the subsequent period of enhanced defenses, resulting in improved health from the thinking and exercise activities. Low dose radiation (LDR), which causes oxidative stress and increased DNA damage, upregulates adaptive protection systems that may decrease diseases in an analogous manner. Though there are ongoing debates regarding LDR's carcinogenicity, with two recent advisory committee reports coming to opposite conclusions, data published since the time of the reports have overwhelmingly ruled out its carcinogenicity, paving the way for consideration of its potential use for disease reduction. LDR adaptive protection is a promising approach to control neurodegenerative diseases, for which there are no methods of prevention or cure. Preparation of a compelling ethics case would pave the way for LDR clinical studies and progress in dealing with neurodegenerative diseases.
Non-enzymatic hydrogen peroxide sensor based on a nanoporous gold electrode modified with platinum nanoparticles
Authors: Yin Guang , Xing Ling , Ma Xiu-Ju , Wan Jun
Published: September 2013

A novel non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor based on a nanoporous gold electrode modified with platinum nanoparticles was constructed for the determination of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Platinum nanoparticles exhibit good electrocatalytic activity towards hydrogen peroxide. The nanoporous gold (NPG) increases the effective surface area and has the capacity to promote electron-transfer reactions. With electrodeposition of Pt nanoparticles (NPs) on the surface of the nanoporous gold, the modified Au electrode afforded a fast, sensitive and selective electrochemical method for the determination of H2O2. The linear range for the detection of H2O2 was from 1.0 × 10−7 M to 2.0 × 10−5 M while the calculated limit of detection was 7.2 × 10−8 M on the basis of the 3σ/slope (σ represents the standard deviation of the blank samples). These findings could lead to the widespread use of electrochemical sensors to detect H2O2.
High-operating temperature MWIR nBn HgCdTe detector grown by MOCVD
Authors: Kopytko M. , Kębłowski A. , Gawron W. , Madejczyk P. , Kowalewski A. , Jóźwikowski K.
Published: September 2013

The paper reports on the first experimental results of the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) HgCdTe barrier detectors operated at near-room temperatures and fabricated using metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). SIMS profiles let to compare projected and obtained structures and reveals interdiffusion processes between the layers. Undesirable iodine diffusion from cap to the barrier increase the valance band offset and is the key item in limiting the performance of HgCdTe nBn detector. However, MOCVD technology with a wide range of composition and donor/acceptor doping and without post grown annealing might be successfully adopted for barrier device architectures.
Relative and Absolute Reliability of a Vertical Numerical Pain Rating Scale Supplemented With a Faces Pain Scale After Stroke
Authors: Chuang Li-ling , Wu Ching-yi , Lin Keh-chung , Hsieh Ching-ju
Published: September 2013

Background

Pain is a serious adverse complication after stroke. The combination of a vertical numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) and a faces pain scale (FPS) has been advocated to measure pain after stroke.

Objective

This study was conducted to investigate whether an NPRS supplemented with an FPS (NPRS-FPS) would show good test-retest reliability in people with stroke. The relative and absolute reliability of the NPRS-FPS were examined.

Design

A test-retest design was used for this study.

Methods

Fifty people (>3 months after stroke) participating in an outpatient occupational therapy program were recruited through medical centers to rate current pain intensity twice, at a 1-week interval, with the NPRS-FPS (on a scale from 0 to 10). The relative reliability of the NPRS-FPS was analyzed with the intraclass correlation coefficient for determining the degree of consistency and agreement between 2 measures. The standard error of measurement, the smallest real difference, and Bland-Altman limits of agreement were the absolute reliability indexes used to quantify measurement errors and determine systematic biases of repeated measurements.

Results

The relative reliability of the NPRS-FPS was substantial (intraclass correlation coefficient=.82). The standard error of measurement and the smallest real difference at the 90% confidence interval of the NPRS-FPS were 0.81 and 1.87, respectively. The Bland-Altman analyses revealed no significant systematic bias between repeated measurements for the NPRS-FPS. The range of the limits of agreement for the NPRS-FPS was narrow (−2.50 to 1.90), indicating a high level of stability and little variation over time.

Limitations

The pain intensity of the participants ranged from no pain to a moderate level of pain.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the NPRS-FPS is a reliable measure of pain in people with stroke, with good relative and absolute reliability.