bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remarkable Improvement of Nail Changes in Alopecia Areata Universalis with 10 Months of Treatment with Tofacitinib: A Case Report
Authors: Ferreira Sineida Berbert , Scheinberg Morton , Steiner Denise , Steiner Tatiana , Bedin Gustavo Longhi , Ferreira Rachel Berbert
Published: October 2016

Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic, autoimmune disease. The main symptom is massive hair loss, localized or diffuse, in the scalp and the whole body. However, nails may also be involved, and brittleness, fragility and pitting can be signs of nail dystrophy in AA patients. Here, we report the case of a male patient with AA refractory to various treatments, including oral, topical and intralesional corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, cyclosporin and PUVA (oxoralen plus ultraviolet light), all interrupted due to side effects. The patient’s nails had erythematous blotches (striated lunulae) with regular and superficial pitting as well as fragility (trachyonychia), and he could no longer play the guitar because of these symptoms. With patient consent, we introduced tofacitinib (5 mg twice daily), which resulted in remarkable improvements not only regarding hair regrowth but also nail changes, with function recovery within 10 months.
Cardiac Consequences of Autonomic Dysreflexia in Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: West Christopher R. , Squair Jordan W. , McCracken Laura , Currie Katharine D. , Somvanshi Rishi , Yuen Violet , Phillips Aaron A. , Kumar Ujendra , McNeill John H. , Krassioukov Andrei V.
Published: October 2016

Autonomic dysreflexia (AD), which describes episodic hypertension, is highly prevalent in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). In non-SCI, primary hypertension depresses cardiac contractile reserve via β-adrenergic mechanisms. In this study, we investigated whether AD contributes to the impairment in cardiac contractile function that accompanies SCI. We induced SCI in rodents and stratified them into sham, SCI, or SCI plus repetitive induction of AD. At 6-week post-SCI, we assessed cardiac function using in vivo (speckle-tracking echocardiography), ex vivo (working heart), and molecular approaches (Western blot). We also provide unique translational insight by comparing the relationship between the number of daily AD events and cardiac function in 14 individuals with cervical SCI. We found SCI and SCI plus repetitive induction of AD exhibited a reduction in left ventricular dimensions at 6-week post-SCI versus preinjury (
P
<0.049). Compared with sham, SCI exhibited a reduction in peak radial strain along with a down and rightward shift in the Starling curve (
P
<0.037), both of which were further depressed in SCI plus repetitive induction of AD (
P
<0.042). In response to β-adrenergic stimulation, SCI plus repetitive induction of AD exhibited an attenuated increase in contractile indices (
P
<0.001), despite no differences in β-receptor expression within the left ventricle. Our clinical data confirm our experimental findings by demonstrating significant associations between the number of daily AD events and markers of systolic and diastolic function along with left ventricular mechanics. Here, we provide the first evidence from a translational perspective that AD exerts insidious effects on cardiac function in rodents and humans with SCI.
Agonistic Autoantibodies to the Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Enhance Angiotensin II–Induced Renal Vascular Sensitivity and Reduce Renal Function During Pregnancy
Authors: Cunningham Mark W. , Williams Jan M. , Amaral Lorena , Usry Nathan , Wallukat Gerd , Dechend Ralf , LaMarca Babbette
Published: October 2016

Preeclamptic women produce agonistic autoantibodies to the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1-AA) and exhibit increased blood pressure (mean arterial pressure), vascular sensitivity to angiotensin II (ANG II), and display a decrease in renal function. The objective of this study was to examine the renal hemodynamic changes during pregnancy in the presence of AT1-AAs with or without a slow pressor dose of ANG II. In this study, mean arterial pressure was elevated in all pregnant rats treated with ANG II with or without AT1-AA. Glomerular filtration rate was reduced from 1.90±0.16 mL/min in normal pregnant (NP) to 1.20±0.08 in ANG II+AT1-AA rats. Renal blood flow was decreased in ANG II+AT1-AA versus NP rats to 7.4±1.09 versus 15.4±1.75 mL/min. Renal vascular resistance was drastically increased between ANG II+AT1-AA versus NP rats (18.4±2.91 versus 6.4±0.77 mm Hg/mL per minute). Isoprostane excretion was increased by 3.5-fold in ANG II+AT1-AA versus NP (1160±321 versus 323±52 pg/mL). In conclusion, ANG II and AT1-AA together significantly decrease glomerular filtration rate by 37% and renal blood flow by 50% and caused a 3-fold increase in renal vascular resistance and isoprostane levels versus NP rats. These data indicate the importance of AT1-AAs to enhance ANG II–induced renal vasoconstriction and reduce renal function as mechanisms to cause hypertension as observed during preeclampsia.
Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor‐1 and Diagnosis of the Metabolic Syndrome in a West African Population
Authors: Kodaman Nuri , Aldrich Melinda C. , Sobota Rafal , Asselbergs Folkert W. , Brown Nancy J. , Moore Jason H. , Williams Scott M.
Published: October 2016

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is diagnosed by the presence of at least 3 of the following: obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and low high‐density lipoprotein. Individuals with MetS also typically have elevated plasma levels of the antifibrinolytic factor, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (
PAI
‐1), but the relationships between
PAI
‐1 and MetS diagnostic criteria are not clear. Understanding these relationships can elucidate the relevance of MetS to cardiovascular disease risk, because
PAI
‐1 is associated with ischemic events and directly involved in thrombosis.

Methods and Results

In a cross‐sectional analysis of 2220 Ghanaian men and women from urban and rural locales, we found the age‐standardized prevalence of MetS to be as high as 21.4% (urban women).
PAI
‐1 level increased exponentially as the number of diagnostic criteria increased linearly (
P
<10
−13
), supporting the conclusion that MetS components have a joint effect that is stronger than their additive contributions. Body mass index, triglycerides, and fasting glucose were more strongly correlated with
PAI
‐1 than with canonical MetS criteria, and this pattern did not change when pair‐wise correlations were conditioned on all other risk factors, supporting an independent role for
PAI
‐1 in MetS. Finally, whereas the correlations between conventional risk factors did not vary significantly by sex or across urban and rural environments, correlations with
PAI
‐1 were generally stronger among urban participants.

Conclusions

MetS prevalence in the West African population we studied was comparable to that of the industrialized West.
PAI
‐1 may serve as a key link between MetS, as currently defined, and the endpoints with which it is associated. Whether this association is generalizable will require follow‐up.
Molding the Signifier by Ivor Diosi: An All-too-Human Victor
Authors: Cakl Ondřej
Published: October 2016

In this curatorial consideration, the author reveals factors that most essentially influenced the decision to present Ivor Diosi’s artwork Molding the Signifier, as part of the Trust Me, I’m an Artist EU project event in Prague (16–19 November 2015). It questions the notion of AI as it currently exists, suggesting that the ideas of “artificial,” “independent” or “higher” intelligence and existence are all too human (and from that point of view therefore dangerous). As curator of the event, the author argues that Molding the Signifier, although it does not confront existing legislation, does question the ethical core of the essential latent purposes of biotechnologies as a means of human creativity.
Sappho 44
Authors: Spelman Henry
Published: October 2016

This paper explores what the most substantial remnant of Sappho’s poetry could have meant to its first audiences. Scholars often approach fr. 44 as a response to the HomericIliad, but for Sappho’s contemporaries theIliadwould not have constituted the sole horizon for intertextual engagement. I suggest that the description of the wedding of Hector and Andromache would have brought to mind the wedding of Paris and Helen, a parallel traditional episode that was well-known in Sappho’s day. Section 1 describes how our knowledge of mythical discourse on archaic Lesbos may guide the interpretation of fr. 44. Section 2 argues for the relevance of the wedding of Paris and Helen and sketches some interpretive implications.
The Poetics of kalos thanatos in Euripides’ Hecuba
Authors: Papastamati Styliani
Published: October 2016

This paper reads Polyxena’s death inHecubavia a different lens and uncovers hidden aspects of Euripides’ technique in configuring her death as a heroic act. It argues that her death is a reshaped version ofkalos thanatos, with a binary, masculine and feminine, quality. In this framework a series of traditional, mainly epic and elegiac, motifs are employed (heroism, athletic victory, beauty, marriage) with multiple effects on Polyxena’s sacrifice. In conclusion, this article explores the implications of Polyxena’s death in the larger narrative ofHecuba.
Indigenising in a Globalised World
Authors: Harvey Graham
Published: October 2016

Being Indigenous seems, by definition, to be about belonging to a place. Sometimes it is even defined as belonging in specific places. Near synonyms like “native” and “aboriginal” can be used to locate people in relation to ancestral, pre-invasion / pre-colonial places. However, Indigenous peoples are no more enclosed by geography than other-than-indigenous peoples. Complex and extensive trade routes and migration patterns are important features of the pasts of many Indigenous nations. Tangible and intangible goods were gifted or exchanged to ferment and cement inter-national relations. In the present era, Indigenous peoples have a significant presence in global forums such as the United Nations (UN), in environmental discussions, in cultural festivals and in diasporic communities. This text uses Indigenous performances at the annual (Sámi organised) Riddu Riddu festival in arctic Norway and the biennial Origins Festival of First Nations hosted in London, U.K., to exemplify explicit and taken-for-granted knowledge of place-as-community. The entailment of animistic insistence, that places are multi-species communities requiring respectful and mutualistic interaction, points to the transformative potential of Indigenous spatiality.
The Uncertainty of Precipitation-Type Observations and Its Effect on the Validation of Forecast Precipitation Type
Authors: Reeves Heather Dawn
Published: October 2016

Herein, an evaluation of the uncertainty of precipitation-type observations and its effect on the validation of forecast precipitation type is undertaken. The forms of uncertainty are instrument/observer bias and horizontal/temporal variability. Instrument/observer biases are assessed by comparing observations from the Automated Surface Observing Station (ASOS) and Meteorological Phenomena Identification Near the Ground (mPING) networks. Relative to the augmented ASOS, mPING observations are biased toward ice pellets (PL) and away from rain (RA). However, when mPING is used to validate precipitation-type algorithms, the probabilities of detection (PODs) for both RA and PL are decreased relative to those from the augmented ASOS. The decreased POD for RA is the result of numerous mPING reports of RA in the presence of a surface-subfreezing layer in the nearest observed sounding. Temporal and spatial variability effects are also assessed. The typical lifespan of transitional forms of precipitation is between 10 and 40 min, with many events having two or more forms of precipitation reported in a 1-h time frame. Depending on how one defines a hit for these rapidly evolving events, inherent biases in the forecasts may be dampened or masked altogether. Spatial variability also exerts a strong control on the performance of postprocessing algorithms, as both FZRA and PL often have spatial scales that are too small to be resolved, even by convection-allowing forecast models. However, the degree of variability is not strongly dependent on the distance separating any two observation pairs and, consequently, validation statistics do not change significantly as a model’s grid spacing is increased, all else being equal.
Coping With Paradoxical Demands Through an Organizational Climate of Perceived Organizational Support
Authors: Törner Marianne , Pousette Anders , Larsman Pernilla , Hemlin Sven
Published: October 2016

Organizational demands on productivity, innovations, and safety may seem paradoxical. How can the organization support employees to cope with such paradox? Based on organizational climate measures of safety, occupational health, innovativeness, and production effectiveness, we explored if a second-order organizational climate could be identified, that was associated with staff safety, health, innovations and team effectiveness, and if such a climate could be represented by an organizational climate of perceived organizational support (POS). Questionnaire data were collected from 137 workgroups in four Swedish companies in construction and mining. Analyses (structural equation modeling) were done at the workgroup level and a split sample technique used to investigate relations between climates and outcomes. A general second-order organizational climate was identified. Also, an organizational climate constructed by items selected to represent POS, was associated with team effectiveness, innovations, and safety. A POS-climate may facilitate employees’ coping with paradoxes, and provide a heuristic for managers in decision making.
Metabolic Requirement of Septic Shock Patients Before and After Liberation From Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Lee Peggy Siu‐Pik , Lee Kar Lung , Betts James A. , Law Kin Ip
Published: October 2016

Objectives: This study identified the difference in energy expenditure and substrate utilization of patients during and upon liberation from mechanical ventilation. Methods: Patients under intensive care who were diagnosed with septic shock and dependent on mechanical ventilation were recruited. Indirect calorimetry measurements were performed during and upon liberation from mechanical ventilation. Results: Thirty‐five patients were recruited (20 men and 15 women; mean age, 69 ± 10 years). Measured energy expenditures during ventilation and upon liberation were 2090 ± 489 kcal·d−1 and 1910 ± 579 kcal·d−1, respectively (P < .05). Energy intake was provided at 1148 ± 495 kcal·d−1 and differed significantly from all measured energy expenditures (P < .05). Mean carbohydrate utilization was 0.19 ± 0.1 g·min−1 when patients were on mechanical ventilation compared with 0.15 ± 0.09 g·min−1 upon liberation (P < .05). Mean lipid oxidation was 0.08 ± 0.05 g·min−1 during and 0.09 ± 0.07 g·min−1 upon liberation from mechanical ventilation (P > .05). Conclusions: Measured energy expenditure was higher during than upon liberation from mechanical ventilation. This could be the increase in work of breathing from the continuous positive pressure support, repeated weaning cycles from mechanical ventilation, and/or the asynchronization between patients’ respiration and ventilator support. Future studies should examine whether more appropriately matching energy expenditure with energy intake would promote positive health outcomes.
Respiratory and Enteric Virus Detection in Children
Authors: Pokorn Marko , Jevšnik Monika , Petrovec Miroslav , Steyer Andrej , Mrvič Tatjana , Grosek Štefan , Lusa Lara , Strle Franc
Published: October 2016

The majority of children with febrile seizures have viral infections and viruses were detected in 22% to 63% of children in published studies. Using molecular methods, viruses were also detected in asymptomatic persons. A prospective study was conducted to detect respiratory and enteric viruses in 192 children with febrile seizures and compare the detection rates to those found in 156 healthy age-matched controls. A respiratory or enteric virus was detected in 72.9% of children with febrile seizures and in 51.4% of healthy controls. The viruses most strongly associated with febrile seizures were influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza, human coronavirus, and rotavirus. Compared to healthy controls, the age-adjusted odds ratios for nasopharynx virus positivity in febrile seizure patients were 79.4, 2.8, 7.2, and 4.9 for influenza virus, parainfluenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, and human coronavirus, respectively, and 22.0 for rotavirus in stool. The detected virus did not influence clinical features of febrile seizure.
Tissue localization, shedding, virus carriage, antibody response, and aerosol transmission of Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus following inoculation of 4-week-old feeder pigs
Authors: Niederwerder Megan C. , Nietfeld Jerome C. , Bai Jianfa , Peddireddi Lalitha , Breazeale Barbara , Anderson Joe , Kerrigan Maureen A. , An Baoyan , Oberst Richard D. , Crawford Kimberly , Lager Kelly M. , Madson Darin M. , Rowland Raymond R. R. , Anderson Gary A. , Hesse Richard A.
Published: October 2016

We determined tissue localization, shedding patterns, virus carriage, antibody response, and aerosol transmission of Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) following inoculation of 4-week-old feeder pigs. Thirty-three pigs were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups for the 42-day study: inoculated (group A; n = 23), contact transmission (group B; n = 5), and aerosol transmission (group C; n = 5). Contact transmission occurred rapidly to group B pigs whereas productive aerosol transmission failed to occur to group C pigs. Emesis was the first clinical sign noted at 3 days postinoculation (dpi) followed by mild to moderate diarrhea lasting 5 more days. Real-time PCR detected PEDV in fecal and nasal swabs, oral fluids, serum, and gastrointestinal and lymphoid tissues. Shedding occurred primarily during the first 2 weeks postinoculation, peaking at 5–6 dpi; however, some pigs had PEDV nucleic acid detected in swabs collected at 21 and 28 dpi. Antibody titers were measurable between 14 and 42 dpi. Although feces and intestines collected at 42 dpi were PEDV negative by PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively, small intestines from 70% of group A pigs were PCR positive. Although disease was relatively mild and transient in this age group, the results demonstrate that 4-week-old pigs are productively infected and can sustain virus replication for several weeks. Long-term shedding of PEDV in subclinically affected pigs should be considered an important source for PEDV transmission.
Isolation and identification of Caviibacter abscessus from cervical abscesses in a series of pet guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus)
Authors: Bemis David A. , Johnson Brian H. , Bryant Mary Jean , Jones Rebekah D. , McCleery Brynn V. , Greenacre Cheryl B. , Perreten Vincent , Kania Stephen A.
Published: October 2016

An organism reported in the early literature to be a rare cause of cervical lymphadenitis in guinea pigs, Streptobacillus moniliformis, has been reclassified as Caviibacter abscessus. We describe a series of sequential cases of abscesses in guinea pigs that were presented to our clinic from which the only agent isolated was a unique, serum-requiring bacterium. Discrete colonies were not detected in 6.5% CO2 or anaerobically on routine primary isolation media containing up to 5% whole sheep blood, with and without cysteine, vitamin K, and hemin supplementation after 7 days of incubation at 37°C. Based on subsequently determined growth requirements, the organisms were best described as serum-requiring, aerotolerant anaerobes. Colonies were detectable within 24 h at 37°C in an anaerobic atmosphere on a mycoplasma agar–based medium containing 10% pig serum and reached 3 mm in diameter within 3–5 days. Microscopic appearance consisted of small gram-negative rods and coccobacilli with occasional filaments. However, in direct smears from clinical specimens and from weak or dysgonic growth on plates incubated under suboptimal growth conditions (e.g., in 6.5% CO2), irregular rods with occasional small bulbous forms or numerous long wavy filaments were observed. All of the isolates generated unique spectral profiles similar to that of C. abscessus when examined by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Phylogenetic analysis of partial 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the isolates were identical to each other and shared 99.9% sequence identity with C. abscessus.
Correlation of Physical Performance and Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: McConnell Evan P. , Queen Robin M.
Published: October 2016

Background:

Functional recovery following total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is assessed with patient-reported metrics, but physical performance tests may allow for a more accurate assessment of patient function. We quantified correlations between patient-reported measures and physical performance tests in patients after TAA to determine the usefulness of physical performance tests in post-TAA assessment.

Methods:

In total, 140 patients with end-stage ankle osteoarthritis were assessed prior to TAA and again at 12 and 24 months postoperatively. At each time point, the visual analog scale (VAS), Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS), Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA), and Short-Form 36 (SF-36) scores were collected, as well as walking speed, Four-Square Step Test (FSST) times, and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) balance scores.

Results:

All but 1 (SF-36 general health component) of the patient-reported outcomes improved significantly from preoperative assessment to both 1 and 2 years postoperatively ( P < .001 in all cases). Walking speed, FSST times, and balance scores improved significantly across time ( P < .001 in all cases). Walking speed was moderately correlated with total SF-36 scores at both 1 and 2 years postoperatively ( P < .001 in both cases), both components of the SMFA at 1 year postoperatively ( P < .001 in both cases), and total AOFAS scores at 2 years postoperatively ( P = .001).

Conclusion:

The lack of strong correlations between the 2 sets of metrics indicates that they provide different information about a patient’s recovery following TAA. Therefore, it is important to include both sets of metrics in post-TAA assessments to better understand operative success and functional recovery.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, cohort study.
Rating Communication in GP Consultations: The Association Between Ratings Made by Patients and Trained Clinical Raters
Authors: Burt Jenni , Abel Gary , Elmore Natasha , Newbould Jenny , Davey Antoinette , Llanwarne Nadia , Maramba Inocencio , Paddison Charlotte , Benson John , Silverman Jonathan , Elliott Marc N. , Campbell John , Roland Martin
Published: October 2016

Patient evaluations of physician communication are widely used, but we know little about how these relate to professionally agreed norms of communication quality. We report an investigation into the association between patient assessments of communication quality and an observer-rated measure of communication competence. Consent was obtained to video record consultations with Family Practitioners in England, following which patients rated the physician’s communication skills. A sample of consultation videos was subsequently evaluated by trained clinical raters using an instrument derived from the Calgary-Cambridge guide to the medical interview. Consultations scored highly for communication by clinical raters were also scored highly by patients. However, when clinical raters judged communication to be of lower quality, patient scores ranged from “poor” to “very good.” Some patients may be inhibited from rating poor communication negatively. Patient evaluations can be useful for measuring relative performance of physicians’ communication skills, but absolute scores should be interpreted with caution.
Belize's Ecosystems: Threats and Challenges to Conservation in Belize
Authors: Young Colin A.
Published: October 2016

Belize, for its small size, is remarkably diverse ecologically and culturally. However, its forests and marine resources are under significant threat, mainly from high deforestation rates, improper solid waste management, rapid coastal development, increasing poverty, weak institutional and legal frameworks, and the recent discovery of sweet crude oil. Sustainable solutions to these challenges will require innovative, practical, and cost-effective strategies that involve all stakeholders and that seek to improve the socio-economic conditions of these stakeholders. Belize's network of protected areas must be managed transparently, utilizing best management practices and informed by applied scientific research, if the biodiversity they contain is to be maintained
Primate Research and Conservation in Northern Argentina: The Field Station Corrientes (Estación Biológica de Usos Múltiples –EBCo)
Authors: Zunino Gabriel E. , Kowalewski Martin M.
Published: October 2016

In Argentina two ( Alouatta guariba and Aotus Azarai) out of five species of non-human primates are endangered ( Alouatta caraya, Cebus nigritus, and Cebus paraguayanus). However, most of the forests these species inhabit are under continuous anthropogenic alteration and many are not protected. The Estación Biológica de Usos Múltiples de Corrientes (EBCo) is an academic and research institution established in 2001, and its main goals are to ensure the protection of plant and animal species living in the province of Corrientes, northern Argentina, and to develop environmental education in the area surrounding the station. We present a short review of the history of the EBCO, its goals, research, and conservation projects. The main research projects are related to the study of demography, ecology, and behavior of primates in northern Argentina and to the study of ecosystem health aimed at identifying risk factors for disease transmission. Conservation-oriented activities are aimed at improving the ability of conservationists and policy-makers regarding timber exploitation, wildlife conservation, and human health.
Protected on Paper, Hunted in Wetlands: Exploitation and Trade of Freshwater Turtles (Melanochelys Trijuga Coronata and Lissemys Punctata Punctata) in Punnamada, Kerala, India
Authors: Krishnakumar K. , Raghavan Rajeev , Pereira Benno
Published: October 2016

Soft shell turtles are among the most threatened groups of freshwater animals that are in need of urgent conservation attention. In Kerala (South India), two species of freshwater turtles, the Indian black turtle or Indian pond terrapin, Melanochelys trijuga coronata (Schweigger, 1812) and the Indian Flap-shelled turtle Lissemys punctata punctata (Lacépède, 1788) are exploited from Vembanad lake and associated wetlands in Punnamada to meet the demand from local restaurants and toddy shops. Eight hundred and forty three individuals belonging to the two species (499 pond terrapins and 344 flap-shelled turtle) were observed during a field survey conducted in 2007 at Punnamada. Despite being listed at the highest level in the Indian wildlife protection act, very little law enforcement takes place and turtles are exploited and traded regularly. Collection and trade have also become an important component of the local livelihoods in Punnamada, with the involvement of around five full-time and 25 part-time collectors. Details of the collection, marketing, economics and management of the freshwater turtles in Punnamada are discussed.
Usos de invertebrados na medicina popular no Brasil e suas implicações para conservação
Authors: Alves Rômulo R. N. , Dias Thelma L. P.
Published: October 2016

Animais medicinais constituem uma parte integral da Medicina Popular Brasileira tanto em áreas urbanas quanto rurais. Não obstante, embora o uso de animais medicinais represente um importante componente da medicina tradicional tem sido pouco estudado quando comparado às plantas medicinais. O presente trabalho apresenta uma revisão sobre os invertebrados medicinais. Os resultados revelam que pelo menos 81 espécies de invertebrados de cinco grupos taxonômicos diferentes são usados para tratamento de diferentes doenças no Brasil. Os grupos com maior número de espécies foram insetos (n=41 espécies), moluscos (n=17) e crustáceos (n=16). Esses resultados evidenciam a importância dos invertebrados medicinais como alternativa terapěutica. Alguns dos animais medicinais comercializados constam em listas de espécies ameaçadas, evidenciando a necessidade premente de se considerar a zooterapia dentro do contexto da conservação da biodiversidade no Brasil. Ações conservacionistas, não devem ser direcionadas apenas às espécies ameaçadas, mas também a espécies cujo uso seja amplamente disseminado no país. Além dos aspectos biológicos, os fatores econômicos e socioculturais influenciam a relação das pessoas e a utilização de recursos zooterápicos. A necessidade de novos estudos, sobre a fauna medicinal do Brasil é evidente, visando a busca de uma melhor compreensão desta forma de terapia, levando em consideração não só os seus aspectos ecológicos, mas também cultural e farmacológicos.
Rotational Grazing of Native Pasturelands in the Pantanal: An Effective Conservation Tool
Authors: Eaton Donald Parsons , Santos Sandra Aparecida , Santos Maria do Carmo Andrade , Lima José Vergílio Bernardes , Keuroghlian Alexine
Published: October 2016

Deforestation and conversion of native habitats to exotic pasture and crops, plus inefficient agricultural and cattle management practices, are placing great pressures on natural resources in the Pantanal and Cerrado. To prevent further deforestation and protect biodiversity, areas already developed for farming and ranching need to be managed more efficiently and profitably, so that economic incentives for additional deforestation are minimized. To that end, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has been working with rural community partners to promote best-management practices that optimize profitability and efficient use of developed lands, while minimizing pressures on natural resources. To improve pasture conditions and reduce cattle impacts, we evaluated the use of rotational grazing as a management tool by monitoring native pasture and cattle within continuous and rotational grazing areas on a southern Pantanal ranch. Monthly comparisons of the grazing systems showed that forage dry mass in the rotational area was greater compared to that of continuously grazed areas. After 17 months, mean cattle weights were 15% heavier and pregnancy rates 22% higher for the herd using the rotational system. Based on forage allowance estimates, the potential stocking rates of the rotational system were 2 to 6 times higher than rates typical of continuously grazed areas in the Pantanal. Results support the use of rotational grazing in native pasture areas of the Pantanal.
Predicting the Potential Distribution and Conservation Needs of Travancore Flying Squirrel, Petinomys fuscocapillus, in Peninsular India and Sri Lanka, using GARP
Authors: Kumara Honnavalli Nagaraj , Suganthasakthivel Ramamoorthy
Published: October 2016

Petinomys fuscocapillus, Jerdon 1847, Travancore flying squirrel, is known to occur in the forests of India and Sri Lanka. In spite of extensive surveys very few individuals were recorded in the last century. For a better understanding of the possible range of distribution, the present study mapped the potential geographic distribution of the P. fuscocapillus from peninsular India and Sri Lanka. We utilized occurrence records of 32 confirmed sightings of P. fuscocapillus to model the species'potential geographic distribution by applying an ecological niche modelling (ENM) framework using Genetic Algorithm for Rule set Prediction (GARP). Results indicate that the modeled potential distribution of P. fuscocapillus in India is highly restricted to the narrow strip on western slope of the Western Ghats, and in Sri Lanka the predicted distribution is predominant in the lowlands of wet and intermediate zones. Further, about 88% of the modeled potential distribution range lies outside the protected area network and occupies lowland evergreen, semi-evergreen and its degraded forested stages. The narrow environmental niche of both known and modeled potential distribution and highly susceptible forests with less protection raise the need for conservation efforts and future studies.
Household Bushmeat Consumption in Brazzaville, the Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mbete Roger Albert , Banga-Mboko Henri , Racey Paul , Mfoukou-Ntsakala André , Nganga Innocent , Vermeulen Cédric , Doucet Jean-Louis , Hornick Jean-Luc , Leroy Pascal
Published: October 2016

Wildlife meat is an important source of animal protein for rural and urban populations in Congo. Quantitative and qualitative surveys on the consumption of bushmeat were undertaken in Brazzaville in 2006, in about 1,050 urban households. The main objective was to establish the profiles of consumers and of species concerned. The results showed that 88.3% of the surveyed households consumed bushmeat. Their average size was 5.7 ± 3.2 persons. The average monthly income of an urban consumer with a permanent job was 98,334 (US$197) ± 84,306 (US$169) FCFA. It appeared that households preferred to consume bushmeat for two major reasons: the taste or flavor (67.8%) and food habits (14.7%). Meat from mammals was preferred, the top three orders of this class being artiodactyls (48.3%), rodents (28.3%), and primates (13.0%). Some of them are listed as threatened in Congo Brazzaville and are included in the IUCN Red List. The results showed that in Brazzaville, bushmeat consumption remains important and is determined by socio-economic parameters. The promotion of game farming, and breeding of domestic species such as poultry and fish, in the Brazzaville suburbs could help to meet Congolese demand for bushmeat
Post-Logging Recovery of Animal-Dispersed Trees in a Tropical Forest Site in North-East India
Authors: Velho Nandini , Krishnadas Meghna
Published: October 2016

Selective logging is known to alter the structural and community composition of tropical forests and may disrupt plant-frugivore interactions. We hypothesized that even after a sufficient period of recovery, logged areas will not possess as complete a suite of species as an unlogged forest, the differences being more marked for biotically-dispersed species. Species of this functional group are expected to occur at lower densities, have lower species richness and diversity, and be smaller in logged forests. To quantify structural and functional differences in tree communities, we sampled 120 randomly placed plots, 60 each in logged and unlogged forest sites. We found significant differences in species richness and diversity between logged and intact forest. Within biotically-dispersed species, bird dispersed species showed a significant reduction in species richness. Consistent with previous studies, trees in logged forests were smaller, although overall density was not different between the two treatments. We posit that selective logging might have pervasive effects on functional aspects of tropical tree communities, which appear to persist even after two decades of logging cessation.
What is the Predictive Power of the Colobine Protein-to-Fiber Model and its Conservation Value?
Authors: Gogarten Jan F. , Guzman Melissa , Chapman Colin A. , Jacob Aerin L. , Omeja Patrick A. , Rothman Jessica M.
Published: October 2016

Predicting variation in animal abundance across time and space has proven very difficult; however, a model exists to predict the biomass of small folivorous primates that has considerable correlative support. This model suggests that the protein-to-fiber ratio of leaves in a habitat can predict folivore biomass. Here we present an experimental test of this protein-to-fiber model to assess if the number of infant monkeys per female and group size can be predicted based on the leaf chemistry of a habitat. We expected regenerating forest in Kibale National Park, Uganda to have leaves with higher concentrations of crude protein and lower concentrations of fiber than old-growth forest trees, and consequently, we expected a greater number of infants per female in the folivorous red colobus ( Procolobus rufomitratus) with access to this area. As predicted, regenerating forests did have trees with leaves with high concentrations of protein and low concentrations of fiber, but there was no corresponding change in the demographic structure of red colobus groups. We also tested whether energy was a potential determinant of these parameters, but found no evidence for its importance. Our findings support recent studies that are critical of the protein-to-fiber model, which lead us to question the model's generality, particularly for conservation and management.
Spatial Variation in Population Density of an Endemic and Endangered Bird, the Cauca Guan (Penelope Perspicax)
Authors: Kattan Gustavo H. , Roncancio Néstor , Banguera Yurany , Kessler-Rios Margarita , Londoño Gustavo A. , Marín Oscar Humberto , Muñoz Marcia C.
Published: October 2016

Endemic species tend to be habitat specialists with low population densities, but densities may vary among sites and may be temporally dynamic. In addition, species may exhibit plasticity in habitat use, with the result that densities vary in different habitats. The Cauca Guan ( Penelope perspicax) is an endangered species endemic to the mid-Cauca Valley in Colombia. To assess spatial variation in population densities, we surveyed different habitat types (mature and secondary forest, early regeneration, and vegetation strips along streams) in three sites and compared them to densities reported in previous studies to explore possible changes over a period of several years. At the three sites, densities varied between 10 and 40 birds/km2 in different habitats. Variation in population density may be related to forest area and habitat productivity, but guans are known to move among locales and regions in response to temporal fluctuations in resource availability. Cauca Guan densities are comparable to those of other montane Penelopine guans with broader geographic distributions. Although the Cauca Guan is not a habitat specialist and may reach high densities under some conditions, globally this guan remains rare and efforts for its conservation should be sustained.
Conservation Interests of Applying Spatial Distribution Modelling to Large Vagile Neotropical Mammals
Authors: Clément Luc , Catzeflis François , Richard-Hansen Cécile , Barrioz Sébastien , de Thoisy Benoit
Published: October 2016

Species Distribution Models (SDMs) have become increasingly useful for conservation issues. Initially designed to predict distributions of species from incomplete datasets, SDMs may also identify environmental conditions associated with higher occurrences and abundances of widely distributed taxa. Using sighting records of 15 widely distributed mammals from French Guiana, including primates, carnivores, rodents and ungulates, we used three SDMs –based on (i) entropy, (ii) genetic algorithm, (iii) Mahalanobis distance – to investigate relationships between species occurrence and predictive variables such as vegetation, biogeographic units, climate, and disturbance index. Maximal entropy procedures resulted in more accurate projected conditions: the accuracy of the predicted distributions was higher than 90% in nine species among the 15 tested, and predicted occurrences were correlated to field-measured abundances for nine species. The Genetic algorithm implemented with GARP had lower accuracy, with predicted occurrences correlated to abundances for three species only. Finally, Mahalanobis distance had a much lower performance and failed to find any correlation between occurrences and abundances. In the case of MaxEnt modelling, since map projection summarized more appropriate environmental conditions and identified areas likely to act as sources and/or corridors, we propose to use those appropriate environmental conditions as a proxy of conductance for landscape connectivity planning. We provide evidence here that SDMs can identify not only more suitable environmental conditions, but also areas hosting higher abundances for a large set of species with key ecological roles. Further management applications of this environmental suitability index could help in designing corridors between protected areas.
Ecological Traits of Phyllostomid Bats Associated with Sensitivity to Tropical Forest Fragmentation in Los Chimalapas, Mexico
Authors: García-García José Luis , Santos-Moreno Antonio , Kraker-Castañeda Cristian
Published: October 2016

Certain ecological traits of bats may be associated with sensitivity to the fragmentation of their habitat, but the relative importance of this is unclear and has been poorly studied in tropical environments. We evaluated the relationship between six ecological traits of phyllostomid bats (body mass, trophic level, vertical foraging area, natural abundance in continuous forest, wing aspect ratio, and relative wing loading) and three measures of sensitivity to habitat fragmentation (species prevalence, change in abundance index, and nestedness ranking) in a fragmented forest in Los Chimalapas, Mexico. Ecological traits were obtained from 20 bat species for a period of 2 years, and their relationship with measures of sensitivity to fragmentation was analyzed using Generalized Linear Models. The analysis suggests that naturally non-abundant species ( e.g., Salvin's Big-eyed Bat [ Chiroderma salvini]) have a greater risk of population decline because of habitat fragmentation. In contrast, abundant species such as Jamaican Fruit-eating Bat ( Artibeus jamaicensis) will likely be less affected. The identification of these traits in studies of tropical bat conservation is fundamental to determine species-specific decline risk due to habitat fragmentation.
A Re-Assessment of Priority Amphibian Species of Peru
Authors: Jarvis Laurence E. , Angulo Ariadne , Catenazzi Alessandro , von May Rudolf , Brown Jason L. , Lehr Edgar , Lewis James
Published: October 2016

Peru supports approximately 588 amphibian species, of which 492 have been assessed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Of these, 111 are classified as Threatened, with 69 species classified as Critically Endangered or Endangered. In addition, 140 amphibian species remain Data Deficient. We re-assessed the conservation status of 38 amphibian species originally identified as potentially Threatened by von May et al. (2008), using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. Fourteen species assessments changed as a result of re-assessment, of which eight changed from Data Deficient to Threatened; two changed from Data Deficient to Near Threatened and Least Concern respectively; two were up-listed from Least Concern to a Threatened status; two were down-listed. None of the changes were due to a known genuine change since the previous assessment. All changes were justified by an increase in knowledge. The eight species with a change from Data Deficient to a Threatened category belonged to four anuran families: Craugastoridae, Dendrobatidae, Hemiphractidae and Telmatobiidae. The reasons for a change in assessment status were: changes in taxonomy, distribution, population status, threat status, or previously incorrect information. The main threat affecting re-assessed amphibian species was habitat loss, with other threats including pollution, disease outbreaks, and collection for the pet trade. Only 53% of the re-assessed species were found to occur in a protected area. Findings of this study indicate the continuing fragility of many Peruvian amphibians and highlight the need for improving their protection and for further research into their population status and threats.
The Discovery of Two Spotted Leopards (Panthera Pardus) in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Wei Cedric Tan Kai , Moore Jonathan , Saaban Salman bin , Campos-Arceiz Ahimsa , Macdonald David W.
Published: October 2016

We discovered the presence of two individual spotted leopards Panthera pardus in Ulu Muda Forest Reserve, a previously under-researched selectively logged rainforest of Peninsular Malaysia. These findings are unexpected, because only two other studies have detected the spotted morph amongst many other melanistic leopards caught on camera traps in Peninsular Malaysia. We discuss the implications of our findings with respect to the prevalence of melanism among leopards in the region.
The Impacts of Oil Palm Agriculture on Colombia's Biodiversity: What We Know and Still Need to Know
Authors: Vargas Lain Efren Pardo , Laurance William F. , Clements Gopalasamy Reuben , Edwards Will
Published: October 2016

The inexorable expansion of oil palm plantations has been a major driver of biodiversity loss in the tropics. This is particularly evident in Malaysia and Indonesia, where the majority of the world's oil palm is cultivated. In Latin America oil palm acreage has also been steadily increasing, especially in countries such as Colombia, the largest producer by far. However, information on the biological implications of rapid land conversion to oil palm in the region remains scarce. Here, we review the state of knowledge about the impacts of oil palm on biodiversity in Colombia. We also discuss the conservation strategies that have been implemented in the country, and propose research that we need to develop best management practices. The vast majority of research has focused on biotechnology, soils, biological pest control, carbon stock and reduction of greenhouse gases emission, but research on biodiversity is very scarce, or is not published yet. However, important investment and research on this topic are being developed. The most threatened ecosystems are the savannas in the Orinoquia region, where most of the expansion is predicted. The demands for green markets and certification are slowly encouraging oil palm corporations to mitigate their ‘biological footprint‘. However, applied research on the possible impacts of oil palm on biodiversity are urgently needed to support conservation efforts in the oil-palm-dominated landscapes of Colombia, along with commitments by the government and companies to adopt the resulting recommendations.
Bird Community Diversity in three Habitat Types in an Ecological Corridor in the Atlantic Forest of Misiones Province, Argentina
Authors: Barzan Flavia Romina , Baigorria Julián Martín Emanuel , Bó Roberto Fabián
Published: October 2016

The Atlantic Forest is one of the most threatened biodiversity hotspots in the world due to habitat fragmentation. Restoration and connectivity of forest fragments are crucial to maintain viable populations of forest-dependent species. During winter and summer, we studied the bird diversity, its components and composition (including specialist and generalist species) in three different vegetation types: mature forest (MF), secondary forest (SF) and grassland (G) of an ecological corridor in Misiones, Argentina. We determined the influence of alpha diversity (of each habitat) and beta diversity (species turnover between habitats) on gamma diversity (regional diversity in the corridor), to provide conservation management recommendations. MF showed the highest values of bird diversity, richness, evenness and abundance, followed by SF and G, in both seasons. Only MF showed a possible seasonal variation in diversity and richness. The species composition of SF was similar to MF. However, G, where pasture specialist and edge species were the most common species recorded (70% of its avifauna), had very low similarity to MF, where the most forest specialist species were found (53%). As alpha diversities were higher than beta values, the bird diversity in the studied corridor mainly resulted from the diversity in each vegetation type, in both studied seasons. We therefore recommend preservation of both MF and recovering SF due to their high bird diversity and the presence of forest-dependent, threatened and endemic bird species. We also urge the creation of ecological corridors between protected forest remnants of the Atlantic Forest.