ULTRASONIC VELOCITIES, DENSITIES AND EXCESS THERMODYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF BINARY MIXTURES OF O - CHLOROPHENOL WITH HIGHER ALKANOLS FROM 303.15 TO 318.15K

The ultrasonic velocities U, densities ? of Binary Mixtures of O - Chlorophenol with 1- hexanol, 1- heptanol and 1- octanol from 303.15 to 318.15K. Excess molar volume (VE), deviation in adiabatic compressibility (??ad) and excess intermolecular free length (LfE) have been calculated from the measured experimental data. The values of VE, ??ad and LfEhave been fitted to Redlich – Kister polynomial equation to estimate binary coefficients and standard deviation between the experimental and computed values.

Age-related changes in macular vessels and their perfusion densities on optical coherence tomography angiography

Purpose: To evaluate age-related changes in macular vessels and their perfusion densities using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods: A total of 108 eyes of 54 healthy subjects between the age group of 11 to 60 years having unaided visual acuity of 20/20 were studied on spectral domain OCTS using 3 * 3 mm macula protocol. These subjects were divided into 5 groups; Group 1: 11–20 years, Group 2: 21–30 years, Group 3: 31–40 years, Group 4: 41–50 years, and Group 5: 51–60 years. An early treatment diabetic retinopathy study (ETDRS) grid overlay at the macula was used to calculate changes in different quadrants of the superficial retinal plexus. Results: A total of 98 eyes of 49 patients were considered for the final analysis. The vessel density values decreased from the second to the sixth decade in all four quadrants (except the third decade, where a slight increase was noted). The total vessel density decreased from 168 ± 78 mm-1 (group 1) to 131.47 ± 18.32 mm-1 (group 5). A similar reduction pattern in perfusion density was seen in each quadrant from the second to the sixth decade. The total perfusion density reduced from 309 ± 15.63% (group 1) to 283.05 ± 45.23% (group 5). The foveal avascular zone area was 0.18 ± 0.09 mm2 in group 1, 0.33 ± 0.13 mm2 in group 2, 0.30 ± 0.10 mm2 in group 3, 0.38 ± 0.05 mm2 in group 4, and 0.46 ± 0.06 mm2 in group 5. Conclusion: In our population, macular vessel density appears to decrease noticeably from the fourth decade onwards but a statistically significant decrease was observed only from the fifth decade onwards. However, it was not uniform along with all the quadrants. Similarly, the percentage of perfusion density dropped from the fourth decade but these values also varied among the different quadrants.

Influence of an alternative implant design and surgical protocol on primary stability

Abstract The purpose of thisin vitrostudy was to evaluate the influence of a new proposal of implant design and surgical protocol on primary stability in different bone densities. Four groups were tested (n=9): G1 - tapered, cone morse, Ø 4.3 mm x 10 mm in length (Alvim CM); G2 - experimental tapered; G3 - cylindrical, cone morse, Ø 4.0 mm x 11 mm in length (Titamax CM) and G4 - experimental cylindrical. The experimental implants were obtained from a design change in the respective commercial models. The insertion was performed in polyurethane (PU) blocks 0.24 g/cm3(20 pcf) and 0.64 g/cm3(40 pcf), according to different surgical protocols. The primary stability was measured by means of insertion torque (IT) and pullout test. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, Tukey's test (α=0.05) and Pearson's correlation. For IT and pullout, conventional and experimental implants showed no difference between them when inserted in the 20 pcf PU (p>0.05). In the 40 pcf PU, the modified implants exhibited greater IT (p<0.05) and lower pullout (p<0.05) compared to the respective conventional models. The implant design tested associated with the surgical protocol, positively influenced primary stability in higher density bones.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo in vitro foi avaliar a influência de uma nova proposta de design de implante e protocolo cirúrgico na estabilidade primária em diferentes densidades ósseas. Foram testados quatro grupos (n=9): G1 - cônico, cone morse, Ø 4,3 mm x 10 mm de comprimento (Alvim CM); G2 - experimental cônico; G3 - cilíndrico, cone morse, Ø 4,0 mm x 11 mm de comprimento (Titamax CM) e G4 - experimental cilíndrico. Os implantes experimentais foram obtidos a partir de uma mudança no design dos respectivos modelos comerciais. A inserção foi realizada em blocos de poliuretano (PU) 0,24 g/cm3 (20 pcf) e 0,64 g/cm3 (40 pcf), de acordo com diferentes protocolos cirúrgicos. A estabilidade primária foi aferida por meio do torque de inserção (TI) e ensaio de arrancamento. Os dados foram analisados por ANOVA, teste de Tukey (α=0,05) e correlação de Pearson. Para TI e arrancamento, os implantes convencionais e experimentais não mostraram diferença entre si quando inseridos na PU de 20 pcf (p>0,05). Na PU de 40 pcf, os implantes modificados exibiram maior TI (p <0,05) e menor arrancamento (p <0,05) em relação aos respectivos modelos convencionais. O design do implante testado associado ao protocolo cirúrgico, influenciou positivamente a estabilidade primária em ossos de maior densidade.

Stomatal density, leaf area and plant size variation of Rhizophora mangle (Malpighiales: Rhizophoraceae) along a salinity gradient in the Mexican Caribbean / Variación en la densidad estomática, área foliar y tamaño de Rhizophora mangle (Malpighiales: Rhizophoraceae) a lo largo de un gradiente de salinidad en el Caribe Mexicano

AbstractIn community ecology, the knowledge of abiotic factors, that determine intraspecific variability in ecophysiological and functional traits, is important for addressing major questions, such as plant community assembly and ecosystem functioning. Mangroves have several mechanisms of resistance to salinity and most species exhibit some xeromorphic features in order to conserve water. Leaf area and stomatal density play an important role in maintaining water balance, and gas exchange is regulated by their aperture and density, two traits that vary intraspecifically in response to environmental conditions, such as water stress and salinity. In this study, we evaluated the effects of salinity on stomatal density, leaf area and plant size in R. mangle and we tested for associations among the three variables, across three sites along a natural salinity gradient in the XelHá Park, Quintana Roo, Mexico. We hypothesized that high salinity sites would produce smaller plants, with smaller leaves, and fewer stomata. Three sampling sites with different environmental conditions were chosen and salinities were monitored monthly. A total of 542 plants were tagged and tree heights and diameters were measured for each individual within each of the three sampling sites. Three leaves from 20 trees from each site were measured to determine leaf area. Stomatal densities were determined in each leaf using nail polish casts, examining ten 1 mm squares per leaf under an optical microscope. A principal component analysis was used to assess association between tree height, leaf area, and stomatal density for each plot. The salinity gradient was reflected in plant size, producing smaller plants at the higher salinity site. The largest leaves were found at the low salinity site (51.2 ± 24.99 cm2). Leaf length was not correlated to plant size (LL vs. tree height: r= 0.02, P= 0.8205; LL vs. trunk diameter: r= 0.03, P= 0.7336), so we concluded that leaf length is an environmentally plastic trait of red mangroves that may vary as a function of environmental conditions, such as hydric stress caused by elevated salinity. The larger leaves from the low salinity site had lower densities of stomata (65.0 stomata.mm2 SD= 12.3), and increasing salinities did not decrease stomatal density (intermediate salinity site: 73.4 stomata.mm2 SD= 13.5; high salinity site: 74.8 stomata.mm2 SD= 17.3). Our results confirm that stomatal density is inversely related to leaf area (r= -0.29, P < 0.001), especially leaf width (r= -0.31, P < 0.001), and that salinity may increase stomatal density by causing reduction of leaf size.

ResumenLos manglares tienen varios mecanismos de resistencia salina y la mayoría de las especies presentan algunas características xeromórficas con el fin de conservar el agua. El tamaño de la hoja y la densidad de los estomas desempeñan un papel importante en el mantenimiento del equilibrio hídrico. El intercambio de gases puede mediarse mediante la regulación de la apertura de los estomas, así como el número de estomas sobre la epidermis, dos características que pueden variar intraespecíficamente en función las condiciones ambientales, tales como el estrés hídrico. Rhizophora mangle es una de las especies de mayor importancia en América del Norte y Sur, y de África occidental. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar los efectos de la salinidad sobre la densidad de los estomas, el tamaño de la hoja y el tamaño de las plantas de Rhizophora mangle y determinar si existe una relación entre las tres variables, comparándose tres ambientes diferentes a lo largo de un gradiente natural de salinidad en Xel-Há, Quintana Roo, México. La hipótesis fue que los ambientes de alta salinidad producirían plantas más pequeñas, con hojas más pequeñas y menos estomas. Se seleccionaron tres sitios de estudio con condiciones ambientales diferentes y se midió la salinidad cada mes. Un total de 542 plantas fueron etiquetadas en los tres sitios, y se midió su altura y diámetro del tronco. Se recolectaron tres hojas de 20 árboles en cada uno de los sitios, y se obtuvo el área de cada hoja. La densidad estomática se midió mediante la técnica de microrelieve con barniz de uñas, observando diez 1 mm cuadrados bajo un microscopio óptico. Se utilizó un análisis de componentes principales para determinar la asociación entre altura de árbol, área de hoja y densidad estomática. El gradiente de salinidad se vio reflejado en el tamaño de las plantas, produciendo plantas más pequeñas en el sitio de alta salinidad. El largo de las hojas no se correlacionó con el tamaño de las plantas, por lo cual se concluyó que esta variable tiene plasticidad ambiental particular. Las hojas más grandes fueron encontradas en el sitio de baja salinidad y tuvieron densidades estomáticas menores. No se pudo observar que la densidad de estomas disminuyera con las altas salinidades. Estos resultados confirman que la densidad estomática es inversamente relacionada con el tamaño de la hoja, especialmente el ancho, y que la densidad estomática incrementa con la salinidad debido a la reducción del tamaño de hoja.

Consorciação e manejo de Brachiaria decumbens em mudas de cafeeiros infestados com Pratylenchus brachyurus em condições de casa de vegetação / Intercropping and management of Brachiaria decumbens in coffee seedlings infested with Pratylenchus brachyurus under greenhouse conditions

Com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito da consorciação e manejo de Brachiaria decumbenscv. 'Basilisk' em cafeeiro (Coffea arabicacv. 'Catuaí Vermelho') infestado por Pratylenchus brachyurus(Pb), o presente experimento foi desenvolvido em condições de casa de vegetação. Os tratamentos utilizados, com cinco repetições, foram: 1. Café não inoculado no limpo; 2. Café não inoculado consorciado com B. decumbens; 3. Café inoculado com 5000 juvenis e adultos de Pb por vaso (10L), no limpo; 4. Café inoculado com Pb consorciado com B. decumbenspodadas semanalmente; 5. Café inoculado com Pb consorciado com B. decumbenscom aplicação do herbicida glifosato. Aos 3, 4, 7, 10 e 11 meses após transplante dos cafeeiros, houve um aumento significativo na altura das plantas de cafeeiro sem nematoide mantidas no limpo, comparadas com os tratamentos com cafeeiros em solo infestado com Pb consorciado com B. decumbenspodadas e café em solo infestado com Pb consorciado com B. decumbenscom aplicação de glifosato. Na avaliação final, realizada 278 dias após à inoculação das plantas, o peso da matéria seca da parte aérea nos tratamentos com Pb consorciado com braquiária e com aplicação de glifosato apresentaram menores valores, quando comparado com a testemunha sem nematoide e sem plantas consorciadas. Com relação ao peso da matéria fresca das raízes, todos os tratamentos foram significativamente mais baixos do que a testemunha sem nematoide e sem consorciação. A população final de P. brachyurusnas raízes foi maior quando o café foi consorciado com braquiária.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of intercropping and management of Brachiaria decumbenscv. 'Basilisk' in coffee (Coffea arabicacv. 'Catuai vermelho') infested withPratylenchus brachyurus(Pb), under greenhouse conditions. The treatments with five replicates were: 1. Coffee without Pb; 2. Coffee without Pb and intercropped with B. decumbens; 3. Coffee inoculated with 5000 juveniles and adults Pb per pot (10L) kept in clean; 4. Coffee inoculated with Pb intercropped with B. decumbenspruned weekly; 5. Coffee inoculated with Pb intercropped with B. decumbenswith application of the herbicide glyphosate. At 3, 4, 7, 10 and 11 months after transplantation of coffee plants ,there was a significant increase in the height of coffee plants without nematode kept in clean, compared with treatments with coffee in infested soil with Pb intercropped with B. decumbenspruned and coffee in soil infested with Pb intercropped with B. decumbenswith application of glyphosate. In the final evaluation, 278 days after inoculation , the dry weight of shoots in treatments with Pb and brachiaria and application of glyphosate were significantly lower when compared with untreated plants without nematode and intercropping. The weight of fresh roots, was significantly lower in all treatments compared to the control untreated plot. and without intercropping. The final population of P. brachyurusin roots was greater when coffee was intercropped with B. decumbens.

Comparison of Content of Eucalyptol in Artemisia argyi of 5 Different Planting Densities / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE:To compare the contents of eucalyptol in Artemisia argyi of 5 different planting densities. METH-ODS:Gas chromatography method was performed on the column of HP-5 capillary column,and cyclohexanone was selected as in-ternal standard,the carrier gas was nitrogen at a flow rate of 0.6 ml/min,the volume temperature was 240℃,the detector tempera-ture was 250 ℃,the split ratio was 10∶1,and the injection volume was 1 μl. RESULTS:The linear range of eucalyptol was 0.420 4-1.261 2 mg/ml(r=0.999 9);RSDs of precision,stability and reproducibility tests were no more than 0.92%;average recovery was 99.6%(RSD=1.4%,n=6). CONCLUSIONS:The method is simple,rapid,accurate,reliable and reproducible,and can be used for the content determination of eucalyptol in A. argyi. The optimal planting density of A. argyi was spaced 30 cm×40 cm.

Analysis of antibiotics recipe in hospital in the context of special rectification / 重庆医学

Objective To investigate the antibiotics recipe in one third‐grade hospital from January to December 2012 and to pro‐vide reference for clinical rational use and effective management of antibiotics .Methods The defined daily dose(DDD) was treated as analysis unit ,and the total DDDs was calculated .The antibiotics use densities(AUD) were calculated by the value of DDD per 100 days person .Results The average value of AUD in 2012 was 49 .84 ,compared to the first half of the year ,the second half at‐tended to decrease .Qualification rate was 91 .8% for the investigated antibiotics recipe .Conclusion The use density of antibiotics was medium in the investigated hospital in 2012 .The date of usage of antibacterial drugs showed a steady trend and to be more rea‐sonable during the clinical use of antimicrobial agents special rectification activities .

Influence of poultry litter and plant density on the production and chemical composition of the essential oil of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi fruits / Influência da cama-de-frango e densidade de plantas na produção e composição química do óleo essencial de frutos de Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi

The aim of this study was to evaluate the production and chemical composition of the essential oil of Brazilian pepper fruits grown in single and double rows using different doses of semi decomposed poultry litter in two evaluation times. The experiment was carried out at the Federal University of Grande Dourados, in the city of Dourados, state o- Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, from October 2009 to November 2010. Brazilian pepper plants were grown in single and double rows in soil with incorporated poultry litter at the doses of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 t ha-1. Treatments were arranged as a 2 x 5 factorial experiment in a randomized block design with four replications. Fruits were harvested 180 and 390 days after transplant (DAT). There was a significant interaction for fresh weight of fruits and weight of 50 fruits, being the values higher at 180 DAT in the double rows with increasing poultry litter doses. Fruits harvested 390 DAT showed higher diameter compared with those harvested 180 DAT. The number of fruits per bunch was significantly influenced by the doses of poultry litter, presenting a linear increase with increasing doses. The essential oil of the Brazilian pepper fruits obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by Gas chromatography - mass spectrometry exhibited predominance of monoterpenes, highlighting α-pinene (20.14%) as the major constituent. The chemical composition of the essential oil was not influenced by the number of plant rows in the plot or by the doses of poultry litter in any evaluation time. Therefore, the cultivation of Brazilian pepper plants is recommended in double rows, with 13.59 t ha-1 of incorporated poultry litter in the soi, and with harvest of 180 DAT for higher fruit production.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a produção e composição química do óleo essencial de frutos de pimenta-rosa cultivados em fileira simples e dupla com diferentes doses de cama-de-frango semidecomposta em duas épocas de avaliação. O experimento foi realizado na Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados, em Dourados/MS, de outubro de 2009 a novembro de 2010. Plantas de pimenta-rosa foram cultivadas em fileira simples e dupla, em solo com cama-de-frango incorporada nas doses de 0, 5, 10, 15 e 20 t ha-1. Os tratamentos foram arranjados em fatorial 2 x 5, em delineamento de blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições. Os frutos foram colhidos aos 180 e 390 dias após o transplante (DAT). Houve interação significativa para peso fresco de frutos e peso de 50 frutos, sendo os valores maiores aos 180 DAT nas plantas cultivadas em fileira dupla, relacionado com o aumento das doses de cama-de-frango. Os frutos colhidos aos 390 DAT apresentaram maior diâmetro comparado com aqueles coletados aos 180 DAT. O número de frutos por cacho foi influenciado significativamente pelas doses de cama-de-frango, tendo aumento linear em função do aumento das doses. O óleo essencial dos frutos de pimenta-rosa obtido por hidrodestilação e analisado por cromatografia gasosa-espectrometria de massas exibiu predominância de monoterpenos, apresentando como principal constituinte o α-pineno (20,14%). A composição química do óleo essencial não foi influenciada pelo número de fileiras de plantas na parcela, nem pelas doses de cama-de-frango, em nenhuma das épocas de avaliação. Portanto, para maior produção de frutos recomenda-se o cultivo de plantas de pimenta-rosa em fileira dupla e 13.59 t ha-1 de cama-de-frango incorporada ao solo com colheita aos 180 DAT.

Segmentação automática 2D de vias aéreas em imagens de tomografia computadorizada do tórax / Automatic 2D segmentation of airways in thorax computed tomography images

INTRODUÇÃO: Grande parte da população mundial é afetada por doenças pulmonares, como é o caso das broncopatias constituídas pela asma, bronquiectasia e a bronquite. O diagnóstico de broncopatias é baseado no estado das vias aéreas. Neste sentido, a segmentação automática das vias aéreas em imagens de Tomografia Computadorizada (TC) do tórax é uma etapa fundamental para auxílio ao diagnóstico dessas doenças. MÉTODOS: O presente trabalho avalia algoritmos e desenvolve métodos de segmentação automática das vias aéreas 2D. Tais métodos são compostos por algoritmos de detecção de vias aéreas, sendo estes rede neural Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) e Análise de Densidades Pulmonares (ADP), e por algoritmos de segmentação de vias aéreas, sendo estes Crescimento de Região (CR), Método de Contornos Ativos (MCA) Balão e Topológico Adaptativo. RESULTADOS: Os resultados foram obtidos em três etapas: análise comparativa entre os algoritmos de detecção MLP e ADP, com um padrão-ouro adquirido por três médicos com expertise em imagens de TC do tórax; análise comparativa entre algoritmos de segmentação MCA balão, MCA topológico adaptativo, MLP e CR; e avaliação das possíveis combinações entre os algoritmos de detecção e segmentação, resultando no método completo para segmentação automática das vias aéreas em 2D. CONCLUSÃO: A baixa incidência de falso-negativo e a redução significativa de falso-positivo, resulta em coeficiente de similaridade e sensibilidade superior a 91% e 87% respectivamente, para uma combinação dos algoritmos, com qualidade de segmentação satisfatória.

INTRODUCTION: Much of the world population is affected by pulmonary diseases, such as the bronchial asthma, bronchitis and bronchiectasis. The bronchial diagnosis is based on the airways state. In this sense, the automatic segmentation of the airways in Computed Tomography (CT) scans is a critical step in the aid to diagnosis of these diseases. METHODS: This paper evaluates algorithms for airway automatic segmentation, using Neural Network Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) and Lung Densities Analysis (LDA) for detecting airways, along with Region Growing (RG), Active Contour Method (ACM) Balloon and Topology Adaptive to segment them. RESULTS: We obtained results in three stages: comparative analysis of the detection algorithms MLP and LDA, with a gold standard acquired by three physicians with expertise in CT imaging of the chest; comparative analysis of segmentation algorithms ACM Balloon, ACM Topology Adaptive, MLP and RG; and evaluation of possible combinations between segmentation and detection algorithms, resulting in the complete method for automatic segmentation of the airways in 2D. CONCLUSION: The low incidence of false negative and the significant reduction of false positive, results in similarity coefficient and sensitivity exceeding 91% and 87% respectively, for a combination of algorithms with satisfactory segmentation quality.

Relative water content as influenced by varied plant densities and irrigation levels in pigeonpea.

A field experiment was conducted on a sandy clay soil at Agricultural Research Station, Basanthpur, Medak district of Andhra Pradesh during the kharif seasons of 2009-‘10 and 2010-’11 to study the variation in relative water content (RWC) of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L) Mill Sp.) as influenced by plant densities and supplemental irrigation through drip. Three varied plant densities of pigeonpea (D1–55,555 plants ha- 1, D2–41,666 plants ha-1 and D3–33,333 plants ha-1) were tested as 3 main treatments with 4 irrigation levels as sub treatments involving control (I1 - rainfed), drip irrigation at flowering with 20 mm depth of water (I2), drip irrigation at pod development with 20 mm depth of water (I3) and drip irrigation at flowering and pod development with 20 mm depth of water at each stage, respectively (I4). The RWC was estimated at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105, 120, 135, 150, 165 days after sowing and at harvest. Daily evaporation and rainfall were also recorded at the experimental site. The crop in lower plant density of D3 had higher relative water content in comparison to D2, intermediate and D1, higher plant densities at flowering and pod development stages irrespective of the irrigation treatments imposed. Further, supplemental irrigation at flowering and pod formation stages showed marginal rise in the relative water content irrespective of densities. Lowest relative water content was recorded under nonirrigated rainfed control (I1) at higher plant densities of D1 both at flowering and pod development stages.

Abundancia y distribución de larvas de Strombus gigas (Mesogastropoda: Strombidae) durante el período reproductivo de la especie en el Caribe Mexicano / Abundance and distribution of Strombus gigas (Mesogastropoda: Strombidae) larvae during their reproductive period in the Mexican Caribbean

Abundance and distribution of Strombus gigas (Mesogastropoda: Strombidae) larvae during their reproductive period in the Mexican Caribbean. The Queen Conch (Strombus gigas Linnaeus, 1758) is a species of economic importance in the Caribbean Sea, which, in the 1980’s represented the second fishery after de spiny lobster, reason that is currently in a state of overfishing. In order to determine the larval abundance variation during the reproductive season, four locations of the Mexican Caribbean “MC” (Mexico: Puerto Morelos, Sian Ka’an, Mahahual; Belize: San Pedro) were sampled. Monthly, from May to October 2008, planktonic net drags (300μm) were carried out at each location. Temperature (°C), salinity (ppm) and dissolved oxygen (mg L-1) were recorded for each site. A mean larval density of 0.34±0.87 (larvae 10 m-3) was registered between locations, with a peak in August and September (0.82±1.00 and 0.76±1.68 larvae 10m-3, respectively). The larval density was 60% correlated with salinity (r=0.6063, p<0.05). A one-way ANOVA showed significant statistical larval density in time (p<0.05) and space (p<0.05), where Puerto Morelos displayed the higher records during the study (0.54±1.49 larvae 10m-3). An average larval size of 332.44±59.66µm was recorded. Larval sizes differed significantly between locations (p<0.05), but not considering months (p>0.05). A 100% of the captured larvae correspond to stage I, showing local reproductive activity, that might indicate the sampled sites in the MC are a source of larvae to S. gigas. Rev. Biol. Trop. 60 (Suppl. 1): 89-97. Epub 2012 March 01.

El caracol rosa (Strombus gigas, Linnaeus, 1758) es una especie de importancia económica en el Mar Caribe, por lo cual, en la década de 1980 representó la segunda pesquería después de la langosta espinosa, razón por la que actualmente se encuentra en estado de sobrepesca. Con el objetivo de determinar la variación en la abundancia de larvas durante la época reproductiva, cuatro localidades del Caribe Mexicano “CM” (México: Puerto Morelos, Sian Ka’an, Mahahual; Belice: San Pedro) fueron muestreadas. Mensualmente, de mayo a octubre del 2008, se realizaron arrastres de plancton en cada localidad empleando una red cónica (300μm). Temperatura (°C), salinidad (ppm) y oxígeno disuelto (mg L-1) fueron registrados para cada sitio. Una densidad media larval de 0.34±0.87 larvas•10m-3 fue registrada entre localidades, con un pico de abundancia entre agosto y septiembre (0.82±1.00 y 0.76±1.68 larvas 10m-3, respectivamente). La densidad larval tuvo una correlación del 60% con la salinidad (r=0.6063, p<0.05). El ANOVA de una vía mostró significancia estadística en tiempo (p<0.05) y espacio (p<0.05), donde Puerto Morelos tuvo los mayores registros durante el estudio (0.54±1.49 larvas 10m-3). Fue registrada una talla media de 332.44±59.66µm. Las tallas variaron significativamente entre localidades (p<0.05), pero no entre meses (p>0.05). El 100% de las larvas capturadas corresponden al estadio I definido por Davis et al (1993), mostrando actividad reproductiva local, de esta manera, se considera que los sitios muestreados en el CM son fuente de larvas para la especie S. gigas.

Trophic ecology of the freshwater prawn, Pseudopalaemon bouvieri (Decapoda: Palaemonidae) in Northeastern Argentina: with remarks on population structure

Freshwater decapod crustaceans are important components of food webs in these environments, but little is known about the diet of species that live in tropical waters. We studied the feeding ecology of the prawn Pseudopalaemon bouvieri and its population structure in two different areas with six lagoons, with a different composition and abundance of aquatic macrophytes. At each site of macrophytes banks, 18 prawns sample was collected with a hand net (1mm mesh size) from 1m². In the laboratory, prawns cephalothorax length was measured, sex determined, and a total of 208 stomachs were examined for food items. Our results showed that the population abundance varied between 10 ind/m² and 1 411 ind/m². The cephalothorax length ranged between 6mm and 21mm, and the male:female ratio varied between 0.3 and 1.0, with a higher proportion of ovigerous females (21%) in area one than area two. P. bouvieri is omnivorous, and its diet was principally based on algae, plant remains, Protozoa, Rotifera, Oligochaeta, Crustacea, Insecta, detritus and other items. The analysis of the stomach content did not reveal any significant difference in the diet between juveniles and adults, and males and females of both areas consumed a similar diet (Kruskal-Wallis test p=0.8273). We concluded that the dietary items consumed by prawns and the niche breadth were similar between the two areas, although the proportion of items consumed varied between lagoons of both areas. The density of P. bouvieri was different between areas, but the size of cephalothorax (CL) was similar.

Los crustáceos decápodos de agua dulce son un componente importante de la cadena trófica, pero poco se sabe sobre la dieta de las especies que viven en aguas tropicales. Nosotros estudiamos la ecología alimentaria del camarón Pseudopalaemon bouvieri y la estructura de su población en dos áreas diferentes con seis lagunas, con una diferente composición y abundancia de macrófitas acuáticas. En cada sitio poblado con macrófitas, se tomaron 18 muestras con una red manual (1mm de tamaño de malla) de 1m². En laboratorio, se midió la longitud de cefalotórax de los camarones y se determinó el sexo. Asimismo, fueron examinados un total de 208 estómagos para determinar su alimentación. Nuestros resultados mostraron que la abundancia de la población varió entre 10 ind/m² y 1 411 ind/ m². La longitud de cefalotórax osciló entre 6 y 21mm, y la razón macho:hembra varió entre 0.3 y 1.0, con una mayor proporción de hembras ovígeras (21%) en el área 1 que en el área 2. P. bouvieri es omnívoro y su alimentación se basa principalmente en algas, restos de plantas, protozoos, rotíferos, Oligochaeta, crustáceos, Insecta, detrito y otros ítems. El análisis del contenido estomacal no reveló ninguna diferencia significativa en la dieta entre juveniles y adultos, y los machos y hembras de ambas áreas consumieron una dieta similar (Kruskal-Wallis, p=0.8273). Nosotros concluimos que los ítems alimentarios consumidos por los camarones y la amplitud de nicho fueron similares entre las dos áreas, aunque la proporción de ítems consumidos varió entre lagunas de ambas áreas. La densidad de P. bouvieri fue diferente entre áreas, pero el tamaño del cefalotórax (CL) fue similar.

Modelo de contorno ativo crisp: nova técnica de segmentação dos pulmões em imagens de TC / Active contour modes crisp: new technique for segmentation the lungs in CT images

Este trabalho propõe um novo método de contornos ativos (MCA), chamado de MCA Crisp, e o avalia na segmentação dos pulmões em imagens de Tomografia Computadorizada (TC). O MCA consiste em traçar uma curva inicial em torno ou dentro de um objeto de interesse. Esta curva se deforma, conforme algumas energias que atuam sobre a mesma, deslocando-a até as bordas do objeto. Este processo é realizado por iterações sucessivas de minimização de uma dada energia, associada à curva. Aplicando MCAs descritos na literatura na segmentação dos pulmões em imagens de TC, constatam-se limitações. Neste contexto, propõe‑-se o MCA Crisp para suprir tais limitações, propondo uma inicialização automática e uma nova energia externa baseada em regras e nas densidades radiológicas pulmonares. Realiza-se uma comparação entre os MCAs Tradicional, Balão, GVF e o método proposto para demonstrar a superioridade do novo método. Em seguida, para validar o MCA Crisp realiza-se uma análise qualitativa junto a um médico especialista na área de Pneumologia do Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio da Universidade Federal do Ceará. Nesta análise, são utilizados 100  pulmões em imagens de TC. A eficiência da segmentação foi avaliada em  5 categorias, obtendo os seguintes resultados:   73% ótimas, sem falhas, 20% aceitáveis, com pequenos erros, 7% razoáveis, com erros grosseiros e  0% ruim, segmentando apenas uma pequena parte do pulmão, e  0% péssima, obtendo uma segmentação totalmente errada. Conclui-se que o MCA Crisp é um método útil para segmentar os pulmões em imagens de TC e com potencial para integrar sistemas que auxiliem o diagnóstico médico.

This paper proposes a new Active Contour Model (ACM), called ACM Crisp, and evaluates the segmentation of lungs in computed tomography (CT) images. An ACM draws a curve around or within the object of interest. This curve changes its shape, when some energy acts on it and moves towards the edges of the object. This process is performed by successive iterations of minimization of a given energy, associated with the curve. The ACMs described in the literature have limitations when used for segmentations of CT lung images. The ACM Crisp model overcomes these limitations, since it proposes automatic initiation and new external energy based on rules and radiological pulmonary densities. The paper compares other ACMs with the proposed method, which is shown to be superior. In order to validate the algorithm a medical expert in the field of Pulmonology of the Walter Cantídio University Hospital from the Federal University of Ceará carried out a qualitative analysis. In these analyses  100 CT lung images were used. The segmentation efficiency was evaluated into  5 categories with the following results for the ACM Crisp: 73% excellent, without errors, 20% acceptable, with small errors, and  7% reasonable, with large errors, 0% poor, covering only a small part of the lung, and  0% very bad, making a totally incorrect segmentation. In conclusion the ACM Crisp is considered a useful algorithm to segment CT lung images, and with potential to integrate medical diagnosis systems.

Resistência inicial de quatro espécies arbóreas em diferentes espaçamentos após ocorrência de geada / Initial resistance of four arboreal species in different spacing after frost occurrence

A ocorrência de geada, dependendo do grau de dano, pode se tornar um fator limitante para a condução de florestas de curta rotação. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o comportamento após ocorrências de geadas das espécies florestais Acacia mearnsii De Wild, Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maiden, Mimosa scabrella Benth e Ateleia glazioveana Baill submetidas a níveis de espaçamento de 2,0x1,0m; 2,0x1,5m; 3,0x1,0 e 3,0x1,5m um ano após o plantio, na região Norte do Rio Grande do Sul. Os danos (resistência a geada) foram avaliados segundo o sistema de notas de 0 a 10, conforme a intensidade do dano na planta. Os graus de resistência à geada foram determinados em função da intensidade do dano na planta. Os níveis de espaçamento estudados não afetaram respostas das espécies em relação ao dano ocasionado por geada. A espécie Mimosa scabrella apresentou ser resistente, enquanto que Eucalyptus grandis e Ateleia glazioveana, tolerantes. Já a Acacia mearnsii apresentou ser moderadamente tolerante a tolerante.

The frost occurrence depending on the damage degree, can become a limit factor for the transport of forests of short rotation. The present research has as objective evaluate the behavior after occurrences of frosts of the species forest Acacia mearnsii De Wild, Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maiden, Mimosa scabrella Benth and Ateleia glazioveana Baill were submitted to levels of spacing of 2.0 x 1.0m; 2.0x1.5m; 3.0x1.0m and 3.0x1.5m one year after the planting, in the North of Rio Grande do Sul. The damages (resistance to frost) were appraised according to scale 0 to 10 according to the intensity of the damage in the plant. The frost resistance degrees were certain in function of the intensity of the damage in the plant. The spacing levels studied didn't affect the species answers in relation to the damage caused by frost. The species Mimosa scabrella presented to be resistant, while Eucalyptus grandis and Ateleia glazioveana tolerant. Already the Acacia mearnsii was moderately tolerant to tolerant.

Desempeño productivo del yaque (Leiarius marmoratus Gill, 1870) bajo diferentes densidades de siembra en estanques en tierra / Productive performance of yaque (Leiarius marmoratus Gill, 1870) under different stocking densities in ground ponds / Desempenho produtivo do yaque (Leiarius marmoratus Gill, 1870) sob diferentes densidades de cultivo em viveiros de terra

La producción comercial de especies pertenecientes a la familia de los silúridos o bagres es una alternativa que empieza a ser considerada en muchos países, generando gran interés especies como el yaque (Leiarius marmoratus), debido a su buen desempeño en cultivo y fácil adaptación a consumo de dieta seca. En consecuencia, el presente trabajo evaluó el desempeño productivo del yaque bajo diferentes densidades de siembra, a partir de alevinos previamente acondicionados a consumo de concentrado comercial, durante un periodo productivo de cinco meses en estanques en tierra. Fueron utilizados 591 peces de tres meses de edad, con un peso promedio inicial de 20.4 ± 2.4 g y una talla inicial de 12.2 ± 2.4 cm, distribuidos en 3 densidades de siembra (0.5, 1 y 2 peces/m²) y alimentados 3 veces al día con concentrado comercial de 30% PB. Se obtuvieron resultados favorables para la densidad de siembra de 1 pez/m², con los valores más altos en cuanto a ganancia de peso (549±42.8 g), ganancia de talla (28.1 ± 0.8 cm), ganancia diaria de peso (3.01±0.23 g/día), tasa de crecimiento específico (2.14 ± 0.07%) y factor de crecimiento relativo (14.4 ± 2.95). De acuerdo con los resultados, se puede concluir que la densidad de 1 pez/m² es la más adecuada para el cultivo comercial de Leiarius marmoratus, bajo las condiciones experimentales descritas.

The commercial production of catfish species is increasing in several countries. One of these species, the so called yaque fish (Leiarius marmoratus) has interesting potential due to its good performance and adaptation to dry diets. Therefore, the present study evaluated the productive performance of yaque under several stocking densities. Fingerlings were previously conditioned to a commercial diet for five months in ground ponds. A total of 591 fish, aged three months post-hatching, were used. The initial fish weight was 20.4 ± 2.4 g and the initial size was 12.2 ± 2.4 cm. Fish were distributed under three stocking densities (0.5, 1 and 2 fish/m²) and were fed three times per day with a commercial diet (30% CP). The intermediate density (1 fish/m²) resulted in the best gain (549 ± 42.8 g), height gain (28.1 ± 0.8 cm), average daily gain (3.01 ± 0.23 g/día), specific growth rate (2.14 ± 0.07%) and relative growth factor (14.4 ± 2.95).

A produção comercial de espécies de peixes pertencentes à família dos silurídeos o bagres é uma alternativa que começa a considerar-se em muitos países, tendo grande interesse em espécies como o Yaque (Leiarius marmoratus), devido ao seu bom desempenho no cultivo e fácil adaptação ao consumo de rações secas. Por tanto, o presente trabalho avaliou o desempenho produtivo do Yaque sob diferentes densidades de cultivo, a partir de alevines acostumados previamente ao consumo de ração artificial, durante um período de cultivo de cinco meses em viveiros em terra. Foram utilizados 591 peixes de três meses de idade, com peso corporal médio de 20.4 ± 2.4 g e cumprimento inicial de 12.2 ± 2.4 cm, distribuídos ao acaso em 3 densidades de alojamento (0.5, 1 y 2 peixes/m²) e alimentados 3 vezes ao dia com ração comercial de 30% de PB. Foram obtidos resultados favoráveis pra a densidade de 1 peixe/m² apresentando os valores más altos em quanto o ganho de peso (549 ± 42.8 g), ganho em cumprimento (28.1 ± 0.8 cm), ganho diário de peso corporal (3.01 ± 0.23 g/día), taxa de crescimento específico (2.14 ± 0.07%) e fator de crescimento relativo (14.4 ± 2.95). De acordo com os resultados, pode-se concluir que a densidade de 1 peixe/m² é a más adequada para o cultivo de Leiarius marmoratus ao nível comercial sob as condições experimentais descritas.

DETERMINACIÓN DE LA PRODUCCIÓN DE FOLLAJE VERDE DE LA Acacia decurrens EN EL PRIMER AÑO DE SIEMBRA / PRODUCTION OF FOLIAGE AT Acacia decurrens IN THE FIRST PLANTING YEAR

La determinación de la producción de follaje verde en el primer año de siembra de la Acacia decurrens se realizó en la finca La Ramada, Quindío, a 4° 31' 41" de latitud norte y 75° 32' 41'' de longitud oeste, con una temperatura promedio de 16 °C. Las plantas fueron establecidas con un mes de edad, en surcos paralelos a la pendiente, podadas al alcanzar 1,8 m de altura y defoliadas manualmente simulando el ramoneo que realiza el ganado. Las densidades de siembra fueron: alta, media y baja: 1664, 832 y 416 acacias/hectárea, respectivamente; se realizaron defoliaciones por periodos a los 6, 9 y 12 meses de siembra. Las variables a medir fueron: peso en gramos de follaje verde por árbol e incremento en gramos de follaje verde/árbol/día. Todos los datos fueron analizados por ANOVA. No fue encontrada diferencia significativa (P>0,05) entre las variables analizadas al estudiar las diferentes densidades de siembra. Se evidenció diferencia significativa (P<0,05) entre periodos de defoliación, al analizar la variable de incremento en gramos de follaje verde por día, esto indica, que la producción de gramos de follaje verde fue mejor en el tercer periodo. La producción de follaje verde de la acacia en el primer año no se ve afectada por las diferentes densidades de siembra y hay un incremento de la producción de follaje verde a medida que las acacias incrementan su edad.

The determination of green foliage production of Acacia decurrens in the first planting year, was in La Ramada farm, Quindío, located 4° 31' 41'' of latitude north and 75° 32' 41'' longitude west, an average temperature 16 °C. The age for planting was one month, in parallel rows to the slope, pruning to 1,5 m of high and the acacia's browsing was simulated by manual defoliation; The planting densities were high, medium, and low: 1664, 832 and 416 acacias/hectare, respectively; and the periods o frequency of defoliation was to 6, 9 and 12 months of planting. The variables were grams/tree of foliage production and grams/tree/day of foliage increment. All data were analyzed by ANOVA. In this trial, the planting densities were not significantly (P>0.05), however, between periods the grams/tree/day of foliage increment were significantly (P<0.05), because the better production was in the third defoliation period. Acacia foliage production is similar in the first planting year with three different densities, and the foliage production increment improves with the time.

Desempenho de genótipos de soja-hortaliça de ciclo precoce [Glycine max (L. ) Merril] em diferentes densidades / Performance of genotypes of early-cycle vegetable soybeans [Glycine max (L. ) Merril] in different densities

Objetivando-se avaliar o desempenho de dois genótipos de soja-hortaliça de ciclo precoce [Glycine max (L.) Merril], em diferentes densidades, foi instalado um ensaio, em área experimental do Setor de Olericultura e Plantas Aromático-Medicinais, pertencente ao Departamento de Produção Vegetal, nas dependências da Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV-UNESP), Campus de Jaboticabal-SP. O delineamento experimental foi o de parcelas subdivididas, adotando-se nas parcelas os genótipos e nas subparcelas as densidades, com quatro repetições por tratamento. Cada parcela experimental foi constituída por quatro linhas de 4,5m de plantio, com densidades de 20, 10 e 7 plantas por metro e 0,60m nas entrelinhas, sendo consideradas para avaliação 20 plantas por parcela, das duas linhas centrais. As sementes foram semeadas em bandejas de poliestireno expandido de 128 células, contendo substrato Plantmax Hortaliças®. O transplantio ocorreu dez dias após a semeadura, em solo devidamente preparado, conforme recomendações para a cultura. A colheita foi realizada quando os legumes estavam em estádio reprodutivo R6. Avaliaram-se os genótipos JLM010 e CNPSOI quanto às características: número médio de legumes por planta, número médio de sementes por legume, massa fresca de 100 sementes e produtividade estimada de grãos imaturos. Com base nos resultados obtidos concluiu-se que o genótipo JLM010 é o mais recomendado e deve ser plantado na densidade de 7 plantas por metro.

With the aim of evaluating the performance of two genotypes of early-cycle soybeans [Glycine max (L.) Merril] in different spacings, a study was carried out in the experimental area of the Sector of Vegetable Crops and Aromatic Medicinal Plants, belonging to the Department of Crop Sciences, College of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences (FCAV-UNESP), Jaboticabal Campus-SP. The experimental design used was the one of subdivided parcels, each parcel representing the genotypes and the subparcels being the densities, where four replications were used for each treatment. Plots comprised four rows measuring with populations of 20, 10 and 7 plants by meter, and 0.60m between rows, where each parcel consisted of 20 plants. Seeds were sowed in expanded polystyrene trays with 128 pyramidal cells, contend substratum Plantmax Hortaliças®. Transplanting was performed ten days after sowing, to a soil previously fertilized as recommended to the crop. Harvesting was performed when pods reached the reproductive stage R6. The following genotypes were used: JLM010 and CNPSOI. The mean earliness, mean number of pods per plant, mean number of seeds per pod, fresh weight of 100 seeds and estimated yield of immature grains were measured. Results showed that the genotype JLM010 is the best for vegetable soybean production, because a higher fresh weight of 100 seeds was obtained with a population of 7 plants by meter.

Developing new approaches for detecting and preventing Aedes aegypti population outbreaks: basis for surveillance, alert and control system

A new approach to dengue vector surveillance based on permanent egg-collection using a modified ovitrap and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis(Bti) was evaluated in different urban landscapes in Recife, Northeast Brazil. From April 2004 to April 2005, 13 egg-collection cycles of four weeks were carried out. Geo-referenced ovitraps containing grass infusion, Bti and three paddles were placed at fixed sampling stations distributed over five selected sites. Continuous egg-collections yielded more than four million eggs laid into 464 sentinel-ovitraps over one year. The overall positive ovitrap index was 98.5 percent (over 5,616 trap observations). The egg density index ranged from 100 to 2,500 eggs per trap-cycle, indicating a wide spread and high density of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) breeding populations in all sites. Fluctuations in population density over time were observed, particularly a marked increase from January on, or later, according to site. Massive egg-collection carried out at one of the sites prevented such a population outbreak. At intra-site level, egg counts made it possible to identify spots where the vector population is consistently concentrated over the time, pinpointing areas that should be considered high priority for control activities. The results indicate that these could be promising strategies for detecting and preventing Ae. aegypti population outbreaks.

The Changes of Markers of Bone Metabolism and Bone Mineral Densities in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury

OBJECTIVE: In patients with spinal cord injury, it is more susceptible to osteoporosis because bone resorption is more prominent than bone formation. Thus we evaluated the change of biochemical markers and bone mineral densities (BMDs) according to the duration of injury, the spinal cord injury level, and the injury severity. METHOD: The subjects were included 26 patients with spinal cord injury and 22 healthy men. We measured serum osteocalcin and urine deoxypyridinoline (DPYD) in 2 hours after awakening and measured BMDs in lumbar vertebrae, femur, and distal forearm in patients and control group. The patients were 21 men, 5 women, mean age 43.2+/-14.3 years, and mean duration 28.3+/-45.0 months, who were divided by injury level and injury severity respectively. RESULTS: The biochemical markers of bone metabolism in patients group had significant differences comparing to control group (p<0.05). The urine DPYD and BMDs in femur showed significantly negative correlation with the duration of spinal cord injury (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: In patients with spinal cord injury, urine DPYD and BMDs in femur had significant correlation with the duration of injury. But, the injury level and injury severity had no significant correlation with the markers of bone metabolism and BMDs.

Seasonal distribution of cockroaches, a major source of indoor allergens, in seoul metropolitan area / 천식및알레르기

PURPOSE: Home exposure to aeroallergens are an important environmental factor in allergic sensitization and in the development and exacerbation of asthma. Most studies of aeroallergens were dust mite in Korea, but cockroach distribution was little been known in Korea. The aim of this study was to evaluate species of cockroaches and seasonal distribution of cockroaches in Seoul area. METHODS: The study was performed during April 2000 through January 2001, from 63 houses in Korea. The total of 63 residential homes from different districts in Seoul were selected for the home environment survey. Bait traps (10 x 20 x 4 cm2, Zoro Zoro, Taisho Pharmacy, Tokyo, Japan) were placed on four different places of kitchen floor and one in the side of balcony in the house and left for 5 days to capture cockroaches. RESULTS: The cockroaches were captured in 23 houses(36.5%) out of 63 houses. And the inhabitant density of cockroaches was highest in the autumn(43.3%) followed by summer (29.2%), spring(18.3%) and winter(9.2%). In only 3 species were collected in Seoul area. The most common species were Blattella germanica showing 72.5% of the collected cockroaches, followed by Periplaneta japonica(25.2%) Periplaneta americana(2.3%). The total number of captured cockroaches was 504 and the number of nymph was 314(62.2%). Isolated house type showed higher trapping rates than the apartment. Positive skin test rates were 46.2% in the healthy control group and 43.8% in the allergy patients. CONCLUSION: Periplaneta americana was captured in Seoul area, which had not been found previously. The inhabitant density of cockroaches was the lowest in the winter.