Effects of experimental lightgaps and topography on enrichment plantings in a central Amazonian secondary forest

Enrichment plantings into secondary forest are an important option in restoring species diversity and ecosystem services. However, little attention has been given to environmental requirements for species performance. This study evaluated the effects of lightgaps and topographic position on the growth and survival of four native tree species (Pouteria caimito, Garcinia macrophylla, Dipteryx odorata and Cynometra bauhiniaefolia) planted into a 26-year old secondary forest originating from abandoned pastures in the central Amazon Basin. Artificial lightgaps and control plots under closed canopy were uniformly distributed on plateaus and bottomlands near water bodies. Seedlings were planted randomly into the plots and monitored for 28 months. Seedling survival rate was high (93%) and did not differ among species. Overall, lightgaps produced a 38% increase in seedling height relative to the controls. Although the four species naturally occur in mature forest, two of the four grew significantly more in lightgaps than in closed canopy secondary forest. Overall, bottomlands facilitated greater seedling growth in height (38%) relative to plateaus, but only one species exhibited a significant increase. This study shows the importance of the environmental variability generated with canopy openings along the topographic gradient, suggesting that both the selection of species and microsite conditions of planting sites have to be considered important criteria in the recovery of degraded areas. (AU)

Bases para el desarrollo de políticas y programas para garantizar el bienestar en los primeros mil días de vida / Bases for the development of Policies and Programs to guarantee well-being in the first thousand days of life

Los primeros mil días de vida, desde la concepción hasta el final de los primeros dos años de vida, constituye un período crucial para establecer el desarrollo de la enfermedad o de la salud en la vida futura de los individuos. La exposición a ambientes adversos determinará las alteraciones temporales en el ADN que perduran en el tiempo que dicha exposición exista. Las políticas y programas destinados a garantizar el bienestar durante esta ventana crítica del crecimiento son cruciales para que la población goce de las mejores condiciones posibles que permitan la expresión de su máximo potencial, al cual están programados para desarrollar. Palabras clave: condiciones ambientales, programas y políticas(AU)

The first thousand days of life, from the conception until the end of the first two years of life, constitutes a key period in which the development of disease or health establishes in the future lives of individuals. Exposure to adverse environments will determine the temporary impairments in DNA that last as long as the exposure exists. Policies and programs aimed at guaranteeing well-being during this critical window of growth are crucial for the population to enjoy the best possible conditions that allow the expression of their maximum potential, to which they are programmed to develop(AU)

Aedes aegypti spreading in South America: new coldest and southernmost records

The geographic distribution of Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti (L.) in South America has been expanding during the last decades. Herein we present two new distribution records that extend its southern limits towards localities with extremer environmental conditions than reported to date. San Antonio Oeste constitutes the southernmost finding for the continent (40º44'S), whereas Tandil is the infested locality with the coldest mean annual temperature in Argentina (14.17ºC). The projection of a previous distribution model for Ae. aegypti predicts these two cities as positive and suggests several other localities with suitable conditions for vector proliferation beyond its assumed distribution limits.

Estudio comparativo del estado nutricional de niños y niñas residentes en cuatro partidos de la provincia de Buenos Aires (Argentina), en el marco de la transición nutricional / Comparative study of the nutritional status of children living in four counties of the province of Buenos Aires (Argentina), in the context of nutrition transition

RESUMEN El objetivo fue evaluar y comparar el estado nutricional en poblaciones infanto-juveniles residentes en cuatro partidos de la provincia de Buenos Aires y observar si existen diferencias vinculadas a los contextos ambientales y socioeconómicos particulares, en el marco de la transición nutricional. Entre los ciclos lectivos 2008-2012, se relevó el peso y la talla y se calculó el índice de masa corporal de 7.873 escolares, entre 4 y 12 años de edad, residentes en los partidos de La Plata, Brandsen, Magdalena y Punta Indio. La información acerca del contexto de residencia se obtuvo mediante encuesta estructurada y autoadministrada. Alrededor del 40% de los escolares presentó malnutrición, y prevalecieron el sobrepeso en La Plata, la obesidad en Punta Indio y la desnutrición en Magdalena. El estado nutricional se vinculó con las condiciones socioambientales de residencia y dio cuenta de que estas poblaciones se ubican en distintas etapas del proceso de transición nutricional.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the nutritional status of child populations living in four counties of the province of Buenos Aires to observe differences related to particular environmental and socioeconomic contexts in the framework of the nutrition transition. During the school years corresponding to the 2008-2012 period, weight and height were measured and body mass index was calculated for 7,873 school children between the ages of 4 and 12 years from the counties of La Plata, Brandsen, Magdalena and Punta Indio. Information about the contexts of residence was obtained using self-administered structured surveys. About 40% of schoolchildren presented malnutrition, with a prevalence of overweight in La Plata, obesity in Punta Indio and undernutrition in Magdalena. The nutritional status of the study populations was associated with the socioenvironmental conditions of residence, indicating that these populations are at different stages of the nutrition transition process.

Sex determination by amplification of amelogenin gene from dental pulp tissue by polymerase Chain Reaction

Forensic odontology necessarily involves the application of dentistry along with various other branches of sciences which deals with proper handling, examination, evaluation, and presentation of dental evidences, that aids to investigate a crime and deliver justice. Sex determination is a part of forensic odontology and an essential priority when traditional identification of the deceased becomes impossible. Aim: To determine Sex by analysis of the Amelogenin gene using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method on Deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA) isolated from dental pulp, which was exposed to various environmental conditions created artificially to mimic a forensic scenario. Materials and Method: This in-vitro study was conducted by subjecting extracted teeth to various conditions imitating a forensic scene, viz. desiccation at room temperatures, immersion in salt water, burial in soil and even exposing to extremes of temperatures. DNA was extracted from dental pulp tissue and sex determination was achieved by amplification of the amelogenin gene through AMEL gene based primers in PCR. Result: Among all the samples used in this study, DNA could be extracted from all, except from those that were subjected to a temperature of 350 °C. DNA amplification and sex determination of the samples were found to be accurate when compared to sex of the individual which was recorded initially, during collection of teeth samples. Conclusion: This study shows teeth to be a potent source of DNA even in extreme environmental conditions, barring high temperatures and determination of sex by PCR amplification of AMEL markers to be quite reliable.

Leaf Anatomy of Xylopia aromatica (Lam. ) Mart. (Annonaceae) occurring in a rocky savannah in the Brazilian Amazonian / Anatomia foliar de Xylopia aromatica (Lam. ) Mart. (Annonaceae) ocorrente em uma savana rochosa na Amazônia Brasileira

Savannas of the Amazon Region of Mato Grosso State have an unique ecological identity due to the complexity of the Cerrado-Amazon transition region, their geographical isolation and the physical-chemical properties of the soil. This study aimed to characterize the leaf anatomy of Xylopia aromatica, and to identify potential adaptive traits to the xeric environment. We collected adult leaves from X. aromatica from a Amazonian savannah located in the Nova Canãa do Norte city, Mato Grosso. The leaves were fixed and stored in 70% ethanol. Cross sections were obtained by free hand with the aid of a razor blade, stained with astra blue and basic fuchsin, and mounted on histological slides. Charactersconsidered adaptive: thick cuticle, epidermal cells with thickened walls, the presence of silica in theepidermis, trichomes, hypostomatic leaves, stomata on the same level as the other epidermal cells, presenceof hypodermis, and dorsiventral mesophyll with palisade parenchyma occupying more than 50%. Theanatomical characters presented are of great importance for the establishment and development of X.aromatica in xeric environments. They contribute to the protection of the leaves from many biotic andabiotic factors to which they are subjected, thus ensuring the species survival in the savannic environment.

A região de savana amazônica do Estado do Mato Grosso possui identidade ecológica própria, explicada pela complexa região de transição Cerrado-Amazônia, pelo isolamento geográfico e pelas propriedades físico-químicas do solo. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar a anatomia foliar de Xylopiaaromatica (Lam.) Mart, identificando possíveis características adaptativas ao ambiente xerófilo. Foram coletadas folhas adultas de X. aromatica em savana amazônica, localizado no município de Nova Canaã do Norte - Mato Grosso. As folhas foram fixadas em FAA50 e armazenadas em etanol a 70%. Os cortes transversais foram obtidos a mão livre com auxílio de lâmina de barbear, corados com azul de Astra e fucsina básica e montados em lâminas histológicas. Caracteres aqui considerados adaptativos: cutículaespessa, células epidérmicas com paredes espessadas, presença de sílica na epiderme, tricomas, folhashipoestomáticas, estômatos no mesmo nível das demais células epidérmicas, presença de hipoderme, mesofilo dorsiventral com parênquima paliçádico ocupando mais de 50% e lacunoso bem compacto. Os caracteres anatômicos aqui apresentados são de grande importância para as espécies desenvolverem-se em ambientes xerófilos, demonstrando contribuição para a proteção das folhas a diversos fatores bióticos e abióticos aos quais esta se sujeita, garantindo a sobrevivência das espécies no ambiente savânico.

Importância das cores no crescimento, bem-estar e reprodução de peixes / Importance of colors on growth, welfare and reproduction of fish / Importancia de los colores en el crecimiento, bienestar y reproducción de peces

O Brasil possui alto potencial para piscicultura devido às suas condições ambientais favoráveis à elevada diversidade de espécies nativas com potencial para corte e para ornamentação e à vasta disponibilidade de recursos hídricos. Os estímulos ambientais são cruciais na modulação do ciclo de vida dos animais e, dessa forma, as modificações inerentes a cor do ambiente pode afetar o comportamento e o desenvolvimento dos peixes. Poucos estudos têm sido dedicados ao entendimento dos efeitos do fundo ou cor de luz sobre a biologia dos peixes. Objetivou-se fazer uma revisão bibliográfica sobre os efeitos das cores no bem-estar, na reprodução e no crescimento dos peixes. A luminosidade, por exemplo, é uma condição ambiental essencial para a sobrevivência dos peixes. A luz também é o principal fator responsável pelo controle do ritmo biológico dos animais. A resposta ao estresse corresponde a uma série de alterações fisiológicas. Os efeitos são divididos em primários, secundários e terciários. A manipulação deste sincronizador ambiente pode auxiliar na produção e na qualidade do pescado dentro da área de piscicultura. O efeito das cores sobre o desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo de peixes dependerá dentre outros fatores, da espécie a ser estudada, do sexo e do estágio de desenvolvimento dessa espécie, e é de suma importância para melhor o bem-estar dos animais e obter maiores rendimentos no setor de piscicultura.(AU)

Brazil has a high potential for fish farming due to its favorable environmental conditions to a high diversity of native species with potential for food consumption and for decoration, as well as its vast availability of water resources. Environmental stimuli are crucial in modulating the life cycle of animals, and therefore the inherent color changes of the environment can affect the behavior and development of fish. Few studies have been devoted to understanding the effects of background or light color on fish biology. The purpose of this paper was to make a literature review on the theme of color effects on fish welfare, reproduction and growth. Brightness, for instance, is an essential environmental condition for fish survival. Light is also one of the main factors responsible for controlling the biological rhythm of those animals. Stress response corresponds to a series of physiological changes, with their effects being divided into primary, secondary and tertiary. The manipulation of this environmental synchronizer can aid in the production and quality of fish within the fish farming area. The effect of colors on the productive and reproductive performance of fish species under study depends, among other factors, on the sex and development stage of this species, and is of paramount importance for better animal welfare and higher yields in the fish farming sector.(AU)

Brasil tiene un gran potencial para la piscicultura debido a sus favorables condiciones ambientales, la alta diversidad de especies nativas con potencial para corte y adorno, y la gran disponibilidad de recursos hídricos. Los estímulos ambientales son cruciales en la modulación del ciclo de vida de los animales y, de esa forma, las modificaciones inherentes al color del ambiente puede afectar el comportamiento y el desarrollo de los peces. Pocos estudios se han dedicado a la comprensión de los efectos de fondo o color de luz sobre la biología de los peces. Se ha buscado una revisión bibliográfica sobre los efectos de los colores en el bienestar, en la reproducción y en el crecimiento de los peces. La luminosidad, por ejemplo, es una condición ambiental esencial para la supervivencia de los peces. La luz también es el principal factor responsable por el control del ritmo biológico de los animales. La respuesta al estrés corresponde a una serie de cambios fisiológicos. Los efectos se dividen en primarios, secundarios y terciarios. El manejo de este entorno sincronizador puede ayudar en la producción y la calidad del pez dentro del área de la acuicultura. El efecto de los colores sobre el desempeño productivo y reproductivo de peces dependerá entre otros factores, de la especie a ser estudiada, del sexo y de la etapa de desarrollo de esa especie, y es de suma importancia para mejorar el bienestar de los animales y obtener mayor rendimiento en el sector de la acuicultura.(AU)

Migración vertical de fitoplancton en el lago de Atitlán, Guatemala / Vertical migration of phytoplankton in lake Atitlan

La migración vertical es el movimiento que realiza el fitoplancton en la columna de agua como parte de su ciclo de vida o como resultado de condiciones medioambientales. En el presente estudio, se analizó la migración del fitoplancton durante julio del 2015 y febrero del 2017, para comprender el comportamiento del fitoplancton durante el día. Para esto, se realizaron muestreos de 24 h, registrando parámetros fisicoquímicos in situ y tomando muestras de fitoplancton a distintas profundidades (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 y 30 m) en diferentes momentos (5:00, 8:00, 12:00, 16:00, 19:00 y 22:00 h). Los grupos taxonómicos más diversos fueron las diatomeas (Bacillariophyta) y las algas verdes (Chlorophyta); y los géneros más abundantes fueron Aulacoseira sp. y Ceratium sp. Durante el 2015 se registraron 17 géneros pertenecientes a cinco grupos taxonómicos, se observó una disminución de las poblaciones de diatomeas en el tiempo y un aumento de cianobacterias alrededor de medio día y dinoflagelados en horas de la noche y en zonas más profundas. En el 2017 se registraron 20 géneros, con una dominancia mayor de 75% de diatomeas. Las abundancias de algas quebradizas, algas verdes y dinoflagelados permanecieron estables temporal y espacialmente y las cianobacterias presentaron una baja abundancia. En general, la variación espacio-temporal del fitoplancton en ambos años, se debe a las condiciones ambientales al momento del muestreo, siendo el fotoperiodo, la temperatura y la radiación solar las que determinaron su distribución.

The diel vertical migration of phytoplankton is the movement algae do in the water column as part of their lifecycle or as a result of environmental conditions. In this study we evaluate the diel vertical migration of phytoplankton in a 24-hour period in July 2015 and February 2017, to understand the vertical migration of phytoplankton in the lake. A 24-hour monitoring was carried out, recording in situ physicochemical parameters and collecting phytoplankton samples at different depths (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 m) and at different times of the day (5:00, 8:00, 12:00, 16:00, 19:00 and 22:00 hours). The most diverse taxonomic groups were diatoms (Bacillariophyta) and green algae (Chlorophytas), and the most abundant algae were Aulacoseira sp. and Ceratium sp. In July 2015, 17 genera were registered, belonging to five taxonomic groups. During the 24- hour period evaluation a decrease in the population of diatoms was registered, also an increase of cyanobacteria around midday and an increase in dinoflagellates in the evening and night at higher depths. In February 2017, 20 genera were registered, with a dominance above 75% of diatoms. The populations of Charophytes, green algae and dinoflagellates kept stable during the day and at different depths, and cyanobacteria presented a very low abundance. In general, the observed behavior of the phytoplankton in the sampled periods was due to existing environmental conditions, particularly the photoperiod, temperature and the radiation.

Metamorfoses urbanas: condições socioambientais à construção de identidades em áreas de concentração da pobreza / Metamorfosis urbana: condiciones socioambientales a la construcción de identidades en áreas de concentración de la pobreza / Urban metamorphosis: socio-environmental conditions for the construction of identities in areas of concentration of poverty

Resumo Resultante da dissertação de mestrado intitulada "Sem eiras e nas beiras da cidade: a metamorfose urbana como óbice da metamorfose emancipatória", este artigo discorre sobre as condições socioambientais para a construção identitária em áreas de concentração de pobreza. Para tanto, retrata aspectos de um estudo desenvolvido no Sertão da Sesmaria, Ubatuba-SP, destacando olhares femininos sobre as imagens da moradia, do bairro, da cidade e de si mesmas enquanto cidadãs. Participaram mulheres de diferentes faixas etárias cujos critérios de inserção eram o tipo e o tempo de moradia naquele bairro. Realizaram-se entrevistas semiestruturadas e, para análise dos discursos, construíram-se categorias, através de unidades de sentido, que respondessem como se veem/percebem/sentem na casa, no bairro e na cidade. Assim, foi possível compreender o modo como a identidade dessas moradoras emergem neste espaço-tempo do viver urbano e afirmar que, em espaços degradados, se constroem identidades degradadas.

Resumen En este artículo, que se deriva de disertación de maestría, se discute sobre las condiciones socioambientales de la construcción identitaria en áreas de concentración de la pobreza. Se retrata aspectos de un estudio desarrollado en el Sertão de Sesmaria, Ubatuba-SP, destacando la mirada femenina sobre los imágenes de la vivienda, del barrio, de la ciudad y de sí mismas como ciudadanas. Participaron mujeres de diferentes grupos de edad, cuyos criterios de inserción eran el tipo y el tiempo de vivienda en aquel barrio. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas y, para el análisis de los discursos, se construyeron categorías, a través de unidades de sentido, que respondieran como se ven / perciben / se sienten en la casa, en el barrio y en la ciudad. Así, fue posible comprender cómo la identidad de esas moradoras emergen en este espacio-tiempo del vivir urbano y afirmar que, en espacios degradados, se construyen identidades degradadas.

Abstract Resulting from the master's thesis entitled "Without 'eiras' and on the city's borders: the urban metamorphosis as an obstacle to the emancipatory metamorphosis", this article discusses the social-environmental conditions to the construction of identity in areas of concentration of poverty. For that, it portrays aspects of a study developed in the Sertão da Sesmaria, Ubatuba-SP, highlighting feminine views on the images of the dwelling, the neighborhood, the city and themselves as citizens. Participants were women of different age groups whose criteria of insertion were the type and length of residence in that neighborhood. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and, for discourse analysis, categories were constructed through units of meaning that responded as they see / perceive / feel in the house, in the neighborhood and in the city. Thus, it was possible to understand how the identity of these dwellers emerge in this space-time of urban living and affirm that, in degraded spaces, degraded identities are constructed.

Dry biomass and glycosides yield from Stevia rebaudiana leaves under different harvesting times / Produtividade de biomassa seca e glicosídeos em Stevia rebaudiana cultivada em diferentes períodos da estação de crescimento

The Stevia rebaudiana (Bert) Bertoni is a perennial plant native in the Amambay Hills in the South America. The leaves of this plant produce various natural sweeteners useful to replace the human needs of saccharine. The aims of this study were to evaluate the dry biomass and the glycoside concentration in the Stevia leaves along different growing periods of the growing season to determine the best time to harvest the crops. We selected and identified six groups of 20 plants for analyses. The highest plant yield was found in December, from the first harvest for the groups 3, 4 and 2 with 292.4; 285.2 and 206.7 g m-2, respectively. The sweetener concentrations and the glycosides ranged within the harvests and the compounds analyzed. The highest concentrations of stevioside (12.16% - group 1 and 11.36% - group 5) and rebaudioside C (2.43% - group 5 and 1.95% - group 1) were found in January while rebaudioside A had the highest concentrations of 7.01% (group 6); 6.16% (group 4) and 6.15% (group 3) in December, February and March, respectively. The environmental conditions have influence in days to harvesting as well as in the concentration of glycosides.

Originária na serra de Amanbaí, Paraguai, América do Sul, a Stevia rebaudiana é uma planta perene que possui em suas folhas edulcorantes naturais com alto poder adoçante e que podem substituir a sacarose. Objetivou-se com esse experimento avaliar a biomassa seca e a concentração de glicosídeos em folhas de S. rebaudiana em diferentes períodos do ano para determinar a melhor época para a colheita. Seis grupos com 20 plantas foram selecionados e identificados perfazendo um total de 120 plantas. As maiores produtividades de biomassa seca foram alcançadas no mês de dezembro quando ocorreu o primeiro corte nos grupos 3 com 292,4, 4 com 285,2 e 2 com 206,7 g m-2 . A concentração dos glicosídeos variou entre os períodos de crescimento de cada corte e entre os compostos analisados. As concentrações mais altas de esteviosídeo (12,16% - grupo 1 e 11,36% - grupo 5) e rebaudiosídeo C (2,43% - grupo 5 e 1,95% - grupo 1) foram observadas nas colheitas realizadas em janeiro, enquanto que para o rebaudiosídeo A (7,01% - grupo 6; 6,16% - grupo 4 e 6,15% - grupo 3), as maiores porcentagens foram alcançadas nos meses de dezembro, fevereiro e março.

Leaf anatomy of Qualea parviflora (Vochysiaceae) in three phytophysiognomies of the Mato Grosso State, Brazil / Anatomia foliar de Qualea parviflora (Vochysiaceae) em três fitofisionomias do Estado Mato Grosso, Brasil

Leaves have a variety of morphological and anatomical characters mainly influenced by climatic, edaphic and biotic factors. The aim of this study was to describe the anatomical leaf traits of Qualea parviflora from three phytophysiognomies. The studied phytophysiognomies were Amazon Savannah on rocky outcrops (ASR), Transition Rupestrian Cerrado (TRC), and Cerradão (CDA). Freehand sections of the leaf blade were made and stained with 0.5% astra blue and with basic fuchsin. From the adaxial and abaxial leaf surface, freehand paradermal sections were made for epidermis analysis. The Jeffrey´s method, with modifications, was used in the epidermis dissociation process. The samples from the TRC phytophysiognomy had relatively smaller ordinary epidermal cells, higher abundance of trichomes, and mesophyll with few intercellular spaces, in comparison to the other phytophysiognomies. The leaves from the ASR phytophysiognomy had higher stomatal index (SI = 21.02), and five to six layers of sclerenchyma surrounding the midrib vascular bundle. The secondary vascular bundles had thicker cell walls and the bundle sheath extended up to the epidermal tissue of both leaf sides. Leaves from the CDA phytophysiognomy had mesomorphic environmental traits, such as a thinner cuticle. It is concluded that trees from ASR and TRC phytophysiognomies have xeromorphic traits following the environmental conditions where they occur.

As folhas são órgãos vegetativos que expressam uma variedade de características morfológicas e anatômicas influenciadas, principalmente, por fatores climáticos, edáficos e bióticos. O presente estudo objetivou levantar as características anatômicas das folhas de Qualea parviflora Mart. presente em três fitofisionomias: Savana Amazônica sobre afloramentos rochosos (SAR), Cerrado Rupestre de Transição (CRT) e Cerradão (CDA). Os cortes anatômicos foram realizados a mão livre e corados com azul de astra e fucsina básica 0,5%. Para a dissociação das epidermes, foi utilizado o método de Jeffrey modificado. As amostras da fitofisionomia de CRT apresentaram células epidérmicas comuns relativamente menores, maior quantidade de tricomas e mesofilo com poucos espaços intercelulares em relação as demais fitofisionomias. As amostras da fitofisionomia de SAR apresentaram maior índice estomático (IE: 21,05), maior quantidade de esclerênquima envolvendo o feixe vascular da nervura central (5 a 6 camadas), feixes vasculares secundários com células de paredes mais espessadas, com bainha que se estende até as células epidérmicas em ambas as faces. As amostras da fitofisionomia de CDA apresentaram caracteres de ambientes mesomórficos, como cutícula mais delgada. Pôde-se concluir que os espécimes que ocorrem em SAR e CRT apresentaram características xeromórficas que estão relacionados ao ambiente de ocorrência.

Influence of environmental integrity on the reproductive biology of Astyanax altiparanae Garutti & Britski, 2000 in the Ivinhema river basin / Influência da integridade ambiental na biologia reprodutiva de Astyanax altiparanae Garutti & Britski, 2000 na bacia do rio Ivinhema

In this study, it was examined the reproductive biology of Astyanax. altiparanae, in streams with different levels of environmental disturbance in the Ivinhema river basin (Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil). Samplings were conducted between July 2001 and November 2011, at 101 sites, using sieves, seining nets, gill nets and electrofishing. Streams were classified into three levels of environmental integrity. We analyzed 735 specimens, 410 females and 325 males. Females predominated in impacted streams and both sexes presented nearly the same pattern of length distribution in the three levels of environmental integrity. Females reached gonadal maturity with greater lengths (L50 = 55.67mm) in altered and impacted streams and had higher reproductive activity between October and December. The species showed higher Condition Factor and higher reproductive intensity in the impacted streams. Our results evidenced that in impacted sites the species exhibited a good ability to allocate a significant portion of its energy to reproduction, probably due to the greater supply of food.

Neste estudo analisamos a biologia reprodutiva de Astyanax. altiparanae em riachos com diferentes intensidades de integridade ambiental, na bacia do rio Ivinhema, (Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil). As amostragens foram realizadas entre julho/2001 e novembro/2011, em 101 locais, utilizando peneiras, rede de arrasto, rede de espera e pesca elétrica. Os riachos foram categorizados em três níveis de integridade ambiental. Foram analisados 735 exemplares, sendo 410 fêmeas e 325 machos. Houve maior predominância de fêmeas nos riachos impactados e ambos os sexos apresentaram aproximadamente o mesmo padrão de distribuição por comprimento nos três níveis de integridade ambiental. Constatamos que as fêmeas atingiram maturidade gonadal com maiores comprimentos (L50 = 55,67 mm) nos riachos alterados e impactados apresentaram maior atividade reprodutiva entre outubro e dezembro. A espécie apresentou maior Fator de Condição e maior intensidade reprodutiva nos riachos impactados. Os resultados evidenciaram que em locais impactados a espécie demonstra boa capacidade em alocar parte significativa de sua energia à reprodução, provavelmente em decorrência da maior oferta de alimento.

Compartilhamento de recursos por duas espécies de peixes nectobentônicas de riachos na bacia do rio Cachoeira (BA) / Resource sharing by two nectobenthic freshwater fish species of streams in the Cachoeira river basin (BA)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo buscar particularidades e aspectos em comum relacionados com as condições ambientais de ocorrência e recursos alimentares utilizados por Trichomycterus bahianus e Characidium aff. zebra, duas espécies típicas de riachos coletadas durante o período chuvoso na bacia do rio Cachoeira, sudeste da Bahia, uma região da Mata Atlântica, utilizando-se um equipamento de pesca elétrica em oito trechos de riachos de cabeceira. Foi verificada a correlação entre os dados ambientais e a abundância das espécies, através de uma análise de componentes principais. Para os itens alimentares verificou-se a amplitude da dieta, a sobreposição de nicho e a existência de diferenças na exploração dos recursos alimentares. Além disso, testou-se a existência de diferenças na composição e no grau de preferência alimentar em diferentes estágios de desenvolvimento. Foram coletados 55 exemplares de C. zebra e 124 de T. bahianus. Verificou-se que a abundância das duas espécies está relacionada com o gradiente gramínea-rocha na margem e areia-matacão no fundo. Pode-se afirmar que independente da espécie, as fêmeas foram maiores e mais pesadas que os machos (p < 0,001). A proporção sexual de C. zebra diferiu do esperado (Χ² = 4,091; gl = 1; p = 0,043). As duas espécies foram classificadas como invertívoras, consumindo principalmente formas imaturas de insetos aquáticos. Não houve diferença significativa no número de itens consumidos pelas espécies. A sobreposição alimentar foi elevada (Oj,k = 0,895), porém, as espécies apresentaram diferença significativa na exploração dos recursos alimentares (p < 0,001). Observou-se também que, apesar da alta sobreposição alimentar, as espécies exploraram praticamente os mesmos recursos, porém, com estratégias distintas. Isto foi evidenciado quando se levou em consideração os diferentes estágios de desenvolvimento, mostrando que a dieta de C. zebra é mais generalista que a de T. bahianus. Provavelmente o compartilhamento de recursos abundantes e as diferenças na ocupação de micro-hábitats e nas estratégias de vida de C. zebra e T. bahianus, permita a coexistência das duas espécies nos riachos da bacia do rio Cachoeira durante o período chuvoso.

The aim of this study was to investigate specific characteristics and common features related to the abundance and the gradient of environmental conditions and food resources used by Trichomycterus bahianus and Characidium aff. zebra. These species are two typical streams fishes collected during the rainy season using electric fishing equipment in eight sites at the headwaters of the Cachoeira river basin, in a region of Atlantic rainforest in southeast of Bahia State. We quantified the correlation between environmental data and abundance through a principal component analysis. It was obtained the diet amplitude, the niche overlap and tested the differences in exploitation of food resources. In addition, we tested the differences in composition and degree of food preference in different stages of development. We collected 55 specimens of C. zebra and 124 of T. bahianus. It was found that the abundance of the two species is related to the gradient grass-rock on the shore and sand-boulder at the bottom. We can say that regardless of species, females were larger and heavier than males (p < 0.001). The sex ratio of C. zebra differ from the expected (Χ2 = 4.091, df = 1, p = 0.043). The two species were classified as invertivorous, consuming mostly immature aquatic insects. There was no significant difference in the number of items consumed by the species, and the diet overlap was high (Oj,k = 0.895). However, the species showed different strategies to obtain food which lead to significant differences in exploitation of food resources (p < 0.001). This was evidenced when we took into account the different stages of development, showing that the diet of C. zebra is more generalist than T. bahianus. Probably, the sharing of abundant resources and differences in the occupation of microhabitats and life strategies allows the coexistence of this two species in the streams of the Cachoeira river basin during the rainy season.

Condiciones ambientales del hogar y resultados académicos de educandos de primaria del Consejo Popular "Cayo Hueso" (2007) / Home environmental conditions and the academic results of primary school students from "Cayo Hueso" Popular Conceil (2007)

Se realizó un estudio que tuvo como objetivos caracterizar las condiciones ambientales de los hogares de los educandos de primaria del Consejo Popular "Cayo Hueso", del Municipio de Centro Habana, en el curso escolar 2006-2007, e identificar la relación entre las condiciones ambientales existentes y los resultados académicos obtenidos en ese período. El estudio fue complejo, combinado, de tipo transversal, descriptivo y analítico (caso y control). Se estudiaron los educandos de primer a sexto grados de las seis instituciones educacionales de la enseñanza primaria del Consejo Popular "Cayo Hueso", del municipio de Centro Habana, durante el curso escolar antes mencionado. Para cumplir los objetivos propuestos, a todas las madres se les aplicó un cuestionario con preguntas que exploraron la historia educacional de los hijos, sus hábitos y comportamientos. Los resultados se expresaron en porcentajes por instituciones educacionales. Se identificaron condiciones de vida inadecuadas en las viviendas de los educandos que pueden actuar como factores de riesgo a su salud o al aprendizaje. La ingestión de alcohol y el hábito de fumar dentro de las viviendas, así como el riesgo social en su entorno, fueron los hábitos inadecuados que más se relacionaron con los problemas de aprendizaje.

The objective of present study was to characterize the identified environmental conditions and the academic results of students. Study was complex and combined and cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical (case-control). The students from first to sixth degrees from the six educational institutions of primary education from the above mentioned council. To fulfill the proposed objectives, in all mothers we applied a questionnaire with questions to explore the educational history of theirs children, habits and behaviors. Results were expressed in percentages by educational institutions. The conditions of a inappropriate life at homes of students were identified that may be like risk factors for health of for learning. Alcohol ingestion and smoking at home, as well as the social risk of its environment, were the inappropriate habits more related to learning problems.

Optimum Conditions for Artificial Fruiting Body Formation of Cordyceps cardinalis

Stromatal fruiting bodies of Cordyceps cardinalis were successfully produced in cereals. Brown rice, German millet and standard millet produced the longest-length of stromata, followed by Chinese pearl barley, Indian millet, black rice and standard barley. Oatmeal produced the shortest-length of fruiting bodies. Supplementation of pupa and larva to the grains resulted in a slightly enhanced production of fruiting bodies; pupa showing better production than larva. 50~60 g of brown rice and 10~20 g of pupa mixed with 50~60 mL of water in 1,000 mL polypropylene (PP) bottle was found to be optimum for fruiting body production. Liquid inoculation of 15~20 mL per PP bottle produced best fruiting bodies. The optimal temperature for the formation of fruiting bodies was 25degrees C, under conditions of continuous light. Few fruiting bodies were produced under the condition of complete darkness, and the fresh weight was considerable low, compared to that of light condition.

Algunos aspectos hereditarios y ambientales en casos de fibrosis quística en la ciudad de Cartagena (Colombia) / Some hereditary and environmental aspects in cystic fibrosis cases from Cartagena (Colombia)

Objetivos: Describir las características de la transmisión hereditaria de la enfermedad en familias de la ciudad de Cartagena (Colombia) y analizar algunos factores medioambientales del núcleo familiar de los pacientes que pudieran influir en la evolución y/o severidad de la patología. Materiales y métodos: Se estudiaron 22 pacientes, distribuidos en 16 familias, del “Programa de atención integral a pacientes con fibrosis quística” de la Universidad de Cartagena. Se recopiló información acerca de las condiciones de vivienda del grupo familiar y se evaluaron aspectos fenotípicos hereditarios, y se construyeron genealogías para esta enfermedad. Resultados: El análisis de pedigríes reveló lo siguiente: en ocho familias (67%), los individuos afectados presentan rasgos caucásicos; en cinco familias (42%) se reconoce existencia de ancestros europeos; en dos familias (17%) existe consaguinidad. En relación con el aspecto ambiental, se encontró que 33% de las familias estudiadas habitan viviendas en malas condiciones. Conclusiones: Entre las familias de los pacientes con fibrosis quística de la ciudad de Cartagena detectados en este estudio se verifica la transmisión hereditaria autosómica recesiva, se confirma el mestizaje de nuestras poblaciones. La reincidencia de enfermos y la consanguinidad en varias familias denota la falta de asesoramiento genético y el desconocimiento de la evolución de la enfermedad por su grupo familiar. Estos resultados pueden ser el punto de partida de estudios más amplios que sirvan de fundamento para la implementación de políticas tendientes a reducir la frecuencia y severidad de la enfermedad a nivel local y nacional...

Objective: Describe characteristics of hereditary transmissión diseases in families in Cartagena (Colombia) also analysing some environmental factors that might affect the evolution and or severity of this diseases. Materials and methods: Twenty-two patients distributed into 16 families attending to the Universidad de Cartagena's Integral attention program for CF families were studied. Information about family house conditions was collected; some inherited phenotype aspects were evaluated, and genealogy trees were constructed for this disease. Results: Our pedigree analysis reveals the next issues: first, caucasian traits in affected individuals are present in eight families (67%); second, european ancestors are reported in five families (42%); third, inbreeding was detected in two families (17%). Thirty three percent of these families are living in bad housing conditions. Conclusions: Between relatives of cystic fibrosis patients from Cartagena it is verified the autosomal recessive hereditary transmission, it is confirmed the crossbreeding inside our population. The relapse of patients and the blood relationship in several families reveal the lack of genetic counseling and inadequate knowledge about the evolution of the disease between the members of the families. These results could be the starting point of larger studies that serve as a foundation of politics tending to reduce the frequency and severity of the disease in a local and national level...

Estrategias de educación ambiental de institutos descentralizados en el sistema educativo colombiano en Medellín / Environmental education strategies for decentralized schools in the Colombian educative system: the Medellin experience

La educación ambiental es pilar fundamental de la generación de cambios de actitud y aptitud y de lograr un equilibrio entre el hombre y su entorno. La educación ambiental requiere del apoyo de casi todas las disciplinas, por lo que la resolución de los problemas ambientales debe contar con la participación activa de un amplio conjunto de personas e instituciones. Este artículo examina la educación ambiental en Colombia apoyándose en el caso de los programas de capacitación, haciendo hincapié en un estudio de caso ocurrido en la ciudad de Medellín, capital del departamento de Antioquia. Los resultados destacan que existe una carencia de conceptualización clara sobre por qué y para qué se hace la educación ambiental, lo que ha llevado a la formulación de objetivos y estrategias demasiado generales dirigidas a la realización de acciones concretas y aisladas. Además, la descoordinación entre instituciones y grupos ha traído como consecuencia la duplicación de esfuerzos y la poca racionalización de los recursos existentes. Se concluye que la educación ambiental en el país es aún ineficiente y debe transitar a niveles superiores, atendiendo a tres perspectivas: ambiental, educativa y pedagógica.

Environmental education is a condition to enable an attitudinal and aptitudinal generation of change, a condition that facilitates the balance between man and his surroundings. Environmental education needs the support of almost every discipline. In order to solve environmental problems, one must count on the active participation of a wide set of people and institutions. This article examines environmental education in Colombia focusing on the case of training programs, making emphasis on a case study that took place in Medellín, capital of the department of Antioquia. Results show there is a lack of clear conceptualization about the reasons and ultimate purposes concerning why environmental education is finally accomplished. That situation has conducted to the formulation of objectives and strategies that are too general to be properly fulfilled, and the implementation of detailed, and isolated actions. Lack of coordination between institutions and groups has resulted in duplicity of functions and efforts, which in turn result in a far from rational use of scarce resources. The conclusion is that environmental education in Colombia is still inefficient and must advance to higher levels, taking into account these three main perspectives: environmental, educative and pedagogic.

Efecto de la pluviosidad y el brillo solar sobre la producción y características del semen en el pez Brycon henni (Pisces: Characidae) / Effect of pluviosity and sun shine on sperm production and seminal characteristics of the fish Brycon henni (Pisces: Characidae)

In Colombia the fish Brycon henni is a protected endemic species. It inhabits water bodies in coffee producing areas (700-1900 ma.s.l.; 4º35’56’’ N -74º04’51’’ W; 18-28°C). Insufficient knowledge of its basic biology and behavior prevent the commercial culture of this promising fish. We studied the production and sperm physiology of captive males. Along a year 20 samples were taken from each of 10 males. The sample was obtained by abdominal cefalo-caudal massage and transported to the laboratory at 4°C. Except for September and October (maximum rainfall),sperm was always obtained in at least 50% of the males. Color, osmolality and pH were similar in all the samples. Volume, concentration, viability, motility and activation time were variable: sunshine had a positive effect on volume (Spearman p<0.05) and on sperm concentration (Spearman p<0.05) while pluviosity had a negative effect on volume and viability. The proportion of ions (Na,K,Mg,Ca)was constant along the year; Na being 10-fold higher than K and 100-fold higher than Mg and Ca; however the absolute concentration of all ions was slightly higher in April and in July (with no apparent relation with the other variables analyzed).

El pez Brycon henni es una especie endémica protegida por la legislación colombiana, que habita cuerpos de agua de zonas cafeteras (700-1900 m. s. n. m),comprendidas entre los 4º35’56’’ N y 74º04’51’’ W, con temperaturas que oscilan entre los 18 y los 28ºC. A pesar de las características promisorias de esta especie, su reproducción en cautiverio a nivel comercial no ha sido posible por falta de conocimientos básicos de su biología y comportamiento. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue caracterizar la producción y la fisiología espermática de machos en cautiverio. A lo largo de un año se tomaron 20 muestras de cada uno de 10 ejemplares. El semen se obtuvo mediante masaje abdominal cráneo-caudal y se transportó a 4ºC para su análisis en el laboratorio. Con excepción de septiembre y octubre que fueron los meses más lluviosos, siempre se obtuvo semen de al menos el 50% de los animales. El color, la osmolalidad y el pH fueron similares en todas las muestras a lo largo del año. El volumen, la concentración, la viabilidad, la movilidad y el tiempo de activación fueron variables: El efecto del brillo solar fue positivo sobre el volumen (Spearman p<0.05) y sobre la concentración espermática (Spearman p<0.05), mientras que la pluviosidad tuvo un efecto negativo sobre el volumen y la viabilidad. La proporción entre los iones (Na, K, Mg, Ca) se mantuvo constante durante todo el año: el sodio fue el mayor, seguido por el potasio, y por el magnesio y el calcio, 10 y 100 veces menos, respectivamente; sin embargo la concentración absoluta de estos iones aumentó durante los meses de abril y julio sin una relación aparente con las otras variables analizadas.