The characteristics of stingless bee nests (Apidae: Meliponini) in the Cycloop Mountain Nature Reserve, Indonesia

Introduction: Stingless bees are widespread in tropical and subtropical regions. In Indonesia, the distribution of stingless bees are grouped in three regions, namely Indo-Malayan, Wallacea, and Indo-Australian. Ten species of stingless bees have been recorded in Papua, seven of which are endemic. The Cycloop Mountains Nature Reserve (CMNR) is one of the conservation area in Papua, Indonesia, for flora and fauna. Unfortunately, the study of the diversity of stingless bees in Papua has been limited. Objective: To measure the diversity, nesting sites, nest entrance characteristics and nest architecture of stingless bees. Methods: Observation of the stingless bee nests in the nature reserves and in the residential areas used a road sampling method and information from local people, respectively. A total of 22 colonies were studied. Results: Two species of stingless bee were found, namely Tetragonula sapiens (Cockerell, 1911) and Heterotrigona (Platytrigona) planifrons (Smith, 1865). The current study showed new distribution records for T. sapiens and H. planifrons in the CMNR. The nesting site of T. sapiens was commonly found in house foundation, while that of H. planifrons was in coconut palm cavities. The nest entrance of T. sapiens varied, i.e., elliptical, oval, rounded, irregular, horizontally or vertically elongated. Meanwhile, the nest entrance of H. planifrons was vertically elongated. The brood cells of T. sapiens varied, i.e., vertical, horizontal, or semi-clusters, while in H. planifrons was layered vertically. Conclusions: Two species of stingless bees found, T. sapiens and H. planifrons, showed a new distribution records and T. sapiens was a dominant species in Papua. The nest entrance of the species varied in shape, color, and texture.

Introducción: Las abejas sin aguijón están muy extendidas en las regiones tropicales y subtropicales. En Indonesia, la distribución de las abejas sin aguijón se agrupa en tres regiones: Indo-Malayan, Wallacea e Indo-Australian. Se han registrado diez especies de abejas sin aguijón en Papua, siete de las cuales son endémicas. La Reserva Natural de las Montañas Cycloop (CMNR) es una de las áreas para la conservación de flora y la fauna en Papua, Indonesia. Desafortunadamente, el estudio de la diversidad de abejas sin aguijón en Papua ha sido limitado. Objetivo: Medir la diversidad, los sitios de anidación y describir la arquitectura y características de entrada al nido de las abejas sin aguijón. Métodos: Se observaron los nidos de abejas sin aguijón en reservas naturales y áreas residenciales, mediante el método de muestreo de caminos e información de la población local, respectivamente. Se estudiaron 22 colonias. Resultados: Se encontraron dos especies de abejas sin aguijón, Tetragonula sapiens (Cockerell, 1911) y Heterotrigona (Platytrigona) planifrons (Smith, 1865). Este estudio mostró nuevos registros de distribución de T. sapiens y H. planifrons en el CMNR. El sitio de anidación de T. sapiens se encontró comúnmente en los cimientos de las casas, mientras que el de H. planifrons estaba en las cavidades de las palmas de coco. La forma de la entrada al nido de T. sapiens varió: elíptica, ovalada, redondeada, irregular, alargada horizontal o verticalmente. Mientras tanto, la entrada al de H. planifrons se alarga verticalmente. Las celdas de cría de T. sapiens variaron, entre verticales, horizontales o semi-racimos, mientras que en H. planifrons eran verticales. Conclusiones: Se encontraron dos especies de abejas sin aguijón, T. sapiens y H. planifrons, que mostraron nuevos registros de distribución y T. sapiens fue una especie dominante en Papúa. La entrada al nido de las especies varió en forma, color y textura.

Estrategias de afrontamiento ante la crisis sanitaria: un estudio comparativo en enfermeros de costa y sierra ecuatoriana / Coping strategies in the face of the health crisis: A comparative study in nurses from the Ecuadorian coast and highlands

Se realizó una encuesta transversal de dos muestras separadas por conveniencia de enero a marzo de 2021 a fin de comparar la prevalencia de percepción de riesgo e identificar diferentes estrategias de afrontamiento en enfermeros de la costa y la sierra ecuatoriana. Las muestras incluyeron dos grupos de profesionales de enfermería para un total de 518. El 49,0% (n= 254) de los participantes laboraban en la sierra ecuatoriana y el 50,8% (n= 263) prestaban sus servicios en la costa ecuatoriana. Muestreados provenientes de varias clínicas, tanto en la costa como en la sierra ecuatoriana, fueron abordados aleatoriamente por el entrevistador para participar en el estudio. Se examinaron y compararon los resultados de las pruebas de las tres muestras. Los grupos se eligieron en función de la conveniencia del muestreo y la supuesta conciencia de los factores de riesgo de COVID-19. En cuanto a la percepción de riesgo, su prevalencia es significativamente mayor para las enfermeras de la costa que las de la sierra. Las enfermeras que prefieren trabajar en equipo durante la crisis sanitaria tenían probabilidades alrededor de 0,30 más bajas, lo que puede interpretarse como un factor protector. Respecto al miedo al contagio no se hallaron diferencias entre enfermeras de la costa o la sierra(AU)

A cross-sectional survey of two samples separated by convenience was carried out from January to March 2021 to compare the prevalence of risk perception and identify different coping strategies in nurses from the Ecuadorian coast and highlands. The samples included two groups of nursing professionals for a total of 518. 49.0% (n= 254) of the participants worked in the Ecuadorian highlands and 50.8% (n= 263) provided their services on the ecuadorian coast. Samples from various clinics, both on the coast and in the Ecuadorian highlands, were randomly approached by the interviewer to participate in the study. The test results of the three samples were examined and compared. Groups were chosen based on sampling convenience and presumed awareness of COVID-19 risk factors. Regarding the perception of risk, its prevalence is significantly higher for nurses from the coast than those from the mountains. Nurses who prefer to work in a team during the health crisis had probabilities around 0.30 lower, which can be interpreted as a protective factor. Regarding the fear of contagion, no differences were found between nurses from the coast or the mountains(AU)

Factores de riesgo en población rural andina con COVID-19: un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo / Risk factors in rural Andean population with COVID-19: a retrospective cohort study

Resumen Objetivo: Determinar los factores de riesgo en adultos con COVID-19 en población rural andina durante 2020. Métodos: En este estudio de cohorte retrospectivo multicéntrico, incluimos a 184 pacientes adultos (≥18 años) con pruebas serológicas y moleculares para CO VID-19 de tres hospitales de la sierra peruana (Ancash y Apurímac) incluidos con sospecha clínica entre abril y junio. Se utilizó análisis descriptivos y regresión logística univariable para explorar los factores de riesgo asociados a los pacientes con COVID-19. Resultados: Del total de pacientes, 14 (7.6%) tuvieron SARS-CoV-2. En los pacientes infectados 12 (85.7%) fueron varones con promedio de edad de 47.3±21 años. Las comorbilidades estuvieron presentes en cerca de la tercera parte de pacientes, siendo la hipertensión y diabetes las más frecuentes (ambas 14.3%), y la sinto matología más frecuentes fueron fiebre y cefalea (57.2%). La regresión univariable mostró mayores probabilidades de infección con SARS-CoV-2 en la población rural andina asociada con la edad avanzada (OR: 1.1 IC95% 0.7-1.8; p=0,019), comorbilidades previas (OR: 1.7, IC95% 0.32-9.39; p=0,006), y sintomatología previa (OR: 49.8, IC95% 5.6-436.9; p=0,0011). Conclusiones: Los posibles factores de riesgo como la edad avanzada, las comorbilidades y sintomatología previas están relacionados con el desarrollo de CO VID-19 en población rural andina de Perú.

Abstract Objective: To determine the risk factors in adults with COVID-19 in the rural Andean population during 2020. Methods: This multicenter retrospective cohort study included 184 adult patients (≥18 years) with COVID-19's serological and molecular tests from three Hospitals in the Peruvian mountains (Ancash and Apurímac) included with clinical suspicion between April and June. Descriptive analysis and univariate logistic regression were used to explore the risk factors associated with patients with COVID-19. Results: Of total of patients, 14 (7.6%) had a SARS-CoV-2. In infected patients 12 (85.7%) were men with an average age of 47.3±21 years. Comorbidities were present in about a third of patients, with hypertension and diabetes being the most frequent (both 14.3%), and the most frequent symptoms were fever and hea dache (57.2%). Univariate regression showed higher probabilities of infection with SARS-CoV-2 in the rural Andean population associated with advanced age (OR: 1.1 95% CI 0.7 - 1.8; p = 0.019), previous comorbidities (OR: 1.7, 95%CI 0.32 - 9.39; p = 0.006), and previous symptoms (OR: 49.8, 95%CI 5.6 - 436.9; p = 0.0011). Conclusions: Possible risk factors such as advanced age, comorbidities and previous symptoms are related to the development of COVID-19 in the rural Andean population of Peru.

Suitable planting area of Poria cocos in Jinzhai county of Dabie Mountains region / 中国中药杂志

Dabie Mountain in Anhui province is a genuine producing area of Poria cocos, commonly known as Anling. Jinzhai county in Anhui province is a traditional producing area of P. cocos, and it is also a key county for poverty alleviation in Dabie Mountains. Poverty alleviation of traditional Chinese medicine producing area is an important measure to implement the major strategic deployment of the central government. The planting of P. cocos is helpful to promote the development of traditional Chinese medicine industry in Dabie Mountains and help poverty alleviation. P. cocos is a saprophytic fungus with special demands on soil and ecological environment, and its planting appears a scattered and irregular distribution. Traditional investigation methods are time-consuming and laborious, and the results are greatly influenced by subjective factors. In order to obtain the suitable planting area of P. cocos in Jinzhai county, according to the field survey, the research team has explored the regional, biological characteristics and cultivation methods of P. cocos in the county, and obtained the altitude distribution area suitable for the growth of P. cocos. Then, the MaxEnt niche model was used to analyze the relationship between ecological factors and distribution areas, and the potential distribution zoning of P. cocos in Jinzhai county was studied. Combined with the characteristics of P. cocos planting pattern, taking ZY-3 remote sensing image as the data source, the maximum likelihood method was used to extract the area that could be used for P. cocos cultivation in Jinzhai county, and the reason why artificial planting P. cocos was mainly distributed in the west of Jinzhai county was analyzed. The suitable regional classification of P. cocos in Jinzhai county was obtained by superposition of suitable altitude distribution area, MaxEnt analysis and area extracted from remote sensing image, which provided data support for the planting planning of P. cocos in Jinzhai county.

Formation history of Dao-di herbs in Dabie Mountains / 中国中药杂志

Dabie Mountains, a unique transition area of subtropical and warm temperate zone, span Anhui, Hubei and Henan pro-vinces with a humid and suitable climate. It is rich in traditional Chinese medicine resources including many Dao-di herbs, and has a profound culture of traditional Chinese medicine with many herbalists in the past. This paper combed the historical geography of Dabie Mountains and development vein of medicinal materials recorded in history, and a textual research on the historical evolution of Dao-di herbs and special herbs in Dabie Mountains was carried out. The administrative region of Dabie Mountains has been changing constantly in history, which includes 25 counties and districts of six cities in Anhui, Henan and Hubei provinces at present. Dabie Mountains abound in a variety of Chinese herbal medicines, which have been recorded in herbal works in the past dynasties and local chronicles in detail. The recorded Dao-di herbs Dendrobium huoshanense, Artemisia argyi, and Poria cocos are well-known in China, and the output of Gastrodia elata, Ganoderma lucidum, and P. cocos is in the forefront of the country. Additionally, there are still many local special herbs emerging in modern times. In a word, this paper reviewed development of historical geography and ancient records of medicinal materials in Dabie Mountains, and made a textual research on the Dao-di herbs and special herbs, will provide a reference for the mo-dern research and intellectual property protection of Dao-di herbs in Dabie Mountains.

Investigation on human intestinal parasitic diseases in ecological regions of Qinba Mountains in Henan Province in 2015 / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To understand and analyze the epidemic status of human intestinal parasitic diseases in the ecological region of the Qinba Mountains in Henan Province, so as to provide the evidence for the control of the diseases in this region. Methods According to the methods of National Survey Scheme on Major Human Parasitic Diseases, 26 survey spots were selected in 8 counties (cities) in ecological regions of Qinba Mountains in Henan Province in 2015. After collecting the human fecal samples, the eggs of intestinal helminthes were detected with the modified Kato-Katz thick smear method, the species of Ancylostoma of the hookworm egg-positive samples were identified with the tube fecal culture method, the eggs of Enterobius vermicularis were detected by using the adhesive tape method in children aged 3 to 6 years, and the cyst and trophozoite of intestinal protozoa were examined by iodine staining. The infections of intestinal parasites in different populations and the related influencing factors were analyzed. Results Totally 6 706 residents were recruited in this study, 8 kinds of parasites were found including 3 species of helminthes and 5 species of protozoans. The overall infection rate of intestinal parasites was 3.39%, covering 2.92% for helminthes and 0.49% for protozoans. The infection rate of E. vermicularis in children aged 3 to 6 years was 3.93%. The 3 identified helminthes were Ascaris lumbricoides, E. vermicularis, and Dicrocoelium dendriticum, with the highest infection rate of E. vermicularis (2.68%, χ2 = 306.362, P < 0.05). The 5 identified protozoans were Entamoeba hartmani, E. coli, Endolimax nana, Giardia lamblia, and Blastocystis hominis, and the infection rate of E. nana was the highest (χ2 = 23.842, P < 0.05). Among the 8 counties (cities), the highest infection rate of helminthes, mainly with Enterobius infection, existed in Ruyang County, and the infection rate of protozoans in Xin’an County was the highest, mainly with E. nana infection. There was a significant difference in the infection rates of helminthes and protozoans among the 8 counties (cities) (helminthes: χ2 = 357.525, P < 0.05; protozoans: χ2 = 38.795, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the helminth infection rate between males and females ( χ2 = 0.034, P > 0.05), but the protozoan infection rate of the males was higher than that of the females ( χ2 = 12.946, P < 0.05). The helminth infection rate of the 0-9 years old group was the highest ( χ2 = 62.600, P < 0.05), up to 6.60%, mainly with E. vermicularis infection. There was no significant difference in the infection rate of intestinal parasites among nationalities ( χ2 = 0.212, P > 0.05). The helminth infection rate of preschool children was the highest and up to 8.43%, mainly with E. vermicularis infection. The infection of A. lumbricoides was mainly happened among farmers, with the infection rate of 0.31%. There was a significant difference in the helminth infection rate among different occupations (χ2 = 84.333, P < 0.05). The intestinal parasites infection rate of the illiterate population was the highest and up to 7.63%, there was a significant difference among the populations with different educational levels (χ2 = 72.013, P < 0.05). The helminth infection rate of plain areas was higher than that of valley and hill ( χ2 = 11.690, P < 0.05). The helminth infection rate of people with low-income was the highest and up to 10.32% (χ2 = 244.999, P < 0.05). The protozoan infection rate of people with middle-income was the highest, who had the annual per capita net income of 6 000 to 7 999 Yuan ( χ2 = 24.749, P < 0.05). The helminth infection rate of people drinking well water was much higher than that of people drinking tap water (χ2 = 62.255, P < 0.05). The protozoan infection rate of people without insect repellent was higher than that of people with insect repellent (χ2 = 5.235, P < 0.05). Conclusions The infection rates of human intestinal parasites in the ecological region of the Qinba Mountains in Henan Province have decreased sharply. E. vermicularis infection in children should be the main point of prevention and treatment of parasitic diseases in the future.

Investigation on human intestinal parasitic diseases in ecological regions of Qinba Mountains in Henan Province in 2015 / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To understand and analyze the epidemic status of human intestinal parasitic diseases in the ecological region of the Qinba Mountains in Henan Province, so as to provide the evidence for the control of the diseases in this region. Methods According to the methods of National Survey Scheme on Major Human Parasitic Diseases, 26 survey spots were selected in 8 counties (cities) in ecological regions of Qinba Mountains in Henan Province in 2015. After collecting the human fecal samples, the eggs of intestinal helminthes were detected with the modified Kato-Katz thick smear method, the species of Ancylostoma of the hookworm egg-positive samples were identified with the tube fecal culture method, the eggs of Enterobius vermicularis were detected by using the adhesive tape method in children aged 3 to 6 years, and the cyst and trophozoite of intestinal protozoa were examined by iodine staining. The infections of intestinal parasites in different populations and the related influencing factors were analyzed. Results Totally 6 706 residents were recruited in this study, 8 kinds of parasites were found including 3 species of helminthes and 5 species of protozoans. The overall infection rate of intestinal parasites was 3.39%, covering 2.92% for helminthes and 0.49% for protozoans. The infection rate of E. vermicularis in children aged 3 to 6 years was 3.93%. The 3 identified helminthes were Ascaris lumbricoides, E. vermicularis, and Dicrocoelium dendriticum, with the highest infection rate of E. vermicularis (2.68%, χ2 = 306.362, P < 0.05). The 5 identified protozoans were Entamoeba hartmani, E. coli, Endolimax nana, Giardia lamblia, and Blastocystis hominis, and the infection rate of E. nana was the highest (χ2 = 23.842, P < 0.05). Among the 8 counties (cities), the highest infection rate of helminthes, mainly with Enterobius infection, existed in Ruyang County, and the infection rate of protozoans in Xin’an County was the highest, mainly with E. nana infection. There was a significant difference in the infection rates of helminthes and protozoans among the 8 counties (cities) (helminthes: χ2 = 357.525, P < 0.05; protozoans: χ2 = 38.795, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the helminth infection rate between males and females ( χ2 = 0.034, P > 0.05), but the protozoan infection rate of the males was higher than that of the females ( χ2 = 12.946, P < 0.05). The helminth infection rate of the 0-9 years old group was the highest ( χ2 = 62.600, P < 0.05), up to 6.60%, mainly with E. vermicularis infection. There was no significant difference in the infection rate of intestinal parasites among nationalities ( χ2 = 0.212, P > 0.05). The helminth infection rate of preschool children was the highest and up to 8.43%, mainly with E. vermicularis infection. The infection of A. lumbricoides was mainly happened among farmers, with the infection rate of 0.31%. There was a significant difference in the helminth infection rate among different occupations (χ2 = 84.333, P < 0.05). The intestinal parasites infection rate of the illiterate population was the highest and up to 7.63%, there was a significant difference among the populations with different educational levels (χ2 = 72.013, P < 0.05). The helminth infection rate of plain areas was higher than that of valley and hill ( χ2 = 11.690, P < 0.05). The helminth infection rate of people with low-income was the highest and up to 10.32% (χ2 = 244.999, P < 0.05). The protozoan infection rate of people with middle-income was the highest, who had the annual per capita net income of 6 000 to 7 999 Yuan ( χ2 = 24.749, P < 0.05). The helminth infection rate of people drinking well water was much higher than that of people drinking tap water (χ2 = 62.255, P < 0.05). The protozoan infection rate of people without insect repellent was higher than that of people with insect repellent (χ2 = 5.235, P < 0.05). Conclusions The infection rates of human intestinal parasites in the ecological region of the Qinba Mountains in Henan Province have decreased sharply. E. vermicularis infection in children should be the main point of prevention and treatment of parasitic diseases in the future.

Economic valuation of the ecosystem services provided by a protected area in the Brazilian Cerrado: application of the contingent valuation method / Valoração econômica de serviços ecossistêmicos fornecidos por uma área protegida no Cerrado brasileiro: aplicação do método de valoração contingente

Abstract Considering that the economic valuation of ecosystem services is a useful approach to support the conservation of natural areas, we aimed to estimate the monetary value of the benefits provided by a protected area in southeast Brazil, the Serra do Cipó National Park. We calculated the visitor's willingness to pay to conserve the ecosystems of the protected area using the contingent valuation method. Located in a region under intense anthropogenic pressure, the Serra do Cipó National Park is mostly composed of rupestrian grassland ecosystems, in addition to other Cerrado physiognomies. We conducted a survey consisting of 514 interviews with visitors of the region and found that the mean willingness to pay was R$ 7.16 year-1, which corresponds to a total of approximately R$ 716,000.00 year-1. We detected that per capita income, the household size, the level of interest in environmental issues and the place of origin influenced the likelihood that individuals are willing to contribute to the conservation of the park, as well as the value of the stated willingness to pay. This study conveys the importance of conserving rupestrian grassland and other Cerrado physiognomies to decision makers and society.

Resumo Dado que a valoração econômica de serviços ecossistêmicos é uma abordagem útil para incentivar a conservação de áreas naturais, tivemos como objetivo estimar o valor monetário dos benefícios fornecidos por uma área protegida no sudeste do Brasil, o Parque Nacional da Serra do Cipó. Calculamos a disposição a pagar dos visitantes pela conservação dos ecossistemas abrangidos pela área protegida, usando o método da valoração contingente. Localizado em uma região que sofre intensa pressão antrópica, o Parque Nacional da Serra do Cipó é composto majoritariamente por campos rupestres, além de outras fitofisionomias do Cerrado. Realizamos 514 entrevistas com os visitantes da região e encontramos uma disposição a pagar média de R$ 7,16 ano-1, o que corresponde ao total de aproximadamente R$ 716.000,00 ano-1. Detectamos que renda per capita, número de dependentes, nível de interesse por temas relacionados ao meio ambiente e local de origem influenciam a probabilidade de o indivíduo estar disposto a contribuir para a conservação do parque, assim como o valor da disposição a pagar declarada. Este estudo atrai atenção dos tomadores de decisão e da sociedade para a importância de se conservar os campos rupestres e outras fitofisionomias do Cerrado.

Carbono almacenado en páramo andino

A pesar de la importancia del ecosistema de páramo en el ciclo global de carbono no se dispone de una síntesis que permita diferenciar si es la biomasa vegetal o el suelo el componente que acumula la mayor cantidad de carbono. En este documento se busca integrar los aspectos fundamentales relacionados con el carbono almacenado en el ecosistema de páramo, a través de: 1) Revisar las estimaciones de carbono en biomasa aérea y suelo reportadas por la literatura para el ecosistema de páramo; 2) Examinar los efectos producidos por la actividad agropecuaria en el carbono almacenado en el páramo y 3) Identificar prácticas que reducen las emisiones de carbono en el páramo. Se revisaron artículos en bases de datos como Science Direct Springerlink, Willey Online Library y Google Scholar El componente que almacena mayor cantidad de carbono en páramo es el suelo, con contenidos entre 119 y 397 t/ha en los primeros 40 cm de profundidad. Mientras que la biomasa aérea varía entre 13,21 y 183 t/ha. Es necesario incrementar las investigaciones sobre carbono orgánico en suelos de páramo. Esta información podría contribuir a apoyar acciones tendientes a vincular los ecosistemas de paramo al mercado de carbono.

Despite the importance of the paramo ecosystem in the global carbon cycle, there is not an available synthesis for identifying if plant bio-mass or soil accumulates the maximum amount of carbon. The purpose of this document is to focus on paramo ecosystem stock carbon, throught: 1) to review estimates for the abovegroundbiomass and soil organic carbón; 2) to examine the agricultural production effects on carbon storage, and 3) to identify management practices for reducing carbon emissions in the paramo ecosystem. We searched papers about carbon storage in paramo in databases like Science Direct, Springerlink, Willey Online Library y Google Scholar. Soil stored more carbon than aboveground biomass. Soil carbon organic (SOC) between 119 and 397 t/ha was storaged in the upper 40 cm. Meanwhile, aboveground biomass carbon varied between 13,21 y 183 t/ha. More studies about SOC are requiered. This information could contribute to support actions over the entailment of paramo ecosystem in carbon markets.

Apesar da importância do ecossistema de páramo no ciclo global do carbono não está disponível uma síntese para diferenciar se é a biomassa vegetal ou solo, o componente que acumula a maior parte do carbono. Este trabalho procura integrar os aspectos fundamentais do carbono armazenado no ecossistema páramo, por meio de: 1) Rever as estimativas de carbono na biomassa e no solo relatado pela literatura para o ecossistema páramo; 2) Analisar os efeitos da atividade agrícola no carbono armazenado no páramo e 3) Identificar práticas que reduzem as emissões de carbono no páramo. Artigos foram revistos em bases de dados, tais como Science Direct SpringerLink Wiley Online Library e Google Scholar. O componente que armazena a maior parte do carbono é o solo, com contidos entre 119 e 397 t/ha nos primeiros 40 cm de profundidade. Enquanto a biomassa varia entre 13,21 e 183 t / ha. É preciso acrescentar a pesquisa sobre carbono orgânico no solo em páramo. Esta informação poderia ajudar a apoiar as ações para vincular os ecossistemas de Páramo ao mercado de carbono.

Epidemiology of thyroid nodules and thyroid function in southern mountainous areas of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region / 中华健康管理学杂志

Objective To investigate the prevalence of thyroid nodules and thyroid dysfunction in southern mountainouss areas of Ningxia.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among a representative sample of 10 639 adults in Jingyuan county with a population proportionate sampling method.High-resolution ultrasound was used to examine the thyroid and fasting blood specimens were collected in the morning for measurement of TSH,FT4,FT3.Chi-square test and spearman rank correlation analysis were used for statistical analysis.Results The prevalence of thyroid nodules was 29.08％,the sex-and age-adjusted rate was 27.17％.The prevalence of thyroid nodules was higher in women than in men (32.68％ vs.24.88％,x2=76.029 2,P＜0.001) and age was positively associated with thyroid nodules (r=0.272,P＜0.001).The rate of thyroid dysfunetion,subclinical hypothyroidism,subclinical hyperthyroidism,hypothyroidism,hyperthyroidism were 17.39％,13.00％,0.42％,0.96％,3.01％,respectively.The prevalence of thyroid nodules was higher in abnormal TSH group than in normal TSH group (39.44％ vs.27.24％,x2=95.624 0,P＜0.001).The level of THS,FT3,FT4 in thyroid nodules group differed fromn control group (Z=-9.144,P＜0.001;Z=-6.140,P＜0.001;Z=-1.997,P=0.046).Conclusion The prevalence of thyroid nodules and thyroid dysfunction were higher in southern mountainous areas of Ningxia.The relationship between thyroid nodules and thyroid function needs further research.We should pay attention to the early screening and diagnosis of thyroid nodules in mountainous areas.

Vascular epiphytes in seasonal semideciduous forest in the State of Espírito Santo and the similarity with other seasonal forests in Eastern Brazil / Epífitas vasculares em floresta estacional semidecidual no estado do Espírito Santo e similaridade com outras florestas estacionais no Leste do Brasil

In this study, we evaluated the floristic composition of vascular epiphytes in seasonal semideciduous forest fragments of the Itapemirim River basin, Southern State of Espírito Santo, in order to verify its similarity to other semideciduous forests studied in Brazil. Excursions were conducted every fortnight between June 2008 and May 2009, and epiphytes were collected and recorded (55 species, 34 genera and six families). Orchidaceae (21 species) was the richest family, whereas the genera presenting the greatest richness were Tillandsia (seven), Rhipsalis (four), Aechmea, Epidendrum and Peperomia (three species each). The category the most representative was characteristics holoepiphytes (84%). The riparian forests were the most important environments for the epiphytic flora. Similarity analysis and PCA supported four groups, where the study area appears disjointed from the others, supporting the hypothesis that geographical proximity, elevation and climate have a strong effect on the floristic composition, conditioning the formation of distinct floras. Detailed surveys on the floristic composition and structure of this community are important for the elaboration of studies on coherent environmental impacts, since epiphytes are typical in tropical rainforests, and they are an important floristic, structural and functional component of these ecosystems.

Neste estudo, avaliamos a composição florística de epífitos vasculares em remanescentes de Floresta Estacional Semidecidual na bacia hidrográfica do rio Itapemirim, sul do estado do Espírito Santo, com o intuito de analisar sua similaridade com outras florestas semideciduais estudadas no Brasil. Excursões quinzenais foram realizadas entre junho de 2008 e maio de 2009, e os epífitos foram coletados e registrados (55 espécies, 34 gêneros e seis famílias). Orchidaceae, com 21 espécies, foi a mais rica, enquanto os gêneros com a maior riqueza foram Tillandsia (7 spp.), Rhipsalis (4), Aechmea, Epidendrum e Peperomia, com três espécies cada. A categoria ecológica mais representativa foi holoepífita característica com 84% das espécies. O ambiente mais importante para a flora epifítica foram as matas ciliares. Análise de similaridade e PCA sustentaram quatro grupos, em que a área estudada aparece disjunta das demais, corroborando a hipótese de que a proximidade geográfica, a altitude e o clima têm forte efeito sobre a composição florística, condicionando a formação de floras distintas. Estudos detalhados sobre a composição florística e a estrutura dessa comunidade são importantes para a elaboração de estudos de impactos ambientais coerentes, porque epífitas são típicas de florestas tropicais, constituindo importante componente florístico, estrutural e funcional desses ecossistemas.

A new species of Chaetostoma, an armored catfish (Siluriformes: Loricariidae), from the río Marañón drainage, Amazon basin, Peru

A new species of Chaetostoma was found in mountain tributaries of the río Marañon, Peru. The new species differs from all described congeners by having a tuft of odontodes, surrounded by naked skin, in the middle of each trunk lateral dermal plate, and in bearing more than 20 hypertrophied evertible odontodes on three cheek plates vs. evenly distributed odontodes on the whole surface of each dermal plate, and in bearing fewer than 20 hypertrophied evertible odontodes on three cheek plates in all other Chaetostoma species. The new species resembles two Cordylancistrus species in the presence of a tuft of odontodes in the middle of each trunk lateral dermal plate, but it exhibits a naked snout (vs. snout covered with plates in Cordylancistrus) and one uniquely derived character present in some species of Chaetostoma - a short, slender fourth branchiostegal ray.

Una distintiva especie de Chaetostoma fue descubierta en los tributarios de montaña del río Marañón, Perú. La nueva especie se diferencia de todas las otras especies de Chaetostoma descritas por tener un mechón de odontodes, rodeado por piel desnuda, en el medio de cada placa dermal lateral del tronco, y más de 20 odontodes hipertrofiados evertibles en tres placas de la mejilla, en contraste con los odontodes distribuidos de forma homogénea sobre toda la superficie de cada placa dermal lateral del tronco, y menos de 20 odontodes hipertrofiados evertibles en tres placas de la mejilla en las demás especies. La nueva especie se parece a dos especies de Cordylancistrus que exhiben un mechón de odontodes en el medio de cada placa dermal lateral del tronco, pero exhibe un hocico desnudo (vs. hocico cubierto por placas en Cordylancistrus) y un caracter derivado único de algunas especies de Chaetostoma - el cuarto radio branquiostego corto y delgado.

Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia intestinalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Captive Non-Human Primates in Qinling Mountains

Non-human primates (NHPs) are confirmed as reservoirs of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia intestinalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi. In this study, 197 fresh fecal samples from 8 NHP species in Qinling Mountains, northwestern China, were collected and examined using multilocus sequence typing (MLST) method. The results showed that 35 (17.8%) samples were positive for tested parasites, including Cryptosporidium spp. (3.0%), G. intestinalis (2.0%), and E. bieneusi (12.7%). Cryptosporidium spp. were detected in 6 fecal samples of Macaca mulatta, and were identified as C. parvum (n=1) and C. andersoni (n=5). Subtyping analysis showed Cryptosporidium spp. belonged to the C. andersoni MLST subtype (A4, A4, A4, and A1) and C. parvum 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) subtype IId A15G2R1. G. intestinalis assemblage E was detected in 3 M. mulatta and 1 Saimiri sciureus. Intra-variations were observed at the triose phosphate isomerase (tpi), beta giardin (bg), and glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) loci, with 3, 1, and 2 new subtypes found in respective locus. E. bieneusi was found in Cercopithecus neglectus (25.0%), Papio hamadrayas (16.7%), M. mulatta (16.3%), S. sciureus (10%), and Rhinopithecus roxellana (9.5%), with 5 ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) genotypes: 2 known genotypes (D and BEB6) and 3 novel genotypes (MH, XH, and BSH). These findings indicated the presence of zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi in NHPs in Qinling Mountains. This is the first report of C. andersoni in NHPs. The present study provided basic information for control of cryptosporidiosis, giardiasis, and microsporidiosis in human and animals in this area.

Ecology of Land Cover Change in Glaciated Tropical Mountains

Tropical mountains contain unique biological diversity, and are subject to many consequences of global climate change, exasperated by concurrent socioeconomic shifts. Glaciers are in a negative mass balance, exposing substrates to primary succession and altering downslope wetlands and streams. A review of recent trends and future predictions suggests a likely reduction in areas of open habitat for species of high mountains due to greater woody plant cover, accompanied by land use shifts by farmers and pastoralists along the environmental gradients of tropical mountains. Research is needed on the biodiversity and ecosystem consequences of successional change, including the direct effects of retreating glaciers and the indirect consequences of combined social and ecological drivers in lower elevations. Areas in the high mountains that are protected for nature conservation or managed collectively by local communities represent opportunities for integrated research and development approaches that may provide ecological spaces for future species range shifts.

Las montañas tropicales incluyen una singular diversidad biológica sujeta a las numerosas consecuencias del cambio climático global, exacerbado por concurrentes cambios socio-económicos. Los glaciares están en un balance negativo de su masa, promoviendo la exposición de los suelos a la colonización primaria, y alterando pantanos y riachuelos en las partes bajas. Revisiones de las tendencias actuales y predicciones sugieren que las especies de alta montaña sufrirían una reducción en las áreas de hábitats abiertos, debido al incremento en la cobertura de plantas leñosas, acompañado por los cambios en el uso del paisaje causados por agricultores y pastores a lo largo de las gradientes ambientales en las montañas tropicales. Es necesaria la investigación de las consecuencias en la biodiversidad y en los ecosistemas por causados por los cambios sucesionales, incluyendo los efectos directos del retroceso de los glaciares y las consecuencias indirectas de la acción combinada de factores sociales y ecológicos que ocurren en altitudes inferiores. Las áreas protegidas en las altas montañas usadas en la conservación de la naturaleza o manejadas colectivamente por comunidades locales representan oportunidades donde puede integrarse investigación y planes de desarrollo que podrían proveer espacios ecológicos para los futuros desplazamientos de los rangos de distribución de las especies.

16-1 Geochemical analysis of acidulous medicinal waters (Carpathian Mountains, SE Poland) for finding new water rich in dissolved silica / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

  Silicon generates interest in ecology, biology and medicine due to the recognized role it plays in living organisms in controlling bio-available aluminium and its toxicity. In Poland, silicon is regarded as a desired component in balneotherapy, with threshold value for siliceous medicinal water of 70 mg/L H2SiO3 (〜0.9 mM). In the Carpathians, mineral/medicinal waters occur in flysch rocks, in hundreds of sites where they are partly used for balneology. Most of these waters represent the acidulous (CO2-rich) type. In contrast, only seven intakes are documented as sources of siliceous medicinal waters. Three main groups of acidulous waters occur in the Carpathians: 1) “simple” acidulous waters of HCO3-Ca-Mg type (TDS=1-5 g/L), 2) waters of HCO3-Cl-Na and Cl-HCO3-Na types (TDS=10-30 g/L), and 3) waters from mixing of the above-mentioned types (Rajchel, 2012). Usually, high silicon concentration is found in thermal and/or alkaline groundwater. Unfortunately, Carpathian acidulous waters have low-enthalpy (T=6.4-20.3°C) and are slightly acidic or near-neutral (pH=5.2-7.7).   The presented geochemical study of water from 93 intakes throughout Polish Carpathian Mountains aimed at determining hydro-geochemical conditions conducive to finding new sites with Si-rich groundwater as viable source of medicinal water. It was reported that groundwater rich in silicic acid provide benefits in detoxifying body from aluminium and therapy of aluminium-related diseases (e.g. Exley et al., 2006). This study was focused on waters containing above 0.5 mM Si, suggested to be more effective in therapy (op.cit.). Silica-enriched groundwater is present in various geological-settings (Dobrzynski & Exley, 2010; Dobrzynski et al., 2012), but its therapeutic potential seems to be still underrated.   We found that silicon in concentrations above 0.5 mM occurs in mineral waters with ionic strength (I) of 0.02-0.3 M. The pH of Si-enriched waters varies between 5.8 and 6.6, which corresponds to free CO2 content of 1600-3200 mg/L. The CO2-mediated hydrolytic decay of silicate minerals is responsible for increased concentration of dissolved silicon. Geochemical modelling demonstrates that waters are close to chemical equilibrium with rock-forming feldspars. The prospective areas for finding new siliceous waters in Polish Carpathian Mountains are Poprad River Valley and Kroscienko-Szczawnica spas. The highest Si concentrations are expected to be found in groundwater which originate in the deeper part of the simple-acidulous water zone, and in geological structures where these waters mix with deeply-occurring chloride waters.

16-1Geochemical analysis of acidulous medicinal waters (Carpathian Mountains, SE Poland) for finding new water rich in dissolved silica / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

  Silicon generates interest in ecology, biology and medicine due to the recognized role it plays in living organisms in controlling bio-available aluminium and its toxicity. In Poland, silicon is regarded as a desired component in balneotherapy, with threshold value for siliceous medicinal water of 70 mg/L H₂SiO₃ (〜0.9 mM). In the Carpathians, mineral/medicinal waters occur in flysch rocks, in hundreds of sites where they are partly used for balneology. Most of these waters represent the acidulous (CO₂-rich) type. In contrast, only seven intakes are documented as sources of siliceous medicinal waters. Three main groups of acidulous waters occur in the Carpathians: 1) “simple” acidulous waters of HCO₃-Ca-Mg type (TDS=1-5 g/L), 2) waters of HCO₃-Cl-Na and Cl-HCO₃-Na types (TDS=10-30 g/L), and 3) waters from mixing of the above-mentioned types (Rajchel, 2012). Usually, high silicon concentration is found in thermal and/or alkaline groundwater. Unfortunately, Carpathian acidulous waters have low-enthalpy (T=6.4-20.3°C) and are slightly acidic or near-neutral (pH=5.2-7.7).<BR>  The presented geochemical study of water from 93 intakes throughout Polish Carpathian Mountains aimed at determining hydro-geochemical conditions conducive to finding new sites with Si-rich groundwater as viable source of medicinal water. It was reported that groundwater rich in silicic acid provide benefits in detoxifying body from aluminium and therapy of aluminium-related diseases (e.g. Exley et al., 2006). This study was focused on waters containing above 0.5 mM Si, suggested to be more effective in therapy (op.cit.). Silica-enriched groundwater is present in various geological-settings (Dobrzynski & Exley, 2010; Dobrzynski et al., 2012), but its therapeutic potential seems to be still underrated.<BR>  We found that silicon in concentrations above 0.5 mM occurs in mineral waters with ionic strength (I) of 0.02-0.3 M. The pH of Si-enriched waters varies between 5.8 and 6.6, which corresponds to free CO₂ content of 1600-3200 mg/L. The CO₂-mediated hydrolytic decay of silicate minerals is responsible for increased concentration of dissolved silicon. Geochemical modelling demonstrates that waters are close to chemical equilibrium with rock-forming feldspars. The prospective areas for finding new siliceous waters in Polish Carpathian Mountains are Poprad River Valley and Kroscienko-Szczawnica spas. The highest Si concentrations are expected to be found in groundwater which originate in the deeper part of the simple-acidulous water zone, and in geological structures where these waters mix with deeply-occurring chloride waters.

Temporal Geobiotic Mapping: a conceptual mapping technique toward visualising geobiotic areas in cross-section

Geobiota are defined by taxic assemblages (i.e., biota) and their defining abiotic breaks, which are mapped in cross-section to reveal past and future biotic boundaries. We term this conceptual approach Temporal Geobiotic Mapping (TGM) and offer it as a conceptual approach for biogeography. TGM is based on geological cross-sectioning, which creates maps based on the distribution of biota and known abiotic factors that drive their distribution, such as climate, topography, soil chemistry and underlying geology. However, the availability of abiotic data is limited for many areas. Unlike other approaches, TGM can be used when there is minimal data available. In order to demonstrate TGM, we use the well-known area in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales (NSW), south-eastern Australia and show how surface processes such as weathering and erosion affect the future distribution of a Moist Basalt Forest taxic assemblage. Biotic areas are best represented visually as maps, which can show transgressions and regressions of biota and abiota over time. Using such maps, a biogeographer can directly compare animal and plant distributions with features in the abiotic environment and may identify significant geographical barriers or pathways that explain biotic distributions.

CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON THE HERBS COLLECTED FROM QINGBA MOUNTAINS IN THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC NONSPECIFIC ULCERATIVE COLITIS / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

For 20 years, the herbs from Qingba Moun-tains have been administered, in various prescrip-tions, for the treatment of 359 patients withchronic nonspecific ulcerative colitis. The total ef-fective rate for the group treated with enteroclysmand suppositorium was 96%; with enteric coatingcapsule, 94.1% and in control group, 65% (P