Impact of the use of cusp-overlap projection on the incidence of permanent pacemaker implantation post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation with self-expanding valves.

INTRODUCTION: Current rates of permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) range between 3.4% and 25.9%. PPMI is associated with a worse prognosis. A lower valve implantation depth is associated with an increased risk of conduction disturbances. Theoretically, cusp-overlap projection (COP) has the potential to enable higher valve deployment. OBJECTIVE: To compare the 30-day PPMI incidence post-TAVI using self-expanding valves according to the fluoroscopic guidance technique. METHODS: This retrospective single-center study assessed consecutive patients undergoing TAVI with CoreValve™ valves between April 2019 and November 2021, grouped according to the fluoroscopic guidance technique (COP vs. coplanar implantation technique [CIT]). RESULTS: A total of 122 patients were included, predominantly women (52.5%), with a mean age of 81.6±5.5 years. COP was used in 49.2% of the sample. The CIT group had a significantly higher prevalence of previous beta-blocker use (p<0.01), lower baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (p=0.04) and a higher EuroSCORE II (p=0.02). The 30-day PPMI rate was 27.9% (n=34), with no significant difference between the COP and CIT groups (26.7% vs. 29.0%, p=0.77). Complete atrioventricular block was the main cause (38.5%). Likewise, mean fluoroscopy time (p=0.14) and contrast volume (p=0.35) used were similar between the two groups. Radiation dose was lower in the COP group (p=0.02). There was no significant difference between post-TAVI grades III and IV aortic valve regurgitation (p=0.27) and there were no cases of periprocedural acute coronary occlusion. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that the COP technique, although safe and not associated with increased complexity, did not significantly reduce the 30-day PPMI rate compared to the traditional CIT view.

Evaluation of sports ability to improve patients with pulmonary disease / Avaliação da habilidade no esporte para a melhoria de pacientes com doença pulmonar / Evaluación de la habilidad en el deporte para la mejoría de pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar

ABSTRACT Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common diseases in the lungs. Objective: To evaluate the clinical effect of respiratory rehabilitation training combined with Traditional Chinese and western medicine on the clinical treatment of motor function in patients with COPD. Methods: 156 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease admitted to a hospital from December 2013 to June 2015 were selected as study subjects and randomly divided into groups for treatment. Results: comparing blood gas exchange rates of patients in the four groups, the experimental group, trained using integrated Chinese and Western medicine, was significantly better than the control groups A, B and C, in aspects such as PaCO2, PaO2, SaO2, pH, etc., the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The improvement of lung function in the experimental group was significantly better than in the other three groups, with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Applying Chinese and Western Medicine combined with comprehensive respiratory rehabilitation training has a significant clinical effect. It effectively improved patients' related clinical indicators and should be widely promoted. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução: A doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) é uma das doenças pulmonares mais comuns. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos clínicos de treino para reabilitação respiratória somado ao uso de medicina ocidental e medicina tradicional chinesa combinadas, no tratamento da função motora de pacientes com DPOC. Métodos: 156 pacientes com DPOC, hospitalizados entre dezembro de 2013 e junho de 2015, foram selecionados como objetos de estudo e aleatoriamente divididos em grupos de tratamento. Resultados: Quanto aos níveis de troca gasosa dos pacientes nos quatro grupos, o grupo experimental, treinado por meio de práticas de medicina ocidental e de medicina tradicional chinesa combinadas teve uma performance significativamente melhor que a dos grupos A, B, e C, em aspectos tais como PaCO2, PaO2, SaO2, pH, etc., com significância estatística (p<0,05). A melhoria da função pulmonar no grupo experimental também foi significativamente maior que nos outros grupos, mais uma vez com significância estatística (p<0,05). Conclusões: A aplicação da medicina chinesa e da medicina ocidental combinadas, somadas a um treino de reabilitação respiratória abrangente, teve um efeito clínico significativo, efetivamente melhorando indicadores clínicos relevantes. Tal aplicação deveria ser largamente promovida. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação de resultados de tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) es una de las enfermedades pulmonares más comunes. Objetivo: Evaluar los efectos clínicos de entrenamiento para rehabilitación respiratoria sumado al uso de medicina occidental y medicina tradicional china combinadas en el tratamiento de la función motora de pacientes con EPOC. Métodos: 156 pacientes con EPOC, hospitalizados entre diciembre de 2013 y junio de 2015, fueron seleccionados como objetos de estudio y aleatoriamente divididos en grupos de tratamiento. Resultados: En cuanto a los niveles de intercambio gaseoso de los pacientes de los cuatro grupos, el grupo experimental, entrenado mediante prácticas combinadas de medicina occidental y medicina tradicional china, obtuvo un rendimiento significativamente mejor que los grupos A, B y C, en aspectos como PaCO2, PaO2, SaO2, pH, etc., con significancia estadística (p<0,05). La mejora de la función pulmonar en el grupo experimental también fue significativamente mayor que en los otros grupos, una vez más con significancia estadística (p<0,05). Conclusiones: La aplicación de la medicina china y de la medicina occidental combinadas, sumadas a un entrenamiento de rehabilitación respiratorio abarcativo, tuvo un efecto clínico significativo, efectivamente mejorando indicadores clínicos relevantes. Tal aplicación debería ser largamente promovida. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de resultados de tratamiento.

Short- and Long-Term Outcomes of Overlap Anal Sphincter Repair for Fecal Incontinence Following Sphincter Injury / Resultados em curto e longo prazos do reparo por sobreposição do esfíncter anal para incontinência fecal após lesão esfincteriana

Abstract Objective Several techniques are used to repair the anal sphincter following injury. The aim of the present study is to comprehensively analyze the short- and long-term outcomes of overlap repair following anal sphincter injury. Methods A search was conducted in the PubMed, Medline, Embase, Scopus and Google Scholar databases between January 2000 and January 2020. Studies that described the outcomes that are specific to overlap sphincter repair for fecal incontinence with a minimum follow-up period of one year were selected. Results A total of 22 studies described the outcomes of overlap sphincter repair. However, 14 studies included other surgical techniques in addition to overlap repair, and were excluded from the analysis. Finally, data from 8 studies including 429 repairs were analyzed. All studies used at least one objective instrument; however, there was significant heterogeneity among them. Most patients were female (n=407; 94.87%) and the mean age of the included individuals was 44.6 years. The majority of the procedures were performed due to obstetric injuries (n=384; 89.51%). The eight included studies described long-term outcomes, and seven of them demonstrated statistically significant improvements regarding the continence; one study described poor outcomes in terms of overall continence. The long-term scores were significantly better compared with the preoperative scores. However, compared with the shortterm scores, a statistically significant deterioration was noted in the long-term. Conclusion The majority of the studies described good long-term outcomes in terms of anal continence after overlap sphincter repair. However, further studies are needed

Resumo Objetivo Diversas técnicas são usadas no reparo do esfíncter anal após lesões. O objetivo deste estudo é fazer uma análise completa dos desfechos nos curto e longo prazos do reparo por sobreposição após lesão do esfíncter anal. Métodos Realizou-se uma busca nas bases de dados PubMed, Medline, Embase, Scopus e Google Scholar entre janeiro de 2000 e janeiro de 2020. Estudos que descreviam desfechos específicos do reparo de esfíncter por sobreposição para incontinência fecal, com um mínimo de 1 ano de seguimento, foram selecionados. Resultados No total, 22 estudos descreviam os desfechos do reparo de esfíncter por sobreposição. No entanto, 14 estudos incluíam outras técnicas cirúrgicas além do reparo por sobreposição, e foram excluídos da análise. Por fim, dados de 8 estudos que incluíam 429 reparos foram analisados. Todos os estudos usaram pelo menos um instrumento objetivo, mas havia uma heterogeneidade significativa entre eles. A maioria dos pacientes era do sexo feminino (n=407; 94,87%), e a idade média dos indivíduos incluídos foi de 44,6 anos. A maioria das cirurgias foi realizada devido a lesões obstétricas (n=384; 89,51%). Os oito estudos incluídos descreveram os desfechos no longo prazo, e sete deles demonstraram melhoras estatisticamente significativas com relação à continência; um estudo descreveu resultados ruins em termos gerais com relação à continência. As pontuações no longo prazo foram significativamente melhores em comparação com as pontuações no pré-operatório. No entanto, em comparação com as pontuações no curto prazo, percebeu-se uma piora estatisticamente significativa no longo prazo. Conclusão A maioria dos estudos descrevia bons resultados no longo prazo em termos de continência anal depois do reparo do esfíncter por sobreposição. Entretanto mais estudos são necessários para que se identifiquem os fatores associados aos desfechos ruins para auxiliar na seleção de pacientes para o reparo por sobreposição.

Damming in the Madeira River modifies the food spectrum of piscivorous and affects their resource partitioning

Phylogenetic proximity suggests some degree of diet similarity among species. Usually, studies of diet show that species coexistence is allowed by partitioning food resources. We evaluate how visually oriented piscivorous fishes (Characiformes) share prey before and after building the Santo Antônio Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP) in the Madeira River (Brazil), the largest muddy-water tributary of the Amazon River. Piscivorous species (Acestrorhynchus falcirostris, Acestrorhynchus heterolepis, Hydrolycus scomberoides, and Rhaphiodon vulpinus) were sampled under pristine (pre-HPP) and disturbed (post-HPP) environmental conditions. We analyzed species abundance and stomach contents for stomach fullness and prey composition to check variations between congeneric and non-congeneric species. The percent volume of prey taxa was normalized by stomach fullness and grouped into the taxonomic family level to determine diet, niche breadth, and overlap. Only R. vulpinus abundance increased in post-HPP. There was no significant variation in niche breadth between the periods, while niche overlap decreased in congeneric and non-congeneric species. Our results indicate that river impoundment affected piscivorous fishes in distinct ways and modified their resource partitioning. Therefore, evaluate interspecific interactions is a required tool to understand how fishes respond to river damming.(AU)

A proximidade filogenética pode indicar similaridade da dieta entre espécies e a partilha de recursos alimentares é um mecanismo que possibilita a coexistência. Neste trabalho, avaliamos como peixes piscívoros compartilham presas antes e depois da construção da Usina Hidrelétrica (UHE) Santo Antônio no rio Madeira (Brasil), o maior afluente de águas brancas do rio Amazonas. Espécies piscívoras (Acestrorhynchus falcirostris, Acestrorhynchus heterolepis, Hydrolycus scomberoides e Rhaphiodon vulpinus) foram coletadas em condições ambientais pristinas (pré-HPP) e impactadas (pós-HPP). Nós avaliamos as abundâncias e as dietas para identificar variações entre as espécies congenéricas e não-congenéricas. O percentual de volume de cada presa foi corrigido pelo grau de repleção estomacal e os itens agrupados ao nível taxonômico de família para determinar dieta, amplitude e sobreposição alimentar. Apenas a abundância de R. vulpinus aumentou no pós-HPP. Não houve diferença na amplitude alimentar das espécies após o represamento, contudo a sobreposição de nicho diminuiu para as espécies congenéricas e não congenéricas. Nossos resultados indicam que o represamento do rio afetou os peixes piscívoros modificando sua partilha de recursos. Avaliar as interações interespecíficas, portanto, é uma ferramenta necessária para entender como os peixes respondem ao represamento de rios.(AU)

Clinical, laboratory, and functional characteristics of asthma-COPD overlap in patients with a primary diagnosis of COPD / Características clínicas, laboratoriais e funcionais da sobreposição asma-DPOC em pacientes previamente diagnosticados com DPOC

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the frequency of asthma-COPD overlap (ACO) in patients with COPD and to compare, from a clinical, laboratory, and functional point of view, patients with and without ACO, according to different diagnostic criteria. Methods: The participants underwent evaluation by a pulmonologist, together with spirometry and blood tests. All of the patients were instructed to record their PEF twice a day. The diagnosis of ACO was based on the Proyecto Latinoamericano de Investigación en Obstrucción Pulmonar (PLATINO, Latin American Project for the Investigation of Obstructive Lung Disease) criteria, the American Thoracic Society (ATS) Roundtable criteria, and the Spanish criteria. We investigated patient histories of exacerbations and hospitalizations, after which we applied the COPD Assessment Test and the modified Medical Research Council scale, to classify risk and symptoms in accordance with the GOLD criteria. Results: Of the 51 COPD patients, 14 (27.5%), 8 (12.2%), and 18 (40.0) were diagnosed with ACO on the basis of the PLATINO, ATS Roundtable, and Spanish criteria, respectively. The values for pre-bronchodilator FVC, post-bronchodilator FVC, and pre-bronchodilator FEV1 were significantly lower among the patients with ACO than among those with COPD only (1.9 ± 0.4 L vs. 2.4 ± 0.7 L, 2.1 ± 0.5 L vs. 2.5 ± 0.8 L, and 1.0 ± 0.3 L vs. 1.3 ± 0.5 L, respectively). When the Spanish criteria were applied, IgE levels were significantly higher among the patients with ACO than among those with COPD only (363.7 ± 525.9 kU/L vs. 58.2 ± 81.6 kU/L). A history of asthma was more common among the patients with ACO (p < 0.001 for all criteria). Conclusions: In our sample, patients with ACO were more likely to report previous episodes of asthma and had worse lung function than did those with COPD only. The ATS Roundtable criteria appear to be the most judicious, although concordance was greatest between the PLATINO and the Spanish criteria.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a frequência de asthma-COPD overlap (ACO, sobreposição asma-DPOC) em pacientes com DPOC e comparar, do ponto de vista clínico, laboratorial e funcional, os pacientes com e sem essa sobreposição conforme diferentes critérios diagnósticos. Métodos: Os participantes foram submetidos à avaliação com pneumologista, espirometria e exame sanguíneo, sendo orientados a manter o registro do PFE duas vezes ao dia. O diagnóstico de ACO deu-se através dos critérios Projeto Latino-Americano de Investigação em Obstrução Pulmonar (PLATINO), American Thoracic Society (ATS) Roundtable e Espanhol. Foram investigados os históricos de exacerbações e hospitalizações e aplicados os instrumentos COPD Assessment Test e escala Medical Research Council modificada, utilizados para a classificação de risco e sintomas da GOLD. Resultados: Entre os 51 pacientes com DPOC, 14 (27,5%), 8 (12,2%) e 18 (40,0) foram diagnosticados com ACO segundo os critérios PLATINO, ATS Roundtable e Espanhol, respectivamente. Pacientes com sobreposição significativamente apresentaram pior CVF pré-broncodilatador (1,9 ± 0,4 L vs. 2,4 ± 0,7 L), CVF pós-broncodilatador (2,1 ± 0,5 L vs. 2,5 ± 0,8 L) e VEF1 pré-broncodilatador (1,0 ± 0,3 L vs. 1,3 ± 0,5 L) quando comparados a pacientes com DPOC. Os níveis de IgE foram significativamente mais elevados em pacientes com sobreposição diagnosticados pelo critério Espanhol (363,7 ± 525,9 kU/L vs. 58,2 ± 81,6 kU/L). O histórico de asma foi mais frequente em pacientes com a sobreposição (p < 0,001 para todos os critérios). Conclusões: Nesta amostra, pacientes com ACO relataram asma prévia com maior frequência e possuíam pior função pulmonar quando comparados a pacientes com DPOC. O critério ATS Roundtable aparenta ser o mais criterioso em sua definição, enquanto os critérios PLATINO e Espanhol apresentaram maior concordância entre si.

Feeding strategy and morphology as indicators of habitat use and coexistence of two loricariid fishes from a Brazilian coastal stream / Estratégia alimentar e morfologia como indicativos do uso do habitat e da coexistência de dois loricarídeos em um riacho costeiro do Brasil

Abstract: We aimed to evaluate the relationship between form and function of two Loricariidae species (Hypostomus punctatus and Parotocinclus maculicauda) from a Neotropical coastal stream. We performed morphological-dietary analysis and discussed their coexistence strategies, as well. We hypothesized that both species use similar food resources according to their morphology but differences in habitat use facilitate their coexistence. In order to test this hypothesis, morphology, diet and habitat use were analyzed for both species. Trophic variance and the Pianka Niche Overlap index were calculated to explore the differences in trophic niche. Correlations between species abundance and water flow were applied to test habitat use. Principal Component Analysis and one Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance were applied to test differences between morphology and diet of both species. Morphological-dietary relationships were tested with Mantel test correlations. Total abundance of H. punctatus was higher in the stream channel with higher water flow. The dominant food items were sediment and organic matter for both species, and high trophic niche overlap was revealed. Additionally, morphology did not explain feeding habits for both species. Morphological characteristics were significantly different, especially for intestine length, relative area of the dorsal fin, ventral flattening and mouth attributes. The study site was rich in sand sediment, mud, and clay that are not considered good substrates to the establishment and growing of periphyton, which is an important trophic resource to Loricariidae species. Here, low consumption of periphyton can provide a possible explanation for the feeding similarity and the weak morphological-dietary relationships for both species. Thus, the environmental conditions can be more important for diet composition when compared to the similar and specialized morphology of loricariids.

Resumo: Nós tivemos como objetivo avaliar a relação entre forma e função em duas espécies de Loricariidae (Hypostomus punctatus e Parotocinclus maculicauda) de um riacho costeiro neotropical. Nós testamos as relações entre morfologia e dieta e também discutimos suas estratégias de coexistência. Nossa hipótese é de que as duas espécies utilizam os mesmos recursos alimentares de acordo com sua morfologia, porém diferenças no uso do habitat facilitam sua coexistência. Para testar essa hipótese, a morfologia, a dieta e o uso do habitat foram analisados em ambas as espécies. A variância trófica e o Índice de Sobreposição de Nicho de Pianka foram calculados para explorar as diferenças no nicho trófico. Correlações entre a abundância das espécies e velocidade da água foram aplicadas para testar o uso do habitat. Análises de Componentes Principais e Análises de Variância Multivariada Permutacional foram aplicadas para testar as diferenças entre morfologia e dieta para ambas as espécies. As correlações entre morfologia e dieta foram testadas a partir de correlações com teste de Mantel. A abundância total de H. punctatus foi maior no canal do riacho com maior velocidade no fluxo da água. Os itens alimentares dominantes foram detrito/sedimento e matéria orgânica em ambas as espécies e uma alta sobreposição de nicho alimentar foi encontrada. Adicionalmente, a morfologia não explicou os hábitos alimentares para ambas as espécies. As características morfológicas foram significativamente diferentes, em especial o comprimento do intestino, área relativa da nadadeira dorsal, achatamento dorsoventral e atributos da boca. A localidade de estudo é rica em substrato de areia, lodo e argila, que não são consideradas superfícies propícias para o estabelecimento e crescimento do perifíton, um recurso alimentar importante para as espécies de Loricariidae. Neste estudo, o baixo consumo de perifíton pode explicar a similaridade trófica e a baixa correlação entre morfologia e dieta em ambas as espécies. Dessa forma, as condições ambientais podem ser mais importantes para definir a composição da dieta quando comparadas a morfologia similar e especializada desses loricarídeos..

Superimposition of 3D maxillary digital models using open-source software

Abstract Historically, whether for research purposes or clinical monitoring, orthodontic evaluation of dental movements has been done using plaster study models and two dimensional (2D) radiographs. However, new frontiers for the diagnosis, planning and outcome assessment of orthodontic treatments have arisen, due to the revolutionary digital tools which enable a three dimensional (3D) computerized analysis of dental movements by means of digital models. However, the software for 3D analysis are often costly, resulting in limited access to orthodontists. The present study aims to describe, through a clinical case presented to the Brazilian Board of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, a method for the superimposition of maxillary digital models using an open-source software to evaluate dental movements.

Resumo Historicamente, a avaliação ortodôntica da movimentação dentária, seja com finalidade de pesquisa, seja para monitoramento clínico, tem sido feita por meio de modelos de estudo em gesso e radiografias em duas dimensões (2D). Entretanto, com o desenvolvimento da Ortodontia digital, novas fronteiras para o diagnóstico, planejamento e avaliação dos resultados dos tratamentos ortodônticos têm surgido. Os modelos digitais possibilitam uma análise computadorizada da movimentação dentária nas três dimensões (3D); porém, os softwares usados para as análises 3D geralmente são onerosos e de limitado acesso aos clínicos. O presente artigo visa descrever um método de sobreposição de modelos 3D da arcada dentária superior utilizando um software de livre acesso para avaliar a movimentação dentária, ilustrado por um caso clínico apresentado ao Board Brasileiro de Ortodontia e Ortopedia Facial.

Food resource partitioning among species of Astyanax (Characiformes: Characidae) in the Lower Iguaçu River and tributaries, Brazil

Resource partitioning allows for interspecific coexistence and is frequently reported for similar species. Here, we predicted the existence of resource partitioning among species of Astyanax that co-occur in the Low Iguaçu River and tributaries in Brazil. A total of 848 stomachs of five species of Astyanax were analyzed. Algae, terrestrial plant and fruit/seed were the most consumed resources. Astyanax bifasciatus and A. dissimilis had predominantly herbivorous diets, A. gymnodontus and A. lacustris were omnivorous, and A. minor was mainly algivorous. Permutational analysis of variance showed the species had different diets, and similarity percentage analysis indicated that fruit/seed and terrestrial plant contributed the most to this differentiation. A paired comparison indicated that the trophic breadth of A. gymnodontus differed from that of other species. The food overlap was low for 55% of Astyanax pairs. These results showed alignment with the niche theory, in which differentiation in the use of food resources facilitates the coexistence of species and minimizes competition. These adjustments to coexistence become relevant in the context of endemic species in a highly isolated basin under intense threat (dams, species introduction, deforestation, and pollution) as is the case for the Iguaçu River basin.(AU)

O particionamento de recursos permite a coexistência interespecífica e é frequentemente relatado para espécies semelhantes. Predizemos a existência de partição de recursos entre espécies de Astyanax que co-ocorrem no baixo rio Iguaçu. O total de 848 estômagos de cinco espécies de Astyanax foi analisado. Algas, plantas terrestres e frutos/sementes foram os recursos mais consumidos. Astyanax bifasciatus e A. dissimilis apresentaram dietas predominantemente herbívoras, A. gymnodontus e A. lacustris foram onívoras e A. minor foi principalmente algívora. As espécies apresentaram diferentes dietas (PERMANOVA) e a análise SIMPER indicou que frutos/sementes e plantas terrestres tiveram maior contribuição para esta diferenciação. A comparação pareada mostrou que a amplitude trófica de A. gymnodontus diferiu das outras espécies. A sobreposição alimentar foi baixa para 55% dos pares de Astyanax. Nossos resultados mostraram-se alinhados com a teoria de nicho, em que a diferenciação no uso de recursos alimentares facilita a coexistência de espécies e minimiza a competição. Estes ajustes para coexistência tornam-se relevantes no contexto de espécies endêmicas em uma bacia altamente isolada e sob intensa ameaça (barramentos, introdução de espécies, desmatamento e poluição), como é o caso da bacia do rio Iguaçu.(AU)

Stimulus-response dimensional overlap elicits a decreasing Simon effect along the vertical dimension / A sobreposição dimensional entre o estímulo e a resposta na dimensão vertical provoca um decaimento do efeito Simon / Superposición dimensional induce la disminución del efecto Simon en la dimensión vertical

In Simon task, the response is faster when stimulus and response locations are spatially correspondent than when they are on opposite sides (Simon effect - SE). The SE was found with both horizontal and vertical stimulus-response arrangements. The horizontal SE decreases as reaction times increase. In contrast, the vertical SE does not decay over time. In this work, we investigate the vertical SE when both stimuli and responses are located along the vertical dimension. Results showed a decreasing SE occurring along the vertical dimension suggesting that similar underlying mechanisms may be involved both for the horizontal and vertical Simon effects.

Na tarefa de Simon, a resposta é mais rápida quando os locais do estímulo e da resposta são espacialmente correspondentes do que quando estão em lados opostos (efeito Simon - ES). O ES foi observado ao longo das dimensões horizontal e vertical. O ES horizontal diminui à medida que aumenta o tempo de reação, o que não ocorre com o ES vertical. Neste trabalho, investigamos o ES vertical com estímulos e respostas localizados ambos ao longo da dimensão vertical. Os resultados mostraram um ES decrescente na dimensão vertical sugerindo que mecanismos semelhantes estão envolvidos nos efeitos Simon horizontal e vertical.

En la tarea de Simón, la respuesta es más rápida cuando el estímulo y la respuesta son espacialmente correspondientes que cuando están en lados opuestos (efecto Simon - ES). La ES se observó en las dimensiones horizontal y vertical. El ES horizontal disminuye con el aumento del tiempo de reacción, lo que no ocurre con ES vertical. En este trabajo, se investigó el ES vertical con estímulos y respuestas situadas en la dimensión vertical. Los resultados mostraron una disminución del ES en la dimensión vertical lo que sugiere que mecanismos similares están implicados en los efectos Simon horizontal y vertical.

Síndrome de sobreposição asma e DPOC / Asthma-COPD overlap syndrome

Asma e doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) são doenças crônicas altamente prevalentes na população geral. Ambas são caracterizadas por inflamação crônica heterogênea e obstrução das vias aéreas. Em ambas as condições, a inflamação crônica afeta todo o trato respiratório das grandes e pequenas vias aéreas, com recrutamento de diferentes células e com diferentes mediadores produzidos. A obstrução das vias aéreas é tipicamente intermitente e reversível na asma, mas é progressiva e frequentemente irreversível na DPOC. Quando asma e DPOC ocorrem juntas, o termo síndrome de sobreposição asma e DPOC tem sido usado. Realizou-se revisão de artigos originais, revisões e publicações indexadas nos bancos de dados PubMed, MEDLINE, LILACS e SciELO nos últimos 20 anos. Uma forma prática de diagnóstico da Síndrome de sobreposição asma e DPOC é incluir pacientes com diagnóstico de DPOC pelo critério do GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) e da Asma pelo critério do GINA (Global Initiative for Asthma). Assim, a síndrome inclui pacientes que preenchem os critérios de DPOC (obstrução fixa das vias aéreas) e que também têm típicos achados de asma (sibilância, atopia, eosinofilia e resposta positiva a broncodilatador). A presença de diferentes fenótipos ou componentes das doenças aéreas obstrutivas crônicas necessita ser analisada para individualizar e otimizar o tratamento para se alcançar os melhores resultados. Embora intervenções específicas variem conforme a doença, o objetivo do tratamento para as doenças obstrutivas respiratórias é semelhante e dirigido primariamente para a necessidade de controlar os sintomas, otimizar a saúde geral, e prevenir exacerbações.

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are highly prevalent chronic diseases in the general population. Both conditions are characterized by heterogeneous chronic airway inflammation and airway obstruction. In both cases, chronic inflammation affects the whole respiratory tract, from central to peripheral airways, with different inflammatory cells recruited and different mediators produced. Airway obstruction is typically intermittent and reversible in asthma, but it is progressive and largely irreversible in COPD. When asthma and COPD co-occur, the term asthma-COPD overlap syndrome has been applied. This paper presents a review of original articles, reviews and other materials indexed in the PubMed, MEDLINE, LILACS, and SciELO databases and published over the last 20 years. A practical approach to diagnosis of the asthma-COPD overlap syndrome has been to include patients with a diagnosis of COPD according to GOLD criteria (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) and of asthma according to GINA criteria (Global Initiative for Asthma). Therefore, the combined syndrome includes patients who meet criteria for COPD (fixed airflow obstruction) and also have typical features of asthma (wheezing, atopy, eosinophilia, and positive bronchodilator response). The presence of different phenotypes or components of obstructive airway diseases needs to be analyzed so that treatment can be individualized and optimized to achieve the best results for each patient. Even though specific interventions vary by disease, treatment goals for patients with obstructive airway diseases are similar and driven primarily by the need to control symptoms, optimize health status, and prevent exacerbations.

Feeding ecology of two sympatric species of large-sized groupers (Perciformes: Epinephelidae) on Southwestern Atlantic coralline reefs

Red and black groupers are large-bodied opportunistic ambush predators commonly found in Southwestern Atlantic tropical reefs. We investigated the diet of both species in order to detail ontogenetic, spatial and temporal trends, and to assess the extent of overlap in resource use between these two sympatric predators on the Abrolhos Bank, Brazil. Decapods and fishes were the main food items of Epinephelus morio while fishes were the main prey of Mycteroperca bonaci. Both diets were significantly influenced by body size and habitat, but only smaller individuals of E. morio feed almost exclusively on crustaceans. While the two groupers rely on many of the same prey types, coexistence may be facilitated by E. morio feeding more heavily on crustaceans, particularly the blackpoint sculling crab Cronius ruber, while black grouper take comparatively few crustaceans but lots of fish prey. Predators like red and black groupers could trigger indirect effects in the community and influence a large range of ecological processes, such as linkages between top and intermediate predators, and intermediate predators and their resources.(AU)

A garoupa e o badejo-verdadeiro são predadores oportunistas de grande porte, com estratégia de emboscada, comumente encontrados em recifes tropicais do Atlântico Sul. A dieta das duas espécies foi investigada, avaliando influências ontogenéticas, espaciais e temporais, assim como a sobreposição no uso de recursos entre estes dois predadores co-orrentes no Banco dos Abrolhos, Brasil. Decápodes e peixes foram os principais itens alimentares de Epinephelus morio, enquanto que os peixes foram as principais presas de Mycteroperca bonaci. Ambas as dietas foram significativamente influenciadas pelo tamanho corporal e habitat, mas apenas indivíduos menores de E. morio alimentaram-se quase que exclusivamente de crustáceos. Como as duas espécies utilizam muitas presas semelhantes, a coexistencia parece ser facilitada pelo fato de E. morio se alimentar principalmente de crustáceos, particularmente do caranguejo Cronius ruber, enquanto que o badejo-verdadeiro consome relativamente poucos crustáceos e grande quantidade de peixes. Predadores como as espécies estudadas podem causar efeitos indiretos na comunidade e influenciar uma grande variedade de processos ecológicos, como conexões entre predadores de topo e intermediários e predadores intermediários e seus recursos.(AU)

Resource use by two electric fishes (Gymnotiformes) of the National Forest Saracá-Taquera, Oriximiná, Pará

Fishes of the order Gymnotiformes have high diversity of oral and head morphology, which suggests trophic specializations within each clade. The aim of this study was to describe resource use patterns by two fish species (Gymnorhamphichthys rondoni and Gymnotus coropinae) in the National Forest Saracá-Taquera, Oriximiná - Pará, analyzing microhabitat use, diet composition, feeding strategies, niche breadth and niche overlap. Stomach contents of 101 individuals (41 G. rondoni and 60 G. coropinae), sampled in 23 headwater streams were analyzed and volume of food items was quantified to characterize their feeding ecology. Gymnorhamphichthys rondoni was captured mainly on sandy bottoms, whereas G. coropinae in crevices. Both species had a zoobenthivorous diet and consumed predominantly Sediment/Detritus and Diptera larvae, but also included allochthonous prey in their diet. These species had high niche overlap, with small variations related to the higher consumption of Ceratopogonidae larvae by G. rondoni and of Chironomidae larvae by G. coropinae. Both species had a generalist feeding strategy, but G. coropinae had a broader niche breadth. Our results demonstrate that G. rondoni and G. coropinae occupy different microhabitats but rely on similar food resources.(AU)

Peixes da ordem Gymnotiformes apresentam alta diversidade morfológica, o que sugere a existência de especializações tróficas dentro dos clados. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o uso de recursos por duas espécies de peixes elétricos (Gymnorhamphichthys rondoni e Gymnotus coropinae) na Floresta Nacional Saracá-Taquera, Oriximiná - Pará, analisando o uso de microhabitats, composição da dieta, estratégias alimentares, amplitude de nicho e sobreposição de nicho. Conteúdos estomacais de 101 indivíduos (41 G. rondoni e 60 G. coropinae), capturados em 23 igarapés de cabeceira, foram analisados e quantificados volumetricamente para a caracterização da ecologia trófica. Gymnorhamphichthys rondoni foi registrada principalmente em bancos de areia, enquanto G. coropinae em fendas. Ambas as espécies apresentaram dieta zoobentívora e consumiram predominantemente sedimento/detritos e larvas de Diptera, mas também consumiram presas alóctones. Foi observada alta sobreposição de nicho trófico e a baixa variação encontrada foi relacionada à maior utilização de larvas de Chironomidae por G. rondoni e de larvas de Ceratopogonidae por G. coropinae. Ambas as espécies apresentaram estratégia alimentar generalista, porém G. coropinae apresentou maior amplitude de nicho. Nossos resultados demonstram que G. rondoni e G. coropinae ocupam microhabitats diferentes, mas dependem de recursos alimentares similares.(AU)

Diet of two syntopic species of Crenuchidae (Ostariophysi: Characiformes) in an Amazonian rocky stream / Dieta de duas espécies sintópicas de Crenuchidae (Ostariophysi: Characiformes) em um riacho rochoso amazônico

Abstract This study assessed the diet of two poorly known syntopic fish species of the family Crenuchidae, Characidium aff. declivirostre and Leptocharacidium omospilus, in a Presidente Figueiredo´ rocky stream, Amazonas, Brazil. The stomach contents were analyzed and their Frequency of Occurrence (FO %) and Relative Volume (Vol %) were combined in a Feeding Index (IAi). We examined 20 individuals of C. aff. declivirostre and 23 of L. omospilus. The Morisita-Horn Index was used to estimate the overlap between the diets of these species. Immature insects were the most valuable items consumed by both fish species. The diet of C. aff. declivirostre was mainly composed of larvae and pupae of Chironomidae, while L. omospilus predominantly consumed larvae of Hydroptilidae, Hydropyschidae and Pyralidae. Thus, both species were classified as autochthonous insectivorous. Characidium aff. declivirostre was considered a more specialized species, probably reflecting lower feeding plasticity or the use of more restricted microhabitats compared to L. omospilus. When the food items were analyzed at the family taxonomic level, the diet overlap between these species was considered moderate (Morisita-Horn Index = 0.4). However, a more thorough analysis, at the genus level, indicates a very low diet overlap. Therefore, we conclude that the feeding segregation between C. aff. declivirostre and L. omospilus may favor their co-existence, despite their high phylogenetic closeness.

Resumo O presente estudo investigou a dieta de duas espécies de peixes pouco conhecidas da família Crenuchidae, Characidium aff. declivirostre e Leptocharacidium omospilus, sintópicas de um riacho de corredeira do município de Presidente Figueiredo, Estado do Amazonas, Brasil. O conteúdo estomacal de cada exemplar foi analisado pelos métodos de Frequência de Ocorrência (FO%) e Volume Relativo (Vol%) e, posteriormente, combinados para o cálculo do Índice Alimentar (IAi). Foram analisados 20 indivíduos de C. aff. declivirostre e 23 de L. omospilus. A sobreposição entre a dieta das duas espécies foi estimada pelo Índice Simplificado de Morisita-Horn. Insetos imaturos foram os principais itens consumidos por ambas as espécies. A dieta de C. aff. declivirostre mostrou preferência acentuada por larvas e pupas de Chironomidae, enquanto que a dieta de L. omospilus concentrou-se em larvas de Hydroptilidae, de Hydropyschidae e de Pyralidae. Portanto, as espécies foram classificadas troficamente como insetívoras consumidoras de itens autóctones. A dieta de C. aff. declivirostre foi mais especializada, o que pode ser reflexo de uma menor plasticidade alimentar ou do uso de microhabitats mais restritos, quando comparado a L. omospilus. Ao analisar os itens alimentares em nível taxonômico de família, a sobreposição alimentar foi considerada moderada (Índice de Morisita-Horn = 0,4). Entretanto, análises mais refinadas, em nível de gênero, indicaram sobreposição muito baixa na dieta. Conclui-se que tal segregação alimentar pode favorecer a coexistência de C. aff. declivirostre e L. omospilus, mesmo que sejam espécies filogeneticamente próximas.

Comparative feeding ecology of four syntopic Hypostomus species in a Brazilian southeastern river / Ecologia alimentar comparativa de quatro espécies simpátricas de Hypostomus em um rio do sudoeste brasileiro

Abstract Though their broad distribution in most Brazilian rivers, scarce studies concerning ecological interactions on Hypostomus species are available. This study observes the diet, the trophic interactions and some morphological aspects of four syntopic species of Hypostomus. These fishes were studied at the superior part of the Corumbataí river, at São Paulo state, southeastern Brazil. Analyses focused feeding patterns, their amplitude and whether there happens some food items overlap among the species. Fish were caught using cast nets at some points of the river. Species were chosen according to their local abundance and, so there were four main species: H. albopunctatus, H. ancistroides, H. regani and H. strigaticeps. Nine food items were found: sediments, fungi, diatoms, green algae, Tecamoeba, vegetal debris and invertebrates. There were not significant differences for the feeding pattern among the four Hypostomus species. The feeding niche amplitude has been larger for H. albopunctatus influenced by a larger amount of vegetal debris and invertebrates. Elevated niche overlap was found to happen among the species and also for their trophic morphology. Results may suggest that there is a similar pattern in food taken between four species of Hypostomus analyzed since all consume similar environmental resources and have similar anatomical features. However, a different intake insect larvae and plant material in H. albopunctatus diet indicate differences in local and how this species may be exploring their food compared to the others.

Resumo Apesar de sua grande distribuição em todos rios brasileiros, poucos estudos estão disponíveis sobre as interações ecológicas do gênero Hypostomus. Neste estudo nós examinamos a dieta, as interações tróficas e a morfologia de quatro espécies sintópicas de Hypostomus sp. no trecho superior do rio Corumbataí, estado de São Paulo no sudeste do Brasil. As análises focaram o padrão alimentar, a amplitude e sobreposição de nicho alimentar e a correlação entre a dieta com características da morfologia. A captura dos exemplares foi realizada com o uso de redes de arremesso (tarrafa) ao longo do leito do rio. O critério adotado para a escolha baseou-se nas espécies de maior abundância no local, chegando a quatros espécies principais: H. albopunctatus, H. ancistroides, H. regani e H. strigaticeps. Foram encontrados nove itens alimentares: sedimento grosso e fino, hifas de fungos, diatomáceas, algas verdes, algas azuis, Tecamoeba, restos de material vegetal e invertebrados, não havendo diferenças significativas no padrão alimentar entre as quatro espécies de Hypostomus. A amplitude de nicho alimentar foi maior para H. albopunctatus influenciada por um maior consumo de material vegetal e invertebrados. Foram encontrados altos valores de sobreposição de nicho alimentar além de uma similaridade entre a dieta e a morfologia trófica entre as espécies consideradas. Os resultados sugerem que exista um padrão semelhante na tomada de alimento entre as quatros espécies de Hypostomus analisadas, uma vez que, todas consomem recursos alimentares semelhantes e possuam características anatômicas semelhantes. No entanto, uma ingestão diferenciada de larvas de insetos e material vegetal na dieta de H. albopunctatus indicam diferenças nos locais e na forma como esta espécie pode estar explorando o seu alimento em comparação com as demais.

Overlap between systemic sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis: a distinct clinical entity?

INTRODUCTION: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease of the connective tissue characterized by the triad of vascular injury, autoimmunity (cellular and humoral) and tissue fibrosis. It is estimated that musculoskeletal pain is a common complaint of patients with SSc, ranging from 40 to 80%, and mainly in patients with early diffuse disease. Arthritis, clinically observed, may be a feature seen in the presentation of SSc, often leading to early diagnostic errors with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the course of the disease, arthritis is observed in 24-97% of patients with SSc. OBJECTIVES: To correlate the occurrence or nonoccurrence of arthritis in patients with SSc of the Midwest region of Brazil with possible distinct clinical and laboratory manifestations observed in three groups of patients. To report the frequency of true association between systemic sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis in patients with clinically and radiologically observed synovitis. METHODS: Sixty-one SSc patients were subsequently assessed every 3 months within 1 year, in order to clinically observe the occurrence of synovitis and its patterns of progression. Patients were divided into 3 groups: 41 patients with SSc without arthritis, 16 SSc patients with arthritis and 4 patients with overlap of SSc and RA. All patients underwent a radiological examination of the hands at the end of the study. RESULTS: Among all patients evaluated, we found a female predominance (98.7%), mean age of 50.94 years, white color (49.2%), limited form of the disease (47.6%), time of diagnosis between 5 and 10 years (47.6%) and duration of the disease of 8.30 years. Among all patients, 14 (22.9%) had positive rheumatoid factor (RF), while among those with positive RF, only 10 patients had arthritis during one-year follow-up. The antibody anticitrulline (anti-CCP) test was performed in 24 patients, being positive in 4 of them (16.7%), with positivity being observed only in patients with SSc/RA overlap. Comparing the clinical manifestations among the groups of patients, there was a higher incidence of gastritis and cardiac valvulopathy in patients with SSc and arthritis, but not in the others. In the group of patients with SSc/RA overlap and in patients with SSc and arthritis a significant reduction in quality of life was observed, measured by HAQ index, especially in patients with arthritis present during clinical evaluation. We found radiographic changes in 42.6% of patients with SSc. However, in patients with synovitis, radiological changes consistent with rheumatoid arthritis were found in 50% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: While the frequency of clinical arthritis observed in patients with systemic sclerosis was 32.8%, the true overlap between of SSc and RA was 6.6% in this study. We also observed the frequency of positive anti-CCP in 20% of patients with arthritis versus no patients with SSc without arthritis.

Overlap between systemic sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis: a distinct clinical entity? / Sobreposição de esclerose sistêmica e artrite reumatoide: uma entidade clínica distinta?

ABSTRACT Introduction: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease of the connective tissue characterized by the triad of vascular injury, autoimmunity (cellular and humoral) and tissue fibrosis. It is estimated that musculoskeletal pain is a common complaint of patients with SSc, ranging from 40 to 80%, and mainly in patients with early diffuse disease. Arthritis, clinically observed, may be a feature seen in the presentation of SSc, often leading to early diagnostic errors with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the course of the disease, arthritis is observed in 24–97% of patients with SSc. Objectives: To correlate the occurrence or nonoccurrence of arthritis in patients with SSc of the Midwest region of Brazil with possible distinct clinical and laboratory manifestations observed in three groups of patients. To report the frequency of true association between systemic sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis in patients with clinically and radiologically observed synovitis. Methods: Sixty-one SSc patients were subsequently assessed every 3 months within 1 year, in order to clinically observe the occurrence of synovitis and its patterns of progression. Patients were divided into 3 groups: 41 patients with SSc without arthritis, 16 SSc patients with arthritis and 4 patients with overlap of SSc and RA. All patients underwent a radiological examination of the hands at the end of the study. Results: Among all patients evaluated, we found a female predominance (98.7%), mean age of 50.94 years, white color (49.2%), limited form of the disease (47.6%), time of diagnosis between 5 and 10 years (47.6%) and duration of the disease of 8.30 years. Among all patients, 14 (22.9%) had positive rheumatoid factor (RF), while among those with positive RF, only 10 patients had arthritis during one-year follow-up. The antibody anticitrulline (anti-CCP) test was performed in 24 patients, being positive in 4 of them (16.7%), with positivity being observed only in patients with SSc/RA overlap. Comparing the clinical manifestations among the groups of patients, there was a higher incidence of gastritis and cardiac valvulopathy in patients with SSc and arthritis, but not in the others. In the group of patients with SSc/RA overlap and in patients with SSc and arthritis a significant reduction in quality of life was observed, measured by HAQ index, especially in patients with arthritis present during clinical evaluation. We found radiographic changes in 42.6% of patients with SSc. However, in patients with synovitis, radiological changes consistent with rheumatoid arthritis were found in 50% of patients. Conclusions: While the frequency of clinical arthritis observed in patients with systemic sclerosis was 32.8%, the true overlap between of SSc and RA was 6.6% in this study. We also observed the frequency of positive anti-CCP in 20% of patients with arthritis versus no patients with SSc without arthritis.

RESUMO Introdução: A esclerose sistêmica (ES) é uma enfermidade do tecido conjuntivo de caráter autoimune caracterizada pela tríade de injúria vascular, autoimunidade (celular e humoral) e fibrose tecidual. Estima-se que a dor musculoesquelética seja uma queixa frequente dos pacientes com ES, que oscila entre 40% e 80%, e principalmente em pacientes com doença difusa precoce. A artrite, clinicamente observada, pode ser uma característica observada na apresentação da ES, frequentemente leva a erros diagnósticos iniciais com artrite reumatoide (AR). No curso da enfermidade, a artrite é observada em 24% a 97% dos pacientes com ES. Objetivos: Correlacionar a ocorrência ou não de artrite em pacientes com ES da região Centro-Oeste do Brasil com possíveis manifestações clínicas e laboratoriais distintas observadas em três grupos de pacientes. Relatar a frequência de verdadeira associação entre esclerose sistêmica e artrite reumatoide em pacientes com sinovite clínica e radiologicamente observada. Métodos: Foram avaliados 61 pacientes portadores de ES subsequentemente a cada três meses durante um ano, para fins de se constatar clinicamente a ocorrência de sinovite e padrões de evolução. Os pacientes foram divididos em três grupos: 41 com ES sem artrite, 16 com ES com artrite e quatro com sobreposição entre ES e AR. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a exame radiológicos das mãos no fim do estudo. Resultados: Dentre todos os pacientes avaliados, encontrou-se predomínio feminino (98,7%), idade média de 50,94 anos, cor branca (49,2%), forma limitada da doença (47,6%), tempo de diagnóstico entre cinco e 10 anos (47,6%) e tempo de evolução da doença de 8,30 anos. Entre todos os pacientes, 14 (22,9%) apresentavam fator reumatoide (FR) positivo, embora entre aqueles com FR positivo apenas 10 apresentaram artrite durante o seguimento de um ano. O anticorpo anticitrulina (anti- CCP) foi feito em 24 pacientes, com positividade em quatro deles (16,7%), observada somente nos pacientes com sobreposição ES/AR. Na comparação das manifestações clínicas entre os grupos de pacientes, observou-se a maior ocorrência de gastrite e valvulopatia cardíaca em pacientes com ES e artrite, mas não nos demais grupos. No grupo de pacientes com overlap ES/AR e nos pacientes com ES e artrite observou-se redução importante de qualidade de vida, medida pelo índice HAQ, sobretudo nos pacientes com artrite presente no momento da avaliação clínica. Encontramos alterações radiográficas em 42,6% dos pacientes com ES. Contudo, nos pacientes com sinovite, encontraram-se alterações radiológicas compatíveis com artrite reumatoide em 50%. Conclusões: Enquanto a frequência de artrite clínica observada em pacientes com esclerose sistêmica foi de 32,8%, a verdadeira sobreposição entre ES e AR foi de 6,6% neste estudo. Observou-se ainda a frequência de anti-CCP positivo em 20% dos pacientes com artrite contra nenhum paciente com ES sem artrite.

Diel vertical migration and spatial overlap between fish larvae and zooplankton in two tropical lakes, Brazil / Migração vertical diária e sobreposição espacial entre larvas de peixes e zooplâncton em dois lagos tropicais, Brasil

The effect of fish larvae on the diel vertical migration of the zooplankton community was investigated in two tropical lakes, Finado Raimundo and Pintado lakes, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. Nocturnal and diurnal samplings were conducted in the limnetic region of each lake for 10 consecutive months from April 2008 to January 2009. The zooplankton community presented a wide range of responses to the predation pressure exerted by fish larvae in both environments, while fish larvae showed a typical pattern of normal diel vertical migration. Our results also demonstrated that the diel vertical migration is an important behaviour to avoid predation, since it reduces the spatial overlap between prey and potential predator, thus supporting the hypothesis that vertical migration is a defence mechanism against predation.

O efeito de larvas de peixes sobre a distribuição vertical dia-noite da comunidade zooplanctônica foi investigada em duas lagoas tropicais, lagoa Finado Raimundo e Pintado, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Foram realizadas amostragens noturnas e diurnas na região limnética de cada lagoa durante um período de 10 meses consecutivos, entre abril de 2008 a janeiro de 2009. A comunidade zooplanctônica apresentou uma variada gama de respostas à pressão de predação exercida pelas larvas de peixes nos dois ambientes, enquanto que as larvas de peixes exibiram um padrão típico de migração vertical diária normal. Os resultados mostraram ainda, que a migração vertical diária é um comportamento importante para evitar a predação, uma vez que diminuiu a sobreposição espacial entre presa e seu predador em potencial, dando suporte a hipótese de que a migração vertical é um mecanismo de defesa contra a predação.

Feeding habits of the congeneric species Stellifer rastrifer and Stellifer brasiliensis (Acanthopterygii: Sciaenidae) co-occurring in the coast of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil / Hábitos alimentares das espécies congêneres Stellifer rastrifer e Stellifer brasiliensis (Acanthopterygii: Sciaenidae) co-ocorrendo na costa do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil

The objective of the present study was to investigate the feeding habits allowing the occurrence of the congeneric species Stellifer rastrifer and Stellifer brasiensis, collected on a seasonal basis, in the operating area of the artisanal seabob-shrimp trawl fishery in Porto Belo, an important fishing area on the southern Brazilian coast. Fish were collected seasonally from November 2009 to August 2010, in isobaths of 10, 20 and 30m. Of the 450 stomachs analyzed, 194 belongd to Stellifer rastrifer and 242 to Stellifer brasiliensis. From the totality of analyzed stomachs 33.49% were empty and 66.52% had some content. Crustacea were the predominant food category in the diet of S. rastrifer and S. brasiliensis, and the shrimp Acetes americanus was the most frequent crustacean in stomachs of both studied species. The overlapping in the diet of the species was high, however when analyzing the overlap in each season it was found that it occurred only during spring and winter. Although the most important items in the diet of these species are the same, the intake of each alternates in time, suggesting a difference in predation pressure, which leads to less direct competition in a given time.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar os hábitos alimentares que possibilitam a ocorrência das espécies congêneres Stellifer rastrifer e Stellifer brasiensis, coletados sazonalmente, na área operacional da pesca artesanal do camarão sete-barbas, em Porto Belo, uma área de pesca importante na costa sul do Brasil. Os peixes foram coletados sazonalmente de novembro de 2009 a agosto de 2010, em isóbatas de 10, 20 e 30m. Dos 450 estômagos analisadas, 194 eram de S. rastrifer e 242 de S. brasiliensis. Da totalidade dos estômagos analisados 33,49% estavam vazios enquanto 66,52% tinham algum conteúdo. Crustacea foi a categoria de alimento predominante na dieta, e o camarão Acetes americanus foi o crustáceo mais freqüente nos estômagos de ambas as espécies. A sobreposição na dieta foi alta, porém a cada estação do ano, verificou-se que a sobreposição ocorreu apenas durante a primavera e o inverno. Embora os itens mais importantes na dieta destas espécies sejam os mesmos, o consumo de cada um é alternado no tempo, o que sugere uma diferença na pressão de predação, levando a uma menor competição direta em um determinado momento.

[Childhood-onset systemic polyarteritis nodosa and systemic lupus erythematosus: an overlap syndrome?] / Poliartrite nodosa sistêmica e lúpus eritematoso sistêmico de início na infância: uma síndrome de sobreposição?

We described herein a patient who presented an overlap syndrome of childhood-onset systemic polyarteritis nodosa (c-PAN) and childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (c-SLE). A 9-year-old girl presented tender subcutaneous nodules on feet, arterial hypertension, right hemiplegia and dysarthric speech. She was hospitalized due to stroke and left foot drop. Brain computer tomography showed ischemic stroke. Magnetic resonance angiography revealed stenosis in the middle cerebral and internal carotid arteries. Electroneuromyography identified a mononeuropathy of left posterior tibial nerve and she fulfilled the c-PAN validated criteria. She was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone pulse therapy followed by prednisone, that was progressively tapered, six months of intravenous cyclophosphamide and after that she received azathioprine for 19 months. At the age of 14 years and 9 months, she presented malar rash, photosensitivity, edema in lower limbs and arterial hypertension. The proteinuria was 1.7g/day. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) were 1/1280 (homogeneous nuclear pattern) and anti-dsDNA antibodies were positive. Renal biopsy showed focal proliferative and membranous glomerulonephritis. Therefore, she fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for SLE and she was treated with prednisone, hydroxychloroquine and mycophenolate mofetil. In conclusion, we described herein a possible overlap syndrome of two autoimmune diseases, where c-PAN occurred five years before the c-SLE diagnosis.

[Overlap between systemic sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis: a distinct clinical entity?] / Sobreposição de esclerose sistêmica e artrite reumatoide: uma entidade clínica distinta?

INTRODUCTION: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease of the connective tissue characterized by the triad of vascular injury, autoimmunity (cellular and humoral) and tissue fibrosis. It is estimated that musculoskeletal pain is a common complaint of patients with SSc, ranging from 40 to 80%, and mainly in patients with early diffuse disease. Arthritis, clinically observed, may be a feature seen in the presentation of SSc, often leading to early diagnostic errors with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the course of the disease, arthritis is observed in 24 to 97% of patients with SSc. OBJECTIVES: To correlate the occurrence or nonoccurrence of arthritis in patients with SSc of the Midwest region of Brazil with possible distinct clinical and laboratory manifestations observed in three groups of patients. To report the frequency of true association between systemic sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis in patients with clinically and radiologically observed synovitis. METHODS: Sixty-one SSc patients were subsequently assessed every 3 months within 1 year, in order to clinically observe the occurrence of synovitis and its patterns of progression. Patients were divided into 3 groups: 41 patients with SSc without arthritis, 16 SSc patients with arthritis and 4 patients with overlap of SSc and RA. All patients underwent a radiological examination of the hands at the end of the study. RESULTS: Among all patients evaluated, we found a female predominance (98.7%), mean age of 50.94 years, white color (49.2%), limited form of the disease (47.6%), time of diagnosis between 5 to 10 years (47.6%) and duration of the disease of 8.30 years. Among all patients, 14 (22.9%) had positive rheumatoid factor (RF), while among those with positive RF, only 10 patients had arthritis during one-year follow-up. The antibody anticitrulline (anti-CCP) test was performed in 24 patients, being positive in 4 of them (16.7%), with positivity being observed only in patients with SSc/RA overlap. Comparing the clinical manifestations among the groups of patients, there was a higher incidence of gastritis and cardiac valvulopathy in patients with SSc and arthritis, but not in the others. In the group of patients with SSc/RA overlap and in patients with SSc and arthritis a significant reduction in quality of life was observed, measured by HAQ index, especially in patients with arthritis present during clinical evaluation. We found radiographic changes in 42.6% of patients with SSc. However, in patients with synovitis, radiological changes consistent with rheumatoid arthritis were found in 50% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: While the frequency of clinical arthritis observed in patients with systemic sclerosis was 32.8%, the true overlap between of SSc and RA was 6.6% in this study. We also observed the frequency of positive anti-CCP in 20% of patients with arthritis versus no patients with SSc without arthritis.