High species richness and turnover of vascular epiphytes is associated with water availability along the elevation gradient of Volcán Maderas, Nicaragua.

Research that has been conducted documenting species richness patterns on tropical mountains has resulted in conflicting observations: monotonic declines with increasing elevation, monotonic increases with increasing elevation, and a mid-elevation "bulge." Currently, it is unclear if these differences are due to environmental differences among study areas, the taxonomic groups or ecological groups (e.g., growth form) sampled, or the scale of study along elevation gradients. Because of the difficulty in sampling and identifying canopy-dwelling plants, the number of inventories quantifying tropical epiphytes is relatively limited and recent. In this study, we provide a detailed qualitative and quantitative assessment of the vascular epiphyte flora and its spatial distribution on Volcán Maderas, Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua, including weather and environmental measurements along the entire elevation gradient of the volcano. We sampled epiphytes in five distinct forest types associated with increasing elevation as follows: dry forest, humid forest, wet forest, cloud forest, and elfin forest. Five weather stations were placed along the elevation gradient for us to relate observed patterns to environmental conditions. A mid-elevation peak in species richness was detected for all vascular epiphytes at approximately 1000 m in elevation (cloud forest), yet epiphyte abundance increased with increasing elevation. In total we identified 206 taxa of vascular epiphytes belonging to 26 families and 73 genera. The most species-rich family was the Orchidaceae with 55 species for the entire elevation gradient, followed by Bromeliaceae (29 species), Araceae (23), Polypodiaceae (25), Dryopteridaceae (16), and Piperaceae (11), with all other families represented by fewer than 10 species each. We found that richness patterns differ phylogenetically across epiphyte groups, possibly due to different adaptive strategies, and species for the most part appear to be narrowly distributed within specific habitat zones along the elevation gradient. Variables associated with moisture, precipitation, humidity, mist, or cloud cover are key to understanding the observed patterns.

MicroRNAs in Obesity-Associated Disorders: The Role of Exercise Training.

Obesity is a worldwide epidemic affecting over 13% of the adult population and is defined by an excess of body fat that predisposes comorbidities. It is considered a multifactorial disease in which environmental and genetic factors interact, and it is a risk marker for cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle modifications remain the mainstay of treatment for obesity based on adequate diet and physical exercise. In addition, obesity is related to cardiovascular and skeletal muscle disorders, such as cardiac hypertrophy, microvascular rarefaction, and skeletal muscle atrophy. The discovery of obesity-involved molecular pathways is an important step to improve both the prevention and management of this disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of gene regulators which bind most commonly, but not exclusively, to the 3'-untranslated regions of messenger RNAs of protein-coding genes and negatively regulate their expression. Considerable effort has been made to identify miRNAs and target genes that predispose to obesity. Besides their intracellular function, recent studies have demonstrated that miRNAs can be exported or released by cells and circulate within the blood in a remarkably stable form. The discovery of circulating miRNAs opens up intriguing possibilities for the use of circulating miRNA patterns as biomarkers for obesity and cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the recent discoveries of the role played by miRNAs in the obese phenotype and associated comorbidities. Furthermore, we will discuss the role of exercise training on regulating miRNAs, indicating the mechanisms related to these alterations.

Estimated richness and environmental correlates of miniature fish assemblages in the rio Jacundá, Brazil

South America is home to more miniature fishes (<26 mm in standard length) than any other continent. Despite this diversity, the ecology of miniature fishes is poorly studied. To promote the study of miniature fish ecology, we investigated patterns in total richness, assemblage structure and environmental correlates for miniature fishes in the rio Jacundá drainage of the Lower Amazon River basin, Pará State. Based on multi-pass dip-netting of leaf litter at 20 locations distributed across two sites, we collected miniature species and used rarefaction to estimate 9 to 14 species might be present. The miniature fish assemblage at the upstream site was a nested subset of the downstream site, and water pH and canopy cover, two features known to be altered by deforestation, correlated most strongly with assemblage variation. Our work represents one of the first quantitative assessments of environmental correlates with miniature fish assemblages and highlights research topics that should be investigated further to promote conservation and preservation of the overlooked and understudied Amazonian diminutive freshwater fish fauna.(AU)

A América do Sul abriga o maior número de peixes miniaturas (<26 mm de comprimento padrão) do que qualquer outro continente. Apesar dessa diversidade, a ecologia dos peixes miniaturas é pouco estudada. Visando promover estudos de ecologia de peixes miniaturas, investigamos padrões de riqueza total, estrutura da assembleia e fatores ambientais correlacionados para peixes miniaturas no rio Jacundá, drenagem do baixo rio Amazonas, Pará. Com base em múltiplas passagens de redes no sedimento em 20 pontos distribuídos em dois locais, coletamos espécies miniaturas e usamos rarefação para estimar que 9 a 14 espécies podem estar presentes. A assembleia de peixes miniaturas no local à montante foi um subgrupo aninhado na assembleia no local à jusante, e pH da água e cobertura de copas, dois fatores sabidamente alterados por desmatamento, foram os mais correlacionados com a variação na assembleia. Nosso trabalho representa um dos primeiros estudos quantitativos de fatores ambientais correlacionados às assembleias de peixes miniaturas e ressalta um tópico de pesquisa que deveria ser melhor investigado para promover a conservação da pouco conhecida fauna de peixes diminutos da Amazônia.(AU)

Diversidad y estructura arbórea en afloramientos de carbonato de calcio en Calakmul, México / Tree diversity and structure in carbonate calcium banks in Calakmul, Mexico

Resumen Introducción: La vegetación arbórea de selvas que se desarrolla en ambientes kársticos dominados por carbonato de calcio enfrenta la restricción de agua y nutrientes, lo que condiciona su desarrollo. Objetivo: Analizar la composición, diversidad y estructura de la vegetación arbórea que se desarrolla en afloramientos de calcio (yesales) y sus condiciones edáficas comparándolas con las presentes en vegetación secundaria (VS). Métodos: Se emplearon 17 parcelas de 1 000 m², 14 en yesales y 3 en VS. Se obtuvo una muestra compuesta de suelo por parcela y estimamos pH, conductividad eléctrica (CE-salinidad), % de carbonatos de calcio (CaCO3), materia orgánica (MO), fósforo (P) y nitrógeno (N). La diferencia en la composición de especies se evaluó mediante un análisis de similitud (ANOSIM). Empleamos métodos de rarefacción y extrapolación, estimando la diversidad mediante los números de Hill (q = 0, q = 1 y q = 2). Se utilizó un análisis de regresión linear para evaluar la influencia de las características edáficas en la diversidad, el diámetro y la altura promedios. Resultados: Los suelos en yesales presentaron concentraciones bajas de MO, P y N, valores altos de CE-salinidad y altos porcentajes de CaCO3. Se registraron 6 443 individuos de 54 especies en yesales y 594 individuos de 62 especies en la VS, siendo la composición significativamente diferente. La diversidad, los valores promedio de altura y diámetro fueron menores en yesales respecto de VS, estas diferencias estuvieron relacionadas con las condiciones edáficas. Conclusiones: La vegetación arbórea en yesales tiene una composición semejante a la de selvas subperennifolias de Calakmul. Las tallas pequeñas de los árboles están relacionadas con el alto porcentaje de CaCO3 y los altos valores de CE que condicionan la disponibilidad de MO, N y P. Este estudio apoya la idea de que precarias condiciones edáficas tienen una influencia negativa en la diversidad y la estructura horizontal y vertical de la vegetación arbórea.

Abstract Introduction: Tree vegetation of forests that develops in karst environments dominated by calcium carbonate faces the restriction of water and nutrients, which negatively affects its development. Objective: Analyze the composition, diversity, and structure of tree vegetation that develops in calcium outcrops (yesales) and their edaphic conditions compared to those present in the adjacent secondary vegetation (VS). Methods: Plots of 1 000 m² were used, 14 in yesales and 3 in VS. For soil sampling, we obtained a sample composed of each plot, and estimate pH, electrical conductivity (EC-salinity), % of calcium carbonates (CaCO3), organic matter (OM), phosphorus (P) and nitrogen content (N). The difference in species composition was estimated by similarity analysis (ANOSIM). We used rarefaction and extrapolation methods to standardize sample, and estimate diversity by Hill numbers (q = 0, q = 1 and q = 2). Linear regression was used to determine the relative influence of edaphic characteristics in diversity, average diameter, and height. Results: Soils in yesales presented low concentrations of OM, P, and N, with high values of EC-salinity and high percentages of CaCO3. In yesales, 6 443 individuals were recorded in 54 species and in the secondary vegetation 594 individuals and 62 species, the species composition being significantly different between both conditions. Diversity, average values of height, and diameter were significantly lower in yesales regarding the secondary vegetation, these differences were significantly related to edaphic conditions. Conclusions: Tree vegetation in yesales has a composition like the sub-evergreen forests of Calakmul. Small sizes in the arboreal individuals are related to the high percentage of CaCO3 and the high EC values, which partly condition the low availability of OM, N and P affecting the growth of the trees. This study supports the idea that precarious edaphic conditions have a negative influence on the diversity and horizontal and vertical structure of tree vegetation.

Can Rubber Crop Systems Recover Termite Diversity in Previously Degraded Pastures in the Colombian Amazon Region?

Livestock production extension in Amazon has caused deforestation and soil degradation, with negative consequences on diversity and environmental services. Recently, rubber crops have been established in deteriorated soils of the Colombian Amazon as an option to restore hectares of unproductive degraded pastures. Bioindicator insects, such as termites, have been used to assess soil quality and fertility restoration. This study evaluated differences in termite abundance, species richness, and community composition in three different rubber crop systems as an indirect way of evaluating soil diversity restoring. Three rubber crop systems were sampled: clonal fields (rubber monocultures with different rubber clones), traditional commercial rubber plantations (rubber monocultures with just one rubber clone), and mixed plantations (rubber fields intercropped with copoazú fruit trees). Additionally, pastures in use for livestock production and natural forest relicts were compared to rubber crop systems, to serve as reference habitats. Termites were sampled using a 105-m transect method. Alpha diversity and beta diversity were estimated and compared between rubber crops and reference habitats. A total of 80 termite species belonging to two families were collected. Mixed plantations and pastures presented the lowest diversity rates. Species richness in rubber crop systems was 39% higher than that in pastures and included 72% of the termite species found in natural forests. Indicator species analysis associated soil-feeding termites with less diverse habitats and wood-feeding termites with high diverse habitats. Our results demonstrate that termite recovery will depend on the farming system selected and the agricultural practices implemented in the field, with some rubber crop systems, like commercial rubber plantations and clonal fields, recovering termite diversity better than others, such as mixed plantations.

Effects of urbanization and environmental heterogeneity on fish assemblages in small streams

The structure of freshwater assemblages may be driven directly by urbanization or indirectly by a reduction in environmental heterogeneity (EH). Disentangling the effects of urbanization and EH requires uncorrelated proxies of each of these factors. We assessed the effects of the degree of urbanization and EH on the structure of fish assemblages. We sampled fish in 45 streams located in the urban area of Cuiabá. We assessed the effects of urbanization and EH on rarefied fish species richness (Srarefied), the local contribution to beta diversity (LCBD), and composition with linear models and distance-based redundancy analysis. Our indexes of urbanization and EH were not correlated. We found that both Srarefied and the LCBD decreased with an increasing degree of urbanization, but were not associated with EH. We also noted that few native fish species abundances were associated with the EH. Serrapinnus microdon, S. calliurus, Hemigrammus tridens, and Astyanax lacustris were abundant in streams with a lower degree of urbanization. The non-native Poecilia reticulata was more abundant in streams with a higher degree of urbanization. Our results highlight that urbanization leads in negative impacts on fish assemblages, such as decreases in diversity and the dominance of non-native species.(AU)

A estrutura de assembleias de água doce pode ser influenciada diretamente pela urbanização ou indiretamente por reduções em heterogeneidade ambiental (HA). Para separar os efeitos da urbanização dos da HA, variáveis substitutas a esses processos precisam ser não-correlacionadas. Avaliamos os efeitos do grau de urbanização e HA na estrutura das assembleias de peixes. Amostramos peixes em 45 riachos localizados na área urbana de Cuiabá. Avaliamos os efeitos da urbanização e HA na riqueza rarefeita de espécies de peixes (Srarefeita), contribuição local para a diversidade beta (LCBD) e composição de espécies utilizando modelos lineares e análise de redundância baseada em distância. Nossos índices de urbanização e HA não foram correlacionados. Observamos que tanto a Srarefeita e a LCBD diminuíram com aumentos no grau de urbanização, mas não foram correlacionadas com a HA. Também observamos que as abundâncias de poucas espécies de peixes nativos correlacionaram-se com HA. Serrapinnus microdon, S. calliurus, Hemigrammus tridens e Astyanax lacustris foram mais abundantes em riachos com menor grau de urbanização. A não-nativa Poecilia reticulata foi mais abundante em riachos com maior grau de urbanização. Nossos resultados destacam que a urbanização resulta em impactos negativos nas assembleias de peixes, tais como reduções da diversidade e a dominância de espécies não-nativas.(AU)

Effects of urbanization and environmental heterogeneity on fish assemblages in small streams

The structure of freshwater assemblages may be driven directly by urbanization or indirectly by a reduction in environmental heterogeneity (EH). Disentangling the effects of urbanization and EH requires uncorrelated proxies of each of these factors. We assessed the effects of the degree of urbanization and EH on the structure of fish assemblages. We sampled fish in 45 streams located in the urban area of Cuiabá. We assessed the effects of urbanization and EH on rarefied fish species richness (Srarefied), the local contribution to beta diversity (LCBD), and composition with linear models and distance-based redundancy analysis. Our indexes of urbanization and EH were not correlated. We found that both Srarefied and the LCBD decreased with an increasing degree of urbanization, but were not associated with EH. We also noted that few native fish species abundances were associated with the EH. Serrapinnus microdon, S. calliurus, Hemigrammus tridens, and Astyanax lacustris were abundant in streams with a lower degree of urbanization. The non-native Poecilia reticulata was more abundant in streams with a higher degree of urbanization. Our results highlight that urbanization leads in negative impacts on fish assemblages, such as decreases in diversity and the dominance of non-native species.(AU)

A estrutura de assembleias de água doce pode ser influenciada diretamente pela urbanização ou indiretamente por reduções em heterogeneidade ambiental (HA). Para separar os efeitos da urbanização dos da HA, variáveis substitutas a esses processos precisam ser não-correlacionadas. Avaliamos os efeitos do grau de urbanização e HA na estrutura das assembleias de peixes. Amostramos peixes em 45 riachos localizados na área urbana de Cuiabá. Avaliamos os efeitos da urbanização e HA na riqueza rarefeita de espécies de peixes (Srarefeita), contribuição local para a diversidade beta (LCBD) e composição de espécies utilizando modelos lineares e análise de redundância baseada em distância. Nossos índices de urbanização e HA não foram correlacionados. Observamos que tanto a Srarefeita e a LCBD diminuíram com aumentos no grau de urbanização, mas não foram correlacionadas com a HA. Também observamos que as abundâncias de poucas espécies de peixes nativos correlacionaram-se com HA. Serrapinnus microdon, S. calliurus, Hemigrammus tridens e Astyanax lacustris foram mais abundantes em riachos com menor grau de urbanização. A não-nativa Poecilia reticulata foi mais abundante em riachos com maior grau de urbanização. Nossos resultados destacam que a urbanização resulta em impactos negativos nas assembleias de peixes, tais como reduções da diversidade e a dominância de espécies não-nativas.(AU)

Anuran diversity in urban and rural zones of the Itacoatiara municipality, central Amazonia, Brazil / Diversidade de anuros nas zonas urbana e rural de Itacoatiara, Amazônia central, Brasil

Few studies in the Amazon region have evaluated anuran diversity in urban forest fragments or in areas with differing degrees of anthropogenic impact. We determined the composition and abundance of the anurofauna in urban and rural sites within the municipality of Itacoatiara in central Amazonia, Brazil. Specimens were sampled from January 2012 to May 2013 in 10 urban sites and five rural sites. A total of 1,538 anurans (930 in rural sites and 608 in urban sites) were recorded, belonging to 29 species in five families. Species richness was higher in rural sites, with 10 exclusive species. All species found in urban sites were also found in rural sites, however, species abundance varied considerably between the habitats. Sampling- and individual-based rarefaction curves showed a tendency toward stabilization of species richness only in the urban sites. We concluded that the anuran assemblages in the urban sites are depauperate due to the absence of many species associated to pristine terra firme or várzea and igapó forests. Habitat loss and quality degradation in urban landscapes are the main factors threatening amphibian diversity. The anuran assemblages in our study areas were similar to those recorded in other Amazonian habitats. Conservation measures involving anurans in this region should consider the preservation of habitat mosaics, including both pristine terra firme, várzea and igapó forests.(AU)

Poucos estudos avaliaram a diversidade de anuros em fragmentos florestais urbanos ou em áreas com diferentes graus de impacto antrópico na Amazônia. Neste estudo foi determinada a composição e abundância de anuros em áreas urbanas e rurais no município de Itacoatiara, na Amazônia central, Brasil. Anuros foram amostrados entre janeiro de 2012 e maio de 2013 em 10 locais na área urbana e cinco na área rural. Um total de 1.538 indivíduos (930 na área rural e 608 na área urbana) foram registrados, compreendendo 29 espécies e cinco famílias. A área rural apresentou maior riqueza de espécies, com 10 espécies exclusivas. Todas as espécies identificadas na área urbana também foram encontradas na área rural, mas a abundância das espécies entre ambas áreas variou consideravelmente. Curvas de rarefação por amostragem e por número de indivíduos tenderam à estabilização na riqueza de espécies somente na área urbana. Concluímos que a comunidade de anuros na área urbana está empobrecida devido à ausência de muitas espécies associadas à ambientes inalterados de florestas de terra firme, várzea e igapó. A degradação da qualidade e a perda de habitat nas paisagens urbanas são os principais fatores que ameaçam a diversidade de anfíbios. A comunidade de anuros registrada neste estudo foi similar às de outros habitats na Amazônia. Medidas de conservação envolvendo anuros nesta região devem considerar a preservação de um mosaico de habitats que inclua áreas naturais de floresta de terra firme, várzea e igapó.(AU)

Anuran diversity in urban and rural zones of the Itacoatiara municipality, central Amazonia, Brazil / Diversidade de anuros nas zonas urbana e rural de Itacoatiara, Amazônia central, Brasil

Few studies in the Amazon region have evaluated anuran diversity in urban forest fragments or in areas with differing degrees of anthropogenic impact. We determined the composition and abundance of the anurofauna in urban and rural sites within the municipality of Itacoatiara in central Amazonia, Brazil. Specimens were sampled from January 2012 to May 2013 in 10 urban sites and five rural sites. A total of 1,538 anurans (930 in rural sites and 608 in urban sites) were recorded, belonging to 29 species in five families. Species richness was higher in rural sites, with 10 exclusive species. All species found in urban sites were also found in rural sites, however, species abundance varied considerably between the habitats. Sampling- and individual-based rarefaction curves showed a tendency toward stabilization of species richness only in the urban sites. We concluded that the anuran assemblages in the urban sites are depauperate due to the absence of many species associated to pristine terra firme or várzea and igapó forests. Habitat loss and quality degradation in urban landscapes are the main factors threatening amphibian diversity. The anuran assemblages in our study areas were similar to those recorded in other Amazonian habitats. Conservation measures involving anurans in this region should consider the preservation of habitat mosaics, including both pristine terra firme, várzea and igapó forests. (AU)

Poucos estudos avaliaram a diversidade de anuros em fragmentos florestais urbanos ou em áreas com diferentes graus de impacto antrópico na Amazônia. Neste estudo foi determinada a composição e abundância de anuros em áreas urbanas e rurais no município de Itacoatiara, na Amazônia central, Brasil. Anuros foram amostrados entre janeiro de 2012 e maio de 2013 em 10 locais na área urbana e cinco na área rural. Um total de 1.538 indivíduos (930 na área rural e 608 na área urbana) foram registrados, compreendendo 29 espécies e cinco famílias. A área rural apresentou maior riqueza de espécies, com 10 espécies exclusivas. Todas as espécies identificadas na área urbana também foram encontradas na área rural, mas a abundância das espécies entre ambas áreas variou consideravelmente. Curvas de rarefação por amostragem e por número de indivíduos tenderam à estabilização na riqueza de espécies somente na área urbana. Concluímos que a comunidade de anuros na área urbana está empobrecida devido à ausência de muitas espécies associadas à ambientes inalterados de florestas de terra firme, várzea e igapó. A degradação da qualidade e a perda de habitat nas paisagens urbanas são os principais fatores que ameaçam a diversidade de anfíbios. A comunidade de anuros registrada neste estudo foi similar às de outros habitats na Amazônia. Medidas de conservação envolvendo anuros nesta região devem considerar a preservação de um mosaico de habitats que inclua áreas naturais de floresta de terra firme, várzea e igapó.(AU)

Relación especie-área y distribución de la abundancia de especies en una comunidad vegetal de un inselberg tropical: efecto del tamaño de los parches / Species-area relation and species abundance distribution in a plant community on a tropical inselberg: effect of patch size

Resumen Aunque los inselbergs son afloramientos rocosos icónicos con un alto valor biogeográfico, poco se conoce sobre los mecanismos responsables de la estructuración de comunidades vegetales. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar cómo el tamaño de los parches de vegetación influye en la relación especie-área y distribución de la abundancia de especies de una comunidad en un inselberg del Monumento Natural "Piedra La Tortuga", región Guayana, Venezuela. Por este motivo, se establecieron tres preguntas de investigación: ¿Cuál es el efecto del tamaño de los parches sobre la riqueza de especies? ¿Qué tipo de modelo especie-área (SAR) presenta mejor ajuste en esos parches de vegetación? ¿Cómo es la distribución de las abundancias de las especies (SADs) es inducida por el tamaño de los parches? Se realizó un muestreo aleatorio estratificado en parches que oscilaron entre 0.34 y 14.8 m2, totalizando 40 unidades muestrales (226 m2). Todos los individuos encontrados en los 40 parches fueron identificados a nivel de especie. La composición florística en las diferentes muestras estuvo representada por 19 familias, 22 géneros y 24 especies, de las cuales 50 % son endémicas de inselbergs y dos están amenazadas de extinción. Se identificaron dos grupos de tamaños de parches (grandes 8-15 m2 y pequeños ≤ 7.9 m2) en relación a la abundancia y composición de especies, con diferencias significativas entre los grupos. Las curvas de acumulación de especies para cada grupo de tamaño de parche muestran una tendencia contrastante con marcadas diferencias en la riqueza observada entre los grupos de tamaños de parches. Las curvas de los modelos SADs tuvieron un ajuste significativo de la serie geométrica en las dos categorías de parches. El modelo SAR de la función potencia presentó los mejores ajustes especie-área, donde el aumento del área de los parches explicó un 82 % de la variación en el aumento del número de especies. Los resultados de este estudio demuestran por primera vez como el tamaño de los parches de vegetación de un inselberg tropical tiene una fuerte influencia sobre la riqueza, distribución de la abundancia y composición de especies. Así mismo, se determinó que el modelo geométrico SAD presentó el mejor ajuste en la comunidad en función del tamaño de los parches como un indicador de recursos, donde la abundancia de una especie puede ser equivalente a una proporción del espacio ocupado. También se presume que los cambios de tamaño de los parches, podría estar asociado con la disponibilidad de nutrientes y agua, como ha sido demostrado en otros ambientes de tierras secas. En algunos estudios se ha argumentado que la variación en la composición de especies entre los perfiles de vegetación de inselbergs tropicales está condicionada principalmente por la estructura del hábitat y el déficit hídrico. Sin embargo, no se había discutido cómo el tamaño de los parches de vegetación tiene un efecto en la riqueza. Los análisis SADs y SAR pueden proporcionar explicaciones complementarias sobre la estructuración de comunidades vegetales en inselbergs.

Abstract Although inselbergs are iconic rock outcrops with a high biogeographic value, little is known about drivers responsible for the plant community assembly. The aim of this research was to evaluate how the patch size distribution of vegetation influences the species-area relationship and species abundance distribution of a community in an inselberg of the "Piedra La Tortuga" Natural Monument of the Guayana region, Venezuela. In this context, three research questions were established: What is the effect of patch size on species richness? What species-area model (SAR) has the best fit in those vegetation patches? How is the distribution of species abundances (SADs) induced by the patch size distribution? A stratified random sampling was performed in patches ranging from 0.34 to 14.8 m2, totaling 40 sampling units (226 m2). All individuals found in the 40 patches were identified at species level. The floristic composition in the different samples was represented by 19 families, 22 genera and 24 species, of which 50 % are endemic to inselbergs and two, are threatened of extinction. Two groups of patch sizes were identified (large 8-15 m2 and small ≤ 7.9 m2) in relation to the abundance and composition of species. The species accumulation curves for each patch size group show a contrasting tendency with marked differences in the observed richness among patch size groups. The curves of the SADs models had a significant adjustment of the geometric series in the two categories of patches. The SAR model of the power function presented the best species-area adjustments, where the increase in patch area accounted for 82 % of the variation in the increase in the number of species. The results of this study demonstrate for the first time how vegetation patches of a tropical inselberg have a strong influence on richness, abundance distribution and species composition. Likewise, it was determined that the SAD geometric model presented the best fit in the community as a function of patch size as a resource indicator, where the abundance of a species can be equivalent to a proportion of the space occupied. It is also presumed that changes in patch sizes could be associated with nutrient and water availability, as has been demonstrated in other dryland environments. In some studies it has been argued that variation in species composition among vegetation profiles of tropical inselbergs is mainly conditioned by habitat structure and water deficit. However, it had not been discussed how the size of patches of vegetation has an effect on richness. SADs and SAR analyzes can provide complementary explanations on community assembly in inselbergs. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(2): 937-951. Epub 2018 June 01.

Acute simvastatin treatment restores cerebral functional capillary density and attenuates angiotensin II-induced microcirculatory changes in a model of primary hypertension.

OBJECTIVE: We investigated the acute effects of SIM on cerebral microvascular rarefaction and dysfunction in SHRs. METHODS: Male WKY and SHRs were divided into 4 groups of 8 animals each: WKY-CTL and SHR-CTL, treated with 0.9% saline; and WKY+SIM and SHR+SIM, treated with SIM (30 mg/kg/d) for 3 days by gavage. Cerebral FCD was assessed by intravital fluorescence videomicroscopy. mCBF before and after administration within the cranial window of angiotensin II (1 µmol L-1 ) was investigated using laser speckle contrast imaging. RESULTS: Cerebral FCD was reduced in SHR-CTL compared to WKY-CTL (P < .05). SIM increased cerebral FCD in SHRs compared to SHR-CTL (P < .05). The mCBF was reduced in SHR-CTL compared to WKY-CTL (P < .05), and SIM increased mCBF compared with SHR-CTL (P < .05). Angiotensin II elicited a reduction of mCBF in SHR-CTL and increased mCBF in WKY-CTL (SHR-CTL -13.53 ± 2% vs WKY-CTL +13.74 ± 4%; P < .001), which was attenuated in SHRs treated with SIM (SHR+SIM -6.7 ± 1% vs SHR-CTL -13.53 ± 2%; P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: The antihypertensive effect of SIM is associated with an improvement in cerebral microvascular perfusion and capillary density that may help to prevent hypertension-induced cerebrovascular damage independent of cholesterol-lowering.

Early Functional and Structural Microvascular Changes in Hypertension Related to Aging.

It is becoming increasingly clear that both microvascular network alterations and subsequent tissue perfusion defects may precede and predict the development of arterial hypertension and other cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, including diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Moreover, the subsequent functional and structural alterations in microvascular reactivity and density, as well as alterations in the macrocirculation characteristic of physiologic vascular aging, contribute to the development of target organ damage. Microvascular rarefaction appears to be an early vascular structural alteration in the setting of hypertension, as it is already present in individuals presenting with borderline hypertension and normotensive young adults with a familial predisposition to high blood pressure. The chronic increases in blood pressure that occur during senescence secondary to macrocirculatory changes induce vasoconstriction within the microcirculation, which promotes the development of tissue hypoxia and reduces both arteriolar and capillary density. This phenomenon contributes to additional increases in peripheral vascular resistance and establishes a vicious cycle that culminates in both tissue injury and target organ damage, which are equally present in senescence and hypertension. Therefore, the microcirculation may be considered an essential target for both the pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of arterial hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.

Central Sympathetic Modulation Reverses Microvascular Alterations in a Rat Model of High-Fat Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to investigate the role of the SNS on hemodynamic, metabolic, and microvascular alterations in a rat model of HFD-induced MS with salt supplementation. METHODS: In total, 40 adult male Wistar rats were fed normal chow (n = 10) or a HFD (n = 30) for 20 weeks. Thereafter, the HFD group received the centrally acting sympatho-modulatory drugs clonidine (0.1 mg/kg) or rilmenidine (1 mg/kg) or vehicle (n = 10/group) orally by gavage. FCD was evaluated using intravital video microscopy, and the SCD was evaluated using histochemical analysis. RESULTS: The pharmacological modulation of the SNS induced concomitant reductions in SBP, HR and plasma catecholamine levels. These effects were accompanied by a reversal of functional and structural capillary rarefaction in the skeletal muscle in both treated groups and an increase in SCD in the left ventricle only in the rilmenidine group. Improvement of the lipid profile and of glucose intolerance was also obtained only with rilmenidine treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Modulation of sympathetic overactivity results in the reversal of microvascular rarefaction in the skeletal muscle and left ventricle and improves metabolic parameters in an experimental model of MS in rats.

Cardiac microvascular rarefaction in hyperthyroid rats is reversed by losartan, diltiazem, and propranolol.

Cardiac microvascular rarefaction appears to be involved in hyperthyroidism-induced left ventricular hypertrophy and dysfunction. We investigated the effects of losartan, an AT1 receptor antagonist; diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker; and propranolol, a ß-adrenergic receptor antagonist, on cardiac function and structural microcirculatory cardiac alterations in an experimental model of l-thyroxin-induced hyperthyroidism in rats. Hyperthyroidism (HYPER) was induced by intraperitoneal injections of l-thyroxin for 35 days (600 µg/kg/day; n = 32). The euthyroid group was treated with distilled water (EUT + VEH; n = 8). On the 14th day, the HYPER group was divided into four groups that received an oral treatment for 21 days with saline (HYPER + VEH; n = 8), losartan (10 mg/kg/day; HYPER + LOS, n = 8), diltiazem (10 mg/kg/day; HYPER + DILT, n = 8), or propranolol (10 mg/kg/day; HYPER + PROP, n = 8). An echocardiographic study was performed at baseline, at the beginning and at the end of the pharmacological treatment protocol (35th day). The structural capillary density in the left ventricle (LV) was analyzed using histochemical analysis with fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated Griffonia simplicifolia lectin. HYPER + VEH (182 ± 5 mmHg; P < 0.001) presented higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared with EUT + VEH (132 ± 3 mmHg). HYPER + LOS (144 ± 2 mmHg), HYPER + DILT (147 ± 3 mmHg) and HYPER + PROP (153 ± 4 mmHg) presented lower SBP compared with HYPER + VEH (P < 0.001). Chronic treatment with losartan, diltiazem, and propranolol reversed cardiac structural microvascular rarefaction (HYPER + VEH 0.16 ± 0.01; EUT + VEH 0.35 ± 0.02; HYPER + LOS 0.46 ± 0.03; HYPER + DILT 0.49 ± 0.02; HYPER + PROP 0.58 ± 0.04 (Vv[cap]/Vv[fib]); P < 0.001) and enhanced the LV ejection fraction of hyperthyroid rats (HYPER + VEH 71 ± 3; EUT + VEH 85 ± 2; HYPER + LOS 90 ± 3; HYPER + DILT 85 ± 3; HYPER + PROP 86 ± 2%; P < 0.05). In conclusion, chronic treatment with losartan, diltiazem, and propranolol improved the cardiac microcirculation and function in an experimental model of hyperthyroidism in rats.

Dieta e estratégia alimentar de Characidium rachovii (Characiformes, Crenuchidae) em riachos de planície costeira do sul do Brasil / Diet and feeding strategy of Characidium rachovii (Characiformes, Crenuchidae) in coastal plain streams of southern Brazil

Characidium rachovii (Regan, 1913) is a frequent species in coastal plain streams on state of Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. However, its trophic niche is still unknown. This paper aimed to: (i) describe the diet of C. rachovii in three coastal plain streams of RS; (ii) evaluate the influence of an ecotone (sea-stream) in the diet by comparing two sites, one near and other distant of the sea, and (iii) evaluate the effect of individuals number analyzed on the richness of the diet. The stomach contents analysis of 139 individuals revealed that the species was a specialist in Diptera (aquatic stage) and Amphipoda. Characidium rachovii was also opportunist, since besides such preference, consumed great richness of resources (24 items) and various with low frequency and high abundance. There were no differences in diet composition among streams and sites. The expected richness (rarefaction) showed that the number of individuals analyzed changes the estimate of diet richness in species that consume several items at low frequency.(AU)

Characidium rachovii (Regan, 1913) é uma espécie frequente em riachos da planície costeira do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, sul do Brasil. Entretanto, seu nicho trófico é ainda desconhecido. O presente trabalho teve como objetivos: (i) descrever a dieta de C. rachovii de três riachos costeiros do RS; (ii) avaliar a influência de um ecótono (mar-riacho) na dieta, comparando dois locais, um próximo do mar e outro distante, e (iii) avaliar o efeito do número de indivíduos analisados na riqueza da dieta. A análise do conteúdo estomacal de 139 indivíduos revelou que a espécie é especializada no consumo de Diptera (estágio aquático) e Amphipoda. Ao mesmo tempo, pode-se considerar que C. rachovii apresentou hábito alimentar oportunista, já que, apesar de tal preferência, consumiu grande riqueza de recursos (24 itens), vários deles em baixa frequência e alta abundância. Não houve diferenças na composição da dieta entre os riachos e locais. A riqueza esperada (rarefação) mostrou que o número de indivíduos analisados altera a estimativa de riqueza da dieta em espécies que consomem itens raros.(AU)

Dieta e estratégia alimentar de Characidium rachovii (Characiformes, Crenuchidae) em riachos de planície costeira do sul do Brasil / Diet and feeding strategy of Characidium rachovii (Characiformes, Crenuchidae) in coastal plain streams of southern Brazil

Characidium rachovii (Regan, 1913) is a frequent species in coastal plain streams on state of Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. However, its trophic niche is still unknown. This paper aimed to: (i) describe the diet of C. rachovii in three coastal plain streams of RS; (ii) evaluate the influence of an ecotone (sea-stream) in the diet by comparing two sites, one near and other distant of the sea, and (iii) evaluate the effect of individuals number analyzed on the richness of the diet. The stomach contents analysis of 139 individuals revealed that the species was a specialist in Diptera (aquatic stage) and Amphipoda. Characidium rachovii was also opportunist, since besides such preference, consumed great richness of resources (24 items) and various with low frequency and high abundance. There were no differences in diet composition among streams and sites. The expected richness (rarefaction) showed that the number of individuals analyzed changes the estimate of diet richness in species that consume several items at low frequency.

Characidium rachovii (Regan, 1913) é uma espécie frequente em riachos da planície costeira do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, sul do Brasil. Entretanto, seu nicho trófico é ainda desconhecido. O presente trabalho teve como objetivos: (i) descrever a dieta de C. rachovii de três riachos costeiros do RS; (ii) avaliar a influência de um ecótono (mar-riacho) na dieta, comparando dois locais, um próximo do mar e outro distante, e (iii) avaliar o efeito do número de indivíduos analisados na riqueza da dieta. A análise do conteúdo estomacal de 139 indivíduos revelou que a espécie é especializada no consumo de Diptera (estágio aquático) e Amphipoda. Ao mesmo tempo, pode-se considerar que C. rachovii apresentou hábito alimentar oportunista, já que, apesar de tal preferência, consumiu grande riqueza de recursos (24 itens), vários deles em baixa frequência e alta abundância. Não houve diferenças na composição da dieta entre os riachos e locais. A riqueza esperada (rarefação) mostrou que o número de indivíduos analisados altera a estimativa de riqueza da dieta em espécies que consomem itens raros.

Antihypertensive treatment improves microvascular rarefaction and reactivity in low-risk hypertensive individuals.

OBJECTIVE: To test whether long-term antihypertensive treatment with metoprolol succinate (a ß1-adrenoceptor blocker) or olmesartan medoxomil (an angiotensin II AT1-receptor blocker) reverses microvascular dysfunction in hypertensive patients. METHODS: This study included 44 hypertensive outpatients and 20 age and sex-matched healthy controls. We used skin capillaroscopy to measure capillary density and recruitment at rest and during PORH. Endothelium-dependent vasodilation of skin microcirculation was evaluated with a LDPM system in combination with ACh iontophoresis, PORH, and LTH. RESULTS: Pretreatment capillary density in hypertensive patients was significantly reduced compared with controls (71.3 ± 1.5 vs. 80.6 ± 1.8 cap/mm²; p < 0.001), as was PORH (71.7 ± 1.5 vs. 79.5 ± 2.6 cap/mm²; p < 0.05). After treatment for six months, capillary density increased to 75.4 ± 1.1 cap/mm² (p < 0.01) at rest and 76.8 ± 1.1 cap/mm² during PORH. During LTH, CVC in perfusion units (PU)/mmHg was similar in patients (1.71 [1.31-2.12]) and controls (1.60 [1.12-1.91]) and increased significantly (1.82 [1.30-2.20]) after treatment. Maximal CVC during PORH was reduced in hypertensive patients (0.30 [0.22-0.39]) compared to controls (0.39 [0.31-0.49], p < 0.001) and increased (0.41 [0.29-0.51], p < 0.001) after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Capillary rarefaction and microvascular endothelial dysfunction in hypertensive patients responded favorably to long-term pharmacological treatment.

Anuran amphibians' diversity in a northwestern area of the Brazilian Pantanal / Diversidade de anfíbios anuros em uma área na porção noroeste do Pantanal brasileiro

In the Pantanal, the largest continuous floodplain in the world, the diversity and distribution of anuran amphibians vary in and across distinct subregions and distinct habitats occurring along inundation gradients. Permanent and natural aquatic habitats are relatively scarce in the Pantanal, and occurrence of temporary aquatic habitats varies seasonally, depending on rains. We here present results of evaluations of anuran's species richness and abundance in a seasonally flooded area in the northwestern section of the Pantanal (Fazenda Baía de Pedra, Cáceres municipality, state of Mato Grosso, Brazil), comparing values obtained in 10 plots systematically distributed over 5 km² with those obtained in additional aquatic plots in the study area. Data were obtained in five field trips, from February 2008 to March 2009. In addition to the plots, 36 water bodies (20 permanent and 16 temporary) were also sampled for the presence of anurans. In total, 3,983 individuals from 34 anuran species distributed in five families were recorded: Hylidae (14 species), Leptodactylidae (8), Leiuperidae (6), Microhylidae (4), and Bufonidae (2). Local richness represents 77.3% of the anuran diversity already recorded for the Brazilian Pantanal. The number of species recorded exclusively in systematically distributed terrestrial plots and in water bodies was 28 and 32, respectively. Sampling methods used at Fazenda Baía da Pedra were efficient in determining anuran richness, abundance, composition and distribution. Evaluations of anuran richness and abundance by using permanent sampling plots in the Pantanal may benefit from additional sampling sites, particularly permanent and temporary water bodies.

A distribuição e a diversidade das espécies de anfíbios anuros no Pantanal, maior planície inundável contínua do mundo, variam dentro e entre as distintas subregiões e os distintos hábitats ao longo do gradiente de inundação. Ambientes aquáticos naturais permanentes são relativamente escassos na planície e a presença de ambientes aquáticos temporários é sazonal, altamente dependente da precipitação. No presente trabalho, apresentamos informações sobre a riqueza e a abundância das espécies de anuros em uma localidade na porção noroeste do Pantanal (Fazenda Baía de Pedra, município de Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brasil) e comparamos os valores obtidos em dez parcelas sistematicamente distribuídas em 5 km² com parcelas aquáticas adicionais na presente área de estudo. Os dados foram obtidos em cinco campanhas, entre fevereiro de 2008 e março de 2009. Além das parcelas sistematicamente distribuídas, 36 corpos d'água (20 permanentes e 16 temporários) foram também amostrados quanto à presença de anuros. Registramos 3.983 indivíduos pertencentes a 34 espécies de anuros distribuídas em cinco famílias: Hylidae (14), Leptodactylidae (8), Leiuperidae (6), Microhylidae (4) e Bufonidae (2). A riqueza local em espécies representa 77,3 % da riqueza de anuros já registrada para o Pantanal brasileiro. A riqueza detectada exclusivamente nas parcelas foi 28 espécies, enquanto nos corpos d'água, 32. Os métodos de amostragem utilizados na Fazenda Baía de Pedra mostraram-se eficientes na determinação da riqueza, abundância, composição e distribuição das espécies de anuros. Estudos dessa natureza, envolvendo o uso de parcelas sistematicamente distribuídas em áreas do Pantanal, podem ser beneficiados pelo emprego de parcelas adicionais de amostragem constituídas por corpos d'água permanentes e temporários.

Incisive fossa case report / Fosa incisiva: reporte de un caso

The importance of the radiographic anatomy knowledge in the interpretation of the pathologies is undeniable. The base of this knowledge is a great familiarity with the anatomy of the region that is going to be evaluated. Thus, it is important to recognize what is considered normal, as well as the anatomical variations, so that one can identify what is pathologic. In this case report we describe a radiographic finding in leucoderm patient, 13 years old and one month, submitted to a panoramic radiography in a private clinic in São Paulo - Brazil, for evaluation of the third molars. During the radiographic reading, a bilateral radiolucid area with an inverted tear shape could be observed in the region between the roots of the lateral incisive teeth and upper canines. Although it was an image that suggested bone rarefaction, the integrity of the hard lamina was evident in both sides. During the patient's clinical examination, a bilateral asymmetry was not observed, as well as any kind of sintomatology. In our case report, according to the clinical and radiographic findings, we conclude that the diagnosis was bilateral incisive fossa.

La importancia de los conocimientos de anatomía radiográfica en la interpretación de las patologías es innegable. La base de este conocimiento es familiarizarse con la anatomía de la región que va a ser evaluada. Por tanto, es importante reconocer lo que se considera normal, así como las variaciones anatómicas y, de esta manera, identificar lo que es patológico. En este caso clínico, se describe un hallazgo radiológico en un paciente leucodérmico, de 13 años y un mes de edad, quien se realizó, para la evaluación de los terceros molares, una radiografía panorámica en una clínica privada en São Paulo - Brasil. Durante la lectura radiológica, se pudo observar en la región entre las raíces de los dientes incisivos laterales y caninos superiores una zona radiolúcida bilateral con una forma de lágrima invertida. Aunque era una imagen que sugería rarefacción ósea, la integridad de la lámina dura se hizo evidente en ambos lados. Durante la exploración clínica del paciente, no se observó una asimetría bilateral, así como cualquier tipo de sintomatología. En este caso, de acuerdo con los hallazgos clínicos y radiográficos, se concluye que el diagnóstico es la presencia de una fosa incisiva bilateral.

Biometria e alterações histopatológicas em testículos de catetos (Tayassu tajacu) criados em cativeiro no semi-árido nordestino, Brasil / Biometric and Histopatological alterations in testicules of collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu) created in captivity in the semi-arid Northeasterner, Brazil

O presente trabalho foi desenvolvido visando contribuir com informações a respeito de aspectos biométricos e patológicos em testículos de catetos (Tayassu tajacu). Utilizaram-se doze animais, com idades superior a dez anos, provenientes do Centro de Multiplicação de Animais Silvestres CEMAS/ESAM. Após a coleta, os testículos foram submetidos a biometria e em seguida fixados em solução de Bouin. Posteriormente, conservou-se a amostra em álcool a 70% e submeteu-se ao processamento histológico de rotina. A leitura das lâminas foi realizada em microscópio óptico e os resultados obtidos analisados estatisticamente através dos testes t e Z. Os valores médios de comprimento, circunferência e peso, entre o testículo direito e esquerdo, não revelam diferença estatística, ao se aplicar o teste t. Porém, o mesmo teste demonstrou correlação com significância a 1 % de probabilidade entre a gônada direita e esquerda, ao se comparar cada variável biométrica. Dos 12 animais utilizados, oito (67%) apresentaram alterações testiculares, as quais corresponderam a degeneração (63%), rarefação do epitélio (25%) e orquite (12%). Através do teste Z houve significância, a 2,5%, ao se compararem às freqüências entre degeneração e rarefação, assim como degeneração e orquite. Verificou-se que, à medida que uma das variáveis biométricas de um testículo apresenta modificação, há uma correspondência com o órgão contralateral. A patologia mais frequente foi à degeneração testicular, a qual demonstrou correlação.(AU)