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1.
Ann Bot ; 2024 Jun 25.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38916514

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Spatial variation in plant-pollinator interactions is a key driver of floral trait diversification. A so far overlooked qualitative aspect of this variation is the behavioural component on flowers that relates to the pollinator fit. We tested the hypothesis that variation in pollinator behaviour influences the geographical pattern of phenotypic selection across the distribution range of the oil-producing Krameria grandiflora (Krameriaceae). This variation mainly involves the presence or absence of flag petal grasping, which is only performed by representatives of Centris (Centridini, Apidae), an oil-collecting bee group highly associated with Krameriaceae pollination. METHODS: We quantified variation in floral traits and fitness and estimated pollinator-mediated selection in five populations at a large geographical scale comprising the entire species range. In each population, we sampled individual pollen arrival and germination as a fitness measure, indicating pollination success and pollination performance, which was then relativized and regressed on standardized flower-pollinator fit (flag-stigma distance), advertisement (sepal length) and reward (oil volume) traits. This generated mean-scaled selection gradients used to calculate geographical selection dispersion. KEY RESULTS: Unexpectedly, stronger selection was detected on the flower-pollinator fit trait in populations highly associated to the absence of the flag petal grasping. Geographical variation in selection was mainly attributed to differential selection on the flag-stigma distance generating a selection mosaic. This may involve influences of a spatial variation in pollinator behaviour as well as composition and morphology. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show the adaptive significance of the specialized "flag" petals of Krameria in the absence of the grasping behaviour and highlight the contribution of geographical variation in pollinator behaviour on flowers in driving selection mosaics, with implications for floral evolution, adaptation to pollinator fit and phenotypic diversity in specialized systems.

2.
J Plant Res ; 137(1): 65-77, 2024 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37991585

ABSTRACT

Several barriers contribute to reproductive isolation between plant species, which can be classified as pre- or post-pollination. Understanding the strength of these barriers could clarify the factors that maintain reproductive isolation and thus species integrity. In this study, we quantified reproductive isolation between two bat-pollinated co-occurring Bauhinia species (B. acuruana and B. pentandra) with similar flower morphology. Over the course of 18 months, we assessed reproductive isolation between these two Bauhinia species by quantifying the individual strengths and absolute contributions of five pre- and post- pollination barriers. Our data showed that both species are completely isolated in their reproduction by a combination of several barriers. Although they co-occur in a few populations, we found a high degree of geographic isolation between them. And although their flowering periods overlap, there is a significant difference in flowering peaks. Both species have the same pollinating bats, but the interspecific transfer of pollen between the plant species may be reduced due to the different length of the flower stamens, resulting in different pollen deposition on the bats' bodies. We have documented complete incompatibility between taxa and conclude that pre- and post-pollination barriers are important factors in preventing gene flow, even in contact zones between these two species of Bauhinia. We highlight that our work is the first study to use methods to estimate the strength of reproductive isolation barriers between bat-pollinated species.


Subject(s)
Bauhinia , Chiroptera , Fabaceae , Animals , Reproductive Isolation , Pollination , Flowers/anatomy & histology
3.
Nat Prod Res ; 38(10): 1771-1775, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37221813

ABSTRACT

Myrcia is a genus widespread in South America with many species presenting anti-inflammatory and biological properties. We investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of crude hydroalcoholic extract of Myrcia pubipetala leaves (CHE-MP) using macrophages (RAW 264.7), and the air pouch model in mice to evaluate leukocyte migration and mediator's release. Adhesion molecule expression, CD49 and CD18, was evaluated in neutrophils. In vitro, the CHE-MP significantly reduced nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) levels in the exudate and the supernatant culture. CHE-MP did not present cytotoxicity and modulated the percentage of positive neutrophils for CD18 and its expression per cell, without modifying the expression of CD49, which corroborated with significantly reduced neutrophil migration to inflammatory exudate and subcutaneous tissue. Taken together, the data demonstrate that CHE-MP presents a potential activity on innate inflammatory.


Subject(s)
Myrtaceae , Plant Extracts , Mice , Animals , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Inflammation/drug therapy , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism , Neutrophils
4.
Int Angiol ; 42(5): 371-381, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37870494

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In peripheral arterial disease (PAD) patients with intermittent claudication (IC), the combination of aerobic and resistance exercises could counteract muscle loss and attenuate disease progression. This study analyzed the effects of six months of a combined exercise program on walking ability, lower limb body composition, cardiovascular risk factors, and Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI). METHODS: Twenty-three patients (age 63.2±1.5 years and ABI 0.58±0.07) with PAD and IC were allocated to a control group (CG) or a supervised exercise group (SUP). Ten patients underwent six months of treadmill walking combined with resistance exercises, three times a week. The CG (N.=13) received a recommendation for walking. All patients were measured at baseline (M0), after three months (M3), and six months (M6). RESULTS: During constant treadmill protocol, the claudication onset time/distance (COT/COD), absolute claudication time/distance (ACT/ACD), and number of pauses of overall patients significantly improved at M3 and M6. Between groups were found significant differences in COT and COD at M6 (P=0.005 and P=0.007, respectively); and in ACT and ACD at M3 (P=0.003 for both) and at M6 (P=0.005 and P=0.005, respectively), with major improvements in the SUP. Over the six months, a significant group effect was found in fat-free mass (P=0.041) and predicted muscle mass (P=0.039) of the lower ABI leg, with greater improvements in the SUP. CONCLUSIONS: A supervised exercise program that combines aerobic and resistance training improves PAD symptoms and has additional benefits for patients. Patients in the program showed improvements in walking ability, lower-limb body composition, perceived exertion, and heart rate during treadmill walking.


Subject(s)
Peripheral Arterial Disease , Humans , Middle Aged , Pilot Projects , Peripheral Arterial Disease/diagnosis , Peripheral Arterial Disease/therapy , Intermittent Claudication/diagnosis , Intermittent Claudication/therapy , Intermittent Claudication/etiology , Exercise , Walking/physiology , Exercise Therapy/methods , Exercise Test/adverse effects
5.
An Acad Bras Cienc ; 95(suppl 1): e20220460, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37646712

ABSTRACT

Cereus jamacaru is a cactus distributed in Northeastern Brazil, with high symbolic value to this region. However, the interaction, behavior and the role of pollinators remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate the reproductive biology, addressing the ecological significance of floral attributes, including details about floral signaling. The study was carried at three areas of the Caatinga, in 2015, 2017 and 2021. We analyzed the floral morphometry, volume and concentration of the nectar, and characterized the colour and scent of flowers. Additionally, we described the pollinator behavior and performed controlled pollination experiments. The 'Mandacaru' is self-incompatible, has nocturnal anthesis and the nectar is accumulated as droplets in a long hypanthial tube. The flowers have a reflective pattern with a dark outer surface and a white inner surface. (E)-nerolidol is the major component (87.4%) of its floral perfume. We registered the sphingid moth Cocytius antaeus visiting the flowers. The floral attributes, attractants and rewards drives to a sphingophily, and the pollination treatments showed the dependence to fruit set by C. antaeus, the pollinator registered. In this case, if the apparent lack of pollinator diversity encompasses its entire range, the loss of the hawkmoth could severely impact the reproductive success of the cactus.


Subject(s)
Cactaceae , Brazil , Forests , Plant Nectar
7.
Molecules ; 28(3)2023 Jan 23.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36770816

ABSTRACT

Despite specialists' efforts to find the best solutions for cancer diagnosis and therapy, this pathology remains the biggest health threat in the world. Global statistics concerning deaths associated with cancer are alarming; therefore, it is necessary to intensify interdisciplinary research in order to identify efficient strategies for cancer diagnosis and therapy, by using new molecules with optimal therapeutic potential and minimal adverse effects. This review focuses on studies of porphyrin macrocycles with regard to their structural and spectral profiles relevant to their applicability in efficient cancer diagnosis and therapy. Furthermore, we present a critical overview of the main commercial formulations, followed by short descriptions of some strategies approached in the development of third-generation photosensitizers.


Subject(s)
Neoplasms , Photochemotherapy , Porphyrins , Humans , Precision Medicine , Porphyrins/chemistry , Photosensitizing Agents/therapeutic use , Photosensitizing Agents/chemistry , Neoplasms/diagnosis , Neoplasms/drug therapy
8.
PLoS One ; 18(2): e0281885, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36795732

ABSTRACT

The aim of this pilot study was to assess the effect of muscle contraction type on SmO2 during a dynamic contraction protocol (DYN) and a holding isometric contraction protocol (ISO) in the back squat exercise. Ten voluntary participants (age: 26.6 ± 5.0 years, height: 176.8 ± 8.0 cm, body mass: 76.7 ± 8.1 kg, and one-repetition maximum (1RM): 112.0 ± 33.1 kg) with back squat experience were recruited. The DYN consisted of 3 sets of 16 repetitions at 50% of 1RM (56.0 ± 17.4 kg), with a 120-second rest interval between sets and 2 seconds per movement cycle. The ISO consisted of 3 sets of 1 isometric contraction with the same weight and duration as the DYN (32 seconds). Through near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in the vastus lateralis (VL), soleus (SL), longissimus (LG), and semitendinosus (ST) muscles, the minimum SmO2 (SmO2 min), mean SmO2 (SmO2 avg), percent change from baseline (SmO2 Δdeoxy) and time to recovery 50% of baseline value (t SmO2 50%reoxy) were determined. No changes in SmO2 avg were found in the VL, LG, and ST muscles, however the SL muscle had lower values in DYN, in the 1st set (p = 0.002) and in the 2nd set (p = 0.044). In terms of SmO2 min and ΔSmO2 deoxy, only the SL muscle showed differences (p≤0.05) and lower values in the DYN compared to ISO regardless of the set. The t SmO2 50%reoxy was higher in the VL muscle after ISO, only in the 3rd set. These preliminary data suggested that varying the type of muscle contraction in back squat with the same load and exercise time resulted in a lower SmO2 min in the SL muscle in DYN, most likely because of a higher demand for specialized muscle activation, indicating a larger oxygen supply-consumption gap.


Subject(s)
Isometric Contraction , Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared , Humans , Young Adult , Adult , Pilot Projects , Muscle, Skeletal/physiology , Quadriceps Muscle , Oxygen
9.
Ann Bot ; 131(2): 361-372, 2023 03 08.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36579432

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Nectar standing crop has a fundamental role in controlling pollinator movements between flowers and individuals within a population. In bat pollination systems, plants take advantage of the cognitive abilities of nectarivorous bats, which integrate complex perceptions of the quality and spatial distribution of resources. Here, we propose that associations between standing crop and pollen transfer help to reveal the role of nectar as a manipulator of pollinator behaviour. METHODS: We used Harpochilus neesianus Ness (Acanthaceae), a bat-pollinated shrub from the Brazilian Caatinga, as a model system to assess nectar removal effects and standing crop, respectively, over the night and to test associations between the amount of nectar available to pollinators, and pollen import and export. KEY RESULTS: Harpochilus neesianus showed continuous nectar secretion throughout the flower lifespan. Flowers subjected to successive nectar removals produced less nectar than flowers sampled just once, and showed, despite a higher sugar concentration, a lower absolute amount of sugar. Under these conditions, bats may realize that nectar production is decreasing after repeated visits to the same flower and could be manipulated to avoid such already pollinated flowers with little nectar, thus increasing the probability of visits to flowers with a high amount of nectar, and a still high pollen availability on anthers and low pollen deposition on stigmas. We found that during most of the period of anthesis, nectar standing crop volume was positively correlated with the number of pollen grains remaining in the anthers, and negatively with the number of pollen grains deposited on the stigma. CONCLUSIONS: Nectar secretion patterns can function as a manipulator of pollinating bats in H. neesianus. We propose that the assessment of variability in nectar secretion in response to removal, and the correlation between nectar standing crop and relative pollen transfer throughout anthesis should be considered in order to understand the role of nectar in the manipulation of pollinators.


Subject(s)
Chiroptera , Plant Nectar , Animals , Chiroptera/physiology , Birds/physiology , Pollination/physiology , Flowers/physiology , Pollen/physiology , Sugars
10.
Ecology ; 104(1): e3852, 2023 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36053857

ABSTRACT

Advancing functional ecology depends fundamentally on the availability of data on reproductive traits, including those from tropical plants, which have been historically underrepresented in global trait databases. Although some valuable databases have been created recently, they are mainly restricted to temperate areas and vegetative traits such as leaf and wood traits. Here, we present Rock n' Seeds, a database of seed functional traits and germination experiments from Brazilian rock outcrop vegetation, recognized as outstanding centers of diversity and endemism. Data were compiled through a systematic literature search, resulting in 103 publications from which seed functional traits were extracted. The database includes information on 16 functional traits for 383 taxa from 148 genera, 50 families, and 25 orders. These 16 traits include two dispersal, six production, four morphological, two biophysical, and two germination traits-the major axes of the seed ecological spectrum. The database also provides raw data for 48 germination experiments, for a total of 10,187 records for 281 taxa. Germination experiments in the database assessed the effect of a wide range of abiotic and biotic factors on germination and different dormancy-breaking treatments. Notably, 8255 of these records include daily germination counts. This input will facilitate synthesizing germination data and using this database for a myriad of ecological questions. Given the variety of seed traits and the extensive germination information made available by this database, we expect it to be a valuable resource advancing comparative functional ecology and guiding seed-based restoration and biodiversity conservation in tropical megadiverse ecosystems. There are no copyright restrictions on the data; please cite this paper when using the current data in publications; also the authors would appreciate notification of how the data are used in publications.


O avanço da ecologia funcional depende fundamentalmente da disponibilidade de dados sobre traços reprodutivos, incluindo dados de plantas tropicais, que têm sido historicamente subrepresentados em bancos de dados de traços funcionais globais. Embora alguns bancos de dados valiosos tenham sido criados recentemente, eles são restritos principalmente a áreas temperadas e a traços vegetativos, como traços de folhas e madeira. Neste artigo apresentamos Rock n' Seeds, um banco de dados de traços funcionais de sementes e experimentos de germinação de vegetações associadas a afloramentos rochosos do Brasil, os quais são reconhecidos como centros notáveis de diversidade e endemismo. Os dados foram compilados através de uma revisão sistemática na literatura, resultando em 103 publicações das quais foram extraídos os traços funcionais das sementes. O banco de dados inclui informações de 16 traços funcionais para 383 taxa de 148 gêneros, 50 famílias e 25 ordens. Estes dezesseis traços incluem dois traços de dispersão, seis de produção, quatro morfológicos, dois biofísicos e dois germinativos; os eixos principais do espectro ecológico da semente. O banco de dados também fornece os dados brutos para 48 experimentos de germinação para um total de 10.187 registros para 281 taxa. Os experimentos de germinação no banco de dados avaliaram o efeito de uma ampla gama de fatores abióticos e bióticos sobre a germinação e diferentes tratamentos de quebra de dormência. Particularmente, 8.255 desses registros incluem a contagem diária da germinação. Estas informações facilitarão a síntese de dados de germinação e a utilização deste banco de dados para uma grande variedade de questões ecológicas. Dada a variedade de traços das sementes e as amplas informações sobre germinação disponibilizadas por este banco de dados, esperamos que ele seja um recurso valioso para o avanço da ecologia funcional comparativa e para orientar a restauração baseada em sementes e a conservação da biodiversidade em ecossistemas tropicais megadiversos. Não há restrições de direitos autorais sobre os dados; favor citar este artigo ao utilizar os dados nas publicações e os autores agradeceriam uma notificação de como os dados são utilizados nas publicações.


El avance de la ecología funcional depende fundamentalmente de la disponibilidad de datos sobre rasgos reproductivos-incluyendo los de las plantas tropicales-los cuales han estado poco representados en las bases de datos globales de rasgos. Aunque recientemente se han creado algunas bases de datos valiosas, estas se encuentran restringidas principalmente a las zonas templadas y a los rasgos vegetativos, como los de las hojas y la madera. En este artículo presentamos Rock n' Seeds, una base de datos de rasgos funcionales de semillas y experimentos de germinación de la vegetación asociada a afloramientos rocosos de Brasil, los cuales son destacados centros de diversidad y endemismo. Los datos se recopilaron mediante una búsqueda bibliográfica sistemática, que dio como resultado 103 publicaciones de las que se extrajeron los rasgos funcionales de las semillas. La base de datos incluye información de dieciséis rasgos funcionales para 383 taxones de 148 géneros, 50 familias y 25 órdenes. Estos rasgos incluyen dos rasgos de dispersión, seis de producción, cuatro morfológicos, dos biofísicos y dos de germinación; siendo estos los principales ejes del espectro ecológico de las semillas. La base de datos también proporciona los datos brutos de 48 experimentos de germinación, para un total de 10.187 registros de 281 taxones. Dichos experimentos de germinación evaluaron el efecto de una amplia gama de factores abióticos y bióticos sobre la germinación y de diferentes tratamientos para romper la dormancia. En particular, 8.255 de estos registros cuentan con conteos diarios de germinación. Esto facilitará la síntesis de los datos de germinación y el uso de esta base de datos para una gran diversidad de preguntas ecológicas. Dada la variedad de rasgos de las semillas y la amplia información sobre germinación que ofrece esta base de datos, esperamos que sea un recurso valioso para el avance de la ecología funcional comparativa y para orientar la restauración basada en semillas y la conservación de la biodiversidad en ecosistemas tropicales megadiversos. No hay restricciones de derechos de autor sobre los datos; se solicita citar este documento cuando se utilicen los datos en publicaciones y los autores agradecerán ser notificados sobre cómo se utilizan los datos en las publicaciones.


Subject(s)
Ecosystem , Germination , Humans , Brazil , Seeds , Plants
11.
Arch. pediatr. Urug ; 93(2): e309, dic. 2022. ilus, tab
Article in Spanish | LILACS, UY-BNMED, BNUY | ID: biblio-1383655

ABSTRACT

La malformación congénita de la vía aérea pulmonar (MVAP), antes llamada malformación adenomatoidea quística pulmonar, es una rara anormalidad del desarrollo de las vías respiratorias terminales. Las lesiones son de distribución y tamaños variables, usualmente unilaterales. El diagnóstico puede realizarse desde el período prenatal mediante ecografía gestacional, encontrándose, en ocasiones, graves repercusiones fetales. En los recién nacidos la enfermedad puede manifestarse con dificultad respiratoria aguda. En niños y adultos puede diagnosticarse ante infecciones pulmonares recurrentes u otras complicaciones. En pacientes sintomáticos está indicado el tratamiento quirúrgico para prevenir infecciones y la transformación neoplásica; sin embargo, sigue siendo controversial el tratamiento profiláctico frente al tratamiento expectante en pacientes asintomáticos. Se presenta el caso clínico de una lactante de 2 meses, que en el curso de una bronquiolitis se realizó una radiografía de tórax que evidenció una imagen radiolúcida del lóbulo medio. La tomografía computada visualizó gran imagen quística en pulmón derecho, que podría corresponder a una MVAP. Se decidió tratamiento quirúrgico coordinado. Se realizó una segmentectomía, confirmándose con anatomía patológica una MVAP tipo IV. Evolucionó favorablemente.


Congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM), formerly called pulmonary cystic adenomatoid malformation, is a rare developmental abnormality of the terminal airways. Lesions are of variable size and distribution, usually unilateral. The diagnosis can be made from the prenatal period by means of gestational ultrasound, occasionally causing serious fetal repercussions. In newborns, the disease may manifest itself through acute respiratory distress. In children and adults it can be diagnosed through recurrent lung infections or other complications. In symptomatic patients, surgical treatment is indicated to prevent infections and neoplastic transformation. However, prophylactic versus expectant management in asymptomatic patients remains controversial. We present the clinical case of a 2-month-old infant who, during the course of bronchiolitis underwent a chest X-ray that revealed a radiolucent image of the middle lobe. The computed tomography scan showed a large cystic image in the right lung, which could be linked to an CPAM. The surgical treatment was carried out and the segmentectomy confirmed a pathological type IV CPAM. The patient evolved favorably.


A malformação congênita das vias aéreas pulmonares (MVAP), anteriormente chamada de malformação adenomatoide cística pulmonar, é uma anormalidade rara do desenvolvimento das vias aéreas terminais. As lesões são de tamanho e distribuição variáveis, geralmente unilaterais. O diagnóstico pode ser feito desde o pré-natal por meio da ultrassonografia gestacional, podendo encontrar repercussões fetais graves. Em recém-nascidos, a doença pode se manifestar com dificuldade respiratória aguda. Em crianças e adultos, pode ser diagnosticada com infecções pulmonares recorrentes ou outras complicações. Em pacientes sintomáticos, o tratamento cirúrgico é indicado para prevenir infecções e transformações neoplásicas; no entanto, o tratamento profilático versus expectante em pacientes assintomáticos permanece controverso. Apresentamos o caso clínico de uma criança de 2 meses que foi submetida a radiografia de tórax durante bronquiolite, que revelou imagem radiotransparente do lobo médio. A tomografia computadorizada mostrou grande imagem cística em pulmão direito, que poderia corresponder a uma MVAP. O tratamento cirúrgico foi realizado e a segmentectomia confirmou um tipo IV de MVAP com patologia. A criança evoluiu favoravelmente.


Subject(s)
Humans , Female , Infant , Cystic Adenomatoid Malformation of Lung, Congenital/diagnostic imaging , Cystic Adenomatoid Malformation of Lung, Congenital/surgery , Cystic Adenomatoid Malformation of Lung, Congenital/pathology
12.
Gigascience ; 112022 05 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35639882

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Animal pollination is an important ecosystem function and service, ensuring both the integrity of natural systems and human well-being. Although many knowledge shortfalls remain, some high-quality data sets on biological interactions are now available. The development and adoption of standards for biodiversity data and metadata has promoted great advances in biological data sharing and aggregation, supporting large-scale studies and science-based public policies. However, these standards are currently not suitable to fully support interaction data sharing. RESULTS: Here we present a vocabulary of terms and a data model for sharing plant-pollinator interactions data based on the Darwin Core standard. The vocabulary introduces 48 new terms targeting several aspects of plant-pollinator interactions and can be used to capture information from different approaches and scales. Additionally, we provide solutions for data serialization using RDF, XML, and DwC-Archives and recommendations of existing controlled vocabularies for some of the terms. Our contribution supports open access to standardized data on plant-pollinator interactions. CONCLUSIONS: The adoption of the vocabulary would facilitate data sharing to support studies ranging from the spatial and temporal distribution of interactions to the taxonomic, phenological, functional, and phylogenetic aspects of plant-pollinator interactions. We expect to fill data and knowledge gaps, thus further enabling scientific research on the ecology and evolution of plant-pollinator communities, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, and the development of public policies. The proposed data model is flexible and can be adapted for sharing other types of interactions data by developing discipline-specific vocabularies of terms.


Subject(s)
Ecosystem , Pollination , Animals , Biodiversity , Phylogeny , Reference Standards
13.
Ann Bot ; 129(4): 473-484, 2022 03 23.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35039823

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Eriocaulaceae exhibit a great variety of floral traits associated with insect (e.g. nectariferous structures) and wind pollination (unisexual flowers, exposed sexual organs and small pollen grains), as well as the 'selfing syndrome' (small flowers, short distance between stigma and anthers, and temporal overlap of male and female phases). Paepalanthus bifidus, P. subtilis and P. tortilis are related species that differ in form, size and colour of floral structures. We aimed to investigate the pollination and reproductive biology of these three species. METHODS: We analysed the floral biology, floral visitors, pollinator behaviour, and the contribution of insects, wind and spontaneous geitonogamy to fruit set. We also evaluated the floral colour and scent of the species. Colour reflectance of capitula of each species was measured and plotted in models of insect vision. Floral scent samples were extracted and the compounds were compared to vegetative scent samples. KEY RESULTS: In all species, the staminate and pistillate flowers are arranged in alternating cycles with a temporal overlap between these phases. Ants were the most frequent floral visitors and were effective pollinators in P. bifidus and P. tortilis, while flies were occasional pollinators in P. tortilis. Floral visitors were not observed in P. subtilis. In all species, fruits were produced by spontaneous geitonogamy, with no evidence of wind pollination. According to the models of insect vision, the colours of the capitula of P. bifidus and P. subtilis are the most inconspicuous for ants and flies. We found no difference between the emission of volatiles of inflorescences and vegetative structures. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that ant pollination might be more widespread in Eriocaulaceae than currently assumed. Furthermore, for small monocarpic plants, mixed mating strategies are most favourable, by ensuring reproduction either by outcrossing when pollinators are abundant or by spontaneous geitonogamy when pollinations are scarce/absent.


Subject(s)
Ants , Eriocaulaceae , Animals , Flowers/chemistry , Insecta , Pollination , Reproduction
14.
Ecology ; 103(2): e03595, 2022 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34807455

ABSTRACT

Flowering plant species and their nectar-feeding vertebrates exemplify some of the most remarkable biotic interactions in the Neotropics. In the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, several species of birds (especially hummingbirds), bats, and non-flying mammals, as well as one lizard feed on nectar, often act as pollinators and contribute to seed output of flowering plants. We present a dataset containing information on flowering plants visited by nectar-feeding vertebrates and sampled at 166 localities in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. This dataset provides information on 1902 unique interactions among 515 species of flowering plants and 129 species of potential vertebrate pollinators and the patterns of species diversity across latitudes. All plant-vertebrate interactions compiled were recorded through direct observations of visits, and no inferences of pollinators based on floral syndromes were included. We also provide information on the most common plant traits used to understand the interactions between flowers and nectar-feeding vertebrates: plant growth form, corolla length, rate of nectar production per hour in bagged flowers, nectar concentration, flower color and shape, time of anthesis, presence or absence of perceptible fragrance by human, and flowering phenology as well as the plant's threat status by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classification. For the vertebrates, status of threat by IUCN classification, body mass, bill or rostrum size are provided. Information on the frequency of visits and pollen deposition on the vertebrate's body is provided from the original source when available. The highest number of unique interactions is recorded for birds (1771) followed by bats (110). For plants, Bromeliaceae contains the highest number of unique interactions (606), followed by Fabaceae (242) and Gesneriaceae (104). It is evident that there was geographical bias of the studies throughout the southeast of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and that most effort was directed to flower-hummingbird interactions. However, it reflects a worldwide tendency of more plants interacting with birds compared with other vertebrate species. The lack of similar protocols among studies to collect basic data limits the comparisons among areas and generalizations. Nevertheless, this dataset represents a notable effort to organize and highlight the importance of vertebrate pollinators in this hotspot of biodiversity on Earth and represents the data currently available. No copyright or proprietary restrictions are associated with the use of this data set. Please cite this data paper when the data are used in publications or scientific events.


Subject(s)
Plant Nectar , Pollination , Animals , Birds , Flowers , Forests , Humans , Mammals
15.
Diagnostics (Basel) ; 11(11)2021 Oct 31.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34829369

ABSTRACT

The identification of pathogens causing infectious diseases is still based on laborious and time-consuming techniques. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of novel methods and devices that can considerably reduce detection times, allowing the health professionals to administer the right treatment at the right time. Lateral flow-based systems provide fast, cheap and easy to use alternatives for diagnosis. Herein, we report on a lateral flow approach for specifically detecting S. aureus bacteria within 6 h.

16.
Int Arch Occup Environ Health ; 94(8): 1797-1807, 2021 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34355275

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The work in commercial restaurant kitchens is characterized by many labor´s demands and strict commands that can cause damage to the mental health of gastronomes. The aim of this study was to verify the presence of stress, anxiety, and depression among gastronomy workers and associate them with the presence of mobbing at work. Still, it sought to evaluate the work-family interference and test its mediating role in the relationship between mobbing and psychopathology indicators. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an observational-analytical, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, in which 160 gastronomes participated (59.4% women), with an average age of 30.81 years. All answered a Sociodemographic and Labor Data Questionnaire, Negative Acts at Work Questionnaire, Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale, and Work-Family Interaction Scale, whose data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS: A positive association was found between bullying and indicators of stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as negative interference between work-family and family-work with the same indicators. It was also observed the mediating effect of negative interference from work in family, in the relationship between mobbing and indicators of stress, anxiety, and depression. CONCLUSION: It was concluded, therefore, that the experience of mobbing affects the family and intensifies the psychological illness in gastronomes.


Subject(s)
Anxiety/epidemiology , Bullying , Depression/epidemiology , Family/psychology , Occupational Stress/epidemiology , Restaurants , Workplace/psychology , Adult , Brazil/epidemiology , Cross-Sectional Studies , Female , Humans , Male , Surveys and Questionnaires , Young Adult
17.
J Fluoresc ; 31(5): 1235-1239, 2021 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34283330

ABSTRACT

Intraoperative discrimination of thyroid and parathyroid tissues is fundamental in thyroid surgery. Recent fluorescence studies have shown stronger NIR emission in parathyroid tissue than in thyroid tissue, presenting a potential avenue for the development of a tool for surgical assistance. However, the fluorophore responsible for this emission has not yet been identified. In this work, spectroscopic analysis was performed to ascertain the origin of the emission peaks in parathyroid tissue. Ground-state diffuse reflectance (GSDR) absorption spectroscopy and laser-induced luminescence (LIL) emission spectroscopy were performed in parathyroid, thyroid, and fatty tissue samples and the resulting spectra were compared with the peaks of known fluorophores to identify the origin of each peak. The spectra of the different tissue types were also compared in order to evaluate the wavelength which presents the highest parathyroid emission relative to the emission of the surrounding tissues, representing the ideal wavelength for parathyroid detection. An emission peak in these conditions was observed for both thyroid and parathyroid tissue at 711 nm, with a higher intensity in parathyroid sample, making it suitable for detection applications. These results show a potential avenue for the development of a system allowing parathyroid detection in a surgical setting.


Subject(s)
Parathyroid Glands , Thyroid Gland , Fluorescence , Lasers
18.
J Hum Kinet ; 77: 61-70, 2021 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34168692

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of using inverse sequences of combined bench-step aerobics and resistance exercise on cardiorespiratory, hemodynamic and perceptual variables during exercise and one-hour post-exercise. The tested sequences were bench-step aerobics immediately before and immediately after resistance exercise. Thirteen apparently healthy and physically active women (age = 21.9 ± 6.1 years, body height = 160 ± 0.1 cm, body mass = 58.8 ± 7.5 kg, estimated fat mass = 17.2 ± 2.0% and estimated maximal oxygen uptake = 37.5 ± 2.6 mL∙kg-1∙min-1) performed a 20-minute bench-step aerobics routine, immediately before (STEP_RES) and after (RES_STEP) resistance exercise. Oxygen uptake and heart rate were continuously measured, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, body temperature and perceived exertion were measured at rest, immediately after each type of exercise and at 15, 30, 45 and 60 min after exercise. When resistance exercise was performed first (RES_STEP), oxygen uptake was higher (23.2 ± 3.9 vs. 20.5 ± 4.8 mL∙kg-1∙min-1), but the heart rate (164.5 ± 9.1 vs. 173.9 ± 11.7 bpm) and body temperature (36.5 ± 0.4 vs. 37.6 ± 0.6 ºC) were lower. In both sequences, the type of exercise performed first was pointed out with a lower perceived exertion or lower perceived intensity. Exercise and 60-min post-exercise blood pressure had a similar response in both sequences, and systolic blood pressure along with diastolic blood pressure were lower than pre-exercise from 30 min until 60 min post-exercise. The results suggest that the sequence affected oxygen uptake and perceived exertion during exercise and that this total workload, despite the sequence, promoted a post-exercise blood pressure decrease in normotensive participants.

19.
Rev. SPAGESP ; 22(1): 160-174, ene.-jun. 2021.
Article in Portuguese | Index Psychology - journals, LILACS | ID: biblio-1155521

ABSTRACT

Há crescente interesse sobre o comportamento abusivo sofrido por trabalhadores nas cozinhas de restaurantes comerciais, uma vez que agressões físicas e verbais parecem ser comuns neste contexto laboral. Este estudo objetivou identificar a prevalência do assédio moral e descrever as características das situações em que ele ocorre entre trabalhadores da gastronomia. Participaram do estudo 160 indivíduos com graduação em gastronomia, sendo que 95 eram do sexo feminino (59,4%), com idade média de 30,81 anos (DP = 8,34). Os mesmos responderam ao Questionário Biossociodemográfico e Laboral e ao Questionário de Atos Negativos, cujos dados foram analisados descritivamente. Os resultados indicaram elevados índices de prevalência de assédio moral (63,1%) e de violência psicológica (33,8%), que alertam sobre a importância de divulgar informações sobre o assédio moral e seus prejuízos, visando a uma maneira mais saudável de gerenciar e trabalhar na cozinha.


Great interest in abusive behavior suffered by workers in commercial restaurant kitchens was observed. In this work context, verbal and physical aggression seems to be common. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of moral harassment and describe the characteristics of the situations in which it occurs among gastronomy workers. Participants were 160 individuals undergraduate in gastronomy and 95 were female (59.4%), that have an average age of 30.81 years (SD = 8.34). The participants answered the Biosociodemographic and Labor Questionnaire and the Negative Acts Questionnaire, whose data were analyzed descriptively. The results indicated high prevalence rates of moral harassment (63.1%) and psychological violence (33.8%), which warn the importance of disclosing information about bullying and its harms, aiming at a healthier way to manage and work in the kitchen.


Una creciente preocupación por el comportamiento abusivo que sufren los trabajadores en las cocinas de restaurantes comerciales ha sido observada. Esta agresión puede ser verbal o física y parece ser común en este contexto laboral. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo identificar la prevalencia del bullying y describir las características de las situaciones en las que ocurre entre los trabajadores de la gastronomía. Los participantes fueron 160 individuos con un título en gastronomía, de los cuales 95 eran mujeres (59.4%), con una edad promedio de 30.81 años (DE = 8.34). Los participantes respondieron el Cuestionario Biosociodemográfico y Laboral y el Cuestionario de Actos Negativos, cuyos datos fueron analizados descriptivamente. Los resultados indicaron altas tasas de prevalencia de acoso moral (63.1%) y violencia psicológica (33.8%), que advierten sobre la importancia de divulgar información sobre el acoso y sus daños, con el objetivo de una forma más saludable de manejar y trabajar en la cocina.


Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Female , Adult , Middle Aged , Restaurants , Work , Surveys and Questionnaires , Cooking , Aggression , Bullying , Workplace Violence , Occupational Groups
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