Influence of nasal septum deviation on fluctuating asymmetries of the nasomaxillary complex: A cross-sectional study.

An important parameter in diagnostic analysis and treatment planning of different biological areas is facial symmetry, and several etiological factors have been attributed to skeletal facial asymmetry. Although causality cannot be determined, previous studies have reported a relationship between the anatomical deviation of the nasal septum and facial development. Diagnosis is critical for patients in growth stages due to the association between nasal septum deviation (NSD) and abnormal growth of the nasomaxillary complex. To understand this relationship, this study aimed to investigate the influence of nasal septum deviation on fluctuating asymmetries (FA) of the nasomaxillary complex at different stages of skeletal maturation. Another goal was to determine whether an association exists between the degrees of septal deviation severity and asymmetry of the nasomaxillary complex. This was a retrospective, cross-sectional observational study comprising 60 selected cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans that were divided into four groups (n = 15) according to the degree of septal deviation and skeletal maturation: mild deviation (MD; <10°), moderate to severe deviation (MSD; ≥10°), early group (EG), and late group (LG). The angle and area of deviation were measured for the greatest NSD, and a geometric morphometric approach was used to evaluate the nasal septum (NS) shape. The morphology of the nasomaxillary complex and the presence of fluctuating asymmetries were evaluated using 23 two-dimensional landmarks on the nasomaxillary complex (nasal, lateral, and palatal regions) with Procrustes ANOVA and Mann-Whitney test. Additionally, Spearman's correlation and multivariate regression were used to correlate the NSD with asymmetries in these regions. No significant differences were observed in the Procrustes FA scores of the nasomaxillary complex between the MD-EG × MSD-EG and MD-LG × MSD-LG (p > 0.05). However, the results of the multivariate regression revealed more specific aspects of asymmetry (asymmetry component), there was a positive correlation between the NSD angle and the palatal regions (p = 0.035 and p = 0.047, middle and posterior, respectively), and the nasal septum shape and anterior palatal regions (p = 0.039). The nasal and lateral regions did not correlate with the NSD angle in the multivariate regression analysis (p > 0.05). The results of this study indicate that there were no significant differences in the fluctuating asymmetry of the nasomaxillary complex between the mild and moderate to severe nasal septum deviation groups, in both early and late skeletal maturation stages. However, a positive correlation was observed in the degree of nasal septum deviation angle and asymmetry components of the middle and posterior palatal regions, likewise between the nasal septum shape and asymmetry components of the anterior palatal region. The diagnosis of nasal septum deviation by both physicians and dentists is important, as a relationship was observed with fluctuating asymmetry component of the palatal region. This information can guide the decision of the treatment planning for these individuals, and should be considered, especially in cases of severe septum deviation, due to the great anatomical proximity of these structures.

Chemical Profile of Elements in the Stingless Bee Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides (Hymenoptera: Apidae).

Bees represent efficient bioindicators of environmental contamination, including elements that can accumulate in both biomes and bee-derived products. Therefore, the goal of this study was to evaluate the presence of metallic elements over the body surface of Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides workers from rural and urban areas from Caatinga in Brazil. Using SEM/XEDS (scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) identified magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), molybdenum (Mo), cadmium (Cd), barium (Ba), and lead (Pb) in the corbiculae of bees. The areas had similar profiles, but As was characterized as a "trace element" in the agricultural area and "minor element" in the urban area. The presence of toxic elements such as As, Cd, and Pb indicates that both areas may be contaminated, revealing the importance of metallic elements microanalysis in native bee species for environmental biomonitoring.

Differentiation of face and auricular shape resulting from diabetes and hypertension in the elderly

The prevalence global of noncommunicable chronic diseases as diabetes and hypertension worldwide has been disregarded until recently by policy makers. In addition, these diseases have growing with the aging of the population. This study sought to identify changes in face shape from the frontal and side views in elderly people diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension. 205 individuals were studied, with 60 years or more, from both sexes, with different ethnicities, and cognition intact. With a digital camera, photos were taken of the front and side and based on these images landmarks for measurement were determined. For statistical analysis, ANOVA, Canonical Variates Analysis, Mahalanobis distance and Thin-Plate Spline were realized. Given sexual dimorphism, the sexes were analyzed separately. From the ANOVA, significant differences (p<0.01) for individuals with diabetes, hypertension, and patients with both or neither of the diseases were observed. The groups were separated by the Canonical Variates and Mahalanobis distance and independent of edentulism, sex or ethnicity. A morphofacial characteristics for the front and side views (especially in the ear region) that identified individuals with these chronic diseases was observed. This methodology can contribute in a specific manner to the identification of at risk populations and help to promote preventative measures for these conditions.

Craniofacial geometric morphometrics in the identification of patients with sickle cell anemia and sickle cell trait

ABSTRACT Objective: The aims of this study were to identify the main characteristics regarding the shape and size of the craniofacial region in patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA) and sickle cell trait (SCT) and in unaffected patients using geometric morphometrics and to check the efficiency of this method. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study of 45 patients (15 in each group) was performed. Lateral radiographs of the skull were used for the analysis. Seventeen landmarks and semilandmarks were placed for the measurements. The Pocrustes analysis of variance (ANOVA), regression analysis, multivariate analysis of variance, canonical variate analysis, Mahalanobis and Procrustes distances and unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) clustering were performed. Allometric effects and sex characteristics were not statistically significant (p> 0.05). Results: There were, however, significant differences (p< 0.05) in craniofacial shape among SCA, SCT and unaffected individuals. Those with SCA showed variations in the shape of the external auditory meatus and at the base of the occipital bone, in addition to the mandibular setback and upper incisor inclination, with a tendency towards prognathism. The individuals with SCT exhibited a similar craniofacial shape to those with SCA, but with slighter variations. Moreover, those with SCT were statistically closer in resemblance to unaffected individuals, given that SCT is not regarded as a disease. Conclusion: This demonstrates the efficiency of geometric morphometrics in the categorization of the assessed groups.

Craniofacial geometric morphometrics in the identification of patients with sickle cell anemia and sickle cell trait.

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to identify the main characteristics regarding the shape and size of the craniofacial region in patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA) and sickle cell trait (SCT) and in unaffected patients using geometric morphometrics and to check the efficiency of this method. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional analytical study of 45 patients (15 in each group) was performed. Lateral radiographs of the skull were used for the analysis. Seventeen landmarks and semilandmarks were placed for the measurements. The Pocrustes analysis of variance (ANOVA), regression analysis, multivariate analysis of variance, canonical variate analysis, Mahalanobis and Procrustes distances and unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) clustering were performed. Allometric effects and sex characteristics were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). RESULTS: There were, however, significant differences (p < 0.05) in craniofacial shape among SCA, SCT and unaffected individuals. Those with SCA showed variations in the shape of the external auditory meatus and at the base of the occipital bone, in addition to the mandibular setback and upper incisor inclination, with a tendency towards prognathism. The individuals with SCT exhibited a similar craniofacial shape to those with SCA, but with slighter variations. Moreover, those with SCT were statistically closer in resemblance to unaffected individuals, given that SCT is not regarded as a disease. CONCLUSION: This demonstrates the efficiency of geometric morphometrics in the categorization of the assessed groups.

Metabolic syndrome components and face shape variation in elderly / Componentes da síndrome metabólica e variação na forma da face em idosos

Abstract The aim of this study was to identify the metabolic syndrome (MS) components mostly influencing face shape in elderly individuals. This is a cross-sectional epidemiological study carried out with elderly individuals living in Aiquara County, Bahia State. Facial images at frontal view and MS were classified according to the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III (revised version). Discriminant function, cross validation and distance Mahalanobis D2 were used to extract face shape variations due to MS. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to evaluate MS components' influence on face shape. The total of 193 elderly individuals were selected; there were significant differences in face shape due to MS (p <0.01) in both sexes. PCA 1 showed HDL-C in men, which accounted for 37% of the total variation. HDL-C in biplot is associated with individuals who do not have MS and with elderly individuals with MS - there was correlation between waist circumference and triglycerides. PCA 1 represented 33.2% of the total variation in women; this outcome is explained by triglycerides. There was association between blood glucose and waist circumference in biplot. HDL-C is related to women who do not have MS. Facial variations affected by MS did not derive from the action of any of the MS components, but from the association between them. Thus, geometric morphometrics emerges as a promising method that makes it possible identifying heart disease and metabolic risk factors according to face shape features.

Resumo Objetivou-se identificar dentre os componentes da síndrome metabólica (SM) o que mais interfere na forma da face em idosos. Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico, transversal, realizado com idosos residentes de Aiquara-BA. Foram obtidas imagens faciais da vista frontal e a SM foi classificada segundo o National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment PanelIII, revisado. A partir da função discriminante, validação cruzada e a distância D2 Mahalanobis, foram extraídas as variações da forma em função da SM. Para avaliar a influência dos componentes da SM na forma da face, utilizou-se a Análise de Componentes Principais (ACP). Participaram 193 idosos e foram identificadas diferenças significativas na forma da face em relação a SM (p<0,01) em ambos os sexos. Para os homens, o ACP 1 foi o HDL-C, este explicou 37% da variação total. Pelo biplot, o HDL-C está associado aos indivíduos que não possuem SM e em idosos com SM, houve uma correlação entre a circunferência da cintura e os triglicerídeos. Para as mulheres, o ACP 1 representou 33,2% da variação total, explicado pelos triglicerídeos. Pelobiplot, houve uma relação entre glicose e circunferência da cintura. Nas mulheres, o HDL-C está relacionado com quem não tem SM. As variações faciais acometidas pela SM, não foram decorrentes da ação de um dos componentes da mesma, mas das relações entre eles. Assim, a morfometria geométrica se mostra como método promissor e possibilita identificar a partir da forma da face fatores de risco cardiovascular e metabólico.

Factors Associated with Malocclusion in Preschool Children in a Brazilian Small Town

Abstract Objective: To analyze the prevalence and factors associated with malocclusions in preschool children. Material and Methods: A census, epidemiological study, with a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytic sample, was carried out with children aged between 4 and 6 years, matriculated in preschools in the town of Aiquara, Bahia, Brazil. Malocclusion in the deciduous dentition was determined through the application of the index proposed by WHO, with the Foster and Hamilton criteria also being incorporated. The data was tabulated in duplicate in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and following correction, was analyzed using the SPSS, STATA and PAST Software. In order to identify the associated factors, we opted for Multiple Poisson regression analysis and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Results: A total of 148 children were examined and the general prevalence of malocclusions was 69.59%, with 57.5% in the group of 4-year-old, 76.92% those aged 5 years old and 72.46% among children aged 6 years old. In terms of primary canines, 66.2% were identified as class I, 25.7% as class II and 8.1% as class III. Normal overjet was 41.2%, increased overjet 34.5%, edge to edge bite 17.6% and anterior crossbite 6.8%. The normal overbite 51.4%, reduced 20.9% and deep 8.1%. Of the individuals, 20.9% had posterior crossbite. In the Poisson regression analysis and PCA, a statistical association between the malocclusions and dental caries, duration of use of pacifiers, onychophagia and thumb sucking, was identified. Conclusion: The prevalence of malocclusion in preschool children in the small town of Aiquara is high and the associated factors identified are capable of control and prevention.

Leaf geometric morphometrics among populations of Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L. ) Taub / Morfometria geométrica foliar entre populações de Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub. do Brasil

Leaves are plant structures that express important traits of the environment where they live. Leaf description has allowed identification of plant species as well as investigation of abiotic factors effects on their development, such as gases, light, temperature, and herbivory. This study described populations of Dalbergia ecastaphyllum through leaf geometric morphometrics in Brazil. We evaluated 200 leaves from four populations. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the first four principal components were responsible for 97.81% of variation. The non-parametric multivariate analysis of variance (NPMANOVA) indicated significant difference between samples (p = 0.0001). The Mentel test showed no correlation between geographical distances and shape. The canonical variate analysis (CVA) indicated that the first two variables were responsible for 96.77 % of total variation, while the cross-validation test showed an average of 83.33%. D. ecastaphyllum leaves are elliptical and ovate.

As folhas são estruturas presentes nas plantas que expressam importantes características de acordo com o ambiente no qual estão inseridas. Ao longo dos anos, a sua caracterização tem permitido identificar espécies vegetais e correlacionar o efeito de fatores abióticos como gases, luz, temperatura e herbivoria sob o seu desenvolvimento. O presente estudo teve como descrever populações de Dalbergia ecastaphyllum do Brasil utilizando a morfometria geométrica foliar. Foram avaliadas 200 folhas de quatro populações desta espécie. Análise de componentes principais (ACP) mostrou que os quatro primeiros componentes principais explicaram 97,81% da variação. A Análise de variância multivariada com teste não-paramétrico (NPMANOVA) indicou não haver diferença entres as amostras (p= 0,0001). Os resultados do teste de Mentel mostraram que não houve correlação das distâncias geográficas com a forma. Na análise de variação canônica, as duas primeiras variáveis responderam por 96,77 % da variação total, enquanto uma média de 83,33% foi encontrada pelo teste de validação cruzada. As folhas de D. ecastaphullym são elípticas e ovadas.

Cárie dentária e fatores associados em pré-escolares em município de pequeno porte / Dental caries and associated factors in preschoolers in a small city

Objetivo: este estudo objetivou conhecer a prevalência e fatores associados à doença cárie dentária em pré-escolares. Material e método: trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico, censitário de corte transversal e analítico, realizado com crianças com idade de 4 a 6 anos, matriculados nas escolas municipais de educação infantil no município de Aiquara-BA. Os dados sociodemográficos foram obtidos por entrevista domiciliar com os pais/responsáveis pelas crianças e os da condição dental por exame clínico da cavidade bucal dos pré-escolares. O índice ceo-d foi utilizado para a avaliar a condição dental das crianças, sendo os códigos e critérios empregados os propostos pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS). Os dados foram tabulados em duplicata em uma planilha do Microsoft Excel e após as correções, foram analisados no programa SPSS, STATA e PAST. Optou-se pela análise de Regressão de Poisson (RP) múltipla e Análise dos Componentes Principais (ACP). Resultados: foram avaliadas 148 crianças das quais 79 (53,4%) são do sexo masculino e 40 (27%), 39 (26,4%) e 69 (46,6%) com idade de 4, 5 e 6 anos respectivamente. A prevalência da doença cárie em crianças com idade de 4 anos, 5 anos e 6 anos foi 60%, 64% e 70%, sendo no sexo masculino de 70% e no feminino de 61%. Conclusão: os fatores associados a presença de cárie na dentição decídua foram a situação conjugal materna, baixa escolaridade dos pais, baixo peso ao nascer e oclusopatias. Em pré-escolares de Aiquara-BA a prevalência da doença cárie é elevada evidenciando-se a necessidade de ações educativas, preventivas e curativas mais efetivas na atenção à saúde bucal

Objective: this study seeks to understand the predominance and factors associated with dental caries in preschoolers. Material and Methods: it is a census, epidemiological study with an analytic and cross-sectional sample, including children from 4 to 6 years old, matriculated in public preschools in the city of Aiquara-BA. The sociodemographic data was obtained through home interviews with the parents/guardian of the child, while the dental condition data was obtained via a clinical examination of the mouth cavity of the preschoolers. The dfmt index was used to evaluate the dental condition of the children, with the codes and criteria used being those proposed by the World Health Organization. The data was tabulated in duplicate on a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and following correction, was analyzed using the SPSS, STATA and PAST programs. Poisson regression analysis and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were performed. Results: 148 children were evaluated of whom 79 (53.4%) were boys and 40 (27%), 39 (26.4%) and 69 (46.6%) were 4, 5, and 6 years old, respectively. The prevalence of dental caries disease in children of 4, 5 and 6 years old was 60, 64 and 70%, with a prevalence of 70% in boys and 61% in girls. Conclusion: associated factors were maternal marital status, low education level of parents, low birth weight and occlusions issues. In preschools in Aiquara-BA, the prevalence of dental caries disease is elevated, showing the need for more effective educational, preventive and curative measures in relation to mouth hygiene

Saúde bucal de usuários de drogas institucionalizados / Salud bucal de usuarios de drogas institucionalizados / Oral health of drugs users institutionalized

Resumo O uso de drogas traz diversos malefícios para a saúde bucal, aumentando a prevalência das doenças cárie dentária e periodontal, representando um sério problema de saúde pública. Este estudo objetivou avaliar a prevalência das doenças cárie dentária e periodontal em usuários de drogas institucionalizados. Estudo epidemiológico, transversal, censitário e analítico realizado com usuários de drogas institucionalizados no período de agosto de 2016 a junho de 2017. Examinadores padronizados aplicaram um formulário para coleta de dados sociodemográficos e consumo de drogas. A cárie dentária foi avaliada através do índice CPO-D e a doença periodontal através dos indicadores clínicos: sangramento à sondagem, índice de placa, índice gengival, profundidade de sondagem e nível de inserção clínica. Foram avaliados 112 indivíduos do sexo masculino, média de idade de 36,7 anos (Dp±11,5). A droga mais consumida foi o álcool (92,0 %) por cerca de 19,4 anos (Dp±11.08), seguido do tabaco (70,95%) em média por 18,0 anos (Dp±11,66), maconha (65,2%) por 13,7 anos (Dp±8,22), cocaína (53,3%) por 8,5 anos (Dp±6,00) e crack (50,0%) por 11,1 anos (Dp±7,18). Conclui-se que a prevalência da doença de cárie foi 97,3% e da doença periodontal 51,5%. A população estudada apresentou alta prevalência de cárie dentária e doença periodontal e houve correlação entre o tempo de uso do álcool e tabaco com a doença periodontal e com maior CPO-D.

Resumen El uso de drogas trae diversos problemas para la salud bucal, aumentando la prevalencia de las enfermedades de caries y periodontales, representando un serio problema de salud pública. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la prevalencia de las enfermedades periodontales y caries en usuarios de drogas institucionalizadas. Estudio epidemiológico, transversal, censitario y analítico realizado con usuarios de drogas institucionalizadas en el período de agosto de 2016 a junio de 2017. Los examinadores estandarizados aplicaron formulario para recolección de datos sociodemográficos y consumo de drogas. Las caries dentales fueron evaluadas a través del índice CPO-D y la enfermedad periodontal a través de los indicadores clínicos: sangrado al sondeo, índice de placa, índice gengival, profundidad de sondeo y nivel de inserción clínica. Se evaluaron 112 individuos del sexo masculino, media de edad de 36,7 años (Dp ± 11,5). La droga más consumida fue el alcohol (92,0%) por cerca de 19,4 años (Dp ± 11.08), seguido del tabaco (70,95%) en promedio por 18,0 años (Dp ± 11,66), (65,2%) por 13,7 años (Dp ± 8,22), cocaína (53,3%) por 8,5 años (Dp ± 6,00) y crack (50,0%) por 11, 1 años (Dp ± 7,18). La prevalencia de la enfermedad caries fue del 97,3% y de la enfermedad periodontal 51,5%. Se concluye que la población estudiada presentó alta prevalencia de caries y enfermedad periodontal y existió correlación entre el tiempo de uso del alcohol y tabaco con la enfermedad periodontal y con mayor CPO-D.

Abstract Drug use causes several health hazards to oral health, increasing the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases, representing a serious public health problem. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of dental and periodontal caries in institutionalized drug users. It is an epidemiological, cross-sectional, census-based, analytical study with institutionalized drug users, carried out from August 2016 to June 2017. Standardized examiners applied a form to collect sociodemographic data and on drug consumption. Dental caries were evaluated through the DMFT index and periodontal disease through clinical indicators: bleeding at probing, plaque index, gingival index, probing depth and level of clinical insertion. A total of 112 males, mean age 36.7 years (Dp ± 11.5) were evaluated. The most commonly used drug was alcohol (92.0%) for about 19.4 years (Dp ± 11.08), followed by tobacco (70.95%) on average for 18.0 years (Dp ± 11.66), marijuana (65.2%) for 13.7 years (Dp ± 8.22), cocaine (53.3%) for 8.5 years (Dp ± 6.00) and crack (50.0%) for 11.1 year (Dp ± 7.18). It is concluded that the prevalence of caries was 97.3% and of periodontal disease 51.5%. The studied population presented high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease and there was a correlation between alcohol and tobacco use time with periodontal disease and with higher DMFT.

Geometric morphometrics and face shape characteristics associated with chronic disease in the elderly / Morfometria geométrica e características da forma da face associados à doença crônica em idosos

The aging process is something that occurs naturally during the lifetime of the human being. It causes biological, psychological and social changes in the body. Anthropometry, which until the late nineteenth century was a common tool in clinical and taxonomic practices, has gained great importance as a public health measure. This methodology is also important in the evaluation of morbidities in individuals and their social practices. Thus, the objective of the present study was to evaluate facial shape characteristics in the elderly, associated with chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, based on two-dimensional images of the lateral and frontal views of the face. Analysis of discriminant function and cross validation presented significant differences (p<0.01), for sexual dimorphism in both views and the presence and/or absence of diabetes and hypertension (p<0.01). For the male sex, the highest classifications were related to the complete lateral and frontal views, in 75.2% and 81.2% of cases, respectively. In terms of the female sex, they referred to the frontal view without the orolabial region or jaw (71.4%). There was variation in the facial bilateral symmetry in the elderly, with the presence of fluctuating and directional asymmetry (p<0.01). Despite morphological variations associated with aging, it is possible to use geometric morphometrics techniques to observe characteristics in facial shape related to the presence of diabetes, hypertension, and the presence or absence of both diseases.

O processo de envelhecimento é algo que ocorre naturalmente durante a vida do ser humano. Isso causa mudanças biológicas, psicológicas e sociais no corpo. A antropometria, que até o final do século XIX foi uma ferramenta comum em práticas clínicas e taxonômicas, e ganhou uma grande importância como medidas de saúde pública. Esta metodologia também é importante na avaliação de morbidades nos indivíduos e suas práticas sociais. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar características da forma facial em idosos, associados a doenças crônicas como diabetes e hipertensão, com base em imagens bidimensionais das vistas lateral e frontal do rosto. A análise da função discriminante e da validação cruzada apresentou diferenças significativas (p <0,01), para o dimorfismo sexual em ambos os pontos de vista e a presença e/ou ausência de diabetes e hipertensão (p <0,01). Para o sexo masculino, as classificações mais elevadas foram relacionadas às vistas laterais e frontais completas, em 75,2% e 81,2% dos casos, respectivamente. Para o sexo feminino, os resultados para a vista visão frontal sem a região orelabial ou maxilar foi de 71,4%. Houve variação na simetria facial bilateral dos idosos, com presença de assimetria flutuante e direcional (p <0,01). Apesar das variações morfológicas associadas ao envelhecimento, através de técnicas de morfometria geométrica é possível observar uma característica na forma facial em relação à diabetes, hipertensão e presença ou ausência de ambas as doenças.

Morphogenetic Alterations in Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides (Hymenoptera: Apidae) Associated with Pesticides.

Bees are major pollinators of both native flora and cultured crops. Nonetheless, despite their key functional role in ecosystems and agriculture, bee populations have been affected worldwide by deforestation and contamination by insecticides. Conversely, little is known about the effects of pesticides on morphogenetic development of neotropical stingless bees. We compared the fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in newly emerged bees and foragers of Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides exposed to pesticides (experimental greenhouse and cultivated field). In addition, visitation behavior of foragers was inferred from pollen analyses and direct observation. A significant increase of FA (P < 0.001) was detected in bees from the greenhouse. Even though pesticides might affect their development, foragers seem to avoid contaminated plants whenever possible, as confirmed by pollen and visitation analyses. Consequently, the conservation of natural forests in agricultural landscapes is essential to ensure the health of colonies in stingless bees.

New species of tree cricket Oecanthus Serville, 1831 (Orthoptera: Gryllidae: Oecanthinae) from Reserva Natural Vale, Espírito Santo, Brazil, with chromosome complement.

A new species of the genus Oecanthus Serville, 1831 from Reserva Natural Vale, state of Espírito Santo, Brazil is described. The new species differs from other of this genus in characteristics of the pseudepiphallus main lobe, endophallic sclerites, posterior median lobe of the metanotal gland and black spots on the femora and tibiae. The chromosome number is 2n=16+XY♂=18 and 2n=16+XX♀=18, and this complement present one pair of autosomes less than the other five cytological studied species.

Is Nematocharax (Actinopterygii, Characiformes) a monotypic fish genus?

The combination of DNA barcodes and geometric morphometrics is useful to discriminate taxonomically controversial species, providing more precise estimates of biodiversity. Therefore, our goal was to assess the genetic and morphometric diversity in Nematocharax, a controversial monotypic and sexually dimorphic genus of Neotropical fish, based on sequencing of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and morphometric analyses in seven populations of N. venustus from coastal rivers in Brazil. The average pairwise intrapopulation divergence in COI ranged from 0 to 2.2%, while the average pairwise interpopulation divergence varied from 0 to 7.5%. The neighbour-joining (NJ) tree resulted in five genetic groups (bootstrap ≥ 97%), which correspond to the five clusters delimited by the BIN System, GMYC, and bPTP, indicating that there might be at least five species (or OTUs) within Nematocharax. Morphometric differences among these genetic lineages were also identified. Apparently, sexual selection, restricted dispersal, and geographic isolation might have acted synergistically to cause the evolutionary split of populations. These data challenge the current view that Nematocharax is a monotypic genus inasmuch as evolutionarily significant units or even distinguished species were identified. Therefore, we recommend that the highly impacted coastal basins in northeastern Brazil should be prioritized in conservation plans.

Fluctuating asymmetry in Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera: Apidae) as bioindicator of anthropogenic environments.

The successful distribution of A. mellifera is due to their ability to adjust to seasonal variations, considerable control over their internal physical environment and exploration of different resources. However, their populations have experienced different forms and levels of environmental pressure. This research aimed to verify the phenotypic plasticity in both size and shape of wings in A. mellifera using fluctuating asymmetry, based on geometric morphometrics from apiaries located in sites with high and low levels of anthropization. We sampled 16 locations throughout all five geographic regions of Brazil. At each site, samples were collected from 20 beehives installed in apiaries: 10 installed near high anthropogenic environments (Cassilandia - MS, Fortaleza - CE, Maringá - PR, Aquidauana - MS, Rolim de Moura - RO, Riachuelo - SE, Ubiratã - PR and Piracicaba - SP), and 10 in sites with low levels of human disturbance (Cassilândia - MS, Itapiúna CE, União da Vitória - PR, Aquidauana - MS, Rolim de Moura - RO, Pacatuba - SE, Erval Seco - RS, Rio Claro - SP). A sample of 10 individuals was taken in each hive, totaling 200 per location, for a total of 1,600 individuals. We used fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in size and shape of the forewing through geometric morphometrics. The FA analysis was conducted in order to check bilateral differences. The indexes of size and shape were submitted to analysis of variance (ANOVA), where the characters evaluated were used as factors to verify the size and shape differences. The results indicated an asymmetry on the shape of the wing (P < 0.001) but no asymmetry was observed on wing size. Considering FA as an environmental response and high and low impacted areas as a fixed factor, we observed significant differences (P < 0.05). The results for the wing shape in A. mellifera demonstrated that this feature undergoes more variation during ontogeny compared to the variation in size. We concluded that bee samples collected from colonies with higher levels of human disturbance had higher wing-shape asymmetry; the variation of fluctuating asymmetry in the wing shape of honeybees can be used as an indicator of the degree of environmental anthropization.

Fluctuating asymmetry in Apis mellifera(Hymenoptera: Apidae) as bioindicator of anthropogenic environments / Asimetría fluctuante en Apis mellifera (Hymenop-tera: Apidae) como bioindicador de ambientes antropo-génicos

The successful distribution of A. melliferais due to their ability to adjust to seasonal variations, considerable control over their internal physical environment and exploration of different resources. However, their populations have experienced different forms and levels of environmental pressure. This research aimed to verify the phenotypic plasticity in both size and shape of wings in A. melliferausing fluctuating asymmetry, based on geometric morphometrics from apiaries located in sites with high and low levels of anthropization. We sampled 16 locations throughout all five geographic regions of Brazil. At each site, samples were collected from 20 beehives installed in apiaries: 10 installed near high anthropogenic environments (Cassilàndia - MS, Fortaleza - CE, Maringá - PR, Aquidauana - MS, Rolim de Moura - RO, Riachuelo - SE, Ubirata - PR and Piracicaba - SP), and 10 in sites with low levels of human disturbance (Cassilàndia - MS, Itapiúna CE, Uniao da Vitoria - PR, Aquidauana - MS, Rolim de Moura - RO, Pacatuba - SE, Erval Seco - RS, Rio Claro - SP). A sample of 10 individuals was taken in each hive, totaling 200 per location, for a total of 1 600 individuals. We used fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in size and shape of the forewing through geometric morphometrics. The FA analysis was conducted in order to check bilateral differences. The indexes of size and shape were submitted to analysis of variance (ANOVA), where the characters evaluated were used as factors to verify the size and shape differences. The results indicated an asymmetry on the shape of the wing (P < 0.001) but no asymmetry was observed on wing size. Considering FA as an environmental response and high and low impacted areas as a fixed factor, we observed significant differences (P < 0.05). The results for the wing shape in A. melliferademonstrated that this feature undergoes more variation during ontogeny compared to the variation in size. We concluded that bee samples collected from colonies with higher levels of human disturbance had higher wing-shape asymmetry; the variation of fluctuating asymmetry in the wing shape of honeybees can be used as an indicator of the degree of environmental anthropization.

La distribución exitosa de A. melliferase debe a su capacidad para adaptarse a las variaciones estacionales, controlar considerablemente su ambiente físico interno y por la exploración de recursos. Sin embargo, sus poblaciones experimentan diferentes formas y niveles de presión ambiental. Esta investigación evaluó colmenares, ubicadas en entornos con distintos niveles de antropización. Ambientes considerados altamente antropogénicos fueron escogidos: áreas urbanas, agrícolas con aplicaciones de insecticidas, y las industrias con grandes áreas (regiones con altos índices de contaminación). Por otra parte, los entornos considerados con bajos niveles de perturbación humana fueron elegidos: áreas de preservación permanente de los bosques restantes (Mata Atlántica, Planalto, Cerrado), áreas ribereñas o reservas ecológicas. Se muestrearon 16 localidades que abarcan las cinco regiones del Brasil. Estamos utilizando la asimetría fluctuante desde el tamaño y la forma del ala anterior por técnicas de morfometría geométrica. En cada sitio, las muestras se obtuvieron de las 20 colmenas instaladas en los colmenares: 10 instalados cerca de entornos altamente antropogénicos (Cassilándia - MS, Fortaleza - CE, Maringá - PR, Aquidauana - MS, Rolim de Moura - RO, Riachuelo - SE, Ubirata - PR y Piracicaba - SP) y 10 en sitios de bajo nivel de perturbación humana (Cassilándia - MS, ItapiúnaCE, Uniao da Vitória - PR, Aquidauana - MS, Rolim de Moura - RO, Pacatuba- SE, Erval Seco - RS, Rio Claro - SP). Los índices de tamaño y forma fueron sometidos a análisis de varianza (ANOVA), donde se utilizaron los caracteres evaluados como factores, para verificar las diferencias de tamaño y forma. La asimetría de análisis fluctuante (AF) se llevó a cabo con el fin de comprobar las diferencias bilaterales. Los resultados indican la existencia de la asimetría de la forma del ala (P < 0.001), pero no se observó asimetría del tamaño del ala. Considerando AF como respuesta ambiental y áreas de alto y bajo grado de alteración humana como factor fijo, observamos diferencias significativas (P < 0.05). Los resultados, para la forma de ala de la A. mellifera,muestran que esta característica se somete a más variación durante la ontogenia en comparación con la variación en el tamaño. Llegamos a la conclusión de que las colonias de abejas recogidas en ambientes con niveles más altos de la perturbación humana tienen una mayor asimetría en forma de ala, por lo que la asimetría fluctuante en forma de alas de las abejas puede ser utilizada como un indicador del grado de antropización del medio ambiente.

Divergência genética em Melipona scutellaris Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae) com base em caracteres morfológicos / Genetic divergence in Melipona scutellaris Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae) on the basis of morphologic characters

A Melipona scutellaris (Uruçu) é uma espécie endêmica do Nordeste brasileiro, sendo importante não só para a produção de mel e pólen, mas também para a polinização de Fanerógamas. Foram utilizadas técnicas de análise multivariada para comparar populações de M. scutellaris de 8 regiões da Bahia. Foram avaliadas as seguintes características das asas: comprimento e largura das asas anterior e posterior, comprimento da nervura radial, medial e cubital das asas anterior e posterior, comprimento da nervura medial + cubital, da nervura radio sectar + medial – 1º , da nervura radio sectar + medial – 2º , comprimento da nervura anal e comprimento da nervura medial-cubital das asas anteriores e comprimento da nervura radial sectar da asa posterior. Foram necessárias as três primeiras variáveis canônicas para acumular 85% da variação. A análise de agrupamento realizado utilizando distância D2 de Mahalanobis levou a formação de três grupos distintos conforme a altitude, um formado por colônias a 1100m de altitude, um segundo grupo formado por colônias que estão entre 0 e 560m e o terceiro grupo formado por colônias que estão localizadas entre 600 e 964m de altitude. Indicando que provavelmente, as conformações geográficas existentes nestas regiões estejam impedindo que ocorra o fluxo gênico entre essas populações.

The Melipona scutellaris (Uruçu) is a Brazilian northeast endemic bee species, it is important not alone for the production of honey and pollen, but also for the polinization of Fanerógamas. Techniques of multivaried analysis had been used to compare colonies of M. scutellaris from 8 differents regions of the Bahia state, Brazil. The evaluated characteristics had been: length and width of the forewings and posterior wing, length of the radial, medial and cubital venation of the forewings and posterior wings; length of the medial + cubital venation, length of radio sectar + medial - 1º venation, length of the radio sectar + medial - 2º venation, length of the forewings anal venation, length of the medial-cubital venation, all of them in the forewings; and length of the radial sectar venation of the posterior wing. The first three canonic variable had been necessary to accumulate 85% of the variation. The grouping analysis using the Mahalanobis D2 distance shows formation of three distinct groups according to altitude. The first was formed by colonies at 1.100m of altitude, the second was formed by colonies at 0 and 560m of altitude, and the third group was formed by colonies at 600 and 964m of altitude. This results suggest tha the altitude in these regions are hindering the genic flow between these populations.

Inventário da fauna de abelhas (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) em uma área de caatinga da região de Jequié, BA / Inventor of bee fauna (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) in a semi-arid área in region of Jequié, Bahia State

O estudo foi realizado no município de Jequié (13º 52’ 33’’ S; 40º 13’ 13’’ W; Altitude: 233m) localizado na região sudeste da Bahia. Para a captura dos indivíduos utilizou-se o método de varredura das plantas floridas ao longo da área analisada, as coletas foram realizadas no período entre maio de 2002 a maio de 2004. A fauna de abelhas foi composta por 49 espécies, representadas por 25 gêneros, distribuídas em cinco famílias. A família Apidae foi a melhor representada, com 36 espécies (74%), Halictidae, seis (12%), Megachilidae, cinco (10%) e as menos representadas foram Andrenidae e Coletidae, cada uma com 1 espécie (2% cada). Esse inventário forneceu subsídios para possíveis programasde conservação e manejo de espécies de abelhas, e que poderão ser utilizadas também em programas de manejosustentável e técnicas de polinização, utilizando os recursos apícolas naturais existentes.

The present study was carried out in the city of Jequié (13º 52’ 33’’ S; 40º 13’ 13’’ W; 233m high) located on southeastern state of Bahia, The individuals were collected through sweeping net method on floweredplants within the analyzed area from May 2002 to May 2004. The bee fauna was composed of 49 species, represented by 25 genus, distributed into five families. The family Apidae was the most representative one, with 36 species (74%), followed by Halictidae, with six species (12%), and Megachilidae, with five species (10%). The less representative families were Andrenidae and Coletidae, each one with one specie (2% each). This inventory contributed tools for further conservation and management programs of bee species, whether threatened or not, which can be used in management and polinization programs, using the currently available honey bee resources.